Black celebrities are making sure we stay entertained beyond the movies, music, sports, and television shows. Some of them are also bringing smiles and good vibes to restaurants. From coffee shops to bakeries and bars, these noteworthy Black-owned celebrity restaurants throughout the United States will leave you feeling like a star in your own right.
Ayesha Curry’s International Smoke
This popular fine-dining BBQ eatery is a collaboration between Chef Michael Mina and celebrity television host Ayesha Curry. The restaurant fuses BBQ and international smoking techniques with variations of different proteins. They have a delicious vegetarian menu for those who don’t consume the proteins they offer. International Smoke fuses the owner’s love for travel and international cuisine in the form of barbecue and grilling.
- Location: Millennium Tower San Francisco, Las Vegas
- Owners: Chef Michael Mina and Ayesha Curry
- Type of Cuisine: Global Fusion
- Menu Spotlight: Ribs, Pork Belly Fried Rice, Pork Buns, Corn Bread, Key Lime Parfait
- Before You Go: The restaurant accepts reservations. Vegan options are available.
Blaze Pizza Franchises With Lebron James
LeBron James’ journey to becoming a part owner of Blaze Pizza began in 2012 when he invested $1 million in the fast-growing pizza chain. Alongside his business partner Maverick Carter and financial advisor Paul Wachter, they opened Blaze restaurants in Chicago and Miami.
Initially, his involvement was limited due to his endorsement deal with McDonald’s, which prevented him from actively promoting Blaze Pizza. However, as Blaze Pizza expanded and his equity stake grew, James solidified his role as an investor and an endorser of the brand.
- Location: Various nationwide
- Owners: Lebron James and Paul Wachter (alongside founders Elise and Rick Wetzel)
- Type of Cuisine: Fast-casual pizza
- Menu Spotlight: The Carnivore, Meatball Pie, and Blazed BBQ
- Before you go: Vegan and gluten-free options are available.
Cam Newton’s Fellaship
Fellaship.ATL, the brainchild of former NFL Quarterback Cam Newton and Cecil Newton Jr., is more than just a restaurant. It manifests the values that have shaped their lives. From its beginnings, the fellowship has been a cornerstone of their upbringing, rooted in the principles of family, football, and the bond of community.
Their journey led them back to their beloved hometown, where they sought to create a haven where culture, cigars, and exceptional cuisine converge under one roof. In this space, patrons experience the warm embrace of true hospitality.
- Location: Atlanta
- Owners: Cam Newton, Cecil Newton Jr.
- Type of Cuisine: American, Southern, Soul Food
- Menu Spotlight: The brunch menu features fried chicken and its signature blueberry lemon waffles. Pair the dish with one of its signature mimosas. A popular dinner menu item is the lamb chops served with bourbon and rosemary gastrique, sauteed broccoli, and garlic mashed potatoes.
- Before you go: The dress code is strictly enforced. Guests should be in business casual attire. Shorts, flip-flops, tank tops, ball caps, basketball sneakers, and athletic wear are prohibited. On Sundays, sports jerseys are accepted.
Issa Rae’s Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen
Located in the heart of Los Angeles, Hilltop & Kitchen stands as a beacon of community, creativity, and connection. Founded in August 2018 by co-creators Yonnie Hagos and Ajay Relan, this visionary coffee shop first took root in Windsor Hills.
She opened the cafe with an initial purpose committed to providing an inclusive haven for all. Hilltop’s mission was simple yet profound: to unite people through the shared love of food and drink. A year later, Issa Rae joined forces with Hagos and Relan to launch Hilltop & Kitchen in Inglewood. The trio expanded their vision in 2020, opening a third location on Eagle Rock Blvd.
- Location: Various in Los Angeles (Slauson, Inglewood, Eagle Rock, DTLA)
- Owners: Issa Rae, Yonnie Hagos, and Ajay Relan
- Type of Cuisine: American
- Menu Spotlight: Bangin’ Breakfast Burrito, Bangin’ Breakfast Sandwich, Crispy Chicken, and Slauson Brew
- Before you go: Vegan and gluten-free options are available. The cafe also hosts regular community events, supporting local artists and promoting a sense of unity within the neighborhood.
Michael Jordan’s Steak House (InterContinental Chicago)
This steakhouse experience is a testament to the enduring legacy of an NBA icon and an entrepreneur. Michael Jordan has redefined the meaning of excellence both on and off the court. This iconic restaurant is a tribute to the astute businessman behind the name.
At Michael Jordan Steak House, he and the staff elevate the art of steak preparation to a level they proudly refer to as “steakmanship.” Here, the commitment to culinary perfection mirrors Jordan’s dedication to excellence in every endeavor.
- Location: Chicago (InterContinental and Oak Brook)
- Owner: Michael Jordan
- Type of Cuisine: American, Steakhouse
- Menu Spotlight: The signature dishes are the way to go, including the Filet Mignon, Waygu Cheeseburger, Maple Glazed Bacon Chicken Wings, Four Cheese Mac and Cheese
- Before you go: The restaurant is inside the InterContinental along Chicago’s Magnificent Mile and accepts reservations.
Pharrell Williams’ Swan and Bar Bevy
Swan, the brainchild of music icon Pharrell Williams and his longtime culinary confidant Chef Jean Imbert, is a gastronomic masterpiece. From the indulgent burrata adorned with fresh figs to the innovative “standing” Caesar salad crowned with rosemary bread crumbs, every bite at Swan is a symphony of flavors. Complete your journey with a sweet crescendo in the form of a chocolate soufflé drizzled with house-made Nutella, and you’ll understand why Swan has become a coveted destination for exploration in Miami’s thriving dining scene.
- Location: Miami, Florida (Miami’s Design District)
- Owners: Pharrell Williams, David Grutman, and Chef Jean Imbert
- Type of Cuisine: European, Fusion
- Menu Spotlight: Lemon Garlic Chicken, Blueberry Filet and Spicy Vodka Veal Parmigiana, Chips & Caviar, Hamachi Crudo and Everything Bagel Parker House Rolls.
- Before you go: Keep in mind the menu is centered around seasonal and market-driven ingredients, so items may vary. The restaurant accepts reservations.
Shaq’s Big Chicken
Retired Hall of Fame National Basketball Association star Shaquille O’Neal is the brains behind the national chain Big Chicken. While people know the center for his impressive stats as a professional basketball player, he’s giving people a taste of his younger years. The menu reflects flavors and favorites from his childhood.
Big Chicken is known for its finger-licking chicken sandwiches. Guests can pair the sandwiches with the brand’s signature dish—Lucille’s Mac ‘n’ Cheese, just like his mom made it.
- Location: Various
- Owner: Shaquille O’Neal
- Type of Cuisine: American
- Menu Spotlight: The Ultimate Chicken Sandwich features its signature mac ‘n’ cheese, crispy fried onions, roasted garlic, and barbecue aioli sauce. A simpler option is available for people who don’t want the dressings. The Original Big Chicken Sandwich has pickles and the secret “Shaq sauce.”
- Before you go: No vegetarian or vegan options are available at this time.
Beyond the great food, stellar service, and overall good vibes, these celebrities are providing guests with unique dining while investing in local communities, so it’s worth supporting. Adding these restaurants to your itinerary may also be worth it because there’s a strong possibility you could meet your favorite Black celebrities inside. Make sure you are photo-ready.
