The inaugural Black Eats Week 803 (BEW803) was a week-long celebration of Black-owned restaurants and food trucks held June 19-25 in the Columbia metropolitan area.
The event brought together food enthusiasts, highlighted diverse culinary talents, and served as a platform to support and uplift Black-owned food establishments during Juneteenth.
“The response from Black Eats Week 803 has been amazing,” said Khali Gallman, BEW803 event organizer. “There are so many great restaurants and food trucks in our city, and BEW803 was an opportunity to celebrate local Black-owned restaurants and food trucks. I am excited about the feedback thus far and look forward to preparing for future events. We could not have done this without the vision of the restaurateurs, sponsors, and media exposure. We are very appreciative of the hometown love and support.”
Black Eats Week 803 exceeded expectations, with more than 2,500 customers served throughout the week, leaving a lasting impression on both attendees and businesses alike.
“We are absolutely thrilled with the incredible turnout and support for Black Eats Week 803,” said Kevin Dudley, event promoter, Barcode. “We sold out of our turkey legs for the first time during our Wednesday special that week, and had a ton of people come in for the free 712 Vodka tastings. I’m glad to know we will now have repeat customers from this exposure.”
Throughout the week, attendees indulged in a wide array of mouthwatering dishes, ranging from soul food to international cuisines.
“We opened our doors August 19, 2022 and are open six days a week,” said Darrell Sims, chief operating officer, Sky Bistro Lounge “We feel this event has been great for the community. We have showcased our number one appetizer which is our Philly cheesesteak egg rolls, and on Tuesday night our entrees are half off, and our entrees are so delicious. We served about 700 people this week, and I know for a fact that many of those people are from Black Eats Week 803. I have spoken with several people and saw some people come with their bingo boards, which is something very nice for all of the businesses.”
Participating restaurants and food trucks included: Barcode Restaurant, Legacy Caribbean Bar & Grill, Sky Bistro Lounge, Mimsy’s, Blythewood Seafood Emporium, Ms. B’s Southern Soul Food, Tha River Sports Bar & Grill, and Annie B’s Mini Donuts.
Sponsors include: 712 Vodka, Soda City Certified App, Black Expo South, Merrell Johnson – The Cheer Lender, SC HBCU 5K, Tameika Isaac Devine – Jabber & Isaac, & K. Dudley Promotions.
For more information on future events visit www.blackeatsweek803.com or call 803-922-5310.