Boston is a vibrant New England city containing a plethora of attractions appealing to both American and international tourists. It is known for its exciting sports culture, great arts and theater offerings and impressive culinary scene. The city is one of the most diverse in the nation, a fact most evident in its wide variety of restaurants serving different types of cuisines. Many of these eateries are Black-owned and operated, welcoming foodies from all over the diaspora and beyond. Here are six Black-owned Boston restaurants to visit on your trip to Beantown.
Restaurante Cesaria
This Cape Verdean eatery prides itself on serving high-quality, traditional food with impeccable service. The colorful ambiance features African wall art and bright murals. It’s a warm and welcoming compliment to the food. Adding to the authenticity of atmosphere, artists and musicians perform morna folk music. The whole experience makes you feel like you’ve been whisked away to the sunny African island nation.
Cafe Sauvage
From husband and wife Antoine and Anaïs Lambert comes this unique French bistro. Born and raised in France, the duo wanted to bring a taste of home to the States. Cafe Sauvage incorporates flavors from cuisines influenced by French food. You’ll notice influences from Moroccan, Italian, Tunisian, West African, Spanish and Vietnamese cuisine. Try the ratatouille lasagne or yassa chicken sandwich.
Darryl’s Corner Bar & Kitchen
A Beantown favorite, Darryl’s Corner Bar & Kitchen is the place to go for delectable Southern comfort food and soulful jazz music. The restaurant also offers signature cocktails and Sunday brunch buffet. In 2021, Boston Magazine dubbed the eatery home of the Best Southern and Soul Food in the city. Located in the South End neighborhood, its owner Nia Grace advocates and works towards equity in the city’s culinary scene. Visitors must try the Creole jambalaya or shrimp and grits.
Jamaica Mi Hungry
Chef Ernie Campbell fell in love with food as a young boy growing up in Jamaica watching his mother and sister cook. When he got older, he worked in the kitchens of resorts and hotels in Negril. After moving to the US in 2001, he longed for a taste of home, but soon realized there was not much Caribbean food to be found in Boston. In 2012, he began offering private chef services that would eventually lead to him creating his own restaurant, food truck and full-service catering business. Customers rave about the restaurant’s curry goat, coconut chicken and pulled jerk pork.
Mida
Mida, an Italian word translating to, “he gives me” serves traditional Italian fare made using fresh seasonal ingredients. Chef Douglass Campbell has over 15 years of experience working around the world in places, like Paris, New York and Thailand. This experience influences his culinary style and expertise in the kitchen. The restaurant has a location in South End as well as one in Newton.
Suya Joint
This sophisticated bar and lounge brings the exotic flavors of West Africa to Boston. The owner, Nigerian chef Cecelia Lizotte, came from a family of great cooks. Thus, she learned to create delicious meals as a youngster and further developed her skills over the years. Suya Joint prepares its food fresh from scratch and also seasons it to perfection using authentic Nigerian spices and herbs. Try the popular Ayamase stew, Suya kabobs or dry fried goat meat.