Cincinnati boasts a vibrant food and retail scene around the University of Cincinnati (UC) campus. Here, we highlight three outstanding Black-owned businesses that have made their mark on the local community.
Alabama Que
Alabama Que on Short Vine Street is a Clifton favorite with a bright red and yellow building exterior. Owner Dwan Ward, a former UC student and football player, began his culinary journey while working as a firefighter in Alabama. Since opening in 2012, Alabama Que has offered a unique take on barbecue, focusing on healthier options like turkey, chicken and beef alongside pork dishes.
Signature dishes include turkey tips—marinated and smoked to perfection—and the Messy Mac, a customizable mac and cheese dish. Desserts like peach cobbler and banana pudding round out the menu. Ward’s personal connection to UC and dedication to southern cuisine have made Alabama Que a campus staple.
Alabama Que is located at 2733 Short Vine St. and is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
Island Frydays
Island Frydays, established in 2009 on Short Vine Street, transports diners to the Caribbean with its authentic Jamaican flavors. Owned by former UC football player Leo Morgan, the restaurant’s vibrant décor and motto—”life is short, enjoy every bite”—set the stage for an island getaway.
The menu contains Jamaican classics like jerk chicken, escovitch whiting, Jamaican pattie and more. Sides like fried plantains and rice and peas complement the flavorful mains. The jerk chicken is the standout item, available in various forms like sandwiches and wings. Island Frydays’ inviting exterior and aroma of the isles have attracted celebrity visitors to the restaurant, including Guy Fieri.
Island Frydays is located at 2826 Short Vine St. and welcomes guests from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, remaining closed on Sundays.
Kilimanjaro African Heritage
Kilimanjaro African Heritage on Ludlow Avenue near UC’s campus offers a unique shopping experience inspired by Africa’s vibrant art markets. Owned by Titus Nzioki, a Kenya native, the store specializes in handmade African art, jewelry and clothing.
Nzioki’s journey began in Kenya, learning the art of selling from his father. He eventually settled in Clifton in 1998. Kilimanjaro stands out with a curated selection of African art, including wooden sculptures, traditional masks, handmade jewelry and clothing. Nzioki personally sources these items from independent vendors across Africa.
Kilimanjaro has become a cherished part of the UC community, even creating graduation stoles for UC’s African American Cultural and Resource Center’s spring 2023 graduates. Nzioki’s passion for African culture and art shines through, making Kilimanjaro a unique destination.
Kilimanjaro African Heritage is located at 310 Ludlow Ave. and opens from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday.