
Archive owner Cheryse Terry. Photo: Ashley Mahoney/Axios Charlotte
Charlotte’s full of wildly popular Black-owned businesses, some that have been around for generations serving family recipes, others that sprouted up in recent years amid a larger entrepreneurial boom.
By the numbers: Charlotte ranks as the No. 7 hub for Black-owned businesses in the U.S., per a recent report from Charlotte-based LendingTree. Black-owned businesses make up 4.9% of all small businesses in our metro.
Yes, but: 22.8% of our population is Black, so there’s room to grow the portion of local firms that are Black-owned.
Here’s our ongoing list of Black-owned businesses in Charlotte to check out.
- Of note: This roundup isn’t an exhaustive list of all Charlotte’s Black-owned businesses, and that there are plenty of other beloved non-business organizations that are rapidly growing, such as Mad Miles Run Club.
Editor’s Note: This article was first published in June of 2020. It was last updated on February 23, 2023.
FOOD + DRINK
Abugida
The Central Avenue spot owned by a brother-and-sister duo from Ethiopia serves some of Charlotte’s best injera bread — a spongy flatbread native to the East African country.
To support: Dine in, order online or call 980-237-2760 to place an order. Follow the cafe on Instagram.

Abugida’s vegetarian feast. Photo: Emma Way/Axios
Anntony’s Caribbean Cafe
Approachable cafe serving Caribbean cuisines like jerk chicken and wings. Anntony’s also has a small patio out front of its Elizabeth location. The cafe has a second location near University.
To support: Dine in or call (704) 342-0749 to place an order.
Another?! Food Truck
Contrary to the name, this is not just another food truck. The menu experiments with staple dishes from the Northeast and the Deep South. Current menu selections include dishes like seafood mac and cheese with shrimp and crab and a hot chicken smash sandwich.
To support: Find the truck’s next stop here or on Instagram.

Pulled pork mac (discontinued menu option) from Another!? Food Truck. Photo: Symphony Webber/Axios
Archive
Owner Cheryse Terry opened coffee and retail shop Archive in August 2022 with the goal to “archive” Black culture in Charlotte. It has locally-roasted coffee and espresso, plus nostalgic books, magazines and relics.
To support: Visit the coffee shop at 2023 Beatties Ford Road and stay updated on Instagram.
Go deeper: Archive, a coffee shop celebrating Black culture, now open in west Charlotte

Archive owner Cheryse Terry. Photo: Ashley Mahoney/Axios
August June Desserts
Expect home-baked gourmet cakes and cupcakes because there’s nothing better than a freshly baked dessert, according to owner Natosha Fleming. Everything is made from scratch, and they offer nationwide shipping.
To support: Place an order for your next event on the website and follow August June Desserts on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. Note: The bakery is on a short break and will resume orders in March 2023.
Bird Pizzeria
The East Coast-style pizza joint from husband-and-wife duo Kerrel and Nkem Thompson opened in December 2021. You can’t go wrong with the classics, so we suggest trying Bird’s pepperoni pizza made with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, pepperoni and basil. Act fast – they’re known to sell out quickly.
To support: Order ahead online or place an order at the walk-up window. Follow along on Instagram.
Go deeper: East Coast-style pizzeria now open in Optimist Park

Photo: Emma Way/ Axios Charlotte
BW Sweets Bakery
Named after the owner’s late son, BW Sweets has something for every sweet tooth, including ice cream, cupcakes, cake slices, hot desserts, macarons, pastries, bread and doughnuts.
To support: Stop by the flagship east Charlotte location or the express location in South End. Order online for in-store pick-up.

BW Sweets Bakery owner, Frankie White.
Cloud South End
The intimate luxury lounge on South Mint Street was started by husband and wife duo Ramond “Mond” and Kyphi Boyd and features dishes like 24-karat gold leaf lemon pepper chicken wings and lollipop lamb chops.
To support: Visit the lounge at 1510 South Mint St. and make a table reservation here.
Go deeper: A new “luxury lounge” named Cloud opens tonight in Wilmore

Photo: Ashley Mahoney/Axios Charlotte
Crav’n Caribbean
Owned by Chef Loso, this Caribbean spot located in a ghost kitchen offers authentic Jamaican food like jerk chicken, curry chicken, brown stew chicken and oxtail. A popular item on the menu is the oxtail cheesesteak.
To support: Order online and pick up inside The City Kitch at 2200 Thrift Road.
Cuzzo’s Cuisine
Owned by cousins Andarrio and Anglee, who both hail from South Carolina, this spot specializes in southern comfort foods. The menu includes wings, lobster mac and cheese, chicken and waffles, fish, chicken tenders and shrimp, among other comfort food.
To support: Order in person from their location at 3418 Tuckaseegee Road or place an order online here. Cuzzo’s also has a University location at 9601 North Tryon St.

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Day & Night Cereal Bar
Charlotte’s first and only build-your-own cereal bar offers a wide selection of classics like Honey Nut Cheerios and Cap N’ Crunch, plus cereal varieties from around the world. LaMelo Ball’s go-to order is the Cosmo & Wanda shake.
Go deeper: Charlotte’s first cereal bar is now open — try the “Unicorn Breath” shake
To support: Visit the shop at 127 Brevard Ct. in uptown and follow along on Instagram for updates.

Day & Night co-owner Greg Robinson poses with Cosmo & Wanda shake. Photo: Ashley Mahoney/Axios.
Eden
Co-owners Markus Hunter and Michael Grant, say Eden will be a “versatile experience” with a hybrid bar/lounge.
To support: Visit the bar or lounge when they open in early March 2023 at 1212 Pecan Ave.
Go deeper: New three-story bar called Eden will open in Plaza Midwood next month
Derita Dairy Bar & Grill
The family-owned carry-out restaurant serves delicious burgers, hotdogs and milkshakes.
To support: Order online or pickup an order at 2737 W Sugar Creek Road.
Detour Coffeebar
The mobile coffee shop has dozens of drinks on its menu, from espressos and teas to sodas and smoothies.
To support: Follow their Instagram for updates and check out their schedule to grab your morning beverage of choice.

Detour Coffeebar owner Mike Hargett. (Courtesy Detour Coffeebar)
Evoke Coffee
The coffee company, which started as a mobile espresso bar, serves craft coffee inside the CLT HUB at 750 W Morehead St. Owner Joe Keenan’s goal is to bring people together over a cup of coffee.
To support: Stop by Evoke’s brick and mortar on West Morehead or book Evoke for your next event. Follow along on Instagram.
Freshwaters
Sharon and Cliff Freshwaters operate their namesake restaurant in the Fourth Ward tucked in a strip mall off Graham Street. They serve a mix of Southern and Cajun cuisine that’s both meat-lover and vegetarian-friendly.
To support: Dine in or call 704.503.9629 to order takeout.
Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar
Eliot Mosby owns the elevated venue with a restaurant, bar and hookah lounge offering the same wings and mild sauce the original Harold’s Chicken fast-casual chain is famous for.
To support: Dine in at the University City location 440 E McCullough Dr. Ste. A-100.
Go deeper: Popular Chicago chain Harold’s Chicken expanding to Charlotte with “ice bar” and hookah

Photo: Alexis Clinton/ Axios Charlotte
Hip Hop Smoothies
Shamika and Roberto Brooks started Hip Hop smoothies in 2018 as a mobile operation. Today, they still have their food truck and three additional locations.
To support: Stop by one of their three locations in Uptown (224 E. 7th St.), west Charlotte (249 Mt. Holly-Huntersville Road., Suite 210), or east Charlotte (5800 N. Sharon Amity Road., Suite H.). Keep up with their food truck updates on Instagram.
Go deeper: Black-owned smoothie shop aims to bring healthier options to community

Photo: Symphony Webber/Axios
Hot Box Next Level Kitchen
Located inside Southern Strain Beer Company, Hot Box Next Level Kitchen serves a wide selection of southern comfort dishes like deviled eggs and pimento cheese plus wing plates and pork sliders.
To support: Head to their kitchen at Southern Strain Beer Co. in Concord.
It’s Poppin! Gourmet Kettle Korn
Owned by Janelle & Desmen Milligan, this gourmet popcorn retailer is currently operating out of The Market at 7th St. They serve a variety of novelty popcorn flavors, like fried chicken kettle corn and cookies ‘n cream.
To support: Check them out at The Market at 7th St. or shop online and follow on Instagram for updates and specials.

Photo: Symphony Webber/Axios
Jazzy Cheesecakes
Jazzy’s serves cheesecake in every form and flavor. Owner Gerri Simmons started the business when she was a high schooler at East Mecklenburg in honor of her late uncle Jazzy. Expect everything from classic cheesecake with strawberries to honeybun cheesecake.
To support: Order online or stop by the store in University City 9402 Northlake W Dr., Ste. 102.

Jazzy’s pecan pie flavored cheesecake duo.
Juicin’ Juice Bar
A juice bar offering fresh cold pressed juices, organic açaí bowls, smoothies and cleanse programs.
To support: Place an order at 5818 Highland Shoppes Dr.
Jimmy Pearls Street Shack
Co-owners and chefs Oscar Johnson and DC “Coop” Cooper specialize in Tidewater, Virginia-inspired cuisine. One popular menu item is Uncle Gene’s Fish Sandwich, which is made with a piece of fried local fish, topped with field pea slaw and house-made hot sauce, garnished with Jimmy Sauce and packed onto a brioche roll.
To support: Follow Jimmy Pearl Street Shack on Instagram and book the truck for your next event.
Go deeper: New food truck Jimmy P’s Street Shack is coming to a street near you
Krustaceans Seafood
Former Panthers player Marcus Lucas opened Krustaceans as a way to bring good, low-country seafood to Charlotte. Customers can have spices and flavors added to their orders.
To support: Dine in at 2908 Oak Lake Blvd. (near the airport), order online or call (980) 207-3081.
Leah & Louise
The southern-inspired juke joint run by husband and wife duo Greg and Subrina Collier has become a Camp North End staple. The Colliers have been instrumental in taking Charlotte’s food scene to the next level.
Go deeper: “Holy sh*t”: Charlotte receives 3 nominations on James Beard Awards’ semifinalist listes Charlotte history”
To support: Make a reservation here.

Greg and Subrina Collier. Photo: Peter Taylor
LuLu’s Maryland Style Chicken & Seafood
The popular Maryland-style crab cake spot recently closed its second location on Central Avenue, but the original location at 2400 Tuckaseegee Road remains open.
To support: Order in-store, online or by calling 704-910-5593.

Photo courtesy Alvin C. Jacobs
Made From Scratch Truck
Chef Dallas Green serves up everything from fried lobster mac & cheese to chicken and waffles with strawberry butter.
To support: Follow Made From Scratch on Instagram.

Photo: Symphony Webber/Axios
Mariah’s Taco Spot
The birria tacos are a crowd favorite, but Mariah’s also has a selection of beef, chicken, shrimp and salmon tacos.
To support: FindMariah’s Taco Spot, including food truck updates, on Instagram.
Ms. DiDi’s Caribbean Kitchen
Mother/daughter duo Edith “Didi” Jean-Francois and Christina Bowman started their food truck, Ms. Didi’s Caribbean Kitchen, to bring Haitian cuisine to Charlotte.
To support: Keep up with their food truck locations on Instagram or place an order online.

Photo: Symphony Webber/Axios
Mr. Charles Chicken & Fish
Owner Michael Rhynes offers their popular fried chicken and fish along with a range of southern comfort food options for lunch, dinner and dessert at multiple locations.
To support: Place an order at their Statesville location (3100 Statesville Ave A.), make a reservation at their sit down spot (8006 Cambridge Commons Dr) or order at their upcoming Uptown location (413 Dalton Ave).
Mr. Seafood
The no-frills seafood joint is sure to have you licking your fingers. Popular menu items include seafood baskets and seafood party trays.
To support: Stop by Mr.Seafood at 5430 N Tryon St. or place an online order.
Nappy Chef
The take out only spot offers wings, fried chicken sandwiches, seafood macaroni and cheese plus fried chicken and waffles. There is also out door seating for you to enjoy your meal.
To support: Place a to go order online or in person at 5933 Albemarle Road.
Novelty House & Havana Smoke
Two concepts; one roof. Havana Smoke is an upscale cigar social club with a full bar and a small patio overlooking Uptown. One level above is Novelty House, a rooftop bar that’s decked out with flowers on the walls and ceiling.
To support: Stop in (123 E. 5th St.) for a cigar or a cocktail on the roof.
Go deeper: Rooftop bar and cigar lounge now open in Uptown’s newest tower

Photo: Symphony Webber/Axios Charlotte

Ian Jones, managing partner of Novelty House and Havana Smoke. Emma Way/Axios
Pauline Tea Bar and Apothecary
Owner Sherry Waters and her daughter created the tea bar to allow residents to unplug from their busy city lifestyles. The tea bar offers hot and cold tea options, books, pastries and a prayer room.
To support: Visit the serene tea bar at 2326 Arty Ave for minute to unwind or check out their Instagram for updates on events.
Popbar
Owned by Kia and Clarence Lyons, Popbar has handcrafted gelato, “sorbetto” and yogurt pops made with natural ingredients and fun toppings.
To support: Stop in for a pop at Popbar’s NoDa or Camp North End locations.
Related guide: 9 places in Charlotte to get snowcones, popsicles and more frozen treats

Photo: Symphony Webber/Axios
QC Lava Grill
The family-owned grill specializes in made-from-scratch dishes from fish and shrimp baskets to tacos.
To support: Browse their menu and place an order online. Follow their Instagram for updates.
Renaldo’s Culinary Experience
The popular to-go-only spot offers loaded pizzas, tacos and seafood pastas with a twist. Their more popular items include lots of oxtail on an oxtail pizza, taco or in a pasta.
To support: Place an order online or in person at 1540 West Blvd Suite #107.
Romeo’s Vegan Burgers
You may remember Romeo’s as the food truck that had lines of vegan-curious customers stretching down the block. Within about a year of starting the mobile operation, Romeo’s expanded to a brick-and-mortar location with a drive-thru window.
To support: Swing by their food truck (check their Instagram for location updates) or pull up to the drive-thru window at 5518 South Blvd.
Go deeper: Romeo’s Vegan Burgers truck to open first brick-and-mortar on South Boulevard

Photo courtesy Tigo Faulkner
Stats Restaurant Bar & Grill
The popular University City sports restaurant and bar offers food options including pasta and grits topped with a protein of your choice, craft cocktails and hookah. They also host events throughout the week.
To support: Visit them at 3425 David Cox Road.
Snow Your Roll
The seasonal food truck venture started by Akyah “Ky” Atkinson and her mother April Atkinson serves shaved ice and egg rolls. The menu has five egg roll options, 15 pre-made shaved ice options and 21 shaved ice syrups to mix and match.
To support: Follow Snow Your Roll on Instagram and visit them at 2730 North Graham St.
Go deeper: New food truck called Snow Your Roll serves shaved ice and egg rolls

Photo: Symphony Webber/Axios
Sub One Hoagie House
The family-owned and operated sandwich shop has been serving up subs for more than 30 years. If it’s your first time stopping in, order the New Jersey Steak Hoagie.
To support: Stop by their Fourth Ward location at 516 N Graham St.
Sweet Creations
A full-service catering company and culinary apprenticeship program. With each meal served, sustainable solutions to poverty, hunger and homelessness are created through the job training and social enterprise solution program.
To support: Cater your next event with the help of the food experts with Sweet Creations.
Tastebuds Popcorn – Concord
Try more than 200 flavors of gourmet popcorn at this veteran-owned business.
To support: Visit them at 3805 Concord Pkwy. South #132
Tattooz & Booz
In addition to offering tattoos and booze, the tattoo parlor also has a full restaurant menu with bar bites and larger plates, plus boozy cupcakes and hookah all under the same roof.
To support: Visit them at 505 E. 6th St., Ste. 100 in Uptown.

Lobster Tails and Shrimp. Photo: Paige Hopkins/Axios
Ten58 Sports Bar & Lounge
Owners Thomas Davis and his wife Kelly own the sports bar that offers shareable small bites, desserts and vegan options.
To support: Grab a drink while you watch the game at 430 W 4th St.
Go deeper: Former NFL player Thomas Davis is opening a new sports bar and lounge in Uptown
The Jugo Bar
The Jugo Bar’s motto is “no junk — just juice.” Owned by William A. Fulton (The Jugo Man), The Jugo Bar is a one-stop-shop for natural juices, hand-crafted lemonades and wellness products like elderberry syrup and sea moss gel.
To support: Pre-order online or visit the brick and mortar location in NoDa at 3205 N Davidson St.
Two Scoops Creamery
The beloved ice cream shop has a rotating list of creative ice cream flavors and ice cream cakes.
To support: Treat yourself at any of their four Charlotte-area locations (Plaza Midwood, South End, Lake Norman and McAdenville) and follow on Instagram.

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Urban Sweets
The South End shop offers ice cream with vegan and gluten-free options, plus milkshakes, popsicles, ice cream sandwiches, mini cakes, macarons and seasonal pastries.
To support: Try one of their 25 rotating ice cream flavors and follow on Instagram.
Go deeper: Ice cream shop with monthly subscription service to open in South End

Photo: Laura Barrero/Axios
Ve-Go Food Truck
The vegan, soul food truck serves up comfort dishes that would make any non-vegan do a double-take. Current menu offerings include pot roast, tacos, collard greens and mac and cheese.
To support: Catch Ve-Go at Pilot Brewing on Tuesday and at Birdsong Brewing on Wednesdays, and be sure to follow Ve-Go on Instagram.
What the Fries
The food truck and brick-and-mortar restaurant, owned by Jamie Barnes and Greg Williams, specializes in creatively topped fries and other delicious combinations, like lobster mac and cheese fries.
To support: Visit What The Fries in Pineville (10707 Park Road., Ste. F) or find their next food truck stop here.

Hot fries from What the Fries. Photo courtesy What the Fries
Weathered Souls
The Texas-based brewery opened a South End location in November, making it Charlotte’s first Black-owned brewery in nearly three years. It’s co-owned by Macus Baskerville, who first opened Weathered Souls in San Antonio in 2016. Aside from beer, the brewery has a food menu curated by Chef Greg Collier of Leah & Louise.
To support: Visit Weathered Souls at 255 Clanton Road and stay updated on Instagram.
Go deeper: Texas-based Weathered Souls Brewing Co. now open in South End

Photo: Laura Barrero/Axios
West End Fresh Seafood Market
Husband and wife duo Bernetta and Clarence Powell own and operate this west Charlotte staple. Bernetta opened it in 1998.
To support: Visit them at 2206 Beatties Ford Road.
1501 S Mint
The neighborhood cocktail lounge offers daily cocktail specials, a live DJ and weekly events.
To support: Visit at 1501 S Mint St or skip the long lines by making a reservation.
RETAIL
Black Forward Life
Handcrafted and organic soaps, body oils and other self-care essentials.
To support: Follow them on Instagram.
BLK MRKT
Part art gallery, part studio collaborative, BLK MRKT connects local arts and photographers of color at its location in Camp North End.
To support: Shop online or stop by their store in Camp North End (1824 Statesville Ave).
Captivate
This women’s boutique in SouthPark mall offers unique, quality pieces that fit any occasion.
To support: Visit their store at South Park at 4400 Sharon Road.
Charlotte Yarn
Shop for your knitting needs or register for a crochet class.
To support: Shop in-store at 1235 East Blvd. in Kenilworth Commons or sign up for a workshop.
Curio, Craft & Conjure
Curio, located at 3204-C North Davidson St. in NoDa, offers readings and energy clearing services, spell kits, talismans, crystals and stones, C4 candles, and other ritual-related things.
Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 12-5pm, Friday–Saturday 12-6pm and Sunday 12-5pm.
To support: Shop in-store, place an order online and follow on Instagram.
Evolution Aura
This luxury candle company specializes in hand-crafted, soy-based candles in three sizes: small (8oz), medium (28oz) and large (80oz), with names reflecting some of the most personal emotions, including love, strength, compassion and joy.
To support: Shop their online and follow on Instagram.
Great Things
Traci Bullock manages the second-hand boutique on Beatties Ford Road. The store is one of Friendship Community Development Corporation’s programs, a nonprofit that helps Charlotteans with affordable housing, transitional living and more.
To support: Shop in-store (1914 Beatties Ford Road) from noon to 6pm on Thursday and Friday and from 9am to 4pm on Saturday or online anytime.
Fitteds CLT
Fitted cap retailer owner Giovanni Brown closed the doors of his first popular location (at 621 McNinch St.) in mid January 2023 to reopen in Camp North End with purple brims hats plus apparel including authentic sports jerseys.
To support: Order a fitted hat online or stop by their new location opening in Camp North End at 701 Keswick Avenue, Suite 104.
Go deeper: Popular custom hat shop to open in Camp North End

FITTEDS at Camp North End
HBCU Pride Nation
The social media account and online store gives graduates and students of Historically Black Colleges and Universities a space to express their HBCU pride.
To support: Follow HBCU Pride Nation on Instagram and shop for merch on their online store.
Juicy Body Goddess
It’s a plus-size boutique where you’ve got to be “two-something to do something,” according to shop owner Summer Lucille.
To support: Shop online, in person at their Norlake Mall location, 6801 Northlake Mall Dr. and be one of Juicy Body Goddess’ 1.2M TikTok followers.
Go deeper: Got to be “two-something to do something” at this Charlotte boutique

Photo: Paige Hopkins/Axios
Kicks & Fros
Started in 2017 as a creative initiative to celebrate sneaker culture and the black and brown women in the space “who make it dope,” Kicks & Fros sells apparel items such as crewnecks and t-shirts, plus accessories like totes, mugs and sneaker laces.
The business recently announced they’ve leased a vintage airstream in Camp North End’s Boileryard District as its first office location.
To support: Shop their online collection and get updates on Instagram.
Kreativ Nail Supply
Stock up on everything you need to do your nails. The store has SNS powder, brushes, gems and more – plus, you don’t need a license to shop in-store.
To support: Head to their storefront at 9506 Monroe Road Suite D.
Mackins Bridal Boutique
The bridal shop is owned by the sister duo Tracie and Jennifer Mackins. They offer luxury bridal dresses that are size inclusive and all for under $2,000.
To support: Check out the weeding dresses and accessories at 2023 Beatties Ford Rd Suite 400.
Go deeper: New bridal boutique opens with affordable luxury wedding dresses in West Charlotte
Noite Rose
A luxury loungewear brand that aims to prove comfort and fashion can co-exist. Owner Diandra Harvin creates elevated comfy clothes, like rompers and sets that can be worn both indoors and out.
To support: Shop Noite Rose’s online collection and check out their Instagram for updates.
Go deeper: Luxury loungewear is in, says Charlotte woman making comfy clothes you can wear anywhere
Nostalgia Hollow Co.
A gift shop/coffee shop with two locations in Kannapolis. Though they are not physically in Charlotte, you can find them at Front Porch Sundays and Small Business Saturdays.
To support: Buy locally made gifts in their marketplace, and stop in to grab a cup of coffee and a Kronut by Sugarrmann. Find them on Facebook, for updates on events for the community.
Nyoni Couture
Owned by Nyoni Sioh, the luxury menswear retailer offers bespoke suits, tuxedos, shirts, shoes, and accessories. Sioh says custom suiting and made-to-order pieces are the shop’s specialty.
To support: You can shop online or in-store at 325 N. Graham St. from 11am to 7pm Monday through Saturday and from noon to 6pm on Sunday.
Pretty Honest Candles
Owned by Andrea Richter, Pretty Honest specializes in handmade, natural soy candles. Bestsellers include fresh coffee, green tea and lemongrass, eucalyptus spearmint, lavender, and honeysuckle jasmine.
To support: Shop online and follow Pretty Honest Candles on Instagram.
Pretty Perfect Style
Stylist and jewelry designer Monica Warren offers one-of-a-kind handmade bracelets and can up your fashion game. She also offers a variety of personal styling services.
To support: Shop online.

Photo courtesy Monica Warren
Public Interest CLT
This nostalgic thrift shop is owned by Josh Hallums and Jess McDonald, and it specializes in vintage apparel from the ’80s and ’90s.
To support: Shop online and check out their Instagram.
Rollin’ CLT
A skating rink and lounge providing skating experiences for families, couples and young adults at venues around Charlotte and at their rink near Sugar Creek.
To support: Visit their indoor skating rink at 500 W 32 St., and check out their full event lineup on Instagram.

Rendering courtesy of Brandi Fox/Rollin CLT
Shelves Bookstore
The pop-up independent bookstore owned by Abbigail “Abbi” Glen brings books to coffee shops and other small businesses such as Enderly Coffee, Sunflour Bakery and Pepperbox Doughnuts. Whatever she doesn’t have on hand, she can order for you.
To support: Order books online. You can shop Abbi’s favorites directly on the site, or you can send her your wishlist and she’ll order the books for you. And if you’re in a book club of five people or more, you’ll get 12% off your club’s books if you partner with Shelves.
Go deeper: How a 32-year-old former HR pro grew her retail business during Covid
The Brown Sugar Collab
Home, bath & body, hair and skincare products that are handmade or developed by minority women.
To support: Stop by their store at shops at the Winnifred or head to their website to shop their selection.

Photo: Symphony Webber/Axios
The Cocktailery
This shop, started by Tamu Curtis, sells everything you need to create an at-home bar setup.
To support: Shop in person at the Atherton Mill location or shop online for all of your at-home bar needs. You can also book virtual team-building cocktail classes.
Go deeper: Scoop: “Sur La Table of cocktails” opens this summer at Atherton Mill

Cocktailery owner Tamu Curtis. Axios file photo
The House of LeMond
This men’s boutique in NoDa sells clothing, home furnishings, barware and more.
To support: Shop in-store at 2300 North Davidson St.
Urban Reader Bookstore
The bookstore features more than 3,000 books — from children’s books to coloring books to biographies — mostly from Black authors.
To support: Shop online or participate in one of the store’s upcoming events. Their original University City location is temporarily closed but they’r ein the process of finding a new location.

Urban Reader Bookstore opened in University City in July 2021. Photo: Michael Graff/Axios
William Wilson Custom Clothier
Owner William Wilson is a private designer and EGOT tailor — meaning he’s designed clothing for the Oscars, Grammys, Emmys and TONY Awards. His business, William Wilson Custom Clothier, offers custom-made suits, shirts, trousers and overcoats based on each client’s individual needs and personal style.
To support: Visit his store in Myers Park at 811 Providence Road.
SERVICES
Arthurized Fitness
Certified fitness trainer Arthur Pulley offers personalized personal training to meet your fitness goals. You can book both one-one-one and small group sessions, along with in-home sessions.
To support: Book with Arthur online.
Arrow Staffing Solutions
The resume-writing service and staffing agency supports workers and companies at every level. The agency can help employers find talent and future employees find work. Services include mock interviews, career counseling, temporary staffing and permanent placement.
To support: Book a resume writing session before conducting your next job search. Or find talent through Arrow’s staffing services.
Black Boat Club
Couple Corinna DeWitt and Tarrence Dent started their boat rental company, Black Boat Club, in February 2021. BBC is anchored primarily on Lake Norman, but will also travel to Lake Wylie.
To support: Book your rental or sunset cruise online.
Go deeper: 7 boat rentals near Charlotte
Bubbly Pups NC
This full-service dog groomer offers haircuts, baths, dental care, de-shedding treatments and other services.
To support: Book a grooming appointment for your pup.
Charlotte Fit Studio
This boutique personal training studio offers customized workouts, nutrition coaching, assessments and monthly progress reports at their two locations, Charlotte Fit North (women-focused) and Charlotte Fit South.
To support: Get the details on both locations by visiting Charlotte Fit’s website.
Charlotte Quality Control
Charlotte Quality Control offers “auction-style” auto detailing for personal vehicles, fleets and dealerships.
To support: Book an appointment online and follow on Instagram.
Diamond Finish
The car wash and lube center offers oil changes, brake services and state inspections. Customers can get their car serviced and washed in the same visit.
To support: Call (704) 395-2155 to make an appointment or book a service online.
Diverse Community Partners
A tax preparation service owned by Joyce Saint-Cyr, who specializes in income tax filing, accounting and bookkeeping, business coaching and payroll.
To support: View their full list of services online or call them at 980-202-7283.
Dwell by Cheryl
Interior designer Cheryl Luckett will help you transform your home into a space where you can feel excited to return to.
To support: Fill out a contact form on her website to get started.
Go deeper: 7 Black Charlotte interior designers to support year-round

Photo courtesy Cheryl Luckett
FLO Hydration & Wellness Center
The pain management and wellness center offers services like IV Hydration therapy, mini-facials and Botox treatments.
To support: Book an appointment for the service of your choosing.
Indigo Pruitt Design Studio
Owner Marie Cloud’s design philosophy is to get to know her client’s passions and attributes in order to create soulful and curated spaces.
To support: Book a consultation for your next home project.

Photo by Amanda Anderson, courtesy of Marie Cloud
Isaiah Counseling and Wellness
This family-owned counseling and wellness practice provides counseling, massage, yoga and nutrition services to promote a better quality of life and break down stigmas of mental health in the Black community.
To support: Call (704) 910- 2055 to make an appointment to create a nutrition plan or talk to a counselor, or schedule online.
Lip N Pour
Create custom lip and make up products during a hour workshop.
To support: Book a class online before showing up to 1811 Sardis Road N., Suite 204.
Go deeper: Make your own lipstick at Lip N Pour in southeast Charlotte

Photo: Alexis Clinton/ Axios Charlotte
Lucky Spot Barbershop
Shaun “Lucky” Corbett opened Walmart’s first Black-owned, Black-operated barbershop back in 2019.
To support: Visit the barbershop at 3240 Wilkinson Boulevard and get a shape-up, haircut or shampoo, among other services. View the full service list here.
Go deeper A Charlotte man named Lucky just opened Walmart’s first Black-owned, Black-operated barbershop

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NC Dance District
The adult hip hop dance studio was founded by former Charlotte bobcats dance Ana Ogbueze and currently owned and operated by Kellye Hall.
To support: Bust a move by signing up for a class online or in person at 4109 Stuart Andrew Blvd A,
No Grease! Barbershop
Twin brothers Damian and Jermaine Johnson have built their lives around No Grease barbershop, and they’ve become a model for Black entrepreneurial success in Charlotte.
To support: Visit any of their eight locations in the Charlotte area. Or book an appointment online.
Go deeper: No Grease barbershop expands again, now with a franchisee who has big goals

No Grease! in action. Photo: Ashley Mahoney/Axios
Pop Up Datez
Have your next date night, girls’ night or birthday event in a luxury tent at the location of your choosing. Popup Datez uses temperature-controlled tents, furniture and decor to create the vibe you’re looking for. Tent options include the geo tent which can hold up to 12 people and their bubble tent which can fit up to four people.
To support: Book Pop Up Datez for your next special occasion. And follow their Instagram page.
Go deeper Charlotte startup Popup Datez is using temperature-controlled tents to become “the Uber of dates”
Quin Gwinn Studio
Quintel Gwinn is a full-service interior designer offering virtual design consultations and other online design packages.
To support: Hire her to redesign your home, and follow her Instagram for all the design inspo you’ve ever wanted.
REDDjobb
The full-service coaching and training firm specializes in everything from resume and cover letter writing, interview practice, and career mapping to C-level executive coaching, biographies and leadership workshops.
To support: Call (804) 678-8570 to inquire further about their services.
Skyview Dentistry
Located in Uptown, Skyview Dentistry offers a host of services including family care, cosmetic, restorative and laser dentistry.
To support: Call 704-610-5279 to make an appointment and learn about their services. Or book an appointment online.
SouthEnd Dentistry
Owner Dr. Bradford Picot and his staff offer a variety of general dentistry services including periodontal care, preventative care and same-day crowns.
To support: Book an appointment on their website.
The Sugar and Spice Party Bus specializes in unique celebrations for children ages 5-17, specializing in tea parties, spa parties and paint parties for any occasion.
To support: Book the Sugar and Spice Party Bus for all kinds of parties. See their party packages and book your spot on their website.
Symmetry Behavioral Health
Symmetry provides family support services to children, adolescents, adults and families.
To support: Contact Symmetry through their website or call 704-632-9900.
The Village Child Development Center, LLC
The Village is a family child care home that serves students between six weeks and 12 years old in a Spanish-English format.
To support: Consider making a contribution to The Village’s classroom wish list on Amazon.
The WashRoom Laundry Service
S.C. McNeill opened The WashRoom in February 2016. It’s a full-service dry cleaners, currently offering free contactless pickup and delivery in Charlotte and surrounding areas. They also offer commercial services to businesses with laundry needs.
To support: Schedule a laundry pickup here.
TNS Construction
Owner Tionn Nash specializes in all aspects/phases of construction, including commercial, residential and carpentry.
To support: Contact TNS Construction for projects relating to home remodeling and renovations.
Webber Dentistry
Webber Dentistry has been serving the Charlotte community since 1961 and offers services like general checkups, dental implants, restoration, cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening and orthodontic care.
To support: Call 704-392-9357 to book an appointment or schedule an appointment online.
Whitney’s Wittle Wonders
Owner Whitney Mitchell offers a range of spa treatments, from nail trims to fur dyes, for all dog breeds.
To support: Treat your pup to a spa day at 9009 J M Keynes Dr., Suite 11.
Go deeper: LaMelo Ball spoils his dog at Whitney’s Wittle Wonders in University City and you can, too

Photo: Courtesy of Whitney Mitchell
Wisdem USA
Founded by a Harvard Law School alum, Wisdem is an online business providing college admissions advising and college essay coaching.
To support: Sign your high school student up for essay coaching and follow Wisdem USA on Instagram.
More resources:
- Check out @cltblackowned on Instagram, which is committed to building a place “to support, highlight, and increase the visibility of our local black businesses and services.”
- QCity Metro has a list of Black-owned restaurants with takeout options as well as a business directory. CharlotteFive has a list of 100 Black-owned businesses, too.
- Charlotte also has three Black media outlets: The Charlotte Post, QCity Metro and Pride Magazine.
- You can also visit the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture in Uptown.