Celebrate Black Love in the Queen City
In our new series, "Charlotte Love Notes," we're sharing love stories from the Black community and highlighting the amazing Black-owned businesses and experiences that contribute to the soul of our city. We hope their love inspires you to plan a visit and show your love to a community that helps make Charlotte such a vibrant, creative and welcoming city.
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Charlotte Love Notes - Greg & Subrina Collier
Sharing their love and award-winning food with all.
Greg & Subrina's Love Notes
Original Chicken n' Ribs
A family-owned and -operated restaurant in Charlotte's historic Washington Heights neighborhood, Original Chicken and Ribs has been selling mouth-watering sandwiches and platters "with an urban flare" since 1952. Famous for its classic Fat Boy Burger, make sure you also get the fried chicken and beef ribs while you're there.
The Brown Sugar Collab
Located in South End, The Brown Sugar Collab offers a curated shopping experience featuring unique and natural products handcrafted by over 20 BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People Of Color) women suppliers. From luxury candles to quality skin care products, this small business focuses on a range of ethical and sustainable alternatives to what's sold in traditional retail stores and is committed to supporting women from underrepresented communities.
What the Fries
Launched by former Johnson & Wales classmates turned best friends, this beloved food truck currently operates out of The City Kitch in Wesley Heights and continues to serve the one-of-a-kind flavors that made them famous. "These aren't just loaded fries. We are pushing the boundaries of what you can do with fries," boasts chef/co-owner Greg Williams. While the Shrimp Hibachi Fries are a must, save room for the Smash Burger on a bone marrow-buttered potato roll.
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Charlotte Love Notes - Dennis Reed & Ohavia Phillips
Two big personalities making big impressions.
Dennis & Ohavia's Love Notes
Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture
Known to locals as "The Gantt," this extraordinary museum preserves and celebrates the contributions of Africans and African Americans through exceptional exhibitions of culture, history and enlightenment. With a mix of free and ticketed experiences, visitors can take in works from hundreds of master and contemporary artists.
Leah & Louise
From James Beard nominations to shoutouts from the New York Times, this self-described "modern juke joint" from the culinary minds of Greg and Subrina Collier has been reinterpreting classic Southern dishes to national acclaim. As Ohavia sums it up, "Drinks, food, everything is so unique - and it celebrates Black culture." Can't-miss bites include Leah's Cabbage and Mud Island which is blackened catfish paired with smoked catfish stew and rice grits.
Dupp & Swat
Founded by brother and sister, Dion and Davita Galloway, this vibrant shop is proud of its #HomeGrownRetail and sells only brands and designers who call Charlotte home. The space serves as not only a point of purchase but also a hub for artists to create, providing access to resources and social growth opportunities for Black innovators and makers.