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Celebrate the rich, diverse and vibrant culture of Dutchess County's Black community by shopping and dining at these local, tourism-related Black-owned businesses.
Providing clients with a wide selection of contemporary clothing and accessories, owner Darryl Gamble has been servicing and styling women at his Rhinebeck boutique since 2005. Whether it’s for a special event, business, or casual wear, the friendly and talented staff is sure to assist you in finding the perfect pieces for any occasion.
Essie’s Restaurant is run by Executive Chef and Owner, Chef Brandon Walker, whose modern American menu is inspired by global flavors and his family roots – the Caribbean and American South. Essie’s not only showcases Walker’s flavorful cuisine but also pays homage to his grandmother and the women in his family who ignited his interest in the culinary arts. The elegant yet casual restaurant, in the heart of Poughkeepsie’s Little Italy, is named after his grandmother and is a great choice for dinner or a weekend brunch. Fun fact: Walker competed on the reality competition show Chopped on the Food Network.
With reviews like "Great food! Great people!" and "Hands down, best chicken and waffles I've ever had!" you know BJ's Restaurant is going to be good. This family-friendly, soul food establishment is known for its generous portions of comfort classics like fried chicken, collards greens and homemade desserts. This local favorite is not to be missed!
Make life a little easier with this locally-owned and operated professional, reliable concierge service. Whether it be picking up groceries, delivering lunch for a company whose employees are engaged in an all-day meeting or providing airport transportation, Hudson Valley Concierge is that extra set of hands during a busy time. You name the chore, they will handle it with quick, convenient and friendly service!
“Family-run, country kitchen offers the best comfort foods prepared and served with love!” For owner, Khalliah ‘Lady K’ Murphy, cooking up home-style southern cuisine for others is a passion, and it shows. Try classics like fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, rice pilaf and collard greens. Share the love at your next family gathering or event, as Lady K’s offers catering too!
Matcha Thomas is a fast-casual, wellness teahouse serving vegan & gluten-free functional sips & sweets for the soul while offering a place for peace. Serving crafted matcha lattes, seasonally inspired boba drinks and classic treats with a nourishing twist! In addition, they've curated a premium selection of sustainably sourced, local and organic wellness teas for well-being, boosting energy and winding down. They use premium ceremonial-grade matcha grown in the region of Uji, in Kyoto prefecture, Japan then hand-picked and artisan-roasted to perfection in small batches.
Opened in 2017, by now co-owner, Jean David Michel and his wife Alexandra, Megabrain Comics serves the community as the go-to comic book shop in Rhinebeck. Connecting with like-minded comic fans and record enthusiasts, the shop has comics and collectibles for adults, kids, teens, BIPOC, the LGBTQ+ community and so much more. A fun place to hang out, have fun and get lost in a good comic!
Located in the Hudson Valley Food Hall, Miz Hattie’s Southern BBQ serves up comforting Southern BBQ classics, soups, salad, sweet tea and delicious baked goods. A North Carolina native who resides in Beacon, Miz Hattie is bringing the flavors of her childhood to Main Street.
Experience bold flavors and diverse dishes at Twisted Soul Food Concepts! Chef Ira Lee and his wife Brenda Black are cooking up house-prepared dumplings, Columbian-style arepas, Argentinean empanadas, noodle bowls, steamed buns, cupcakes, bubbles teas and so much more! With vegetarian and vegan options, the menu has something for everyone to enjoy!
Taste authentic and unique Caribbean cuisine in the heart of Poughkeepsie’s downtown historic waterfront district. The family-owned and operated restaurant prides itself on great tasting food that “tastes just like mom used to make.” There’s truly nothing like home-style cooking in a welcoming atmosphere.
Upstream Café offers French Caribbean cuisine in a relaxed space where patrons can hang out, connect and enjoy the ambiance. Alongside a selection of baked goods, Upstream Café's menu will include jerk chicken, honey barbecue ribs, salmon and escovitch fish. Chef Garfield Salmon keeps the menu fresh and exciting by including seasonal options and ingredients.
Are you a Black-owned tourism-related business that we missed? Let us know! Reach out to raphael@dutchesstourism.com.
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