Black History Month Recommendations: DRINK
Published on February 13, 2024
Throughout Black History Month, we’ll be sharing opportunities to support Black-owned businesses and organizations across the Queen City. However, instead of coming up with our own recommendations for where to EAT, DRINK, SHOP, and SUPPORT, we reached out to local Black influencers and asked for their recommendations.
Here are some Black-owned restaurants and food trucks where you can DRINK during (and after) Black History Month!
Davidson Wine Company
Pouring a glass of red wine at Davidson Wine Company. (via Davidson Wine Co.)
“Davidson Wine Co. is a Black-woman-owned winery that feels like a place to rest and savor. Owner Lindsey, a former attorney, said she fell in love with wine and the winemaking process after a trip to Italy. Davidson Wine Co. offers a selection of reds, whites, specialty, and sangria wines as well as seasonal bites that make the perfect date night, solo outing, or “just because” option.” - @cltblackowned on Davidson Wine Company at 121 Depot Street in Davidson
Evoke Coffee Company
Iced Chai Latte ordered by @ashaeatsworld (left) and @thadailyspecial’s go-to order (right) at Evoke.
“Stop for coffee and stay for connection. Shop owner Joe Keenan answered the call to curate a safe and authentic gathering place for community when he brought Evoke Coffee to life in Charlotte. This mobile espresso bar, which also serves coffee, tea, and other specialty beverages, has a reputation for building community. Whether it’s stimulating conversation you seek, a warm or refreshing beverage, or even just a good word and affirmation, Evoke Coffee is the standard.” - @ashaeatsworld on Evoke Coffee Company at 222 West Boulevard
“Joe is serving up more than coffee at Evoke. From my first visit there, it felt like family. I've met so many people through Evoke, and they have enriched my life in more ways than one. My go-to order is a Lavender Marshmallow Oatmilk Latte with Lavender Cold Foam.” - @thecharlitty on @evokecoffeeco
“Evoke Coffee is serving amazing coffee and teas with the owner Joe really taking his craft seriously. Not only does it curate great drinks, but he has curated a community environment that bodes for conservation and fellowship. Here everyone feels like family.” - @thadailyspecial on Evoke
The Jugo Bar Tasting Room
Some of the many juice varieties available at The Jugo Bar. (@msfoodieclt)
“This Black-owned juice bar offers a variety of infused juices that are handcrafted and refreshing. I had the opportunity of having a tasting room experience where I was able to sample a variety of their juices. The owner William Fulton was very knowledgeable and informative about the ingredients that go into producing the juices and how it improves your health, mood, and energy.” - @msfoodieclt on The Jugo Bar Tasting Room at 3205 North Davidson Street
Lorem Ipsum
@shiondafarrell enjoying a drink at Lorem Ipsum.
“Lorem Ipsum is a Black-owned listening bar and cocktail lounge located in the Plaza Midwood area. I love the concept of talking less and listening more. You can even bring your own vinyl to listen and play here at this unique cocktail lounge. Cocktails, wine, beer, and mocktails are served here. No food is served, but they allow you to have food delivered and you can purchase from elsewhere and bring it inside. This is definitely giving intimate date night vibes and is worth adding to your list!” - @shiondafarrell on Lorem Ipsum at 1101 Central Avenue
The Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary
Inside the unplugged experience of The Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary. (@lorriashly)
"I prefer tea over coffee, so when I stumbled across this tea bar I instantly fell in love. WiFi is not available. They encourage you to unplug, which is so needed. You can go alone or with a friend to catch up. They have two locations now and offer different events like live music and high tea.” - @lorriashly on The Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary at 2326 Arty Avenue
Sprinkle
One of Sprinkle’s decadent, creative milkshake options. (@missblackfoodie)
“Located in NoDa, Sprinkle is a stylish and upscale dessert and cocktail lounge. Specialty cocktails, milkshakes, coffee, teas, and small bites can all be found on the lounge’s menu. Must-try menu items are the irresistible milkshakes. M.H.I.M.I. features loads of Oreos, an Oreo cupcake, brownies, donut, whipped cream, and cotton candy. Strawberrylicious is a combination of vanilla ice cream, crushed graham crackers, strawberries, cheesecake, and cotton candy. I was sold by the lounge’s chill vibes while the taste and presentation of their signature desserts is explosive. The lounge is open daily until late.” - @missblackfoodie on Sprinkle at 3100 North Davidson Street
CBI Certified Vendor Spotlight: JavaBean, LLC
Try JavaBean coffee at a local event or farmers’ market. (javabeanllc.com)
The Charlotte Business INClusion (CBI) program seeks to enhance competition and participation of Minority, Women, and Small Business Enterprises (MWSBEs) in city contracting.
JavaBean, LLC sells and serves authentic Ethiopian Yirgacheffe. In addition to having beans available for purchase online, JavaBean often travels to farmers’ markets and other regional events. Most recently, they took their delicious coffee up to the RVA Home Show in Doswell, Virginia. So, next time you see them out in Charlotte, be sure to stop by and have a sample!
Whether you’re looking for an early morning pick-me-up or a late-night wind-down, this list has something for everyone. Please remember to visit all of these establishments responsibly.
Next time, we’re taking everyone in Charlotte shopping with our Black History Month Recommendations for SHOP.