America’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its people, with a rich tapestry of flavors, traditions, and innovations that span the globe. Among the many voices in this vibrant food scene are Black-owned restaurants, where history, culture, and passion come together on every plate. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a supporter of small businesses, or simply looking to expand your palate, visiting these restaurants is a journey worth taking. Here’s a delectable tour of 50 must-visit Black-owned restaurants across the United States.
1. Red Rooster Harlem – New York, NY
Chef Marcus Samuelsson’s Red Rooster in Harlem is not just a restaurant but a cultural institution. Known for its soulful dishes like fried yardbird and mac ‘n’ greens, Red Rooster also hosts live music, making it a vibrant spot to experience Harlem’s cultural renaissance.
2. Sylvia's – New York, NY
A Harlem landmark since 1962, Sylvia’s is synonymous with soul food. Founded by the legendary Sylvia Woods, this restaurant serves up classic dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread, all with a side of Southern hospitality.
3. Dooky Chase's Restaurant – New Orleans, LA
Dooky Chase’s is more than just a place to eat; it’s a piece of history. Founded by Leah Chase, the restaurant became a hub for civil rights leaders in the 1960s. Today, it continues to serve Creole classics like gumbo and shrimp Creole in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
4. Mémé's Twisted Potato – Dallas, TX
A true innovator in the world of comfort food, Mémé’s Twisted Potato offers a unique twist on traditional dishes with loaded potatoes and decadent toppings. This Dallas gem is a must-visit for anyone seeking creative and satisfying meals.
5. The Grey – Savannah, GA
Housed in a restored Greyhound bus terminal, The Grey is where Chef Mashama Bailey reimagines Southern cuisine with modern flair. The elegant setting, combined with dishes like smoked collards and foie gras torchon, makes dining here an unforgettable experience.
6. Ben’s Chili Bowl – Washington, D.C.
An iconic eatery in the nation’s capital, Ben’s Chili Bowl has been serving up its famous half-smokes and chili since 1958. A favorite of locals and tourists alike, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring D.C.’s rich culinary scene.
7. Negril Village – Atlanta, GA
Negril Village brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean to Atlanta. Specializing in Jamaican cuisine, this restaurant offers dishes like jerk chicken and curry goat, all in a lively setting that feels like a tropical escape.
8. Souley Vegan – Oakland, CA
Souley Vegan is a testament to how delicious plant-based soul food can be. With a menu full of vegan versions of classic dishes like BBQ tofu and collard greens, this Oakland eatery proves that soul food can be both healthy and satisfying.
9. Kith/Kin – Washington, D.C.
Chef Kwame Onwuachi’s Kith/Kin is a celebration of Afro-Caribbean cuisine with a modern twist. Located on the waterfront, the restaurant offers dishes like jerk lamb and suya short ribs, blending bold flavors with impeccable presentation.
10. Slutty Vegan – Atlanta, GA
Slutty Vegan has taken Atlanta by storm with its indulgent, plant-based burgers. Known for its bold branding and even bolder flavors, this restaurant offers a deliciously irreverent take on vegan cuisine that appeals to carnivores and vegans alike.
11. Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles – Los Angeles, CA
A Southern California staple, Roscoe’s is famous for its unlikely yet perfect pairing of fried chicken and waffles. This iconic eatery has been serving up soul food with a twist since the 1970s, attracting a loyal following of locals and celebrities.
12. Nana's Chicken-N-Waffles – Conyers, GA
For those seeking the ultimate comfort food experience, Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles delivers. This family-owned restaurant is known for its hearty portions of Southern favorites, including their signature chicken and waffles that are sure to satisfy any appetite.
13. Busy Bee Café – Atlanta, GA
Since 1947, Busy Bee Café has been a fixture in Atlanta, serving up some of the best fried chicken in the South. With its rich history and down-home atmosphere, this restaurant offers a taste of tradition with every bite.
14. Little Africa Cuisine – Grand Rapids, MI
Little Africa Cuisine brings the bold, aromatic flavors of East Africa to Michigan. Specializing in Ethiopian and Somali dishes, this restaurant offers a menu full of spiced stews, injera, and vegetarian options that transport diners to the Horn of Africa.
15. The Breakfast Klub – Houston, TX
Known for its mouthwatering wings and waffles, The Breakfast Klub has become a beloved institution in Houston. This lively spot is always buzzing with energy, making it the perfect place to start your day with a hearty Southern breakfast.
16. Mizumi Hibachi & Sushi – Detroit, MI
Mizumi combines the flavors of Japan with a Black-owned twist, offering a unique dining experience in Detroit. The hibachi chefs entertain while preparing dishes like steak, shrimp, and fried rice, ensuring a fun and flavorful meal.
17. Vegan Mob – Oakland, CA
Vegan Mob is redefining BBQ in Oakland with its plant-based approach. This restaurant offers vegan versions of classic BBQ dishes, from ribs to mac ‘n’ cheese, proving that you don’t need meat to enjoy the smoky, savory flavors of barbecue.
18. Peaches – Brooklyn, NY
Peaches in Brooklyn’s Bed-Stuy neighborhood is a beacon of Southern hospitality in the heart of the city. With a menu featuring dishes like shrimp and grits and catfish sandwiches, this restaurant offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that feels like home.
19. Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop – Metairie, LA
Just outside New Orleans, Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop serves up some of the best gumbo in the region. With a commitment to traditional Creole cooking, this restaurant offers a true taste of Louisiana, with rich, flavorful dishes that keep locals coming back.
20. Two Fish Crab Shack – Chicago, IL
Two Fish Crab Shack in Chicago is a seafood lover’s dream. Known for its seafood boils, where diners can mix and match their favorite shellfish, this Black-owned spot offers a fun, hands-on dining experience with bold, buttery flavors.
21. Joe's Bakery – Austin, TX
Joe’s Bakery has been a cornerstone of East Austin since 1962, serving up a unique blend of Mexican and Southern cuisine. Known for its breakfast tacos and pan dulce, this family-run bakery is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.
22. G's Chicken Shack – Philadelphia, PA
G’s Chicken Shack brings the heat to Philadelphia with its spicy fried chicken sandwiches. This small but mighty eatery is known for its crispy, flavorful chicken and friendly service, making it a must-visit for anyone craving comfort food with a kick.
23. Lena’s Soul Food Café – Oakland, CA
Lena’s Soul Food Café offers a taste of Southern comfort in the heart of Oakland. With dishes like smothered pork chops and oxtails, this restaurant has built a loyal following of diners who crave home-cooked meals in a welcoming environment.
24. Harlem Hops – New York, NY
Harlem Hops is not just a place to grab a drink; it’s a celebration of Black-owned craft beer. This cozy Harlem bar features an ever-changing selection of beers from Black brewers, offering a unique way to support local businesses while enjoying a cold one.
25. Hen Quarter – Alexandria, VA
Hen Quarter offers a modern take on Southern comfort food in a stylish setting. With dishes like buttermilk fried chicken and pimento cheese, this Alexandria restaurant combines tradition with innovation, making it a favorite for brunch and dinner alike.
26. Boon Boona Coffee – Renton, WA
Boon Boona Coffee brings the rich flavors of East African coffee to the Pacific Northwest. Specializing in traditional brewing methods and ethically sourced beans, this coffee shop offers a unique and authentic coffee experience that celebrates African culture.
27. Tassili's Raw Reality Café – Atlanta, GA
Tassili’s Raw Reality Café offers a unique twist on Southern cuisine with its focus on raw, vegan dishes. Known for its massive kale wraps and fresh juices, this Atlanta eatery is a must-visit for health-conscious diners seeking flavorful, nutritious meals.
28. Queen of Sheba – Sacramento, CA
Queen of Sheba brings the exotic flavors of Ethiopia to Sacramento with its traditional dishes and warm, inviting atmosphere. From spicy lentil stews to injera, this restaurant offers a true taste of Ethiopian culture in every bite.
29. Brown Sugar Kitchen – Oakland, CA
Chef Tanya Holland’s Brown Sugar Kitchen is a shining star in Oakland’s culinary scene. Known for its buttermilk fried chicken and cornmeal waffles, this restaurant offers a fresh take on soul food with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
30. Simply Wholesome – Los Angeles, CA
Simply Wholesome is a health-conscious haven in Los Angeles, offering a menu full of nutritious, flavorful dishes. From jerk chicken wraps to smoothies, this restaurant and health food store is a one-stop-shop for delicious, wholesome meals.
31. Café Rue Dix – Brooklyn, NY
Café Rue Dix offers a unique fusion of French and Senegalese cuisine in the heart of Brooklyn. With dishes like chicken Yassa and croque monsieur, this cozy café provides a delightful dining experience that blends the best of both worlds.
32. Uncle Willie’s BBQ – Oakland, CA
Uncle Willie’s BBQ is a beloved institution in Oakland, known for its smoky, tender barbecue. Whether you’re in the mood for ribs, brisket, or pulled pork, this Black-owned BBQ joint delivers big flavors with a side of Southern hospitality.
33. Elijah's Xtreme – Houston, TX
Elijah’s Xtreme in Houston is known for its fiery hot sauces that add a kick to any dish. This family-owned business offers a range of products, from sauces to spices, that bring the heat and flavor to your kitchen.
34. Sweet Science – Brooklyn, NY
Sweet Science in Brooklyn’s Bushwick neighborhood is where Southern comfort meets industrial chic. With a menu featuring dishes like fried chicken and bourbon-glazed pork belly, this restaurant offers a modern take on Southern favorites in a stylish setting.
35. Detroit Vegan Soul – Detroit, MI
Detroit Vegan Soul proves that soul food can be both delicious and healthy. With a menu full of plant-based versions of classic dishes like catfish and mac ‘n’ cheese, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy soul food without the guilt.
36. Honey’s Kettle Fried Chicken – Culver City, CA
Honey’s Kettle Fried Chicken is a Culver City gem known for its crispy, golden fried chicken. Made with a secret recipe that’s been passed down for generations, this restaurant offers a taste of tradition with every bite.
37. Phat Eatery – Katy, TX
Phat Eatery brings the bold, vibrant flavors of Malaysia to Texas. Specializing in Malaysian street food, this Black-owned restaurant offers dishes like satay and nasi lemak, all served in a lively, colorful setting that transports diners to Southeast Asia.
38. Sweet Potatoes – Winston-Salem, NC
Sweet Potatoes is a cozy spot in Winston-Salem offering Southern dishes with a twist. From sweet potato pancakes to catfish po’boys, this restaurant delivers comfort food with a creative edge that keeps diners coming back for more.
39. Rodney Scott’s BBQ – Charleston, SC
Rodney Scott’s BBQ in Charleston is all about whole-hog barbecue. With a focus on slow-cooked, smoky flavors, this Black-owned BBQ joint offers a true taste of the South, with dishes like pulled pork and ribs that are cooked to perfection.
40. Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ – Orlando, FL
Located in Disney Springs, Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ is a celebration of Southern cuisine. Known for its fried chicken and moonshine cocktails, this restaurant offers a taste of Florida’s farm-to-table bounty in a fun, family-friendly setting.
41. Le Petit Marché – Atlanta, GA
Le Petit Marché in Atlanta’s Kirkwood neighborhood is a charming café offering French-inspired dishes with a Southern twist. From shrimp and grits to croque madame, this Black-owned eatery is the perfect spot for a leisurely brunch or lunch.
42. La Fête du Rose – Miami, FL
La Fête du Rose in Miami brings a touch of elegance to the city’s dining scene. This Black-owned restaurant offers a chic, upscale experience with a menu that features gourmet dishes and an extensive wine list, perfect for special occasions.
43. Ike’s Love & Sandwiches – San Francisco, CA
Ike’s Love & Sandwiches has become a Bay Area favorite for its creative, over-the-top sandwiches. With a cult following and a menu full of unique combinations, this Black-owned sandwich shop is a must-visit for anyone in search of a satisfying, indulgent meal.
44. Fennel & Iris – Chicago, IL
Fennel & Iris in Chicago offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. This Black-owned restaurant’s menu changes regularly, ensuring that each visit is a new culinary adventure.
45. Café Bon Ami – New Orleans, LA
Café Bon Ami in New Orleans is a cozy spot known for its rich, flavorful coffee and delicious pastries. This Black-owned café offers a welcoming atmosphere where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a perfect cup of coffee and a sweet treat.
46. Hibiscus Island Grille – Columbus, OH
Hibiscus Island Grille brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean to Ohio. Specializing in Jamaican cuisine, this Black-owned restaurant offers dishes like jerk chicken and oxtail, all served in a warm, tropical-inspired setting.
47. The Four Way – Memphis, TN
The Four Way is a historic soul food restaurant in Memphis that has been serving the community since 1946. Known for its fried catfish and turnip greens, this Black-owned eatery is a true taste of the South, steeped in history and tradition.
48. The Fish Pot – Stone Mountain, GA
The Fish Pot in Stone Mountain offers a taste of the sea with its fresh, flavorful seafood dishes. This Black-owned restaurant is known for its fish fry, where diners can enjoy crispy, golden seafood in a laid-back, family-friendly setting.
49. Hotville Chicken – Los Angeles, CA
Hotville Chicken brings Nashville hot chicken to Los Angeles with a fiery flair. Founded by Kim Prince, a member of the family behind Nashville’s iconic Prince’s Hot Chicken, this Black-owned restaurant delivers spicy, flavorful chicken that packs a punch.
50. Sol Sips – Brooklyn, NY
Sol Sips is a plant-based café in Brooklyn that offers a menu full of healthy, flavorful dishes. From vegan brunch plates to fresh smoothies, this Black-owned eatery is a go-to spot for anyone seeking nutritious, delicious food in a welcoming environment.
Conclusion
These 50 Black-owned restaurants are more than just places to eat; they are community pillars, cultural touchstones, and creative powerhouses that enrich America’s culinary landscape. Each one offers a unique dining experience that reflects the rich diversity and innovation of Black chefs, entrepreneurs, and communities. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, make it a point to visit these incredible eateries and savor the flavors, history, and culture they bring to the table. Your taste buds—and your soul—will thank you!