Top 5 Black-Owned Restaurants/ Eateries To Visit In Philadelphia

Image: A collage of Philadelphia restaurants, top left: Down North Pizza, middle left: Suya Suya Philly, bottom: 48th Street Grille, top right: Booker’s Restaurant and Bar, bottom right: South Jazz Kitchen

Philadelphia famously nicknamed the “city of Brotherly love” is not just known for its historic sites and landmarks that guide visitors through the rich history of the Declaration of American Independence and the struggle for emancipation from slavery, it is also home to a potpourri of delicacies that highlights the rich tapestry of the diverse cultures and ethnicities that gives the city its allure and vibrancy.

Among the many restaurants and eateries, welcoming visitors and residents with mouth-watering aromas that promise a rich culinary experience are Philadelphia’s Black-owned restaurants that serve up dishes that showcase the diverse cultural heritage that Philadelphia is known for.

Here’s a look at 5 Black-owned restaurants and eateries in Philadelphia to visit when next you are in town and desire to treat your taste buds to the rich flavors of Philadelphia.

Booker’s Restaurant and Bar

An African American female bartender mixing drinks

Image Source: Bookers Restaurant and Bar

Located at 5021 Baltimore Avenue,
Philadelphia, PA 19143, Booker’s Restaurant and Bar not only offer exceptional meals, they also offer guests the opportunity to experience the beauty of Philadelphia. Situated right at the heart of the city, the restaurant offers a menu that caters to the culinary needs of every guest.

Whether you are a meat lover, vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free enthusiast, Booker Restaurant allows you to indulge your taste buds. With a large event space to accommodate seated guests, the restaurant is a go-to-stop for planning events that require well-spaced seating arrangements.

As part of its service offerings, Booker Restaurant provides its guests with live music performances which adds color and enriches the experience of dining in such an establishment.
(book a reservation by visiting their site – https://bookersrestaurantandbar.com/)

South Restaurant and Jazz Club

The Steve Turre Sextet with special guest Andromeda Turre performing on stage at South Restaurant and Jazz Club.

Source: Instagram | South Jazz Kitchen

What better way to enjoy the soothing flow of Jazz music while relishing the delicious taste of fried chicken, fresh baked cornbread, creamy sweet potato cheesecake, and rich bread pudding than to explore what the southern part of Philadelphia has to offer by visiting the South Restaurant and Jazz Club.

As Philadelphia’s popular Jazz club, the restaurant offers visitors a combined experience of traditional and modern dishes all with a touch of southern magic. Not only can diners make reservations, but they also can enjoy the southern cool breeze in the garden courtyard. 

The Jazz club enjoys a rich history of several jazz artists and talented musicians to have graced its stage. With a promise of a rich ensemble array of talented musicians, guests are promised a rewarding experience while dining at the South Restaurant and Jazz Club.
(book a reservation by visiting – https://www.southjazzkitchen.com/)

48th Street Grille

Image Source: Google | 48th Street Grille

If you are desirous of enjoying a taste of the Caribbean, then 48th Street Grille is the place for you. Serving an array of American and Caribbean cuisines, with a rich mix of wine, beer, and champagne, the restaurant brings meaning to the word “soul food”.

Located at 310 s 48th St Philadelphia PA 19143, 48th Street Grille offers not just exclusive dining reservations but also provides outdoor catering services for all occasions. Customers are also allowed to order online.Crucial to its success as a restaurant for fine dining is the influence that Chef Carl, whose years of experience catering to the palette needs of Philadelphia’s government officials amongst others, has brought to bear on the top-quality dining experience that the restaurant offers.
(book a reservation by visiting their site – https://48thstreetgrille.com/)

Suya Suya West African Grill

Image: Google | Suya Suya West African Grill

From the shores of Nigeria, this popular street food dish made of spiced smoked skewered meat is a crowd favorite for all.  Located in Northern Liberties, this restaurant also offers an array of plantains, cornbread, rice, shrimp, and steak. 

As an addition to its Nigerian heritage, the restaurant also offers diners and opportunity to taste the famous Zobo drink. Made from Hibiscus-ginger tea, this drink is packed with rich healthy nutrients.
(book a reservation by visiting their site – https://www.suyasuya.co/)

Down North Pizza

Image: Down North Pizza

Not only do they offer up delicious mouth-watering pizzas, chicken wings, fries, and wholesome shakes, but they also give back to the community by offering equal opportunities to all with the right skill set seeking to make a living for themselves.

Located in North Philadelphia, Down North Pizza prides itself on providing quality food while offering a stellar customer experience to all who dine at its location.

Offering an array of menus that cater to specific needs and interests, Down North Pizza is your one-stop place to visit if you are eager to find dishes that are not only pocket-friendly but delightfully satisfying.

Okechukwu Nzeribe works with the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and loves unveiling the richness of African cultures. okechukwu.onicima@gmail.com