In celebration of Black History Month, take a look at the black-owned restaurants in San Francisco and Oakland you must support! Not only can you support local business and show these restaurants some love during these difficult times, but you’ll also get a delicious meal that’s sure to have you coming back for more.

Brown Sugar Kitchen

One of the most talked up restaurants in Oakland is Brown Sugar Kitchen. Their executive chef, Tanya Holland has written two cookbooks: Brown Sugar Kitchen Cookbook and New Soul Cooking. She has also been featured on shows such as Top Chef and Melting Pot along with The Today Show, Vh1’s Soul Cities, Sarah Moulton’s Cooking Live, Ready, Set, Cook! and The Wayne Brady Show. 2295 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612

Buster’s Southern BBQ

Head chef Charles “Buster” Davis of Buster’s Southern BBQ hailing from Shreveport, Louisiana credits his knowledge of food and flavor to his family and his upbringing. Perfecting his recipes along his journey throughout Southern California, he eventually settled in Calistoga to share his delicious food with the people of wine country. 1207 Foothill Blvd, Calistoga, CA 94515

Coconuts

This Palo Alto Caribbean spot is known for its island spirit. With delicious Caribbean cuisine, a wide selection of Caribbean rums and beers, and a welcoming and friendly staff, you cannot go wrong grabbing a bite at Coconuts. Did I mention they also have live music? 642 Ramona St, Palo Alto, CA 94301 

Hazel Southern Bar & Kitchen

Another adored black-owned restaurant in San Francisco is Hazel Southern Bar & Kitchen, and it’s regarded by many as the best southern food in San Francisco. With a great menu including amazing southern cuisine, drinks, and great bar food items Hazel Southern Bar & Kitchen is another culinary gem on this list not to be missed! 1446 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102.

International Smoke

As a fan of Chef Michael Mina and any restaurant he puts his name on, it’s hard not to know that International Smoke will be fabulous. Although I haven’t eaten here, I’ve heard amazing things. I also love to support female founders and chefs, and Michael’s partner is Ayesha Curry. What’s better than amazing food and a great team behind it? 301 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94105

Little Skillet

Little Skillet is one of those restaurants I’ve always heard fabulous things about and have on my bucket list but still haven’t tried. As soon as I can dine out again this will be at the top of my list, especially when I hear everyone rave about their fried chicken (a favorite of mine). 360 Ritch St, San Francisco, CA 94107.

Mission Bowling Club

One of my favorite spots in the Mission is Mission Bowling Club. This black-owned restaurant has one of my favorite burgers in the city and is on the Top 10 San Francisco Best Burger list (found here). What I love about Mission Bowl is their fun atmosphere, I love to go bowl there both for their fun scene and vibe and their great food. 3176 17th St, San Francisco, CA 94110

Ungrafted Wine Bar

Ungrafted Wine Bar is an addition to this list that is admittedly one of my favorites, as I fell in love immediately upon my first visit. Not only is it a special wine bar, but the incredible couple who owns it share an incredible story of their beginnings. Not to mention they offer a fabulous wine list paired with delicious food from my friend, Chef Robert Vallejo. 2419 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94107.

Me my friend, Chef Robert who’s cooking up one of my favorite fried chickens in the city. Read more on my Top 10 Best San Francisco Fried Chicken post here.