Southern Roots

Mama Dip’s Kitchen, the iconic regional restaurant in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, was founded by Mildred “Mama Dip” Council in 1976 with $64 saved up from working as a cook for local white families. Mildred’s children, including her youngest daughter, Anita “Spring” Council, grew up in the restaurant, spending time as dishwashers, waiters and short-order cooks. They continue Mama Dip’s legacy today, with Spring at the helm of the original restaurant, which continues to be a pillar of the local community. In 100 delicious recipes grounded in oral recipe–sharing traditions, Spring brings an updated and thoughtful approach to classic Southern food. Southern Roots provides a window into the vibrant story of an African American community and the powerful legacy of a large, loving and hardworking entrepreneurial family who made many sacrifices to succeed.