How EatOkra and Black Foodie Finder Are Transforming Black-Owned Restaurants

Black-owned restaurants have historically faced challenges in visibility, marketing, and reaching a broader customer base. However, two innovative platforms—EatOkra and Black Foodie Finder—are changing the landscape by leveraging technology, social media, and community events. These platforms are not just supporting restaurants but fostering a movement that celebrates and elevates Black culinary culture.

EatOkra and Black Foodie Finder provide more than just directories of Black-owned eateries. They offer essential business tools, digital exposure, and immersive culinary events that help restaurateurs thrive. EatOkra, co-founded by Anthony Edwards Jr. and Janique Edwards, serves as a discovery platform that connects users to Black-owned restaurants, caterers, and food trucks. With a growing network of over 20,000 businesses, the app provides basic free listings and premium options for greater visibility. EatOkra also supports Black-owned food brands through an integrated marketplace.

Black Foodie Finder, founded by Brax Rich, originated as a widely followed social media page that spotlighted Black-owned eateries. Over time, it evolved into an app that now boasts 75,000 active users and a directory of 15,000 businesses. With a strong Instagram presence of 1.3 million followers, Black Foodie Finder has amplified the reach of countless restaurants through digital engagement and vibrant real-world gatherings.

Both platforms recognize that community engagement extends beyond digital connections. EatOkra’s Culinary Creatives Conference, held in October 2024 in New York City, brought together 500 attendees, including chefs, restaurant owners, and industry experts. The event featured discussions on business growth and marketing strategies, with leading culinary figures like Ken Polk of Batter & Berries participating.

EatOkra’s partnerships with major companies such as Apple Maps, Pepsi Dig In, and ezCater further bolster its commitment to promoting Black-owned food businesses. These collaborations integrate Black restaurants into high-traffic discovery platforms, increasing their exposure.

Black Foodie Finder has taken an equally dynamic approach to real-world engagement. The BFF Cookout, hosted on September 1, 2024, in Memphis, Tennessee, attracted nearly 3,000 attendees. Held at Tom Lee Park, the event featured live performances and an impressive lineup of Black-owned food vendors. Kingsford, a brand under Clorox, was a key sponsor, highlighting the festival’s growing prominence as it plans to expand in 2025.

Industry leaders acknowledge the impact of these platforms on Black culinary businesses. Jeremy Joyce, founder of Black People Eats, commended EatOkra for providing marketing support to Black-owned restaurants, many of which lack the resources for effective promotion. Restaurant consultant Clark Wolf also pointed to the rising representation of Black cuisine in mainstream media, referencing cultural milestones such as Netflix’s documentary *High on the Hog* and chef Kwame Onwuachi’s success.

Despite these positive developments, Black-owned restaurants face ongoing economic challenges. Rising food costs and shifting consumer spending habits are concerns, and political factors, including policies under Donald Trump’s administration, have raised questions about small business support and labor availability.

Nevertheless, EatOkra and Black Foodie Finder remain committed to overcoming these challenges by expanding their outreach efforts. Future plans include larger-scale events, stronger business mentorship programs, and new media ventures such as short-form video content and potential television collaborations.

Apps like EatOkra and Black Foodie Finder are proving to be more than just digital tools—they serve as vital resources that sustain Black-owned restaurants and strengthen culinary entrepreneurship. By combining technology with community-driven initiatives, these platforms are ensuring that Black food businesses not only survive but thrive in an increasingly competitive industry.

As the movement continues to gain momentum, innovators like Anthony Edwards Jr., Janique Edwards, and Brax Rich are paving the way for a more inclusive and celebrated Black culinary landscape. Their work reflects the growing appreciation for Black food culture and the determination to create lasting opportunities for Black chefs, restaurant owners, and food enthusiasts.