Last year, San Antonio held its first-ever black restaurant week showcasing the city’s diverse food scene. Attendees experienced delicious bites of chicken, BBQ, authentic soul food, and other Texas treats. Head organizer Ryane Smith believes the best way to learn about a culture is through food. With BRWSA, she hoped to support and highlight all black-owned restaurants and businesses in the city, shaking up the community’s perception of what black is. It’s bigger than food. “This is an opportunity to support black-owned businesses this week and throughout the year,” she said in an interview. “This is just the beginning.”
Looking to support your local community in San Antonio or planning a trip soon? Here are a few black-owned businesses to check out.
Savor Breakfast Over at The South Chicken and Waffles
Start with a good hearty breakfast at The South Chicken and Waffles. Their signature chicken is syrupy, savory, and juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The soon to be chain restaurant is looking to franchise in the future.
Trail Your Ancestor’s History in Texas
The Institute of Texan Cultures delves into the artifacts, programs, documents, and other exhibits that detail what makes the state of Texas so great. The Texas Hill Country Region explores 19 counties in Texas that make up the state’s rich history. If you’re up for an hour drive, tour the African American Cultural District to see the George Washington Carver Museum in Austin.
Jamaican Me Hungry
Since opening last year, The Jerk Shack has become one of the hottest restaurants in the city. It was also featured as one of the best new restaurants in America. With a walk-up window on the West Side, they offer authentic Jamaican dishes with lines leading into the street.
Pour into the local arts.
San Antonio’s small population unites through food and supporting the arts. Attend an artist showcase or dance performance at the Carver Community Cultural Center. Check the center’s website for dates for comedy shows, plays, ballets, and other live performances. Last year, the Rennie Harris Puremovement dance company performed with several San Antonio choir members.
Munch on some good BBQ and country cooking,
Big Bib BBQ has the flavor you won’t forget, Texas-style. Feast on turkey plates, jalapeno sausage, green beans, and sweet desserts like peach cobbler and chocolate brownies. This award-winning restaurant feeds San Antonio and surrounding cities from Mission Road and Lanark Drive, less than 10 minutes from the airport.