Black-owned businesses are part of the backbone of Cleveland. From seafood boils to southern comfort, these excellent eateries are packing in flavor by the forkful — and that makes for some forkin’ good food. Check out a few of our favorite Black-owned restaurants serving up everyday deliciousness in CLE.
Made From Scratch
Get your breakfast, lunch, afternoon pick-me-up and dinner at Made From Scratch. This place has you covered with vegan and vegetarian options, wraps, salads, rice bowls as well as smoothies and wellness shots in the Union-Miles neighborhood. Like the name says, everything is made from scratch and their ingredients are bought fresh daily – so you can chow down with peace of mind.
Comfort CLE
They have been coined Cleveland's "chicken goat". Need we say more? The interior decor gives you all the authentic Cleveland energy you need and you can't go wrong with any of the mouth-watering comfort food options on the menu. Don't leave without checking out the Glenville legends on the wall and grabbing a banana pudding for dessert.
Juicy Vegan
Whether you are meat-eater or not, Juicy Vegan is the Collinwood neighborhood spot that deserves everyone's attention. Bringing you all of your favorites, minus the meat. The crazy part is for some dishes, you won't even be able to tell the difference. If you think that's impossible – grab a vegan polish boy and then talk to us.Pearl's Kitchen
Chef Tiwanna Scott-Williams is a Cleveland native and has been known and loved around the community for years, bringing her heart and love into every dish. In 2025, Pearl's Kitchen opened its flagship restaurant in the MidTown Collaboration Center. Go and experience what all the buzz is about in MidTown. Our suggestion? Go for Sunday brunch and get your delicious meal with a side of live music.KafeLA
KafeLA brings you all of the West Coast vibes to Cleveland's St.Clair-Superior neighborhood. It's the perfect spot to grab a midday smoothie and nutritious wrap or sammy for lunch on a busy weekday. The colorful and calm energy of the interior makes you feel like sunshine as you enjoy some delicious grub.Black Box Fix
Get your gourmet sandwich fix courtesy of chef Eric Rogers, who adds Creole and Cajun flair to favorites like cheesesteaks and Reubens. (And did we mention the giant portions?)
Angie’s Soul Café
Angie Jeter brought down-home South Carolina cooking to Cleveland in 1986 with her own spin, and she’s been satisfying local soul food lovers ever since with staples such as Carolina-style catfish and collard greens.
Irie Jamaican Kitchen
Devotees of Irie Jamaican Kitchen swear by chef Omar McKay’s traditional and fusion Jamaican dishes, delivered in bowls and wraps. (Try the stew chicken for true “Jah-potle” goodness.) Bob Marley would approve!
Beckham’s B&M Bar-B-Que
The “Got Ribs” tagline says it all at this BBQ hotspot. Top-secret family recipes have been passed down and perfected since the restaurant first opened in 1958 — giving new meaning to “secret sauce.”
The Crispy Chick
Habesha Ethiopian + Eritrean Restaurant
Allow yourself to experience the pure elegance of the coffee ceremony at this West Park neighborhood spot. Traditional to both Ethiopian and Eritrean cultures, the ceremony is essential to Habesha hospitality. But first, order the gomen — collard greens sautéed in onion, garlic and ginger — with ambasha bread for the table (or just you, because it’s really that good).
Doc's on Harvard
With a history that makes you feel warm and fuzzy on the inside, enjoy a full fine dining experience in Cleveland's Lee-Harvard neighborhood at Doc's on Harvard. This spot has become the neighborhood go-to for special occasions or a beautiful meal with loved ones.Yonder Brunch & Vibes
Do you feel them? The vibes? There's nothing but good coming out of the kitchen at Yonder Brunch & Vibes in AsiaTown. A menu full of fresh and hearty fare awaits, whether you dive into a stack of colorful Fruity Pebbles Killa French Toast, The Yonder breakfast sammy (bacon, egg, avocado and caramelized onions) with a side of Smashed Potatoes or the sweet and savory Chicken N Waffles.
