Old Arthur’s Barbecue Products carries forward recipes first crafted in the 1800s by Arthur “Old Arthur” Watts, a formerly enslaved pit master whose flavors have endured for generations. Today, his descendants preserve that legacy through their business while also supporting children’s literacy initiatives in his honor.
Category: Food
Posted inBUSINESS
Baltimore women turn cultural roots and community ties into culinary success stories
Baltimore women entrepreneurs, Montana Logan and Elisa Milan, are breaking barriers in the male-dominated food industry by building businesses rooted in their cultural identities and community ties. Despite facing challenges such as capital and sexism, both have seen success and credit being embraced by Baltimore.
Posted inBaltimore News
Charm City is farm city: How Baltimore’s urban farms might be the best weapon against rising food costs
Baltimore’s network of 40 urban farms and 60 community gardens is helping residents cope with rising grocery costs by providing affordable—or often free—fresh produce in neighborhoods with limited healthy food options. Rooted in a century-old tradition and strengthened by decades of city policy, these farms not only feed communities but also foster job skills, entrepreneurship and social connection.
Posted inDMV News
5 Washingtonians spotlight beloved Black-owned businesses
By Nyame-Kye KondoSpecial to the AFRO The AFRO had the pleasure of catching up with some Washingtonians as they went about their daily lives. We asked five individuals to name their favorite Black-owned businesses in the area and their answers reflected both the shared culture and varied interests of the African-American community. Dezhane Moore – […]
Posted inAfro Briefs
Morning Glory Homestead: Cultivating history, heritage and hospitality
On St. Helena Island in South Carolina, Anthony and Belinda Jones have transformed their ancestral farm into a living classroom and cultural retreat. Through immersive camping experiences, storytelling, traditional meals and educational programs, they celebrate and preserve Gullah heritage while sustaining their family farm.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Iconic DC staple Ben’s Chili Bowl to close temporarily for renovations
Ben’s Chili Bowl is temporarily closing its historic U Street location in Washington, D.C., for the first time in over 60 years to undergo essential repairs and renovations. During construction, the beloved eatery will continue serving customers from a nearby pop-up location starting July 17.
Posted inBaltimore News
Black Restaurant Week returns to Baltimore for 5th year of food and culture
Black Restaurant Week returns to Baltimore, spotlighting Black-owned culinary businesses and driving visibility, community ties, and growth. The Empanada Lady’s success reflects its power to amplify local talent.
Posted inBaltimore Events
Baltimore’s A Taste of Summer to offer community and culinary adventure
Baltimore’s “A Taste of Summer” Long Table Dinner Series, founded by Nailah Queen and James Dickey, uses food, fashion and fellowship to celebrate community, culture and local entrepreneurship. With a vibrant outdoor dining experience and spotlight on Black and minority-owned culinary talent, the event transforms a shared meal into a powerful symbol of connection and creativity.
Posted inINTERNATIONAL
A beer pioneer, South Africa’s first Black female brewery owner trains a new generation
Apiwe Nxusani-Mawela, South Africa’s first Black female craft brewery owner, is training a new generation of brewers—most of them young Black women—at her Brewsters Academy in Johannesburg. With a focus on science, tradition, and inclusivity, she aims to diversify the male-dominated beer industry while reviving African brewing heritage.
Posted inMental Health
Experts share key foods to reduce stress and improve mental health
Mental health continues to affect millions across the U.S., with experts pointing to diet as a powerful tool for improving emotional well-being. Incorporating foods like fatty fish, leafy greens, and berries—while limiting processed foods, sugar, and alcohol—can help reduce stress and support brain health.
Posted inFood
Divergent Donuts is redefining baked goods with bold flavors and community spirit
Ewuraesi Richetts opened Divergent Donuts in Havre de Grace, Md., to reimagine what a donut shop could be—offering bold flavors like pizza and crème brûlée alongside a community-centered space for events and connection. Rooted in family and inspired by her Ghanaian upbringing, Richetts sees the shop as both a tribute to her late father’s entrepreneurial dreams and a launchpad for others.
Posted inFood
Culinary hub opens in West Baltimore
The Mill on North Food Hall officially opened its doors on April 24, marking a major milestone in the revitalization of West Baltimore’s West North Avenue corridor. Designed to be a community-led, locally owned space, the food hall brings together six neighborhood-rooted vendors to serve affordable meals and foster connection in a historically underserved area.