As the whole world protests and marches in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, more and more people who do not identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of colour) have begun to re-evaluate their choices and are starting to explore and educate themselves on Black voices. Rightly so, Black authors are topping bestseller lists, companies are diversifying their staff, and Black-owned restaurants all over the world are finally being recognised for their cuisine.
In Tokyo, while there are a number of restaurants, cafés and bars owned by people of colour, these Black-owned eateries are steadily becoming a part of the city’s culture. A huge hit with locals, expats and tourists, reservations at these places are recommended at the weekend. Here are some of our favourite Black-owned restaurants and eateries in Tokyo, whether you’re craving Ethiopian injera and wot, American brunch or homemade fettuccine.
Soul Food House
One of the most popular American restaurants in Tokyo, Soul Food House serves up Southern-style fried chicken and waffles, macaroni and cheese and a mean Sunday brunch. The restaurant also offers vegetarian sliders, a classic American caesar salad and waffles served every way imaginable. Located in Azabu-Juban, Soul Food House is a friendly, English (and Japanese)-speaking restaurant that will warm both your body and your, well, soul. Reservations are a must.
Calabash
Entering Calabash is like journeying to West Africa without leaving Tokyo. The menu is divided into three countries: Mali, Senegal and the Ivory Coast. Try Senegal’s national dish thieboudienne (made with fish, rice and seasoned with tomatoes), couscous from Mali, or maafe, a peanut stew with origins in Senegal and Mali. If you’re on a budget, the lunch set is a good deal, ranging from ¥800 to ¥1,500. Every Friday night, Calabash hosts a Congolese Rumba, or Rumba Lingala live music night. Arrive early, order an African-imported beer or wine, and get ready to dance. Reservations are recommended for certain days, see the event schedule for more details.
Kyle’s Good Finds
Craving an American-style pie or cake? Kyle has your back. This little bakery in Nakano whips up desserts perfect for special occasions, Thanksgiving or just when you’re feeling peckish. Pick up sweet pecan pie, carrot cake, traditional pumpkin pie, cookies, brownies and more. Want to surprise the young ‘uns with a birthday cake? Cake decoration, including renderings of superheroes and children’s anime characters, is available as well. Order delivery online – or if you’re in the area, stop by for a slice.
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Queen Sheba
For Ethiopian food, look no further than Queen Sheba in Nakameguro. Offering two types of course meals, this restaurant is perfect for hungry groups. The stew set focuses on wot, a curry-like stew, while the regular course set is a sample platter with a samosa, kebab, wot, injera flatbread and other delicious items. Head there for dinner to listen to live Ethiopian music while kicking back with a few cocktails or bottles of imported African beer and wine.
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Addis Restaurant
Addis is a jack-of-all-trades restaurant in Meguro. Specialising in Ethiopian cuisine, especially freshly-baked injera flatbread and wot, Addis also offers homemade fettuccine, paella, kebabs and lamb hamburger steaks. Addis is best for large groups, and with a menu this big, everyone is sure to find something to love. Reservations are recommended – just fill out the English-language booking form on the website.
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