The Absolute Best Black Owned Restaurants in Manhattan [Updated 2024]

In a city known for its diverse culinary scene, Manhattan is home to a thriving community of black owned restaurants that offer not only incredible food, but also a vibrant cultural experience. With the privilege of immersing myself in this culinary world, I have had the pleasure of reviewing twelve exceptional establishments, each with their own unique flair and flavor.

From soul food classics that transport you to the heart of the South, to exquisite Caribbean fusion cuisine that tantalizes the taste buds, this guide will showcase the very best that Manhattan's black owned restaurants have to offer. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other!

BLVD Bistro NY

Highlights
Great live performances
Amazing fried catfish
Excellent service
Incredible stuffed salmon
Delicious banana bread pudding

The moment I stepped into BLVD Bistro NY, I was immediately greeted by the upbeat atmosphere and the sounds of lively live performances. The restaurant had a cozy and welcoming vibe that made me feel right at home.

Now let's talk about the food, because boy, was it good! My taste buds did a happy dance when I took a bite of their amazing fried catfish. The batter was light and crispy, and the fish was tender and perfectly seasoned. It was absolute perfection.

But the food wasn't the only highlight of my visit. The service at BLVD Bistro NY was top-notch. The staff was attentive, friendly, and made sure I had everything I needed throughout my meal. It's always a pleasure when a restaurant goes above and beyond in providing excellent customer service.

Another standout dish at BLVD Bistro NY was the incredible stuffed salmon. The salmon was cooked to perfection and filled with a flavorful stuffing that elevated the dish to a whole new level. It was a true delight for my taste buds.

To end my meal on a sweet note, I couldn't resist trying their delicious banana bread pudding. The combination of warm, gooey bread pudding and the subtle sweetness of bananas was a match made in dessert heaven.

In conclusion, BLVD Bistro NY is a gem among the black owned restaurants in Manhattan. With great live performances, amazing fried catfish, excellent service, an incredible stuffed salmon, and delicious banana bread pudding, it has all the makings of a fantastic dining experience. Don't miss out on the chance to indulge in their delightful offerings.

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Melba's Restaurant

Highlights
Flavorfully delicious food
Oxtails and A$AP yams
Friendly and accommodating staff
Artwork and old school R&B vibes
Memorable birthday celebration

Walking into Melba's Restaurant, I immediately sensed a warm and inviting atmosphere. The aroma of flavorfully delicious food filled the air, making my taste buds tingle with anticipation. As I perused the menu, one dish caught my attention - the famed Oxtails and A$AP yams combo.

The staff at Melba's were not just friendly but also incredibly accommodating, taking the time to explain the menu options and offer suggestions. Their passion for their work was evident, making me feel like a valued guest from the moment I walked through the door.

The restaurant itself was adorned with beautiful artwork and had an old school R&B vibe, transporting me back to a time when soulful melodies filled the air. It was the perfect backdrop for a delicious meal and a memorable dining experience.

One particular highlight of my visit was the birthday celebration happening at the next table. The staff went above and beyond to make it special, bringing out a scrumptious cake accompanied by a lively rendition of "Happy Birthday."

Overall, dining at Melba's Restaurant was a delightful experience. From the incredible food to the friendly staff and the vibrant ambiance, it is certainly a gem among the best black owned restaurants in Manhattan. I highly recommend giving it a try and indulging in a taste of soulful cuisine.

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Spaha Soul

Highlights
Special Experience
Meticulous Plating
Delicious Food
Welcoming Owner
Relaxing Ambiance

When I stepped into Spaha Soul, I immediately knew it was going to be a special experience. The ambiance was warm and inviting, with soft music playing in the background and the delightful aroma of soul food filling the air.

The attention to detail in every aspect of the restaurant was impressive. From the meticulous plating to the beautifully decorated walls, it was evident that they took pride in every dish they served.

Now, let's talk about the food – oh my, it was delicious. Each bite was a burst of flavors that danced on my taste buds. Whether it was the perfectly seasoned fried chicken, the creamy mac and cheese, or the mouthwatering candied yams, every dish was a true delight.

What made my experience even more memorable was the welcoming owner. She greeted me with a big smile and made sure I felt like a valued guest throughout my entire meal. She even took the time to explain the inspiration behind each dish, which added an extra layer of appreciation to my dining experience.

Overall, Spaha Soul is a hidden gem in Manhattan that deserves to be on the list of the best black owned restaurants. With its relaxing ambiance, meticulous plating, and delicious food, a visit to Spaha Soul is a must for anyone looking to indulge in amazing soul food while supporting a black-owned business.

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The Edge Harlem

The Edge Harlem in Manhattan was an absolute treat! This restaurant's playful yet professional vibes were contagious, and the food was out of this world. The bold flavors, like their succulent jerk chicken and creamy mac and cheese, left me wanting more. The Edge Harlem definitely earns its place on the list of the best black owned restaurants in Manhattan!

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Home Sweet Harlem

Home Sweet Harlem is an absolute delight, serving up soulful goodness that will make your taste buds dance. With dishes like their savory shrimp and grits, and their finger-licking fried chicken, this cozy restaurant brings the flavors of the South right to Manhattan. Don't miss out on their heavenly red velvet waffles for a truly indulgent treat!

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NOHA NYC

Straightforward yet innovative, NOHA NYC delivers bold flavors and vibrant dishes that will leave you craving more. From their mouthwatering fried chicken to their creamy mac and cheese, every bite is a culinary adventure. With a cozy atmosphere and friendly service, NOHA NYC is a hidden gem you don't want to miss!

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Massawa

I have to say, dining at Massawa was a flavorful adventure! From the moment I stepped in, the vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff made me feel right at home. The menu offered a delightful variety of authentic Eritrean and Ethiopian dishes that left my taste buds dancing with joy. The injera, a spongy Ethiopian bread, was an absolute showstopper, perfectly complementing the fragrant stews and spicy lentils. Each bite was like a burst of culture on my palate. The portions were generous, and the prices were fair for the quality and quantity of food served. I can confidently say that Massawa is a gem in Manhattan's dining scene, where you can savor the rich flavors of East Africa.

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Pig & Butter

Pig & Butter in Manhattan is a playful and professional black owned restaurant that left me craving for more. The combination of succulent pork dishes and rich buttery flavors was a match made in culinary heaven. The chef's mastery in blending ingredients created a sensational dining experience. Run, don't walk, to Pig & Butter for a taste of their mouthwatering creations.

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Filé Gumbo Bar

I eagerly stepped into Filé Gumbo Bar in Manhattan, ready to embark on a culinary adventure. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff immediately put me at ease. The menu, brimming with soulful Louisiana flavors, had me salivating with anticipation. The gumbo, oh the gumbo! Bursting with richness and a spicy kick, it transported me straight to the heart of New Orleans. As I savored every succulent bite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the diverse range of black owned restaurants that grace Manhattan's culinary scene. Filé Gumbo Bar will surely leave you satisfied and yearning for more.

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Miss Mamie's Spoonbread Too

Miss Mamie's Spoonbread Too in Manhattan is an absolute delight for your taste buds! This black owned gem offers a playful yet professional dining experience. The soulful flavors and hospitality will have you saying "Daaaang!" after every bite. Don't miss out on their signature spoonbread, it's unforgettable.

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Red Rooster Harlem

I must say, dining at Red Rooster Harlem was like taking a flavorful trip to culinary heaven. The vibrant atmosphere, soulful music, and exceptional service elevated the whole experience. Every bite of the amazing Southern-inspired dishes left me yearning for more. This place definitely deserves a spot on the list of best black owned restaurants in Manhattan.

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Queen of Sheba

Located in Manhattan, Queen of Sheba is a hidden gem for those seeking an authentic Ethiopian dining experience. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making you feel like you've stepped into a little corner of Ethiopia. The menu boasts a variety of flavorful dishes, meticulously prepared with traditional ingredients and spices. Their injera (a sourdough flatbread) is an absolute delight, perfect for scooping up the rich stews and fragrant sauces. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, providing excellent service. Queen of Sheba is a must-visit for any food lover looking to explore the vibrant flavors of Ethiopia in the heart of Manhattan.

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