You won’t regret it!

If you haven’t had a plate of jerk chicken yet, you’re missing out! But don’t worry; You can always take a trip to Little Jamaica on Eglinton West.

Toronto is known for its diverse food scene, making it easy for you to discover different cuisines from amazing spots. And if you’re always looking for restaurants serving up delicious bites, I have the perfect solution: Black-owned restaurants.

They’re known for serving comfort food, with explosive flavours. Plus, you’ll get the chance to experience a taste of the Caribbean or Africa in one bite. Here are four Black-owned restaurants to visit in Toronto.

Chadon Beni

A serving of fried lobster tacos, made with chadon beni. The tacos are resting on a cutting board.
Image via Chadon Beni

For all the Trinis out there, this spot is for you!

Serving dishes made with the herb chadon beni, this restaurant brings Trinidadian flavours right to Toronto. Traditional meals such as bake and shak and conch fritters will have you asking for a second plate.

And if you like spicy food, you should pair your meals with their signature pepper sauce.

Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen

A serving of jerk chicken and salad on a white plate. Behing the jerk chicken, there is a serving of rice.
Image via Blogto

Experience Jamaica without booking a flight.

Every aspect of this restaurant, from the decor to the menu, represents Jamaica. Whether you’re craving pepper shrimp, or ackee and saltfish, serving authentic Jamaica meals is what Chubby’s does best.

Immerse yourself in the island’s vibrant culture and cuisine, right at the restaurant. And you’ll definitely feel like you’re in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

Discover all the sweet tings at Chubby’s.

Afrobeat kitchen

A plate of buka beef stew served with rice, hard- boiled egg and fried plantain.
Image via BlogTO

What started as a pop-up for Nigerian food is now an independent restaurant on Queen Street. This cozy spot serves traditional meals such as goat pepper soup, egusi soup and buka beef stew.

Experience a taste of Lagos while visiting Afrobeat Kitchen. The different flavour profiles and spices of each dish make them the perfect bite.

Instant du palais

A serving of garba which includes fried tuna fish, attieke, vegetables and pepper.
Image via Yelp

With dishes originating from Senegal and the Ivory Coast, this restaurant is the go-to spot for West African meals. On the menu, you will find garba and poulet yassa, among other delicious dishes.

Not to mention, the excellent customer service makes it worth the visit. Plus, you can enjoy delicious meals for reasonable prices!

Now that you’re aware of all the amazing Black-owned restaurants. It’s time to book a reservation. Pick a day and visit one of these amazing restaurants. Not only will your tastebuds thank you, you won’t break your bank either. It’s a win-win situation to me!

And even if you’re too busy to dine in, don’t worry! You can experience some amazing food from Black-owned restaurants right here on campus! All you have to do is attend the upcoming showcase.

Black Excellence Showcase

a person addressing the audience
via IGNITE

In partnership with Black Student Support and Engagement, we are hosting a Black Excellence Showcase on Thursday, Oct. 12.

Featuring live steelpan music, art and spoken word performances, this is an event you don’t want to miss!

But that’s not all! We’re offering free haircuts on top of a hair session by Crown N’ Glory who will discuss everything related to Black hair.

This event will be hosted at North Campus, in the Learning Resource Commons. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., you’ll have the chance to celebrate Black culture – food, art, music, and much more. And don’t worry, it’s completely free!

Now, go ahead and mark your calendar. That way, you won’t forget to attend!

Here’s how BSSE supports the Black community on campus.

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