When mentioning Queens, most people quickly think of music. Nicki Minaj and 50 Cent probably jump to mind, not realizing the area has several other non-musical gems. As one of New York’s largest and most diverse boroughs, feeding at least 2.3 million people, Queens has transformed into a hot spot for international eating.

Here are the best black-owned restaurants in Queens.

1.Queens Bully

113-30 Queens Blvd

Forest Hills, NY 11375

Participate in Trivia Wednesdays, Thirsty Thursdays, and enjoy succulent Salmon & Grits with black eye relish and sweet tea broth. Executive chef and newly crowned Food Network’s “Chopped” champion Melvin “Boots” Johnson is known for his homegrown cooking and master Memphis-style barbecue, even though he’s originally from San Diego.

2. Vibes Bar and Cafe

143-06 Liberty Ave

Jamaica, New York 11435

Come and feel the Vibes at this local trendy Caribbean bar and nightclub right off the Van Wyck Expressway. Cool ambiance, soft lighting and classic R&B music bring in the city’s socialites and young professionals with a rich, hearty menu with seafood and soul food fixings. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day with special jazz and comedy events. Tip: Vibes is just a few feet away from the Q9 bus stop, check their local route.

3. Henrica’s Restaurant and Lounge

138-89 Francis Lewis Blvd.

Queens, NY

A true New Yorker can’t resist local Chinese food, especially when it has a Caribbean/Jamaican twist. Located in the heart of Rosedale, Henrica’s is a fusion between Jamaican and Chinese food with a few specialties in between. You can enjoy pepper steak lo mein, Tofu chop suey, sweet and sour jerk chicken and run dung with coconut sauce.

4. Jamaica Breeze

103-02 Astoria Blvd.

East Elmhurst,NY 11369

Wah Gwaan. On the side of this corner restaurant is a map of Jamaica, reflective of the influence of their food and recipes passed down from generation to generation. Enjoy classic drinks like Vitamalt Bottled Soda, D&G Genuine Jamaican and my personal favorite, citrus cocktail Ting. Check out their $5.95 lunch special.

5. Island Taste Caribbean Restaurant and Lounge

243-10 Merrick Blvd

Queens, NY 11422

I just want to know who is going to meet me for the $21.00 pre-fixed Crab-fest Wednesdays? Can’t pass up a deal that good. Ackee & salt fish, callaloo and brown stew chicken are a few of the recommended dishes served during their unlimited Sunday brunch.

6. Pa-Nash Eurosoul Restaurant and Lounge

144-14 243rd St.

Queens, NY 11422

Spend this Easter at this elegant Euro-soul Mediterranean restaurant and lounge for a pre-fixed 3-course brunch, with complimentary mimosas, a hat fashion show, and live entertainment. Nestled right between Queens and Long Island, this hidden gem offers a calm ambiance with soft turquoise colors, silver detailing, and luxurious chandeliers. A Euro soul fusion of Mediterranean, Caribbean, Moroccan and soul food and other exotic flavors, such as their Fig Glazed chicken wings, served with hot chili sauce.

7. Island Cuisine & Catering

153-35 Hillside Ave,

Queens, NY 11432

If you like soul food, potato salad and nine different flavors of chicken wings, this place should be one of your top options. I’m more of a lemon pepper or honey BBQ type of girl, but I’d give their smothered gravy wings a try. Formally known as Burgundy’s Cafe, their menu also features flavors of Jamaica, Trinidad and Guyana.

8. The Door

163-07Baisley Blvd.

Jamaica, NY 11434

Enjoy traditional island food—oxtails, jerk chicken, fish and chicken soup at this Jamaican hotspot. Between its chic atmosphere, excellent food and kind customer service, it’s definitely worth the wait. Check out their weekly specials, including brunch buffets on Sunday and Seafood and Chicken buffets on Thursdays, with freshly steamed snapper, carrots, and okra.

#TNFirsts // Meet Kilee

AUTHOR: Travel Noire

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Travel Noire