1. Red Rooster Harlem – Chef Marcus Samuelsson (New York, NY)
If there’s one Black-owned restaurant that has made a massive cultural and culinary impact, it’s Red Rooster Harlem. Chef Marcus Samuelsson opened this Harlem institution to celebrate the neighborhood’s rich history and its deep connection to Black American cuisine. Since its debut, it has attracted celebrities, politicians, and food lovers alike, all eager to try its elevated take on comfort food classics. The restaurant has earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand, recognizing its incredible food at an approachable price. Whether it’s the famous hot fried chicken or the rich, flavorful shrimp and grits, every dish tells a story of tradition with a modern twist.
The atmosphere at Red Rooster Harlem is just as vibrant as its food, with live music and a lively bar scene that keeps the energy high. The restaurant also has a strong community focus, providing jobs and opportunities for Harlem residents. Downstairs, the speakeasy-style Ginny’s Supper Club offers another layer to the experience, with jazz performances and a cozy, intimate vibe. Samuelsson’s commitment to honoring Harlem’s legacy through food and culture has made Red Rooster a must-visit destination. It’s the kind of place where history, flavor, and celebration all come together in one unforgettable meal.
2. Dooky Chase’s Restaurant – The Late Leah Chase (New Orleans, LA)
No conversation about Black-owned restaurants with Michelin recognition would be complete without Dooky Chase’s Restaurant. Founded in 1941 and made famous by the legendary Leah Chase, this New Orleans institution has been a meeting place for civil rights leaders, musicians, and food lovers for decades. While the restaurant itself has not earned a Michelin star (New Orleans didn’t have Michelin coverage for years), Leah Chase was personally recognized with a Michelin Guide award for her contributions to the culinary world. Her Creole cuisine, including classics like gumbo, fried chicken, and red beans and rice, has influenced countless chefs.
Walking into Dooky Chase’s feels like stepping into history, with walls adorned with Black art and a sense of legacy in every corner. The late Leah Chase, often called the “Queen of Creole Cuisine,” fed everyone from Martin Luther King Jr. to Barack Obama. Despite her passing in 2019, her family continues to run the restaurant with the same love and dedication. Dining here is more than just a meal—it’s an experience rooted in culture, history, and soul. There’s a reason people from all over the world make the pilgrimage to Dooky Chase’s, and one bite of the gumbo will tell you why.
3. Addison – Chef William Bradley & Chef Travis Swikard (San Diego, CA)
San Diego might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Michelin-starred restaurants, but Addison has put the city on the fine dining map. Helmed by Chef William Bradley and featuring the culinary expertise of Chef Travis Swikard, this restaurant delivers an unforgettable French-influenced tasting menu. Though it isn’t solely Black-owned, Swikard has played a significant role in shaping its success, bringing global influences to its elegant dishes. The restaurant earned its third Michelin star in 2022, making it Southern California’s only three-starred spot. Expect a luxurious dining experience where every detail, from presentation to service, is flawless.
Each course at Addison feels like a work of art, with dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients and unexpected flavor pairings. The tasting menu changes regularly, but you might find dishes like charcoal-grilled squab or rich lobster bisque with a contemporary twist. Pair it with a world-class wine selection, and you’ve got a meal that’s as indulgent as it is memorable. The ambiance is just as impressive, with a grand dining room that somehow feels intimate. While the experience isn’t cheap, it’s the kind of place that makes every penny feel well spent.
4. Mister Jiu’s – Chef Brandon Jew & Chef Howard Jang (San Francisco, CA)
San Francisco’s Mister Jiu’s is a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its creative take on Chinese-American cuisine, but it also has strong Black leadership in the kitchen. Chef Howard Jang, who has worked closely with founder Brandon Jew, has been instrumental in shaping the restaurant’s menu and earning its Michelin star. This Chinatown gem pays homage to classic Chinese flavors while adding modern techniques and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It’s a restaurant that blends tradition with innovation, making it one of the most celebrated dining spots in the Bay Area.
The menu features standout dishes like tea-smoked duck, handmade dumplings, and a legendary scallion pancake that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The ambiance is sleek and sophisticated, with large round tables perfect for sharing dishes family-style. The restaurant also has a strong emphasis on sustainability, sourcing from local farms and using every part of an ingredient to minimize waste. Whether you’re here for a special occasion or just craving next-level Chinese food, Mister Jiu’s delivers an experience that’s worthy of its Michelin star.
5. Compère Lapin – Chef Nina Compton (New Orleans, LA)
Chef Nina Compton has made a name for herself as one of the most exciting chefs in the country, and Compère Lapin is proof of her culinary brilliance. Located in New Orleans, this restaurant blends Caribbean, Creole, and French influences into a menu that’s as bold as it is refined. Compton, a St. Lucia native, has created a space where flavors from her home country meet the rich food traditions of New Orleans. Michelin has recognized her work with accolades, and the restaurant has been celebrated in countless food publications.
Dishes like curried goat with sweet potato gnocchi and buttermilk biscuits with honey butter showcase Compton’s ability to balance comfort food with fine dining finesse. The cocktails are just as impressive, often featuring tropical flavors that tie back to her Caribbean roots. The space itself is warm and welcoming, with a casual elegance that makes it perfect for both date nights and celebratory dinners. Compton’s talent and passion shine through in every bite, making Compère Lapin a must-visit for anyone who loves food that tells a story.