Memphis Black Restaurant Week is back and residents are already well into their culinary adventures through the city’s Black-owned restaurants, enjoying special deals and supporting local businesses.
Launched in 2016, MBRW is a powerful initiative highlighting the talents of Black chefs and restaurateurs within Memphis. It serves as a catalyst for economic growth and fosters a sense of community pride. Since its inception, MBRW has generated over $2.5 million for participating restaurants.
“Memphis is a wonderful city, full of promise and potential,” said Cynthia Daniels, founder of MBRW, in a 2022 Tri-State Defender story. “Sure, we have our problems. Every big city does. But seven years ago when I started, I envisioned what the week could become.”
This year, 29 restaurants are participating, each offering unique deals and special menus. Whether you crave soul food classics like fried catfish and mac and cheese, or have a hankering for innovative takes on global flavors, there’s something to tempt every palate.
Why participate in MBRW?
“It is thrilling to see it grow so quickly. That first year, I had eight participating restaurants. This year, I have 28, despite the very real struggle of establishments struggling to keep their doors open,” Daniels reflected.
Daniels encourages Memphians of all backgrounds to make an “intentional effort” to support Black-owned restaurants throughout the year. “If we only go and eat at Black restaurants during Black Restaurant Week, then we’re all kind of missing the point,” she said.
How to participate:
- Visit the official MBRW website for a list of participating restaurants and their offers.
- Make reservations in advance.
- Share your MBRW experiences on social media with #MBRW2024.
“Sharing a meal together brings people together. It always has. When dollars are spent in the Black business community, everyone wins. Supporting Black restaurants is something we can all get behind,” Daniels emphasized.
- Discover new culinary gems within Memphis.
- Support Black-owned businesses, a vital part of our community.
- Experience the rich tapestry of Memphis’ Black culinary heritage.
- Enjoy delicious deals and multi-course menus.
“It is thrilling to see it grow so quickly. That first year, I had eight participating restaurants. This year, I have 28, despite the very real struggle of establishments struggling to keep their doors open,” Daniels reflected.
Daniels encourages Memphians of all backgrounds to make an “intentional effort” to support Black-owned restaurants throughout the year. “If we only go and eat at Black restaurants during Black Restaurant Week, then we’re all kind of missing the point,” she said.
How to participate:
- Visit the official MBRW website for a list of participating restaurants and their offers.
- Make reservations in advance.
- Share your MBRW experiences on social media with #MBRW2024.
“Sharing a meal together brings people together. It always has. When dollars are spent in the Black business community, everyone wins. Supporting Black restaurants is something we can all get behind,” Daniels emphasized.
