Innovate78 supports the business ecosystem of the 78 Corridor by further elevating North County San Diego’s reputation and assisting businesses as they evolve. Our multi-city partnership furthers innovation with a shared vision to boost economic prosperity.
Diversity and inclusion are essential to our mission every day of the year. To champion this work, we’re excited to celebrate Black History Month by sharing some of North County’s very own Black-owned small businesses.
First up in this two part blog series, we’re spotlighting craft food and beverage along the 78 Corridor. Whether you’re inland in Escondido or coastal in Oceanside, your foodie cravings will surely be satisfied with this can’t-miss list of seven.
Fat Joes Kitchen & Arcade
Who better to kick off our foodie escapade than Fat Joes? This Oceanside staple offers savory burgers, pizza, wings, tacos, sandwiches, fresh salads and more! The classic American-style restaurant also offers arcade games, bowling and pinball, which we’ll be excited to enjoy post-COVID.
Bliss Tea & Treats
Need a caffeine boost? Oceanside’s Bliss Tea & Treats offers healthy and exotic teas inspired by their founder’s travels all over the world. Rushell Gordon is continuing the tradition of authentic tea experiences by providing customers a space to feel relaxed and rejuvenated. You can join their Communitea to receive special deals and discounts, as well as have exclusive access to members-only events in their Tea Room. Pay them a visit in North County, or shop their delicious treats and teas from their Shopify page.
SIP Wine & Beer
If you happen to find yourself in North County’s “hidden city” Escondido, we recommend visiting SIP Wine & Beer to indulge in spirits produced by women and minorities. Founder Cassandra Schaeg envisioned a space where she could infuse her passions for social justice and fine wine together. You can also visit and subscribe to her WineVersations channel on YouTube, where Cassandra hosts thought-provoking conversations about social justice, entrepreneurship and politics over glasses of wine.
One Love Island Cuisine
Next on our list is a Jamaican restaurant known for its exceptional quality and service in Jamaican island food that will have your mouth watering. Owners Sean and Cammal Walker are Jamaican Natives who offer Oceanside locals exotic Jamaican fusion cuisine. They serve a variety of traditional dishes, like their coconut curry chicken, made with only the finest herbs and spices.
Altipiano Vineyard and Winery
Did you know that Escondido is home to San Diego’s only Black female winemaker? Denise Clark co-owns Altipiano Vineyard and Winery with her husband, and together they produce award-winning wines from their Sangiovese Grosso, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah and Barbera vines. Visit their winery for curb-side pickup, or join their Wine Club to receive three selected bottles of wine quarterly in March, June, September and December.
Felix’s BBQ with Soul
Specializing in bringing southern hospitality and soul food to San Diego County, Felix’s BBQ with Soul is a true Oceanside gem. Originally from Alabama, owner Felix Berry is an expert on Cajun and Southern cuisine. His restaurant offers locals the chance to indulge in southern classics like Andouille sausage, fried southern style catfish, and St. Louis ribs—all slow cooked in a hickory-wood pit and served with a smile.
Shadow Ridge Spirits Company
In case you need a cocktail after enjoying Felix’ gumbo, Shadow Ridge Spirits Company is only a five minute drive away! This proudly Veteran-owned distillery uses only premium ingredients to create their rum and whiskey. Founder Sean Hallman hand-crafts six different whiskey and rums in house, including a 100 percent grain to glass American Single Malt Whiskey. Their delicious spirits can be bought online from Oceanside Distillers.
Innovate78 is proud to support and celebrate our local Black-owned businesses in North County. Visit their pages to place your pickup orders, join their mailing lists to stay informed or spread the word on social media.
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I love Felix’s BBQ with Soul! Believe it or not the sides plate is my favorite!