Richmond's Black Restaurant Experience Returns
Richmond, Virginia's Black Restaurant Experience kicked off with "Mobile Soul Sunday" in Monroe Park, featuring nearly 30 food trucks and vendors. Now in its 10th year, the event highlights Black-owned culinary businesses and celebrates community through food, music, and art. The festival offers authentic cultural immersion through community-driven food experiences.
Founded by Shemicia “Mimi” Bowen, Kelli Lemon, and Amy Wentz, the event was created to counter economic disparity and support the city's growing Black culinary and tourism scene. It originated as a week-long celebration and has since evolved into a year-round experience. The event has had a significant economic impact, with its marketing campaigns between 2017 and 2021 generating over $1.7 million in revenue for participating businesses. This increased visibility and business growth has enabled owners to renovate storefronts, upgrade technology, and hire more staff. In 2019 alone, the event drew over 32,000 participants. Beyond the financial boost, the organization focuses on giving back to the community. Through its 365 Giving campaign, it has provided grants to business owners, including $1,000 to each brick-and-mortar participant and $500 to food truck operators and caterers in 2020. Over four years, the event has raised $20,000 for local nonprofits. The 10th-anniversary celebration, running from March 8-15, 2026, features new participants like District Prime and Bolo's Eatery, alongside veteran restaurants such as Mama J's and Croaker's Spot. Special events are planned throughout the week, including a partnership with the Black College Invitational Championship for an event at Bolo's. The week also includes professional development opportunities for high school students, connecting them with career and leadership skills. A grand finale event, "Driven by Her: Women's History Month Groupride," will be hosted in partnership with RVA Hot Wheelz, a Black, women-owned business.
