Celebrating Black History Month
Beginning in 1976, America has since denoted February as Black History Month. This is special time of the year to honor, pay tribute, and champion BIPOC (Black Indigenous People of Color) – a segment of our culture who often do not receive the honor deserved. Speaking of paying homage, a unique privilege we have here in Atlanta is the opportunity to visit the birth home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr!
There are many ways schools, organizations, and individuals can celebrate such as donating to philanthropic causes, visiting Civil Rights museums and historical sites, and supporting local black-owned businesses.
As we celebrate Black History month, we want to take a moment to acknowledge and honor some of the leaders of color who reside right here in our own backyard who have defied the odds and overcome adversity.
Keep reading for a list of Atlanta based, and Alpharetta local, Black-owned businesses and restaurants you can support this month (and all year long!)
Happy Black History Month!
Pictured: Kamal Grant. Founder of Sublime Donuts
Local Black Owned Businesses (Retail and Community)
Brave and Kind Book Shop – A curated, children’s bookshop located in Decatur, Georgia. Owned and operated by mother of two, Bunnie Hilliard.
Funky Flair Boutique – Located in Marietta, GA, Funky Flair has been named as one of the “Top 25 Fabulous Brick and Mortar Clothing Stored” by Fashion Bomb Daily. Owned and operated by Kesha Denise, they are known for their eclectic collection of apparel, and carry a limited style of items to ensure a unique shopping experience.
Happy Mango – An eco-friendly retail store located in Atlanta, GA. They specialize in pregnancy products and green, sustainable fashion + beyond.
SHRED415 Alpharetta – As a company, Shred415 was founded in 2011 as an effective and efficient exercise experience to meet the needs of those with a fast-paced lifestyle. The Alpharetta location (off Winward Parkway) is owned by Ron Cole, a friend of Phase, a charismatic coach, and one-of-a-kind personality.
The Beehive – Dedicated to cultivating community first, The Beehive is a collaborative space for locals to craft, learn, work, and party. It is the only of its kind to be fully owned and operated by those contained within the community.
Local Black Owned Restaurants
Atlanta Breakfast Club – Owned by Anthony Sanders and Osiris Ballard, Atlanta Breakfast Club is a homestyle, southern breakfast experience in the heart of Mid-Town Atlanta.
Auntie Kims Pound Cakes – Kimberly Boyd has been baking her entire life and decided to take her talent to the next level when encouraged by her friends and family to start her own business. She is a stay-at-home mom, who’s passion for poundcake can be tasted in every bite.
Avocado Vegan Café and Juice Bar – Godfrey Lewis is the owner of this favorite healthy, Caribbean-influenced café. Curated with the healthy lifestyle in mind, they are known for combining the gourmet dining experience with environmentally friendly, quality foods.
Big Oak Tavern – Located in Historic Roswell, Big Oak Tavern is known for its classic American cuisine with an Asian Influence. Owned by Nate Armstrong, the establishment has been resilient for over 10 years.
Dat Fire Jerk Chicken – A Caribbean inspired collection of cuisine, located in the heart of Atlanta. Chef Jason Johnson, has taken the family-owned franchise to the best rated Jerk Chicken Joint in the city of Atlanta.
House of Ambrosia – A high end catering company located in Atlanta, focused on creating a unique southern, boutique dining experience for any occasion. A friend of Phase, and a contributor to the community Chef Rodney, never disappoints.
Just Add Honey – A tea company located in Atlanta, GA, was born when New Orleans native Brandi Shelton turned her love for tea into a business. Inspired by watching her grandmother pick fresh herbs to create different blends, she brough her own touch to the industry in 2006.
Le Petit Marche – The Little Market was founded in 2008 by Marche Sparks. Located in Atlanta, GA it has since won several “Best Of…” awards as it is known for Marche’s mother’s famous legacy soups.
Southern Classic Foods – Located in Roswell, Southern Classic Foods is established as some of the best southern comfort food in the area. Sheena Bryant has taken influences from her favorite childhood dishes and brought them to the public, along with her famous All Purpose and Steak seasonings.
Flavor Rich Food Truck – Described as chef inspired, gastropub, and gourmet street food Flavor Rich Food Truck is known for their unique recipes and seasonal options. Chef Chris and Chef Angelica have taken to the streets of Atlanta to bring the classic comfort food inspired sandwiches to all. Keep up with their locations on their social media, @flavorricfoodtruck.
Sublime Donuts – Founded by Kamal Grant, and located on campus at Georgia Tech, in the North Druid Hills Area, and internationally, in Bangkok, Thailand.
Urban Grind – A cozy coffee house located in Atlanta’s West Side among a young and vibrant community. Urban Grind was established over a decade ago by entrepreneur, Cassandra Ingram.
