The names Hercules Posey, James Hemming John Dabney and Edna Lewis have two things in common; all are native Virginians and each of them helped to define the American culinary arts by weaving African cooking techniques and ingredients into an otherwise European focused palate. From enslavement to modern day times, these celebrity chefs were sought out for their infamous dishes such as the macaroni pie that James Hemmings made for Thomas Jefferson’s family and guests at Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia. Today, this side dish is recognized as “mac and cheese” and be can be found at barbecues and family reunions throughout the country. Achievements such as these are constant reminders of the imprint that Black creativity and ingenuity has seared into American culture.
The foundational platform that these culinary artists have set can be realized in the Northern Virginia Black restaurant scene. The Northern Virginian region or more affectionately known as NoVa encompasses five counties and six independent cities. Intertwined in that landscape are an abundance of Black owned restaurants that range from bakeries to fine dining establishments.
The five restaurants listed in this roundup are places that I found myself continuously going to for their drool worthy delicacies that I can’t get enough of. So, buckle up and get your taste buds ready for this culinary adventure through NoVa.
1. Queen Mother’s in Arlington
Queen Mother’s is located in the National Landing neighborhood of the city and is spearheaded by the nationally recognized celebrity chef, Rock Harper. The non-additive premium chicken sandwiches are served in a variety of options and at the top of that list is the crowd-pleasing Virginia honey butter chicken sandwich ($15). The butter is generously drizzled over the entirety of the fried chicken breast allowing for the remaining butter to gloss over the locally crafted artisanal bun. Round out your meal by ordering the French fries ($5) that are cooked in duck fat. This may be the only time that you don’t need ketchup to enhance the taste.
2. Ruby’s Jamaican in Alexandria
With Jamaican food, it all comes down to the jerk sauce and Ruby’s Jamaican in Alexandria has something special that always has my taste buds singing. The namesake of the restaurant entered the culinary space as a caterer and due to the high demand and popularity it was only a matter of time before a permanent location was needed. The menu at Ruby’s is massive and showcases recognizable dishes such as curry goat and ackee & saltfish. The jerk ribs are only available only on Fridays and Saturdays, and sell out quickly each and every time. Entrée platters range from $11.50 – $28 and come with 2-3 sides depending if you’re ordering lunch or dinner.
3. Preservation Biscuit Company in Falls Church
There is no other food staple that defines the South than a buttermilk biscuit. The fluffy layered concoction can easily be served as a snack or full-blown meal and Preservation Biscuit Company is creating some unforgettable savory and sweet treats. The freshly made biscuits are cleverly named to entice your tastebuds of what to expect and the biscuit that always wins my vote is the Goodness Gracious. Stacked with roasted pulled pork, coleslaw, pickled red onions and covered in their house made BBQ sauce, this is one dish that keeps me full all day. The biscuits are reasonably priced from $8-$13.
4. The Pie Gourmet in Vienna
When a dessert decision has to be made, pie is always at the top of the list. The Pie Gourmet has been in existence since 1988 and they pride themselves on making homemade pies and baked goods from scratch every day from their location in a quaint shopping center in Vienna. The pies are made without any artificial flavoring or preservatives and locally grown apples are sourced to make their craveable French apple pies. A winning combination is the key lime pie ($27.95) that is generously piled with cream and packed with citrus flavor. Locals can purchase these delicacies as a whole or by the slice allowing you the opportunity to try different options. Nationwide shipping is also available for those who have a craving for a homemade pie.
5. Rumulations in Manassas
One bite of these rum cakes invokes sensations of ocean breezes and Caribbean vibes. The veteran owned business’s foundation is built on the owner’s grandmother’s recipe. Rumalutions enhances the traditional rum cake by adding ingredients that you would not expect such as German chocolate ($22.50) and Irish Cream Pistachio ($17). Depending on your appetite you can order a small, medium or large rum cake. Don’t skip the grape nut cereal ice cream that pairs perfectly with the cake.
Looking for more Black Owned Businesses? Check out these other recommendations from BTA here.
Shenise Foster is a proud member of the Black Travel Alliance, freelance writer and owner of the LLC, The Munch Travelogue where she documents her travels by creating travel guides centered around her motto of learn, see, do. Readers can keep up with Shenise’s adventures by following her on Instagram, Facebook and on her website.
