Pittsburgh is a city full of culinary masterminds blending cultures and flavors in unique ways. These Black-owned restaurants all have chefs who take their love for providing exceptional food very seriously. Pull out your calendar and start setting dinner dates for all of these stellar spots in 2024.
Food Trucks
These Black-owned food trucks are worth tracking down in 2024, trust us.
The Sooo Delicious team hopes your first bite lives up to its name. Featuring chicken and waffles, mac and cheese, and a rotating array of decadent desserts, this truck is in high demand. You’ll love sampling their menu staples, but be sure to try a build-your-own Mac Cracklin’ bowl before you head back to the car.
For an authentic African-inspired flavor profile, look for Kilimanjaro Flavour at breweries and events around town in 2024. The dishes come straight from Tanzanian traditions and feature expertly cooked meats, vegetables, and rice the whole family will enjoy.
Looking for tasty desserts and snacks? Find Momma-licious Food Truck around town all year and sample some of the best bites you’ve had in town. The team specializes in seafood, but the variety of fries on special-event menus is worth seeking out. The lobster, pork, crab, and funnel cake options will definitely have you returning for seconds.
Desserts and Extras
Rather than going out for a full meal, try these Black-owned dessert and treat spots for a decadent bite any day of the year.
Known for the original Mania Milkshake and other fudgy treats, Fudge Farm is the place to go when you crave sweets. Over the years, Fudge Farm has transformed from a wholesale chocolate operation to a local favorite that offers classes, gives back to the community, and provides lots of entertainment while you’re eating (their indoor swing is famous!). Several years ago, Fudge Farm merged with another Black-owned business, Wes Lyons’ Cakery Square, to offer more opportunities for local teens to work and build skills in the community.
If chocolate and ice cream aren’t your preferred treats, head to Cobbler World and sample some of “Chief Baker Owner” Terina’s nostalgic creations. As one of nine growing up, many of her memories revolve around family time spent enjoying her mother’s delectable cobblers. Terina shares her food and love of community with everyone who walks in the door.
1:11 Juice Bar offers raw, cold-pressed, organic juices and smoothies in a stunning variety of flavor combinations for those who want a healthier option. The owners hope to create an experience that is inclusive, fun, and always at the forefront of culinary invention. They also offer limited sandwiches and wraps, so this could easily become your go-to spot for lunch in 2024.
Culinary Experiences
Delicious food is abundant in Pittsburgh, but the creativity in this city doesn’t stop there. These Black-owned businesses combine mouth-watering cuisine with experiences you won’t soon forget, so plan to visit each one on the list in 2024.
For a genuinely unique art-meets-dining experience, head to Art and Soul Café for locally sourced southern-style food. Siblings Tracey and Marlon honor their father’s legacy with food and art that engage all the senses. Community events complement the menu that features sandwiches and southern sides.
Music, karaoke, and weekly Steeler’s games on the TV go hand-in-hand with the food and drink options at Young Brothers Bar. You don’t need to choose between good food and a laid-back bar atmosphere with this location. Visitors consistently praise the food, especially the wings and shrimp. You can expect a friendly neighborhood crowd and frequent community events at this favorite local spot.
If you’re a fan of nostalgia and delicious burgers and wings, head to The Foodture for a dining-museum experience you won’t soon forget. Classic pop culture references inspire the dishes, and the owners don’t skimp on flavor. This location is re-opening stronger than ever for 2024, so get in the door while you still can!
BBQ and Soul Food
Some of the best Pittsburgh cuisine features smokey meats and soul food classics. We recommend rotating through these locations to take advantage of daily specials and get to know the dedicated owners.
Local Homewood staple Showcase BBQ just celebrated its 20th year in 2023, so it’s time to enjoy some of Pittsburgh’s best BBQ if you haven’t yet. Owner Drew Allen had an entrepreneurial dream that he wouldn’t let die, and now his original BBQ sauce is famous across town. Expect classic BBQ offerings, including various traditional sides (try the red beans and rice!), but get there early before everything sells out.
Fireside Caribbean Restaurant offers some of the most authentic Jamaican food in Pennsylvania. Choose from daily specials like ox tail and jerk chicken accompanied by classic rice, beans, or cabbage on the side. This is island-inspired soul food at its finest.
The from-scratch menu at Soul Food Connection is consistently impressive, so come hungry and ready to finish everything on your plate. This comfort food is a staple in the Wilkinsburg community, and many visitors are glad to see menu items like liver and onions that are hard to find elsewhere. Make sure to bring cash since owner and chef Hosea is proudly card-free.
Start your 2024 culinary journey off right with a visit to any (or all) of these Black-owned restaurants.
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