Houston’s culinary scene is as diverse as its populace, and black-owned restaurants contribute significantly to this richness. From the Museum District to Broadway St., these top-rated establishments offer a vibrant gastronomic journey that mirrors Houston’s cultural tapestry.
You’ll find everything from soul food to Caribbean delights, each restaurant serving up unique flavors that tell a story of heritage and passion.
Black Owned Restaurants Houston: Unearth Top Picks in the City
Houston is a haven for foodies. Its black-owned restaurants offer a unique blend of flavors that you can’t miss.
The Breakfast Klub
The Breakfast Klub tops our list. Famous for its wings and waffles, it’s a breakfast hotspot in Houston. You’ll love their hearty meals that keep customers coming back.
- Specialty: Wings and Waffles
Lucille’s
Next up is Lucille’s, known for its Southern comfort food with a twist. Their chili biscuits are to die for!
- Specialty: Chili Biscuits
Cool Runnings Jamaican Grill
For Caribbean flavors, head to Cool Runnings Jamaican Grill. Their jerk chicken is the talk of the town.
- Specialty: Jerk Chicken
Esther’s Cajun Cafe & Soul Food
Esther’s Cajun Cafe & Soul Food serves mouth-watering cajun dishes. It offers an authentic taste of Louisiana right here in Texas.
- Specialty: Cajun Dishes
Reggae Hut
Reggae Hut brings you authentic Jamaican cuisine with a cozy vibe. Try their curry goat; it’s simply delicious!
- Specialty: Curry Goat
Sunshine’s Health Food Store and Vegetarian Deli
If you’re into healthy eating, Sunshine’s Health Food Store and Vegetarian Deli has got your back! They serve tasty vegetarian dishes that even meat-lovers will enjoy.
- Specialty: Vegetarian Dishes
Burns Original BBQ
Craving some BBQ? Burns Original BBQ won’t disappoint! Known for their juicy ribs and brisket, it’s a BBQ lover’s paradise.
- Specialty: Ribs and Brisket
Frenchy’s Chicken
Frenchy’s Chicken is a Houston classic. Serving up crispy chicken with Creole flavors, it’s finger-licking good!
- Specialty: Creole Flavored Chicken
Gatlin’s BBQ
Gatlin’s BBQ offers mouth-watering smoked meats that will leave you wanting more. Their pulled pork sandwich is a must-have!
- Specialty: Pulled Pork Sandwich
Mikki’s Cafe Soul Food
Last but not least, Mikki’s Cafe Soul Food serves traditional soul food that warms the heart. Their smothered turkey wings are a crowd favorite.
- Specialty: Smothered Turkey Wings
Unveiling Frenchy’s Chicken and Mico’s Hot Chicken
A Peek at Frenchy’s Famous Recipe
Frenchy’s Chicken is a household name in Houston. Their fried chicken recipe is legendary.
You might wonder, what’s the big deal about fried chicken? Well, it ain’t just any fried chicken.
Frenchy’s serves up Cajun-infused crispy goodness that’ll make your taste buds dance a jig. Picture this: juicy chicken marinated in spicy Cajun sauce, then deep-fried to golden perfection.
The result? Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside. Just like your grandma would make if she was from New Orleans.
But wait, there’s more! They also serve savory sides like dirty rice and crawfish étouffée. Talk about a full-on feast!
Digging into Mico’s Hot Chicken
Next stop, Mico’s Hot Chicken. This ain’t your regular food truck; it’s a culinary sensation on wheels.
Mico’s took Nashville-style hot chicken and put their own spin on it. The secret? It’s all in the spice blend.
Their menu offers various heat levels for every spice lover out there. From “no heat” to “extra hot,” they’ve got you covered.
And let me tell you about their signature dish – hot chicken waffle sandwich! Imagine fluffy waffles acting as buns for crunchy hot chicken strips drizzled with syrup… Yum!
Highlighting Vegan Delights: Soul Food Vegan
Soul Food Vegan is a gem among the black-owned restaurants in Houston. Let’s dive into their enticing plant-based menu and commitment to healthy, flavorful food.
A Plant-based Paradise
The first thing you’ll notice about Soul Food Vegan is their impressive array of plant-based options. This ain’t your typical vegan joint, folks! They’ve taken traditional southern classics and given them a healthy twist.
- Their oxtail burger? All vegan.
- The collard greens? Yep, vegan too.
- And the gumbo? You guessed it – 100% plant-based.
You might be thinking, “But what about the flavor?” Trust me when I say, you won’t miss the meat one bit!
Committed to Healthy and Flavorful Food
Soul Food Vegan isn’t just about being vegan – they’re committed to serving up delicious meals that are good for your body too. They believe that food should be more than just tasty; it should nourish you from the inside out.
They use fresh vegetables with every meal, ensuring you get all those essential nutrients without skimping on taste. Even the most die-hard carnivores have been known to rave about their dishes!
Upscale Dining at The Gripper Kitchen
A Fine Dining Option in Houston
The Gripper Kitchen is not just another restaurant in Houston’s dining scene. It’s a game-changer, offering an ultimate kitchen experience that takes the concept of fine dining to a whole new level.
Gourmet Menu Items in Elegant Ambiance
You’ll find unique dishes on their menu that are nothing short of culinary masterpieces. From succulent steaks and gourmet burgers to mouth-watering grilled cheese and savory grits, every dish is an explosion of flavors.
For those who love BBQ, their signature BBQ dishes are a must-try. And if you’re a fan of brunch, you’ll be spoilt for choice with options like the breakfast klub and better brews.
But it’s not just about the food. The elegant ambiance adds to your overall dining experience, making it truly unforgettable.
Accolades Received by The Gripper Kitchen
This isn’t just us raving about this place. The Gripper Kitchen has received multiple accolades for its exceptional cuisine and service. It’s been recognized as one of the best black-owned restaurants in Houston, which speaks volumes about its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Unique Experiences: Gatlin’s Fins and Feathers
A Fusion of Flavors
Gatlin’s Fins and Feathers is a black-owned restaurant in Houston that’s making waves. They’re serving up seafood with a southern twist. Imagine biting into crispy, golden fried catfish with a side of creamy grits or tangy collard greens.
Exclusive Vibes at Cleo Lounge Tapas
Cleo Lounge Tapas is a black-owned restaurant in Houston that stands out from the crowd. It’s all about an exclusive atmosphere and tapas-style menu here.
The Atmosphere and Menu at Cleo
Walk into Cleo, and you’ll be greeted by a warm, inviting vibe. This ain’t your regular joint; it’s a place that screams exclusivity but in a chill way.
The tapas-style menu is another thing to rave about. It’s like they’ve taken the city’s heart and soul, cooked it up, and served it on a platter.
A Different Vibe Indeed
Compared to other restaurants on this list, Cleo offers something different. It ain’t just about grabbing some grub; it’s about the experience too.
Here, you get to sip on killer cocktails while munching on delectable entrees. And let me tell ya’, their wine list is off the hook! There are options aplenty for everyone – whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just someone who enjoys a good drink now and then.
Popular Tapas Dishes According to Customers’ Reviews
Now let’s talk food – ’cause that’s what we’re here for, right? Based on customer reviews, there are some dishes that folks can’t stop yapping about.
- Chicken Tenders: These ain’t your average tenders. They’re crispy on the outside, juicy inside, with flavors that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
- Shrimp & Grits: Shrimp cooked just right with creamy grits – need I say more?
- Brisket Sliders: Smoky brisket tucked between soft buns – it’s comfort food at its best!
And don’t even get me started on their sides! Each one is a masterpiece in its own right.
So, if you’re looking for a place that offers more than just food – a place where you can soak in the city’s unique style while enjoying your meal, then Cleo Lounge Tapas is the address to note down. They are open till late pm, so whether it’s dinner or some late-night munchies – they’ve got you covered!
Encouraging Support for Nitram’s Kitchen, D’s Krazy Kitchen
Houston is a city of flavors. Let’s explore the culinary delights at Nitram’s Kitchen and 3D’s Krazy Kitchen.
Unique Offerings at Nitram’s Kitchen
Nitram’s Kitchen is not your average restaurant. It serves soul food with a twist, making it stand out in Houston’s bustling food scene. The menu offers everything from fried chicken to shrimp and grits, all cooked with love and passion.
- Fried Chicken: This dish isn’t just another fried chicken. It’s marinated overnight in special herbs and spices before being deep-fried to perfection.
- Shrimp & Grits: A southern classic done right. The shrimp are cooked in a flavorful sauce served over creamy grits.
Community Involvement of Nitram’s Kitchen
Nitram’s kitchen isn’t just about good food; they’re also heavily involved in the community. They regularly host charity events and donate a portion of their profits to local schools.
For example, they recently hosted a “Feed the Kids” event where they provided free meals to children from low-income families. This initiative earned them much respect among locals who appreciate businesses that give back to society.
3D’s Krazy Kitchen Delights
3D’s Krazy Kitchen has its own unique offerings that make it a must-visit spot for food lovers. Their fusion cuisine blends traditional African dishes with American comfort foods, creating an exciting dining experience.
- Jollof Rice & Chicken: A popular West African dish made with aromatic rice and tender chicken.
- Mac n’ Cheese: This ain’t your mama’s mac n’ cheese! It comes loaded with three types of cheese and baked until golden brown.
3D’s Krazy Kitchen Impacting Lives
3D’s Krazy kitchen also plays an active role in uplifting the community. They offer cooking classes where they teach people how to prepare healthy meals on a budget.
They’ve launched a mentorship program for young aspiring chefs. Through this program, they’ve helped many youngsters turn their passion for cooking into a career.
Supporting Local Businesses
Supporting local businesses like Nitram’s Kitchen and 3D’s Krazy Kitchen is crucial. It helps keep money within the community and creates jobs for locals.
Moreover, these restaurants add to the cultural diversity of Houston’s food scene by offering unique dishes you won’t find anywhere else. So next time you’re deciding where to eat, consider these black-owned restaurants in Houston.
Impact of Supporting Black-Owned Restaurants
Economic Benefits for the Community
Supporting black-owned restaurants in Houston, like Nitram’s Kitchen and 3D’s Krazy Kitchen, ain’t just about good grub. It’s also about boosting the local economy. Here’s why:
- Money spent at these joints often stays within the community.
- These businesses create jobs, reducing unemployment rates.
According to a report by Nielsen, black consumers have a buying power of $1.3 trillion annually. Imagine if a chunk of that was reinvested in black-owned businesses!
Promoting Diversity in the Culinary Scene
When we talk about food, we’re talking about culture too. And diversity? Well, that’s the spice of life!
- Black-owned restaurants introduce unique flavors and dishes.
- They break culinary monotony and enrich Houston’s food scene.
Ever tried soul food or Caribbean cuisine? If not, you’re missing out big time! These cuisines are deeply rooted in black culture and offer an explosion of flavors.
Cultural Preservation and Representation Matters
Black-owned restaurants do more than just serve lip-smacking meals; they tell stories.
- They preserve traditional recipes passed down generations.
- These eateries showcase the richness of black culture through food.
Curated List of Black Owned Restaurants in Houston:
Conclusion
Houston, Texas is a melting pot of cultures, and its food scene is no exception. The black-owned restaurants we’ve journeyed through are not just businesses; they’re a celebration of culture, resilience, and culinary excellence.
From the mouth-watering fried chicken at Frenchy’s to the unique flavors at Gatlin’s Fins and Feathers, these eateries tell a story that’s as rich as their menu. When you dine at these spots, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also contributing to the local economy and supporting diversity.
So why wait? Grab your friends or family, head out there and explore these gastronomic gems for yourself! Who knows? Your next favorite dish might be waiting for you at one of these spots!
Frequently Asked Questions
There are several highly rated black-owned restaurants in Houston including Frenchy’s Chicken, Mico’s Hot Chicken, Soul Food Vegan, The Gripper Kitchen and Gatlin’s Fins and Feathers.
Yes! Soul Food Vegan is one such restaurant that offers delicious vegan alternatives to traditional soul food dishes.
Absolutely! The Gripper Kitchen is known for its upscale dining experience with an exquisite selection of dishes.
Yes. Gatlin’s Fins and Feathers offers a unique seafood experience while Cleo Lounge Tapas provides an exclusive vibe with their tapas offerings.
One way to support is by dining at their establishments. You can also spread the word about these businesses on social media or write positive reviews about your experiences.
