Hungry? You can try out more than 20 restaurants during Black Restaurant Week

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Get your stomach and your taste buds ready – here’s your chance to try something new.

This week, from April 12-April 18, more than 20 local restaurants want you to check them out.

This is the sixth year for Black Restaurant Week in Milwaukee, and the options are plenty.

You’re invited to dish on everything from Soul Food, BBQ, specialty cuisine and more.

“We believe that food is a common bond that ties our community together," BlankSpace MKE executive director Bridget Robinson said.

Shani Belton is the manager and caterer of City.Net Café in downtown.

“So when you come here you’re going to get really good coffee, really great food and if you need catering for your business, catering for just personal needs we have you," said Belton.

More than 20 restaurants are on the list this year.

That’s down from the 30 to 40 that have joined in the past.

Organizers at Blank Space Milwaukee say the pandemic definitely made an impact.

“So, new this year, we’ll definitely see a lot more carryout and takeout options," said Robinson.

She adds that it’s about trying new culture and realizing the power of supporting your community.

"We think that if folks really understand the power of their dollar and why it’s so important to support local, how it improves our community, connects people together, that’s really just what we want to see," said Robinson.

Over the six years, she said this week has helped restaurants beyond just foot traffic.

Some have upgraded their websites, connected with local artists and hired new staff.

“I believe that this is an opportunity for people to see that there are minority restaurants who may not be able to advertise or who may not be able to do larger things like other corporate restaurants," said Belton.

The businesses featured during Black Restaurant Week are COVID-safe, with dine-in or curbside options.

To see which ones are on the list, click here.