This February, Rappaport is celebrating the many contributions of the Black community to our home in the DMV. So for those looking to support a black-owned business this Black History Month, we are highlighting five stellar business in the Washington D.C. area.
Halfsmoke at Rockville Town Center
Founded in 2016 by Washington D.C. native, Andre McCain, HalfSmoke has quickly become a DMV favorite for artisan sausage, flatbreads, sandwiches, ice cream, and more. With a unique design that combines elements of quick-service restaurants, cafes, and gastro-pubs, there is always something new to experience. For first-timers, we recommend the “Briggs & Co.” — their namesake “half-smoke” sausage topped with chili, cheese, bacon, crispy onions, and mustard slaw on a brioche bun. Locations are popping up all over the DMV with one slated to arrive in Rockville Town Center this year!
Roaming Rooster at Skyland Town Center
This family business, started by Michael and Biniyam Habtemariam and sister-in-law, Hareg Mesfin in 2015, began as a food truck with a simple mission: free-range, grain-fed, and antibiotic free fried chicken that you could feel good about eating. 8 years and 11 locations later, Roaming Rooster has retained their family-centered values while topping everyone’s “Best Chicken Sandwich” list. For those stopping by their Skyland Town Center location, we recommend the OG Nashville chicken sandwich extra hot, with a scoop of house-made frozen custard to cool you down.
Tropical Smoothie at Skyland Town Center
Now open at Skyland Town Center, Tropical Smoothie Cafe is bringing its zest and mission to provide a healthier dining option to the community. The Skyland location is the third under the ownership of David and Alesha Magby, a couple committed to ensuring that everyone has access to healthy food options. Tropical Smoothie certainly lives up to that commitment by using responsibly sourced, safe, and quality ingredients making them the best spot for delicious and nutritious smoothies, sandwiches, flatbreads and more.
Cold Stone Creamery in Navy Yard & Shops at Dakota Crossing
For over 30 years, Cold Stone Creamery has been serving up fresh ice cream, cakes, shakes, and smoothies to the Washington D.C. area. Always freshly made in-house, Cold Stone’s artisan ice creams are the perfect treat for any occasion. Visit locations in Navy Yard and the Shops at Dakota Crossing to support Rappaport retailers, Olatunji and Awawu Umaru
Elysiem in Bethesda & Park Potomac
Looking for a gift for your best friend? Specialty pet supply store and salon, Elysiem, carries premium quality all-natural pet food, treats, supplies, accessories, and everything in between. Founded by animal-lover, John McNeal, Elysiem’s beautiful high-end design paired with quality product offerings is the perfect place to pamper your four-legged friends. Check out locations in Bethesda and Park Potomac.
