From the Underground Railroad to the jazz era and to now, Pennsylvania’s history with African-Americans is felt throughout the city, in various displays of black excellence through food, history, and music. Known for their jazz scene, Pittsburgh is home to music legends George Benson, Walter Harper, and jazz drummer Roger Humphries, to name a few.
Planning a trip to Pittsburgh soon? Here’s how to spend your day in black-owned Pittsburgh.
Arnold’s Coffee and Tea
August Wilson Cultural Center and Museum
Honor the legacy of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright August Wilson and other contributions to the arts at this multi-purpose event space, used for art galleries, live performances, dance showcases and educationally-driven events for the youth. This year marks the tenth anniversary since the center opened in 2009. The center hosts weekly exhibits and live dance and spoken word performances that are free to all. Last year, the center closed for renovations but has since reopened, furthering their mission to “to own and operate a home for the arts, storytelling, learning, and exchange around the African-American experience and the rich culture of the African-American diaspora.”
Kolor-n-Kiln Pottery Studio
Get in touch with your creative side and make something special for your loved ones that they will cherish forever. The studio is located inside the Mall at Robinson. It’s truly a relaxing atmosphere open for imagination and creation. Come enjoy making ceramic paintings, wood cutouts, glass fixtures, and more at this family-friendly spot. I want people to “feel like they were in an atmosphere where they could just sit around, be themselves, create something special and have that item forever so they can look back and remember the time they were here at Kolor-n-Kiln,” co-owner Allison Blackburn said. Check their calendar for curated events and weekly specials.
Fresh Fest
Eat plenty of food before you drink booze at the first ever black beer festival this summer. Three beer connoisseurs wanted to encourage more people of color to indulge in the beer community. Co-owners Day Bracey and Ed Bailey of Drinking Partners Podcast and Mike Potter of Black Brew Culture magazine brought 12 black-owned breweries together, wanting to “create an environment of inclusivity with the black community and giving them a space to come in and feel safe [exploring the brewing community],” Bracey explains. The festival is back on this year at Saturday, August 10 from 12 – 9 pm at Nova Place.
Showcase BBQ
Sugar & Smoke
I thought New York was the only place that had a “Little Italy” until I found this southern kitchen and bar. Sugar & Smoke, where you’ll find southern charm, hospitality, and delicious food, earning the Diner’s Choice Award last year. Mt. Washington owner Andrea Robinson brought southern charm and hospitality to the Northeast with traditional comfort food and southern favorites such as collard greens with smoked turkey, po’boys and fried green tomatoes. She fell in love with southern food, while working as a chemical engineer down south. WIthin seen months, Robinson is making a name for herself in Bloomfield, one of Pittsburgh emerging communities.
Savoy
Enjoy a taste of the good life with fun, food, people and live entertainment at this restaurant/lounge. Celebrate in Pittsburgh’s funky jazz scene at Savoy’s weekly jazz nights or any other nights. Wine down and drink from their award-winning wine selection, while listening and dancing to local jazz favorites.