Black Joy Kitchen — Restaurant in Oak Bluffs

Really really wanted to love this place. Photos and everything about it starting from their site to other reviews were highly impressive. I believe as this review is about to be critical - I should say the good things about the spot, thought the service was impeccable, felt very welcomed and taken care off! But the foood?? Oh I don’t know tbh! Mid, I would expect the flavors to be transportive (especially if we are talking about highlighting the African Diaspora). The food was a bit cold, and if you know anything about people of color we like that shit to be hot, warm bellies! I understand this food is supposed to be family style but nothing about the proportions, menu, and presentation articulate that.

As for Atmosphere- yes we are in an island of the coast of Massachusetts, but again if we are to be highlighting the diaspora BRING THOSE ELEMENTS IN! How do you give people on the island an escape an experience outside of the norm of traditional New England food and setting. I would’ve loved to see tapestries from all of the countries highlighted not photographs of black women picking cotton. Black joy should be in every element in the restaurant not just in the...

This restaurant was honestly a magical experience! It only opened a few weeks ago, but the months of prep and competence of the incredibly kind staff and chef have paid off in a beautiful and delightful ambience. The food was excellent — we came for Sunday brunch and split both combos (2 meats/3 sides and grilled veg/3 sides) for 4 people and were stuffed. We particularly loved the baked beans, perfectly spicy vegan greens, and absolutely drool-worthy brisket. It is also adorable inside, with beautiful natural wood booths and tasteful touches of Black art, and we saw outside that it looks like they are close to setting up a beautiful large outdoor seating area. This is a family affair, with a queer Black woman at the helm. They are committed to highlighting flavors, cuisines, and languages from all around the world. The head of beverages welcomed us at our table and told us a bit about their Black-only liquor and wines selection, and all homemade shrubs and syrups.

This is sure to become a Vineyard must! Can’t...

Black Joy Kitchen is something truly special - easily one of the most memorable meals of my life. This newer spot on the island brings rich, vibrant flavors from around the globe, blending spices and textures in a way that keeps every bite exciting and unexpected. We dined family-style, which is 100% the move - it lets you experience the full range of what the kitchen is all about. Personal standouts were the BBQ meatballs (tender and smoky), the SUYA HONEY DRUMSTICK CHANDELIER (yep, as epic as it sounds - sweet, spicy, perfectly charred), and the BILLIONAIRE’S BACON BOUQUET (crispy, savory, sweet perfection). Every dish showed up with presentation just as bold as the flavor, and it added to the whole experience. The cocktails were just as thoughtful and creative. Our server, Isaac, took amazing care of us - super friendly, attentive, and clearly passionate about the food and drinks. You can truly feel the love behind every detail. This wasn’t just dinner - it was an experience. A must-visit if you’re on...