115 Black-Owned Ohio Businesses to Check Out

By Ohio.org Staff

Posted On: Feb 1, 2022

From sweet treats to delicious eats, check out these 115 Black-owned Ohio businesses: 

stack of gluten free cookies brownies red velvet twinkies white frosted ohio shaped cookie with heart shaped sprinkle in center bake me happy gluten free bakery columbus ohio

Central Ohio

Bake Me Happy — a gluten-free bakery in Merion Village, Bake Me Happy will fulfill your sweet tooth. Whether you’re craving a homemade pop-tart, cookies or donuts. You can also check out their spot inside the new North Market at Bridge Park in Dublin. 

Donna’s Delicious Dozen — this Gahanna/New Albany-located donut shop offers made-to-order treats. But if you’re in a creative rut, they feature a menu of suggested donuts + toppings. They also food truck you can reserve for special events, or you can look for them when they’re out making the rounds in Central Ohio. 

Suga Pies — this Columbus spot is a specialty cupcake bakery. You can also find their banana budding on The Pitt BBQ Grille’s dessert menu. 

The Pit BBQ Grille — started by four friends (some of who are former OSU football players), this spot brings you pit-style BBQ. And don’t forget to stop by their spot in North Market’s Bridge Park location in Dublin too!  

Links-N-Lemonade — let your imagination run wild and create your own gourmet hotdog at this Central Ohio restaurant.

Creole Kitchen — this family-run restaurant is known for making their own sauces and spices, bringing a true taste to its dishes. You can also order their special blend of creole seasonings to use in your very own kitchen. Or maybe use it with their featured recipe for Creole Chicken with Broccoli and Sweet Potato Wedges.  

Lifestyle Café — don’t sacrifice taste when you’re trying to eat healthy. This plant-based cafe (with organic, local, non GMO food) has all your fave breakfast and lunch items. 

replenish: the spa co-op — located in the heart of downtown Columbus (Discovery District) this space offers every way to treat your mind and body. From yoga to massage, meditation to facials.

The Village Host — take a mini vacay and book one of these gorgeous rentals from a Columbus husband and wife duo. 

YELO APLE — this botanical plant store in Columbus is here to help adorn your house with greenery. They offer potted and un-potted plants, like succulents (for those of us who need a plant that’s a little green thumb adverse). They also offer free local delivery from their shop too.

Beyond the Brix — is serving up good food, cocktails and more. 

Flavor 91 Bistro — known for their natural, locally sourced and grass fed burgers, this Whitehall restaurant serves up delicious food.

Hoyo’s Kitchen — serving up Somali cuisine, this top-rated Columbus eatery has locations in North Market and Columbus Square. 

Crafted Culture Brew — grab a glass at this Gahanna spot, which is Central Ohio’s first Black-owned craft brewery. 

Ter Bakes— Columbus’ Teresa is sharing her love of baking with recipes and mouth-watering photos. Showcasing African and Russian dishes, she’s bringing a sweet flavor to the Midwest. Follow her on Instagram at @ter_bakes. 

Afra Grill — this Columbus restaurant is bringing East African cuisine right to your plate. 

The Nile Vegan — this vegan/vegetarian spot focuses on (made from scratch) Ethiopian dishes. It was also named “Best Vegan BIPOC Owned Business of 2020.” 

Sweet D Organics — handcrafted in Columbus, these all-natural body self care products will make you feel fresh, rejuvenated and balanced.

Chunky Armadillo — the Short North boutique is here to attire you in bright, bold and fun(ky) style apparel and accessories.

Splendor Revival — specializing in vintage and handmade caftans, clothing and accessories, you’ll find amazing unique finds among her curated collection. You can also shop her collection at The Little Light Collective in Clintonville.

House of Foster — this modern fragrance shop want to keep your space – and life – smelling great. This year, she was also one of Madewell’s “Hometown Heroes.” 

B.Eclectic — adorn yourself with unique handcrafted bags and accessories inspired by travel, West Indian culture, and diversity when you shop from this Columbus business. 

The Witch’s Bath — wash the stress away with pop-culture inspired bath bombs and other skincare products from this local Columbus maker. 

Jamison & Bexley — who says adults always get to be the stylish ones? This clothing company outfits your kiddos in pieces that will keep them fashionable and functional. As their tagline says, “adventurous clothes for adventurous kids.”

Black Arts Plus — looking for art, books? Then Black Arts Plus is the spot for you.

Krazzy Comics — this Gahanna comics store is suped up with all your fave heroes and panel pals. Krazzy Comics was featured in a new book on the Black comics community. 

Ivory Paper Co — add some style to your organization with planners, stationary and stickers from this Ohio store.  

William H. Thomas Gallery — known as the Urban Cultural Arts Foundation, the William H. Thomas Art Gallery is a community-based gallery that’s brought art to Columbus for over 30 years.

MMELO — this sweet spot is will satisfy any dessert fan. 

J’s Sweet Treats and Wedding Cakes — this premier boutique bakery will have you drooling over their cake creations.

Boozy Bakes — their tagline says it all, “your favorite cocktail in a cupcake!”

& Juice Co. — quench your thirst thanks to this Columbus-based cold-pressed juice company.

owner of sweet experience with in this together ohio sign behind store counter in toledo ohio

Northwest Ohio

Sweet Experience — get your dessert to go with this Toledo spot’s desserts in a jar. 

Jera’s Heavenly Sweet —this Toledo area bakery will satisfy any sweet tooth. 

Black Frog Brewery — located in Holland, this nanobrewery serves “great beer for great people.”

Fangboner Farms — offering several options, it’s their natural selections that are the most notable. Like dried herbs, meat rubs, spices and teas, or their perennials and the famous Grandma’s Lemon Loaf.

Vegan Taste — this Toledo spot will treat you with some tasty vegan and gluten-free sweets.

Jamaican Spice — offering an authentic taste of Caribbean food, this Jamaican restaurant is a dining-must!

Smashdawgz Food Truck — serving Toledo and the surrounding area, this gourmet hotdog food truck is here with your favorite food.

HotBox Bistro — you’ll want to order everything on the menu at this Toledo cajun & soul food restaurant. 

Glaze’Em Gourmet Funnel Cakes — like funnel cake, but want to kick it up a notch? Then try Glaze’Em for a gourmet and out-of-this-world funnel cake.

Ruby’s Kitchen — order yourself a family-style meal with Southern-inspired cooking at this Toledo restaurant.

We Be Ribs — an award winning catering service, its BBQ is perfect for any occasion. 

DuweyWings — order up some wings at this Toledo spot.

Cecil’s Grill by Ross —this Lima restaurant is here to fill your plate with ribs, chicken, fish, pulled pork and ALL the fixings!

EYE Envy — see clearly with EYE Envy. The Toledo-based online eyewear boutique will treat your eyes right with stylish frames.

Toledope — this apparel company will keep you attired in the latest trends, while also showing off your Toledo pride.

Simply D’Vine Boutique — be the style icon you know yourself to be, by shopping at Simply D’Vine Boutique.

Beyond Blends Hair Studio — head to Bowling Green for your next stylish look at this barbershop. 

Total Circuit Fitness — sweat it out at this Toledo gym, with personal training and circuit classes. 

owner of lotus candle in cleveland standing in front of display of candles

Northeast Ohio

Lotus Candle — fill your home with amazing aromas from this family-owned shop in Cleveland. 

THE SOAP MASON — get clean this summer with handcrafted artisan soaps, skincare ad bodycare products.

Hippie Chemist — enjoy the all natural body care products from this Ohio shop.

Choate BODY —  a company that focuses on organic body and skincare that’ll leave you feeling nourished and refreshed.

Cathy’s Gourmet Ice Cream Sandwiches — grab one of these delicious ice cream sandwiches or book their Cookie N Cream truck for your next party! 

Pat’s Granola — what’s a better snack, breakfast or dessert topping than a tasty mix of gluten-free rolled oats (and organic ingredients)!

The Roaming Biscuit — find delicious biscuits at this Cleveland spot. 

The Sweet Fix Bakery — with a variety of baked goods from cupcakes and cookies, to cakes and pies, this Cleveland Heights shop is a favorite.

BLACK BOX FIX — from celebrity Chef Eric Rogers and team, this sandwich and street food spot feeding Cleveland and Lyndhurst right.

Empress Taytu — this Cleveland Ethiopian restaurant is known for its delicious dishes.

Irie Jamaican Kitchen — serving up fast-casual dining with Jamaican dishes, this Cleveland spot is sure to amaze. Be sure to try the Irie Jahpotle Bowl.

Zoma — get an authentic taste in Cleveland at this Ethiopian restaurant.

Sunshine Cafe — get your fix of vegetarian/vegan food at this Cleveland eatery.

Rosemary’s Vegan Daughter — a family-owned Cleveland vegan food spot that brings a vegan flair t your favorite dishes.

Swerve Grille — with some of Northeast Ohio’s best food, this Beachwood spot is sure to hit the spot.

Brown’s Corner Restaurant — on the corner of Miles and E 146th Street, this family owned and operated Cleveland breakfast spot is here to make sure you enjoy the most important meal of the day.

Choukouya Resto-Bar — one of Cleveland’s Afro-European restaurants, they’re serving a vibrant and fun dining experience.

Sauce the City — the premier original hot chicken restaurant, this spot (located inside Ohio City Galley) brings tastes from all over to Cleveland.

Nephew’s Restaurant — this Akron spot serves Southern comfort dishes, like classic fried chicken. But it’s their “Nephew Burger” that’s the real claim to fame.

Frederick’s Wine & Dine — located in Warrensville Heights, this bar is known for its music as much as its eats.

Magna Wine Boutique — offering wine tastings, pairings, this family-owned wine shop in Historic Bedford wants to make wine fun, educational and accessible.

The Vineyards of Château Hough — this urban farm located in the historic Hough neighborhood, offers several wines. 

Urbean Joe Coffee — start your morning off right with a cup brewed from this independent coffee company.

Dad Storybooks — reading with your kids is always great! And this Cleveland-based company is ready with your next book (you can order books here).

Elizabeth’s Books & Writing Centre — read all about it when you shop at this bookstore founded by Akron native, Rachel Elizabeth Cargle. 

Daybreak Yoga — bring the namaste into your life with this Bedford yoga studio. Try their livestream classes or if you’re new to yoga, check out their online beginner courses. 

GrooveRyde — sweat in the most and groovy way at this fitness spot. 

Brittany’s Record Shop — get all your vinyl love at this record store, which focuses on hip-hop, reggae, soul and jazz. 

ode{vintage} — curated by Olivia, this vintage spot showcases some remarkable finds. Bonus, you can also see some of her pieces at Océanne (jewelry).

KNRD — accessorize yourself with a handmade jewelry piece designed by Candace Cunard.

DMH Exclusives — shop women’s accessories and outfit your style with handpicked pieces.

sandwich on table with knife sticking out at boomtown biscuits and whiskey restaurant cincinnati Ohio

Southwest Ohio

Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey — bringing the feel of the pioneering spirit, this Cincinnati restaurants is being a unique dining experience coupled with a taste of true comfort food.

Conscious Kitchen — this restaurant is dedicated to delicious food that’s healthy and tasty.

Island Frydays — this Cincinnati restaurants is the place to go if you’re craving Jamaican dishes. And if it seems familiar, there’s a chance you saw them featured on an episode of DDD!

BŌL — an acacia bowl bar (and food truck) is serving up artisan acacia bowls.

K&J Seafood Co. — this restaurant provides a taste of Louisiana-style seafood. Or as they say, “Bringing Nawlins to the Nati.” 

Teranga Restaurant — known for its Senegalese food, this African/American restaurant in Hartwell focuses on its fusion of dishes.

Just Q’In — this eatery promises to deliver freshly smoked BBQ. And if you can’t grab a plate while their out, you can pick up a bottle of their sauce at Jungle Jim’s.

Chicken’s Head — well-known in Dayton for its food, perfect for your next meal.

Divine Appetite Cafe — make a stop in West Chester for a home-cooked style meal of soul food, Caribbean and West African foods. Plus, they also offer desserts and pastries as the perfect after treat.

Jamaica Mon — enjoy good vibes and Caribbean cuisine.

Neal’s Famous BBQ — the barbecue is famous and the All Purpose Sauce is award-winning at this eatery.

Mz Jade’s Soulfood — head to Middletown for classic comfort-style soul food.

Boom Box Buns — next time you’re in the OTR (Over-The-Rhine), grab a steamed bun from this takeaout place.

Mutt’s Sauce — is your cooking missing something? It’s probably this sweet, tangy and a little spicy sauce. Or maybe it’s the spice collection? Whether it’s sauce or spice, you’re next meal will be finger-licking-good! 

Honey Child Artisan Pops —enjoy these frozen treats made with no refined sugar. But plenty of flavor!

Sugar — a dessert delivery that makes gourmet cookies, cupcakes and cakes. 

Sweet Petit Desserts — feast your eyes on these confectionary creations. You can find these sweet treats by heading over to Cream + Sugar Coffeehouse. 

Cream + Sugar Coffeehouse — it’s easy to bring people together when you offer them coffee, plus breakfast and lunch treats, from this Evanston coffee spot

Esoteric Brewery Company — enjoy a beer (or one of their new Biermosas) at this Cincinnati spot. 

Alematic Artisan Ales — this Huber Heights neighborhood brewery focuses on small batch ales.

Revel Urban Winery — an OTR urban winery that features a variety of wine that’s made onsite.

Six Acres B&B — this premier bead and bed and breakfast in Cincinnati is the perfect getaway spot.

Smith & Hannon Bookstore — check out the #1 bookstore for African American literature in Cincinnati (and OTR).

GO(O)D Co. — a Cincinnati apparel company that wants you to “wear who you are and live what you believe.”

BlaCk OWned Outwear — outfit yourself in style with this Cincinnati-based retailer. And check out their “Stripes Don’t Come Easy” Cincinnati Bengals line. 

Alexis Nickelle Co. — treat your senses to a crafted soy candle from this Cincinnati-based maker.

Flora Lee Naturals — this small batch skincare line will give you a fresh and clean feel.

Minor Obsession — treat yourself with all-natural skincare products. 

Diamyn’s Crystal Bar — learn more about crystals, while also picking up some custom jewelry from this Cincinnati shop located in the Clifton neighborhood. 

boxes of glazed salmon over white rice with broccoli from butchers bites in athens ohio
Photo credit: Butcher’s Bites, Facebook

Southeast Ohio

Butcher’s Bites — a meal-prep service in Athens that brings fresh, prepared and packaged meals.

Mauvette’s — specializing in Caribbean fusion, Mauvette, a Jamaican transplant, brings her cooking to Southeast Ohio.

Odyssey Nutrition — this spot in Athens serves smoothies, teas and everything to quench your thirst.

S.W.I.M. Printed — located in Athens, this direct to garment printing company is here for all your design ideas.

Iris Rose Wellness Massage — this massage therapy practice (part of Athens Advanced Chiropractic) is here to keep you relaxed and healthy.

For more Made in Ohio businesses and ways to #BuyBlackOhio, check out #OhioFindItHere at Ohio.org.