Get ready, food enthusiasts! Wilmington’s diverse culinary culture is taking center stage with the inaugural Black Restaurant Week (BRW), brought to you by Wilmington City Council in partnership with the Office of Economic Development. It's a celebration of flavor, culture, and community, showcasing the extraordinary contributions of Black-owned restaurants that add an enriching layer to the city's tapestry.
Wilmington's BRW is more than just a week of mouthwatering dishes; it's a celebration of diversity and inclusion. The city's first BRW will feature a wide range of Black-owned food service providers, including take-out joints, food vendors, casual dining spots, food trucks, and fine dining establishments. This week is all about highlighting the rich and varied culinary culture rooted in the Black community, and it's a chance to savor it while supporting local businesses.
Mark your calendars as Wilmington's BRW is strategically aligned with Wilmington Historically Black College and Universities (HBCU) Week, scheduled from September 17 through September 24. During this vibrant week, thousands of local and regional residents will participate in various events. This synergy offers an excellent opportunity for food service businesses to gain widespread exposure and recognition within our community.
Here's your exclusive invitation to be a part of this delectable experience!
Special Events Throughout the Week
BRW Food Truck Event at Wilmington HBCU Week R&B Concert
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
7 p.m.
The Queen
Take in a night of food, music, and culture in celebration of HBCU Week. Get your tickets for the HBCU Week R & B Concert and feast on a lineup of delicious food trucks serving up all your favorite delectable dishes.
Note: Food trucks are serving patrons of the concert only.
BRW Food Truck Event at Wilmington HBCU Week Conversation on Social Justice with Ben Crump
Thursday, September 21, 2023
6 p.m.
Wilmington Public Library
Fill your belly at the food truck event on 10th Street, then head inside the library for a thought-provoking conversation on social justice with Ben Crump and Wilmington HBCU Week founder Ashley Cooper. Ben Crump is one of the most prominent voices in the fight for racial justice and has represented the families of several high-profile victims of police brutality, including George Floyd and Breonna Taylor.
BRW Food Truck Event at Wilmington HBCU Week Block Party
Saturday, September 23, 2023
Noon to 5 p.m.
10th & Orange Streets
Near DECO Wilmington
There is nothing better than food trucks and a block party! A great opportunity to celebrate Wilmington’s HBCU community and support Black-owned restaurants. Look for the BRW logo!
Wilmington’s Black Restaurant Week kicks off with “A Taste of Wilmington.”
Saturday, September 16, 2023
1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The Baby Grand
Free & Open to the Public
Walk into the lobby of The Baby Grand and be greeted by seven Black-owned restauranteurs with a diverse offering of cuisine for sale. Taste buds and your intellect will be stimulated with “Foodways & Folklore: A Community Conversation,” led by nationally acclaimed storyteller and folklorist Queen Nur, along with a panelist of Black Culinary Artists discussing how cuisine and culture are intricately intertwined.
This Black Restaurant Week pre-event will be held in conjunction with Soul of the City, presented by Christina Cultural Arts Center and co-hosted by The Grand Opera House. “Soul of the City” is the ultimate downtown “block party.” Market Street will be closed between 7th and 9th, and the streets will be filled with family fun activities. This year’s “Soul of the City” festival aims to celebrate the uniqueness of Wilmington’s arts organizations and communities while highlighting the monumental 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop.
Wilmington Black Restaurant Week
September 17 – 24, 2023
A few participating restaurants...
Delectablez
- 111 W. 10th St.
Delectablez offers plant-based alternatives to foods that you love. Whether you're Vegan, or trying to eat clean, we have something for you!
Milk & Honey Cafe & Gallery
- 807 N Union St.
Milk & Honey is a premiere community Cafe and Gallery in the historic West End Neighborhood in Wilmington. We serve coffee, tea, smoothies, and breakfast/lunch menu.
For the full list of restaurants participating in this special week learn more here.
https://www.wilmingtonde.gov/government/city-offices/economic-development/black-restaurant-week
From mouthwatering dishes to community support, BRW has something for everyone. It's not just a culinary adventure; it's a celebration of culture and unity. Join Greater Wilmington in making this inaugural event a flavorful success.