Show These Community Hotspots Some Love!
With great passion comes great things, and we’re constantly in search of the best that San Diego has to offer. Born from a specific passion in their unique area, these Black-owned businesses in San Diego are working to enrich their communities all over the city—whether it’s via a relaxing wholesome meal, a space for spiritual experiences or a good old fashioned cone of ice cream. If you’ve been searching for ways to support the BIPOC community in San Diego, look no further—and stay tuned, because we have a feeling there are only more great things to come.
Chula Vista Brewery
Standing as the only Black/Hispanic-owned brewery in San Diego, Chula Vista Brewery was opened by home brewer Timothy J. Parker and his wife Dali as a way to extend the city’s craft brewery scene to Chula Vista. With Parker having served in the US Navy, this brewery is a triple threat: it’s a veteran-owned and women-led local business as well. Stop into this award-winning brewery for a cold glass of your favorite blonde or double IPA at either the Chula Vista or Eastlake location.
Location: Chula Vista
Louisiana Purchase
Stop in for a dose of Southern comfort at Louisiana Purchase, co-owned by head chef Quinnton Austin who relocated to San Diego straight from New Orleans. With him he has brought extensive knowledge of Southern cuisine and restaurant excellence, carrying the vibes of the true South to Southern California! With a specific flair for mixing sweet and savory flavors, his passion emanates through each dish and accompanying cocktail, from the Gator Bites and Alligator Andouille Cheesecake to the classic NOLA Hurricane libation.
Location: North Park
One Stop Spiritual Shoppe
Let your spiritual side shine and shop local at Escondido’s One Stop Spiritual Shoppe, owned by psychic medium Megan Dillard, who has over 17 years of experience practicing tarot and witchcraft. Support a Black-owned San Diego business while finding all of your spiritual needs! Whether you’re looking for sound bath meditations, spellwork, reiki healing, tarot readings or group classes, it’s all in one place. Even if you just need to pop in and restock on your favorite crystals, books, jewelry or herbs, it’s all in one place—and it’s open late, (9 p.m.) perfect for the working witch.
Location: Escondido
Maya’s Cookies
Did you know that San Diego is home to America’s number one Black-owned vegan gourmet cookie company? You heard that right—it’s none other than Maya’s cookies. Vegan baked goods aren’t always easy to perfect, but Maya Madsden has fine-tuned her blend of ingredients to create high-quality classic flavors and all-new creative bites like the inventive chocolate chip s’mores and marble fudge. Treat yourself and stop in to a San Diego location or order a large box of your favorites online—because no other catering can top these cookies.
Location: Grantville and San Marcos
SIP Wine & Beer
Take a seat, take a sip, take a breath. SIP Wine & Beer was created by Cassandra Schaeg as a space to sip, connect and share after a long day. In addition to her restaurant venture, Schaeg created the PBS series “Fresh Glass,” where she highlights other BIPOC food and beverage entrepreneurs. Experience what her passion has brought to the community at SIP any evening Thursday through Saturday, or check out their Instagram to stay up-to-date with deals and events like vinyl sessions and free pairings with purchase!
Location: Escondido
Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream
Send your taste buds on a sweet vacation with Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream. This Black-owned business in North Park offers high-quality, award-winning ice cream flavors in a colorful and eclectic setting. Hammond’s was bought by AJ Williams in 2019, who immediately faced the obstacles of the pandemic—but the ice cream never stopped coming. Sample four flavors with an ice cream flight or try a cone of Kitty Kitty Bang Bang—we could reveal the ingredients, but that would only spoil the fun.
Location: North Park
Broady’s House of Flavors
I scream, you scream—but it all stops when we’re handed some ice cream. Crash into creamy deliciousness at Broady’s House of Flavors, a Black-owned ice cream shop in Chula Vista with the simple mission of serving perfected ice cream. Delivered straight from Wisconsin, this spot offers an indulgent experience unlike you’ve had before. Assure the staff you aren’t flirting with them when you order the refreshing Mint-2-Be, or get serious with the smooth, salted caramel This $&#@ Just Got Serious.
Location: Chula Vista
The Mental Bar
Self-care just got even better! Nourish your body and mind at The Mental Bar, located in Encanto’s Black Arts and Culture District. Owners Tommy and Daneyel Walker started their coffee shop with the mission of providing the community with wholesome, feel-good eats and drinks in a space that stimulates connection and creativity—with delicious dishes to boot. Stop into this Black-owned cafe any time you’re in need of a little pick-me-up, or stock up your own space with their selection of natural tea to make at home.
Location: Encanto
Bliss Tea & Treats
Sip your tea and stay a while at Bliss Tea & Treats, a Black-owned tea room in Northern San Diego’s Oceanside. Inspired by the simple joy a cup of tea brings in cultures around the world, Rushell Gordon’s simple love of tea and travel inspired her to open her very own shop and bring connection to her own community. Bliss Tea & Treats serves classic teas, sandwiches and treats in a warm and relaxed ambiance. Reserve your space ASAP and experience tea the way it’s intended to be.
Location: Oceanside
Common Ground Theatre
As the name might suggest, Common Ground Theatre was created with the intention of becoming a common ground for all. It’s a theater space for people of all ages, genders, races and backgrounds to relax and connect, whether you’re seated in the audience or are a performer on stage. New shows happen seasonally throughout the year—get tickets for “STEW,” which will run from Mar. 29 to Apr. 21, 2024—and stay tuned for upcoming performances that give a voice to Black playwrights!
Location: Mountain View
Jaclyn is a sunshine chasing San Diego native with an extensive writing background. When she isn’t word-smithing, you can find her playing beach volleyball, skating the boardwalk, or on a rooftop enjoying a drink in the sunshine with her pals.
