Your dollars can help create change for the better.
Shopping local and minority-owned is important every month of the year, but in honor of Black History Month, we wanted to shine a light on some of our favorite local, Black-owned and/or inclusive shops, restaurants, and makers to get them on your radar. By spending money at local Black-owned businesses, you can help combat this and fuel positive economic and social changes such as closing the racial wealth gap, creating jobs, and amplifying Black voices. Here’s our list of 10 local, Black-owned businesses we think deserve your support.
1. Urban Sanctuary Wellness Studio
Owner Ali Duncan is a former police officer turned Yogi who opened Urban Sanctuary as an all-inclusive studio to practice health and wellness in Five Points. The historical building, once occupied by Frederick Douglass’ sons. This year, they’ll be offering 3 in person or virtual classes for only $23.
Where: 2745 Welton St, Denver, CO 80205
2. Novel Strand Brewing
Novel Strand Brewing is making the best beer that they can free of gimmicks and fads. Located in Denver’s historic Baker neighborhood, it was established by co-owners, Ayana Coker, Chantel Columna, and Tamir Danon, who used to sit around sipping beer at bars in New York and talk about opening up their own shop. Now, you can enjoy their menu filled with “Classiques,” Hoppy beer, and Sours.
Where: 305 W 1st Ave, Denver, CO 80223
3. Tattered Cover Bookstore
Tattered is the largest Indie bookstore in Colorado and they’re always holding events and space for Black history. With values like diversity, community, and conversations, Tattered is a great spot to come and show support with your dollar.
Where: 2526 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206
1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
4. African Grill & Bar
Head over to Lakewood for a delicious, no-frills hole in the wall spot that’s absolutely delicious. The focus is on homemade African cuisine, specifically from where the owners Theodora and Sylvester are from, Ghana. Think of smothered Oxtail, Rice, Coconut Stew, and Plantains. They’re open for dine in and takeout 11am – 9 pm, Monday’s through Saturdays, closed on Sundays.
Where: 955 S Kipling Pkwy, Lakewood, CO 80226
5. Bloom & Nosh
With spring and Easter almost here, we thought we’d shine a light on this local flower business doing hand-tied bouquets available for delivery. Milli Boateng is the woman behind the brand, which makes special occasion blooms for weddings, parties, and more. You can email her if you’d like a custom request at the form on their website.
6. Walia Creamery
Walia Creamery is a local, family-owned ice cream shop doing small batches of delicious treats Walia is unique in that they do a variety of standard and vegan flavors like vegan lavender, vegan chai, and vegan sweet potato just to name a few. For their classic flavors, try key lime, lemon cheesecake, or butter pecan. They’ve also got food specials to go along with it, like plates of Ethiopian food.
Where: 1119 Syracuse St, Denver, CO 80220
7. ILA Gallery
Spend a day checking out this inclusive space dedicated to inclusive art, hip-hop, and it’s legacy within culture. Come by, check out the art space by all types of artists in all mediums and maybe start a collection of your own. All the artwork is online and well-priced which takes away the elitism of art collecting that the space is typically known for.
Where: 209 Kalamath St Unit 12, Denver, CO 80223
8. Kabod Coffee
This spot has got Ethiopian-roast coffee imported straight from Ethiopia, giving a lighter mouthfeel, higher acidity, and fruitier notes. Definitely great for people who are less akin to extra roasted brews from Starbucks and like complex, lighter pour overs or batch coffee. They’re certified organic and sourced from family-owned farms, making them an excellent spot to show support. Pair your coffee with a bagel sandwich or choose from a delicious selection of pastries.
Where: 8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249
[featured image by novelstrandbrewing via instagram]