Discover How Two Apps Link Black-Owned Restaurants with New Diners

Here's how two apps connect Black-owned restaurants with new customers

Discover the Rising Stars of Black-Owned Food Businesses: EatOkra and Black Foodie Finder

In a culinary landscape where flavor and culture can sometimes feel disconnected, two remarkable platforms are bridging the gap, making it easier for food lovers to discover Black-owned restaurants and culinary creatives. Meet EatOkra and Black Foodie Finder—two innovative apps that are not just fostering a sense of community but also reviving and promoting Black food culture like never before.

The Journey of EatOkra: A Tech-Savvy Solution to a Personal Need

The inception of EatOkra was born from a personal struggle. Co-founders Anthony Edwards Jr. and his wife, Janique, moved to Brooklyn in 2016 only to find that locating restaurants that represented their culture was a daunting task. Drawing on his computer science background, Anthony created this mobile app to provide a much-needed resource—an easy way for users to discover nearby Black-owned eateries.

Fast forward to today, EatOkra boasts 20,000 monthly active users and has generated approximately $700,000 in revenue for 2024. This remarkable growth is a testament to the app’s unique ability to connect consumers with a wealth of options that reflect their culinary preferences.

As Anthony states, "Upon launching, we received overwhelming feedback from users expressing they had long been searching for an app like this." It’s clear that EatOkra is filling a crucial void in the market.

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Features That Set EatOkra Apart

The EatOkra app does more than just list restaurants; it offers comprehensive features, including:

  • Search Filters: Users can find Black-owned restaurants, caterers, and food trucks based on various keywords or proximity.
  • Diverse Database: Currently, the app includes information on about 20,000 businesses across the U.S., complete with user reviews, contact details, and online ordering options.
  • Business Support: EatOkra provides resources on vital topics such as marketing and supply chain management to help these independent restaurateurs thrive.

EatOkra’s collaboration with companies like Pepsi Dig In and Apple Maps further enhances its visibility and outreach, proving that it’s not just a trend but a vital part of the culinary community.

Spotlight on Black Foodie Finder: A Culinary Community at Its Core

In a similar vein, Black Foodie Finder is elevating Black-owned culinary businesses through its multi-faceted platform. Launched by Brax Rich during the COVID-19 pandemic, this app originally started as a social media initiative but has since blossomed into a go-to resource with 1.3 million Instagram followers and 75,000 active users. The Black Foodie Finder app showcases over 15,000 restaurant listings and highlights local chefs and recipes, creating a rich narrative around Black cuisine.

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Uniqueness of Black Foodie Finder

Black Foodie Finder serves a crucial role in community building and cultural promotion by focusing on:

  • Connecting People: Users can explore local chefs, their stories, and the food they’re passionate about, fostering a deeper connection with businesses.
  • Festivals and Events: With the inaugural BFF Cookout bringing together thousands, the company aims to expand this community event into a national celebration, highlighting the joy of Black culinary arts.
  • Media Expansion: Plans to develop short shows and video segments will further enhance visibility for Black-owned establishments, distributing their stories beyond local communities.

Brax emphasizes, "We are building that support system. Many talented individuals simply lack the platforms to showcase their culinary expertise, and that’s where we step in."

Embracing Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Both EatOkra and Black Foodie Finder are navigating a complex landscape of challenges, including fluctuating food prices, competition, and the need for continued engagement from consumers. Yet, as noted by Jason Wallace, director of business solutions at EatOkra, the commitment to uplift these independent restaurants remains resolute.

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In an era characterized by a growing acknowledgment of Black culinary contributions—fueled by influential figures like chef Kwame Onwuachi and educational content like Netflix’s "High on the Hog"—the need for representation in the food industry is more vital than ever.

Conclusion: A Culinary Renaissance

Here at Extreme Investor Network, we are excited to witness the profound impact of EatOkra and Black Foodie Finder on the Black food community. Through innovative technology and a unified commitment to cultural celebration, these platforms are shaping a new culinary narrative that empowers independent restaurateurs and enriches the dining experiences of their patrons.

For food lovers and investors alike, supporting these platforms means participating in a larger movement—one that acknowledges the rich history and ongoing contributions of Black entrepreneurs in the culinary space. Join us as we indulge in this delicious journey of discovery, representation, and community upliftment!