During these times of political upheaval from the Trump administration, Black people have been one of the groups hit the hardest by the changes in legislation. A lot of Black people have found comfort, and their allies have found comfort in turning to their communities, especially supporting their Black owned local restaurants. However, as more people are trying to learn more about African American history, it is worth traveling to see more Black culinary destinations rather than just sticking with the ones just in your neighborhood. We have gathered 4 black-owned restaurants across the U.S. that you should check out next time you travel.
Neyow’s Creole Café
Located in New Orleans, this restaurant is a staple for authentic Creole cuisine. Customers can eat their heart out with crawfish balls, file’ gumbo, char-grilled oysters, and try the restaurant’s signature fruit punch. Debuting in 2010, Owner Tanya Dubuclet’s restaurant has become a go-to for locals and visitors who can’t get enough of her homestyle dishes, hospitality, and vibrant atmosphere. The name of the restaurant was inspired by the Neapolitan Mastiff, the Dubuclet family’s favorite dog breed, as a symbol of loyalty, strength, and family roots.
Soul Bowl
While Soul Bowl started as a pop-up in 2017, it has made its name as a soul food restaurant in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Soul Bowl is owned by Chef Gerard Klass, who has an emphasis on signature bowls in vegan/vegetarian options and putting the soul back in restaurant dining. He has community seating and lawn games to create a sense of community that mimics his childhood. What makes this restaurant special is not only their unique menu item names (Queen B Lemonade, Riri Sweet Plantains) but also their inspirations from Caribbean-style meals.
Jambo Café
If you are in the mood for African or Caribbean cuisine. Jambo Café is the spot to go if you are in Santa Fe. The café has won numerous awards, from Best International Food from 2010-2025, to their owner, Chef Ahmed Obo has won “Best Chef” from 2015-2025, among many more accolades. Chef Obo takes his inspiration from Lamu Island, which is off the coast of Kenya, citing a fusion of Swahili, Indian, Arabic, and European influences. Since August 2009, the restaurant has built up a loyal fanbase who love their specialty dishes like the North African spiced lamb burger, the Moroccan spiced marinated chicken kebabs, and their stews.
Kismayo Kitchen
Becoming the first Somali restaurant in Burlington, Vermont, in 2019, the late owner, Ahmed Omar, created his restaurant as part of his American dream and as a homage to his mother, who was a chef in Kismayo, Somalia. Kismayo Kitchen is known for being a place for the Burlington community to share stories and connect with others. If you are new to Somalian food, each menu is prepared with delicious flavors, especially standout menu items like the coconut chicken stew with rice, beef samosa, and cheesesteak sandwich.
Have you tried any of these restaurants? Let us know in the comments!
