Kelly Jackson, Ammie Derricot, and the Around The Table team
Downtown Ashland Association is proud to share that Around The Table, a beloved soul food restaurant, catering business, and community gathering space in Ashland, Virginia, has been nominated for the Rising Community Impact Award at the 2025 BLK RVA Community Awards. The award, presented by Wells Fargo, recognizes emerging Black-owned businesses and initiatives that bring fresh, authentic experiences to the region—and Around The Table does just that from the heart of the Center of the Universe.
Kelly Jackson and Ammie Derricot at their restaurant Around The Table
Led by effervescent owner Ammie Derricot, Around The Table serves more than food—it serves connection. Built on the belief that “everyone has a seat at Ammie’s table,” the business offers a welcoming space for family, friendship, and celebration. Whether guests stop by for a comforting meal, book a private event, or join a Gospel Sing-Along on the fourth Sunday of the month, they experience the warmth and community spirit that defines this Ashland gem.
After 27 years in the culinary field, Ammie launched Ammie’s Catering in 2016 with the hope of one day opening a restaurant. In 2021, she and her cousin Kelly Jackson brought that dream to life with Around The Table. The two combined Ammie’s culinary talent and Kelly’s business savvy to create a place that feels like home for locals and visitors alike.
Their work has not gone unnoticed. In addition to being nominated for the 2025 BLK RVA Rising Community Impact Award, Around The Table has been featured internationally on YouTube’s The Brits Try and in The Parisian Sunday, highlighting their growing culinary influence well beyond Ashland’s borders.
Support Our Neighbor
Voting for the Rooted and Rising Community Impact Awards is open now through July 25, 2025, and Around The Table needs our daily support to advance to the final round. Let’s show the region what Ashland is made of by voting each day and sharing the link with friends and family:
The top three finalists will be announced on August 4, and winners will be celebrated at the BLK RVA Community Awards Ceremony.
Celebrate In Person
Ashland neighbors are invited to attend the awards ceremony on Friday, August 22, 2025, at Richmond’s historic Hippodrome Theater. This exciting evening includes a reception with heavy hors d'oeuvres and networking, followed by the awards program honoring those who embody the BLK RVA mission.
Date: Friday, August 22, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM Reception | 7:00 PM Awards Program
Location: The Hippodrome Theater, 528 N 2nd St, Richmond, VA
Attire: Cocktail attire (sneakers welcome)
Parking: Complimentary with code HOTS at select Parkway Parking lots
Early Bird Tickets (through July 31): $69
General Admission (starting August 1): $89
Get your tickets here.
Let’s show up for Around The Table the way they consistently show up for the community—by voting daily and cheering them on from the audience as they represent Ashland with heart, hospitality, and homegrown pride.
Community showing up at Around The Table’s expansion