Highlighting the best local Black-owned spots, with storytelling flair.
The Culture is Cooked In
Austin’s food scene has grown fast—but in between the BBQ joints and avocado toasts, Black-owned kitchens have been holding it down for years. They’ve been feeding the community with more than just food. These spots are safe spaces, creative hubs, family businesses, and celebrations of heritage.
This isn’t just a “places to eat” list—it’s a love letter to the restaurants that nourish us deeply.
Let’s eat.
1. Hoover’s Cooking – Eastside Soul with History
📍 2002 Manor Rd
A staple in East Austin for over two decades, Hoover’s is the real deal. Smothered pork chops, oxtails, cornbread, and sweet tea that feels like a hug. Owner Hoover Alexander has been serving Southern comfort with a mission—uplifting local food, history, and community.
Moody Mood: A soulful Sunday plate with grandma’s energy.
2. Bird Bird Biscuit – Creative Breakfast With a Kick
📍 2701 Manor Rd & 1401 W Koenig Ln
Founded by Ryan McElroy and Brian Batch, this spot became a local obsession for its buttery, flaky biscuit sandwiches and unapologetically creative flavors. Think: hot chicken, basil pesto, or a soft egg explosion at brunch.
Moody Mood: That early morning chaos before a creative session—deliciously messy, 100% worth it.
3. Tony’s Jamaican Food – A Hidden Gem Food Truck
📍 1160 Airport Blvd (near MLK & Airport)
No frills, just flavor. Tony’s is an OG when it comes to authentic Jamaican food in Austin. Jerk chicken, curry goat, rice & peas—this truck hits every time. Bring cash, bring patience, and bring your appetite.
Moody Mood: A warm plate that tastes like music and memory.
4. Cranky Granny’s Sweet Rolls – Cinnamon Rolls With Soul
📍 1604 E 11th St, inside the Black Market Retail store
These are not your average cinnamon rolls. Founder and CEO Tavey "Cranky Granny" created a whole experience out of these sweet treats—think oversized, pillowy rolls topped with flavors like banana pudding, strawberry shortcake, and cookies & cream.
Moody Mood: That “treat yo’self” moment when you deserve something soft and sugary and extra.
5. Whip My Soul – Comfort Food That Hits Every Time
📍 1100 Grand Ave Pkwy #113, Pflugerville
Whip My Soul brings the kind of soul food that sticks with you. Chicken and waffles, baked mac & cheese, fried catfish, and Kool-Aid that tastes like childhood. Everything’s made with love and seasoned to perfection.
Moody Mood: That “I need a real meal” moment after a long week—and the vibe is straight-up comfort.
6. Zakiya’s Treats – Sweetness From Scratch
📍 Order via IG or local pop-ups (@zakiyastreats)
Zakiya’s doesn’t have a storefront (yet)—but she’s one of the city’s most beloved treat makers. Cakes, cookies, banana puddings, and those softest-ever cinnamon rolls. Watch her Instagram for updates.
Moody Mood: A soft life dessert with small business energy and a sprinkle of love.
7. Taste of Ethiopia – Bold Flavors, Family-Owned
📍 1100 Grand Ave Pkwy #100, Pflugerville
Just outside the city in Pflugerville, this Black-owned Ethiopian restaurant is a whole vibe. Samosas, spicy lentils, doro wat, and injera served with love. Family-owned and operated, it’s worth the short drive for a full-body food experience.
Moody Mood: When you’re craving community, conversation, and something that sticks to your soul.
8. Wingzup – Flavorful Wings With a Twist
📍 11900 Metric Blvd
Wings, yes—but with over 20 custom sauces, including ones you won’t find anywhere else (hello, Mango Habanero and Cajun Ranch). Their loaded fries, burgers, and lemonades are local favorites too.
Moody Mood: Late night cravings, game day vibes, or post-photoshoot hunger hits.
9. The Black Food Truck Court (Coming Soon)
📍 East Austin
More than a restaurant—this is a movement. A collective space built to spotlight Black-owned culinary talent in one place. Still in development, but already gaining buzz in the local community. Keep your eyes peeled and your stomach ready.
Moody Mood: Future-forward flavor and community-driven vision.
Final Word:
Supporting Black-owned restaurants isn’t just about where you eat—it’s about how you support culture, community, and creativity. These spots aren’t side notes in the Austin food scene—they’re the soul of it.
So whether you’re local or visiting, put your money where your mouth is—literally. And when you find a favorite, don’t just post it—pass it on. Word of mouth keeps these stories alive.
🍽 Got a favorite we missed? Tag @MoodyStudiosCo and let us know which Black-owned spots deserve a feature in the next edition.
