5 New Black-Owned Restaurants in LA
Guest Writer – Kamico Drakes Brown
This will not be a list of spots you already know, like Harold and Belle’s and Roscoe’s chicken and waffles. No shade to them but we’ve been there, did that. Here is a list of something new to whet the palate.
Poppy & Rose
765 Wall Street, Los Angeles, CA
(https://www.instagram.com/poppyandrosela?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==)
This beautiful spot is open for breakfast and lunch. Whenever I’m across the street at the Los Angeles flower market, I make it a point to stop by. Alongside their creative brunch menu, you’ll find a variety of beers and specialty cocktails. Their chef was just on a few episodes of Food Network’s Tournament of Champions so you know he walked away with a trick or two. They also have a catering menu.
Joyce Soul and Sea
770 Grand Ave, Suite A, Los Angeles, CA
(https://www.instagram.com/joyce_dtla?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==)
Let me start by saying that their drinks are creative, imaginative, and tasty. And the food is good too. I enjoyed the charred octopus and the kale paired with coconut for an unexpected sweetness. Also, try the cornbread. I celebrated my birthday here and they were very kind and accommodating.
Three more to check out below:
B&T’s Deli
912 Montana Avenue, Santa Monica, CA
(https://www.instagram.com/bandtsdeli?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==)
They are a brand new 2024 spot in Santa Monica on Montana Avenue serving vegan deli sandwiches. Take a ticket, order one of their creative sandwiches, and wait. Each sandwich features a unique name such as “the goddaughter” for their marinated eggplant, topped with Italian grinder salad and a housemade green peppercorn spread on a fresh loaf. You won’t be disappointed. This husband and wife team are working hard to offer something new. Follow them on Instagram at bandtsdeli.
Hilltop Coffee and Kitchen
718 S. Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA
(https://www.instagram.com/findyourhilltop?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==)
Ok not new, but our very own Black Barbie Issa Rae co-owns this franchise with four locations across LA, including Slauson, Ingelwood, Eagle Rock, and downtown LA. Always updating the menus, each location offers fresh and unique takes on breakfast bowls, burritos, sandwiches, salads, and homemade tomato soup. Yes, the food is good but the vibe is even better at each location. Check out the location near you at findyourhilltop.com
Alta
5359 W. Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
(https://www.instagram.com/altarestaurant?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==)
This Michelin-rated restaurant offers soul food with a California twist. Chefs Keith Corbin and Daniel Patterson offer creative dishes like a grilled barbecue duck Vegan California Gumbo with market veggies straight from the farmers market. Come for the fried chicken and black eye pea fritters, and stay for the casual and homey vibe. Then take some time to explore West Adams’ rapidly changing neighborhood.