Black History Month Playbook

February 1 Trailblazer’s Celebration of Black History

February 1 – March 1  African Film Festival

February 20-23 NW Black Comedy Festival

February 20- March 1 Biamp Portland Jazz Festival

Eat & Drink

Offering some of the city’s most delicious eats, the black-owned community of entrepreneurs and restaurateurs is at the heart of what makes our region’s food scene awesome and unique. Dive into this curated list, explore their offerings, and discover new favorites! 

Abby Creek Winery
In 2008 Bertony Faustin became the 1st recorded black winemaker in Oregon. With so many entering the industry to become a renowned wine maker Bertony had bigger plans. He saw his opportunity to build a platform that would allow him to change the world. Reservations recommended/Same day walk-ins accepted if space is available  

Akadi
Owned by Chef Fatou Ouattara, Akadi specializes in West African cuisine, featuring dishes from Burkina Faso and the Ivory Coast. The menu includes fried plantains, plantain fufu, and various stews, providing an authentic taste of West Africa. 

Assembly Brewing
Co-founded by George Johnson, Assembly Brewing is Oregon’s first Black-owned brewery. Located in the Mt. Scott-Arleta neighborhood, it offers Detroit-style pizza, sandwiches, and house-brewed beers in a spacious setting adorned with unique murals.

Atlas Pizza
With 1 NoPo location and 2 in SE, you can get your pizza fix and know you’re supporting a Black-owned business. 

Cason’s Fine Meats
Situated in the Alberta Commons, this butcher shop offers a variety of fresh and smoked meats, along with daily specials like fish tacos and fried chicken. Owner Theotis “Uncle Theo” Cason emphasizes community connection and quality products. 

Chosen Family Wines
Passion project founded by former NBA champion Channing Frye. With a focus on collaboration, community, and exceptional winemaking, Chosen Family partners with top-tier producers to craft high-quality, small-batch wines. More than just a label, it’s a celebration of shared experiences—because great wine is best enjoyed with your chosen family.

DB Dessert Company
Since its launch in 2018, DB Dessert Company has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of locals with its stunning cupcakes and intricately crafted celebration cakes. Known for its dedication to excellence, DB Dessert Company specializes in creating premium-quality desserts, pastries, and custom cakes that bring joy to every occasion.

Deadstock Coffee
Founded by Ian Williams, Deadstock Coffee is a sneaker-themed café located in Old Town Chinatown. Known for its “snob-free” approach, it offers creatively named drinks like the “Steph Curry” (white chocolate mocha) and the “Lebronald Palmer” (a mix of coffee, sweet tea, and lemonade). 

Dot’s Cafe
Dots Cafe strikes the perfect balance between a cozy American diner and a lively late-night dive bar. Owners Johnny Ricci and Eli Johnson joined forces to create a vibrant spot where brunch lovers and bar enthusiasts alike can feel at home. Known for its affordable drinks, upbeat vibe, and delicious vegan-friendly menu, Dots has become a beloved gem in the heart of the Clinton Street neighborhood.  

Horn of Africa
Mohamed and Khadija invite you to experience the vibrant flavors and wholesome dishes of the Horn of Africa. At their restaurant, you’ll discover authentic recipes inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti, and the Middle East, each bursting with fresh ingredients and bold tastes. 

Kann
The brainchild of celebrated chef Gregory Gourdet, is far from your ordinary dining experience. This Portland hotspot brings the vibrant flavors of Haiti to life, blending traditional island cuisine with modern techniques and a deep commitment to sustainability. With a rotating menu of bold, heartfelt dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere, Kann offers a culinary journey that’s as exciting as it is memorable.  

Kee’s Loaded Kitchen
Owned by Kiauna “Kee” Nelson, this soul food restaurant is renowned for its generous portions and flavorful dishes, including smoked brisket, fried catfish, and loaded baked potatoes. Kee’s Loaded Kitchen has been featured on Netflix’s “Street Food” series.

NE Creperie
NE Creperie was founded in August 2013 by Philip Wafula and Marlene Holiday with a vision to serve hearty, health-conscious meals without sacrificing flavor or freshness. Originally launched from a humble food cart, the business has grown into a mobile food truck that brings delicious crepes to events and locations on demand.  

Nacheaux
Created by dynamic husband-and-wife duo Anthony and Stephanie Brown, this isn’t your typical food cart—it’s a mobile powerhouse of flavor, serving up the ultimate Cajun-Southern fusion. With a rotating menu full of bold and exciting dishes, every visit is a fresh and delicious adventure. Always on the go, finding us is like a treasure hunt for your taste buds!

Olive or Twist
Known for its creative craft cocktails, welcoming atmosphere, and lively ambiance. Located in the Pearl District, it’s the perfect spot for an evening out, offering expertly mixed drinks, delicious small plates, and a stylish setting that makes every visit memorable. Whether you’re meeting friends or enjoying a date night, Olive or Twist delivers a classic Portland vibe with a twist.  

Po’Shines Cafe De La Soul
A beloved establishment offering Southern comfort food, including crispy catfish and hearty gumbo. Beyond its delectable menu, Po’Shines is committed to community upliftment through workforce training programs. 

Hope you and your taste buds enjoy!

Oregon Historical Society exhibits and archives highlighting the stories of Black pioneers, civil rights struggles, and ongoing efforts for equity in Oregon. 

Oregon Black Pioneers uncovers and shares the untold stories of Oregon’s early Black residents, showcasing their contributions and resilience through exhibits and events. 

Oregon Remembrance Project Dedicated to addressing Oregon’s history of racial injustice, this project builds memorials, hosts events, and sparks conversations about reconciliation and equality. 

Third Eye Books Portland’s Black-owned bookstore offers African-centered literature, empowering resources, and works by Black authors, fostering cultural connection and community. 

Albina Soul Walk in Portland

Portland has many Black-history sites, but none as musical as the historic Black neighborhood of Albina. Visitors can download the Albina Soul Walk app for a 1-mile self-guided walking tour curated by the Albina Music Trust that highlights the 1960s–1980s era when Albina was nicknamed the Soul District. During this time, numerous Black musicians who were excluded from Portland clubs brought jazz, blues, soul, disco, and gospel to life in the streets.

Heritage and Black History Walking Tour in Astoria

Take a walkiing tour to learn about the violence and discrimination that separated Black, Indigenous and other minority communities is depicted in honest detail. 

Ben Johnson Mountain in Jacksonville

Named after a 19th-century Black blacksmith, Ben Johnson Mountain commemorates one of Oregon’s early Black pioneers. Hike the 1.1-mile trail at Cantrall Buckley Park to enjoy stunning views of the Rogue Valley.

Alonzo Tucker Memorial in Coos Bay

Honoring Alonzo Tucker, a victim of Oregon’s only recorded lynching, this memorial at the Coos History Museum reflects on past injustices and encourages dialogue on equality.

Walking Tour of Eugene’s First Black Neighborhood

Five distinct tour routes to explore via a guided narrative that highlights the resilience and perseverance of Black residents who navigated the challenges posed by Oregon’s exclusion laws and other systemic racial injustices throughout history. 

Let’s use this month as a launchpad for something bigger: honoring the past while shaping a future where everyone has the space to thrive. The journey starts here!