Black History Month was established 50 years ago to honor the achievements of, and central role played by, Blacks in American history. One of the easiest ways to honor the history of Black Americans today is to shop at black-owned small businesses – many of which have had to overcome unique obstacles to get where they are.
In (what’s becoming) typical fashion, we’re honoring Black History Month by aligning with community partner, Intentionalist, in curating a list of ten local, black-owned small businesses.
So… if you’re celebrating Black History Month AND you plan on spending money somewhere (you’re going to spend money somewhere), spend intentionally; spend like it matters by visiting these 10 black-owned businesses:
Jerk Shack | Belltown
Trey Lamont’s Jerk Shack is a go-to for jerk-spiced everything, from chicken, to seafood, to mac and cheese. This Caribbean-inspired joint serves up all the classics you crave, like fried plantains, coleslaw, paw-paw salad, and slow-cooked jerk-spiced ribs.
Pro-tip: The signature jerk fried chicken is worth all of the hype. Read more>>
Marjorie | Capitol Hill
All are welcome at Marjorie, where owner Donna Moodie serves food to nurture community. The name pays tribute to Donna’s mother, celebrating her ability to bring people together to enjoy “scratch” cooking and warm hospitality. In need of a private dining room or event space? Marjorie is the perfect spot. Read more>>
City Sweats | Wallingford
Dee Alams pioneered infrared sweat therapy in Seattle, introducing the city’s first infrared sauna to her fitness studio in 2010. Over the years, Dee has witnessed incredible client transformations, and dreams to make infrared therapy more accessible and convenient for all. Read more>>
Flowers Just 4-U | Central District
In the early 1980s, Mary Wesley realized that there were no black florists in her community! So, she went back to school, acquired the necessary skills, and opened up Flowers Just 4-U, where she has been arranging flowers for all occasions since 1984. Read more>>
Salare | Ravenna
Nestled in the heart of Seattle’s Ravenna neighborhood, Eduardo Jordan’s Salare celebrates America’s diverse food culture by bringing you creative cuisines of the American South, Africa, Europe and the Caribbean. Read more>>
Footprint Wine Tap | Capitol Hill
When you’re getting a little existential about climate change on your third glass of wine, it’s comforting to know that at least you’re drinking sustainably. Owned by Kenneth Dillon, Footprint Wine Tap is Seattle’s first and only sustainable keg wine on-tap bar. Sourcing fine wines from the Pacific Northwest, they specialize in biodynamic and organic wines. From wine production and transport to the furnishings in their space, Footprint Wine Tap aims to reduce their carbon footprint on all fronts. Read more>>
Tougo Coffee | Yesler
“We brew stories” is the motto at Tougo Coffee, where owner Brian Wells has been creating community and coffee since 2007. The flagship Yesler location opened in 2019, and customers enjoy top-quality, ethically sourced coffee in a welcoming space where people of all ages gather and connect. Read more>>
Cortona Cafe | Central District
One of the few Black-owned businesses remaining in the rapidly changing Central District, Cortona Café is a neighborhood jewel. Friendly owner Isolynn “Ice” Dean prepares outstanding Herkimer coffee and mouth-watering waffles with the utmost warmth and care. Read more>>
Plum Bistro | Capitol Hill
From the endlessly creative mind of chef Makini Howell, Plum Bistro offers the ultimate upscale vegan dining experience. Vegans and non-vegans alike will be pleasantly surprised by dishes that push the boundaries of vegan cuisine, from comfort classics to innovative creations. Read more>>
Simply Soulful | Madison Valley
Owned by mother-daughter duo Barbara Collins & Lillian Rambus, Simply Soulful serves up authentic southern cooking in a relaxed and welcoming cafe atmosphere. What began as a small operation selling their famous Sweet Potato Pie has become community hub for delicious food and friendly service. Read more>>
To learn a little more about Black History Month check out the article by YP Media contributor, Alex Rushin, celebrating the months Semi-centennial. For a more comprehensive list of black-owned businesses in and around Seattle (you can sort by neighborhood), check out the Intentionalist.com website.
Also, join Intentionalist on February 27th for a Cheers to Black History Month event at Footprint Wine Tap.
