gladys knight chicken and waffles atlanta closed

Gladys Knight's Chicken and Waffles Atlanta Locations Closed Amid IRS Raid

The iconic Gladys Knight's Chicken and Waffles restaurants in Atlanta have been shut down by authorities amid allegations of financial mismanagement and tax evasion. According to reports, a chain of three locations owned by singer Gladys Knight's son, Shanga Hankerson, was raided by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on Tuesday.

The restaurant, located across from the Fox Theatre, has been a beloved institution in Atlanta for years, serving up classic comfort food like chicken and waffles to hungry patrons. However, the business has had a history of health violations, including reports of broken toilets and mold-like growth on food products.

Hankerson is currently under investigation for allegedly diverting an estimated $1 million from the business, which he co-owns with his mother's name on the restaurant chain. Knight herself is not involved in the day-to-day operations or ownership of the restaurants, but has allowed her son to use her name on the business.

The Georgia Department of Revenue raided and shut down all three locations of Gladys Knight's Chicken and Waffles on Tuesday afternoon, seizing computers, files, and other business equipment and records. The restaurants may reopen as soon as Thursday under state management.

In response to the allegations, Knight fired back that Hankerson was trying to 'extort' her by damaging her reputation. However, Hankerson has claimed in court filings that his mother lacked the mental capacity to decide to take her name from the restaurant.

The situation is a stark contrast to the restaurant's heyday, when it was a popular spot for Sunday brunch and live music. Despite its history of health violations, the business remained beloved by locals and visitors alike.

For now, fans of Gladys Knight's Chicken and Waffles will have to look elsewhere for their favorite comfort food fix. The downtown Atlanta location is currently closed and in disrepair, while the other two locations have shut down as well.

Gladys knight chicken and waffles atlanta closed