New Orleans has a long and rich African American history dating back to the early 1700’s.
Fast forward to today and African Americans continue to represent the majority of the population in NOLA.
And although Black people do make up for 60% percent of New Orleans population.
Sadly they only own 24% of the cities businesses.
There are many reasons for this very low percentage one reason being Gentrification.
For that reason I wanted to highlight three incredible Black Owned businesses.
I had the pleasure of visited on my recent trip to New Orleans.
“In 2016, New Orleans Artist Brandan BMike Odums established Studio BE, a 36,000- square foot gallery and final part of the “BE Trilogy”
“Through intentional programming, workshops, exhibitions, and resource allocation, StudioBE’s mission is rooted in the belief that the blueprint for a better tomorrow lives in the collective imagination.”
“Our work serves to promote the advancement of artists and engage in society’s most urgent questions.”
My one recommendation is to book the guided tour.
Unfortunately I did not and I definitely felt like I missed out on hearing about the history and back stories on these amazing exhibits.
“Inspired by grandmother’s cooking, Neyow’s authentic creole dishes represent all things New Orleans in the Mid-City neighborhood.”
Neyow’s prides itself on only serving the freshest local ingredients.
Especially fresh seafood like their popular Char-Grilled Oysters.
Char Grilled Oysters
MP
The food at Neyow’s is authentic and absolutely delicious!
Undoubtedly one of the best meals I had while in Nola.
Last but not least visiting Loretta Pralines is an absolute must!
3) Loretta’s Authentic Pralines
“Loretta was the first African American woman to successfully own and operate her own praline company in New Orleans.”
Loretta’s has two locations I visited the location on the historic N Rampart.
With menu items like pralines, cookies and their uber popular Crab Beignet this place is a food lovers paradise.
Sadly the owner Loretta Harrison passed away February 16,2002 after a battle with cancer.
However her legacy and the culture that she created lives on in New Orleans.
As the generations continue to change the praline goodness stays the same.
– Loretta S. Harrison