The Boston culinary scene is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, making seafood a staple—including at many of the best Black-owned restaurants in Boston.
Indulge in traditional Italian fare at a standout spot in South End. Dig into flavorful Caribbean dishes at a cozy destination in Beacon Hill. Feast on fresh New England seafood at a stylish favorite in Dorchester.
At these seven Black-owned restaurants in Boston, you can sample everything from injera platters to steak frites, and seafood-centric staples like lobster, clam chowder, and oysters.
Book a table at one of the top Black-owned restaurants in Boston on OpenTable today.
Read on to discover the 7 best Black-owned restaurants in Boston right now.
For modern Italian fare from one of the best Black-owned restaurants in Boston — check out MIDA (South End, East Boston, Newton)
With three Boston locations, MIDA is where you go for a knockout Italian meal, thanks to James Beard-nominated chef-owner Douglass Williams. Feast on favorites like exquisite handmade pastas like a bucatini all amatriciana along with meat-centric dishes like a bone-in pork chop and swordfish piccata. If you’re drinking, pair your meal with a pour from the stellar wine and amaro list.
For a modern take on New England seafood — book a table at The Pearl (Dorchester)
Located in the heart of Dorchester, The Pearl is one of the top restaurants in Boston. The restaurant’s menu is packed with top-notch seafood dishes—think coconut curry mussels, chargrilled oysters, and lobster rolls. It also has an impressive raw bar and weekend brunch with rich plates like banana bread French toast. The Pearl’s dining room includes a spacious bar area with light subway tiles and soft lighting.
For soul food in one of the best Black-owned restaurants in Boston — head over to Park 54 Restaurant & Lounge (Hyde Park)
Named after the Civil War-era 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment, Park 54 Restaurant & Lounge is among the top Black-owned restaurants in Boston. Owned by Tasha Hull and Andre Walker, Sr., the menu goes all in on hearty soul food and American and Caribbean classics. Try favorites like shrimp and grits, rasta pasta, and oxtails in the sophisticated space with dark walls, accents, and furnishings. Don’t miss the popular weekend brunch.
For traditional Ethiopian fare — visit Blue Nile Ethiopian Restaurant (Jamaica Plain)
Owned by Yosef Haile, Blue Nile Ethiopian Restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Boston with vegetarian-friendly options. Here, injera—Ethiopia’s famed sourdough flatbread—serves as a plate and a utensil, ideal for scooping up the flavorful wats and tibs. The atmosphere is an upscale neighborhood space with dark furnishings, white tablecloths, and sage green walls accented with East African artwork. Don’t miss the tej, an Ethiopian honey wine.
For modern, French brasserie-style food — try Café Sauvage (Back Bay)
Located in Back Bay, Café Sauvage channels the charming cafes of Paris. Expect a menu of French brasserie classics like a croque madame alongside international dishes like roasted chicken with jollof rice inspired by co-owner Anaïs Lambert’s mother’s recipe. With green plants, soothing earth tones, elegant mirrors, and soft, ambient lighting, the restaurant’s interiors resemble an indoor garden.
For speakeasy vibes and late-night bites in one of the best Black-owned restaurants in Boston — try Hue (Back Bay)
Hue is where you go for an upscale dinner party atmosphere. Situated in the historic former Storyville jazz club, this two-story supper club is an Art Deco-inspired venue with dark accents, sweeping curved lines, and plush furnishings. The lively atmosphere is further enhanced by a DJ who spins music each night. The menu includes a variety of international dishes with choices like pesto gnocchi, crispy pork belly, and grilled lamb lollipops.
For some of the best fusion cuisine at one of the top Black-owned restaurants in Boston — reserve a table at Estella (Beacon Hill)
Named for owner George Brandão’s mother, Estella specializes in American and Caribbean fusion cuisine. The restaurant’s menu includes eclectic items like coconut shrimp, rasta pasta, and Hungarian filet mignon, complemented by an extensive list of cocktails and mocktails. The dining area has a distinctly Art Deco meets cozy vibe, with exposed brick walls, black leather booths, elegant hanging chandeliers, and wall mirrors enhancing the sense of space.
Whether you’re in the mood for leisurely weekend brunch or a French-style ratatouille lasagna, the Black-owned restaurants in Boston have dishes and vibes for every occasion.
Grab a seat at one of the best Black-owned restaurants in Boston by booking ahead on OpenTable today.
Discover more noteworthy dining options in Boston with these guides:
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- Editor’s choice: 12 favorite restaurants in Boston
- 12 fancy restaurants in Boston perfect for special occasions
- Boston’s 12 most drop-dead gorgeous restaurants
- 10 essential cozy restaurants in Boston
Taryn White is a Washington, DC-area travel and food writer and founder of travel and lifestyle website The Trip Wish List. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Forbes, and other outlets.
