Culture Meets Sunshine
Orlando is known for its theme parks and attractions. Spring Break will be here soon and there is nothing like a trip to the city to celebrate with the family. But while you’re there, you may need a break from all of the funnel cakes and theme park inspired treats. These Black Owned Businesses will be a break from the normal tourist venues and they are creating a vibrant scene rooted in culture and purpose. Whether its your first time there, or you’re a regular, this guide highlights the Black Owned Businesses that make the city feel alive.
The Zora Neale Hurston Museum is an institution dedicated to preserving black history and art. Located in St. Augustine, the home of the award winning writer, the museum showcases the work of Black Artists and showcases the history of African Americans in Central Florida.
The Orlando location of this franchise of smoothie and Acai bowls is Black owned and a great place to get a refreshing reprieve from the usual amusement park foods. Give your body a break and refresh with healthy smoothies and juices made with all natural ingredients.
If you are looking for classic Southern Baked Goods in Orlando, Florida, Sister Honey’s is the perfect choice. Since 2012 this bakery has been providing tasty desserts and great customer service to the Orlando community. Sister Honey’s has received national recognition for its decadent desserts, including Best Bakery awards and even mentions from the American Pie Council. Everything here is made the old-fashioned way with real butter, farm-fresh eggs, and a whole lot of love.
Naked Bar Soap is a great place in Orlando to visit and get natural skin care products. Visit the studio in person and choose from more than a dozen soaps each with ingredients for your different skin care needs. They also sell deodorant and body oils to deal with everything you need for your skin care needs.
This Black owned Coffee shop is a labor of love by its owner, Danielle Bjork. Fueled by childhood memories of coffee and pound cake, Birchwood Coffee Co is bringing the magic to the people of Orlando, and you too if you visit. Enjoy the quality coffee drinks from baristas that make your drinks with care and you too will feel like family with Auntie Pam’s Peach Cobbler or Grandma Ruth’s Buttermilk Pound Cake.
Nikki’s Place is a black owned staple in Orlando. This soul food spot has been there for decades serving up food that is full of care and love. You can get great food in a great time at this restaurant that has made plenty of lists of the best in the State. Feel right at home in their dining room and relax with a comforting meal from Nikki’s Place.
This chicken restaurant in Orlando is one of the best reviewed restaurants you can come across. Chicken Fire is serving up flavorful hot chicken and seasoned fries daily that keep people coming back for more. Founded by Kwame Boakye, this Black-owned hot chicken spot has exploded in popularity thanks to its perfectly crispy, spice-packed Nashville-style hot chicken. Whether you prefer your chicken mild or want to challenge your limits with their “Hot X-Hot,” you will learn why the restaurant is worth the visit.
If you are looking for some good barbecue in Orlando, look no further than Smokemade Meats and Eats. Tyler Brunache opened his brick and mortar location after three years of pop ups where he has been selling his low and slow smoked Texas Barbecue. Get delicious brisket, pulled pork as well as hand crafted sides to transport you to another place as you enjoy award winning barbecue.
Everything in Orlando isn’t about the bright amusements and carnival atmosphere. C.B. Bistro is a great change of pace for adults that enjoy a grown folk’s experience. Grab your dinner or brunch buffet ticket and get ready to enjoy amazing music from local and visiting musicians, while being served tableside. Book your reservation and make sure that you spend time to yourself in what is the premier family destination in the country.
This fast casual restaurant in Orlando is bringing the Caribbean vibes to the public. They serve up Virgin Island inspired West Indian fare like jerk chicken, braised oxtail and coconut shrimp that is beloved in the area. People rave about the friendly service and atmosphere. If you’re looking for Caribbean fare while in Orlando, head on down to Virgin island Thyme.
