Black History Month: Where to Experience History & Culture
Black history isn’t something we only reflect on during the month of February, it’s something we experience, every day, in this city. Washington, DC is layered with stories of resilience, creativity, activism, and joy, and Black History Month is the perfect moment to engage more deeply with the places that honor and amplify those stories. There’s iconic landmarks and living cultural spaces here that provide meaningful ways to connect with Black history and culture across the District.
Where to Go for History & Culture
Black Broadway Walking Tour
Explore the U Street Corridor, once known as Black Broadway, and uncover the stories of legendary musicians, theaters, businesses, and community leaders who shaped DC’s cultural identity.
Go-Go Museum
A love letter to DC’s homegrown sound, the Go-Go Museum celebrates the music, artists, and community that made Go-Go a cultural force and a living tradition.
Howard Theatre
A historic stage that has welcomed icons from Duke Ellington to Ella Fitzgerald, the Howard Theatre remains a cornerstone of Black performance and culture in DC.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
A powerful space honoring Dr. King’s legacy, words, and enduring call for justice, equality, and service.
National Museum of African American History and Culture
A deeply moving journey through African American history, culture, and contributions — from slavery to the present day — told with care, honesty, and pride.
Chez Joey (at Arena Stage)
A vibrant theatrical production exploring Black identity, storytelling, and lived experience through a contemporary lens — proof that Black history is also unfolding in real time.
Feeding Us Deliciously - Black-Owned Restaurants & Chefs in the DMV
Black history in DC doesn’t live only in museums and monuments, it lives at the table. The city’s Black chefs, restaurateurs, bakers, and beverage pros continue to nourish us and tell stories through food every single day. From soulful comfort classics to boundary-pushing fine dining these are the
kitchens shaping how DC eats now:
ANJU
With Chef Angel Barreto behind the stove, ANJU blends Korean technique.
Ben’s Chili Bowl
The OG of OGs, a DC institution serving half-smokes & history.
Cane
Chef Jeanine Prime brings Trinidadian cooking to DC
The Continent
A longtime destination for Pan-African flavors & nightlife.
DCity Smokehouse
Craft barbecue of smoked meats.
Doro Soul Food
American soul food layered with Ethiopian flavors.
Dogon
Chef Kwame Onwuachi brings another award-winning concept to DC, stories through an Afro-Caribbean lens.
Dukem Ethiopian
A cornerstone of DC’s Ethiopian dining scene, known for generous platters.
EATOPIA Eatery
Art-forward restaurant offering authentic, high-quality Ethiopian cuisine.
Elmina
Ghanaian flavors take center stage under Chef Eric Adjepong.
ETHIOPIC
Elevated Ethiopian cuisine in a refined setting
Fish Scale
A sustainable seafood restaurant in Shaw, owned and operated by siblings Brandon Williams and Kristal Williams.
Florida Avenue Grill
Open since 1944, this diner serves large portions of down-home Southern classics.
Hedzole
Chef Candice Mensah’s fast-casual spot specializing in Ghanaian and West African cuisine.
Marcus by Marcus Samuelsson: Led by Chef Anthony Jones, blending American cuisine with African and Black culinary traditions.
Makers Union
A modern gathering place with global influences.
Melange
Home to one of DC’s best burgers, courtesy of Chef Elias Taddesse.
Milk & Honey Café
Neighborhood café serving comforting classics from breakfast through dinner.
MLK Deli
A community staple, owner Tyrone White is known for comfort food and generous portions.
Mr Bake Sweets: Kareem (Mr. Bake) Queeman delivers sweet treats around the DMV
Negril the Jamaican Eatery
Known for authentic island favorites like curry chicken, oxtail, and their signature Jamaican patties
NuVegan Café
A plant-based café spotlighting vegan comfort food through a Black culinary lens.
Hen Quarter Prime
Southern restaurant in DC’s Buzzard Point.
Oohh’s & Aahh’s
Iconic soul food institution owned and operated by Chef Oji Abbott.
Park at 14th
A longtime destination for elevated cocktails and late-night energy.
Sankofa Video Books & Café
A cultural hub where food, books, film, and Black history intersect. Founded in 1997-1998 by filmmakers Shirikiana and Haile Gerima.
St. James
Another Jeanine Prime concept featuring modern Caribbean cuisine with a lively vibe.
Sost: Restaurant, café and speakeasy experience where the Black and African Diaspora thrive via music and food.
Sweet Home Café
A celebration of the African diaspora, located within the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Vibe Restaurant
A dining and nightlife destination blending global flavors with DJ-driven energy.
Willow Song
Chef Jeffrey Williams brings thoughtful cooking rooted in storytelling.
Black History Month is both a moment of reflection and a call to action. This month — and always — let’s keep learning, supporting, and honoring the stories that make this city what it is.
