Dining in San Diego with Ramel J. Wallace
San Diego’s vibrant neighborhoods are home to an equally creative and eclectic dining scene, and visiting them can be like a global journey within the city limits. So come along with Ramel J. Wallace – an accomplished local writer, host and storyteller – as he explores some favorite restaurants, cafes and more from the perspective of a Black San Diegan.
Louisiana Purchase
Where: 2305 University Ave., San Diego, CA 92104
Tucked onto Louisiana Street in North Park, this intimate cocktail spot channels the spirit of New Orleans with a warm, community-driven vibe. This is the spot where I tell Black folks to eat when they’ve just moved here from the South and are looking for a place like home. The menu is bold and full of Southern flavor, with a rotating "Neighborhood Tastes" section in which Executive Chef and co-owner Quinnton Austin, who moved from NOLA, experiments with seasonal dishes like his famous Alligator Andouille Cheesecake. It’s a spot where good food, great drinks, decor and atmosphere collide.
Mom’s Chicken & Waffles (formerly Rhythm's Chicken & Waffles)
Where: 3112 University Ave., San Diego, CA 92104
What started in 2018 as a family venture with a food truck quickly turned into Mom’s Chicken and Waffles in North Park. The concept blew up, and by 2019, they moved into a brick-and-mortar spot in Pacific Beach, where they were featured on Netflix’s “Fresh, Fried and Crispy.” Now the mom has fully taken the lead, rebranding it to Mom’s Chicken and Waffles with an expanded menu. They're currently inside U31 Bar, and the partnership with the bar's owner, Steve, has been a game-changer.
Sabor Piri Piri Kitchen
Where: 804 B Ave., National City
Sabor Piri Piri Kitchen’s menu features vegan and chicken bowls, samosas, vegan wings and more, combining traditional dishes from Mozambique and its neighboring countries for an authentic and unique taste. They started and are still located at area farmers markets, Pacific Beach Farmers’ Market, La Jolla Open Aire Market, North Park Farmers Market and Hillcrest Farmers Market.
Surf & Soul Spot
Where: 7229 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115
Surf & Soul Spot, co-owned by Chef Sarajevo Amor and NFL star turned entrepreneur Sergio Bailey II, offers a menu that combines Black culture with a SoCal twist. The “Surf Menu,” available Monday through Wednesday, features creative seafood dishes, while the “Soul Menu,” served Friday through Sunday, showcases traditional Southern comfort food. This one is a hidden gem.
Julia Mae's Kitchen
Where: 4414 Delta St., San Diego, CA 92113
Julie Mae’s Kitchen is what Black and Brown solidarity tastes like. It’s a reminder that proximity ain’t just about place, it’s about love, lineage, and what we feed each other. Julie’s a thoughtful cook, and you can feel that care in every bite. She pops up on weekends behind Aztlan Libre, serving Blaxican soul food that bridges Black San Diego and Mexican culture, birria Mac, catfish tacos, candied yams, oxtail, and all of it feels like home.
The Mental Bar
Where: 6325 Imperial Ave., Ste. 103, San Diego, CA 92114
The Mental Bar, owned by Tommy and Daneyel Walker, is a vibrant café located in the San Diego Black Arts and Culture District. It has become a vital third space for the southeastern community, especially after the 2024 floods. From art shows and community gatherings to conversations and bike meetups, The Mental Bar serves as a hub for creativity, connection and culture in the heart of the district.
Nomad Donuts
Where: 3102 University Ave., San Diego, CA 92104
Owned by Brad Keiller, Nomad Donuts has earned the title of "Best Donut in San Diego" multiple times. This North Park gem serves up a unique selection of artisanal donuts, including a variety of vegan options, alongside wood-fired bagels. They maintain that their bagels rival those of Montreal and New York, and that's saying something.
Maya's Cookies
Where: 4670 Mission Gorge Place, San Diego, CA 92120
Maya’s Cookies is America’s No. 1 Black-owned vegan cookie company. Founded by Maya Madsen in 2015, this spot specializes in soft-baked gourmet vegan cookies made with quality plant-based ingredients. From classic chocolate chip s’mores to unique marble fudge, these cookies are inspired by Madsen’s travels and memories. If you miss her Mission Valley storefront, don’t worry, you can also find Maya at the Hillcrest Farmers Market from time to time.
Friends of Friends Coffee Shop
Where: 127 E. Eighth St., National City, CA 91950
Friends of Friends is a cozy, community-driven National City coffee shop with a unique twist – a listening bar that blends Japanese tradition with Black culture, screaming hip-hop at its core. Great music and delicious coffee come together to create an immersive experience. Alongside their tasty brewed coffee, they partner with 10K Coffee Lab to offer workshops for young coffee entrepreneurs, empowering the next generation. You’ll also find Wavy Burger serving up tasty food. Whether you’re grabbing a bite, sipping coffee or enjoying one of their incredible events, this spot is all about creativity, connection and good vibes. Although not Black-owned, this is a location that feels like home for us. I highly suggest ordering the Thai Tea Latte and the Lil Homie burger.