Today we recognize Juneteenth. Our Nation’s second Independence Day, that celebrates the abolition of slavery. As we take a step back and think about the monumental impact this day in 1865 had on people of color, we must also look at Juneteenth today as yet another opportunity to reflect on our place in present history. To ensure that we continue to do our parts to ultimately eliminate the systemic racism and the social injustice that still exists for Black people currently.

Let us all remember Juneteenth as a massive milestone in history, but more importantly, as a reminder of the conversations that still need to happen and actions to take to achieve the goal of equality.

While there is a multitude of ways, you can be an ally for #BlackLivesMatter causes, one constant that serves as a positive impact is consumer support. So in observation of the Juneteenth Holiday, we encourage our residents to support a local Black-owned business today by becoming a customer. 

Living in the NoMa neighborhood puts you within walking distance of some popular black-owned establishment staples in the District! 

Check out our list below! 

Ben’s Chili Bowl

Address: 1001 H St NE

Serving as a DC staple restaurant for over 60 years, Ben’s Chili Bowl has been the go-to food location for celebrities, politicians, tourists, and DC residents alike. 

And what makes this establishment a DC treasure is its authenticity. The counter, booths, and stools are all original; the fresh homemade chili is still made with love, using the same secret recipe, and service and quality as guiding principles. 

Stop by Ben’s Chili Bowl for a real taste of DC. Whether it’s one of their famous chili bowls, a milkshake, or the many other delicious menu items.

Busboys & Poets: K Street

Address: 450 K St NW

Busboys and Poets is a community gathering place. First established in 2005, Busboys and Poets was founded by owner Andy Shallal, an artist, activist, and restaurateur. After opening the flagship location at 14th and V Streets, NW, the neighboring residents, and progressive community embraced Busboys, particularly activists opposed to the Iraq War. Busboys and Poets is now located in seven distinctive neighborhoods in the Washington Metropolitan area and is a cultural hub for artists, activists, writers, thinkers, and dreamers.

Busboys & Poets delicious menu options cover a wide selection of brunch, happy hour, lunch, dinner, and dessert options. Some of our favorites include the sweet potato pancakes, lamb sliders, and the key lime pie. Busboys & Poets offers vegan and vegetarian selections as well. 

This restaurant is open for pick-up and delivery options. Visit their website for more information. 

Turning Natural

Address: 1380 H St NE

Turning Natural is more than a juice bar, it’s a health movement! The mission of Turning Natural is to bring better choices to communities that are underserved; making healthy foods affordable, cool, and ultimately taste like magic! Community and integrity being two of our main core values, they pride ourselves on educating, reconnecting cultures, and providing juices made with love and precision. Their main interests are good vibes, better food, and excellent company!

Stop by today for a wide selection of fresh smoothies!

Half Smoke

Address: 651 Florida Ave NW

You haven’t eaten until you have tried a delicious half-smoke meal from the popular Half Smoke restaurant in the Shaw neighborhood. Few things actually live up to the hype of what is advertised. This restaurant’s food is one of those things. 

Half Smoke is open for pick-up and delivery options. Visit, halfsmoke.com for more information

Milk & Honey In Smith Commons

Address: 1245 H St NE

Milk & Honey In Smith Commons didn’t invent brunch, but they might have perfected it! Whether it’s a quick breakfast meeting with colleagues, brunch with friends and family, lunch alone, or a carry-out to dine at home or your office, Milk & Honey Cafe is something special! Their mouth-watering menu features some of the most addicting dishes including their award-winning shrimp and grits as well as the berry and cream fresh toast dish that will most certainly keep you coming back.  

This establishment is available for pick-up and delivery options. Visit milknhoneycafe.com for more information

Po’ Boy Jim

Address: 709 H St NE

Po Boy Jim is a family-owned restaurant that specializes Po’ Boys that are traditional and/or uniquely crafted. We aim to provide our patrons with high-quality food and beverages in a casual, rustic environment, so that food, drinks, and customer service are the highlight of the experience.

Try one of their classic Po’ Boy sandwiches, and you’ll immediately want to come back every week! 

Visit, poboyjim.com for more pick-up and delivery options.

DC Conscious & Cafe 

Address: 1413 H St NE

DC Conscious & Cafe is more than a place that serves food and drinks; it’s a community with a very simplistic and fundamental mission; the interaction and engagement of all residents and stakeholders to foster shared experiences that promote awareness, understanding, and appreciation of our differences, similarities, talents, and challenges. 

Dive into a cultural experience like never before when you chow down on their house favorites like the Yassa Burger, Apple Sage Love Boat, or one of their savory taco selections.

DC Conscious & Cafe is available for pick-up options. Visit their website for more information.