Kansas City Welcomes KC Black Feast Week: A Celebration of Culinary Diversity
Kansas City is buzzing with excitement as it prepares for the very first KC Black Feast Week, running from October 1 to October 14. This new initiative, hosted by a dynamic youth-led organization, aims to highlight the incredible Black culinary talent in the city while also uplifting the local Black-owned businesses that contribute to the vibrant food scene. It’s a two-week dining adventure designed not just to tantalize taste buds but also to enrich the community.
Dining Options and Specials
Get ready for some delicious temptations, as participating restaurants will have special menus just for this occasion. For instance, you can look forward to sipping on $10 beer flights at Vine Street Brewing or munching on $13 Monster nacho and house lemonade at Deez Nachos. Whether you’re craving traditional dishes or something with a global twist, participants are offering a range of mouthwatering options that promise to please every palate.
The heart of this event is all about showcasing the amazing contributions that these Black-owned establishments provide to the community. In the words of the KC Black Feast Week website, “Kansas City, perhaps most known for our football team and BBQ, wields one of the most diverse cuisines and outstanding selections of Black-owned restaurants in the country.” Supporting these cherished spots not only enhances Kansas City’s cultural fabric but also helps them thrive in an ever-competitive market.
A Unique Approach: No Fees for Restaurants
One significant aspect of KC Black Feast Week is that restaurants are invited to participate without the burden of paying fees. Instead, they are encouraged to donate a portion of their profits to the community organization behind the event. These funds will go to the Ms. Willa campaign, aimed at preserving Willa’s Books & Vinyl, Missouri’s longest-standing Black bookstore. The bookstore is facing challenges due to gentrification, and community organizers have stepped in to ensure it remains a staple in the area.
As Ryan A. Sorrell, the founder of the community organization, explains, “We have been covering her rent for the past 3 months, we are currently volunteering to help operate the store, and we plan to inherit the store so she does not have to sell all of her first-edition historical artifacts and archival materials.” This commitment to supporting local businesses and preserving culture adds a heartfelt touch to the event.
A Culinary Journey
During KC Black Feast Week, food lovers will experience a culinary journey with an array of dining options. You can savor Nigerian dishes at Teetasty Foods, enjoy global creations at TC’s Fully Loaded, or grab a reliable neighborhood coffee at Kinship Cafe. Other noteworthy participants include Chef Smokey, District Biskuits, LC’s Bar-B-BQ, Mesob, and many more, each bringing their unique flavors to the table.
Support Black-Owned Restaurants Year-Round
While KC Black Feast Week offers an exciting opportunity to explore new dining options, it’s just the beginning. Ryan A. Sorrell encourages foodies to support Black-owned restaurants throughout the year by trying out at least one new spot each month. This simple gesture can create waves of change by giving visibility to the hardworking chefs and owners who deserve recognition and support.
Kicking Off the Celebration
The festivities kick off on October 1 at District Fish & Pasta House with a special event called the People’s Food Buyout. The first 100 Black mothers and families who attend will receive free meals courtesy of the Kansas City Defender, setting an uplifting tone for the two-week food celebration.
So mark your calendars, gather your friends, and prepare to indulge in the culinary treasures Kansas City has to offer during this inaugural week. Let’s come together to eat, support local businesses, and celebrate the rich diversity that makes our city a food lover’s paradise!
