Black-owned restaurants to try around Austin
February 21, 2023
In addition to learning about Black history throughout the month of February and beyond, Austinities can pay a visit to local Black-owned businesses, such as restaurants around the city. To highlight some of these establishments, The Daily Texan compiled a list of Black-owned restaurants, from vegan and vegetarian spots to specialized diners, bars and snack stops.
Anyone yearning for a classic treat with a twist may turn to Soul Popped, a brand of Soul food-inspired popcorn. Customers choosing their own destiny may appreciate the create-your-own option, where they can mix and match flavors – including chocolate-covered strawberries, white cheddar and black truffle – to curate a unique kernel treat.
Borrowing its name from a cocktail consisting of half wine and half Coca-Cola, Kalimotxo specializes in Spanish food and drink. Located in downtown Austin, the restaurant and bar serves small portions called pintxos, synonymous with a type of small snack served in Northern Spain. Visitors can socialize in an atmosphere inspired by Spanish bars while nibbling on octopus or sipping almond gazpacho.
John Paul Udenenwu concocts dessert pancakes with a rotational menu, leaving sweet-toothed customers with a new favorite flavor each month. Indulge before February ends to taste the churro, a treat including cinnamon, dulce de leche syrup and Nutella.
Austin proves an ideal location for a breakfast and lunch spot based around one of Texas’ most beloved carbs: biscuits. If in the mood for a lighter bite, customers can experience a Southern sugar rush with a biscuit donut hole. For anyone expecting a full stomach and a fiery tongue once they walk out the door, a spiced chicken breast sandwiched between two biscuits may ease their appetites.
This food truck brings plant-based alternatives to Southern comfort cuisine. Embrace Community Vegan’s maple aromas of the chickenless chicken and waffles made from deep fried mushrooms and served with a garnish of fruit. Seafood fans may dive into the “I Used to Eat Fish” filet sandwich, complete with vegan cheese and waffle fries. Customers seeking to flaunt their favorite food truck may purchase merchandise including a crop top, tote bag or apron adorning owner Marlon Rison’s face.
At casual fine dining establishment Diner Bar, chefs keep customers in constant suspense with their revolving menus. Executive chef Mashama Bailey excels in delivering Southern classics from an elaborate lens, with the menu currently consisting of treats like foie and grits, chicken fried quail and buttermilk panna cotta.
Just short of a mile from campus, Aster’s Ethiopian Kitchen serves entrees for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, such as Kitfo, a steak tartare dish, and Bedergan, an eggplant-based entree with tomato sauce, onions and garlic. Wash down Aster’s delicacies with Ethiopian coffee or hot tea.
