Looking to support NYC's best black-owned businesses? From ice cream shops and party entertainers to clothing lines and craft studios, these selections are perfect for your family.
If you're curious how to approach the topic of race and identity with your children, have a look at these resources and picture books that celebrate diversity and inclusion.
A Princess Like Me in NYC
A Princess Like Me is perfect if you have an impending celebration: Diverse characters are at the ready to entertain your kids with a fun meet and greet. However, since get-togethers are not encouraged at the moment, why not surprise your little ones with a sweet video message from their favorite princess?
BCakeNY
Your kids' jaws will drop—and mouths will salivate—when they see these gorgeous custom cakes. The bake shop's founder and designer, Miriam Milord, creates bites that are equally appropriate for your child's birthday or a spot in the museum. (That Vampirina cake—wow!)
Brooklyn Lighthouse
Zaneesha wasn't about to dress her two little boys in boring infant clothing. She decided to use her need for fun kids' clothing to create a line of vibrant, affordable and cool pieces that youngsters will love.
The Lit. Bar
The Bronx's sole independent bookstore is a must for adults, particularly because its wine bar is the perfect space for people to connect and talk about their favorite stories. But don't discount the shop's kiddie lit offerings: You can find popular inclusive titles like Gabrielle Union's Welcome to the Party, LeBron James' I Promise and other great picture book and YA selections.
Melba's
Melba Wilson's Harlem hotspot is home to all-things comfort food: chicken and waffles, a mac 'n cheese trio with pepper jack, mozzarella and cheddar, burgers and plenty of other tasty eats to satisfy your cravings. If you can't make it uptown (or miss dining in during the current lockdown) pick up a copy of Melba's American Comfort cookbook and give her famous dishes a whirl at home.
Mikey Likes It
Pop culture-inspired scoops are up for grabs at Mikey Likes It. The artisan, organic and all-natural sweets from Michael Cole's shop include flavors such as Ice Ice Mikey (a super-cool vanilla), Truffle Shuffle (chocolate with mini semi-sweet chocolate chips and mini chocolate-covered marshmallows) and Pink Floyd (a strawberry cheesecake mashup).
Sisters Uptown Bookstore
The family-owned and operated literary spot is not just dedicated to promoting African American authors, but it focuses on providing educational resources and fostering an inclusive community by way of book clubs, events and other activities.
String Thing Studio
Calling all creative types: Felicia Eve's Brooklyn yarn shop will inspire you to put together a work of art. Not only does String Thing Studio offer a wide selection of supplies, but its events, garden get-togethers, after-school programs and private classes make the Park Slope craft haven all the more charming. Keep an eye on the studio's website for virtual kids' classes!
Sugar Hill Creamery
This family-owned creamery was founded by two longtime Harlem residents, and they know what it takes to make an awesome sundae—and flavors like "Sweet Socialism" (chocolate) and "Pon De Replay" (a coconut and passionfruit combo) are proof.
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