Black Owned Restaurants In Seattle
On the last day of Black History Month, I wanted to share a few of my favorite black owned restaurants and cafes in the greater Seattle area.
Boon Boona
This establishment not only sources the finest coffee, from the birthplace of coffee but has managed to create space for many communities. They regularly have food pop-ups, musicians, artists, and poets. On weekends, they have coffee ceremony sessions to give the community a taste of the traditional coffee ceremonies that is an essential social occasion for many tribes in East Africa.
Plum Bistro
Located in the capitol hill neighborhood of Seattle, Plum is one of the most recognized vegan restaurants in the city. With its chic ambiance and fine service, it’s the perfect spot for a brunch date with your girlfriends or a romantic date. I highly recommend you try their most famous Spicy Cajun Mac & Yease, it is quite tasty.
Wonder Bar
In all honesty, the best Ethiopian food I will ever have is the food my mom makes at home. However, this restaurant, with it’s serving of Derek Tibs(beef stir fry) and Kitfo(beef tartar) comes close. I like to go on the weekends because they sometimes have Kocho, which is a type of bread traditionally served with Kitfo. If you are in the mood for wot(Ethiopian/Eritrean versions of stew), I suggest you try the Asa(fish) Gulash.
Bantaba African Restaurant
This is one of the few West African restaurants in the Pacific North West. They serve a selection of Gambian and Senegalese dishes. The most popular things on the menu are the Afra Chicken/Lamb Beef/Chicken, Yassa Chicken, Battered Deep Fried Fish which all can be served with a side of Jollof. You should also try some of the meat pies and plantains. I tried the Benachin-a popular Gambian dish- with stuffed fish and it was really good.
Juba
Arguably the best Somali restaurant in town, this family-owned eatery offers a range of East African dishes. My favorite thing on the menu is Beef Suqaar which they have available with chicken as well. I also love their Barris( Somali style rice) that is served with the Suqaar. If you’re lucky you also might be able to order their sambuas but they are mostly available during Ramadan- a religious fast observed by Muslims worldwide.
JuneBaby
If you are looking for an upscale Southern food spot, this is the place for you. Chef Edouardo Jordan has created a unique experience for those interested in a fine dining soul food experience. I like to go on the weekends since my favorite thing on the menu, the fried chicken with a crunchy thick batter, is only served on Sundays. I also recommend the biscuits as well as the Shrimp & Grits.
Cafe Soleil
With a chic interior and abundant natural light, this cute corner cafe in Madrona is one of my favorites. The food selection is unique with an American breakfast brunch and Ethiopian style dinner. If I had to pick a favorite on their brunch menu it would be a toss-up between the basil, tomato & parmesan frittata or the wild smoked salmon frittata. Their dinner menu has some options like the eggplant tomato alitcha wot and ginger shirp alitcha wot that are not commonly found at most authentic Ethiopian restaurants.
Pam’s Kitchen
Formerly located in the U district area of Seattle, this restaurant now has a new location in Wallingford. This was my go-to spot in college, it made me feel at home and I appreciated the friendly staff. I am not the biggest fan of chicken but I do enjoy the jerk chicken sandwich on the menu. The roti is also very flavorful and pairs well with any of the Trini curry options.
Simply Soulful
The selection of traditionally prepared southern food options make Simply Soulful the comfort food restaurant of choice for many of my friends. This mother-and-daughter-run cafe is located in the Madison Valley area of Seattle. The chicken and waffles are the most popular items on the menu. Based on my personal experiences at this spot, I urge you to exercise patience since the food makes it worthwhile.
Safari Njema Restaurant
As one of the few Kenyan restaurants in the city, this is where I go to get my Madiazi fix. Jane, the owner, and the head chef always greets her customers with the brightest smile. I like to order some chai which they serve in a large beer mug, Samaki-Deep-fried Tilapia served with coconut sauce, Ugali, Sukuma mix(collard greens and spinach) and Chapati(Kenyan) flatbread.
La Teranga
As a lover of Senegalese jollof, of course, I had to put La Teranga on my list. This tiny five-table restaurant located in Colombia city is one of the few West African restaurants in the city. The national dish of Senegal- Thiebou Djeun- a savory rice and fish stew dish, is a must-try here.
Cafe Avole
Named after the first and strongest cup of coffee in the Ethiopian traditional coffee ceremony, this cafe gives customers an opportunity to experience Ethiopian coffee traditions. My favorite items on the menu are the tibs panini and the ful-fava beans served with green onions, tomatoes and cheese.
Mojito
Located in the Maple Leaf neighborhood of Seattle, this restaurant serves dishes that are heavily influenced by Latin American culture. Your options include Vaca Frita- a traditional Cuban dish or Pabellon- a Venezuelan dish. You can pair your food with their famous mojitos. If you are lucky you might even go on a day where they have live music.
Island Soul Rum Bar & Soul Shack
This family-run restaurant serves soul food with Caribbean flair in the heart of historic Columbia City. The menu features recipes from Louisiana and Jamaica that have been passed down through generations. The restaurant is always busy so sitting and service can be slow at times but the calypso or habanero wings and plantains make it worthwhile.