Dominek Tubbs' Guide to Black-Owned Eateries in Manhattan

NBHD Brulee

NBHD Brulee is a charming coffee shop located in the heart of Harlem near Strivers Row. It offers a unique blend of community spirit and exceptional coffee. Brulee has quickly become a favorite spot in Harlem, known for its welcoming atmosphere and high-quality offerings, including Shrimp Po'Boy. But NBHD Brulee is more than just a place to grab a quick drink. It's a space designed for patrons to stay awhile, immersing themselves in the warm community and culture that Harlem is known for.

Jerrell's BETR BRGR

I love visiting Jerrell's BETR BRGR, a fantastic late-night vegan burger joint in Manhattan's heart of SoHo. This cozy spot offers 100% plant-based options, including burgers, fries, chili, shakes, and soft serve, all made with oat milk. My go-to order never fails to delight my taste buds – the O.G. BETR BRGR with jalapenos and smoky, crispy bacon, paired with perfectly seasoned waffle fries and a delectable strawberry oat milkshake. It's a true vegan (non-vegan) paradise!

Jasmine's Caribbean Cuisine

Jasmine's Caribbean Cuisine is an inviting and vibrant restaurant in Restaurant Row's heart near bustling Times Square, New York City. This hidden culinary treasure promises an immersive and authentic Caribbean experience, offering diners vibrant flavors and colorful cocktails reminiscent of the tropical islands.

Ramen By Ra

Rasheeda Purdie's Ramen by Ra is a culinary sensation that beautifully blends Southern comfort with Japanese tradition. Launched in 2020 as a pop-up, it has evolved into a permanent fixture at The Bowery Market, marking its place as New York City's first Black and female-owned ramen shop. The heart of Ramen by Ra is its innovative "asa ramen" concept, inspired by the Japanese tradition of morning ramen.

File Gumbo Bar

Are you searching for a taste of New Orleans in New York City? Look no further than Filé Gumbo Bar in Tribeca. Chef and owner McCree brings his extensive travels and culinary explorations across the American South into the dishes, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Louisiana cooking. The restaurant's signature dish, Tiny's Gumbo, is named after McCree's grandfather and features a blend of shellfish and spices.

The Good Good

The Good Good" is one of Harlem's newest cocktail bars and restaurants, quickly becoming a favorite for many. I highly recommend making reservations. Picture a dimly lit space, with the perfect cocktail paired with items from a menu that draws upon their Caribbean heritage and the perfect playlists with some soulful tunes. They also offer brunch with remarkable options such as French toast, a stacked brunch sandwich, or the jerk mushroom and vegetable omelet.

Cloudy Donut Co

Cloudy Donut is a 100% vegan, small-batch gourmet donut shop in Brooklyn Heights and Nolita, New York City. As the first fully vegan donut store in NYC and the first Black-owned food and beverage business in these neighborhoods, Cloudy Donut offers a unique and inclusive experience. Customers can choose from a rotating selection of innovative flavors and classics each week.

FIELDTRIP Harlem

Fieldtrip has a total of three locations throughout Manhattan and you can find Chef JJ's mantra: "Rice is Culture" on site. The menu at Fieldtrip includes rice bowls, salads, and popular sides such as crab pockets and Nana's bread. There are plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options available, and they regularly add new items to the menu.

FieldTrip

Fieldtrip has a total of three locations throughout Manhattan and you can find Chef JJ's mantra: "Rice is Culture" on site. The menu at Fieldtrip includes rice bowls, salads, and popular sides such as crab pockets and Nana's bread. There are plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options available, and they regularly add new items to the menu.

FIELDTRIP Rockefeller Center

Fieldtrip has a total of three locations throughout Manhattan and you can find Chef JJ's mantra: "Rice is Culture" on site. The menu at Fieldtrip includes rice bowls, salads, and popular sides such as crab pockets and Nana's bread. There are plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options available, and they regularly add new items to the menu.

VINATERÍA

In 2013, Vinateria opened on what is known as Restaurant Row in the historic neighborhood of Harlem. The owner, Yvette Leeper-Bueno, has created a space where you can enjoy house-made pasta and indulge in Italian and Spanish-inspired dishes while pairing your meal with the perfect wine from her restaurant's comprehensive list, which emphasizes women-produced or managed brands.

Sugar Hill Creamery

In Harlem, Sugar Hill Creamery is a family-owned ice cream shop specializing in handmade, small-batch ice cream and non-dairy frozen desserts. They offer a delightful mix of traditional and innovative flavors, catering to ice cream enthusiasts and locals. Whether you're yearning for a classic scoop or excited to sample their latest seasonal creation, Sugar Hill Creamery always gives you a reason to keep coming back.

Lagos Restaurant and Lounge

Lagos Restaurant and Lounge is a West African fusion hotspot in the heart of Times Square. Known for its lively atmosphere and innovative menu, this establishment brings Nigerian flavors to Manhattan's dining scene. Lagos is perfect for both intimate dinners and energetic nights out. Experience the energy of West Africa through expertly crafted dishes and a sophisticated lounge setting right in New York City.

Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi

Tatiana is one of the most sought-after reservations in all of New York City. With a powerhouse and innovative chef like Chef Kwame Onwanchi, this restaurant will undoubtedly provide one of your most memorable dining experiences. Tatiana is affectionately named after his sister, and this restaurant, with Lincoln Center as its backdrop, is truly a love letter to New York City. It showcases a range that Kwame refers to as his Afro-Caribbean-by-way-of-the-Bronx heritage.

Harlem Biscuit Company

The perfect way to start a morning in Harlem is by visiting Harlem Biscuit Company, a beloved local eatery that brings Southern comfort to the heart of Harlem. Founded by Chef Melvin "Boots" Johnson, this popular spot specializes in mouthwatering biscuit sandwiches that blend traditional Southern flavors with a New York flair, whether you're craving a classic bacon, egg, and cheese with a Southern twist or looking to try one of their unique creations.

Melba's Restaurant

Renowned for its exceptional Southern-inspired cuisine and welcoming atmosphere, Melba's specializes in soul food classics with a modern twist in the heart of Harlem. The menu features favorites such as their famous chicken and waffles (which beat Bobby Flay's), unforgettable short ribs, and collard greens that taste like your momma made. The restaurant takes pride in using high-quality ingredients to create dishes that evoke the feeling of home-cooked meals.

Charles Pan-Fried Chicken

Charles Pan Fried Chicken, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Harlem, has been delighting the taste buds of New York City residents and visitors alike with its delectable Southern-style fried chicken since its establishment in 1990. With multiple locations throughout Manhattan, it will be easy to get your hands on their mouthwatering chicken or side dishes such as mac and cheese or black-eyed peas.

Scarr's Pizza

Scarr's Pizza is a gem in the Lower East Side, blending modern flavors with a retro pizzeria atmosphere. Known for grinding its own wheat daily to create a unique, fermented crust. The menu features standout items like the "Hot Boi" pizza, topped with pepperoni, jalapeños, and Mike's hot honey. With its 70s-inspired decor and arcade games, it's a cool spot for grabbing a quick slice or enjoying a leisurely meal.

Hav & Mar

Hav & Mar is a seafood restaurant situated in Chelsea, Manhattan. It provides a distinctive dining experience, emphasizing fresh and flavorful dishes. Chef Fariyal Abdullahi, who has been nominated for a James Beard award, leads the restaurant, blending innovative culinary techniques with high-quality ingredients to craft unforgettable meals.