New York City’s restaurant scene was buzzing with energy this February, and we’re here to guide you through the best dining experiences happening right now. The city’s Black and Brown-owned establishments are setting the standard for what dining should be: bold, authentic and rooted in community. Whether you’re craving jerk chicken or modern takes on classic comfort food, these restaurants represent the best of what NYC has to offer this month.

But the Big Apple is just the beginning. We’re very excited to announce that we’re expanding our coverage to include must-visit dining destinations in Washington DC, Atlanta, Houston and more cities across the U.S. Our mission is to celebrate and elevate the incredible Black and Brown-owned restaurants that are the heartbeat of their communities, serving food that tells stories, honors heritage and pushes boundaries. From coast to coast, we’re committed to bringing you comprehensive guides to the restaurants that matter most in our communities, bringing you all the best and must-try places in our respective areas.

In the meantime, let’s get into February’s top restaurant picks for New York.

Must-Try New York City Restaurants:

Kabawa

Located in East Village, Kabawa brings the flavors of Caribbean cuisine to New York with a modern, approachable twist. This restaurant has quickly become a destination for those seeking regional specialties prepared with both traditional techniques and contemporary flair. You also cannot go and not try the hibiscus daiquiri, along with other offerings on the drink menu.

Hav & Mar

Founded by Ethiopian-born, Swedish-American Chef Marcus Samuelsson, the restaurant’s name—a play on “have and more”—perfectly captures its generous spirit and abundant flavors. From perfectly seasoned seafood dishes to inventive takes on classic island fare, Hav & Mar delivers an experience that feels both familiar and fresh.

Dept of Culture

This supper-club restaurant experience, founded by Chef Ayo Balogun,  focuses on Nigerian cuisine, with dishes that feed the desire of those from the Diaspora while showcasing sophisticated technique and presentation. The menu changes seasonally and is “BYOB,” but you can always expect bold flavors, generous portions, and a warm welcome.

Kokomo Restaurant & Lounge

Kokomo Restaurant & Lounge brings the spirit of the Caribbean to Williamsburg with an atmosphere that’s equal parts sophisticated and laid-back. The menu features Caribbean classics with modern presentations—think oxtail, curry goat, and escovitch fish prepared with attention to detail and served in a stylish setting. Whether you’re coming for dinner or staying for the DJ sets and dancing, Kokomo delivers an immersive experience that captures the energy of island culture.

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