Black-owned businesses in Santa Barbara are weaving community ties through food and experiences, showcasing resilience and cultural pride.

In Santa Barbara, Black-owned businesses are making significant contributions to the local community by bringing flavors, culture, and unique experiences to residents and visitors alike. From barbecue pop-ups to Caribbean cuisine and mobile animal petting zoos, these enterprises embody connection and determination, all focused on serving the community.

Mylestone BBQ, founded by Charles Myles in 2019, originated from a deep passion for family, culture, and community. Myles, who grew up cooking with his parents, began hosting block parties to connect with neighbors before launching his business. With a background in building technology and experience at Draughtsmen Aleworks, he honed his culinary skills to create a menu that reflects Southern-style barbecue. Mylestone BBQ offers an array of dishes, including brisket, pork ribs, chicken legs, and barbecue tacos.

Santa Barbara Black-owned

Myles emphasizes the importance of understanding the cooking process, stating, "There's no compromise in the food business." He enjoys preparing brisket and ribs, noting that patience and technique are essential for achieving the perfect barbecue. Although tourism has benefited the business, Myles believes that long-term success hinges on community support. To foster connections, he established a system on the restaurant's website to keep the local community engaged.

Another notable establishment is Kool Runninz SB, which opened in October 2020 amidst the pandemic. Owner Christopher John Ross moved from Kingston, Jamaica, and began cooking traditional Jamaican meals for friends and family before starting his restaurant. Inspired by the flavors of his childhood, he offers a menu featuring jerk chicken, pork, tofu, and fried plantains. Despite facing challenges as a first-time owner, including limited access to loans and resources, John Ross asserts that small businesses keep money circulating within the community.

Kool Runninz SB operates with a dedicated four-person team, including John Ross, Stacy Staggs in marketing and management, and chef Kenny Thomas. They strive to uphold food quality and smooth operations while fostering a connection to Jamaican culture. John Ross aims to build a lasting legacy and hopes to expand into a franchise in the future.

John Ross Stacy Staggs

Lastly, SB Party Animals, a mobile petting zoo founded by Abel Swanson during high school, offers a unique experience for community events and parties. The family-run business features animals from rabbits to reptiles, many of which have been adopted by Swanson. His love for animals started in Africa, and he now manages the animals' care alongside his mother, who assists with online operations.

SB Party Animals prioritizes animal safety and tailors its offerings based on the specific needs of each event. The business has gained popularity through local word-of-mouth and has even attracted celebrity clients. Financial flexibility is crucial for Swanson, who aims to make his services accessible to everyone. "Be the best," he says, reflecting his commitment to quality.

As Black History Month closes, the contributions of these businesses highlight the critical role they play in Santa Barbara's cultural fabric. Each one demonstrates how Black-owned enterprises not only serve delicious food and engaging activities but also foster community connections and support.

There's no compromise in the food business.

Where this fits

For diners, the question that matters is rarely whether somewhere is new, but whether it will still be worth the trip a year from now.

Key takeaways

  • Black-owned businesses in Santa Barbara are weaving community ties through food and experiences, showcasing resilience and cultural pride
  • In Santa Barbara, Black-owned businesses are making significant contributions to the local community by bringing flavors, culture, and unique experiences to residents and visitors alike
  • Myles emphasizes the importance of understanding the cooking process, stating, "There's no compromise in the food business." He enjoys preparing brisket and ribs, noting that patience and technique are essential for achieving the perfect barbecue
  • Another notable establishment is Kool Runninz SB, which opened in October 2020 amidst the pandemic
  • Lastly, SB Party Animals, a mobile petting zoo founded by Abel Swanson during high school, offers a unique experience for community events and parties

Common questions

Why does it matter?

In Santa Barbara, Black-owned businesses are making significant contributions to the local community by bringing flavors, culture, and unique experiences to residents and visitors alike.

What happens next?

John Ross aims to build a lasting legacy and hopes to expand into a franchise in the future.

The bottom line

As always in the dining room, the gap between what gets announced and what actually reaches people is where the real story will be decided.