18 Best Black-Owned Restaurants in Philadelphia, PA in 2025
Looking to experience the culinary magic found in the black-owned restaurants Philadelphia has to offer? Ready to dine at some of the city's most beloved establishments, but not sure where to start? Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it can sometimes be difficult to pin down the perfect spot. Luckily, we've done all the legwork for you and narrowed down the top options worth trying.
From casual pizza joints and brunch places to classy, upscale restaurants, there’s sure to be something for everyone, including the famous Philly cheesesteak. According to PBS, this renowned favorite was first created in 1930 and has since become sought after by people from all over the world.
Besides having famed meals, many of these eateries have also found ways to give back to communities, which just goes to show how Philadelphia’s food scene is constantly transforming for the better. Let's dive into every detail of the 18 black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia that you need to visit at least once.
The 18 Best Black-Owned Philadelphia Restaurants
1. Amina
Tucked in the historic Old City neighborhood is Amina, one of the most renowned black-owned restaurants Philadelphia has to offer for guests with an affinity for refined dining experiences. The impressive menu is a compilation of Southern food with Nigerian influences.
The Vibe
Art decorates the exposed brick walls of this black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia. Take your seat in the plush velvet chairs and enjoy the candlelit meal to come.
What to Order
Go for the braised oxtail cheesesteak omelette, a house special that customers laud as one of the most flavorful dishes. This dish features birch beer-caramelized onions, creamy fondue and a secret sauce. If you're popping in for brunch, the banana pudding-stuffed pancakes should do the trick.
Amina | 104 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19106 | $$$
2. All The Way Live
If you’re craving raw or vegan cuisine, it’s time to visit All The Way Live. This black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia first opened in 2008, making history as the first of its kind to appear on the city’s streets.
The Vibe
The polished brown floors, cozy seating and warm lights of this black-owned Philadelphia restaurant are sure to excite you as much as the food does.
What to Order
Few restaurants in Philadelphia know how to stay as innovative as All The Way Live does with its incredibly inventive culinary creations. Burgers like the popular sprouted chickpea mushroom option with a unique herb nut mayo will prove just how incredible the menu items are.
All The Way Live | 6108 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19144 | $$
3. Atiya Ola’s Spirit First Foods
Another one of the best black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia that serves vegan, vegetarian and raw cuisine is Atiya Ola’s Spirit First Foods. This family-owned restaurant offers an expansive menu with innovative, well-balanced dishes such as burgers, sandwiches, stir-fries and delectable desserts.
The Vibe
The warmly lit interior, colorful art and flourishing plants make this one of the top black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia for a delightful meal with friends, family or colleagues.
What to Order
The grilled salmon salad is popular. The veggie sausage stir fry is another excellent option, which features sautéed onions, brown rice, bell peppers and your choice of two raw items.
Atiya Ola’s Spirit First Foods | 310 S. 48th St., Philadelphia, PA 19143 | $$
4. Kilimandjaro Restaurant
For quality Senegalese fare, plan a lunch or dinner at Kilimandjaro Restaurant. This popular hidden gem is renowned for mastering Senegal’s national dish, thiéboudienne, as well as other delicious dishes, such as grilled lamb and seafood options.
The Vibe
At this bright and cheery black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia, dine amidst the lively orange walls lined with West African artwork. The cozy space can get busy, so arrive early if you can.
What to Order
As alluded to before, you can't visit this black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia without trying the popular thiéboudienne. This delicious dish features perfectly cooked fish paired with vegetables over rice and tomato paste.
Kilimandjaro Restaurant | 4301 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19104 | $$
5. Toast Café
Hunting for the perfect Sunday brunch? Then Toast Café has everything you need and more. This is one of the black-owned restaurants that Philadelphia locals consider a mainstay for modern takes on classic comfort foods, served in a completely chic atmosphere.
The Vibe
Floor-to-ceiling windows and modern art help create a hip, fun vibe here. Black-owned Philadelphia restaurants like this are great contenders for catch-up meetings with friends and casual dates.
What to Order
Toast Café is known for serving some of the best breakfast in Philadelphia. Customers go for hearty meals like the Nutty Buddy, which features delectable hazelnut brioche French toast, and the chicken and waffles — a dish that needs no introduction.
Toast Café | 500 S. 52nd St., Philadelphia, PA 19143 | $$
6. Bake’n Bacon
Sometimes, all you need is a gourmet bacon sandwich to kick any cravings to the curb. That’s the ethos behind Bake’n Bacon, an innovative black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia that has humble beginnings as a food truck back in 2019.
The Vibe
When an eatery features ceilings with purple and blue neon lights, sleek booths and a bar, you know you’re in for a treat. The bustling atmosphere here at this black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia is lively and welcoming, with great music to boot.
What to Order
Customers rave about the bacon brisket burger with the restaurant’s famous barbeque sauce. With three meat varieties (wagyu beef, bacon and brisket) married with smoked gouda and onion straws, there's simply no beating it. The brisket cheesesteak sandwich comes in at a close second.
Bake’n Bacon | 1148 S. 11th St., Philadelphia, PA 19147 | $$
7. Doro Bet
Introducing Doro Bet, an Ethiopian chicken house like no other. Among black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia, Doro Bet specializes in gluten-free fried chicken and shawarma options, along with vegan alternatives.
The Vibe
You’ll find rustic interiors decorated with modern African murals and art at this black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia. It’s a great casual spot for family gatherings.
What to Order
The most popular option here is the classic fried chicken sandwich, a crispy creation with remoulade sauce and fixings on brioche. The doro wat, a traditional dish of spicy chicken stew, ayib cheese and a hard-boiled egg, is an excellent choice for spice lovers.
Doro Bet | 4533 Baltimore Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19143 | $
8. Booker’s Restaurant & Bar
Head to the University City area and pop into Booker’s Restaurant & Bar for a rockin’ good time. This is one of the best black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia to visit for family recipe-inspired Southern fare. The name is a historical tribute to Booker Wright, a famous waiter and restaurateur.
The Vibe
The quaint, relaxed setting, complete with comfy booths, black leather seats and colorful walls, makes Booker’s one of the top black-owned restaurants for Philadelphia locals and visitors alike.
What to Order
Within the inclusive menu, try the blackened catfish topped with sriracha aioli and collard greens. Customers applaud it as a delightfully flavorful dish.
Booker’s Restaurant & Bar | 5021 Baltimore Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19143 | $$$
9. Friday Saturday Sunday
Who doesn't love Friday Saturday Sunday? Yes, the weekend is everyone's favorite time in a seven-day stretch, and this eatery emanates the spirit of this limited yet joyful time with intricate food offerings. The precision dedicated to every dish makes this one of the most memorable black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia for tasting menu experiences.
The Vibe
This is one of the best black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia to visit if you want to experience a moody, intimate ambiance. When considering date ideas in Philadelphia, a visit to this high-end eatery is an experience you don't want to miss out on.
What to Order
The tasting menu is refined regularly, but past highlights include the perfectly cooked New York Strip steak with vegetables and the salsa verde fish with coconut.
Friday Saturday Sunday | 261 S. 21st St., Philadelphia, PA 19103 | $$$$
10. 48th Street Grille
If you find yourself craving fresh Cajun and Caribbean fare, be sure to check out 48th Street Grille. Fun fact: This highly recognized black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia had its humble start as a catering business.
The Vibe
Light-filled windows and colorful artwork line the walls, creating a refined yet casual experience. It’s one of the black-owned restaurants that Philadelphia guests and locals visit on a regular basis due to its welcoming staff and tasty meals featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
What to Order
Customers flock here for the perfectly-seasoned pulled jerk chicken hash, a balanced dish of chicken, vegetables and a fried egg on top. If you still feel like jerk chicken with a little less added to it, the wings are ideal.
48th Street Grille | 310 S. 48th St., Philadelphia, PA 19143 | $$
11. South
It’s the city’s top jazz club. It’s an impressive dining hall. It’s all of the above and much more. It’s South, one of the most renowned black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia. This popular spot serves Southern comfort food classics amid an inspiring atmosphere of live music.
The Vibe
Enjoying a meal at this classy, lounge-style restaurant makes for a lively, bustling affair, especially because of the ample space and live music. The upscale ambiance makes a visit to this eatery one of many great potential birthday ideas in Philadelphia.
What to Order
The classic Creole jambalaya at this black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia is a modern take on the traditional dish. A side of freshly baked cornbread never hurts, either.
South | 600 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19130 | $$$
12. Reggae Reggae Vibes
Out in Northern Liberties is Reggae Reggae Vibes, a popular spot that specializes in homestyle Caribbean fare with American influences and vice versa. Because of its innovative menu and warm service, it is one of the most beloved black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia.
The Vibe
This is one of the more no-frills black-owned restaurants Philadelphia has to offer, with casual seating and colorful walls. It’s a great place for impromptu catch-ups with friends.
What to Order
If you’re fond of oxtails, there’s an oxtail cheesesteak sandwich on the menu of this black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia that’s sure to please. It’s a unique take on the city’s classic cheesesteak dish. Finish off with a slice of lemon pound cake for a decadent sweet treat.
Reggae Reggae Vibes | 517 W. Girard Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19123 | $
13. Suya Suya West African Grill
This next black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia is inspired by childhood memories of grilled suya (seasoned meat skewers). Visit Suya Suya West African Grill for flavorful takes on freshly made dishes traditionally found across the West African region.
The Vibe
The atmosphere at this family-friendly restaurant in Philadelphia is cozy and modern, with a warm monochrome color theme and green plants as accents.
What to Order
The egusi over fufu is a must at this black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia. It’s a rich melon seed soup with tender chicken and mashed root vegetables.
Suya Suya West African Grill | 400 Fairmount Ave., Ste. 2808, Philadelphia, PA 19123 | $$
14. BlackHen Fried Chicken
One of the most unique black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia is BlackHen Fried Chicken, a popular spot that specializes in gourmet fried chicken. Discover an elevated brunch experience crafted by the same dream team behind Amina.
The Vibe
Filled with contemporary artwork and lively energy, this black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia ensures that the delectable food is not the only reason people visit. The interior design has a coordinated black, white and red color scheme.
What to Order
Be sure to sample the famous fried chicken, whether you go for the wings, an entire chicken or something in between (quarter or half options are available). As an appetizer, deviled eggs are extremely popular.
BlackHen Fried Chicken | 120 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19106 | $$
15. Down North Pizza
If you’re craving elevated pizza with an inspiring mission behind it, this black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia is the place for you. Along with offering delicious pies, Down North Pizza supports its community by exclusively employing formerly incarcerated individuals and providing resources to help with reintegration.
The Vibe
The grab-and-go counter and red stool seats make this one of the most popular black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia for enjoying a quick, quality pizza slice.
What to Order
The Roc The Mic is the most popular option at this black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia. It’s an indulgent combination of four cheeses, beef pepperoni and, of course, the restaurant’s famous house-made Norf Sauce.
Down North Pizza | 2804 W. Lehigh Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19132 | $$
16. Pretty Girls Cook
As one of the best woman-led, black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia for breakfast and brunch fare, Pretty Girls Cook knows its craft, and knows it well. This local business has a BYOB policy and serves beautifully plated dishes that are a treat for the eyes.
The Vibe
The modern, chic atmosphere with rustic tables and golden frames helps make this one of the top black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia for cute brunches with friends and family.
What to Order
One of the bestsellers here is the Ladies Love Salmon dish, featuring grilled salmon, confetti-style rice and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The burgers at this black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia are also worth a try.
Pretty Girls Cook | 1016 N. Marshall St., Philadelphia, PA 19123 | $$
17. Bar Jawn
For classic dishes with an Italian twist, pay a visit to a local favorite: Bar Jawn. This is one of the most unique black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia because it’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a tribute to what the space used to be — from a romantic Italian spot to a lively bar and now, a perfect balance of both.
The Vibe
Catch up with friends amid the eclectic décor of this black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia, including framed photos on the walls and checkered tablecloths to keep things classy.
What to Order
Go for the smash burger, a house special with double patties and customizable fixings.
Bar Jawn | 4247 Main St., Philadelphia, PA 19127 | $$
18. iMunch Café
This Brewerytown spot is the dream result of owner J. Roger Powe III. You can find an array of revitalizing breakfast and brunch options at iMunch Café, as it is one of the main black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia that offers healthier options. It's worth noting that it has an upper floor where you can even host a catered meeting or event.
The Vibe
This black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia feels like a warm, welcoming community hub tucked inside a living room. Its wooden plank walls, TV and carpets exude a casual vibe. You can enjoy Philadelphia food here alone or with friends and family.
What to Order
With an array of Philadelphia food options, the lemon-stuffed French toast stands out as one of the best. This tangy dish comes with eggs and other delectable breakfast sides.
iMunch Café | 1233 N. 31st St., Philadelphia, PA 19121 | $
Other Foodie Experiences in Philadelphia
Along with visiting black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia, there are other ways for foodies to explore the city or learn from its best chefs. One way is to take one of the cooking classes in Philadelphia. These classes are fun and immersive ways to learn new cooking tips and techniques. With the expertise and guidance of a seasoned cook, you’ll be whipping up classic Philly dishes in no time.
Another way to enjoy the city's best culinary masterpieces is through food tours in Philadelphia. Each tour is led by an experienced guide who knows the ins and outs of the best restaurants in the city. Discover black-owned restaurants in Philadelphia that are considered to be hidden gems along with better-known popular spots, then save that information for the next time you’re in need of a place to celebrate.
When you get right down to it, there are simply tons of fantastic black-owned restaurants Philadelphia has to offer to hungry diners. Each one boasts unique menus and modern takes on delicious classics, such as the Philly cheesesteak, breakfast grits and even pizza. The African food scene is especially vibrant here, with spots that specialize in dishes like thiéboudienne and suya.
With such talented restaurateurs, there’s always something to look forward to when discovering delicious meals. Be sure to keep an eye on these featured restaurants and new ones.
For even more ways to explore Philadelphia and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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