18 BEST Black Owned Restaurants Brooklyn NY (Too Much Great Food!)

If you’re taking a trip to New York City, prepare yourself for an onslaught of culinary delight. The city can be overwhelming the first time you’re there, and you can find an endless number of spots to choose from for a meal. If you are looking to support Black business owners while getting your foodie fix, you’ve come to the right place.

Brooklyn has an incredible amount of culture and unique experiences, but the one thing that really stands out in Brooklyn is the amazing variety in culinary delights. In particular, Black-owned restaurants in Brooklyn bring such a wide array of talent and cultural fusion that it’s difficult to find a more diverse smattering of dining options anywhere else on the planet.

We pulled together a list of the best Black-owned restaurants in the Brooklyn area. From Southern comfort food, to American soul food, to Caribbean inspired and Asian fusion, there’s something on this list for everyone. Here are the top 20 Black-owned restaurants that we could find, based on Yelp reviews.

For an unforgettable experience, consider hiring a New York limo service to take you to the best restaurants in the area.

1. Charm Bar & Restaurant

Address: 448 Dean St, Brooklyn, NY 11217 | Phone Number: (347) 799-2345

This is one of the newest additions to the Park Slope area of Brooklyn. Charm is located directly across from Barclay’s Center in a great central location.

What To Eat At Charm Bar & Restaurant

The Caribbean inspired dishes are superb and one-of-a-kind. The lamb chops with truffle Parmesan mashed potatoes are mouth-watering. 

The pineapple and coconut fried rice is a unique twist on a fan favorite. The truffle Parmesan fries are so good they could pair with basically anything on the menu. It’s hard to go wrong with anything on this menu, but if you haven’t had Caribbean food before you might need to step outside your comfort zone a bit.

Why Should You Eat Here?  

Superb signature cocktails and eclectic Caribbean cuisine directly across from Barclay’s Center, right in the heart of Brooklyn. The restaurant has a romantic vibe and is the perfect intimate setting for two. The space is large enough to host larger groups, birthday get-togethers, or small family gatherings as well.

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Stewed Oxtail
Cuisine: Caribbean, American (new), Cocktail Bars

2. Lucky’s Cocktail Lounge

Address: 334 Marcus Garvey Blvd, Brooklyn, NY 11221 | Phone Number: (347) 529-3537

Located in an upscale Brooklyn neighborhood, Lucky’s is the perfect place for small plates and cocktails. A tapas bar and cocktail lounge in one.

What To Eat At Lucky’s Cocktail Lounge

Lucky’s is known for its sliders and truffle fries, as well as its catfish. They prepare catfish a number of different ways, so there’s a good chance you’ll be able to try a new twist on the fish. 

The crab cakes are moist and succulent, their wings are meaty and flavorful, and the beef skewers are perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Definitely try the cauliflower arancini, if you have any room left.

Why Should You Eat Here?  

The bar makes incredibly signature cocktails, as well as great renditions of classic cocktails. Their paloma is fan favorite. Enjoy brunch, lunch, or dinner in either an intimate setting for two or in one of their larger seating areas. 

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟½
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Catfish
Cuisine: Tapas Bars, Cocktail Bars

Related Read: 35 Romantic Outings in New York City

3. Bistro So

Address: 530 Driggs Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211 | Phone Number: (929) 337-6644

An unimposing and cute French restaurant and wine bar. Located in the Williamsburg neighborhood close by to music and theater venues.

What To Eat At Bistro So

For dinner, check out the Steak au Poivre, a traditional French dish featuring a hangar steak with a green peppercorn sauce and a side of truffle fries. Try the French onion soup or escargots for an appetizer. 

For brunch, you absolutely must have the crepes. They offer a variety of options, both savory and sweet to appeal to whatever mood you’re in.

Why Should You Eat Here?  

The perfect stop as part of a date night out on the town. The restaurant has a rather large footprint on a corner lot, with a big outdoor patio seating area in the back. The menu features authentic French dishes and has a great atmosphere.

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Mussels in Poulette Sauce
Cuisine: French, Brasseries

4. Zanmi

Address: 1206 Nostrand Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11225 | Phone Number: (718) 676-1047

Zanmi is mainly known for its unique, flavor-packed sandwiches and Caribbean dining room vibe. The restaurant is just a few blocks away from Prospect Park.

What To Eat At Zanmi

The Voodoo Pasta is by far the most popular dish on the menu and is packed full of flavor and shrimp. The Plantain Submarine is a unique dish you won’t find anywhere else. Try out one of the mix and match boxes that allow you to sample from different types of cuisine. 

Why Should You Eat Here?  

Enjoy an evening stroll in the park followed by a nice meal. Indulge in one of the many Haitian and Caribbean fusion offerings on their menu. Many items are difficult to find anywhere else, even in New York City, making Zanmi a one-of-a-kind experience.

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟½
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Voodoo Pasta
Cuisine: Haitian, Tapas/Small Plates

Related Read: 30 Things To Do in Long Island

5. Peaches HotHouse

Address: 415 Tompkins Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216 | Phone Number: (718) 483-9111

Southern comfort with a casual dining experience. Peaches HotHouse is owned by two guys who started with hope and a dream, determined to bring quality Southern style cooking to the big city.

What To Eat At Peaches HotHouse

Their Nashville Style Hot Chicken is what made them famous, and you absolutely must try it. If spicy isn’t really your thing, you can still get some good eats here - make sure to ask if the kitchen will dial it down for you, because there’s a lot of spice and flavor coming out. 

Their shrimp and grits are to die for. If you enjoy a bit of heat with your flavor, this menu is packed with options. Their Louisiana Gumbo is the best gumbo you’ll find this side of the Mississippi River.

Why Should You Eat Here?  

From the handcrafted bar, to the Southern feel of a clapboard kitchen, walking into Peaches HotHouse will leave you feeling like you walked into a family-owned restaurant in New Orleans.  Cocktails are served in adorable mason jars, topping off the Southern charm and ambiance. Located on Tompkins ave, Peaches is surrounded by things to do to make a perfect night out.

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Nashville Style Hot Chicken
Cuisine: Southern, American (traditional)

6. Stella’s

Address: 559 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215 | Phone Number: (347) 689-2367

Located just a few blocks west of Prospect Park in Brooklyn. Dine in for either brunch or dinner.

What To Eat At Stella’s

The menu boasts a hefty selection of Jamaican and Caribbean-inspired options. There is nothing bland on this menu, so prepare for an explosion of flavor and spice with every bite. 

Try the Snapper Esovietch, if you’re looking for something fried. Or stick with the traditional Jamiacan meal of Braised Oxtail with Lima Beans. Stella’s also has some amazing seafood dishes and most of their side options are so good they could be a meal all on their own.

Why Should You Eat Here?  

Stella’s has a laid-back, casual vibe with incredible food, perfectly situated between Prospect Park and Gowanus Bay, in the northern part of the South Slope neighborhood. It’s a great place to try some Jamaican fare. Don’t forget to check out the impressive artwork around the restaurant before you leave.

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟½
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Stella’s Seafood Pot
Cuisine: Caribbean

7. Kokomo

Address: 65 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249 | Phone Number: (347) 799-1312

An artsy dining room situated on the eastern banks of NYC’s East River. The restaurant is located directly across from Marsha P. Johnson State Park.

What To Eat At Kokomo

Try one of their many flatbread options for an appetizer - the Wah Gwaan Flatbread with scotch bonnet cilantro sauce is amazing. Their dinner entrees are a variety of pastas, proteins, sandwiches, and some vegan options. 

For dessert, try the rum raisin bread pudding. Enjoy it all with a signature cocktail. If you’re dining in for brunch, check out the Caribbean Spiced Lamb: you won’t be disappointed!

Why Should You Eat Here?  

It’s a great location with a unique environment and a phenomenal menu - with a kitchen staff to back it all up. The perfect destination after a day of exploring Brooklyn and taking in the sights and sounds of the East River. 

Kokomo is open for breakfast, brunch, and dinner. Make sure to read through their menu to see what’s available as they do change it often.

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Red Peppa Jerk Chicken
Cuisine: Caribbean

Related Read: 20 BEST Soul Food Restaurants in the USA

8. Cornbread Brooklyn

Address: 409 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11216 | Phone Number: (718) 493-0010

Their slogan is “farm to soul”, and boy do they deliver. Give a little lift to your soul and mosey on over to Cornbread for some of the best comfort food you’ll find anywhere. Located just to the east of Prospect Park’s northern boundary.

What To Eat At Cornbread Brooklyn

They have, quite possible, the best fried chicken in all of Brooklyn. Of course, they have the best cornbread in all of NYC. Their catfish dinner is the best Southern soul food you’ll find anywhere north of the Mason-Dixon line. 

If you aren’t in the mood for fried food, the ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and covered in a homemade BBQ sauce you’ll want to buy jars of it to take home with you.

Why Should You Eat Here?  

Cornbread is set up much like a cafeteria style dining establishment, so you can skip the traditional server experience. The dining area is clean and comfortable, but the allure of Cornbread isn’t the ambiance or the service, it’s the food. Come with plenty of room as the portion sizes are huge and you’ll have a hard time deciding between the many different mouth-watering options. 

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Fried Chicken and Ribs
Cuisine: Southern, Soul Food

9. Cheryl’s Global Soul

Address: 236 Underhill Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238 | Phone Number: (347) 529-2855

Cheryl’s Global Soul is open for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and is a family-friendly atmosphere to enjoy some phenomenal soul food. A cozy cafe style restaurant located in the quaint Prospect Heights.

What To Eat At Cheryl’s Global Soul

For a mouthful of amazing flavor, go with the Moroccan Vegetable Tagine, a vegetarian dish packed with spices. Their classic Blackened Catfish is a great twist on a traditional soul food dish. 

They also offer a variety of bowls that offer a little bit of everything. The Tonkatsu Bowl with a panko breaded pork cutlet is amazing. For brunch, you can’t go wrong with the Brioche French Toast or the Pancakes with Crispy Fried Chicken.

Why Should You Eat Here?  

Affordable, expertly-prepared Southern style soul food with a menu that offers all the variety you’d want. Outdoor seating is available, and the environment is perfect for a family making a stop while exploring Brooklyn for the day. 

Their reviews are loaded with people who stopped by on a whim and became loyal customers over time. Once you eat here, it’ll be hard not to go back for seconds.

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Creole BBQ Jumbo Shrimp
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Soul Food

10. BKLYN Blend

Address: 194 Tompkins Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11206 | Phone Number: (718) 484-2247

An eclectic juice bar and health food store featuring custom blended beverages, smoothies, and juices. Rustic-chic space with Wi-Fi access.

What To Eat At BKLYN Blend

There is a huge array of juices, smoothies, and blends available on the menu. They have an endless number of ingredients they will juice for you, so take the time to look through the menu before stepping up to order. 

For food, try the Fountain Ave Falafel for a healthy sandwich. The Franklin Ave Frittata is an excellent choice for breakfast or brunch.

Why Should You Eat Here?  

BKLYN Blend began as a way for the owners to help their elderly parents by ensuring they had the nutrition and vitamins they needed to have in their diet. They realized they were on to something when everything they made was met with high praise. 

Try their menu while they’re still a small neighborhood shop, as they have big dreams and ambitions to rapidly expand! Located in the Bed Stuy neighborhood of Brooklyn. 

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟½
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Park Slope Salmon Sandwich
Cuisine: Juice Bar, Smoothies, Breakfast and Brunch

Related Read: 15 Romantic Getaways in New York

11. CZEN

Address: 4410 Avenue H, Brooklyn, NY 11234 | Phone Number: (347) 462-3010

A caribbean and asian fusion restaurant with a cozy environment and perfect presentation of every plate. Located between the Little Haiti and Flatlands neighborhoods.

What To Eat At CZEN

Their dumplings are truly special, served with wasabi, ginger, and a home made Dim sum sauce. For an entree it’s hard to go wrong, but the Lobster and Jerk Beef Stir Fry is a menu item you won’t find anywhere else, packed full of flavor with every bite. 

For lighter veggie fare, try the Marley Medley, a savory mix of chickpeas, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes in a red curry sauce. They also offer a surf and turf option with lobster, shrimp, and short ribs. 

Why Should You Eat Here?  

It’s hard to find a restaurant with a menu that contains more than one or two truly unique dishes. Czen is all about custom takes on traditional dishes. 

They have a variety of options that you just can’t find anywhere else. The restaurant has heated outdoor seating available, and their tropical inspired cocktails will transport you to a secluded beach on a tropical island in the middle of nowhere.

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Cost: $$$
Specialty Dish: Berry Jerk Short Rib
Cuisine: Caribbean, Asian Fusion

12. Nostrand Social

Address: 706 Nostrand Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11216 | Phone Number: (718) 576-6781

Nostrand Social is part restaurant, part music venue. It’s a real fun experience so check their calendar of events to see what’s going on at Nostrand when you’re in the neighborhood.

What To Eat At Nostrand Social

They are open for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Sip on some mimosas for brunch and enjoy a scramble. For lunch or dinner, enjoy a creole sandwich with fries. 

Or, any of their several shrimp dishes that are all creole or cajun inspired. Their wings are amazing and their sauces load up everything on the menu with flavor.

Why Should You Eat Here?  

Nostrand Social is a lively supper club with live music nearly every night. At night, the location turns into a nightclub and becomes a full-blown party. 

Located in the Crown Heights neighborhood, the Nostrand Social has become an anchor for the community and you’ll find tons of people here having a good time after dark. 

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Creole Shrimp
Cuisine: Cajun/Creole, Southern

13. Negril BK

Address: 256 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215 | Phone Number: (347) 721-3801

The owners describe the basis of the restaurant: “Jerk, Rum, and Caribbean vibes.” Everything else stems from this. 

What To Eat At Negril BK

For an appetizer try their special Jerk Lamb Meatballs which are paired with a mint yogurt sauce, or the Escovitch Calamari with a homemade marinara sauce. If you’re with a friend or loved one, and you both have an appetite, try D’roundabout, which is a large sampler platter giving you a little bit of everything. It includes oxtail, curry goat, jerk chicken, and a few of their sides including their amazing pumpkin rice.

Why Should You Eat Here?  

The essence of Negril BK is culinary innovation. They have staple dishes that anyone will enjoy, but to truly enjoy Negril you need to be willing to experiment a little and try something new. 

The dining area is divided into three separate rooms, each with their own unique decor and charm. The bar offers signature cocktails.

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Jerk Chicken
Cuisine: Caribbean, Cocktail Bar

14. SOCO

Address: 509 Myrtle Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11205 | Phone Number: (718) 783-1936

A sleek Southern charm restaurant that pairs comfort and soul food with signature cocktails and DJ sets. Eclectic Southern dining near the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

What To Eat At SOCO

Start off with a helping of their Creole Gumbo, which they portion out for appetizers. If you love shellfish as much as I do, give the Lobster, Shrimp & Grits a try - their unique twist on this Southern classic will leave you wanting seconds. They offer an incredible Pecan Crusted Pork Chop and Herb Marinated Skirt Steak, as well.

Why Should You Eat Here?  

This spot mixes entertainment with deliciousness, and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They have some truly unique dishes, like their Fried Pickled Oysters or F-Que wings. Give them a shot if you’re in the area, you won’t be disappointed. Located in the Clinton Hill neighborhood.

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Molasses Braised Short Ribs
Cuisine: BBQ, Cajun/Creole, Soul Food

15. The Southern Comfort

Address: 377 Marcus Garvey Blvd, Brooklyn, NY 11221 | Phone Number: (718) 484-7085

Described as a soul food “fuisine” restaurant featuring Southern Classics and Bayou favorites. All the authentic Southern soul food classics, and some unique spins on traditional American fare as well. Located in the Bed Stuy neighborhood.

What To Eat At The Southern Comfort

They have a variety of small plates to mix and match, depending on your appetite. Lobster Mac & Cheese, Catfish Nuggets, and Vegan Greens Rolls are all amazing dishes on their own. 

For a bigger meal, try the Sassy Shrimp or BBQ Ribs to fill any sized appetite. They also offer some sandwiches and po’boys for a quicker meal or lunch time hankering. 

Why Should You Eat Here?  

One of the best soul food spots in NYC, they host DJs and live music throughout the week so check their calendar of events before planning your trip. They also have different events, like board game night. Great family-friendly environment with music, activities, and a cozy comfortable environment.

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: BBQ Ribs
Cuisine: Soul Food, Southern, Cajun/Creole

16. Tilly’s Bklyn

Address: 1223 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216 | Phone Number: (347) 425-1251

A family run restaurant with great atmosphere and fun takes on pub fare. Located right off Fulton Street, near the John Hancock Playground - right in the heart of Brooklyn’s Bed Stuy neighborhood.

What To Eat At Tilly’s Bklyn

Start off with a Jerk Shrimp & Plantains appetizer to get a feel for the Caribbean flavors that dominate this menu. Try one of their signature pizzas, or indulge with an order of their Surf and Turf. 

The Trinidadian Stew Chicken is incredible, unlike anything you’ll find anywhere else. They also have a Curry Crab and Coconut Dumplings dish that is simply out of this world.

Why Should You Eat Here?  

This is a great place for the family, centrally-located with a menu that provides a little bit for everyone. The environment is cozy and comfortable and they host live music and other events from time to time - so check their events calendar online. They have some vegan options available and the kitchen staff can be pretty flexible with requests.

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟½
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Tilly’s Calypso Pasta
Cuisine: Pizza, Caribbean, Cocktail Bar

17. Prime 39

Address: 39 Atlantic Ave, Lynbrook, NY 11563 | Phone Number: (516) 837-3939

Modern feeling lounge, steak house, and seafood restaurant. Located a bit to the east, past JFK Airport in the Lynbrook neighborhood. 

What To Eat At Prime 39

Prime 39 is definitely known for its delicious, perfectly cooked steaks. Start off with some of their Oysters Roc-A-Fella, or share some Lobster Mac & Cheese. If you aren’t here for the steak, give the Lamb Chops a try. The Asian Stir Fry is a medley of flavors, and their stuffed shrimp are absolutely decadent. 

Why Should You Eat Here?  

The restaurant has a great vibe and hosts various events and live music acts. Their menu features different specials each night. 

They also offer a variety of vegan options and have some great happy hour specials. The restaurant has a dress code and asks people to come in casual chic or better attire. 

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Cost: $$$
Specialty Dish: Tomahawk Cowboy Steak
Cuisine: American (new), Steakhouse, Cocktail Lounge

18. Rustik Tavern

Address: 471 DeKalb Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11205 | Phone Number: (347) 406-9700

Popular for its great patio seating and laid-back vibe in the dining atmosphere. Located in the Bed Stuy/Clinton Hills area. 

What To Eat At Rustik Tavern

For starters, kick off your meal with their delicious Shrimp Avocado Tostones, or their amazing meaty Willoughby Wings. For the main attraction, enjoy one of their hefty burgers, their mouth-watering Sandford Salmon, or their take on the classic Steak Frites. Pair your meal with their incredible Unlimited Dinner Drinks deal, available with the purchase of any entree.

Why Should You Eat Here?  

Just a few blocks away from the Brooklyn Navy Yard, the restaurant is located in a chic, hip neighborhood. The ambiance is rustic-chic, and the dining area is very cozy and comfortable. It’s in a great central location, so if you’re exploring Brooklyn be sure to drop by for some drinks, a bite to eat, and maybe catch one of their events. 

Yelp Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Cost: $$
Specialty Dish: Seafood Boil
Cuisine: American (traditional)