Black-Owned Businesses to Shop in NYC
New York City’s Black-owned businesses are the backbone of the city’s culture, serving up everything from legendary soul food to indie bookstores stacked with essential reads. These aren’t just places to eat or shop — they’re living, breathing parts of the neighborhoods they call home, shaping the city’s identity one meal, one haircut, and one book at a time. But despite their undeniable impact, Black business owners still face systemic barriers, from rising rents to lack of access to funding, making community support more crucial than ever.
When you’re grabbing a plate of oxtail that tastes like home, sipping coffee at a café that doubles as a creative hub, or getting a shape-up at a barbershop that’s been around for decades, every dollar you spend at a Black-owned business helps keep NYC’s cultural heartbeat strong. And with gentrification pushing out long-standing establishments, showing up and supporting these spots isn’t just a choice — it’s a responsibility. The next time you’re looking for a place to eat, drink, or shop, consider spending your money where it makes a real impact. These businesses deserve the same kind of longevity and success that NYC’s big-name spots get, and that starts with us.
SYLVIA’S RESTAURANT (HARLEM)
If you haven’t been to Sylvia’s, are you even doing New York right? Since 1962, this Harlem institution has been serving up the best soul food in the city, from crispy fried chicken to buttery mac and cheese. More than just a restaurant, Sylvia’s is a piece of Black history, where generations have gathered to eat, celebrate, and keep tradition alive. The walls hold stories of legendary guests, from neighborhood regulars to world-famous icons who’ve stopped in for a plate of true Southern comfort. The Sunday Gospel Brunch is a citywide favorite, filling the room with music, community, and unbeatable food. The menu is stacked with classics, but the peach cobbler is non-negotiable—it’s sweet, warm, and packed with nostalgia. One bite, and it’s easy to see why this Harlem staple has been loved for over 60 years.
THE LIT. BAR (THE BRONX)
If you’re into books, wine, or just good vibes, The Lit. Bar in the Bronx has your name on it. This bookstore puts Black and Latinx voices at the forefront and creates a space where community comes first. It regularly hosts celebrity book signings, with past guests including Taraji P. Henson, Mary J. Blige, Kerry Washington, Eve, Omarion, and Fat Joe. There’s always something happening, from poetry nights to author talks that bring literature to life in a way that feels engaging and personal. The space is cozy yet vibrant, making it the perfect spot to explore new stories, connect with fellow book lovers, or unwind with a glass of wine. Even after the last page is turned, the atmosphere keeps you coming back.
HARLEM CHOCOLATE FACTORY (HARLEM)
Harlem Chocolate Factory takes chocolate to a whole new level, blending sweetness with Harlem’s rich culture. This isn’t just a typical chocolate shop — it’s a tribute to the neighborhood’s history and spirit. Their truffles, inspired by favorites like red velvet cake, and the indulgent “Brownstone Bar” filled with gooey caramel, are just the start. Each chocolate creation tells a story, celebrating Harlem’s vibrancy and soul. The shop elevates the experience of enjoying a treat into something personal and meaningful, reflecting the heart of the community. Every bite is a reminder of the rich history and hustle that make Harlem what it is today. If you’re tempted to skip dessert, think again because these chocolates are truly an experience.
THE CRABBY SHACK (CROWN HEIGHTS)
If you're in Brooklyn and craving some seriously good seafood, The Crabby Shack has got you covered. It’s not just a place to eat — it’s an experience. Run by Fifi Bell-Clanton and Gwen Woods, this spot serves up crab rolls and lobster grilled cheese that’ll leave you wondering why you haven’t been eating like this your whole life. The vibe here is super laid-back, so you can really settle in and enjoy yourself. No need for fancy utensils — just roll up your sleeves, dive in, and let the flavors do the talking. Every bite is packed with fresh, bold flavors that make it impossible not to want more. If you find yourself in Brooklyn, don’t miss out on The Crabby Shack — it’s a seafood lover’s dream.
BLK MKT VINTAGE (BED-STUY)
BLK MKT Vintage isn’t just a shop—it’s a love letter to Black history and culture. Founded by Brooklyn natives Jannah and Kiyanna Handy, the store is a carefully curated archive of Black material history, filled with rare artifacts, vintage magazines, vinyl records, and memorabilia that honor the richness of the Black experience. Every piece in the shop tells a story, preserving moments of joy, resistance, and everyday life that are often erased from mainstream narratives. Walking into the space feels like stepping into a time capsule, where nostalgia and history intersect in a way that’s deeply personal and intentional. The Handys are passionate about keeping Black cultural artifacts within the community, ensuring that these pieces remain accessible to those who truly understand their significance.
Supporting Black-owned businesses in New York isn’t just about spending money — it’s about preserving history, uplifting communities, and making sure these essential spaces don’t disappear. Every book bought from a Black-owned bookstore, every meal shared at a soul food spot, and every haircut from a Black barber contributes to a legacy of entrepreneurship that has been building for generations. But this work doesn’t stop in NYC. Across the country, Black-owned businesses are facing the same struggles, from rising rent costs to natural disasters that threaten to shut them down for good.
In San Francisco, long-standing Black-owned businesses continue to fight for space in an increasingly expensive city, while in Altadena, Los Angeles, the recent Eaton Fire devastated local businesses and displaced families who now need community support more than ever. We’ve put together lists of Black-owned businesses in both cities, along with ways you can support those rebuilding in Altadena after the LA Wildfires. Because at the end of the day, supporting Black businesses isn’t just about great food, books, and services — it’s about making sure these spaces exist for generations to come.
