Lefty's Fried Rice: St. Louis' Trailblazing Black-Owned Chinese Spot Gears Up for a Big 314 Day Celebration
In the heart of St. Louis' Gravois Park neighborhood, at 3000 S. Jefferson Ave (63118), stands a small restaurant that has quietly rewritten a piece of local culinary history. Since its grand opening in 2019, Lefty's Fried Rice—owned and operated by the dynamic husband-and-wife team Chan and Lefty Davis—has proudly held the distinction of being the first 100% Black-owned Chinese restaurant in the state of Missouri and much of the surrounding Midwest. What began as a bold vision has grown into a beloved community staple, serving up generous portions of classic fried rice, boneless hot-braised chicken, crab rangoon, St. Paul sandwiches, and an ever-evolving menu that fuses familiar Chinese-American flavors with a distinct St. Louis soul.
Now, as the city prepares to celebrate 314 Day—St. Louis' unofficial holiday honoring the 314 area code—Lefty's is turning up the energy in a big way.
314 Day 2026 at Lefty's: New Menu Item + DJ Innergy Vibes
Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 14, 2026 (11:00 AM – 10:00 PM).
Lefty's Fried Rice is hosting a full-day celebration featuring:
The debut of the Lefty's St. Paul Slider — a brand-new limited-time menu item that pays homage to St. Louis' iconic St. Paul sandwich in handheld, craveable form.
Live DJ sets by DJ Innergy, bringing high-energy beats to match the restaurant's signature vibe.
The best deals in the city on fried rice combos, wings, sides, and more.
Walk-in, call-in (314-899-0169), and dine-in options all day long.
The team promises the energy will be unmatched: "Pull up and Turn Up with us… The Energy is always a VIBE!"
Whether you're craving a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a late-night bite, Lefty's 314 Day block-party atmosphere is the perfect way to rep the Lou and support a homegrown Black-owned business.
A Respectful Update on London & Son's
In recent community conversations, Lefty's has shared an important update regarding another beloved St. Louis staple—London & Son's, the historic wing house that operated for over 60 years before closing its final location in 2023.
The good news: The London family is actively working on plans to re-launch the brand in the city. They are approaching the process thoughtfully and carefully to protect the legacy and ensure the brand is represented the right way.
The respectful boundary: At this time, the family has asked that no one use the London & Son's name or sell "inspired" versions of their signature plates while they finalize their vision.
Lefty's shared the update with appreciation and excitement: "We are excited!! Thank you all for your support and we look forward to seeing you on 314 Day!"
Why Lefty's Matters in 2026
In an era when representation in hospitality still lags, Lefty's Fried Rice stands as both a delicious destination and a quiet point of pride. Chan and Lefty Davis didn't just open a restaurant—they created a space where Black entrepreneurship meets a cuisine rarely claimed in the same breath.
So this 314 Day, whether you're sliding in for the new St. Paul Slider, dancing to DJ Innergy, or simply craving some of the best fried rice in the Lou, make it a point to stop by 3000 S. Jefferson. Because in St. Louis, 314 isn't just an area code—it's a celebration of the people, flavors, and stories that make the city unforgettable.
Lefty's Fried Rice
3000 S. Jefferson Ave, St. Louis, MO 63118
(314) 899-0169
Walk-in • Call-in • Dine-in
Follow @leftysfriedrice314 on Instagram for menu dr
ops, specials, and 314 Day updates.
See you March 14. Let's eat, vibe, and support local.