Among the successful black-owned restaurants before, during, and after the Civil Rights era were Dooky Chase’s in New Orleans, Paschal’s in Atlanta, and Sylvia’s in Harlem. They gained national and international fame. As well, many smaller businesses opened throughout the country and specialized in soul food.

Barbara “B” Smith (1949–) became highly recognized as a restaurateur and opened restaurants in the New York Theater district and in Washington, D.C.’s Union Station. Black celebrities, such as singer Gladys Knight and Sean “Diddy” Combs, either purchased restaurants or allowed one to be named for them.