Check out these Black-owned businesses around Houston

By Chiara Moretti     2/20/24 10:03pm

From restaurants to hair salons, Houston is rich in celebrating Black culture through businesses. Visiting some of these Black-owned businesses may be the best way to celebrate the diversity Houston has to offer. Though Black History month may almost be over, these businesses are open year-round. 

Cool Runnings Jamaican Grill

This award-winning grill has been featured on the Food Network and is one of the most well-known authentic Jamaican restaurants in Houston. Located on Bellfort Avenue, the menu features a wide array of items such as jerk chicken and curry goat. According to food critic Keith Lee, this is some of the best food he has ever had. If you enjoy spicy and affordable Caribbean cuisine, then this restaurant is worth a try. 

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Salon Rose

This salon located in Montrose offers a variety of services such as blowouts, hair coloring and twist braids. With a 4.8 star review on Google, customers report highly regarding the overall atmosphere. Many reviews spoke highly of the customer service with most of the staff treating them kindly. If you’re in need of hair services, then this salon may be the place for you. 

Trez Bistro & Wine Bar 

Voted one of the best wine bars in Houston, this wine bar includes a tasty selection of drinks and appetizers such as cheese, pizza and meatballs. Shawntell McWilliams, owner of Trez, has a strong focus on local partnerships, allowing local Houston artists to display their artwork at the bar. Though this bar is located in Memorial and is strictly 21+, its focus on community and delicious food and beverages may be worth the trip. 

Kindred Stories

This small bookstore was founded by a woman who strived to create a safe place for powerful works written by Black authors. Their mission is to make books accessible to the Third Ward community — a diverse, yet underprivileged neighborhood. If you are a bookworm or desire to read Black literature, then this relaxed bookstore has many options to choose from. 

The Spot 

If you want to “let loose” on a weekend, then this lounge and bar is the place for you. Featuring special theme nights and live music, The Spot provides the sense of community that everyone’s longing for. Located only seven minutes from Rice, this bar is relatively accessible for students (just make sure you have a designated driver). 

Dandelion Cafe  

Though this cafe does have a location in Bellaire, we have one in our very own O’Connor Building. If you haven’t checked out this cafe yet, then you’re quite late to the game. Dandelion has a variety of food and drink items such as coffee, smoothies and chicken and waffles. Starting off as a small coffee shop, owners J.C. Ricks and Sarah Lieberman have since expanded into a full-on restaurant menu. 

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