Black Restaurant Week: Celebrating culture in Shreveport-Bossier

SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER CITY, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — The Shreveport-Bossier African American Chamber of Commerce (SBAACC) has been hosting Black Restaurant Week for five years and counting.

“So this is a real cultural impact that we have on our city,” says Billy Anderson, SBAACC Chair for Black Restaurant Week.

The seven-day affair highlights Black-owned restaurants and catering businesses, promoting names that may not be as well known in the community.

“You can go to some larger cities, and they don’t highlight their African American-owned restaurants. So this is a really big deal to have in Shreveport, these restaurants are really putting their best foot forward, and getting you to come out this week,” Anderson shares.

Kalisa Masiki has owned her company, Lifestyle Nutrition, since 2021. This is her first year participating in Black Restaurant Week, and she says it is allowing her to get her name out there.

“This is your time to show your community that you are going to pour back into the community. And give Shreveport-Bossier an opportunity to shine on a brighter level,” she says.

More than 25 restaurants are participating this year. Each offering lunch and dinner specials from their menu at value prices.

“You know, it’s not just soul food or barbecue that you may think that would come with the African American-owned restaurant, but it’s a variety. So, you’re getting different types of food. You’ll leave the restaurant satisfied for sure,” says Anderson.