Black-owned businesses to support in Vancouver

As protestors filled the streets of cities across the world, the COVID-19 pandemic is still affecting many small businesses — particularly restaurants and retailers, who are struggling to stay afloat. 

For Black business owners, the economic crisis brought on by the global pandemic is more overwhelming, as historically, they face greater obstacles when it comes to accessing credit, gaining investments, and the ability to even open a business from the start.

An easy way you can help make a positive impact is to buy from Black-owned businesses, as many of them around the world have been forced to lay-off their employees, reduce their hours of operations, or shut down completely. 

Here is a list of Black businesses to support in Vancouver, British Columbia (and surrounding areas). 

Calabash Bistro

Caribbean restaurant, Calabash Bistro, is offering a condensed & cheaper menu to make their plates more affordable for their customers during COVID-19. They offer delicious items, from their house marinated jerk chicken, to wings and coconut dumplings. 

• Instagram: @calabashbistro
• Address: 428 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC

Mumgry

Nut-butter brand, Mumgry, was founded on one goal: “prioritizing the dietary needs of Mums throughout every stage of motherhood”. All of their products are plant-based, low sugar, and high in protein, calcium, & iron.  They’re currently offering free delivery in Vancouver & Burnaby to everyone who purchases three or more jars through their website. 

Taps & Tacos is located in Port Moody and is currently open for takeout, catering, and even offers a food truck for private events. From classics like chips & guac and pulled pork burritos, to fusion spins like the Korean pork taco, this restaurant has something for every palette. 

Batiqua is a fair trade social enterprise with the mission to empower marginalized artisans into sustainable employment opportunities. They offer beautiful products for your home, such as pillows and wall hangings, that are ethically sourced. Their company also stands by eco-friendly practices and strives to improve the lives of those in artisan communities. 

• Instagram: @batiqua

Juke Fried Chicken

Juke Fried Chicken is located in Chinatown, and currently open for takeout and delivery. They offer a wide range of grub, from fried chicken and ribs to delicious snacks & sides — like their fried pickles, cornbread, and dirty fries. 

• Instagram: @jukefriedchicken

Studio Natoyaista

Studio Natoyaista is a Vancouver-based artist that creates prints and postcards featuring black women, alongside stunning vintage items for your home. The vintage items are hand-picked by founder & artist Natoya Ellis herself! Limited releases of her art and photography are available for purchase as well. 

• Instagram: @studionatoyaista

For a full list of local Black-owned restaurants in Vancouver that you can support, local foodie group @foodvancouver kindly put together a master list here. For any edits, additions, or concerns, they encourage others to reach out via DM.