Written by: Ni’kesia Pannell
With everything so easily accessible now, finding a good place to eat typically isn’t that hard. Although you may hear about plenty of places that deliver exceptional service, delicious dishes, and delectable drinks, one thing that may end up missing from the most conversations is who the owner happens to be. Sure we see and celebrate many Black male chefs stirring the pots and building their businesses, but the ladies of the food industry are holding it down, too.
Give a nod to femme power with 15 of the best women-owned Black restaurants in the U.S.
Tassili’s Raw Reality — Atlanta, GA
If you’re looking for delicious raw vegan options without sacrificing taste or your time, Tassili’s Raw Reality is the place. They provide a unique variety of raw vegan items like spicy kale salad, juices, carob brownies, and their famous Punany Wrap, a spinach wrap kissed with soy mayo, kale salad, avocado, tomato, sweet coconut corn, and Karamu couscous. Each item on the menu is inspired by Tassili’s international palate.
Star Fusion — Philadelphia, PA
Owned by Darlene Jones, this enchanting restaurant has something on the menu for everyone in the family. Known as the “home of specialty wings and spring rolls,” Star Fusion was developed based on a mission that Jones adopted to create both a healthy and diverse dining option. The restaurant also offers a diabetic-friendly menu and in March 2019, gained a sister property in the vegan, cold-pressed juicery, Blu Diamond Juicery — also owned by Jones.
Calabash Tea & Tonic — Washington, D.C.
Fifth generation herbalist and naturopathic healer Dr. Sunyatta Amen’s celebrated restaurant Calabash Tea & Tonic is an absolute must try the next time you are in the D.C. area. Offering up unique décor and a warm and global environment that is representative of the culture it was derived from, Calabash serves up vegan goodies like Jamaican patties (sans beef), vegan BLTs, delicious pies, and more. Additionally, the restaurant features over 50 teas and tinctures to choose from. So whether you’re headed on a first day or just want to get a little healing, Calabash is perfect for any mood you’re in.
Hawi Ethiopian Cuisine — Ithaca, NY
Opening up in March 2015, Hawi Ethiopian Cuisine has garnered rave reviews from visitors and locals alike. Solely owned by Ethiopian chef Gedese Degebasa, Hawi features an array of Ethiopian cuisine including mild and spicy stews and lamb, beef, chicken, and vegetarian based dishes.
Sky’s Gourmet Tacos — Los Angeles, CA
Established more than two decades ago, Sky’s Gourmet Tacos has become a staple location for fusion food. Serving up Mexican cuisine combined with a bit of soul, Barbara “Sky” Burrell has created an extensive menu of imaginative and delicious tacos that are a clear reflection of the bursting community that the restaurant is housed in.
Taste of Nigeria — Houston, TX
Looking for authentic and mouth watering made West African cuisine? You’ll definitely want to head over to Taste of Nigeria in Houston, TX. Co-owned by Tiffaney Odewale and her husband Ayo Odewale, the restaurant hosts a menu of over 50 unique dishes that celebrate both the cuisine and culture of the country.
Nana’s Chicken and Waffles — Conyers, GA
Designed to deliver a family style dinner with influences from both Louisiana and Maryland, Nana’s Chicken and Waffles will leave you wanting more before you even head out of the restaurant. Owned by Kellie Ferrell, Nana’s offers foodies, families, and friends alike the opportunity to experience fusion comfort food while staying on budget. From New Orleans style beignets to Cajun shrimp and grits, there’s guaranteed to be something on the menu for everyone to enjoy.
DaJen Eats Cafe — Eatonville, FL
If you have plans to head down to the Orlando, FL area anytime soon, you’ll definitely want to carve out a little extra time to take the short trip over to Eatonville. Founded by Chef Jenn Ross, DaJen Eats Cafe has become a restaurant to watch for vegan cuisine. Combined with a Jamaican flair, each dish at DaJen will leave your tastebuds soaring. And, she even offers cooking classes!
La Patisserie Choquette — St. Louis, MO
Whether you’re looking for a way to soothe your sweet tooth or just want to relax a bit over tea time, Simone Faure’s La Patisserie Chouquette French pastry shop will help alleviate your craving. Known for creating classic goodies with a pop-culture influence, each one of the decadent and memorable creations will leave your begging for more.
The Grey — Savannah, GA
Founded in Historic Downtown Savannah by co-partner and Executive Chef Mashama Bailey, The Grey offers patrons the opportunity to embark on a journey of tasty goodness. Creating dishes that are soulful in flavor and rooted in tastebud elevation, guests will discover a melting pot of comforting and surprising tastes in every option on the menu.
Bennachin — New Orleans, LA
Bennachin offers a delicious taste of African cuisine for vegans and carnivores alike. Fanta Tambajang of Gambia first opened Bennachin in Metairie, LA in 1992 with a since-departed partner from Cameroon. The restaurant later moved to the French Quarter where it has been for years. Bennachin Restaurant offers the freshest ingredients, the fastest, friendliest service and the best dining experience possible.
Gocha’s Breakfast Bar — Atlanta, GA
Celebrity hairstylist Gocha Hawkins is doing more than just slaying your fav’s hair these days; she’s slaying delicious meals, too. Operating in the Cascade area of Atlanta, GA, Gocha’s Breakfast Bar has quickly become a go-to destination for anyone looking for a modern, yet premiere dining experience. And yes, everything on the menu is worth a try.
Brown Sugar Kitchen — Oakland, CA
The creation of Executive Chef Tanya Holland, Brown Sugar Kitchen has become a staple in the West Oakland community. Serving up locally grown, organic, and seasonal ingredients for all of their dishes, BSK’s unique interpretation of soul food has continued to set the bar and make an unforgettable statement.
Fusion Flare Kitchen and Cocktails — Detroit Michigan
If you’re planning to swing through Detroit in the near future, don’t forget to make a stop by Mashelle Sykes’ Fusion Flare Kitchen and Cocktails. Utilizing fresh and local ingredients, this restaurant delivers high-end dishes on an affordable budget.
Twisted Soul Cookhouse and Pours — Atlanta, GA
After traveling the world for 25 years, Chef Deborah VanTrece decided that it was time for her to embark on her own journey as a restaurant owner. Opening in 2014, Twisted Soul Cookhouse and Pours has given Atlanta locals, transplants, and visitors a delectable dining experience that won’t break the bank or leave you disappointed. And with menu options like the Jack Daniels Honey Pecan Wings and the Dirty South Fried Chicken Omelette, who would even expect you to?
