By Rebecca Kaplan, Oakland City Councilmember At-Large–
Every day is Black History Day, so just because Black History Month is over doesn’t mean that we should stop celebrating Black culture. Oakland has a rich history of Black businesses making significant contributions to the community. This tradition is still taking place today. These enterprises are not just places to shop or dine but pillars of resilience, creativity, and cultural heritage. Let’s explore why supporting these businesses is essential:
Economic Resilience: Black-owned businesses face unique challenges, including historical disparities in access to capital. By supporting them, we contribute to their financial resilience. When these businesses thrive, they create jobs, foster innovation, and strengthen not only Oakland’s economy, but also the entire Bay Area’s as well.
Community Empowerment: Black-owned businesses are often deeply connected to our neighborhoods. When we patronize them, we invest in our community’s well-being. These businesses sponsor local events, mentor youth, and provide spaces for cultural expression.
Cultural Preservation: Black-owned businesses preserve cultural traditions. the arts, and cuisine. They celebrate diversity and contribute to the rich tapestry of Oakland’s identity. From soul food restaurants to Afrocentric boutiques, each establishment tells a story.
We are sharing a list of Black-owned restaurants in Oakland. By spending our dollars intentionally, we uplift communities and promote equity. Let’s celebrate Black excellence and history and support building a brighter future together.
alaMar Dominican Kitchen
100 Grand Ave #111
https://www.alamaroakland.com/
Asmara Restaurant
5020 Telegraph Avenue
https://asmararestaurantoakland.com/
Blackberry Soul: Chef Rene Johnson
https://www.blackberrysoul.net/
Calabash
2300 Valdez Street Suite A
https://calabasheats.com/
Caña Cuban Parlor & Café
530 Lake Park Avenue
https://canaoakland.com/
Coco Breeze Restaurant and Catering Service
2370 High Street
https://cocobreezeco.myshopify.com/
Crumble and Whisk Pâtisserie
4104 MacArthur Blvd
https://www.crumbleandwhisk.com/
Enssaro Ethiopian Cuisine
357-A Grand Avenue
https://www.enssarooakland.com/
Everett and Jones BBQ
126 Broadway
https://www.eandjbbq.com/
Falafal Boy Inc.
1924 Franklin Street
https://falafelboyonline.com/
Geoffrey’s Inner Circle
410 14th Street
https://geoffreyslive.com/
Graffiti Pizza
719 Washington Street
https://graffitipizza.square.site/
Gregory’s Gourmet Desserts
285 23rd St
https://gregorysgourmetdesserts.com/
Home of Chicken and Waffles
247 4th Street
https://homeofchickenandwaffles.com/
Hook You Up Catering & BBQ Services
2420 Renwick Street
https://tinyurl.com/4erepkyu
Jusla Eats and Catering
1955 Broadway
https://www.eat-black.com/
Oeste Bar & Kitchen
722 Clay Street
https://www.eat-black.com/
Red Door Catering
2925 Adeline Street
https://reddoorcatering.com/
Red Bay Coffee Headquarters & Café
3136 International Boulevard
https://www.redbaycoffee.com/
Robert Dorsey Catering and Events
344 20th Street
https://chefrobertdorsey.com/
Roderick’s BBQ
2708 98th Avenue
https://www.rodericksbbq.com/
Teni East Kitchen
4015 Broadway
https://www.tenieastkitchen.com/
The Cook and Her Farmer
510 9th Street
https://www.thecookandherfarmer.com/
Town Fare by Chef Michele McQueen
1000 Oak Street
https://townfarecafe.com/
Willows & Pine Restaurant and Catering
3525 Fruitvale Avenue
https://www.willowsandpine-restaurant.com/
Councilmember At-Large and Council President Rebecca Kaplan, who is the Vice Mayor of Oakland, was elected in 2008 to serve as Oakland’s citywide Councilmember; she was re-elected in 2016 and 2020. She also serves on the Alameda County Transportation Commission (ACTC). Follow Councilmember Kaplan on Twitter @Kaplan4Oakland (https://tinyurl.com/2dtjmazc) and Facebook (https://tinyurl.com/2p9dd5ta).
Out of the Closet and into City Hall
Published on March 7, 2024
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