As the calendar turns to a fresh year, anticipation has started building regarding a culinary celebration that transcends any ordinary gastronomic experience. Long Beach Black Restaurant Week has entered its third year and is already gearing up to captivate food enthusiasts from January 21 to 28, 2024. The event promises a week-long journey through different flavors that will reflect the essence of African, African American, and Caribbean cuisine in and around Long Beach.
Long Beach Black Restaurant Week boasts an impressive lineup of 19 local establishments, ranging from food trucks to pop-ups. This diversity will likely offer a delightful divergence to those seeking varied and delectable dining options. While the initial plan included 20 businesses, the revised count has enriched the excitement with an array of culinary adventures for the discerning palates of foodies across the city.
According to reports, a quartet of culinary maestros will come together to kick off this indulgent week. The purpose of this event is not just to tantalize taste buds but to extend a heartfelt gesture to the community. On January 16, Chefs Bradley, Quianna Bradley, Ronnie Woods, and Nika Shoemaker-Machado met at the Long Beach Rescue Mission Samaritan House to curate a memorable lunch for those experiencing homelessness.
Qiana Mafnas is the driving force behind the event and the creative mind behind Axiom Catering. Sharing the motivation behind this prelude, Mafnas stated, “We realize that there are many among us who won’t get the chance to dine out during Long Beach Black Restaurant Week.” She further added, “So serving a gourmet meal to our neighbors struggling with homelessness is our way of bringing Black Restaurant Week to them and including everyone in the event.”
Emphasizing the close-knit nature of Long Beach and the chefs’ commitment to giving back, Chef Woods echoed this sentiment, “Despite its size, Long Beach is a tightly knit community where diversity and civic pride is our strength.” Woods added, “My fellow chefs and I are excited to kick off Long Beach Restaurant Black Restaurant Week by treating those most vulnerable in our city to an unforgettable meal.”
As this compassionate act has resonated with the community, the broader Long Beach Black Restaurant Week is on its way, promising an array of vibrant dining choices. From the soulful offerings of Hart N Soul Vegan Cafe to the inventive creations of Devi’s Donuts and Sweets, the participating establishments invite diners to savor the unique and diverse flavors that define the city’s Black food scene.
Unfortunately, a recent update has revealed that Stacked Pasta will not be a participant in this year’s festivities. Despite this change, the organizers encourage culinary enthusiasts to explore all the other culinary treasures in the area during the week-long celebration.
Long Beach Black Restaurant Week is more than just a culinary journey or cuisine festival. It is the ultimate gathering of individuals from diverse backgrounds to savor the vibrant flavors of the city’s Black food scene. To stay updated on the festivities, you can visit the official site of Long Beach Black Restaurant Week for the latest happenings, reservations, and an opportunity to be a part of a culinary experience beyond the ordinary.
