In an area as diverse as the DMV, there are endless ways to celebrate Black history month throughout February and all year long. From casual lunch offerings to upscale dining experiences, Black restaurateurs are serving up delicious meals that showcase the unique, vibrant heritage of African-Americans. Bhlen is a proud supporter of Black businesses–check out our dynamic list of Black-Owned businesses near you!
The Continent DC (Downtown)
For a truly one-of-a-kind upscale experience, check out the upscale West African restaurant, The Continent DC. From the decor to the music to unforgettable food, the founders are executing a vision of authenticity true to the continent of Africa. Part of their menu is aptly titled “Back Home” and offers hard-to-find staples such as Liberian Cassava Leaf and Spicy Goat Pepper Soup. The Continent serves up amazing specials on classics like jollof rice and chicken suya for their daily happy hour, and they are also known for offering a wide array of delicious, refreshing cocktails. Come join Bhlen to celebrate Black History Month at The Continent DC on Thursday, February 20 from 3-7 PM. DJ Ty One will be creating a vibe with his one-of-a-kind remixes, and the bar will be serving a happy hour to remember.
saladworks (Union Market)
saladworks–aka the original salad entree restaurant–started as a humble salad shop in Cherry Hill, NJ in 1986. To say the salad-eating movement caught on would be an understatement. Now they have eateries in 23 states and the District of Columbia and they offer over 60 salad ingredients to create a flavor as unique as your cravings. In addition to their signature build-your-own salads, they serve wraps, paninis, and soups. The DC restaurant is located in the NoMa district of Washington DC, near Union Market, and owner Clifford Lovett could not be prouder of this thriving business. Come join Bhlen at saladworks on February 13 from 4pm to 8pm to celebrate Black History month with a healthy, delicious meal.
Ben’s Chili Bowl (U Street and other locations)
This history of Black entrepreneurs in DC would be incomplete without mentioning Ben’s Chili Bowl. The spot opened in an old silent movie house in 1958 by Ben Ali and Virginia Rollins, who married each other just 7 weeks later. When it opened, U Street was known locally as “Black Broadway,” and many jazz legends stopped in to eat at Ben’s Chili Bowl when they were performing nearby. It has remained a mainstay, surviving civil unrest following the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. and the construction of the U Street Metro, which forced many nearby businesses to close. Ben passed away in 2009, and the restaurant has since been run by his sons, who have gone on to open new locations, including one in Nats Park and an upscale restaurant/bar called Ben’s Next Door.
Georgia Brown’s (Downtown DC)
True to its southern name, Georgia Brown’s combines the style and class of a club straight out of New Orleans during the jazz age (and it has a grand piano to prove it). It opened in 1993, and has made a name as a perfect place to impress a date. The menu offers the real deal as far as soul food goes, from catfish to fried green tomatoes. Check out live music every Wednesday and the first Friday of every month from 7-10 PM.
Negus Winery (Alexandria, Virginia)
Negus Winery is an Ethiopian-owned Winery, Meadery, and Tasting Room–in fact, it is the first and only honey wine tasting room in the US. Master winemaker Gize Negussie was formerly a successful beermaker, brewing beers inspired by his homeland. When the pandemic hit, he began experimenting with creating Tej (honey wine). With his mother’s help, he worked to preserve the traditional craft of making honey wine while infusing it with modern twists. After opening in fall 2023, Negus Winery, Meadery, and Tasting Room is now open to guests to enjoy tastings and flights, and an array of bottles of honey wine are available for purchase.
