They’re pioneers in the Black-owned restaurant space!
Recently, Atlanta, Georgia, received its very first Michelin Guide, Black Enterprise reports. A pivotal moment for the Atlanta culinary scene, featured in the guide was one of the city’s oldest soul food restaurants, The Busy Bee Cafe. Serving the residents of ATL since 1947, Busy Bee is known as “the South on a plate.” Located in the city’s famed Vine City neighborhood, it lands on the Michelin Guide as an establishment worthy to visit, winning the 2023 Bib Gourmand Award, which highlights restaurants with the best food at an affordable price point.
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For the last 7+ decades, Busy Bee has served quintessential soul food, hosting celebrity customers and offering a cozy atmosphere with grade-A hospitality.
“We are Black history. Prepared with love. Seasoned with soul,” a message on the restaurant’s website reads.
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The Michelin Guide highlights many of the restaurant’s staples, including fried chicken, sweet tea and lemonade, homemade blackberry cobbler, and more. They also spotlight one of the restaurant’s former customers whose name is now on the street where they’re located.
“Everyone has come through these doors, including Martin Luther King Jr. It may be big on heart, but this spot, with tile floors, booths, a stool-lined counter, and walls hung with framed photos, is tiny. Still, they’re making a big impression with old-fashioned Southern/soul food,” wrote the publication.
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The honor comes on the heels of another spotlight for the cafe, owner Tracy Gates, recently being inducted into The Georgia Hospitality Hall of Fame. The restaurant also received a James Beard Award last year. After 76 years in business, The Busy Bee Cafe is finally receiving all of its roses. It is known for its elite culinary experience and as a pioneer for other Black-owned restaurants in the city.
To read the complete Michelin Guide review on The Busy Bee Cafe, click here.
Cover photo: Atlanta’s Historic Busy Bee Cafe Receives Michelin Honor/Photo by @TheBusyBeeATL/Instagram