In 1991, Cotton’s Place formerly known as “Family Variety & Deli” was established by

the late Terry “Cotton” Scott and his wife, Gail Scott. “Family” which everyone called it, first

started out as a Philadelphia style hoagie shop and slowly incorporated the Philly Steak and other

local food favorites. “Family” was one of few, black owned business in the West Philadelphia

area. The early years were a bit challenging at first, with so much competition from surrounding

neighborhood eateries. Nevertheless, with the support of family, friends, community supporters

and word of mouth, “Family Variety & Deli” became one of the well-known places to eat in the

Philadelphia area.

In December of 2013, the owner Terry "Cotton" Scott, passed away suddenly from heart

complications. The loss of the father and community patriarch still remains a significant loss to

his family, friends, and community. In spite of Mr. Scott’s passing business continued to run

smoothly, and actually started to see an upsurge in customer traffic.

Subsequently in 2014, after much thought the immediate family made the decision to

rename the business “Cotton’s Place” in honor of their beloved Terry Scott. The nickname

“Cotton” was given to Terry Scott, from his early days of playing high school basketball for the

Speed Boys at West Philadelphia High School. To insure his legacy of family and community

ties remained alive, the Scott family could think of no better way to honor Cotton, than by

revamping the business and concluding with the name change. Cotton’s Place.

Today at Cotton’s Place we make every effort to offer freshly prepared food using only

quality ingredients. Our mission is and has always been dedicated to creating an exceptional food

experience for our customers and community supporters.