New to Milwaukee or looking to try something new? Check out some of the best and most popular Black businesses in the area.
Or, discover more:
- Near West Side
- 10 Black Owned Vegan Eats in Milwaukee
- Gift Cards from Milwaukee Black Owned Businesses
In the mood for food…
With nearly 80 Black owned food and drink establishments, the Milwaukee area is no stranger to southern inspired cuisine. Coffee Makes You Black offers a wonderful chicken and waffle breakfast, as well as mango tea. Morning favorites of scrambled eggs, bacon, and hash browns are a must try at Rise and Grind Cafe, located in Sherman Phoenix. Located a few steps away is Funky Fresh, known for their grilled spring rolls and homemade sauces.
In the mood for soul? Head over to Daddy’s Soul Food & Grille, one of the city’s best southern style restaurants. With so many options, you can’t go wrong with the catfish, chicken, pork chops, or really anything on the menu. For an elegant night on the town experience On the Bajou‘s famous catfish, gumbo, and crab boil in their beautiful and historic building. For vegan diners Twisted Plants is the area’s go to place for delicious plant based burgers. Favorites such as the Chopped & Screwed, Pineapple Express, and the Big Lebowski will surely satisfy your appetite.
Still have room for dessert? Confectionately Yours (in Sherman Phoenix) offers brownies, cookies, cakes, and cobblers to satisfy your sweet tooth. Bougie Berries specializes in delectable cupcakes, chocolate covered berries, and “fire” desserts. If popcorn is more your style then Goody Gourmets is well worth your visit. Some favorites flavors include bacon, BBQ, sour cream & chive, and banana pudding. Last, but not least, Tastee Twist has been a local staple for generations, serving Milwaukeeans classic soft-serve ice cream since 1979.
Shop til’ you drop…
With over 25 local brands in one space (from mostly Black businesses), The Bronzeville Collective offers something for everyone. Discover handcrafted jewelry, one of a kind apparel, bath products and more. Born out of the ashes of unrest, Sherman Phoenix offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and services. Visit the The Underground Makers Market, Queens’ Closet, and None Above for the latest fashion and handcrafted items.
Hitting the bar…
Milwaukee is known as “Brew City” for a reason, as it offers an exciting nightlife with ample places to drink, dance, and socialize. For an upscale experience, visit KISS Ultra Lounge, which offers the very best in cocktails, food, partying, and entertainment. If you’re into Reggae and hip-hop, Club Timbuktu is a can’t miss with live music, DJs, and Caribbean food. Jazz fans are in luck at Garfield’s 502. The neighborhood bar, described as one of the city’s “best kept secrets,” features live Jazz, an eclectic menu, great drinks, and even better company.
Catch Milwaukee Bucks, Brewers, and Green Bay Packers games at the 4th Quarter Sports Bar and Grill and Skybox Sports Bar, conveniently located near the Harambee neighborhood.
Dive into local history…
Milwaukee is home to a few museums that dive into African American history. America’s Black Holocaust Museum offers vast knowledge of the harmful effects of slavery and the road to reconciliation. While their new building is fully open as of 2022, you can dive into history through its digital collection. The Wisconsin Black Historical Society documents and preserve African American history and culture in Wisconsin. Located in a former library and fire station, the museum features many interesting exhibits that provide a look into past times.
Discover the arts…
Milwaukee has a thriving Black arts scene, and is home to many galleries, events, and art based businesses. Vibez Creative Arts Space is the city’s premiere urban paint and sip space, located inside Southridge Mall. Cream City Print Lounge offers a similar concept, with print and paint (and sip) classes and parties. For art lovers, explore originals in 5 Points Art Gallery & Studios and Greenwood Park Gallery and Framing.
Founded by Oscar winner and Milwaukee native John Ridley, Nō Studios offers an environment for artists and art lovers to come together. The venue hosts dozens of events a year including performances, gallery nights, summits and more. Milwaukee is also home to Black Arts Fest, an annual lakefront event that honors African American heritage culture through performances, activities, and local vendors.