10 Black-owned restaurants in downtown New Orleans

New Orleans’ deep culinary history has been shaped by Black chefs and kitchen staffers since its very beginnings.

Why it matters: That history has not always been kind, but in today’s New Orleans, you can find Black-owned restaurants, bars and coffee shops across every neighborhood.

The guide: With the return of Essence Fest to New Orleans, we rounded up a list of Black-run establishments for those who are looking to support Black businesses while attending the massive, weekendlong event.

• We focused this list on downtown spots to make it easy to stay close to the fest.
• New Orleans loves its neighborhoods, but we defined “downtown” as between Esplanade Avenue and Calliope Street, and between the river and I-10.

Barrow’s

• 1200 Poydras St., Suite 102.
• A downtown outpost for the legendary restaurant known for its fried catfish.

Chapter IV

• 1301 Gravier St.
• Breakfast, brunch and lunch from the family that brought you Dooky Chase’s.

Compere Lapin

• 535 Tchoupitoulas St.
• Caribbean food with a touch of New Orleans from celebrity chef Nina Compton.

Li’l Dizzy’s

• 1500 Esplanade Ave.
• Creole classics in a family-owned neighborhood joint.

Cafe Sbisa

• 1011 Decatur St.
• Creole cooking in the French Quarter from chef Alfred Singleton, who started as a prep cook and now runs the kitchen as co-owner.

Jewel of the South

• 1026 St. Louis St.
• Home to renowned bartender Chris Hannah and his classic and creative cocktails.

Vyoone’s

• 412 Girod St.
• French flavors in the Warehouse District from a family with deep New Orleans history.

Backatown Coffee Parlour

• 301 Basin St.
• Coffee, pastries and sandwiches on the edge of the Quarter.

Bennachin

• 1212 Royal St.
• Tuck into dishes with roots in Gambia and Cameroon.

Fritai

• 1535 Basin St.
• Haitian cuisine from chef Charly Pierre.

Go deeper: If you’re open to extending your geographical boundaries, there are additional lists of Black-owned businesses you can check out.

• Or join the Where Black NOLA Eats Facebook page for more recommendations.