A great way to celebrate Black History Month is to shop local and support Black business owners. Historically, Black business owners have faced systemic oppression and obstacles. They deserve our support every day and play a vital role in the local community. There are lots of great restaurants and small businesses in the Liberty and Kansas City area that offer a variety of products to locals. By shopping at Black-owned businesses this month, you might just find your new favorite stores.
Ruby Jean’s Juicery
Ruby Jean’s Juicery was created with a passion for health and longevity. They serve healthy beverages and snacks in a relaxing and inclusive environment. On the menu, they have handcrafted juice, smoothies, performance shakes and made-to-order lunch and breakfast items. You can visit the website here.
Wingz & More Liberty
Wingz & More is located in the historic Liberty Square. They serve wings, burgers, fish and more. They have a variety of menu items and dessert items. You can visit the website here.
Soirée Steak & Oyster House
Soirée serves Southern-inspired, handcrafted cuisine such as oysters, steaks and cocktails. It is located in the 18th & Vine District and features live jazz music on Sunday nights. You can find the website here.
Jones BBQ
Famously featured on the Netflix show Queer Eye, Jones BBQ serves delicious barbecued food from homemade sausages to entire racks of ribs. Jones BBQ has been featured in The Wallstreet Journal, Refinery29 and Woman’s Day. The founders, Deborah “Little” and Mary “Shorty” Jones, are important business figures in the Kansas City area. You can visit the website here.
Kaleidoscoops Ice Cream
Kaleidoscoops Ice Cream serves waffle bowls and homemade ice cream flavors in Kansas City. Their mission is to provide an enjoyable experience to the community through the different flavors of life. You can find the website here.
The Blue Room
The Blue Room is a local jazz venue where you can enjoy music in the 18th & Vine District. It provides a platform for the best local and national jazz talent in an intimate environment. You can visit the website here.
Bliss Books & Wine KC
Bliss Books & Wine KC is a local bookstore for wine enthusiasts. Their mission is to provide an environment for enjoying wine, books, and conversation. Due to COVID-19 they are currently only based online but have a storefront coming soon in 2022. You can visit the website here.
Soul Rebels Jewelry
Lashon Mack is the local artist and jewelry designer behind the Soul Rebels Jewelry. They make various bead, stone, wire and leather jewelry for men and women with an Afrocentric vibe. The beautiful jewelry has been worn by many celebrities. You can visit the website here.
Calming Canvas
Calming Canvas specializes in private art parties and the owner, Nikita, is a self-taught visual artist from Kansas City. There are lots of party options for a girls night in, couples night, team building, and kids’ parties. You can visit the website here.
Harvest Moon Women’s Collective
Harvest Moon Women’s Collective is a holistic self-care shop that offers a wide selection of all-natural, non-toxic body products and services. Within the collective, there are over 10 different artisans and service providers. They sell handmade products including loose herbs, body oils and tinctures. You can visit the website here.