Anthony Edwards Jr. and his wife Janique faced a common struggle when they moved to Brooklyn in 2016 – finding food that felt like home. The hunt for Black-owned restaurants in their neighborhood led them to discover a gap in resources. With Anthony’s background in computer science, they decided to take matters into their own hands and create a solution. This initiative gave birth to EatOkra, a mobile app dedicated to connecting users with nearby Black-owned eateries.
EatOkra’s journey is not just a success story but a beacon of hope for independent Black-owned restaurants across the United States. The app, named after the plant used in African diasporic dishes, now boasts 20,000 monthly active users and generated approximately $700,000 in revenue in 2024. The impact of EatOkra goes beyond mere numbers. It has become a vital platform for uplifting Black-owned businesses and professionals in the food industry.
Empowering Independent Restaurants
EatOkra’s platform offers users the ability to search for Black-owned restaurants, caterers, and food trucks based on keywords or proximity. With a database of around 20,000 businesses nationwide, users can access valuable information such as locations, user reviews, contact details, and online ordering options. Additionally, EatOkra’s marketplace extends to listing Black-owned food products, providing a holistic experience for consumers.
One of the key aspects of EatOkra’s business model is its tiered membership system. Businesses can opt for a free Lite option or a paid Plus subscription, offering enhanced features, online business courses, and increased visibility on the app for a minimal monthly fee. The Plus membership serves as a primary revenue driver for EatOkra, ensuring sustainability and growth.
Collaborations with industry giants like catering company ezCater and Pepsi Dig In have further solidified EatOkra’s presence in the market. By partnering with Apple Maps to curate local guides to Black-owned eateries, EatOkra continues to expand its reach while championing independent restaurants. The platform also provides valuable resources on marketing, supply chain management, and restaurant growth, empowering businesses to thrive in a competitive landscape.
Fostering a Food-Loving Network
In a similar vein, Black Foodie Finder, founded by Brax Rich, has emerged as a one-stop destination for all things food and beverage within the Black community. With 1.3 million Instagram followers and a thriving app ecosystem, Black Foodie Finder celebrates Black chefs, restaurants, and recipes, creating a vibrant network of food enthusiasts.
The app, boasting 75,000 active users and 15,000 restaurant listings, offers a seamless experience for users to discover nearby Black-owned eateries, connect with local chefs, and explore mouth-watering recipes. By shining a spotlight on the creative minds behind these businesses, Black Foodie Finder bridges the gap between consumers and culinary artisans, fostering a deeper appreciation for Black food culture.
Rich’s vision for Black Foodie Finder extends beyond digital platforms. The company’s BFF Cookout, a food festival held in Memphis, Tennessee, attracted 3,000 attendees in its inaugural event, featuring food vendors, musical performances, and family-friendly programming. The success of the cookout not only highlights the community’s appetite for such events but also underscores the importance of fair compensation and inclusivity in culinary celebrations.
As Black Foodie Finder looks to expand its media presence through short shows and video segments, Rich remains committed to providing a supportive ecosystem for businesses and individuals in the food space. By offering a platform for growth and recognition, Black Foodie Finder continues to make a meaningful impact on the culinary landscape, one dish at a time.
