The Gateway to the West
When you visit St. Louis, you’ll quickly see that this city’s Black-owned businesses are at the heart of its food, culture, and history. Whether you’re exploring iconic museums that preserve Black stories, digging into creative comfort food with a twist, or uncovering the work of talented chefs, artists, and entrepreneurs, St. Louis’ Black-owned scene is rich with talent and innovation.
This guide highlights some of the city’s standout Black-owned businesses, from its can’t-miss restaurants and dessert spots to historic cultural landmarks and creative culinary experiences. If you’re planning your St. Louis trip or just looking for ways to support Black businesses in the area, this list is the perfect place to start. If you enjoyed this guide, check out all of our great listings in our directory here.
The Griot Museum is the first museum dedicated to Black history in St. Louis. Beginning as The Black World History Wax Museum in February 1997, the museum changed its name in 2009 to The Griot to reflect the museum’s larger mission. Visit and learn about notable Black Historical figures but visitors can also see an authentic slave cabin from the Wright-Smith Plantation as well as other interactive exhibits.
The George Vashon Museum is home to a collection of items reflecting history of over 250 years from African Americans. Here you will find items ranging from the Pullman Porters, politicians, lawyers and more. Each of them helped to weave the story of Black Americans in St. Louis and this museum is a great place to see some of those items and get a touch of history.
The Black Rep is an arts organization in St. Louis dedicated to preserving art through performance. This organization offers exciting programming year round which includes performances of great works from black playwrights in original and reimagined forms. They also have educational programming and youth workshops to engage and inspire the next generation of great black artists. Visit their website to find and attend one of the shows they operate across the city at University Theaters in the area.
If you’re craving a culinary work of art, look no further than La Patisserie Chouquette, where Chef Simone Faure, St. Louis’ first Black woman Executive Pastry Chef, has created a one-of-a-kind bakery blending French techniques with her own creative storytelling through pastry. This French inspired bakery and pastry shop is full of fine crafted pastries that feature nods to pop culture and historical references. When you visit the Lou, you can treat yourself and indulge in these finely crafted treats that will transport you to another place and time.
Steve’s Hot Dogs are legendary in St. Louis. Founder Steve Ewing, the former frontman for a band called “The Urge”, opened his hot dog stand in 2008. The stand grew its reputation and following by putting creative toppings on top of smoked all beef hot dogs. Staples like the Gorilla Mac and Cheese were some of the varieties that have drawn in crowds and that has led to even more limited edition versions and collaborations with other St. Louis businesses. For a true taste of St. Louis, make sure you hit one of the Steve’s Hot Dog locations on your visit.
Food Halls are the new versions of the classic Food Court and the Food Hall at City Foundry is where you can find 4 Hens Creole Kitchen. It offers a great place to get a taste of good old Creole Cooking with staples like Shrimp n’ Grits, Po’ Boys, and Fried Green Tomatoes. If you’re looking for a nice lunch or afternoon meal, visit 4 Hens at City Foundry.
Bold Spoon Creamery started with a simple mint harvest. In 2017 Rachel Burns needed a use for the extra mint she had and decided to make up a batch of mint ice cream for her friends. It went over well and over the next few years she would begin experimenting with recipes and flavors until launching Bold Spoon and scaling up the business. Now you can find the ice cream all over the city, including The Dome, where the UFL’s Battlehawks play, as well as the homes for the St. Louis Blues and Citypark Stadium.
For more than two decades, Pharaoh’s Donuts has been serving up some of the fluffiest, freshest donuts in St. Louis. While you can find their treats stocked at gas stations and local shops around the city, the true experience is visiting one of their flagship locations where the donuts are served fresh from the fryer. Offering classic glazed, cake donuts, cinnamon rolls, and even milkshakes, Pharaoh’s has become a morning ritual for locals and visitors alike. With its longstanding reputation for quality and consistency, it’s no wonder Pharaoh’s is a St. Louis staple.
Sweet Arts Bakeshop & Cafe is a 100% vegan restaurant bringing great food to St. Louis. Located in the Shaw District, Chef Reine Keis wanted to bring actually good vegan savory eats and treats to her community. There are also gluten free options, tacos, sandwiches, and more on the menu. You know there also has to be brunch! Sweet Arts Bakeshop is an essential visit in your travels.
Every city has their own preferred place for burgers and in the St. Louis area, Bus Loop Burgers is one of the top contenders. This restaurant has been open since 1996, serving burgers, fries, shakes and wings to a hungry population.Their menu is a mix of creative specialty burgers and beloved classics, ensuring there’s something for everyone, whether you’re after a gourmet twist or a simple cheeseburger done right. With a loyal following and a reputation for big flavors and friendly service, Bus Loop Burgers is a must-visit for burger lovers exploring St. Louis.
Lefty’s Fried Rice is a unicorn, a Black Owned Chinese Food restaurant bringing their own soulful spin on your favorites. Lefty’s is about more than just food. They actively support local community organizations through their sponsorship program, making them not only a culinary hotspot but also a community champion. If you’re looking to get your fix for Chinese head over to Lefty’s and give them a try.
If you’re looking for a good breakfast or brunch, Latte Lounge & HG Eatery in Ferguson might be up your alley. Head over for blueberry lemon ricotta french toast and fresh hot coffee or get yourself hot lunch options like Shrimp and grits and chicken and waffles. Pull up to this chic location and enjoy a stylish meal in a great atmosphere.
Pat Upchurch founded Patty’s Cheesecakes to honor her grandmother and her father. Now you can enjoy the delicious desserts when you visit their location at City Foundry. Get creamy and indulgent slices made with fresh fruits like peaches and strawberries or mini cheesecakes. Past and future flavors include strawberry crunch, raspberry lemonade, blueberry bourbon and over a dozen more options.
Rated Test Kitchen is an exciting and interesting restaurant that makes a great option for dinner if you can get in during your visits to St. Louis. The restaurant features a seven course dinner from an evolving and ever changing menu. The atmosphere is upscale and intimate, making it perfect for a romantic date night or a memorable culinary adventure. With each visit offering something new, Rated TK caters to those who love to discover flavors, appreciate artful plating, and value an experience as much as a meal.
Turn brings a unique fusion of food and music to St. Louis’ culinary scene. Founded by Chef David Kirkland, a former DJ turned chef, Turn blends his two loves into a brunch-focused restaurant that serves up fresh, locally sourced dishes alongside a thoughtfully curated soundtrack. The menu highlights include house-made biscuits, veggie scrambles, and signature “turntables”—savory waffles stacked with flavorful toppings. Turn also takes pride in its health-conscious approach, making it easy to indulge while still eating fresh. Whether you’re there for the beats, the biscuits, or the brunch cocktails, Turn is a vibe all its own.
