Every year, millions of people come to New York City from all over the world to enjoy the beautiful architecture, world-class museums, and great shopping. But if you’re coming to the city that never sleeps, you’re going to have to eat….right?
Suggested Reading
Luckily, there are lots of great restaurants and bars throughout the five boroughs that are more than worth the trip. If you need a little help deciding how you’ll eat your way around the city, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite Black-owned restaurants in the Big Apple that are sure to have something for everyone. Be warned, you’ll eat so well you may want to save your Uber money and walk back to your hotel instead.
Ashford & Simpson’s Sugar Bar
If you’re in the mood for brunch, check out Sugar Bar, a restaurant co-owned by the musical hit-making couple Nick Ashford and Valerie Simpson on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Menu items included in their Sunday afternoon special come with a complimentary mimosa, bellini or Bloody Mary. The menu also includes lunch and dinner options, including burgers, steaks, pasta entrees. And because it’s Ashford & Simpson’s restaurant, you know you’re going to get a side of serious live music with your meal.
Sweet Chick
Good food and a fun atmosphere is what you’ll find at Nas’ Sweet Chick, which has five locations around the city. Known for their chicken and waffles, the menu also includes items like sandwiches, wings and shrimp and grits. You can wash down all of that good food with one of their hip hop-inspired cocktails, like the Christopher Wallace, the Purple Drank, or our personal favorite, the Tiger, Tiger Woods Y’all.
Brooklyn Chop House
If you’re in the mood for steak, check out Brooklyn Chop House, owned by former hip-hop music executive Robert “Don Pooh” Cummins and David Thomas. Ironically, both of the NYC locations are located in Manhattan, but the food more than makes up for it.
Tatiana
After a show at Lincoln Center, make your way to Tatiana, a restaurant owned by well-known chef Kwame Onwuachi. Oxtail and crab rangoon, crispy eggplant curry and golden rum cake are just a few of the stars on this menu that is a treat for all of the senses.
The Good Good
Harlem has no shortage of great restaurants, including The Good Good, a cocktail bar and bistro that is inspired by the flavors of the neighborhood. Cod fish fritters, hot honey fried chicken and a jerk mushroom and vegetable omelet are just a few stars of the show.
Red Rooster
When you’re in Harlem, be sure to check out Red Rooster , owned by world-renowned chef Marcus Samuelsson. The menu includes delicious soul food options with a global twist, like fried catfish and sweet potato coconut soup.
Aunts et Uncles
If you’re looking for a vegan friendly menu options, check out Aunts et Uncles, a Brooklyn plant-based restaurant. The menu includes a variety of salads, bowls and sandwiches that are so delicious, you won’t even miss the meat.
Hav & Mar
After visiting Red Rooster, you’re going to want a little more of Marcus Samuelsson’s cooking. Head to Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood to check out his newest NYC restaurant, Hav & Mar. Seafood is the focus at this spot, which serves, lunch, dinner and bar bites.
If you have room for dessert, be sure to check out the rotating menu of seasonal sorbets and ice creams.
Coffee Uplifts People
When in Brooklyn, grab a cup of coffee at Coffee Uplifts People, a cute Bed-Stuy cafe co-founded by popular radio personality Angela Yee. The menu includes a variety of coffee drinks, teas, pastries and sandwiches. And when the sun goes down, you can enjoy happy hour cocktails and great music.
Ramen by Ra
There’s no better way to warm up on a cold winter day in New York City than with a trip to Ramen by Ra, the first Black woman-owned ramen shop in America. The East Village eatery is owned by celebrity stylist-turned-chef Rasheeda Purdie.
Je T’aime Patisserie
Start your day with a fresh baked pastry from Je T’aime Patisserie in Brooklyn. Owner and pastry chef Jatee Kearsley has been baking since she was a kid, and puts her special twist on French classics every day. Trust us, you haven’t lived until you’ve had a red velvet croissant.
Make My Cake
Don’t leave the city without grabbing a slice of cake from Make My Cake Bakery in Harlem. German Chocolate, carrot and red velvet are just a few of the classic flavors you can grab by the slide.
Straight From 
Sign up for our free daily newsletter.
