Shop These 30 Black-Owned Businesses Today

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Seattle is one of those places where families work to shop local whenever they can. And February is a great time to recommit to supporting local and small when you shop at some of the best Black-owned businesses Seattle has to offer. From restaurants, CSAs and grocery delivery to fitness studios and beauty products, these enterprising companies have kids and families in mind. Read on to be intentional with your spending today.

Fun for Families

MsKariba Suite | Balloon Bar Boutique

We’re crushing hard on this just-opened balloon bar and party supply store in West Seattle. Consider it your new go-to spot for creative balloon installations that’ll really make your kiddo’s birthday party—or that baby shower you’re throwing next month—pop. Families can order balloon bundles and garlands, plus just about every individual balloon you can think of online. Or you can stop by the shop to talk inspired ideas with owner Kariba Jack. Orders should be placed two weeks in advance; delivery options are still in the works. 

3860 Delridge Way S.W.
Seattle, WA
Online: itspoptastic.com

Orion Razat

Celebrate and support the entrepreneurial spirit of Seattle's own Orion Razat, author of 101 STEM Jokes. Published when he was barely out of grade school, it’s a book of silly puns and one-liners Orion wrote to entertain his classmates (much to the chagrin of his teacher). With the help of his parents, he was able to bring them all together in this entertaining book. You can follow Orion on Instagram @rocketshipsquid to see what he's up to next (hint: he's working on a second book) and buy his science-inspired merch too.

Find it: $11 at amazon.com

photo: Lauren Bernstein

Local Yokels

When local farmer’s markets shut down due to the pandemic, ag-heads Amber and Damon had a brilliant idea. They would bridge the gap by working with local farms to deliver fresh produce and other products directly to doorsteps in Seattle. Voila! Local Yokels was born. With a focus on sustainability, be it environmental or economic, families can feel good about using this service to get groceries, meats, gift baskets, self-care products and more delivered. Our suggestion? Their subscription boxes make it easy to always have the staples on hand so you can skip the store on those unavoidably busy days.

206-503-0139
Online: local-yokels.com

 

Clean Greens Farm & Market

With spring and summer CSA season just around the corner, you might be on the lookout for a local farm to support. This year, order your fresh produce from Clean Greens Farm & Market, a non-profit founded in 2007 that's owned and operated by folks in the Central District. In addition to the weekly market, full and half produce shares, they also have a youth program that addresses food justice issues that affect BIPOC kids. As part of the Clean Greens Youth Program, kids ages 4-12 can learn about healthy living and sustainable farming with hands-on experiences.

Online: cleangreensfarmmarket.com

Estelita's Library

If you love books, people and social justice, we’ve discovered the perfect hangout spot. Estelita’s Library is a justice-focused community library and bookstore. Its mission is to foster a community space for people to build and learn through thoughtful interactions with each other. This unique space features a curated community bookstore and library with titles focused on social justice, ethnic studies and liberation movements. It adopts a community library model where members join and pay an annual fee to borrow books. Yearly memberships are available on a sliding scale. Bonus: The community library also hosts book talks, classes, meetings, history lessons and more.

Good to know: The store is currently closed because of the Omicron surge, but you can shop online.

2533 16th Ave. S.
Seattle, WA
415-342-9009
Online: estalitaslibrary.com

photo: courtesy Uniquely Savvy

Uniquely Savvy

Mom boss makeover, anyone? Kim at Uniquely Savvy can help. Her styling services save parents time and money by keeping them “tailored to the task.” Not sure what to wear for your body type or shape? Kim knows. And when it comes to your personal brand, she works with women to drill down and get to the heart of who they are, defining their strengths and talents so they’re seen and heard for the right reasons. It’s all about building confidence so you can look and do your best, no matter what professional (or personal) role you have.

425-503-9885
Online: uniquelysavvy.com

 

Gresham Financial

Gresham Financial owner and dad, Isaiah Gresham knows how important financial planning and peace of mind is to families, whether you're on your first or fourth (or beyond!) baby. And that's what families will find when they work with Gresham Financial to prepare annual taxes or plan for college tuition or private school fees. We think it's cool that Gresham even teaches financial best-practices to kids and teens. It's never too early to learn.

1700 Westlake Ave. N., Suite 200
Seattle, WA
206-350-9448
Online: seattleaccountingfirm.com

Lika Love Boutique

We love this local biz that started out years ago as a mobile fashion studio and has since grown into a thriving business with two storefront locations, focused on making fashion inclusive. Owner Malika Siddiq is passionate about fashion and she wants to make sure Lovelies of all shapes and sizes can find passion in their wardrobe as well. With expert stylists waiting at the ready, this is a great spot to find the perfect outfit for date night, work or a casual coffee with friends. Lots to love here.

Insider tip: If a parents night out is what you're after check out In the Heart, the speakeasy behind the West Seattle shop.

West Seattle
4547 California Ave. S.W.
Seattle, WA

Queen Anne
535 Warren Ave. N.
Seattle, WA

206-384-1710
Online: likalove.com

Where to Eat & Drink

Communion Restaurant & Bar

This hot brick and mortar, serving up “Seattle Soul,” is the latest venture from That Brown Girl Cooks! duo Chef Kristi Brown and her son, Damon Bomar. You’ll find favorites from TBGC!’s menu, like the Black Eyed Pea Hummus at Communion, alongside new creations that blend American soul food with Pacific Northwest influences—the Catfish Po’Mi is a great example of this ingenious mashup. 

2350 E. Union St.
Seattle, WA
206-257-4227
Online: communionseattle.com

 

Fat's Chicken & Waffles

Craving something hearty, filling and flavorful? You’re destined to find just what you’re looking for at Fat’s, a southern style, New Orleans-influenced restaurant in the heart of the Central District. Using authentic and natural ingredients, Fat’s serves up soulful delights including their signature chicken & waffles, shrimp & grits, red beans & rice and more. Breakfast, lunch or dinner, there is something on the menu to tantalize your taste buds. Try the Fat’s Sampler and dive into a little bit of everything. You’ll enjoy the laid-back vibe and delicious food at this Seattle favorite.

2726 E. Cherry St.
Seattle, WA
206-602-6863
Online: fatschickenandwaffles.com

Black Coffee Northwest

Black Coffee Northwest’s motto is “grounded in excellence,” and their commitment to brewing up great coffee and being a community hub for Black youth is just that. Just look to Grounded, Black Coffee Northwest's Youth Leadership Development Space to get a feel for the programming that includes after school study hours and internship opportunities. Plus, folks will find an array of Black-made products in their Black Marketplace any time you visit. The good news? A Ballard location is in the works for this local company.

16743 Aurora Ave. N.
Shoreline, WA
206-316-8366
Online: blackcoffeenw.com

The Station Community Coffee House

The Station Community Coffee House serves up more than just coffee and delicious food; it serves community. An icon in Seattle’s Beacon Hill neighborhood for many decades, The Station is home to artists, activists, advocates and others in search of a good cup of coffee. Try a cup of locally-sourced coffee and pair it with a sandwich (psst... put the El Centro on your list, a sandwich loaded with chicken, avocado, spinach, pepperjack, jalapeno and tomatoes). If you’re there for breakfast, don’t miss the homemade biscuits ‘n’ chorizo gravy.

1600 S. Roberto Maestas Festival St.
Seattle, WA 98144
206-931-1357
Online: thestationbh.com

Nana's Southern Kitchen

Crush your Southern comfort food craving on a cold winter day when you head to Nana’s in Kent. Owned by the Minor family, the traditional Southern favorites you'll find on their simple but scrumptious menu pay homage to great-grandma, Myrtle Henderson's cooking. The Mains are fried to perfection and the Sides are everything you want them to be—whether you’re eating collard greens, picnic-perfect potato salad or simply sweet candied yams. 

10234 S.E. 256th St., Suite 102
Kent, WA
253-243-6711
Online: nanassouthernway.com

Pot Pie Factory

Pot pies are the ultimate comfort food, and now you can have them delivered to your front door. Chef Logan Niles has reinvented this classic dish, crafting healthy, hearty pot pies with unforgettable flavor. She offers a flavor for every taste and dietary need, including classic chicken, BBQ pork, beef chili and many vegetarian and gluten-free options. Pies are freshly made, fully cooked and flash frozen. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat and enjoy. As a mom, Niles knows how challenging it can be for families to sit down and enjoy a meal together around the table. Her mission is to bring families and communities together over delicious, healthy food.

Online: potpiefactory.co

JuneBaby

JuneBaby is a celebration of Southern food, sharing its delicious tastes, textures and flavors through signature dishes like JuneBaby’s Fried Chicken and Red Beans & Rice with Hotlink Ragu. We also love their vegan menu favorites like Oven Roasted Beets with Walnuts, Ancient Grain Salad and Smoked Carrots. In addition to spreading the love of Southern food throughout Seattle, JuneBaby shares the cuisine’s humble beginnings. Southern “soul food” originated during American slavery and represents the food as well as the period of oppression. Its culinary influences come from West Africa, Western Europe and North America, resulting in tasty dishes paired with deep roots reflecting hard times and the resourcefulness and strength to overcome hardships. Order for takeout when cooking isn't on your menu.

2122 N.E. 65th St.
Seattle, WA
206-257-4470
Online: junebabyseattle.com

Plum Restaurants

Good food feeds the soul and strengthens community. Chef Makini Howell’s Plum Restaurants, including Plum Bistro, Chopped, SugarPlum and Plum Pantry, feature plant-based meals focused on organically-grown seasonal vegetables, non-GMO soy and local fruits and herbs from family-owned organic farms. As a lifelong vegan, Howell believes that what is good for the individual will be good for the planet and this starts with our diet. Her fresh take on vegan cuisine inspires and delights diners, and we're loving the new greenhouse outdoor dining option too.

1429 12th Ave.
Seattle, WA
206-838-5333
Online: plumbistro.com

photo: courtesy Ezell's Famous Chicken

Ezell's Famous Chicken

Fresh, high-quality chicken and delicious, home-cooked side dishes, served with exceptional service are what sets Ezell’s Famous Chicken apart from its competition. Since 1984, this locally owned family business has grown and now serves the community in 17 Seattle-area locations. Ezell’s traditional recipe uses a proprietary battering process that seals in the flavor while locking out oils. If you prefer a little zing, try the spicy chicken which is marinated for 24 hours in a New Orleans-style seasoning, giving you full flavor in every bite. Ezell’s is committed to serving good food, while also giving back to the community and supporting local organizations that help neighbors in need.

Online: ezellschicken.com

Health & Beauty

MOTSI

Finding the time to "put your face on" isn't always in the cards for parents. But with MOTSI, the brainchild of Courtney LeMarco, Bellevue-based entrepreneur and entertainment industry veteran, you can always have great skin. The thoughtful formulation behind this line delivers products that are cruelty-free, vegan and void of things like parabens, silicone and talc (to name a few). And while MOTSI's moisturizers, masks, mists, gels and serums are definitely luxurious, it's not reflected in the price. Talk about a win for parents. The charcoal mask is one of our favorites, and for dad, try the cold brew beard oil.

Online: motsicouture.com

 

Valerie Madison Fine Jewelry

Whether you’re looking for a special gift for someone or a pick-me-up for yourself, you’ll find creative and responsibly-made necklaces, earrings, bracelets and more at this downtown shop. In addition to using recycled materials to make their inspired designs, Valerie Mason Jewelry is committed to sourcing conflict-free diamonds (usually) from Canada.

 
1411 24th Ave.
Seattle, WA
206-395-6359
Online: valeriemadison.com

photo: courtesy Compfit

Compfit

If getting fit is on your parent to-do list, Eric Wilson of Compfit can help. He brings his personal philosophy to each client's fitness journey, using his Comprehensive Lifestyle Plan (CLP) to help you achieve your specific fitness goals. Right now, classes are being offered online and in-studio, and offer a mix of exciting aerobics like Hoopnotica, Oula and Capoeira with strength classes like Barre and Lean & Tone. You'll be ready for the splash pad scene in no time!  

4501 Interlake Ave. N., #6
Seattle, WA
206-579-6880
Online: compfit.com

 

Maya Whole Health Studios

As the name implies, Maya Whole Health Studio offers services that connect your mind, body and spirit and work to bring health and energy to patrons and the community. Whether you’re looking for an innovative yoga class, a great Pilates workout, a restful massage or an acupuncture session, you can find expert practitioners here. They're currently offering classes both in-studio and online.

1322 Lake Washington Blvd. N., Suite 3
Renton, WA
425-271-0200
Online: mayawholehealth.com

photo: The Ride

The Ride

Get ready for a 45-minute transformative cycling experience that will keep you coming back for more! From high-end cycle bikes to top notch instructor-curated playlists, muted lighting to tiered seating, this cycle studio caters to all riders–from beginning to advanced. For more than 20 years, founder and master instructor, Aina Oyewole-Williams, has been bringing fitness-minded people together to heal, transform and connect. Her teaching method and studio environment support personal change and growth on all levels. Bonus: Mix up your routine and improve your strength and mobility by trying a Body Camp class.

112 E. Lynn St.
Seattle, WA
206-453-3518
Online: therideseattle.com

 

City Sweats

Sweat your way to wellness at City Sweats, Seattle’s infrared sauna lounge. Come alone or bring a friend (hello, gal pal time!) and discover the healthy benefits of sweating it out. Explore other holistic detox treatments like a sauna wrap, lymphatic drainage, organic facial or organic massage when you visit. It's a sure fire way to treat yourself to a relaxing, quiet time that will refresh your mind and body. Since 2014, City Sweats has been a pioneer in Seattle’s infrared movement, committing to making infrared therapy more accessible and convenient.

Various Seattle-area locations
Online: citysweats.com

photo: Rainier Health & Fitness

Rainier Health & Fitness

Rainier Health & Fitness is so much more than a gym. This South Seattle non-profit health organization makes exercise fun, accessible, and affordable. It encourages healthy lifestyles, strong bodies, and authentic community through its high-quality fitness center. Founder Sili Kalepo, along with friends and non-profit Urban Impact, opened the first gym in 2005 inside a warehouse after recognizing that fitness centers were sparse in South Seattle neighborhoods. In October 2013, Kalepo opened the current location, continuing to serve the Rainier Beach community by offering comprehensive health and fitness services at reduced rates, aiming to remove obstacles that prevent people from making exercise a regular part of life. Rainier Health & Fitness offers a full spectrum of fitness classes including cardio/dance classes, senior classes, yoga and personal training. 

7722 Rainier Avenue S.
Seattle, WA
206-725-0279
Online: rainierhealth.com

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

KJ's Cakery Bakery

Creative confections and cakes abound at KJ’s Cakery Bakery. This boutique bake shop offers custom desserts that meet every customer’s specific request. Founder, Kathy Jo Miller, has had a love for baking and an entrepreneurial spirit since she was a young girl. Her first foray into the bakery world was Taylor Made Pantry, a bakery focusing on cake pops. The business grew and evolved and KJ’s Cakery Bakery was born. Whether you're looking for a custom cake, cupcakes, popcorn, cotton candy, paint-your-own cookies, hot cocoa bombs—you get the picture—this is the spot to find it.

204 Central Ave. N. #102
Kent, WA
253-277-2516
Online: kjscakerybakery.com

Scoop Du Jour Ice Creamery

Grab some of Scoop Du Jour’s delicious ice cream in a waffle cone and walk down to the park or waterfront in Madison Park. No frills and around forever, Scoop Du Jour is an unpretentious, beloved Seattle tradition. Don’t miss out on their kid-approved burgers or grilled cheese, either.

4029 E. Madison St.
Seattle, WA
206-352-9562
Online: facebook.com

Home Life

Jacob Willard Home

If you’ve got your heart set on a new-to-you vintage or mid-century piece for your space, chances are you’ll find it at Jacob Willard Home. This family-owned furniture store located in Rainier Valley has been part of the Hillman City community for around a decade. Known for their record player and vintage vinyl collection, this is more than just a furniture spot.

5600 Rainier Ave. S.
Seattle, WA
Online: jwillardhome.com

Adorned Abode

Whether you’re looking for that just-right gift, or you want to find something special for yourself, you’ll find what you need at Adorned Abode. Since its opening in 2016, shop owner, Benita Smith has sourced eye-catching locally-made, fair-trade products that support small businesses. The best part? Each month a portion of the sales is donated to a local service group in the community. Get good. Do good. It’s a win-win. Schedule your shopping appointment online.

Old Freighthouse Square
2501 E. D St., Suite 53
Tacoma, WA
253-301-0215
Online: adornedabode.net

Sukie's Candle Co.

Who doesn't love a good scented candle? They make great gifts, but they’re also a little pick-me-up you can burn at home on grey winter day. Treat yourself (or a friend) to a premium soy wax candle from this local company that also has its eye on sustainability. Each candle is hand-poured when it’s ordered and they come in intriguing scents like cinnamon chai and sea salt orchid.

Online: sukiescandleco.com

photo: photo library

Herbanfarm

Pike Place Market’s Herbanfarm is kind of a big dill (pun intended!). Founded by Ras Levy Peynado, the son of a market craftsperson and a Jamaican fourth generation farmer, this urban farm grows all of its herbs and peppers by hand in North Seattle. Herbanfarm’s wide variety of herbs are incorporated into small batch culinary spice blends, seasonings, sauces, salts, vinegars, mustards, teas, as well as health and beauty products. All ingredients are harvested using organic farming practices that have been passed down from farmer to farmer for generations. The commitment to these practices is what preserves the taste and smell of these flavorful and aromatic herbs and peppers.

Online: herbanfarmonline.com

Got a business you’d like to see included? Email us at blm@tinybeans.go-vip.net.

—Allison Sutcliffe & Abbey McGee

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