As a small way to show solidarity with the Black community, I wanted to highlight the Black-owned restaurants in Seattle so it’s easier for you to find and support them. You’ll find Black-owned restaurants in every neighborhood serving every type of cuisine you can imagine.
When George Floyd and Breonna Taylor were murdered, many of us took a pledge to spend at least 15% of our income on Black-owned businesses so that more money goes into Black communities. If you’re ready to make good on that promise, here’s a round up of Black-owned restaurants in Seattle that are worthy of your support now and always. Get ready for some good eating in your future!
Find more Black-owned businesses: Both Intentionalist and Seattle Good Business Network have robust directories of BIPOC businesses beyond just restaurants.
Restaurant missing below? Please contact me if you see an error or know of another restaurant that should be on this list.
Black-Owned Restaurants in Seattle
Browse by neighborhood:
Ballard | Beacon Hill | Belltown | Bellevue | Brighton | Burien | Capitol Hill | Central District | Columbia City | Crown Hill | Des Moines | Downtown | First Hill | Fremont | Georgetown | Green Lake | Greenwood/Phinney Ridge | Hillman City | Kent | Kirkland | Lake City | Madison Park | Madison Valley / Madrona | Maple Leaf | Mt. Baker | Queen Anne | Rainier Beach | Ravenna/U-District | Shoreline | Skyway | SODO | Tukwila | Vashon Island | Wallingford | West Seattle | Woodinville
See the bottom of this list for Black-owned food trucks and pop-ups.
Ballard
Lockspot Cafe
website | get directions | cuisine: American | dining options: indoor and outdoor
This spot right near the Ballard Locks serves seaside shack food like fish and chips and chowder that would rival some of the best clam chowder in Seattle.
Beacon Hill
The Station
website | get directions | cuisine: coffee | dining options: indoor with a few outdoor tables
This Black and Latinx-owned coffee shop has an artsy vibe and is serving some of the best coffee in the city.
Belltown
Lenox
website | get directions | cuisine: Afro Latin | dining options: indoor and outdoor
I never had the chance to try Lenox when they popped up around Seattle, but I checked out their new brick & mortar shortly after it opened in the old Jerk Shack space in Belltown. They focus on Afro and Latin American soul food, particularly the fusion of these cuisines that’s common in Harlem, NYC.
There is gorgeous palm leaf wallpaper and plants hanging from the skylights that make the space feel bright and airy. The music has tropical vibes and quite a few servers wore Hawaiian shirts. There’s also bold graphic art lining the walls to give the otherwise neutral color palette a punch of playfulness. Oh, and they have an adorable back patio.
The tropical references are present throughout the menu. The mostly rum-based cocktail list is fitting of a poolside setting. I got the one tequila drink, La Placita, that was a fruity, but not-to-sweet party. I sucked it down way too fast.
There’s a lot to love about the food as well. The tres hermanas salad of corn, beans, and squash is served in a zingy Green Goddess dressing and had the most irresistible crunch. While a touch greasy, I couldn’t stop saying “oh my god” with every bite of the empanada that’s generously stuffed with juicy rope vieja shredded beef. And the bistek steak is perfectly cooked with sweet and smoky onions paired with zippy chimichurri and pickled onions.
All in all, Lenox is serving my favorite style of food: bright, acid-forward dishes that feel like a summer party.
Bellevue
Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi
website | get directions | cuisine: Japanese/American | dining options: indoor and outdoor
Ascend is one of the best fine dining restaurants in Seattle. It’s located at the top of Lincoln Square Mall and has floor-to-ceiling windows offering epic views of Lake Washington. It has a Vegas-like theatrics like over-the-top desserts and smoking drinks, but it’s not just show. The food here is really good.
Ezell’s Fried Chicken
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor
Oprah Winfrey said Ezell’s was her favorite fried chicken, and it’s not wonder why. They make some of the yummiest in the city. You’ll find multiple locations around the Seattle metro area ready to fulfill that fried chicken craving when it hits.
Wingstop
website | get directions | cuisine: American | dining options: indoor
Wingstop has various locations around the city and should be your go-to for chicken wings.
Brighton
Blue Nile Ethiopian Restaurant
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
An Ethiopian restaurant tucked in the back of a large parking lot.
Burien
Classic Eats
website | get directions | cuisine: American | dining options: indoor
This is one of the Black-owned restaurants in Seattle owned by Burien natives. They serve American diner-style food in a space filled with Americana memorabilia.
Dukem Restaurant & Market
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
This restaurant is tucked in the back of a food market, so it feels like a true hidden gem.
Capitol Hill
Dirty Dog
website | get directions | cuisine: hot dogs | dining options: outdoor
One of the quintessential Seattle foods is the street hot dog, often served with grilled onions, kraut, and cream cheese. You can get both meat and vegetarian dogs from this Black-owned hot dog stand in Capitol Hill or at various events around the city.
Footprint Wine Tap
website | get directions | cuisine: wine bar | dining options: indoor
This fun wine bar serves small-batch wines on tap. You can also fill growlers to go with your favorites.
Osteria La Spiga
website | get directions | cuisine: Italian | dining options: indoor with a few outdoor tables
Osteria la Spiga is one of my favorite Black-owned restaurants in Seattle thanks to their tiramisu. It honestly changed my life. They also make excellent Italian dishes and homemade pasta. Keep an eye out for a robust calendar of events with guest chefs and drink pairings.
Shikorina Pastries
website | get directions | cuisine: bakery | dining options: to go
Shikorina not only makes gorgeous pastries and desserts, but they also have a sliding scale pricing structure that allows people to pay what they can. Don’t miss the cardamom snickerdoodle ice cream.
Taste of the Caribbean
website | get directions | cuisine: Jamaican | dining options: indoor
If you’ve never had Jamaican food, head to this spot serving classic Caribbean dishes.
Queen Sheba
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
Queen Sheba is the first Ethiopian restaurant I ever went to almost two decades ago. It’s the perfect spot for an introduction to the cuisine.
Central District
23rd Ave Brewery
website | get directions | cuisine: beer | dining options: indoor
A second Black-owned brewery in Seattle that opened June 2022. Come for cans to go and tastings at their bottle shop.
Adey Abeba
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
This is a cozy Ethiopian spot that offers catering and even roasts their own coffee.
Agelgil Ethiopian Restaurant
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
Another nearby Ethiopian restaurant that’s no frills but has excellent reviews on Yelp from claiming they have some of the best food.
Boon Boona Coffee
website | get directions | cuisine: coffee | dining options: outdoor or to go
Boon Boona is one of my favorite coffee roasters in Seattle. They source beans from Africa and roast in house to highlight their fruity and complex notes.
Avole
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: to go
Avole is another one of the best coffee roasters in Seattle. They have some of the best coffee for a French press!
Cafe Salem
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor and outdoor
This is one of the few Ethiopian restaurants that also has an outdoor seating area.
Central Cafe & Juice Bar
website | get directions | cuisine: American | dining options: to go
This cafe offers healthy salads, sandwiches, and other goodies perfect for the busy lunch crowd.
Maheder Cafe
get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
This is another one of the Black-owned restaurants in Seattle serving Ethiopian food in large portions and with a lot of heat. They quietly replaced the late Chef Cafe.
Communion
website | get directions | cuisine: Southern | dining options: indoor and outdoor
Communion is probably the most popular of the Black-owned restaurants in Seattle. They have gotten national attention from James Beard and foodie magazines for their Southern-meets-Pacific-Northwest cuisine. Don’t miss their cat fish banh mi and relish tray.
It used to be impossible to get in here, and it still is, but now they are open for takeout. Just order online and pick it up to beat the crowds.
East African Imports & Restaurant
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: to go
Most people miss this Ethiopian restaurant because it’s tucked inside a food mart, but that’s a mistake because they’re serving food well loved by locals.
Fat’s Chicken & Waffles
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor
This is not only one of the best Black-owned restaurants in Seattle, it’s also LGBTQ+ owned. They’re known for their fried chicken, but I think the secret stunners here are the mac and cheese and poutine with pimento cheese. I also love the biscuit that comes with the fried chicken sandwich.
FishBox
website | get directions | cuisine: seafood | dining options: to go
This spot is known for fish and chips. It’s inside a community kitchen connected to a school, so you need to order online and then call them when you arrive so they can bring it out to you.
Jackson’s Catfish Corner
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor
The world teared up when Jackson’s closed back in 2018, but they re-opened during the pandemic to bring the people their excellent fried fish.
Jerk Shack
website | get directions | cuisine: Caribbean | dining options: indoor and outdoor
Jerk Shack is one of my favorite Black-owned restaurants in Seattle. They serve Caribbean food right near all the Downtown action. You also wouldn’t guess from entering that they have one of the best patios out back.
Definitely get the jerk fried chicken. It’s juicy and crisp, but elevated from your typical fried chicken thanks to the spice rub.
King’s Deli
website | get directions | cuisine: American | dining options: to go
King’s Deli is and grab-and-go place known for sandwiches and some of the best ice cream in Seattle.
Meskel
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
Another Ethiopian restaurant that’s regularly voted one of the best in Seattle.
Metier Brewing
website | get directions | cuisine: brewery | dining options: indoor and outdoor
This was the first Black-owned brewery in Washington and they’re serving some excellent beer. They also have a location near all the best Woodinville wineries.
Foodwise, don’t miss Umami Kushi’s savory Japanese pastries.
Pro tip: Head brew of Metier, Rodney Hines, also leads the beer program at Steelheads Alley located inside Hatback Bar & Grille in SODO. Steelheads Alley pays tribute to the 1946 Steelheads Negro League baseball team.
Quick Pack Food Mart
website | get directions | cuisine: soul food | dining options: to go
Quick Pack is an unassuming food mart serving some of the best fried chicken in Seattle.
Ras Dashen Restaurant
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
This is another well-loved Ethiopian restaurant with relaxed vibes.
Shewa-Ber Ethiopian Restaurant
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
Shewa-Ber not only serves traditional Ethiopian food, but they also roast their own coffee.
Simply Soulful
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor & takeout
This soul food spot serves heaping portions of delectable fried chicken, catfish, and all the traditional southern fixings.
Soulful Dishes
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor
Enjoy large and comforting portions of classics like mac and cheese, collards, and more.
Wonder Sports Bar
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
You’d likely never guess this sports bar also has yummy Ethiopian food.
Zagol Ethiopian Restaurant
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
A cozy Ethiopian restaurant serving hefty portions of both vegetarian and meat classics.
Zobel
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
A casual Ethiopian restaurant loved by locals.
Columbia City
Banana’s Grill
website | get directions | cuisine: Mediterranean | dining options: indoor
This spot would rival some of the best Mediterranean restaurants in Seattle. They serve all the classics like hummus, babaganoush, shawarma, and gyros.
Cafe Ibex
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
This is probably the most well-rated and love Ethiopian restaurant.
The Comfort Zone
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor
This is one of my favorite Black-owned restaurants in Seattle. They serve excellent fried chicken and a to-die-for meatloaf. When we ordered it on the side, they said that’s how the locals always get it. Follow suit!
Ezell’s Fried Chicken
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor
Oprah Winfrey said Ezell’s was her favorite fried chicken, and it’s not wonder why. They make some of the yummiest in the city. You’ll find multiple locations around the Seattle metro area ready to fulfill that fried chicken craving when it hits.
Island Soul
website | get directions | cuisine: Caribbean | dining options: indoor
Owners Theo and Gaelyn Martin opened Island Soul as an homage to Theo’s father who opened the restaurant in the Central District in the ’70s as a barbecue spot. Now the focus is more on Caribbean flavors, but with the spirit of comfort food that Theo’s dad had established for the community.
There’s a lot to love at this lively Caribbean restaurant, but don’t miss the curry and coconut cornbread.
Kezira Cafe
get directions | cuisine: Eritrean / Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
This Ethiopian restaurant is a bit different because they also serve Eritrean food.
Crown Hill
I’ll add Black-owned Seattle restaurants once they open in Crown Hill!
Des Moines
Dat Creole Soul
website | get directions | cuisine: Creole | dining options: indoor and outdoor
This sports bar is serving up some excellent Creole food. Don’t miss their popcorn shrimp and fried oysters wit waffle fries.
Downtown
Cafe Campagne
website | get directions | cuisine: French | dining options: indoor
Cafe Campagne is one of the best French restaurants in Seattle. It serves an excellent steak tartare and goat cheese salad right in Pike Place Market.
Falafel King
website | get directions | cuisine: Mediterranean | dining options: mostly to go with a few outdoor stools
Falafel King is another Pike Place Market spot perfect for grabbing a shawarma to go.
First Hill
Gold Coast Ghal Kitchen
website | cuisine: Liberian and Ghanian | dining options: dine-in
This is the only Liberian restaurant I’ve heard of in Seattle. They serve excellent potato greens and chicken stew and hand pies. You’ll also find a strong cocktail program and a hip vibe, so come ready to celebrate!
Fremont
Soul Fremont
website | get directions (inside Dumpling Czar) | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: to go
This catering business lets you not only get their food for an event, but you can also grab some food to go and eat it in one of the many plazas in Fremont.
Georgetown
Cakes of Paradise
website | get directions | cuisine: Hawaiian sweets | dining options: to go
I can not begin to tell you how much I love Cakes of Paradise. They serve the best dessert in Seattle thanks to their exceptionally moist Hawaiian cakes. Don’t miss the guava cake! I love it so much, it’s one of the stops on my self-guided Georgetown food tour.
Conscious Eatery
website | get directions | cuisine: American | dining options: indoor and outdoor
This shop is making some of the best sandwiches in Seattle. They also put a lot of effort in training and donating to lift up Black communities and other under-represented groups.
Green Lake
Bongo’s
website | get directions | cuisine: Caribbean | dining options: indoor and outdoor
Bongo’s is one of the best Black-owned restaurants in Seattle. They have a killer pork shoulder that you can get in a sandwich or on a plate. Plus it’s fun vibes because they ave a huge outdoor area with sand.
Spud Fish & Chips
website | get directions | cuisine: seafood | dining options: indoor and a few outdoor tables
Spud’s is a seasonal fish and chips spot open every summer just in time for the crowds that swarm Green Lake.
Greenwood/Phinney Ridge
Dark Room Seattle
website | get directions | cuisine: Korean | dining options: indoor dining
Dark Room is a Asian and Black-owned restaurant focused on cocktails and Korean small plates. The menu is focused so it can be beautifully plated and match the craft of the drinks.
Jollof Hub West African Cuisines
website | get directions | cuisine: West African | dining options: indoor dining & to go
Jollof Hub is an easy-to-miss restaurant in a small strip mall just north of Bitter Lake. The space is tiny, but the warm hospitality makes it feels like you’re dining in the owner’s home. You’ll find a focused menu of Gambian and Nigerian classics. Don’t miss the meat pies, Benachin jollof rice with lamb, and Domoda peanut butter stew. All of them are deeply flavorful with complex spices and textures.
Tres’ House of Cheesesteaks
website | food cart directions (Ballard) & inside The Lamplighter directions (Greenwood) | cuisine: American | dining options: indoor, to go
Tres’ is my favorite cheesesteak in all of Seattle. It’s thinly sliced so that gobs of gooey cheese gets trapped in its folds. Don’t miss the classic OG sandwich.
Hillman City
Habesha Cafe
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
Most people will tell you this is the best Ethiopian restaurant in the city. It used to go by the name Amy’s Merkato. Read why they changed the name here.
City Teriyaki
website | get directions | cuisine: Teriyaki | dining options: outdoor
This casual spot is serving up yummy teriyaki cuisine that you can eat outside on a picnic table or take to go.
Delish Ethiopian
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
This Ethiopian restaurant has gorgeous handwoven tables that make the traditional food all the more enjoyable.
Emma’s BBQ
website | get directions | cuisine: barbecue | dining options: indoor and outdoor
Emma’s serves up yummy brisket, ribs, pork and more alongside fixings like sweet potatoes and collards.
Massawa Ethiopian Restaurant
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian and Eritrean | dining options: indoor
This is another Ethiopian restaurant where you can see Eritrean influence in the cuisine.
Momona Cafe and Restaurant
website | get directions | cuisine: Eritrean | dining options: indoor
If you want to try a place that goes all in on Eritrean cuisine, this is it.
Safari Njema
website | get directions | cuisine: Kenyan | dining options: indoor
This is the spot to go to try Kenyan food, which isn’t a very common cuisine found in Seattle.
Kent
Altha’s Cajun
website | get directions | cuisine: Cajun | dining options: to go
Altha’s not only serves hot food for when the craving hits, but they also sell a lot of condiments and sauces to enjoy at home.
Action Sports Bar & Grill
website | get directions | cuisine: American | dining options: indoor
Previously called Carriage Square, this is the spot to come when you want no-fuss pub grub.
Cloud 9 Bar & Grill
website | get directions | cuisine: American | dining options: indoor
People are usually surprised to know that this sports bar is best known for their Gringo Tacos.
Ezell’s Fried Chicken
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor
Oprah Winfrey said Ezell’s was her favorite fried chicken, and it’s not wonder why. They make some of the yummiest in the city. You’ll find multiple locations around the Seattle metro area ready to fulfill that fried chicken craving when it hits.
KJ’s Cakery Bakery
website | get directions | cuisine: sweets | dining options: to go
This bakery serves cakes and other baked goods alongside sweets like cotton candy.
Nana’s Southern Kitchen
website | get directions | cuisine: Southern | dining options: to go
Nana’s is where you go when you want a comforting plate of classics like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and cornbread.
Rafiki’s Restaurant & Lounge
website | get directions | cuisine: Kenyan | dining options: indoor and outdoor
People come here for the food, but stay for the late-night DJs.
Wingstop
website | get directions | cuisine: Southern | dining options: indoor
Wingstop has various locations around the city and should be your go-to for chicken wings.
Kirkland
Arleana’s
website | get directions | cuisine: Caribbean-French fusion | dining options: dine-in only
Arleana’s is owned by the same people behind Island Soul in Columbia City. While Island Soul honors owner Theo’s father, Arleana’s honors his mother.
You can expect a fancier vibe than Island Soul, with seafood-forward dishes that blend Caribbean flavors and French techniques. Think bouillabaisse fish soup with plantain butter and lamb lollipops with jerk seasoning.
Pinckney’s Cookie Cafe
website | cuisine: sweets | dining options: delivery only
Pinckney’s is my favorite dessert delivery in Seattle. They serve soft cookies in interesting flavors. Don’t miss the Bing Bling! cookie with Bing cherries. You’ll also find them at a lot of Seattle’s best farmers markets.
Lake City
Ahadu Ethiopian
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
This is one of my favorite Ethiopian restaurants up in North Seattle. Their injera is yummy and their stews extra flavorful.
Enat Ethiopian
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
Enat is right next door to Ahadu and equally as yummy.
Jebena Cafe
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
Jebena has their own market next door so you can purchase ingredients you were inspired by during your meal.
Madison Park
Scoop du Jour
website | get directions | cuisine: American | dining options: indoor
What started as mostly an ice cream spot has since expanded to include burgers.
Madison Valley / Madrona
Cafe Soleil
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
This is the best Ethiopian restaurant to go to if you have people in your group that would prefer to eat the American dishes on their menu.
Maple Leaf
Mojito
website | get directions | cuisine: Caribbean | dining options: indoor and outdoor
This colorful building is a burst of sunshine in a residential part of Seattle. Don’t miss their white fish stews and plantains.
Mt. Baker
Baked From the Hart
website | get directions | cuisine: sweets | dining options: to go
Order head and pick up some of the best pies of your life. Don’t miss the sweet potato pie.
Chicken Express
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor
A family-run chicken and waffles joint.
Emerald City Fish & Chips
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor
Many people argue this is the best fish and chips in the city. I have to agree, as I love their cod and addictive salty fries. They also make a great chowder.
Lil Red Takeout and Catering
website | get directions | cuisine: barbecue | dining options: to go
This place gets a lot of cred for its excellent barbecue, but I can’t wait to try their burger. I hear it’s one of the best burgers in Seattle, but it’s only served Mondays.
The Comfort Zone
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor
This is one of my favorite Black-owned restaurants in Seattle. They serve excellent fried chicken and a to-die-for meatloaf. When we ordered it on the side, they said that’s how the locals always get it. Follow suit!
The Original Philly’s
website | get directions | cuisine: American | dining options: indoor
This is another cheesesteak spot with gooey, bright yellow whiz that looks like the good stuff from the movie theater.
Queen Anne
Geni’s Ethiopian Corner
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: catering
Geni’s focuses on corporate lunches and catering, but also offers meal delivery and is at the farmers market.
New Town Home Style Deli & Market
website | get directions | cuisine: American | dining options: to go
Come here for a quick and satisfying deli sandwich, plus sides and snacks perfect for a picnic.
Rainier Beach
Creamy Cone Cafe
website | get directions | cuisine: ice cream | dining options: to go
This is one of the best Black-owned restaurants in Seattle if you love ice cream.
Drae’s Lake Route Eatery
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor
Enjoy satisfying classics like catfish po’ boys, mashed potatoes, meatloaf, and more.
Kaffa Coffee and Wine Bar
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
Besides serving yummy Ethiopian food, Kaffa is another spot that roasts their own beans.
Local Yokels
website | get directions | cuisine: American | dining options: delivery
This spot is a little different than others on this list in that it’s a grocery store that works with small local producers.
Mama Sambusa Kitchen
website | get directions | cuisine: Somali | dining options: to go
This spot is unique in that it focuses on Somali street food.
Qeerroo Restaurant
website | get directions | cuisine: East African | dining options: indoor
This spot is not only African, but also Halal.
Sunset Cafe
website | get directions | cuisine: Ethiopian | dining options: indoor
An Ethiopian spot that has an army of loyal regulars.
Umami Kushi
website | get directions | cuisine: Japanese | dining options: to go
Umami Kushi focuses on Japanese okazu pans, beignets, and yuzu kosh. You can order them online and pick up at their production facility or find them at multiple retailers across the city. Don’t miss their beef curry pan.
Ravenna/U-District
Pass D Jollof
website | get directions | cuisine: Nigerian | dining options: takeout, delivery, and catering only
Pass D Jollof is serving yummy West African food for those nights you just need some takeout. Their Nigerian recipes have been passed down for generations. Don’t miss the Odogwu Beef Stew, Grandma’s Pie, and roast chicken with jollof rice.
Shoreline
El Cubano
website | get directions | cuisine: Cuban | dining options: to go
This is another great spot for satisfying Cuban sandwiches.
Skyway
Angel City Deli
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor
Unlike most delis that focus on sandwiches, this one focuses on hot plates.
Moon Village Bakery
website | get directions | cuisine: bakery | dining options: delivery
This online-only bakery offers cookie and bread subscriptions in addition to online orders.
SODO
I’ll update this section once I hear about Black-owned restaurants in SODO!
Tukwila
Aaran / Salaama Restaurant & Cafe
website | get directions | cuisine: Somali | dining options: indoor
This restaurant is a bit confusing because Google calls it Aaran, but there’s a sign that says “Salaama” outside. Either way, come here for comforting Somali food.
Juba Restaurant and Cafe
website | get directions | cuisine: East African | dining options: indoor
A bright space serving Ethiopian, Somali, and other East African classics.
Vashon Island
Gravy
website | get directions | cuisine: Southern | dining options: indoor and a few outdoor tables
Gravy is one of the best restaurants on Vashon Island. They serve Southern classics and have certain days that they serve special items, like their smash burger. If it’s on the menu, don’t miss the meatloaf sandwich.
Note, they close over the holiday season, typically opening in February.
Wallingford
Black Magic Sweets
website | get directions (inside Friday Afternoon Tea) | cuisine: pastries | dining options: to go
You can find her sweets in a few different Black-owned restaurants in Seattle, but Friday Afternoon Tea is where she has regular popups.
Ezell’s Fried Chicken
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor
Oprah Winfrey said Ezell’s was her favorite fried chicken, and it’s not wonder why. They make some of the yummiest in the city. You’ll find multiple locations around the Seattle metro area ready to fulfill that fried chicken craving when it hits.
Pam’s Kitchen
website | get directions | cuisine: Caribbean | dining options: indoor
Pam’s Kitchen is one of the first Caribbean restaurants I ever went to and it opened the door for seeking more out given how good it is.
West Seattle
Hot Chocolat
website | get directions | cuisine: confections | dining options: to go
This is more a store, but it’s worth coming here for some yummy confections that I’ve heard is among the best chocolate makers in Seattle.
Jones Barbecue
website | get directions | cuisine: barbecue | dining options: indoor
This is the spot to go when you want comforting, unfussy barbecue.
New Luck Toy
website | get directions | cuisine: Chinese | dining options: indoor
This is one of the best restaurants in West Seattle. They serve Chinese American classics in a funky, bar-like atmosphere. Don’t miss the honey walnut prawns.
Revelry Room
website | get directions | cuisine: cocktails | dining options: indoor
This cocktail bar has snacks and interesting drinks, including non-alcoholic options. They also host DJ dance nights on the weekends.
West Seattle Fish House
website | get directions | cuisine: fish & chips | dining options: to go
You’d never think this spot was a restaurant since it looks more like a small convenience store, but they have a grill where they’re serving yummy fish and chips. Don’t miss the shrimp and fries.
Woodinville
Ezell’s Fried Chicken
website | get directions | cuisine: Soul Food | dining options: indoor
Oprah Winfrey said Ezell’s was her favorite fried chicken, and it’s not wonder why. They make some of the yummiest in the city. You’ll find multiple locations around the Seattle metro area ready to fulfill that fried chicken craving when it hits.
Metier Brewing
website | get directions | cuisine: beer | dining options: indoor and outdoor
This was the first Black-owned brewery in Washington and they’re serving some excellent beer. You’ll also find Umami Kushi’s savory Japanese pastries and food trucks.
Pro tip: Head brew of Metier, Rodney Hines, also leads the beer program at Steelheads Alley located inside Hatback Bar & Grille in SODO. Steelheads Alley pays tribute to the 1946 Steelheads Negro League baseball team.
Seattle Cinnamon Roll Co.
website | get directions | cuisine: sweets | dining options: to go
This spot is high on my list to try because it has drive-through cinnamon rolls. How cool is that?!
Food trucks and pop-ups
Keep an eye on social media to find these food trucks and pop-ups around the city.
Black Star Kebab
website | cuisine: Ghanian | dining options: food truck
This is one of my favorite Black-owned restaurants in Seattle. They serve exceptional Ghanian beach food, such as spicy meat skewers, jollof rice, and awesome fried plantains. You’ll often find them parked outside Ballard breweries.
Jemil’s Big Easy
website | cuisine: Cajun | dining options: food truck
I had amazing shrimp and grits here and can’t wait to go back and try more.
Moe Vegan
website | cuisine: vegan | dining options: food truck
The perfect stop for those looking for vegan restaurants in Seattle or those who are vegan curious.
Swagg-n-Wagon
website | cuisine: Southern | dining options: food truck
Comfort food is the name of the game at this food truck that is most often found in West Seattle. They also have a brick and mortar in Federal Way.
Where Ya at Matt
website | cuisine: New Orleans | dining options: food truck
This is the quintessential Black-owned food truck in Seattle. Owner Matt makes excellent ‘po boys and can be found at semi-permanent locations in both north and south Seattle.
More places to try in Seattle
After you make your way through this list of Black-owned restaurants in Seattle, check out my other guides to eating and drinking around Seattle.
