In the vibrant coastal community of Virginia Beach, there exists a rich tapestry of flavors and entrepreneurial spirit through the diverse array of Black-owned businesses. While February marks Black History Month and August is National Black Business Month, any time of the year is perfect for supporting and celebrating these establishments. From granola bars crafted from beer byproducts to tailor-made suits, the local landscape is dotted with businesses offering unique experiences and products. Join us in exploring some of the must-visit Black-owned gems that contribute to the cultural and culinary richness of Virginia Beach.
All Good Granola Bars: Turning Byproducts into Delightful Treats
Bryan Daniels, a Virginia Beach native and certified personal trainer, transformed leftover grains from home beer brewing into delicious and nutritious all-good granola Bars. Offering flavors like Cranberry Almond IPA and Coconut Mango Tropical IPA, these granola bars not only provide a unique culinary experience but also contribute to sustainability by repurposing byproducts from local craft breweries.
Ceremony: Elevating Celebrations without Alcohol
Chris Simmonds presents Ceremony, a dry bottle shop dedicated to offering non-alcoholic and low-alcohol drinks for those who choose not to drink or are seeking alternatives. With a focus on environmental responsibility, Ceremony ensures that beverages are packaged in easily recyclable containers, aligning with Simmonds' commitment to sustainability.
Chef Skip 757: From Food Truck to Culinary Success
Christopher Skipper, a Virginia Beach native, embarked on a culinary journey, progressing from a kitchen helper to the owner of two brick-and-mortar restaurants called Chef Skip 757. Known for golden-brown, deep-fried delicacies such as shrimp po' boys and crabcakes, Chef Skip's menu reflects his passion for crafting indulgent yet comforting dishes.
Cobalt Grille: A Fusion of Culinary Styles by Alvin Williams
Alvin Williams, born and raised by Jamaican parents in Leeds, England, brings a fusion of culinary influences to Cobalt Grille. This fine-dining establishment opened in 2000, offers a diverse menu, from scallops Rockefeller to gourmet burgers, showcasing Williams' talents honed in prestigious London kitchens.
CLTRE. | VGN JNT: A Vegan Haven with a Creative Twist
Luvenia "Luv" Hankins fulfills her childhood dream with CLTRE. Vegan Joint (VGN JNT), is a cafe where art and veganism unite. Offering an all-vegan menu with creative options like vegan waffles in various flavors, avocado toast, and Chik'n Biscuit, CLTRE. invites patrons to enjoy artistic expression alongside delicious plant-based meals.
The Dapper Luq Collection: Custom-Made Suits with Elegance
Luqman Haskett, a U.S. Navy retiree, founded The Dapper Luq Collection, specializing in hand-tailored suits with customization options not found in retail stores. Despite being a pricier choice, the allure of bespoke suits tailored to individual preferences has garnered a loyal customer base.
Desmond’s Island Soul Grill: Caribbean Culinary Delights
Shavonne Alexander brings the flavors of the Caribbean to Virginia Beach with Desmond's Island Soul Grill. Celebrating the diverse influences on Caribbean cuisine, the restaurant offers a vegan menu featuring curries, roti, and specialties like Rasta Pasta, providing a culinary journey through the islands.
Happy Cafe: Elevating Sandwiches Beyond the Ordinary
Chef Tomeka Wallace has transformed the ordinary sandwich into a culinary delight at Happy Cafe. With imaginative flavor combinations like the Ultimate Club and Cafe Roast, Wallace's creations defy expectations, offering patrons a unique and savory experience.
J&K Style Grill: A Teenage CEO’s Culinary Triumph
Keona Dooley, a teenage CEO, has been an integral part of J&K Style Grill since the age of 9. This family-owned business, known for its wings, egg rolls, and signature waffle burger, showcases Keona's dedication to providing unique and flavorful offerings.
<Less Than Sustainable Alternatives for a Greener Earth
Chris Simmonds launched <Less Than in 2020, offering sustainable alternatives to common goods. With a focus on reducing waste, <Less Than provides eco-friendly products, encouraging customers to bring their containers for refills. Simmonds aims to contribute to a more sustainable and eco-conscious world.
Montego Island Grill: Authentic Caribbean Flavors
Randi and Danyelle Nurse bring authentic Caribbean dishes to Virginia Beach through Montego Island Grill. With influences from Barbados and a menu featuring jerk chicken, stewed oxtail, and Caribbean-style red snapper, this family-owned restaurant showcases the vibrant and diverse flavors of the islands.
Philly Cold Cuts: A Legacy of Cheesesteaks and More
Chief George Fuller and his wife, Louise, along with their four sons, operate Philly Cold Cuts. Known for their signature Philly cheesesteaks, the menu also boasts hoagies, sandwiches, burgers, and salads. The Fuller family's dedication to culinary excellence has made Philly Cold Cuts a local favorite.
Smoothie Stop Café: Fresh and Healthy Sips
Inspired by a 105-year-old grandmother, the family-owned Smoothie Stop Café offers a wide range of healthy options, including smoothies, cold-pressed juices, detox plans, wraps, and salads. Every sip is a testament to their commitment to freshness and well-being.
Virginia Beach's Black-owned businesses not only enrich the local economy but also contribute to the cultural tapestry, offering unique and diverse experiences. Supporting these establishments goes beyond commerce; it's a celebration of heritage, creativity, and entrepreneurship. As you explore the culinary and retail landscape of Virginia Beach, consider making a difference by patronizing these incredible Black-owned businesses.
Visit the Black-owned companies in Virginia Beach to start an interesting journey. These places provide an abundance of experiences, whether your craving is for bespoke suits, healthful smoothies, or Caribbean delicacies. Throughout the year, honor local business owners, celebrate diversity, and appreciate the distinctive contributions made by Black-owned companies.
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