• The AFRO Table
  • Posts
  • A Cut Above: Celebrating Steaks, Strength, and Soulful Sides

A Cut Above: Celebrating Steaks, Strength, and Soulful Sides

From sizzling ribeyes to survival stories, this week’s AFRO Table spotlights Black-owned restaurants, the resilience of D.C.’s dining scene, and Chef Jenard Wells’ indulgent lobster mac & cheese.

We’re honoring National Filet Mignon Day with a roundup of Black-owned restaurants serving unforgettable steak dinners, and sharing the inspiring story of how Black restaurants in D.C. weathered the challenges of a global pandemic. Plus, Chef Jenard Wells brings comfort and indulgence to your kitchen with his decadent lobster mac & cheese recipe.

Prime Cuts & Bold Flavors: Black-Owned Restaurants to Visit

National Filet Mignon Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in one of life’s most luxurious pleasures, a beautifully cooked steak. Across the country, Black-owned restaurants are putting their own stamp on this classic dinner, pairing premium cuts with inventive sides, bold flavors, and warm hospitality. Whether you crave a melt-in-your-mouth filet or a hearty ribeye, these standout spots prove that steak night can be both elevated and unforgettable.

Water for Chocolate – Baltimore, MD

In the heart of Baltimore, Chef Sean Guy’s Water for Chocolate is known for comfort food with a creative twist. Their 10-ounce ribeye is a true highlight—juicy, perfectly seared, and paired with seasonal sides that balance richness with fresh, vibrant flavors. It’s the kind of steak that invites you to slow down and savor every bite.

Kitchen + Kocktails – Washington, D.C. & Dallas, TX

At Kitchen + Kocktails, steak gets the Southern hospitality treatment. Their Surf and Turf pairs a tender, flavorful steak with succulent lobster tail, creating a decadent combination worthy of celebration. Rich sauces and soulful sides elevate the dish into a feast for both the palate and the eyes.

Brooklyn Chop House – New York, NY & Miami, FL

Brooklyn Chop House blends traditional steakhouse luxury with Asian-inspired creativity. Known for their dry-aged steaks, the restaurant serves everything from filet mignon to porterhouse with precision. Their unique take on upscale dining makes it a destination for those who want steak with a side of bold culinary imagination.

Milk & Honey – Atlanta, GA

While Milk & Honey is best known for brunch, their dinner menu offers steak lovers a delicious surprise. Think juicy ribeyes, flavorful strip steaks, and tender cuts paired with indulgent sides like creamy mac and cheese or garlic mashed potatoes. The casual-yet-upscale vibe makes it perfect for a relaxed but memorable steak dinner.

BLVD Steakhouse – Chicago, IL

If you want old-school steakhouse glamour with a modern twist, BLVD Steakhouse delivers. The art deco-inspired space sets the stage for prime cuts cooked to perfection—filet mignon, ribeye, and New York strip included. Paired with handcrafted cocktails and decadent sides, it’s an ideal spot for a special occasion.

Raising a Glass to National Filet Mignon Day

From Baltimore to Chicago, these Black-owned restaurants are redefining steak night with quality, creativity, and heart. This National Filet Mignon Day, treat yourself to more than just a meal—make it an experience. Whether you go for a ribeye, a surf-and-turf, or the filet mignon itself, you’ll be celebrating not just great food, but the incredible talent and vision of Black chefs and restaurateurs.

Happy 133rd Birthday to the AFRO!

It’s back! The AFRO’s 5th Annual Black Business Matters EXPO is happening Thursday, August 14, 2025 at 4:30 PM at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum 830 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD! This powerful event celebrates Black entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic empowerment — featuring dynamic speakers, innovative brands, and a live performance by spoken word artist Rebecca Dupas. Don’t miss the Sip N Say” networking reception with Black-owned wine & spirits distributors. Tickets just $35 p/p at afrotix.live.  For sponsorships, contact Lenora Howze at [email protected]

Here is great variation on Chef Jenard Wells’ Lobster Mac & Cheese!

Your boss will think you’re a genius

You’re optimizing for growth. Go-to-Millions is Ari Murray’s ecommerce newsletter packed with proven tactics, creative that converts, and real operator insights—from product strategy to paid media. No mushy strategy. Just what’s working. Subscribe free for weekly ideas that drive revenue.

Reply

or to participate.