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Boston Globe

Since opening in 1928, Slade's has been a haven for the community

Once one of many restaurants and clubs on the South End/Roxbury border, Slade's is among the few Green Book locations still operating. Longtime customers recall the days when skewers of chickens turned around and around in the window, on display as they cooked. On Mother's Day, lines stretched around the corner, and people dressed up to eat at the restaurant on Easter. Advertisement Bill Russell, part owner of Slade's, outside the venue in August 20, 1964. Unknown Photographer Today, regulars include journalists, historians, lawyers, teachers, community activists, fitness instructors, and real estate investors. Most live in the neighborhood, have strong ties to it, or have been coming here forever. Frequent the place long enough and you're likely to spot former state representative Byron Rushing stopping in for takeout, or dance to music from DJ Plush, a.k.a. Jomo King, son of political activist Mel King. Every night has its own flavor and crowd: Wednesdays are for comedy, Fridays bring an after-work social followed by R&B, and so on. Advertisement But Tuesdays are for live jazz. On this particular night,King gets folks out of their seats and onto the dance floor between sets. Then Melvin Francisco takes the stage with his instrument of choice, a comb that he plays like a kazoo. The audience whoops in appreciation. 'The food is really good. The music is really good. The people make the place,' said Ann Luster, a patron for more than 20 years. 'It's my Cheers. Everybody needs a Cheers.' Melvin Francisco, nearing 90, performed a blues tune with WeJazzUp and accompanying Berklee College of Music students at Slade's Bar and Grill in Boston. Erin Clark/Globe Staff Linda Seams, a patron of over 20 years, danced from her chair during jazz night at Slade's Bar and Grill on Jan. 14. Erin Clark/Globe Staff Devra First can be reached at