Some would say the heart and soul of New York rests within Brooklyn. The borough is a hotspot for culture, hip-hop, and a melting pot of entrepreneurs and black millennials looking to create their own definition of success, as The Notorious B.I.G. did with his music career. In appreciation, the block he grew up on is soon to be named Christopher Wallace Way, as a dedication of his contributions to music, the culture and what he meant to the Bedford-Stuyvesant community. Despite gentrification, Brooklyn’s black community is thriving and black businesses are on top.
Here’s where to spend your day in black-owned Brooklyn.
HealHaus Wellness Café
Woodlands For Brunch
242 Flatbush Ave.
After receiving that burst of energy and zen, enjoy breakfast at Woodlands, a short walk from the Barclays Center. On any given Sunday around noon, the outside looks like the free before 11 line at the club. Between the dope blend of ’90s and 00’s music, with Afrobeats and Soca, guests show up in their Sunday’s best or best brunch fits. Woodlands is the premier brunch spot in Brooklyn.
Pay Respect to the King of New York at Mural of Notorious B.I.G.
Only true New Yorkers understand what it means to have a mural of Notorious B.I.G. painted in the heart of Brooklyn. Artists Scoot Zimmerman and Maoufal Alaoui made Biggie’s presence larger than life itself with this 38-foot mural. His daughter, Tyanna Wallace opened a Notorious Clothing Boutique on Atlantic Ave. in his honor.
Cafe Rue Dix
Senegal cuisine, French café fare. You can only imagine the smell of yucca, confit, and apricots and other fresh veggies and fruits. What’s even more enticing is their vintage shop right next door. Looking for vintage jewelry and apparel to indie cosmetics and incense and spices? @marcheruedix has got you covered.
Sip and Unwine
1197 Flatbush Ave.
Drink and unWine at this island-inspired eatery by Caribbean-American owners Peterkin and Lindel Pope. Come for their French Wine election and Caribbean rums and beers. Check the live music and paint nights.
