The Way to the Heart is Through the Belly
It is getting close to the time when you need to have your plans locked in for celebrating the day of love. Yes, Valentine’s Day is coming up soon and while gifts are always an option (check out our gift guides here and here), sometimes a night out at a nice restaurant is the way to go. Good news for you is that there are hundreds of Black Owned Restaurants across the country for you visit, but if you needed some inspiration, don’t worry that’s what we are here for. This list of 30 Black Owned Restaurants for a Night out covers much of the country and offers up a variety of cuisines from Soul Food to Traditional Steak Houses and Seafood. There are family owned restaurants and James Beard nominees for you to explore. So enjoy this list and tell us what ones make your list.
MIDA, a chic Italian-inspired restaurant in Boston’s South End, brings warmth and flavor to your romantic night out. Led by Chef Douglass Williams, recognized as one of Food & Wine’s Best New Chefs in 2020, MIDA celebrates Italian cuisine with generous portions and a menu designed to be shared. From house-made pastas to decadent desserts, the focus is on thoughtful, soulful food. The cozy, upscale atmosphere makes MIDA an exceptional choice for a heartfelt Valentine’s Day dinner.
Huncho House delivers an exclusive and intimate dining experience in the D.C. metro area, blending culinary innovation with a touch of exclusivity. With a limited reservation model, this Chef Tobias Dorzon’s upscale restaurant offers a personalized atmosphere ideal for couples looking for a private and sophisticated date night. The menu, designed to elevate familiar flavors, pairs beautifully with curated cocktails and an ambiance perfect for sparking romance.
Brendon’s Catch 23 is a seafood and steakhouse gem, combining contemporary elegance with a menu that highlights fresh, high-quality ingredients. From the indulgent crab cakes to perfectly cooked steaks, every dish is crafted with precision. You wouldn’t think a restaurant in the heart of Louisville would be known for seafood, but the chefs at Brendan’s fly it in daily. Not only is the fish fresh, but the steaks are hand cut prime pieces of beef guaranteed to make your mouth water. The polished interior and attentive service create a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for couples looking to indulge in a sophisticated Valentine’s dinner.
Based in Baltimore, Marylarie is dedicated to serving quality, flavorful rotisserie dishes. Chef Joseph Burton’s meals are inspired from his culinary journey. The fresh, homestyle dishes bring warmth and comfort to your dinners. Their commitment to using fresh ingredients ensures that every meal is both delicious and memorable. The inviting atmosphere and focus on quality make it a go-to spot for those seeking hearty, home-style rotisserie meals. Make sure you reserve your table though, because this intimate space fills up quickly.
Detroit’s Table No. 2 redefines fine dining with its unique tableside preparation and impeccable attention to detail. Known for its intimate atmosphere and a menu that features elevated takes on classic dishes, the restaurant offers an unparalleled experience for couples. This includes the option for the Chef’s Table Experience, which gives you and your guest a true VIP experience. Whether you’re enjoying the chef’s signature dishes or the decadent dessert offerings, Table No. 2 ensures your Valentine’s night is as memorable as it is romantic.
Kevin Kelley, a serial entrepreneur is the visionary behind Kitchen and Kocktails. With locations in Dallas, Chicago, Charlotte, Atlanta and Washington D.C., you can plan date night and not be too far from the K+K experience. Kitchen + Kocktails reinvents classic comfort food with a modern twist, creating a lively yet upscale dining experience that is inspired by Kelley’s travels and life overseas. The menu features soulful favorites like fried chicken and waffles and savory seafood dishes, all elevated with flair. Complemented by expertly crafted cocktails and a chic, stylish setting, Kitchen + Kocktails is perfect for couples seeking a fun and flavorful Valentine’s Day celebration.
Set in the heart of historic Old Town Alexandria, 1799 Prime exudes elegance with its classic steakhouse ambiance and a refined menu that highlights premium steaks and fresh seafood. With its plush interiors, intimate private dining spaces, and innovative cocktails, 1799 Prime is a luxurious setting for an unforgettable evening. Whether you’re savoring expertly cooked filet mignon or indulging in delicate seafood dishes, this restaurant ensures your date night is nothing short of extraordinary.
Situated in Oklahoma City, Black Walnut is a culinary gem led by James Beard Award-winning Chef Andrew Black. The restaurant offers an eclectic New American menu that surprises and delights the palate, blending unexpected flavors in a vibrant and unbuttoned atmosphere. It is one of the most buzzworthy Black Owned restaurants in America. Whether for lunch or dinner, Black Walnut provides a unique dining experience that reflects the rich cultural history of its neighborhood and will delight diners.
Located in the heart of downtown Houston, Bungalow Downtown Dining offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience. The restaurant features a fresh scratch kitchen and a high-energy bar, with multiple dining areas and an intimate rooftop patio boasting views of the city skyline.The menu features Prime steaks, fresh seafood and decadent desserts. Enjoy luxurious surroundings and delicious chef driven entrees. Bungalow is a great vibe for your romantic evenings.
Located at Lincoln Center in New York City, Tatiana is the latest venture by acclaimed chef Kwame Onwuachi. The restaurant presents a tapestry of Afro-Caribbean flavors interwoven with New York City culinary traditions, reflecting Onwuachi’s diverse heritage and upbringing. Diners can expect a menu that pays homage to the city’s rich cultural mosaic, offering dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in familial traditions.To step out of the average Italian or Steakhouse option, Tatiana is a great choice to do and eat fresh vibrant flavors that will make your palette dance.
In Columbus, Ohio, you can plan your night around Cut 132, the traditional steakhouse experience with a modern twist. Operated by the largest black owned hospitality group in the country, Thompson Hospitality, Cut 132 is a cut above and a showcase of the company’s expansive expertise. Offering USDA Prime steaks, including impressive cuts like the Tomahawk and Wagyu, the restaurant caters to both steak and seafood enthusiasts. They also feature a curated selection of 120 wine bottles and innovative cocktails with some prepared tableside. Cut 132 provides a dynamic dining atmosphere suitable for any occasion.
Located in the Mission Hills neighborhood, Fort Oak offers a contemporary dining experience focusing on live-fire cooking techniques. Created by San Diego Magazine’s best Chef of 2024 Brad Wise, Fort Aoak is also the Critic’s Choice for best restaurant. The menu features a variety of wood-fired dishes, from seafood to meats, complemented by an extensive drink selection. Housed in a transformed historic Ford dealership, the restaurant provides a unique atmosphere that blends modern design with rustic charm while emphasizing the culture of San Diego.
Located in Memphis, Tennessee, Mahogany Memphis specializes in upscale Southern cuisine with a dash of Creole flair. Dedicated to the local community and quality, visiting Mahogany is like getting a warm embrace from the city. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including favorites like Chicken & Waffles and Vegan Eggrolls, all crafted to bring comfort and satisfaction. With its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to authentic flavors, Mahogany Memphis provides a dining experience that embodies Southern hospitality.
Situated in New Orleans, Compère Lapin is the creation of James Beard Award-winning Chef Nina Compton. The restaurant seamlessly blends Caribbean flavors with French and Creole culinary traditions, offering a menu that reflects Chef Compton’s rich heritage and innovative approach. Dishes like curried goat and conch croquettes are served in a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it a must-visit for those seeking a unique and refined dining experience in a city that is known for its food.
Friday Saturday Sunday is a celebrated dining destination known for its inventive cuisine and intimate setting. It routinely ranks among the best dining options in the city of Brotherly Love, including winning the James Beard award for Outstanding Restaurant in 2023. The restaurant offers a thoughtfully crafted menu that changes with the seasons, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients. Be prepared to be dazzled and surprised with great creations on their tasting menu. With a commitment to exceptional service and a cozy ambiance, it’s an ideal spot for a memorable dining experience.
Leah and Louise
Situated in Charlotte, North Carolina, Leah & Louise is a modern juke joint inspired by the rich culinary traditions of the Mississippi River Valley. Founded by James Beard-nominated Chef Greg Collier and his business partner and wife, Subrina Collier, the restaurant offers modern interpretations of Southern classics, especially those from the Mississippi River Valley area, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients. They have even been acknowledged by the New York Times. With its vibrant atmosphere and soulful menu, Leah & Louise provides a dining experience that honors heritage while embracing innovation.
In San Diego’s North Park neighborhood, Louisiana Purchase brings the vibrant flavors and charm of New Orleans to the West Coast. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Quinnton Austin, the restaurant offers bold Southern dishes, including specialties like Alligator Andouille Cheesecake. The intimate setting, inspired by the French Quarter, and a curated cocktail menu featuring creations like the Voo Doo Carre, make it a lively spot for those seeking an authentic taste of the Bayou and a romantic evening.
Nestled in Houston’s Museum District, Lucille’s is a tribute to almost a century of culinary excellence inspired by the legacy of Lucille B. Smith. Co-founded by brothers Chris and Ben Williams, the restaurant specializes in well-refined Southern cuisine infused with international techniques and flavors. Signature dishes, such as their famous chili biscuits, are served in a cozy, historic setting, offering guests a taste of Southern hospitality and innovation. A love letter to their family legacy, Lucille’s is a must visit in Houston and great for any special occasion.
Located in Richmond, Virginia, Lillie Pearl is a New American restaurant that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of West Africa and the American South. Founded by husband-and-wife team Chef Michael Lindsey and Kimberly Love-Lindsey, the restaurant pays homage to their grandmothers, Lillie Pearl and Hattie, by blending heirloom ingredients with global influences. As the leading restaurateur of Richmond, Michael Lindsey makes sure each of his restaurants focuses on the food first and foremost, but service is also of the utmost importance. Lillie Pearl is about refined southern classics and seafood.It is a dining experience that is innovative and still familiar.
Located in New York City’s Chelsea neighborhood, Hav & Mar is a seafood restaurant and cocktail bar that offers a contemporary dining experience. One of the restaurants from Marcus Samuelsson, you know that there is an emphasis on tastes and unique flavors. This particular restaurant is led by Executive Chef Fariyal Abdullahi, one of the brightest upcoming chefs in the city. With a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, the menu features a variety of seafood dishes complemented by an extensive selection of cocktails. And yes, steak is also on the menu for those who are looking forward to the beef. The chic, modern ambiance makes Hav & Mar an ideal spot for both casual outings and special occasions.
Based in Seattle, Washington, Communion is a restaurant and bar that embodies the concept of “Seattle Soul.” Founded by Chef Kristi Brown alongside her son Damon, the establishment offers a menu that fuses Southern comfort food with Pacific Northwest ingredients, creating a unique culinary experience. Both Conde Nast and the New York Times have put Communion on their must visit lists. From Fried Green Tomatoes to the Grilled Mojo Chicken, you will fill your belly with this Pacific Northwest comfort food.The warm, community-focused atmosphere makes Communion a gathering place for friends and family to enjoy soulful dishes and creative cocktails.
Located in New Orleans, Louisiana, Morrow’s Steak is a premier dining destination offering a selection of high-quality steaks and seafood. For his fourth entry into the Crescent city’s culinary scene, Larry Morrow wanted to elevate the style he has been known for. Morrow Steak is focused on the main thing with prime steak of course, but they also feature double bone in pork chops and seafood. Morrow makes sure to also include odes to his Korean heritage as well with sushi adorning the menu. With a commitment to exceptional service and a refined atmosphere, the restaurant provides an upscale experience for guests seeking classic steakhouse fare with a modern twist. Whether for a special occasion or an intimate dinner, Morrow’s Steak delivers a memorable culinary experience in the heart of New Orleans.
Situated in downtown St. Joseph, Minnesota, Krewe brings the vibrant flavors of New Orleans to the Northland. Inspired by recipes passed down through generations, and the summer vacations spent visiting grandparents, the restaurant offers authentic Creole and Cajun dishes in a warm atmosphere. From smoked duck to shrimp jambalaya, Krewe provides a genuine taste of Louisiana, making it a standout destination for those seeking a culinary journey to the South without the long ride.
Barbecue isn’t a type of cuisine that you normally think of when you’re looking for that romantic evening. However, International Smoke provides a more refined experience that incorporates ‘cue into an ‘upscale’ presentation. With locations in San Francisco and Las Vegas, International Smoke is a collaboration between Chef Michael Mina and entrepreneur Ayesha Curry. The restaurant draws inspiration from global grilling traditions, offering a menu that includes wood fired steaks, seafood, ribs, and vegetarian entrees. Signature dishes such as smoked St. Louis-cut pork ribs and Ayesha’s fresh-baked cornbread showcase the fusion of international flavors, creating a dynamic dining experience that celebrates culinary diversity in barbecue in an environment that isn’t built like your average rib joint.
Located in Richmond, Virginia, Farm and Oak is a Southern table restaurant that serves as a spinoff of the beloved Lillie Pearl but “manages to stand on its own”, according to Richmond Magazine. The menu showcases Southern ingredients with global influences, offering dishes that are both familiar and innovative. With a commitment to quality and flavor, Farm + Oak provides a dining experience that celebrates the richness of Southern cuisine in a contemporary setting.
There aren’t as many fine dining options for vegans from Black Chefs but there are options that make for a nice night out. Based in Chicago, Illinois, Majani Soulful Vegan Cuisine is a fast-casual restaurant specializing in plant-based Southern dishes. Founded by Chef Tsadakeeyah and his wife Majani, the menu reflects their African heritage and rural upbringing, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and flavorful spices. With over 30 years as a vegan, Chef Tsadakeeyah knows what makes healthy and tasty vegan food with a broad appeal. Signature offerings include vegan soul bowls, BBQ cauliflower, and oyster mushroom tacos, providing a wholesome dining experience for both vegans and non-vegans alike. For a more laid back night on the town, check out Majani Soulful Vegan Cuisine
Located in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Kelsey’s is a premier destination for authentic Southern cuisine and live entertainment. A staple of the community, Kelsey’s has long been known for its excellence. It has even been featured on Food Network multiple times with owner Kelsey Jackson being chosen by Guy to prepare food for a “Diner’s, Drive-ins, and Dives” event. The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring classic dishes such as fried chicken, collard greens, and macaroni and cheese, all prepared with a modern twist. Guests can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere complemented by live jazz and blues performances, making it an ideal spot for both dining and entertainment.
For something a little different, you can check out Beyond Sweet Kitchen and Bar. Situated in St. Louis, Beyond Sweet Kitchen and Bar offers a vibrant dining experience with a focus on delectable dishes and desserts. The menu features a variety of starters, main courses, but the focus is on indulgent desserts, all crafted to delight the senses. This is perfect if you’re looking to do something lighter or you are ready to indulge your sweet tooth. With its lively atmosphere and commitment to quality, it’s an ideal spot for both casual outings and special occasions.
Roots Southern Table, located in Farmers Branch (just outside of Austin), Texas, is a celebrated restaurant founded by Chef Tiffany Derry and her partner, Tom Foley. The establishment pays homage to Southern culinary traditions, reflecting the way Chef Derry grew up eating in the South. The menu features dishes such as Duck-Fat Fried Chicken, Texas Red Fish, and My Mother’s Gumbo, all crafted with a commitment to field-to-table eating and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant has received significant acclaim, including nominations for Best New Restaurant and Best Chef, Texas, by the James Beard Foundation, and recognition from The New York Times and Esquire. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere, Roots Southern Table evokes the feeling of coming home to those you love, offering great food, service, and conversation.
With two locations in Georgia (the third in College Park recently suffered a devastating fire), Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar brings the rich culinary traditions of the Gullah Geechee culture to the forefront. Founder Gee Smalls wanted to share the food from his culture with his new home of Atlanta. Named for his father, the restaurant offers a menu inspired by the coastal cuisines of South Carolina and Georgia, featuring dishes like shrimp and grits, crab rice, and okra soup. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and commitment to cultural authenticity, Virgil’s provides a unique dining experience that celebrates Gullah heritage.
