Atwater’s to be revitalized by grandson of the original owners, local artist Two

Atwaters has served south St. Pete for decades. Local artist Two, who has earned acclaim in the southeast for his music, is now setting his sights and talents on revitalizing the dormant culinary gem. Many will remember that Eric Atwater had spent a majority of his time during the pandemic providing free breakfast/lunch for children in his surrounding community.

Two took to Instagram to announce his intentions with the space: “In this life time I’ve watched a lot of things fade away. Most of them were out of my control. But while I’m still here with air in my lungs and more life to live I refuse to let my grandparents’ dream die. They worked so hard to keep this place open and thriving and now it’s just an empty shell,” wrote Two on January 6.

Two continues, “BLACK OWNERSHIP is rare in our community and I can’t let this building go. Most of my family members are too sick or elderly and they aren’t able to help with much. So I’m taking the matters in my own hands and reaching out to the community, the family, the friends, and fans. I’m planning on a date to go inside, clean everything out, and start from scratch.”

The cleanup and renovation days at Atwater’s, located at 895 22nd Avenue South, are January 21 and 22 from 10am-7pm. Those interested in volunteering should bring clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, closed toe shoes, gloves, and masks.

If you’d like to donate to assist with the updates, then you can Venmo @sevawwaves, and the CashApp $onlyonetwo. His PayPal QR code is also below:

Eric Atwater became synonymous with the restaurant over the years. His parents purchased the south St. Pete building in the 1970s. According to a report by Creative Loafing, “by the time he was in kindergarten, he knew he wanted to be a chef and business owner just like his parents Elzo “Deac” Atwater Sr., who died in 2005 and Mattie Atwater who passed two years later.”

It was announced back in 2021 that they would seek a new tenant for the space. Follow Two on Instagram for updates on renovations, and how you can support the cause.