You’ve got to eat in 2025, and if you’re anything like Rich Auntie, you’re not messing up your perfectly manicured fingers doing dishes. Reservations are only a click away, and we’re making plenty in 2025 (as we have the time and means to do so!).
With a bag packed and stacked by the door for most of 2024, Rich Auntie found herself repeatedly in the three cities below, so she had time to track down a few fabulous locations where the food, ambiance and service come together for a divine experience. Dining out allows us to recharge and socialize with great friends while leaving the prep and clean-up to someone else. And much like EBONY Eats 45, we’re all about supporting Black-owned restaurants and chefs; some of my faves are also on this list. Bon Appetit!
New York City
Tatiana: We never turn down a chance to visit Tatiana. Located in Lincoln Center, it’s close to home and owned by 2024 EBONY Power 100 awardee and cover star Kwame Onwuachi. His blend of Afro-Caribbean flavors comes through every dish, from the Hamachi Escovitch and Braised Oxtails with rice & peas, Thumbelina Carrot and Chayote Squash to the Golden Rum Cake for dessert. Pull a seat up at the bar and sip on a Tatiana Tonic.
Beefbar: Satisfy your vegetarian and pescatarian side at this pristine establishment in Tribeca. The cauliflower steak and the steamed halibut are light and filling. And if you’re all about the meat, they have the finest Black Angus and Kobe beef as well. Beefbar becomes electric with live music in the later hours. Rich Auntie also loves experiencing Beefbar on Crystal, the first global cruise line to offer the restaurant’s concept at sea.
Miami
Red Rooster Overtown: Akino West is now running the kitchen inside the celebrated restaurant helmed by Marcus Samuelsson in Miami’s historic Black district. The baby-faced chef shared with Rich Auntie that he wanted to bring a Southern twist to the menu, and indeed, he had! His soulful additions like Guyanese Oxtail Pepper Pot and Sweet Potato Hummus vibe oh-so-nice with the establishment’s colorful decor and pumping soundtrack.
STK Steakhouse South Beach: Rich Auntie is all about the brunch, and few do it better than at “Yes, I’m here to be seen” STK Steakhouse South Beach on Collins Avenue. I tasted it all: the Lil’ Brgs made with Wagyu Beef topped with special sauce, the Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict, the Cinnamon French Toast with cream cheese icing and so much more. Wash it down with the Unchained Passion cocktail with Reàl Passion Fruit-infused syrup.
Avra Miami: On Sunny Isles Beach, just a few towns up the shore, you’ll delight in this floral-infused, ocean-adjacent venue that takes its seafood seriously. Every bite at Avra is heavenly, from its massive raw bar and fish entrees—try the Chilean Sea Bass—to its famed Zucchini and Eggplant Chips (served with a side of tzatziki) and delectable mocktails. Also, its traditional Greek and Mediterranean desserts, like the divine Olive Oil Cake, are baked daily.
Los Angeles
Post & Beam: Who doesn’t love a happy hour? At this Black-owned gem in Baldwin Hills, run by chef/owner John Cleveland, those few precious hours will make you feel like you’re with your besties—or you’ll make some new ones! For those avoiding carbs, try the Deviled Eggs with House-smoked Catfish. For those like Rich Auntie, who will just buy a new pair of pants sized up, dig into the Baked Mac n’ Cheese with herbed breadcrumbs.
De La Nonna: Here, it’s all about the elevated pizza. From meat options, like sausage or pepperoni, to the delicious Sicilian with capers, pine nuts, red onions and olives, there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy a slice. De La Noona also makes some of the best mocktails in the city, the Ruby Rosa Spritz being one of Rich Auntie’s favorites.
