Inclusion Dining And Shopping

Owning a restaurant right now is tough.It's even more difficult if you're a minority, whether by race or religious beliefs and trying to hold on to your dream. It's a little better when you have a product to sell, but still hard. What can we do? Support.

It's amazing and disgusting that diners  still want to eat in fancy restaurants in upscale neighborhoods. Sometimes the food isn't even that great.It's just the in spot to be seen or there's a new way that they present a classic dish. The best foods and probably the most exciting come from those in the fringe neighborhoods. I've discovered this with Paterson, New Jersey. There are literally dozens of eateries owned by minorities. They may not be in the fanciest of neighborhoods or attract local A listers but they do offer a variety of good food. These are more family owned places offering recipes that sometimes go back generations. These are worth visiting, especially with the indoor dining restrictions being lifted, here in New Jersey. Check out the big cities in your area and start looking at Yelp and Google Restaurant guides for these restaurants in your area. If there's no outdoor seating, there's sure to be pick up. Call them for lunch or dinner and then make sure to leave a review with pictures on Yelp or the restaurant's website.

Minority food businesses have also suffered during this time.In some ways they have it easier than restaurants and cafes because a store can buy in bulk from them. Yet, it can be difficult trying to get your name out there. There is also the problem of not having enough funds and banks are often reluctant to help African-American entrepreneurs. Again if we can support them and buy  their products, that's a very small step in solidarity.  African-Americans own a huge swath of food and alcohol businesses. They bring with them tradition and innovation. There's Essie Bartel's spice company, inspired by her Ghanian mother's kitchen spices. These are artesenal with influences mostly from Africa and the Caribbean but also from around the world. Olive oil enthusiasts may appreciate Skyler and her Calabrian husband Giuseppe's blends of different olives from their company EXAU. One company that's on the radar these day is Trade Street Jam Company from Brooklyn. The flavors are smoked yellow peach and plum and rose made by creator Ashley Rouse. African Americans are also getting into the wine business. Look for Love Cork Screw which features vegan vintages. It was created by Chrishon Lampley and the company has all sorts of whites and reds.

The best way towards solidarity is supporting each other.We can be inclusive by visiting restaurants and buying from minority businesses. It's a great way of expanding our mindsets and palates.