Did you know that Austin, the fourth-largest city in Texas, is home to a number of thriving, Black-owned businesses?
In the culinary industry alone, there are many restaurants with Black ownership, offering all kinds of food from BBQ to international dishes. Here’s one thing to remember about portions in the Lone Star state: even the so-called appetizers can be very generous. So a big appetite is your ally.
There are other businesses highlighted here, such as hair salons, tours, candle companies and more. If you’re going to Austin for a quick trip, here are some Black-owned establishments to support.
1. Day 1- Morning
Why have mediocre food at your hotel when there are plenty of Black-owned restaurants to patronize for your first meal of the day?
Head over to Bird Bird Biscuit on Manor Road. They’re known for their delicious chicken and biscuit sandwiches. You can purchase just the biscuits themselves with gravy, jam, or biscuit holes dipped in cinnamon sugar.
Round that out with some coffee or tea, and you’ll be well fueled to tackle your day.
Next, peruse Black Pearl Books, an independent bookstore on Burnet Road. There are a number of titles written by Black authors, available in hard copy and e-book format.
2. Afternoon
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If you’re curious about Black history in Austin, why not book a virtual tour? Be sure to have a laptop or other device with good audio.
Javier, a Black man born and raised in Austin, offers tours focused on the contributions Black people have made to Texas. His family has been there for nearly 200 years, and he’s passionate about sharing that history with others.
According to Airbnb experiences, some sites and institutions covered by the tour include the Black origins of 6th Street & Catfish Station, Huston-Tillotson University (an HBCU), and the George Washington Carver museum.
Got a sweet tooth? Reach out to The Cupcake Guys, owned by three Black men. Michael Griffin and Brian Orakpo are former NFL athletes, and the third, Bryan Hynson, has a background in sales.
Hungry for a plant-based lunch? Head over to Wasota Vegan Paradise, founded by Lawrence Eguakun. The menu offers Black Eyed Pea fritters, flavorful veggie burgers, and Jollof rice, among others.
Want to purchase some affordable body and hair products? Go to Black Butterfly Bath & Body. The storefront is set to reopen January 2022, and there’s also an online store.
3. Evening
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The founder of Jeany’s Caribbean Elixirs was born in Grenada and moved to Austin in 2006. She learned how to make drinks from her grandmother on the island.
You can find her refreshing beverages either at the Mueller Farmers Market or Barton Creek Farmers Market.
Try the Very Berry Elixir loaded with ginger, pineapple, lime, mango and strawberries. In addition to the line of juices, there are sauces and collard green egg rolls for sale, too.
4. Day 2- Morning
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Purchase some gifts from Walk By Faith Candles, which makes an appearance at various pop up markets throughout Austin. There is also an online store.
The company was founded by Tamisha Brewer, whose creations are inspired by her faith.
Check out scents like God’s Love, Manifest and Day At The Spa. Each candle is handcrafted with soy wax, and it comes with a hand-picked scripture or quote to inspire you.
If you have a craving for popcorn (there’s no other snack quite like it), check out Soul Popped Gourmet Popcorn. It was started by De J. Lozada who took a leap of faith with minimal funds in her bank account.
There’s the standard butter flavor, but be sure to check out the BBQ, Macaroni and Cheese and Fried Chicken varieties, among others.
5. Afternoon
If you’re one of those travelers who likes to keep active on vacation, work up a sweat at Dance XB, founded by Black dancer Jo Briggs.
The dance world can be cliquish and intimidating sometimes, but this studio prides itself on being inclusive of all body types and skill levels. But if you’re looking to study dance seriously, there are private classes and workshops designed specifically for that.
6. Evening
If you’d like to get your hair braided before you head home, check out Rootz Braiding Studio on Research Boulevard. Please note that they aren’t open Sundays or Mondays and appointments are required.
The slogan is, “we make the hair, you rock the style” and the business has developed a devoted following since Seun, the founder, moved to Austin in 2013.
