New York City is full of places to eat, but there’s nothing like the fine dining experience in a Black-owned restaurant. Beyond the flavorful cuisines and welcoming ambiance are the stories of business owners who strive to build community within their neighborhoods. Through their mouthwatering brunch menus, special events, and happy hour libations, these hot spots produce a vibe that’ll make you want to return for more.
There are key factors that go into choosing a place to eat. Some people specifically solicit Black-owned places to dine so they can indulge their taste buds with exuberant spices and seasonings. From New Orleans-style Gumbo to savory Rasta Pasta, these restaurants represent a wide range of cultures that speak to your inner foodie.
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Most people are drawn to the ambiance. Instagramable decor, music that passes the vibe check, and drinks so cute they’re used as props for photos instead of a delectable beverage are the winning equation for a great dining experience. Whether you’re headed out for date night or gathering your homegirls for a catch-up session over brunch, a fun and sexy atmosphere can make you feel like you’re on your own personalized episode of Sex and the City. Women never need a reason to get cute and take pictures, and the right restaurant can serve as an alluring backdrop.
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Then we have the people who thrive on community. Black-owned restaurants that open their space to the public to host neighborhood events like poetry nights or art shows become a staple in the area. Bringing people together over good food, music, and togetherness is a bonding love language that unites the neighborhood.
If you’re on the hunt for Black-owned businesses that pass the food, vibe, and community check, here are 6 restaurants to add to your rolodex.
6 Black-Owned NYC Restaurants You Need To Experience
1. SAINT Lounge NYC
SAINT Lounge opened this past April, and the swanky, upscale restaurant definitely passes the vibe check. Located in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen, this establishment is not your typical lounge. The menu boasts an array of dishes that taste as good as they look. From small bites like their tasty slider trifecta to their mouthwatering french toast with fried chicken, this hot spot will send your inner foodie into a frenzy.
When you’re done with your meal, head over to the outdoor lounge space to finish your drink, converse with friends, and snap a few photos against the urban jungle backdrop.
2. The Guesthouse Bistro
Since opening in April, the Guesthouse Bistro has been the talk of Long Island. The Mediterranean Bistro fuses a medley of flavors that transport you to Morocco or Spain with each bite. The menu includes delectable seafood linguini, juicy pan-seared branzino, and delicious Berkshire pork chops.
The all-purpose restaurant serves lunch, brunch, dinner, and happy hour. They also offer weekly specials like “Wine Down Wednesdays,” which includes one glass of wine and a steak dinner for $39, and “Ladies Night,” on Thursdays, that includes BOGO sangria, wine, and signature cocktails.
3. Filé Gumbo Bar
Filé Gumbo Bar brings the heart and soul of New Orleans cuisine right to the streets of New York City. The posh Tribeca restaurant accurately captures the essence of Nola with dishes like the Iconic Jazz Fest Crawfish Bread, Louisiana BBQ Shrimp, and Tiny’s Gumbo on the menu.
And when your palette is ready to indulge in something sweet, the Brown Butter Bourbon Bread Pudding will satisfy your sweet tooth.
4. Somethin' on Myrtle
Give your tastebuds a party with Somethin’ on Myrtle’s vibrant menu fused with Asian and Caribbean delectable dishes. This quaint food hub not only serves platters of exotic cuisines, but the 90s R&B music and welcoming vibe create an ambiance that envelopes you as soon as you walk in.
5. Lips Cafe
Lips Cafe’s tagline, “We don’t coffee, we serve community,” is accurate, but they also offer some of the best lattes, matchas, teas, and smoothies in Brooklyn. The charming, welcoming cafe features an array of art on the walls, fun swag for sale, and a small but diverse menu that offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Located in the heart of the Caribbean, aka Flatbush, Brooklyn, I’m convinced each dish was made with love and vibes by someone’s West Indian auntie or granny.
While the menu is excellent, Lips Cafe is a fan favorite because it unites the neighborhood through acts of community. Events like yoga classes, sip and paints, comedy shows, and open mic nights are just a few of the fun fetes you can attend.
6. Bunna Cafe
If you’re looking for a vegan option dripping with culture and flavor, you’ll want to visit Bunna Cafe. The plant-based Ethiopian restaurant is located in Bushwick, Brooklyn, but the food and ambiance take you on a quick voyage to East Africa. Enjoy an array of traditional dishes like the Injera rolls served with Enguday Tibs, Gomen, Shiro, Butecha Selata, and so much more.
