A guide to Black-owned businesses in Syracuse

A guide to Black-owned businesses in Syracuse

From a vegan eatery to a hair salon, check out these local shops and restaurants.
Published: February 24, 2023

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the richness and dynamism of Black culture and all that it encompasses — the innovation, the music, the style. However, it’s also a time for reflection as we look back at the overcoming of hardship and struggle that characterizes both Black history and the present day Black experience.

An easy way to show your support for a community that has long been affected by institutionalized racism and oppression is to buy from Black-owned businesses. And luckily you don’t have to look too far– Syracuse is home to many businesses owned by Black entrepreneurs that you can support, during Black History Month and hereafter.

Miss Prissy’s @missprissy_d

Miss Prissy’s is an American Soul Food restaurant with dine-in, takeout and catering services that just recently celebrated its second anniversary of providing the greater Syracuse area with food that’s “good for the soul.” Don’t let Miss Prissy’s novelty fool you– years of experience have gone into owner Dreamer Glen’s multigenerational passion for delivering superior service and stellar eats. With food ranging from creamy Macaroni and Cheese to Boneless Honey Hennessy Wings, you have to pay Miss Prissy’s a visit.

Miss Prissy's at the Salt City Market in downtown Syracuse.
Miss Prissy's, located at Salt City Market, celebrates its second anniversary.

The Divine Den (@thedv9den)

Rough hair day? Gabrielle Lloyd, owner of The Divine Den has got you covered! Her services range from natural hair care, to hair braiding, to lash and brow extensions. With a tagline like “Serving Goddesses Daily,” you know she’s bound to have you looking great. Beyond her hair services, Lloyd also uses The Divine Den as a way of connecting with the greater Syracuse community. She just recently visited Syracuse University for the Black History Month Committee’s State of the Black Hair Experience showcase. She also offers one-on-one hair braiding classes for those who want to sharpen their skills.

Crave Desserts Studio (@cravedessertsstudio)

What originally started out as a hobby for owner Tykemia Carman quickly became the Central New York phenomenon that is Crave Desserts Studio. Known for their specialty “Crave Cups”, Crave offers customized cake pops, cake balls, mini cheesecakes, and macarons – among others – in a variety of flavors. Crave has all of your sweet treat catering needs covered!

Experience the Love (@experiencethe_love)

In need of a little retail therapy? Make sure to stop by Experience the Love, a Black-owned boutique that has everything you need to look your best. Experience the Love has a wide selection of must-have shoes, clothing, jewelry and accessories– all at great prices! Despite having opened in January of 2020, right before the pandemic, the boutique continues to be a source of fashion and apparel for the community.

“It’s very important that you center the business around the customer, and also give them a bit of you,” said Tiara Love, the shop’s owner.

Be sure to check out all the boutique has to offer, either online or at its location on S Salina St.

Interior of Experience the Love clothing store in downtown Syracuse.

Hats, shirts and shoes on display at Experience the Love clothing store in Syracuse.

Razzle Dazzle “Our Vegan Corner

Razzle Dazzle “Our Vegan Corner” is a vegan soul food restaurant, founded by owners Rev. Curtis and Maggie Levy– you’ve got to love a business power couple! What’s great about Razzle Dazzle is that its proceeds support the Levys’ ministry, Last House on the Block Ministries, Inc., which works to help house people navigating substance abuse, mental health struggles, domestic violence and incarceration. Good food for a great cause? That’s more than enough reasons to head down to Razzle Dazzle “Our Vegan Corner” for a bite!