Washington's Best Black Owned Restaurants [Updated 2025]

Each of these twelve restaurants tells a unique story, blending culture and flavor in ways that will make your taste buds dance. I’ve tasted my way through kitchens, chatted with passionate chefs, and soaked in the vibrant atmospheres to bring you a curated selection that truly reflects the heart of our community.

Trust me, I know what I’m talking about—these spots aren’t just great places to eat; they’re experiences that celebrate heritage and culinary artistry. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you’ll want to bookmark this list—your next favorite meal is waiting just around the corner!

Georgia Brown's

Highlights
Warm welcoming atmosphere
Impressive service speed
Complimentary champagne for celebrations
Talented live jazz music

Georgia Brown's is truly a gem in the Washington dining scene, and my visit was nothing short of delightful. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I was enveloped in a warm welcoming atmosphere that immediately made me feel at home. The vibrant decor and friendly staff set the tone for a memorable evening.

I was particularly impressed by the service speed—as soon as I was seated, my server dashed over with a smile, ready to guide me through the mouthwatering menu. Speaking of mouthwatering, the Southern-inspired dishes are a true homage to the soul of Black cuisine. Each bite of the shrimp and grits transported me to the heart of the South, bursting with flavors that sang harmony in my mouth.

For those celebrating special occasions, the complimentary champagne adds a delightful touch, making every gathering feel festive. And as if the food and ambiance weren’t enough, talented jazz musicians serenaded us throughout the evening, creating an unforgettable soundtrack to our culinary journey.

In a city buzzing with culinary options, Georgia Brown's stands out as a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Black culture. I can’t wait to return!

You might also want to check out the best affordable restaurants in Georgetown Washington.

Kitchen Savages

Highlights
Outstanding flavor combinations
Quaint, intimate dining space
Timely service and delivery
Delicious dessert options
Friendly and attentive staff

Visiting Kitchen Savages in Washington felt like a delightful culinary adventure. From the moment I entered the quaint dining space, the warm ambiance welcomed me like an old friend. The decor is charming yet understated, allowing the outstanding flavor combinations of the dishes to take center stage.

I decided to try a variety of items from their menu, and let me tell you, each bite was a revelation. The fusion of flavors was not just delicious; it was bold and imaginative. Their meticulous attention to detail shines through every plate. Additionally, I was pleased to find that the service matched the high-quality food—friendly and attentive staff ensured a smooth experience.

And oh, the desserts! The sweet treats at Kitchen Savages are a must-try, providing a perfect ending to my meal. As someone who appreciates timely service, I was happy to find that my food arrived quickly, allowing me to savor every moment without delay.

In a city brimming with dining options, Kitchen Savages stands out as not just a restaurant but a celebration of culture and flavor. I wholeheartedly recommend it for anyone looking to explore the best of what Washington's black-owned eateries have to offer!

You might also want to check out the best gluten free restaurants in Washington.

Oohh's & Aahh's

Highlights
Delicious late-night food
Great staff experience
High prices for quality
Inconsistent order fulfillment
Convenient late hours

Oohh's & Aahh's in Washington is a delightful gem that brings the soul of Southern cuisine straight to the heart of the city. There’s something about the way the late-night menu glows that makes you feel instantly at home. The first bite of their fried chicken brings about an explosion of flavors that will make you say “Oohh!” while the perfectly seasoned mac and cheese will have you smiling from ear to ear—definitely deserving of an “Aahh!”

I must commend the staff; they are friendly and attentive, turning the dining experience into a warm interaction rather than just a meal. However, be prepared for the prices, as the quality speaks volumes and those flavors come at a premium. On occasion, I found my orders to be a bit on the inconsistent side, which dampened the experience slightly.

That said, if you’re looking for a spot to satisfy those late-night cravings, Oohh's & Aahh's is the place to be. It embodies the essence of comfort food with a unique twist. Try it once, and I’m sure you’ll be saying “Oohh’s & Aahh’s” for many nights to come!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast restaurants in Alexandria VA.

Puddin'

Highlights
Delicious bread pudding
Flavorful shrimp étouffée
Great service
Generous portion sizes
Must-try dessert options

Puddin' is an absolute gem that truly captures the essence of comfort food with a delightful twist. As I approached the restaurant, the delightful aroma of soul food wafted through the air, promising a culinary adventure. Right from the start, the service was impeccable; the staff exuded warmth and enthusiasm that instantly made me feel at home.

I delved into the shrimp étouffée, a dish bursting with flavor and packed with plump, perfectly cooked shrimp nestled in a rich and savory sauce. Each bite was a symphony of spices that transported me straight to New Orleans. But let me tell you, the real star of the show was the bread pudding. This dessert wasn’t just a side note; it was a glorious indulgence, soft and decadent with a heavenly drizzle of sauce that left me yearning for more.

What impressed me just as much as the food were the generous portion sizes that made sharing—or not—an easy choice. If you find yourself in Washington, don’t miss the chance to indulge your taste buds at Puddin'. You won’t be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best asian restaurants in Fairfax VA.

Ben's Next Door

Highlights
Great service
Delicious wings
Vibrant brunch atmosphere
Clean and chill ambiance
Extensive menu options

Ben's Next Door is a true gem in the heart of Washington, where the vibrant brunch atmosphere mixes seamlessly with the rich flavors of Southern cuisine. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted with a chill ambiance that made me feel right at home. The clean decor and inviting layout create an ideal spot for catching up with friends or enjoying a leisurely meal.

Now, let's talk about the food! The wings at Ben's are nothing short of spectacular—crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The extensive menu options made it tough to choose, but I found myself coming back for those signature wings on more than one occasion.

Not only was I impressed by the mouthwatering dishes, but the service was also top-notch. The staff members were friendly and attentive, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Whether you’re in for brunch or a cozy dinner, Ben's Next Door offers a perfect blend of great food and a welcoming environment. Trust me, this place deserves a spot on your must-try list if you're exploring the best black-owned restaurants in Washington!

You might also want to check out the best family restaurants in Washington.

Stan's DC Restaurant

Highlights
Friendly and inviting staff
Huge menu selection
Tasty onion rings
Quick drink service
Local legend atmosphere

Stan's DC Restaurant is a delightful gem that epitomizes the heart of Washington’s dining scene. From the moment I walked in, the friendly and inviting staff made me feel like I was part of the family. The huge menu selection left me both excited and slightly overwhelmed! As I perused the options, I couldn’t resist starting with their tasty onion rings—which, let me tell you, are nothing short of addictive.

I was pleasantly surprised by the quick drink service, which complemented my meal perfectly. I opted for a refreshing cocktail, and it arrived just in time to wash down the delicious offerings that soon followed. The whole atmosphere of Stan’s is infused with a local legend vibe that’s both nostalgic and invigorating. It’s not just a restaurant; it feels like a space where stories are shared and memories are made.

In conclusion, Stan's DC Restaurant isn't just about the food—it's about the experience. Whether you're a local or just visiting, make sure to stop by and indulge in the delightful flavors and warm ambiance. You’ll leave with a full stomach and a happy heart!

You might also want to check out the best chinese restaurant in Rockville MD.

St. James - Modern Caribbean

Highlights
Excellent flavor options
Attentive and friendly staff
Beautiful outdoor seating
Vegan-friendly choices
Crispy and well-seasoned crab

St. James - Modern Caribbean is a vibrant culinary gem that offers a delightful twist on Caribbean flavors right in the heart of Washington. As soon as I stepped through the door, I was enveloped by the rich aromas of spices and the warm, welcoming atmosphere created by the attentive and friendly staff. They made me feel right at home, providing recommendations that whetted my appetite.

One of the highlights was the outdoor seating, which perfectly complemented the laid-back Caribbean vibes. It felt like a mini-vacation in every bite! I dove into their crispy and well-seasoned crab – a dish that burst with flavor and transported me straight to the islands with every crunch.

Additionally, I was delighted to find that they offer vegan-friendly choices, catering to a variety of dietary needs while still celebrating the essence of Caribbean cuisine. The excellent flavor options kept me intrigued, making it hard to choose just one favorite.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, I wholeheartedly recommend St. James for an unforgettable dining experience. You’ll leave not just satisfied, but with a smile and stories to tell!

You might also want to check out the best casual restaurants in Washington.

Sweet Sweet Kitchen

Stepping into Sweet Sweet Kitchen felt like walking into a warm embrace. This cozy spot delights with its vibrant decor and the tantalizing aroma of soul food mingling in the air. I savored the Jamaican jerk chicken, tender and bursting with flavor, while the accompanying sides, like the creamy mac and cheese, were a revelation. The desserts, particularly the sweet potato pie, are dangerously addictive—perfectly spiced and oh-so-sweet. Service was friendly and attentive, adding to the inviting atmosphere. For those seeking an authentic experience infused with love and culture, Sweet Sweet Kitchen is an unmissable treasure in Washington!

You might also want to check out the best chinese restaurant in Arlington VA.

Charlene's Bar & Grille

Charlene's Bar & Grille is a delightful gem that captures the essence of comfort food with a vibrant twist. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a warm, inviting ambiance that feels like home. I indulged in their signature shrimp and grits, which was an explosion of flavors, perfectly complemented by a spicy kick. The house-made lemonade was a refreshing delight! The staff radiates positivity, making you feel like part of the family from the moment you arrive. For a taste of soulful cuisine in a lively atmosphere, Charlene's is a must-visit in Washington!

You might also want to check out the best thai restaurants in Washington.

Milk & Honey Express

Milk & Honey Express is a delightful culinary gem that truly captures the essence of soul food with a modern twist. From the moment I walked in, the warm ambience enveloped me, promising comfort and joy. Their signature chicken and waffles is a must-try, perfectly crispy and drizzled with maple syrup that dances on your taste buds. The friendly staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making you feel right at home. Don’t skip on the peach cobbler; it's the perfect sweet finish! For a taste of heart and heritage, this spot is an absolute must in Washington’s vibrant dining scene.

You might also want to check out the best chinese restaurant in Alexandria VA.

Hitching Post Restaurant

Tucked away in the vibrant heart of Washington, Hitching Post Restaurant is a culinary gem that serves up soul-soothing flavors. From the moment I entered, I was greeted with a warm atmosphere and the tantalizing aroma of southern comfort food. I savored their succulent fried chicken, which was perfectly crispy, paired with velvety mac and cheese that practically dances on the palate. The friendly staff made me feel right at home, embodying true Southern hospitality. If you're seeking a place that feeds the soul as much as the stomach, Hitching Post is a must-visit in the D.C. dining scene!

You might also want to check out the best french restaurants in Georgetown.

Roaming Rooster

Roaming Rooster is a delightful gem that truly knows how to elevate the humble chicken sandwich! From the moment I walked in, the vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff made me feel right at home. I opted for the signature fried chicken sandwich with their zesty Roaming Sauce, and it was an explosion of flavor—crispy, juicy, and oh-so-satisfying! The sweet potato fries were the perfect complement, adding a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this spot is a must-visit. If you're craving something delicious and uniquely crafted, Roaming Rooster is the place to be!

You might also want to check out the best family restaurants in Alexandria VA.