Los Angeles is a melting pot for creativity, culture, and cuisine. You can find a little bit of everything in LA and food is no exception. With so many options, it can be difficult to decide where to eat when visiting the city.
Travel Noire has curated a list of some of the most popular Black-owned restaurants in LA. From mouth-watering barbecue to the finest in vegan goodness, LA has it all cooked up just how you’ll like it.
My 2 Cent LA
An elaborate spin on elevated, southern cuisine, My 2 Cent LA is the brainchild of Chef Alysa Reynolds. The menu is influenced by her parents’ deep south heritage with dishes like catfish tacos, fried green tomatoes, and grilled pork chop. Chef Reynold’s soul food with a twist has caught the attention of travelers, locals, and celebrities. The chef has served stars like ASAP Rocky, Lena Waithe, and even President Barack Obama.
Harold & Belle’s
When Harold Legaux Sr. opened Harold & Belle’s in 1969, the menu only consisted of po-boy sandwiches, red beans & rice, and filé gumbo. The gumbo was only served on Fridays and Harold Sr. simply wanted a chill spot for his NOLA friends to kick back and play pool. Today, under the ownership of his son and his wife, the restaurant is a favorite for sophisticated dining full of soul in LA. A fine experience with soulful flavors and a Creole backdrop, Harold & Belle’s is the perfect place to get New Orleans goodness in the City of Angels.
RibTown
If you’re looking for authentic, pit-smoked barbecue, look no further than RibTown. The owner, Lonnie Edwards, has been perfecting the art of barbecuing since he was 10 years old. Now, RibTown is his pride and joy, serving up plates of savory, unforgettable goodness every day in LA. Top picks from the RibTown menu are the hot link sandwich, rib plate, and combo plate for a little bit of everything.
Rahel Ethiopian Vegan Cuisine
For the best in vegan goodness in LA, you must try the food at Rahel Ethiopian Vegan Cuisine. The restaurant prides itself on remaining true to its organic, vegan roots. Authentic Ethiopian dishes like split lentil stew, potato stew, and split pea stew can be found on their menu. Guests have fallen in love with their use of fresh ingredients and spice-infused sauces.
Hawkins House Of Burgers
Located in the Watts neighborhood, Hawkins House of Burgers is the go-to Black-owned burger joint in Los Angeles. The outside counter service restaurant has been an LA staple for over 80 years and people keep coming back for more. Their burgers are fresh, never frozen, and the restaurant’s staff showcase how to create the perfect burger year after year.
Patties N Tingz
Although they don’t have a website, TikTok will tell you everything you need to know about Patties N Tingz. For one, it’s the dream destination of anyone looking for the best Los Angeles Caribbean food. The walk-up, counter service establishment serves a variety of patties, ginger beer, and Caribbean favorites.