Delicious Black Owned Restaurants in Portland: 30+ Spots to Seriously Get Your Grub On

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**UPDATED: November 2024**

*If you want to get right to the Black owned restaurants in Portland reccs, use the table of contents

The second I saw Portland, a crushing fear of never being able to eat good soul food washed over me. As I scrolled through the food recommendations of multiple travel bloggers who have visited on press trips, the “top restaurant lists” published by local food critiques and magazines, and even places my friends and coworkers visited…I noticed a stark lack of soul food. Where were the collard greens? Why does the mac and cheese look like that? Can a sista get some ham hocks up in these piece?? I mean, I know Portland is the whitest major city in America and all – BUT DANG, there’s gotta be at least SOME Black owned restaurants in Portland.

Like I mentioned before, trying to find good soul food, let alone ANY Black owned restaurants in Portland was HARD. When I tried googling, the results were inconclusive. “BIPOC” owned doesn’t necessarily mean Black. Existing lists of Black owned restaurants in Portland (and Oregon in general) were unhelpfully outdated with the most minimal details ever. A good chunk of the places weren’t even open anymore. And basically all of them were just the same regurgitated content; I bet the writers hadn’t even gone to half of the Black owned restaurants in Portland, so why should I take their word on it??

Thankfully, I slowly began to find my community. From the Come Thru Farmers Market to the Know Your City walking tour (now closed) that highlighted Black history in Portland, I heard of great restaurants through the grapevine, as well as local Black small businesses who are famous for shouting out MORE businesses.

All I want to say is THAnK GOD for social media.

But I suppose I’m getting off track – long story short, I found a bunch of dope Black owned restaurants in Portland and I’d love to share them with you! I’ve also eaten at all of them, so you’re getting an honest and genuine review of these restaurants.

**THIS POST IS NOT SPONSORED**

I paid for every single meal myself. I was not paid. I was not hosted. I was not given free food at any of them.

Overview of Black Owned Restaurants in Portland

At first, I debated on how I wanted to split up these Black owned restaurants in Portland. Should I group them by cuisine? Food cart vs sit down? Vegan vs meat heavy? I had previously grouped by neighborhood, but I’m mixing it up this year and grouping by the general “theme” of these Black owned restaurants in Portland.

MOST restaurants in Portland will at least have one or two vegan options, but for this list of Black owned restaurants in Portland, I’ll be noting ones that have at least a handful (4+) so you can go back and try more things on the menu.

These are my personal favorite Black owned restaurants in Portland. While I like to believe I have a pretty solid taste level, I do want to remind everyone that taste is subjective. If you don’t see your fav listed, it’s nothing personal against you or the restaurant. I probably just haven’t been to them yet (IM LOOKING AT YOU PO’SHINES!!!! WHEN ARE YOU OPEN?!?!?!?) or they’ve recently reopened after moving/closing and I haven’t been back yet (Nacheaux), or they’re just next up on my never ending list of Black owned restaurants in Portland (Reo’s Ribs)! Again, I am just one girl with a full time job.

Breakfast: Black Owned Restaurants in Portland

We GOTTA start the day off right with these incredible Black owned restaurants in Portland serving breakfast! Breakfast is probably my favorite meal of the day, and these spots keep the entire city fueled with seasoning!

Mermosa

**temporarily closed**

brick and mortar – 1422 NW 23rd Ave (NE/Slabtown)

A newer restaurant, but already one of my favorite places to get breakfast in Portland. Honestly, it’s one of my favorite restaurants in the city…period. It’s fairly close to where I live, so I do go quite frequently, so that’s just an added bonus for me. The restaurant is has a nautical/mermaid vibe, a nod to the name, and loosely follows a Southern and Haitian inspired menu.

Since it is in a popular part of town, parking can be difficult to find, but the space at Mermosa is large so it’s the perfect place for a birthday or celebration brunch. Plus, you can come back in the evenings when Mermosa transforms into a lively community space that hosts Wednesday wine nights, live music, and even chef pop-ups!

Fuel Cafe

brick and mortar – 1452 NE Alberta St (NE)

gluten-free options, vegan/vegetarian options

I love Fuel Cafe AND they’re located in the Alberta District, sone of Portland’s historic Black neighborhoods. It is a little on the smaller side, but you can usually get a table without too much of a wait. Fuel Cafe definitely has a “local gem” vibe, so if you want to visit a place that’s a little more lowkey and feels like “old school Portland,” I recommend Fuel Cafe.

They have great seasoning and their menu also carries over to a VERY delicious lunch menu, so if you sleep in a bitttt, they’ll still have you covered. Insider tip: Fuel Cafe is one of the few places in Portland offering baked grits. It’s a game changer. Order it.

Grits N’ Gravy

brick and mortar – 215 SW 6th Ave (downtown)

Grits N’ Gravy is a VIBE!! Downtown doesn’t have too many Black owned restaurants in Portland, which is unfortunate, but Grits N’ Gravy is holding it DOWN. As you can see from the picture, they serve PORTIONS, even when it comes to avocado, so if you’re someone who likes to eat hearty for brunch, this is my top recommendation. The place isn’t huge, but they have a lot of seating. I say that because the tables are close together so, just a heads up.

Their menu is large, but don’t be intimidated. They focus on Southern American comforts, so you’ll feel like you’re eating at your granny’s house. They can also host events (private and public) and special group reservations if you want a designated spot for a large crowd.

Kiss Coffee

brick and mortar – 2800 NE Liberty St Building B0856 (NE, closer to airport)

I usually hit up Kiss Coffee when I’m looking for a workspace cafes in Portland when I want to get some writing done because they have massive tables (no internet tho, pros and cons to that), but they also have fantastic coffee and breakfast! If you’re just looking for a quick drink and pastry, there is a window you can order at and patio seating. However you can also head inside to eat!

I’m a sucker for their sandwiches because they are SO customizable, even the breakfast sandwiches. It’s a really cool lowkey spot, and if I can squeeze it in, I try to stop by whenever I’m leaving or heading to the Portland Airport (PDX).

American Cuisine: Black Owned Restaurants in Portland

The bulk of the Black owned restaurants in Portland will fall under this umbrella because…well we’re in America. So these establishments will range from cooking American classics like pizza, burgers, and other staples, to more regional flavors like Southern (yummmm).

Erica’s Soul Food

food cart – 101 SE 12th Ave, (SE, seating available)

vegan/vegetarian options

(working on opening a juke joint – support the gofundme here!)

If I had to describe the vibe of Erica’s Soul Food, it very much gives Black Thanksgiving in a bowl.

Once you try it, you’ll know what I mean.

They have a few bowls to choose from (my go-to order), but they also have some of the BESTTT chicken wings in the Portland, so you might as well pick those up too! My favorite wing sauce issss the ATL wet lemon pepper (how could you top that??). In the words of Andre 3000, “The Souf got somethin to say!”

Also as a special nod, the owner, Erica Montgomery, also hosted vaccination days on site, with a special focus on getting Black and brown folks vaccinated and informed about COVID-19. They are also a passionate advocate for human rights, both here and globally. So many Black owned restaurants in Portland really go above and beyond for the community. That’s what I mean when I say Black owned restaurants in Portland is more than just a business owner for their patrons.

Fusion Filly Cheesesteak

food cart – 5800 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd (NE, seating available)

Located in the same food pod as Fish Fusion, Fusion Filly was a gem I found while I was actually looking for another food cart (Soul Bowl, but I believe they’ve closed down). I want to start out by saying the owner is one of the NICEST WOMEN I’VE EVER MET. Truly, like she radiates kindness and compassion from her eyes like a glow lamp. I also appreciate that she has daily $5 specials that include a meat option (with fries!) and a drink. Seriously, thanks for keeping it affordable for your regulars.

Yes, after one visit, I already knew I was going to be a regular.

Pictured above is one of the $5 daily specials; that day happened to be pork chop day. Y’all. If there’s pork chop on the menu when you visit – GET IT. It make look unassuming, but trust me it’s delicious and FRESHLYYYY fried. Expertly seasoned as well. Utensils and condiments are included, which makes it easy if you’re in a rush or eating on the go! I don’t know any other place in Portland that even serves pork chops, let alone GOOD pork chops. But I knew the Black owned restaurants in Portland would have my back.

Heavy Playz

brick and mortar – 901 N Anchor Way (far N Portland)

Ngl, Heavy Playz is one of my favorite casual restaurants in Portland point-blank-period. Their food is SO GOOD, like I made a reel THAT DAY in my car right after leaving the restaurant. They have a pretty sizeable menu, and so far everything I’ve tasted has been an 11/10 which is a FEAT for any spot with more than like…10 things on the menu!

My favorite thing to order is one of the their basket meals, since I’m usually swinging by for lunch, but their pastas and soul food dinners are so hearty and flavorful that it’s my top recommendation menu-wise. It’s very family friendly and even has high chairs for the little ones dining in. Since they do have a lot of space, I also recommend Heavy Playz for birthdays, large meetups, and celebration dinners.

Ja’Das Soulful Eatz

brick and mortar – 4200 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd (NE)

food cart – 7339 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd (NE, seating available)

I spotted Ja’Das Soulful Eatz TWICE before I actually ate there. Once, while I was eating at Gourmet Brothers Grill and I spotted their food cart, though it was closed at the time. The second was on my way to the food cart pod that houses Fish Fusion and Fusion Filly (lol truly I’m obsessed with them).

You know how they say there’s no such thing as coincidences or whateva?

I knew I needed to check out Ja’Das at THE VERY NEXT POSSIBLE OPPORTUNITY. I ordered ahead to pick up, though when I arrived they were very fast at getting everyone served. The restaurant feels familial and wholesome, and stepping in feels like you’re going over for a cookout with the cousins. There are a fewwww tables indoors, but I’m assuming they will expand more in the future. I visited on National Fried Catfish Day, so obvi I go their fried catfish plate with two sides.

Similar to the atmosphere of the restaurant, the food holds that same level of comfort. Though, I will say their mac and cheese surprised me, and actually has one of the most interesting and innovated mac and cheese out of all the Black owned restaurants in Portland. I liked the lil extra surprise from it! Side note – their toast is to DIE FOR. Like many Black owned restaurants in Portland, they also do catering.

I haven’t been to their newer food cart location (yet!) but I’m sure they’re serving up the same amazing flavors there too!

V’s Soul Food Shack

food cart – 4549 NE 60th Ave (far NE, seating available)

I had heard such amazing things about V’s Soul Food – like seriously AMAZING, and one of the most reviewed spots on this list of Black owned restaurants in Portland. Along with Kee’s, it’s a soul food staple in town! Buuut when I finally got the chance to eat there (aka I was in the area and had time to stop), I wasn’t actually that hungry. SO, I didn’t get to try everything, but I did order a small bowl of gumbo and a hot link sandwich (not pictured).

The food cart pod has a few options, but V’s Soul Food is a bit separated from the rest and has its own seating area. Now, I am a gumbo snob. I cannot and WILL NOT tolerate bad gumbo. V’s did me soliddd. It has the perfect amount of seasoning, with all the fixings, AND even a little baby bit of a kick. And the hot link sandwich…was a hot link sandwich. It was also good and def hit the spot! I can’t wait to go back and try their ribs next!

Assembly Brewing

brick and mortar – 6112 SE Foster Rd (SE)

Vegan/Vegetarian options

I’m MAAAAD it took me so long to finally get to Assembly Brewing. Not only is it one of the best Black owned restaurants in Portland, but it was also the FIRST Black owned brewery in the city!! Which is probably why it wasn’t originally on my radar (I don’t like beer at all). When I walked in though, almost everyoneee had a pint in hand – and in a city KNOWN for it’s microbrews, you KNOW that means it’s a good spot.

Assembly Brewing is a Detroit-pizza spot. Coincidentally, I had never had Detroit-style pizza before.

I am forever a changed woman.

The pizza is delicious, with THE BESTTTT crust I’ve ever had in my entire life. No cap. And to top it all off, there’s great outdoor dining, and indoor dining has a great view of the mural on the walls. The staff at Assembly Brewing are AMAZING, even with me fumbling around and dropping everything (they came over like 3 times to help me *cry emoji*). This is hands down now one of my favorite pizza joints to hang with friends. They’re opening a second location on Alberta soon!

LoRell’s Chicken Shack

food cart – 5235 NE Sandy Blvd (NE, seating available)

Babieeeeeeeeeeee the best thing I ever did was eat at LoRell’s Chicken Shack. Holy crap are they one of THE BEST Black owned restaurants in Portland, and one of my new favorite fast eateries! They also introduced me to a load of other amazing businesses in their food cart pod, so for that I am eternally grateful.

LoRell’s is beloved by so many people, so it’s definitely a local gem that you’ll want to try in Portland. The thing to get here are the wings, imo, though their tenders are popular as well. I’ve just never been strong enough to resist the wings lol. You won’t find their hot honey flavor ANYWHERE ELSE in Portland, so be sure to get you some whenever you’re on Sandy. In fact, lemme go get some right now…

Joe Brown’s Lounge

brick and mortar – 5601 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd (NE)

I’m slowly putting together my blog post on Black owned BARS in Portland, so best believe Joe Brown’s Lounge is gonna be on it! If the name sounds familiar, you might recognize them from their iconic kettle corn spot in the Lloyd Center Mall. They’re still going strong there, but they recently opened their own brick and mortar shop for their popcorn on MLK, and right next to it…the lovely accompanying lounge!

It has a sports bar vibe with outstanding food. I mean, yes, the drinks are wonderful too, but WOW yes the food really puts Joe Brown’s Lounge up there with the best Black owned restaurants in Portland! So far, I’ve only had their burgers and sandwiches, but my friend’s birthday is planned there and I will definitely be trying their salmon dinner! Plus, they also do catering!

Trap Kitchen

brick and mortar – 8 NW 6th Ave (downtown)

I am sooo so happy that I live within driving distance of Trap Kitchen. There are a few of them now across the country, though it was originally founded in Compton, California (LA County representtttt!!!). The Portland location opened back in 2018 as a food cart. It’s one of the most iconic Black owned restaurants in Portland, and they now have a brick and mortar downtown.

There is honestly not a single thing on this menu that I don’t recommend, so pick whatever sounds best to you. Mini warning though, some of their sauces can be on the spicier side if you don’t have a high spice tolerance. I thought it was perfect though, and I typically have a lower spice tolerance.

Steakadelphia

brick and mortar – 5835 SE Powell Blvd (SE)

This might seem like a wild fact, but I had my first philly cheesesteak at this restaurant. Like…two years ago. I KNOW, ITS WILD. But, my mom had her favorite cheesesteak spot in LA, so I’m not surprised I found a great one at one of the Black owned restaurants in Portland. One day I’ll finally go to Philly to taste it from the homeland….

But I digress.

Steakadelphia is a super local spot, and you can tell a lot of their customers are locals who have been coming for YEARS. As a newbie, the staff was super helpful in helping me pick out a sandwich, and they’re SUPER nice. But of course, it all comes down to the taste right? Y’all. IT WAS DELICIOUS. I truly truly wish that my photography skills were better, but honestlyyy I don’t think ANYONE can capture its magnificence. If you’re looking for a cheesesteak – do yourself a favor. Come here.

Mumbo Gumbo

food cart – 1825 N. Williams Ave (NE, seating available)

I actually haven’t been since their recent move to Williams, but I am SOOO glad they are closer to me now, so I’ll definitely be hitting them up more often! The are one of the best Black owned restaurants in Portland! Their menu is all Southern inspired, with delicious rolls and hot links. Though, their real stand-out is, as the name suggests, their gumbo! It’s very much so build-your-own, and they can also make vegan gumbo as well (though I haven’t had that yet).

Although we are talking about food, I also want to highlight how good their DRINKS are. And I’m not talking alcoholic either, just a good ol’ fashion drink that pairs amazingly with your food. They have the classic sweet tea, but to take it one step above and beyond, I’d recommending doing their dulce de leche tea. TRUST ME. If you want gumbo for an event you’re hosting, they also do catering! Wooo!!

Norma Jean’s Soul

brick and mortar – 4636 NE 42nd Ave (NE)

One of the newer Black owned restaurants in Portland, but DEFINITELY already making waves in the food community! If I could describe Norma Jean’s in one word, it would be: SEASONED!!! Wow, I hadn’t had Cajun seafood pasta like this since I spent the summer in Louisiana (like…back in 2010 don’t ask me for recs I was a minor lol).

Along with cooking up amazing food, they have also started special themed nights and get-togethers based around different events. If you love music and socializing, Norma’s is the spot. Highly recommend following them on social media so you can stay up to date on all the latest events! The owner is so nice and even now they are continuing to build their menu and adapt their space to best fit and service the community, so get in now so you can enjoy their growth just like I am!

Kee’s #Loaded Kitchen

food cart – 3625 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd (NE, no seating)

I thought the people were lying when they told me eating here would be a group activity.

They were not lying.

Y’all need to bring fo’ five friends along with you when you get Kee’s Loaded Kitchen. These are GROUP PLATES okay. I got the smallest plate, and we couldn’t finish everything between three people. The chicken itself is absolutely delicious, and the plates come with basically all of the sides (though they were out of greens by the time I showed up *cry emoji*). Incredible bread pudding and the mac and cheese was good too! This is definitely the Black owned restaurants in Portland to go to if you’re having friends over.

There doesn’t seem to be muchhhh seating near the cart. There was one picnic table between Kee’s Loaded Kitchen and another cart in that lot, but I wouldn’t count on it being open. Kee’s is also probably one of the most popular Black owned restaurants in Portland, so expect a little bit of a wait.

Atlas Pizza

brick and mortar – various locations

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

I think Atlas Pizza is one of the only (co-) Black owned restaurants in Portland that have become somewhat of a chain? There are three locations, though I’ve only been to the one in SE (not Division because #parking). What I love about Atlas Pizza though is that you can order pizza BY THE SLICE. I’m always zipping and running around town, so it’s really nice to be able to grab something on the go that I can eat relatively fast. Honestly, it’s my favorite by-the-slice pizza joint, and I’m not just saying that because it’s part of this Black owned restaurants in Portland post, haha.

However, if you opt for a whole pizza, their specialties are bombbb. And at a really great price too! I always appreciate how friendly and accommodating the staff are. Seriously, you could be from another planet and have never had pizza in your life and they will talk you through every item on the menu! Love that they go the extra mile to make sure you enjoy your meal!

Right Bayou Cajun Cuisine

food cart – moves around

So Right Bayou is a food cart, but they operate more like a pop-up so it’s always an exciting surprise to learn where they’ll be next. I had their food for the first time last year at the Come Thru Market, and let me tell ya, it’s some GOOOOD New Orleans Cuisine. I mean, I don’t personally like beans, but I know good red beans and rice when I taste the gravy okay??

And my bf like devoured the beans I didn’t eat with the rice, so I know it was properly vetted hahha. I honestly wish I had a better picture (well, for all of these amazing Black owned restaurants in Portland tbh), because mine just does not do it proper justice. To top it off, the owner, Theron Mayeux, is such a ray of light. Seriously, one of the brightest personalities you will ever meet! They also do catering!

Sweet Street Barbeque

brick and mortar – 1505 NE Alberta St (NE)

Truly one of the OG’s in the Black owned restaurants in Portland space, I HAD to give it up for Sweet Street Barbeque for holding it down for so long! They are a humble little spot, selling up BBQ plates that’ll send you down memory lane of eating BBQ with the fam on your cousin’s 6th birthday party. The owner is really sweet (so that’s where they get their name!) and is always speaking up and speaking out for other Black owned restaurants in Portland and the surrounding metro areas!

Seafood: Black Owned Restaurants in Portland

The Drip’N Crab

food cart – 1015 SE Stark Street (SE, seating available)

YOOOOOO!!!

Okay, even before I get into the amaze that is DRIP’N CRABBB, I want to say it is in one of the BEST food cart pods in Portland. Seriously, y’all need to go and just eat everything. AND it has one of the most delicious Black owned restaurants in Portland, which also happens to be one of the only seafood boil spots as well! IN THE WHOLE CITY. This is a SPOT.

So yah. Drip’N Crab is a pretty big deal. When I visited, I got the smallest portion (Alberta Grab Bag) and added shrimp, but honestly you’re gonna want MORE. The shrimp especially hits, and even the corn and potatoes leave no room for blandness. This place had me smackin like Mr. Jones from Friday. Next time, I’m definitely gonna need more crab legs.

Their new location is within the Lil America Food Pod, which…just might be my favorite food pod in Portland. So bring the whole gang and y’all can all chow down!

42nd Ave Fish and Chips

brick and mortar – 5302 NE 42nd Ave (NE…on 42nd…VERY spot on name haha)

This Black owned restaurant in Portland reminds me of my grandpapa 🥺

42nd Ave Fish and Chips will really take you back. It’s a humble spot over on the NE side that has some of the best fried fish in the city. And their menu is pretty extensively fried fish, shrimp, and other seafood, which is why I have it in the seafood section. I also love their sides, ESPECIALLY the mac and cheese, so you can get your fried fish and a side for a very affordable price.

Plenty of parking and the restaurant has ample space indoors as well.

Diaspora: Black Owned Restaurants in Portland

WOWWW, if you’re looking for Black owned restaurants in Portland that cover cuisines from Africa and the diaspora…you’re in for a true TREAT. That said, I won’t be listing ALL of them, but not because they aren’t all amazing, but just because I haven’t been to all of them yet AND I’m planning separate blog posts for Caribbean restaurants in Portland and African restaurants in Portland. Don’t worry, they’re coming soon!

Kann

brick and mortar – 548 SE Ash St (SE)

Gluten free, Pescatarian Options

OH MANNNNN. For my first introduction to Kann, I had the immense pleasure (and privilege honestly) to eat at Kann during their winter pop-up/temporary restaurant and y’all.

It blew my mind.

And honestly, also expensive hahah. I never thought the most expensive meal in my life would’ve been one of the Black owned restaurants in Portland, but here we are. The world moves in mysterious ways.

But anyways, I’m blabbering. Kann has since opened their brick and mortar and has gone on to be awarded in almost every major food publication – and CONTINUES TO DO SO. And rightfully so. I would classify Kann’s food as Haitian fine-dining. If that peaks your interest, IT SHOULD. It’s personally one of my favorite fancy date night restaurants in Portland.

I will say, reservations are STILL hard to get, but I have a few tips for ya as someone who scores reservations at least three times a year. Reservations drop on the 2nd of each month for the following month’s dates (ex: on Feb 2nd, reservations for March will open). Make sure to be there ON THE DOT, especially if you have a big group, for the best chance of grabbing a reservation because they book up in under 5 minutes.

If you don’t book a reservation in advance, follow their instagram page as they usually post cancellations and open reservations the week of (when people cancel). They also occasionally announce in-person reservation drops at various other small businesses in Portland for local residents, so again, make sure you’re tuned into their IG!

Lastly, if you still don’t get a reservation, you can always visit their bar Sousòl downstairs! It’s first come first serve, and while they don’t have FULL entrees, their sharable bites are just as delicious and there’s quite a few to choose from!

Akadi

brick and mortar – 1001 SE Division St (SE)

vegan/vegetarian options

As I’m updating this post, it dawned on me that I am literally going to Akadi tomorrow night haha. But honestly THAT’S HOW GOOD IT IS. If you live in Portland, it’s my go-to for a more casual but still very nice date night restaurant. The vibe is so fun and intoxicating (and also, the drinks are good too!) that you always leave feeling full of both food and light. They are another of the fantastic Black owned restaurants in Portland that have been nominated for national awards!

If you’ve never had West African cuisine, there are a few restaurants in Portland, but I recommend you start at Akadi! They have such a range of dishes that you can really get a taste for everything (ALSO recommend going in a group so you can try everything!). Another reason I love Akadi is that they are a hub for the community and are regularly hosting events such as live music, jazz nights, afrobeat listening parties, open poetry and spoken word, like…you can really find your community at Akadi!

Tap Tap Cuisine

brick and mortar – 3434 NE Sandy Blvd Suite 400 (NE)

Honestly, finding Tap Tap Cuisine has made me also want to put together a Haitian restaurants in Portland blog post because it is just THAT GOOD. Who knew Portland had such amazing Haitian food??? Anyways, it’s right along Williams Ave, which is full of cute boutique shops, fitness studios, and even juice bars in Portland, so it’s another extremely one of the super convenient Black owned restaurants in Portland.

They have a great menu of Haitian classics, but be careful of your eyes being bigger than your stomach because they have very hearty portions! Buuuut even if you order (arguably) too much like I do, you’ll still eat it all because it is just that delicious. I also appreciate that they have covered seating and even enclosed seating (with a space heater) cuz it isn’t always Sunny in Portlandia. Thank you Tap Tap!!

Jamaica House

brick and mortar – 8307 N Ivanhoe St (N)

Vegetarian options

Y’all. There are a surprisingggg amount of Jamaican restaurants in Portland. In the effort of time (and space, this post is getting long!), I’ve made the conscious decision to only include one (Jamaica House) in this list of Black owned restaurants in Portland since it is the only one that I’ve been to on the west side. However, for more delicious Jamaican restaurant recommendations, check out my list of Caribbean restaurants in Portland (coming soon).

There’s free street parking and you’ll notice the restaurant by the fun colors painted on the outside. Tons of outdoor and indoor seating, and it really just makes you feel at home. I showed up like 2 minutes after opening, so the dish I wanted (chicken curry) wasn’t ready yet (note to everyone wanting curry!!).

BUT. The OX TAIL. Can y’all believe it was my first time eating ox tail???? Ya girl’s all grownt up now!!

Anyways, it was delicious. Fall riiight off the bone, with plenty of juice. I’m rude (and also socially anxious), so I forgot to ask for the owner’s name, but he told me he grew up in Ochos Rios, and loves animals. As I learned when his fluffy bunny Apollo hopped around in the outside garden. Make sure to pair your meal with one of the many Jamaican sodas, teas, and bevvies!

Fusion: Black Owned Restaurants in Portland

These Black owned restaurants are unique because not only do they bring great flavors to the table, but it’s also presented in a new and exciting way. They will open your minds AND your stomachs!

Viking Soul Food

brick and mortar – 4422 SE Woodstock Blvd (far SE/Woodstock)

food cart – 4255 SE Belmont St (SE, seating available)

Imma be honest, I’m not usuallyyyy the biggest fan of Norwegian food. But, I went in with an open mind – and I’m glad I did! Viking Soul Food is one of the Black owned restaurants in Portland that have been around for a GOOD MINUTE. The food cart is located in a cute little food pod, with tons of seating, covered and uncovered! They also opened a brick and mortar “fairly recently” so be sure to check them out in Woodstock as well!

I’m basic, so my favorite dish are the meatballs, but they also have lil wraps, smoked salmon, bread, salad…the whole work!

It’s also one of the only spots to get Norwegian food in Portland, so it’s nice that you can go to a place that’s super friendly and also has interesting dishes. If they have it on the menu, please please pleaseee get their seafood chowder! It’s divine.

Beastro

brick and mortar – 1455 Southwest Broadway (downtown)

Owned by Marshawn Lynch, American actor and former football running back who played in the National Football League for 12 seasons (mostly for the Seattle Seahawks), Lynch is somewhat of a local celebrity. Seeing as his nickname is “Beast mode,” it’s no surprise that his restaurant is named after him as Beastro. It’s located inside the Hotel Vance, but don’t be intimidated, you don’t have to be a hotel guest to visit. Just walk right on in!

The reason why I put Beastro under the fusion category is because their menu is split. During the mornings, Beastro is a Hawaiian Island Style-Asian Fusion brunch spot, which I’ve heard rave reveiws, but unfortunately have not made it in time for brunch yet. In the afternoon, Beastro transitions into Korean dinner, with all the bulgogi, nurungji tang, and Korean ramen you can eat! Also, I do want to note that Beastro has a FANTASTIC happy hour (2pm-4:30pm) and would be the perfect meet-up spot for drinks!

Amalfi’s Italian Restaurant

brick and mortar – 4703 NE Fremont St (NE)

Okay it’s…technically not fusion, but yanno what I didn’t want to make a new category so we’re gonna reach and say it’s…American Italian fusion because HELLO!! Amalfi’s is an Italian restaurant! I don’t eat Italian often, but Amalfi’s is such a staple on Fremont, one of my favorite areas to shop and dine. It’s one of the most conveniently located Black owned restaurants in Portland!

They have a fantastic outdoor dining area, which makes it a great spot to catch up with a large group of friends or celebration events, or you can opt for a more intimate experience indoors. Personally, I recommend their pizzas and caesar salads – classic Italian American cuisine! I’ve also heard amazing things about their tiramasu, but since I don’t like chocolate OR coffee (I knowww I knowww), I’m gonna have to take the public’s word on it!

Vegan: Black Owned Restaurants in Portland

It’s Portland, so it’s only right that a vegan category is included!!! Now, I don’t like most vegetables, or plant-based protein to be honest, but when prepared with the right amount of flavor and sauce, it is amazing. So for fellow vegan-hesitant diners, these Black owned restaurants in Portland know how to THROW DOWNNN some good vegan plates! And I mean FULLY vegan.

Dirty Lettuce

brick and mortar – 4727 NE Fremont St (NE)

I just want to say their sides are UNTOUCHABLE. This is Southern/Cajun cuisine, so if you’re sensitive to pepper and seasonings…it might be a little strong for you, but gosh darn for everyone else you will lose your mind over the sides.

Hands down, my favorite collard greens in Portland. HANDS DOWN. I’ve only been once, and since I don’t like soy, the ribs weren’t my favorite, but since then I’ve learned that oyster mushrooms are good so I’ll have to try their “chicken” next! On that note, if you have hesitations around vegan protein options, they are MORE than helpful to explain their taste and textures to you!

Side note, one thing that I love about a lot of Black owned restaurants in Portland – a lot of them are vegan or have veggie options!

CoKiea’s Kitchen

food cart – 5235 NE Sandy Blvd (NE, seating available)

Oh you want more vegan Black owned restaurants in Portland?? I GOTCHU!! Another fully vegan spot is CoKiea’s Kitchen, part of the Rose City Food Park! Cokiea’s has a vibrant menu that is a mix of home comforts (lasagna, gumbo, mashed potatoes) and tasty finger foods (tacos, burgers, pulled jack sandwiches). But no matter what you order, it’ll leave your tummy AND HEART feeling warm <3

They also offer catering! Similar to many vegan establishments, CoKiea’s is also one of the Black restaurants in Portland that prides itself on sustainability and using produce from local farms to do their part on contributing to a healthier planet and community.

 Sugar Daddy’s Vegan

(pop up – working on opening a permanent spot, support the gofundme here!)

I cannot even begin to explain how long I had been tracking Daddy’s and trying to get my grubby hands on their wings. I mean, yanno, I try to eat at all the fantastic Black owned restaurants in Portland, but see, Daddy’s Vegan Wangz operates as a pop-up (for now) and I have a very DEMANDING work schedule. It’s been HARD. But finally, I got me some.

And they LIVED UP TO MY ALREADY HIGH EXPECTATIONSSS!!! Not only is Daddy’s Vegan Wangz one of the best vegan Black owned restaurants in Portland, but just one of the best in general. Their flavors pack a punch and are so creative and different that you really can’t find it ANYWHERE else in the city. I’m so excited for them to eventually get a permanent spot!!

Past Black Owned Restaurants in Portland

However, this list of Black owned restaurants in Portland is always changing and updating. For whatever reason, I do want to give a shoutout to those iconic spots that are no longer in operation. We miss you, but also hope you are doing fantastic in all your future endeavors! <3

• ThiccBoi
• Union Burger
• PoBoyz Cajun Creole Kitchen
• Everybody Eats PDX
• A Heavenly Taste
• Selena’s Custom Kitchen (now does catering)
• Fish on a Stick
• Shelly’s Kitchen (former Finer Things Catering brick and mortar)
• Cannon’s Rib Express
• Momo Master
• Fish Fusion

Catering by Black Owned Restaurants in Portland

Still looking for more food from Black owned restaurants in Portland? SURPRISE, there are a TON of catering offered by Black owned restaurants in Portland! While many of the Black owned restaurants in Portland that I listed above ALSO do catering, I wanted to this section to focus on catering-exclusive spots and establishments that don’t yet have a permanent home to try their food!

Try booking one of these Black owned restaurants in Portland for your next event!

Personal Chefs!

• Taste + Color: In home Chef experience (great for romantic nights in or dinner parties!). Chef Michelle Rabelo, aka Chef Momo, tailors 4-6 course meals as well as a cooking workshop experience.
• Kitchen Killa: Chef Kiara can do it ALL, from making custom menus, to giving private classes, to being a culinary consultant, to -of course- being your private chef.

Catering Companies

• Calabash, Authentic: West African cuisine by Chef ​Madeleine T and Chef Julius. Vegan options.
• PDX Munch Time: Cajun/Creole cuisine by Chef Ceejay.
• Selena’s Custom Kitchen: Loved their food truck and they have now transitioned into catering
• HeavyWeights BBQ: BBQ and sides by Chef Larry Myles and Chef Alexis Frazier. (food cart/restaurant coming soon!!! Love them and can’t wait to move them up to the restaurant section when they do!)
• DB Dessert Company: Desserts, pastries and custom cakes (including wedding cakes and tastings!).
• Baker Ghoul Magic: Specializes in vegan desserts, pastries, and cakes.
• Bishop & Sons: Baked goods. The BEST pumpkin bread and ice cream I’ve ever tasted OMG.
• Miz_Drizzle: C.J. is a vegan/plant-based pastry chef who makes custom vegan cakes and pastries!
• Gourmet Brothers Grill: Used to be one of my favorite food carts, and now can come right to your event!
• Finer Things Events and Catering: Formerly Red Shoe Catering, they used to have a brick and mortar, but now have gone back to continuing their 30+ years of servicing Portland via catering.
• Meals 4 Heels: Meal delivery service for the sex worker community! They also occassionally pop up at markets and other events.

Cooking with Black Owned Restaurants in Portland

And last but not least, of course after treating yourself to all of these amazing Black owned restaurants in Portland, you’ll probabllyyyy be wanting to bring some of those flavors home with you! Again, some of the physical Black owned restaurants in Portland also sell products like seasonings and snacks whatnot, but here I’ll be emphasizing those that do not fall under the “restaurant” umbrella!

• House of Flavor Market: THE store to pick up ingredients from the African diaspora with an emphasis on Haitian and West African flavors
• Everyone’s Table : A cookbook written by Chef Gregory Gourdet, this is a great choice with recipe options that are gluten and dairy free! Owner of the restaurant Kann!
• Felton & Mary’s Artisan Foods: An assortment of delicious BBQ sauces and BBQ rubs.
• Roots Marketplace: Black owned grocery store (heyoooo!!) that supports local Black farmers and their produce and products.
• Esotico Pasta: Artisan pastas, infused olive oils, salts, and sauces.
• Joe Brown’s Carmel Corn: REALLY GOOD carmel corn. You NEED this for movie nights.
• Mathilde’s Kitchen: Caribbean artisinal beverages (Chef Mathilde Wilson also has a food cart, but I cover that more in my Caribbean restaurants in Portland post – coming soon)
• Creole Me Up: Haitian Creole condiments like pikliz (pickled) ingredients and marinades. Chef Elsy also does cooking classes!
• Yoga Chef Jess: A premade vegan meal subscription service!

Black Owned Restaurants in Portland: Conclusion

WHEW. Y’all. This post on Black owned restaurants in Portland was a BEAST. Thanks for sticking through it with me. Now again, I emphasize that this list is not full reaching and extensive. I can name 5 off the top of my head that I simply just haven’t been to yet. There are even a fewww Black owned restaurants in Portland that I’ve been to, but I don’t have any pictures of! So as soon as I go back, I’ll add them here!

There are MORE Black owned restaurants in Portland than just this list, with more Black owned restaurants in Portland on the horizon.

I didn’t even include Black owned bars, cafes, wineries, or dessert spots. PLUS, I’ll have a whole separate post for Caribbean and African restaurants in Portland (coming soon)!

If you don’t see one that you’ve heard of or been to, there are also some local favorite Black owned restaurants in Portland that have closed down over the past year or so (that I would have LOVED to include). Also ALSO, this list is based on my personal tastes, so if your favorite Black owned restaurant in Portland isn’t on it, PLEASE comment it below so others can look into it as well. If you’ve made it this far, congrats. And thank you. I hope you understand the importance of giving historically excluded restaurants an extra publicity boost, but also know that these are great restaurants all on their own merit as well.

I also hope you didn’t mind my whole “finding community” spiel interlaced in the post. I could’ve just listed the Black owned restaurants in Portland like any other publication, but it truly was deeper than that for me. This Black owned restaurants in Portland post has been a labor of LOVE over the course of…YEARS. Since I’ve moved to Portland in fact. This isn’t just a popular Google search term for me; I want to help other people who feel displaced after moving here. People who need the community of Black owned restaurants in Portland to feel more comfortable in their new home.

But I digress 🙂

Which of these Black owned restaurants in Portland are you excited to check out? Let me know in the comments!

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