If you’re seeking to support Black-owned businesses with authentic taste, Worcester is home to many offering an eclectic and delicious variety. The list below will get you started and includes recommendations for dishes to try.
Known for their customer service and unbeatable value, you’ll find classic comfort foods at Addie Lee’s. Popular dishes include their fried chicken, beef ribs that “fall off the bone” and heavenly peach cobbler, as attested by many locals.
Emmanuel Labri is the entrepreneur bringing the “taste of Ghana” to Worcester, first at Accra Girls and most recently at ākra Eatery & Juice Bar. Try the Omo Tuo, a Ghanaian staple food made with rice, served in a peanut butter soup with goat meat.
ākra Eatery and Juice Bar features natural food influenced by West African cooking traditions and is based inside the buzzing Worcester Public Market. Create your own bowl or wrap, or try classics like the Waakye Bowl. As for drinks, locals especially enjoy the Juixe.
If you visit for dinner, try the Sizzling Akomfem (guinea fowl) at this Afro Ghanaian-American restaurant. If you’re just looking for a snack, you can’t go wrong with the fried plantains and an Alvaro, a unique refreshing natural malt drink.
Discover Jamaican favorites at Aretha’s Kitchen, described as “a hidden gem” by locals. Try the Ackee Salt Fish or Jerk Chicken for an authentic Jamaican dinner experience.
Enjoy a savory soulful twist on Jamaican and American inspired dishes at Belmont, where a meat-free, non-dairy, body-nourishing diet is the cornerstone of the menu design - perfect for vegan and vegetarians alike. Try the veggie stew or create your own combo plate.
In the heart of Main South you’ll find delectable oxtail with mac and cheese at Caribbean Flaavor, a Jamaican restaurant where you’re invited to discover the fresh and bold flavors of the Caribbean without packing your luggage. Try their homemade Jamaican Beef Patties if you’re looking for a quick bite on the go.
Find African cuisine on Main Street at Elder Paintsil's. Locals recommend the jolloff rice fried fish and fried tomato stew.
Omar and Fatima’s café restaurant provides a taste of home with traditional dishes served with care. The Somali chicken and steak sandwiches are popular favorites with guests and are filled to the edges with seasoned meat, peppers and onions.
Check out Gold Coast for both takeout and event catering, as they’ve led Central Massachusetts in multi-cultural catering since 2011. Also, their fish & chips, available on Fridays, is a fabulous deal that should not be missed.
A staple of their neighborhood, Jamaica Thymes is a great choice if you’re looking for Caribbean favorites. Try the steamed red snapper or if you’re looking for beef patties, but get there early because their most popular choices often sell out.