Black businesses are a testament to resilience, innovation, and the lasting impact of Black labor. From pioneering entrepreneurs to thriving small businesses today, Black business owners have played a crucial role in shaping economies, industries, and communities. Yet, the fight for economic justice, fair wages, and opportunity—themes central to this year’s Black History Month—remains ongoing.

Founded in 1915 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH®) established Black History Month to ensure Black history was preserved and celebrated. The 2025 theme, "African Americans and Labor," honors the generations of Black workers—from enslaved laborers who built the nation’s foundations to union leaders, activists, and entrepreneurs who have fought for dignity, opportunity, and economic empowerment.

Economic justice is key to breaking cycles of exploitation, including sex trafficking. At REST, we see firsthand how financial vulnerability makes individuals more susceptible to trafficking and exploitation. Expanding pathways to freedom, safety, and hope means ensuring survivors have access to stable employment, entrepreneurship opportunities, and economic mobility. This is why supporting Black-owned businesses is more than just a symbolic act—it is a way to invest in communities, create sustainable opportunities, and challenge systemic inequities that fuel cycles of vulnerability.

By shopping at and uplifting Black-owned businesses, we contribute to a future where economic empowerment strengthens communities and reduces vulnerability to exploitation. Below, we’ve gathered a growing list of Black-owned businesses, recommended by our staff and community. By visiting, shopping, or sharing these establishments, you help support Black entrepreneurship and advance economic justice.

Check back often, as we’ll be expanding this list throughout February! If there’s a Black-owned business we should highlight, let us know—we’d love to add them.

Food & BeveragE

Boon Boona Coffee

Founder & CEO: Efrem Fesaha Location: 1223 E Cherry St Ste. C121B, Seattle, WA 98122
Website: boonboonacoffee.com

Boon Boona Coffee sources high-quality coffee beans exclusively from Africa, with a strong focus on supporting woman-owned growers and forging new paths in the coffee industry. Each cup is a celebration of African heritage, equitable trade, and the legacy of Black entrepreneurship.

As our Engagement Coordinator, Josh Cuellar, puts it: "Great coffee and even better people!"

Café Campagne

Owner & Executive Chef: Daisley Gordon Location: 1600 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101
Website: cafecampagne.com

A hidden gem in the heart of Seattle, Café Campagne combines relaxed bistro vibes with refined French flair. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely cappuccino or an elegant meal. By visiting this Black-owned bistro, you’re indulging in delicious cuisine while also supporting local entrepreneurship.

The Comfort Zone

Owners: Talya Miller and her daughter, LaShon Lewis Location: 3642 33rd Ave S c6, Seattle, WA 98144
Website: thecomfortzonesoulfood.com

Craving Southern-style comfort food? This soul food heaven in the Pacific Northwest serves up bold flavors and generous portions, capturing the spirit of home-cooked Southern classics. The Comfort Zone catered our staff holiday party last year, and we still can’t stop talking about it! Each bite goes beyond just a meal—it’s a celebration of Black culinary tradition.

Our Director of Survivor Services, Yasminda Dorrough, is a big fan of their fried catfish and mac and cheese—a must-try for anyone looking for authentic, comforting flavors.

Emerald City Fish & Chips

Owner & Operator: Stevie Allen Location: 3756 Rainier Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144
Website: emeraldcityfishnchipsseattle.com

Serving up Southern-inspired recipes with a Northwest twist, Emerald City offers cod, halibut, catfish, and salmon. As a Buy Black Card location, it proudly aligns with efforts to keep Black dollars within Black communities, underscoring the economic impact of supporting Black-owned businesses.

Lil Red’s Takeout & Catering

Owner: Erasto “Red” Jackson Location: 4225 Rainier Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118
Website: orderlilredtakeout.com

A Black-owned barbecue restaurant serving up barbecue, soul food, and Jamaican dishes—all under one roof. Lil Red’s menu honors Black culinary traditions, blending Southern comfort with Caribbean flair. Known for its bold flavors and generous portions, this spot is a REST team favorite, frequented often for its delicious and satisfying meals.

The Scene in South Park

Owners: Michelle Lang-Raymond and Jay Raymond Location: 1249 S Cloverdale St, Seattle, WA 98108
Website: instagram.com/thesceneinsouthpark

A Black-owned gem in the heart of South Park, The Scene is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a community hub. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to work, a cozy corner to enjoy a book, or a welcoming space to connect with neighbors. The Scene provides a warm, inviting atmosphere, offering delicious drinks, a commitment to local artistry, and a strong sense of belonging for the South Park community.

Retail & Lifestyle

ARTE NOIR is a nonprofit Black arts and culture retail shop and gallery located in Seattle’s historic Central District. Every item sold is crafted by Black artists and makers, with 100% of net proceeds going directly to them. By shopping and engaging with ARTE NOIR, visitors support Black artists and entrepreneurs while experiencing a vibrant celebration of Black culture.

Avenue South

Founder & Owner: Nyema Clark
Website: avenuesouthshop.com

Avenue South creates culinary and body products using all-natural ingredients, carefully crafted to nourish both the body and soul. Their handmade, high-quality products reflect a deep commitment to sustainability and wellness, making them a standout in both the kitchen and self-care routines. From their thoughtfully sourced ingredients to their dedication to natural, handcrafted excellence, Avenue South is a must-try.

Our CEO, Elizabeth Hodges, first discovered their products at the Black Artists Market and absolutely loved them!

Noir Lux Candle Bar

Founder & Candler: Colina Bruce Location: 3020 Warren Pl, Seattle, WA 98121
Website: noirluxcandleco.com

Looking for handcrafted candles or a creative night out? Noir Lux Candle Bar offers premium soy wax candles and hands-on candle-pouring workshops, letting you craft your own custom scent. Not only will you walk away with something that smells amazing, but you’ll also be supporting a Black-owned business dedicated to spreading “good times and great vibes.”

Art, Creativity & Media

Converge Media is a dynamic media platform amplifying African-American voices across the region. Beyond showcasing independent creators, they’ve also helped boost our own content to an engaged, supportive audience. Their dedication to storytelling, cultural representation, and community-led narratives helps ensure the stories that matter are front and center.

DNA&STONE

Founder & Chair: Alan Brown CEO: Chris Witherspoon Location: 900 E Pine St #202, Seattle, WA 98122
Website: dnacreates.com

Now in its 26th year, DNA&STONE (formerly DNA) is an LGBTQ+ and Black-owned creative agency driven by the motto “Different Wins.” Their groundbreaking work in design, branding, and storytelling has made them an essential creative force in Seattle and beyond. They’ve been instrumental partners for two of our community art shows, empowering survivors to share their art with the world.

KPH Media LLC

Owner: Kevin P. Henry Website: kevinphenry.com

Bridging engagement and understanding, KPH Media LLC specializes in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) communications and training. Founder Kevin P. Henry partners with private and public sectors, businesses, and nonprofits, utilizing strategic planning, facilitation, and writing to help organizations foster meaningful change and inclusive practices.

Kevin is producing short educational videos and podcasts highlighting Black History in February and other ethnic and racial groups throughout 2025. Check them out here!

The Facts

Owners: Marla and LaVonne Beaver Location: 1112 34th Ave, Seattle WA 98122
Website: thefactsnewspaper.com

The Facts Newspaper, established on September 7, 1961, by Fitzgerald Redd Beaver, is one of the first Black-oriented newspapers in the Pacific Northwest. A long-standing voice for Seattle’s Black community, The Facts has been a trusted source of news for over six decades. With a focus on community-driven journalism, it highlights stories that matter most to Black residents, from local politics and social justice issues to cultural celebrations and historical milestones.

TILOBEN PUBLISHINg COMPANY, INC. (The Seattle Medium)

CEO & Owner: Chris H. Bennett Location: 2600 S Jackson St, Seattle, WA 98144
Website: seattlemedium.com

The flagship publication of Tiloben Publishing Company, Inc., The Seattle Medium stands as the largest African American-owned and operated communications company in the Pacific Northwest. With its focus on local news affecting Black and minority communities, The Seattle Medium ensures a continuous spotlight on stories often overlooked by mainstream outlets, uplifting voices that need to be heard.

Additional Resources for Supporting Black-Owned Businesses

Seattle Green Book – A free, comprehensive directory for Black-owned and co-owned businesses, and organizations serving the Black community in the Puget Sound area. Perfect for finding new places to eat, shop, or explore.
Buy Black Gift Cards – Intentionalist offers Buy Black Gift Cards redeemable at 130+ Black-owned businesses in the Puget Sound region. By gifting (or treating yourself!), you directly empower Black entrepreneurs and keep dollars circulating within local communities.

Make Your Support Count—Beyond February

The 2025 theme, “African Americans and Labor,” reminds us that the history of Black workers is complex, rich, and ongoing. Celebrating Black History Month means investing in Black businesses and championing racial and economic equity far beyond this season. Here’s how you can make a lasting impact:

Shop & Dine – Spend your dollars at these amazing businesses.
Spread the Word – Share your positive experiences on social media, tag the businesses, and recommend them to friends.
Leave Reviews – Positive reviews help local businesses stand out and grow.
Engage & Connect – Follow these businesses, like their posts, subscribe to receive their content, and support their events.

Know a Black-owned business we should add? Let us know—we’ll keep updating this list all month, shining a spotlight on more stories of excellence and resilience. By celebrating Black labor—past and present, we honor the contributions of African Americans to our social, economic, and cultural development and continue the pursuit of racial and economic justice.

At REST, we know that strong communities create and expand pathways to freedom, safety, and hope. Supporting Black-owned businesses is one way to invest in economic empowerment and a more just future for all.

If you found this list helpful, please share it—together, we can uplift Black entrepreneurs and continue building on this legacy every day.

Celebrating Black-Owned Businesses: A Curated List from Our Staff & Community