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This article is a feature shared by VisitPhiladelphia (visitphilly.com) that captures many of the Black businesses in the Philadelphia area. This article does not include all Black Businesses in Philadelphia; however, we believe it is a good start, because it provides a visual perspective of just how many Black Philadelphians have taken that “Leap” and are running their own busi- ness. Also, please note that this list contains many businesses, and, as such, this print publication is sharing just a segment of the businesses that VisitPhiladelphia featured. If you would like to read the entire listing, please read its entirety on scoopnew- susa.com or the VisitPhilly.com web- site.
PHILADELPHIA, August 7, 2023 –August marks National Black Business Month, and here in Philadelphia, there are many ways to support the Black-owned business community — this month and every one after. The city takes pride in its vibrant Black-owned
business scene, offering hundreds of unique spots for visitors checking out the town, restaurant-goers, and Philly shoppers picking up everyday wares.
Here in Philadelphia, you’ll find an array of Black- owned and-Operated shops, boutiques, and bookstores dotting the streets from Manayunk to East Passyunk Avenue. Many of these shops and restaurants are small, independently owned, or family-operated businesses that reflect the city’s diversity and commitment to fostering minority-owned enterprises.
Meanwhile, Black-owned restaurants, cafes, and bakeries are the lifeblood of Philly’s diverse hospitality scene, adding dynamic flavors and one-of-a-kind flair to an ever-growing repertoire of culinary hotspots.
Also buzzworthy this month: local Black- and – woman-owned clothing brand Philadelphia Printworks hits racks at 400 Target stores nationwide.
Read on for a curated list of just some of the city’s standout Black-owned businesses. Black-Owned Shops and Boutiques in Greater Philadelphia Black-owned spas, boutiques, bookstores, and more…
Bookstores
Atomic City Comics—Owned by Michael Yates and Darryl Jones, this classic comic book store, known for its wide selection of comics, graphic novels, manga, back issues, horror, sci-fi, and old-school arcade games such as Street Fighter, has been a South Street mainstay since 2001. Where: Atomic City Comics, 638 South Street
Black and Nobel—More than a bookstore, this cultural center owned by Hakim Hopkins offers DVDs and an array of health and wellness products in a creative atmosphere. The shop also ships to prisons, offering incarcerated folks reading materials. Where: Black and Nobel, 422 South Street
Hakim’s Bookstore & Gift Shop—One of the country’s oldest Black-owned bookstores — now an official historic site — resides at the same West Philly address where Dawud Hakim founded it more than 60 years ago. Historic, welcoming, old-school, and family-friendly. The shop now belongs to Hakim’s daughter, Yvonne Blake. Where: Hakim’s Bookstore & Gift Shop, 210 S.52nd Street
Harriett’s Bookshop—This welcoming, Fishtown-based, women- centric, art- and activism-forward, frankincense-scented, named-for- Harriet Tubman bookstore is owned by Jeannine A. Cook, who opened it in February 2020. On its shelves: Toni Morrison’s complete collection, works by Zora Neale Hurston, children’s books, and more titles that Cook herself loves to read. Where: Harriett’s Bookshop, 258 E. Girard Avenue
Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books—Owner Marc Lamont Hill’s Germantown hangout exudes community pride in its book selection and living-room vibe, a la Washington D.C.’s acclaimed Busboys and Poets chain. This bibliophile’s spot takes its name from the columnist and Temple University prof’s favorite uncle, who nurtured his love of reading. Where: Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books, 5445 Germantown Avenue
Boutiques & Retail Shops
Blk Ivy Thrift—The latest project by Grant Blvd’s own Kimberly McGlonn, Blk Ivy Thrift calls back to the work and aesthetic of the Civil Rights Movement, combining community engagement and activism with cultural artifacts and fashion. The West Philly shop curates vintage and second hand clothing that challenges industry norms. Where: Blk Ivy Thrift, 3605 Lancaster Avenue
Common Ground—This Midtown Village consigner owned by Phillip Moore offers exclusive collectible sneakers and vintage pieces — Adidas x Bad Bunny, retro Air Jordans — and features rare, sold-out merch from prominent sportswear brands like Supreme and Bape. Where: Common Ground, 134 S. 11th Street
Damari—Former Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins founded this men’s boutique to redefine modern custom suiting with creativity, styling, and precise tailoring — all while keeping culture at the forefront. The shop stocks men’s suits, jackets, and sweats, along with custom suits and pocket squares. They’re open by appointment only or online at any time. Where: Damari, 72 N. 2nd Street
Dolly’s Boutique & Consignment—The stylish set loves that this shop — owned by Shani Newton — carries women’s clothing for all sizes (small through triple extra-large), ages, and budgets. On the racks: pant sets, stylish separates, maxi dresses, and on-point accessories. Where: Dolly’s Boutique & Consignment, 6778 Germantown Avenue
Grant Blvd—When she started her line of women’s clothing and accessories in 2017, Kimberly McGlonn prioritized three things: sourcing reclaimed fabrics, manufacturing exclusively in Philadelphia, and supporting incarcerated and returning citizens. And she’s just as committed to that mission today. With a new flagship in University City, devotees of the shop can score fashion- forward skirt and crop top sets, denim, dresses, and men’s clothing. Where: Grant Blvd, 140 S. 34th Street
Kylie Rose Fashions—A self-taught seamstress, Shae- lia Dawkins creates high-end formal and prom dresses as well as streetwear, like tracksuits, T-shirts, and hoodies for men and women. Covering both ends of the style spectrum, Kylie Rose Fashions carries attire for red carpets and lazy weekends alike. Where: Kylie Rose Fashion, 506 Main Street, Darby
Love Yourself by Shea Elizabeth—Across the street from West Philadelphia’s Malcolm X Park, Love Yourself by Shea Elizabeth is a chic boutique that helps women create their own definition of cool with a great selection of shoes, jackets, dresses, jumpsuits, and more. Where: Love Yourself by Shea Elizabeth, 503 S. 52nd Street
Moore Vintage Archive—Fresh on the Fabric Row scene, Moore Vintage Archive is the place where you can find vintage Chanel, Gucci, Hermes, and more women’s designer fashion. Owner Keesean Moore stocks the shop with timeless dresses, jackets, sets, and books from Black authors. Where: Moore Vintage Archive, 725 S. 4th Street
Founded by friends (and former business competitors) Aaron Johnson and Bruce Tabbs, The Movement Philly specializes in handmade clothing, T-shirts, tie-dye, jewelry, and vegan bath and beauty products. The Mt. Airy shop was featured in a “Buying Black” segment on Philly’s Fox 29 TV station in 2020. Where: The Movement Philly, 7133 Germantown Avenue
Retro Rewind Vintage & Thrift, After operating as a mobile boutique, Retro Rewind Vintage & Thrift opened a brick-and-mortar in Brewerytown (you can’t miss its neon yellow facade). Founded by Tia Whitfield, the shop stocks both women’s and men’s fashions, from blazers and dresses to denim and T-shirts. Where: Retro Rewind Vintage & Thrift, 2804 W. Girard Avenue
Senoj Clothing, This South Street boutique is owned by Charrita Jones, who curates the shop’s collection of “effortlessly chic” women’s apparel. The vibe at Senoj is all about empowering women to be comfortable in their own skin. The shop offers all kinds of looks, from bodysuits and outerwear to skirts, dresses and sun-Glasses. Where: Senoj Clothing, 1609 South Street
Accessories
Blue Sole Shoes, Owner Steve Jamison, a fashion footwear specialist, established his sunny Rittenhouse Square boutique in 2007 to cater to high-end tastes in men’s shoes, socks, and accessories — and to provide high-quality customer service. Among the designers in stock: Harris, Magnanni, John Galliano, and Les Hommes. Where: Blue Sole Shoes, 1805 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia Diamond Company, Custom engagement and wedding rings, one-of-a-kind pieces, and gemologist-certified appraisals are the reason clients call ahead to book appointments at this Old City jewelry shop owned by Ken and Nicole Black. Where: Philadelphia Diamond Company, 421 Chestnut Street
Style by Blain, With a showroom featuring a pool table, elegant wooden side tables, and a beautiful fireplace to display his unique selection of shoes, owner Voltaire Blain — known as the best-dressed man in Chestnut Hill — strives to make shopping for shoes an experience like no other. His shop carries a wide selection of hard-to-find shoes, including loafers, oxfords, and both high- and low-cut boots for men, as well as several styles for women. Where: Style by Blain, 8433 Germantown Avenue
Lifestyle
Amazulu Collections, For more than 30 years, this Reading Terminal Market stall has served as a location for silversmith Charita Powell to showcase her hand- made jewelry. For sale: lamps, dolls, sculptures, and cultural clothing, including Powell’s vibrant pieces from her Urban Karma Wear line. Where: Amazulu Collections, Reading Terminal Market, 51 N. 12th Street
Black Soul Vintage, This Germantown-based second- hand shop — open by appointment only — features Black texts, ephemera, art, and home goods that inspire an Afro-centric lifestyle, curated by owner Tomarra Sankara-Kilombo. In addition to vintage books, visitors can pick up vinyl records and clothing, too. Where: Black Soul Vintage, 90 Church Lane
Ceramic Concept, Opened in November 2020, this West Philly store showcases pieces by more than 50 national and international artists and makers, including works by owner Stefani Threet, all in a modern, minimalist-styled space. Where: Ceramic Concept, 5015 Baltimore Avenue
De’Village, Stone and wooden jewelry, artwork, fabric, sculptures, and more from Kenya, Ghana, and Nigeria are on offer at this Reading Terminal Market stand owned by Watson and Joycelyn Parks. Where: De’Village, Reading Terminal Market, 51 N. 12th Street
Little Marrakesh Bazaar, Showcasing the goods of owner Chakir Bouchaid’s home country, Little Marrakesh Bazaar is Reading Terminal Market’s destination for Moroccan handcrafted gifts. In his booth, find intricately designed home goods (like mirrors and spice jars), leather bags, and turquoise jewelry. Where: Little Marrakesh Bazaar, Reading Terminal Market, 51 N. 12th Street
Expect Lace, Expect Lace aims to build customer con- fidence through an intimate understanding of the female body and offerings that sculpt every shape and size. Owned by Shaw Lewis, the Manayunk boutique carries some of the world’s top intimate brands for women and men. Services include personalized undergarment fittings and lingerie consultations. Where: Expect Lace, 4403 Main Street.
Just Gifts N’ Vibes, Formerly known as Paper Moon, Just Gifts N’ Vibes is a concept shop that stocks local and mission-forward online artists, makers, and creatives. Each season, the vendors and decorations in the store shift, giving plenty of small artists the chance at the retail experience. On the shelves, expect candles, tote bags, artwork, and more. Where: Just Gifts N’ Vibes, 520 S. 4th Street
Kellijane, Kelly Monk’s South Philly home decor shop is designed to feel like a sanctuary, and her rich fabrics and textiles can transform any home to feel the same way. A new bedding line (the product of 20 years of research), cozy blankets, colorful throw pillows, and luxe table fabrics are among the offerings. Either make an appointment or stop by if you’re in the neighborhood. Where: Kellijane, 1415 S. Broad Street #1
South Street Art Mart, What began as a holiday pop-up shop turned into a permanent fixture on South Street. South Street Art Mart, curated by co-owners Nicole Krecicki and Nicole Wiegand, carries works of art, jewelry, zines, pins, and so much more from over 180 Philly-area artists and makers. Where: South Street Art Mart, 530 S. 4th Street
Trunc, This Northern Liberties lifestyle boutique, co- owned by Dorothea Gamble and Dagmar Mitchell, carries socially responsible, handmade, and environmentally conscious products for the home and body, including jewelry, clothing, art, and beauty essentials., Where: Trunc, 929 N. 2nd Street
Ubuntu Fine Art Gallery, This fine art photo gallery in Germantown showcases the work of its founder and owner, Steven CW Taylor. Displayed prints of Taylor’s work immerse visitors and encourages them to interact with the places and people Taylor has photographed during the course of his travels. Each print comes with care instructions and a certificate of authenticity. Where: Ubuntu Fine Art, 5423 Germantown Avenue
Yowie, What first began as a home and lifestyle shop in 2016, has now blossomed into a boutique hotel, shop, and design studio founded by Shannon Maldonado. The Queen Village cafe and storefront is stocked with design-forward home goods, jewelry, books, and apparel. The hotel is an extension of the shop, with Maldonado’s keen eye for style and design carried through each of the 15 suites. Where: Yowie, 226 South Street
1040 Creative, Founded by Pauline Houston McCall, Sheena Garcia, and Marcy Morris, this creative hub, studio space, and gallery offers art classes for all ages, pop- up workshops, family arts days, and gallery exhibitions. Where: 1040 Creative, 1040 N. 2nd Street, Suite 301
Spas, Beauty & Wellness
3rd Element Spa, Proving sisters make the best small business partners; owners Tomika Branch and Chyvonne Shackelford established their full-service day spa in West Oak Lane. Popular here: hydrating facials, gel manicures, detox pedicures, plus waxing, lash and brow enhancements, massages, and self-care products, includ- ing 3rd Element candles and body cleansers. Where: 3rd Element Spa & Salon, 7175 Ogontz Avenue
Abiyah Naturals, Abiyah Naturals is the spot for owner Topia Tessema’s handmade and natural soaps, body oils, and moisturizers. The shop also stocks art and apparel from other women and Black-owned merchants. Where: Abiyah Naturals, 22 Ardmore Avenue, Ardmore Dope Botanicals, Sisters (and Philly natives) Nakia and Taahirah Stith are the owners of this Rittenhouse Square apothecary — or “a‘plant’ecary,” as they call it — that sells plant-based remedies in the form of herbs, smoothies, tonics, teas, and tinctures. Their goal? To offer up herbs of the liquid, powder, or cut variety that relieves customers of what’s bothering them in a judgment-free zone. Where: Dope Botanicals, 257 S. 20th Street
Duafe Holistic Hair Care, Syreeta Scott — stylist to Jill Scott, Ava DuVernay, Questlove, and Janet Jackson — has held court in North Philly for two decades, pioneering natural styles and in-demand services (locs, braids, two-strand twists, hair color) that definitely require advanced booking. Where: Duafe Holistic Hair Care, 3129 N. 22nd Street
Faheem’s Hands of Precision, Faheem Alexander has taken the barbering world by storm with his hands of precision. At it for over 25 years now, he’s known for his expertise in styling, hairline correction, and beard grooming. Faheem has worked on many celebrity clients, including Tracy Morgan and Philadelphia’s favorite hip-hop group, The Roots. Where: Faheem’s Hand of Precision, 2100 S. 20th Street
Girls Auto Clinic Repair Center, Engineer turned mechanic (and author of Girls Auto Clinic Glove Box Guide) Patrice Banks has established the city’s first and only women-run garage. Next door, she opened Clutch Beauty Bar, serving up manis, pedis, and waxing services. Where: Girls Auto Clinic Repair Center, 7425 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby
The Naked Peach, With three locations in Philadelphia — South Street West, Roxborough, and Queen Village — this full-service waxing studio is a convenient option for those interested in quick and painless body and facial waxing, as well as lash-brow tints, lash perm-lifts, and threading. Owned by Sarah Giovinetti-Mobley, The Naked Peach has provided more than $42,000 in scholarships to Philadelphians in need. Where: The Naked Peach Waxing Boutique, 708 S. 5th Street; The Naked Peach Waxing Boutique, 1725 South Street; The Naked Peach, 6226 Ridge Avenue
Nbeauty Inc., Owned by Naeemah Johnson, Nbeauty, Inc. is a beauty brand and salon that caters to African American hair styles and textures. From natural hairstyling to braids and extensions, two locations in North Philadelphia and Ardmore offer full salon services with stylists who specialize in working with the diverse textures of African American hair. In addition, an online shop offers a line of skincare products, shampoos, and conditioners. Where: Nbeauty Inc., 3933 Ridge Avenue; Nbeauty Inc., 6 Greenfield Avenue, Ardmore
QueenStylista’s Mane Artistry, At QueenStylista’s, Sheena Dickerson has cultivated a friendly, welcoming space exclusively for women. The Ardmore salon is known for its precision cuts, coloring, and styling, and the staff has a reputation for building trust with clients in search of a fresh look. Where: QueenStylista’s Mane Artistry, 55 W. Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore
If you would like to read the entire listing, please read continue reading on scoopnewsusa.com or the Visit- Philly.com website.
About Visit Philadelphia:
VISIT PHILADELPHIA® is our name and our mission. As the region’s official tourism marketing agency, we build Greater Philadelphia’s image, drive visitation and boost the economy. On Greater Philadelphia’s official visitor website, visitphilly.com, visitors can explore things to do, upcoming events, themed itineraries, and hotel packages.
