Doc Participates in the 2018 Baltimore Black Restaurant Challenge

My way of celebrating Black History Month this February 2018 was through showing my support for those who are creating waves in our city currently as entrepreneurs. I showed my support for local black-owned restaurants by participating in the Baltimore Black Restaurant Challenge.

The Baltimore Black Restaurant Challenge was created and hosted by Chef Casey Jenkins in 2014 after a wave of challenges arose on social media, one in particular which drew direct inspiration was the infamous 2014 ALS Water Bucket Challenge. The Black Restaurant Challenge encourages local foodies when choosing to dine out in the month of February, they should visit at least 2 black own restaurants in Baltimore.

There are a number of participating black restaurants in Baltimore that offer specials during the challenge. People who are eager to try out delicacies from those restaurants can find a list of who’s participating by visiting at the Black Restaurant Challenge official website or any of their social media channels. But for me, I just thought of a few names of restaurants I often hear about and strolled right through their front doors.

The two restaurants I chose was Teavolve and American Fusion Flight Baltimore.

I went with my best friend and boyfriend to each spot and ordered popular dishes.

At Teavolve, I had their signature Carolina Shrimp and Grits with a side of roasted potatoes. The food was so good. I failed to get a picture before my meal was half devoured.

The atmosphere of Teavolve was giving me “millennial young black professional” vibes. Everyone present in the restaurant that afternoon felt like they were someone of great importance. I even thought to myself maybe I should talk with my volume a little low. I didn’t want to feel the “ratchetness” of my conversation in the air. Especially since it was also a special guest in the building that afternoon. State Attorney Marilyn Mosby often dines at Teavolve, and she chose the day that my best friend and I was there to eat, too. I still didn’t filter my mouth. Real is real.

Teavolve is the perfect place for young professional to have small business meetings and small intimate events.

Check out some of what’s listed on their drink menu.

My second choice to dine at was Flight American Fusion, also known as Flight Baltimore, with my boyfriend for Valentine’s day. It was my treat to him to celebrate the holiday with one of his favorite foods…fish! There I ordered Salmon Quesadillas for my appetizer and a Vegan Veggie Mojo as an entre.

Flight Baltimore’s atmosphere was laxed. There was only one other couple there that afternoon. I could tell business was slow because of the time. But it was the best afternoon for me because it made my visit a lot more romantic that way. I enjoyed viewing the artwork posted on the walls by local artists while I appreciating good conversations with my man. I’d definitely go on another date there.

Flight Baltimore is a great restaurant for people who aren’t tied to the idea of impressing others. It’s a small quaint neighborhood restaurant. They have the option to order your food as carryout so it gives a feeling that you don’t have the obligation to dine in. Food is affordable for a quick bite, too.

Though I did the bare minimum to complete this challenge by only attending 2 restaurants, next year I hope to visit more because I hope to have more money to cash out. Ya feel me?!

What are some black-owned restaurants you frequently visit in Baltimore? Leave your comments below.

Did you hear about my experience that the American Art Craft Show? Read Doc Attend the 2018 American Art Craft Show at the Baltimore Convention Center on Doc’s Castle Media.