Celebrity-owned restaurants have been popping up for decades and now Black celebrities are getting a seat at the table. In reality, they’re making their own tables and pulling up their own chairs – and we’re here for it. The notoriety of celebrity names is a given – but do the food, service and ambiance match the hype? We sorted through reviews and vetted menus to bring you our Favorite Celebrity Black-owned Restaurants in the 2023 Travel Noire Awards.
Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen by Issa Rae, Yonnie Hagos and Ajay Relan
Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen was co-founded by L.A. natives Yonnie Hagos and Ajay Relan. The duo opened Hilltop’s first location in 2018 and was joined by director and actress, Issa Rae, in 2019. This allowed them to expand further. The partners now own four locations in Slauson, Inglewood, Eagle Rock and DTLA. The community-driven coffee shops are a breath of fresh air in the neighborhoods they serve.
As for the eats, you’ll find simple and nourishing bites on the menu including the “Bangin’ Breakfast Burrito,” “Overnight Oats,” and the “Smoked Salmon Droptop.” The team cleverly blends references from their West coast roots into the nomenclature. Grab one of Karla’s Lemonades to wash down the delicious food. It is a tasty hibiscus tea beverage. Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen also has all the classic coffee options, like espressos, lattes and Americanos. The restaurant also serves interesting flavors, like Egyptian Chamomile, and assorted fruit juices. Stop by any number of their locations for a delicious breakfast or lunch. As far as celebrity Black-owned restaurants go, this one should be on everyone’s list.
Swan Restaurant by Pharrell Williams and David Grutman
Located in the heart of Miami’s Design District, Swan is a hotspot restaurant by hospitality connoisseur David Grutman and music producer Pharrell Williams. Swan opened its doors in 2018 and continues to draw in a trendy crowd. The indoor/outdoor vibe with plants and greenery throughout makes the atmosphere feel lush and vibrant. Come to Swan for a special occasion dinner, cocktails with friends or a lively brunch scene with a DJ set. The restaurant is known for bringing in celebrity guests, like Winnie Harlow, A$AP Rocky and Kourtney Kardashian. The carefully curated Instagram page boasts a posh, upscale scene and delicious-looking food. One of the perks of Swan is that the restaurant is open for weekend brunch, lunch and late-night service, making it an easy choice for Miami locals looking for fun.
As for the menu, there are a number of great options. Start off with small plates, like the Swan Ceasar and Lobster Cavatelli. Next dine on a main course, such as branzino, ribeye steak or a classic Swan Burger. Sides include truffle fries, brussels sprouts and broccolini. We also love the assortment of pretty cocktails with cheeky names like “Get Lucky,” and “Saturday Night Fever.”
Fellaship ATL by Cam Newton and Cecil Newton Jr.
If you are looking for a premium dining experience with soulful music, chic artistry and a uniquely Southern flair, this eatery is for you. Fellaship ATL created by American quarterback Cam Newton and his brother Cecil Newton Jr.
“Anchored in family, football and fellowship, the brothers embarked on a journey to bring their hometown of Atlanta, Georgia a space they can call their own,” the restaurant website states.
In addition to a restaurant, Fellaship ATL is also a cigar lounge, adding another element of originality to the establishment. Grab a cigar and an Old Fashioned, but be advised of the strict dress code. Business casual attire is strongly recommended. No ball caps, basketball sneakers or athletic wear is allowed. Exceptions are made for sports jerseys on Sundays. You’ll also notice the Fedora culture among Fellaship’s patrons. Black men come in hats and suits and Black women adorn their Sunday’s best.
Dining at the restaurant strikes a balance between sophistication and Southern charm. Dinner includes non-meat options, like vegan sliders and Impossible tacos. If you are looking for something more hearty, then try “Toots Seafood Pasta,” loaded with shrimp, crawfish and chicken breast, tossed in a creamy creole sauce. Finish it off with molten lava chocolate cake.
Our Favorite Celebrity Black-Owned Restaurants list is one for the books. Click the links below to vote on the 2023 Travel Noire Awards.
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