Durham restaurant The Chicken Hut one of three in NC to win $50K preservation grant

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- The oldest Black-owned restaurant in Durham is on its way to landmark status.

The Chicken Hut, owned by the Tapp family since its founding in 1957 as The Chicken Box, has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation and American Express.

"It's the customer service first," Trey Tapp told ABC11 of the business's enduring success. "Because I always say, you can go anywhere and get food. But if you don't have good customer service, that goes a long way. You want to feel like you're appreciated."

Tapp added that the food quality is also key and that they "cook with love."

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This is the fifth year for the grant program backing historic small businesses, and The Chicken Hut is one of 50 recipients for 2025.

"These restaurants demonstrate the power that places hold. For generations, neighbors have gathered here, shared stories, made new connections, and enjoyed regional cuisine that often reflects our nation's global roots," said Carol Quillen, President and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. "We're grateful and proud to join with American Express to help ensure that these meaningful places thrive and continue to serve as vibrant, welcoming spaces for years to come."

The program aims to spotlight small, family-owned restaurants and fund renovations and expansions.

Two other restaurants in North Carolina, Corner Kitchen in Asheville and Zadie's Market in Marshall, also received grants.