It's almost time for Black Restaurant Week in Huntsville, and if you didn't know, there are many to choose from to support during this time and throughout the year. With a significant uptick in promoting and supporting Black-owned businesses, this is an opportunity to learn about and try new places and help make sure these establishments stay open.
Black Restaurant Week Huntsville will take place June 9 - June 20, and this year's theme is “Eat. Post. Repeat.” There are several events from a discussion on the food service industry to a black bar crawl they will be hosting.
As more chain restaurants move in, small businesses take a major hit. Movements such as Black Restaurant Week are crucial in helping our local Black-owned businesses remain staples in the community for years to come.
See all of the participating restaurants here.
In preparation for the week, I chatted with Black Restaurant Week Hsv, L.L.C, one of the parties behind organizing the event. I discovered more about what we can expect during the week and why it matters so much.
Zenovia: Who is responsible for organizing this event?
BRW: Black Restaurant Week Hsv, L.L.C. and The Swann Company.
Zenovia: Can you tell us which restaurants are participating?
BRW: All Black-owned Restaurants in the Huntsville area (Tennessee Valley).
Zenovia: Are there any special deals people can take advantage of?
BRW: Each Restaurant is encouraged to do a special as well, which will be determined in the coming weeks.
Zenovia: Why do you think Black Restaurant Week is important?
BRW: Black restaurant owners are small businesses that do not always have the resources to expand their businesses, so this week is a way to bring attention and support to these restaurants.
Zenovia: What do you hope to accomplish with this week?
BRW: We hope to highlight Black-owned restaurants in the community to drive profits, patronage and boost publicity, so those that live in Huntsville are aware that these businesses exist.
Zenovia: Where can people go for more information?
BRW: We have a website, Facebook page, and Instagram account.
Thier website does an incredible job at giving information on why they host this event each year. "Each and every year Black Restaurant Week Huntsville’s main focus is to generate revenue, bring awareness and give support to the movers and shakers in the food industry who have the unique opportunity of keeping Huntsville fed. The Black Restaurant Week will feature and showcase the best of what Huntsville has to serve in the Tennesse Valley.
Black Restaurant Week Huntsville will highlight and invite all the Tastemakers, Restaurant Owners, Club Owners, Chefs, Bar Hopers, Food Connoisseur, Bartenders, Waiters, Waitresses, any other professions associated with this industry and you the consumer. In addition to that, we will have several different events that will educate, empower and entertain the community through food. These events will also be about the importance of licensing, marketing, the high/lows of the food industry and driving revenue up.
Finally, the mission and ultimate goal of Black Restaurant Week is not only to fellowship, eat amazing dishes, drink the best of the best and highlight Black Restaurants and Chefs, but it is to bring awareness, support and drive revenue up for the many black owned small businesses in the Huntsville and surrounding community."
Get your pockets and stomachs ready, and head to some of my favorites this week!
Breakfast
Swing by Dark Side Coffee to get a breakfast sandwhich or stop by their Cereal bar! This locally owned shop is perfect to start your day. I love a Bulldog Bagel to support my AAMU Alma Mater. Read more about this coffee shop here.
Lunch
Who doesn't love the smoky, tender meat that comes from a grill? Paired with your favorite sides and you have the perfect lunch at PB's BBQ.
Dinner
Comfort food in an environment that you can sit back and unwind from the day, yes! The Dish is your spot for food, drinks, and an all-around good time. Be sure to try the collard green egg rolls; they're delicious!
Dessert
What's a day without dessert? Boring! Let Royalty Funnel Cakes add a sweet ending to your day with their large variety of funnel cake creations. You can also check out Regale Cupcakery for some sweet treats!
You can find more on their Facebook and Instagram pages here. Follow and use the hashtags below to stay in the loop. #BRWHSV #EatBlackAllWeek
