For the @flavorbehavior squad, going out to eat is about more than just the food; "We look for the perfect combo of flavor and fun," says founder, Kylah Williams. Here are a few of their fave Black-owned NYC and NJ spots to catch a vibe.
Less"It’s co-owned by Nas," says founder Kylah Williams, "so you know the music playing while you brunch is going to be immaculate. Sweet Chick is all about spreading love (it’s the Brooklyn way), and we definitely felt the love from their team working in the store. The Sweet Chick crew is young and super helpful. You won’t just enjoy the chicken and waffles here but you’ll come back for the fire vibes. #sweetchicklife."
We’re huge caribbean food fans so it’s hard to pick our favorites, but Omar won us over. It’s like you’ve been transported to the Caribbean all while in the lower east side.The drinks are just as good as the food, especially the Pynk Lady. The playlist that plays while you eat makes the food taste even better. The bathroom is even decorated with a bunch of vinyls. Keep an eye out for Omar because he might just be around!
"This place got us so hype about eating plant-based. From the painted 'aunt’s et uncles' label on their front window to doubling as a shop, the aesthetic is there. Not only do they serve up bomb plant-based dishes, but you can also purchase sage, plants, tote bags, and books like the Four Agreements. We’d literally chill and eat here all day if we could. Also, the two owners are just as cool."
"Boozy shakes, frosés, chicken sandwiches, and honestly just a great vibe. The retro Harlem diner feel is just so dope. You’re not living if you’re not dining in Harlem to be honest. Big shout out to the waiters and the chefs, great vibes and cool people."
"Going here is like taking a quick flight to the Caribbean while staying in NYC. The cute little backyard shack-like patio is colored turquoise and gives beachy vibes. Small but cute, it’s a really fun spot to go to with a few friends, especially in the summer. Two sisters of our Flavor Behavior team are from the West Indies, so they definitely feel a connection to the Caribbean cuisine!"
"Go here if you know you want to have a good time. We went here for our birthday brunch and it really felt like they were family. Something about this place just brings such a sense of community. It’s a local East Orange favorite and we will 100% be back for our next bday. They also host paint-and-sips from time to time so be on the look out for that."
"When we walked in, the bright green walls immediately caught our eye. It’s a fast-casual spot, but even if you stop in for just a second, the atmosphere is awesome. Coming from a food truck to a storefront, you can tell the two young owners took their time decorating this location. Stop by for a quick quesadilla, burrito, or taco, and peep the graffiti’d 'bro-ritos' sign spread across the wall. Also, the two young business owners are super chill!"
"Full of graffiti, the urban vibes are there. Honestly, we felt like we were in a museum with a side of vegan food. Disco balls line the ceiling, along with black-and-white photos of Black legends, artists, and entertainers. We love seeing that a restaurant owner has really taken the time to design the interior, and everything from the upstairs to downstairs rooms is super artsy."