 It’s important to see yourselves represented even as you travel. As 2020’s Black History Month comes to a close, I would like to highlight a few black-owned businesses you should visit while traveling the US. In 1980 the Brown family purchased an abandoned ranch on the eastern hills of Napa Valley. The family’s three children decided to make wine from the fruits of their parents’ labor in 1995, so to speak. Brown Estates in Napa Valley has a tasting room in Downtown Napa and the Winery is located in St. Helena, CA. At the Downtown Napa location, guests can enjoy flights, Prixe Fixe menu or wine and small plates. Reservations are highly encouraged over the weekends. Since the 1990s Akwaaba Bed & Breakfast Inns has offered an upscale lodging experience. It is owned by husband and wife duo, Glenn Pogue and Monique Greenwood. Akwaaba Bed & Breakfast Inns has multiple locations including Brooklyn, NY, Washington, DC, Philadelphia, PA, Cape May, NJ and The Poconos, PA. Each location has its own vibe and feel. So you’ll have multiple places to visit in the USA. There are several black owned breweries around the country for you to visit. If you are in Minneapolis, MN, ONE Fermentary & Taproom is a trendy brewery. If you are in the ATL, Khonso Brewing Company offers an eclectic beer recipe that has bold flavors, aromas and a distinct vibe. If you are in Harlem or the NYC area, Harlem Brewing Company is a black woman owned brewery with deep African roots. Those are just a few. Share your favorite black owned business in the comments.
0 Comments
The city of Kansas City is known as the Paris of the Midwest. I don’t know how accurate that is but I’ll allow it. Some may say it’s in the middle of nowhere with beautiful greenery surrounding it, gives me comfort. Kansas City has amazing food, cool art, classy bars and great sporting teams. If you visit Kansas City or if you’ve lived here all your life, there’s always something interesting to do. Here are some of my favorite Kansas City spots.  The PlazaThe Country Club Plaza or The Plaza as it affectionately known, is my favorite spot in Kansas City. With 15 blocks of shops, chain and local restaurants, coupled with European and Spanish architecture that you might take for granted, it is the place to be in Kansas City. (I’ll go more in-depth with my favorite restaurants on the Plaza.) My favorite thing to do on the Plaza is take an evening stroll and head to the JC Nicholas Fountain. If you are feeling truly fancy a gondola ride from Ambiance on the Water. The Plaza Food T. Loft - Multiple Locations The best way to describe this local spot is to imagine if Panera and Chipotle has a child. I think they would birth T. Loft. It is a health-minded fast casual restaurant. I love the meal bowls and salads. T. loft also has tasty juices. This is a great place to visit for a nice lunch. Rye Rye offers locally sourced ingredients with every plate. You gain a real KC feel when visiting this restaurant. The meal is filled with comfort and tradition. I love the Shrimp & Grits. I can’t forget the innovative cocktails. Ruby Jean's Juicery This isn't quite on the Plaza but I had to mention it. From fresh juices, smoothies and plenty of options to choose. I enjoy a juice or smoothie with a fresh salad at the Troost location. Made in KC Marketplace If you are looking for trendy Kansas City gear even the locals love to wear, this is a great catch all spot. Local food brands such as Kansas City Canning Company are also housed in this store. You can grab a drink or food from the up and coming restaurants housed in the Marketplace.  Brookside/Waldo/Ward Parkway AreaThese areas are within 5-10 minutes of each other. Each spot has its only vibe but I’ll group them together. Ward Parkway feels like an extension of the Plaza to me. There are a variety of chain restaurants and stores you know and love. The fountains on your way from the Plaza to Ward Parkway. Taking photos in front of the fountains around Kansas City is an instant date night or day out with the kids. Brookside is very local. Local bank, local grocery store, and local boutiques. I remember chatting with the owner of Skin KC about why she moved from the Plaza to Brookside. She wanted to be in a more local area. This is where the locals go! When I’m in Brookside, I love to walk through STUFF. The accessories are beautiful and there’s always something unique to purchase. To this day, I own a gorgeous gold pair of earrings. EB and Co. sells leather handbags and accessories. I’m also obsessed with the thoughtful elegance of the jewelry line. When I’m in the mood to decorate my home, I like to ooo and aah through Jorjy. It gives me good HGTV vibes. Waldo makes me want to ride a bike or dance. Probably because I’ve spent many weekends attending Pub Crawls in Waldo. I also enjoy thrift shopping at the Red Racks in Waldo. (I purchased pieces for my vacation photo shoot.) The Food Michael Forbes I believe this might be my favorite local restaurant. Michael Forbes is just fancy enough to feel indulgent, but affordable enough that a crowd can come too! I love the homemade chips to start. There are daily specials to keep things interesting. You’ll find this restaurant in Brookside. I crave ice cream more often than I’m comfortable admitting. Betty Rae's Betty Rae’s is my favorite ice cream shop. There’s a variety of different flavors, even vegan ones! There are multiple locations, but I’ll stick to the Waldo location. Drinks As I mentioned, there are great cocktails in Waldo. District Pour House & Kitchen and Louie’s Wine Dive offer great cocktails and happy hour deals. Good eats in Waldo include Taj Mahal Restaurant (Indian food) or Summit Grill (American). The CrossroadsThe Crossroads District is surrounded by art, culture and great food! Every first Friday, these district is on crowded with art-lovers and food lovers. There are open art galleries on First Fridays and sometimes complimentary snacks and wine! Some of my favorite galleries are Jones Gallery and Blue Gallery. The Food Lulu's Thai Noodles The food here is quite delicious and authentic. Lulu's Thai Noodles offers fresh ingredients and rich tradition. From curry to wok dishes, you really can't go wrong in this restaurant. The Jacobson Just next door is The Jacobson, which is an amazing local restaurant. The menu is contemporary and creativity. It's also a tasty spot for brunch. KC Wineworks When it's time for a glass of wine, KC Wineworks is my go-to. From the Crossroads Red to the Norton Reserve, (which are both reds), you really can't go wrong. You can sip on a glass or taste a few pours. There are cheese trays available and the occasional pairings with local business. If your ready to visit Kansas City, I don't blame you! But wait, where's the BBQ? Stay tuned! |
Morgane FThe girl who didn't get on plane until 18, but now just can't stop. Archives
October 2022
Categories |
RSS Feed
