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.