Business — Blog — Candace D.O. Green

It’s time for another #BlackOutTuesday, where it’s our duty to only shop with black business and brands. (Imagine if we did this everyday anyway). Before I go ahead and give some more of my favorites, I would just like to address two of the most common reasons I hear about why we don’t support our own.

Bad customer service - I hate this excuse. I’m sure you’ve had bad customer service at Macy’s, Whole Foods, Sprouts, or wherever else you shop. Everyone has bad days.
High prices - Sure, some things may be a little higher. Guess what else is high? That Kate Spade bag you’ve been eyeing for months. Cut it out.

Basically, whatever excuse you have, you can find the same issues in white owned establishments. I’m not trying to bully anyone into supporting black business, i’m just pointing out that the reasons we here so much for the lack of support are sort of…bogus.

Anyway, let’s get to what you really came for; the list. These are in no particular order of preference. (Ehh ok, so I lied. I’m only going to tackle food today. Birmingham has some fantastic black owned food spots, and I love to eat.)

Encore Rouge Food Truck : Move over Popeyes! (Ok, so I actually haven’t tried the chicken sandwich 😅…) They have the BEST fried chicken sandwich I have ever tasted. If you don’t believe me, go see them and the line speaks for itself. I haven’t seen one dish that I didn’t want to drool over. Go check them out on your lunch break or for dinner, you won’t be disappointed.
Gabriella’s Bistro: They don’t have an Instagram, but I learned about this place through word of mouth, as I’m sure most others have. It’s located in the 4th Ave District, and it’s some of the best soul food I’ve put in my mouth. There is limited seating inside, but you can also sit outside. You may want to have a designated driver, you’ll definitely be taking that after church nap after eating this. Oh, and it’s only open on Sundays.
K & J’s Elegant Pastries : I’ve only been once, but that sweet potato cheesecake was good enough to warrant another drive to alabaster. If you don’t feel like driving that far, you can usually find them right beside the Encore Rouge Truck. Be sure to check their Instagram just to be sure. Make sure to bring a dose of insulin with you though…have you seen their shakes?!
Edolyn’s Pies : Have you ever had a brownie pie? Well, after trying one from this sweet spot (you get it? Sweet…spot) you’ll be craving one all the time. Located in the Pizitz Food Hall, this cute shop carries mini pies and whole pies. The sweet potato pie is fantastic, but again, that brownie pie.
Granny’s FIsh n Grits : Do I even need to say anything? If you haven’t tried it, try it today. Try it now. No, really. Go try it now. The portion sizes are big enough for two people to share. It’s amazing.
Wings Around the Clock: I may be biased because I know the owner, but these are fantastic. I judge wing spots on the quality of their ranch dressing, and let me tell you, this is the best ranch I’ve ever had. There may be a little bit of a wait, but that’s because your food is being fried up fresh. It’s worth it. It’s located right past the Shelby building on University Blvd. Go and tell them I sent you.
Ashley’s Famous Cookies: Listen. That lemon crack cookie?! Chile. If you aren’t located in Birmingham, she ships nationwide!
Jake’s Soul Food Cafe: Jerk Chicken, Jerk Shrimp, and a sweet potato casserole that’ll make you slap somebody are just some of the fantastic things on the menu. Just don’t make the same mistake I did and go on a Monday, because they aren’t open.
The Veggie: This vegan spot is located in Huntsville and shes famous for her meal prep, but I’m here to tell you about the cinnamon rolls. (Hold on while I take a praise break). They are just that good. She ships nationwide. I’m not vegan, but i’ll gladly eat these any day of the week. My favorite combo is the sweet potato pecan. (Wipe the drool from your mouth, I see you). 😂

This is just a tip of the iceberg of the great black-owned food spots available in Birmingham. Let’s support our own. In the end, nobody should have our back like we do.

Love always,

CDOG