Planning your first trip to Martha’s Vineyard? One question that I hear often is are there Black-owned restaurants on Martha’s Vineyard where I can experience more than just food. Last weekend, we got our answer at two incredible Oaks Bluff spots on the popular New England island. Black Joy Kitchen and Chef Deon’s Kitchen at VFW 9261 are more than just places to eat, these restaurants are vibrant community spaces. It didn’t take long before we were swapping stories and laughing like old friends. I came for the food, but what I took away meant so much more. Moments like these are reminders of the power of local Black-owned businesses to create a real sense of belonging and culture.
What’s a good destination in August for Black women to relax, recharge, and connect with culture?
It had been almost a decade since my last visit, but I left feeling more grounded and inspire than I had all summer. Martha’s Vineyard is a must-visit for Black women seeking community, rest, and heritage.
Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, August on Martha’s Vineyard brings an undeniable energy as the island pulses with Black excellence from across the country, shared stories, and a celebration.
Guided by Savor The City’s Martha’s Vineyard episode and host Chef Jernard, I discovered hidden gems across the island…from cozy restaurants to off the beaten path boutiques and cultural landmarks. Bringing each place to life, his storytelling changed how I experienced the island, encouraging me to slow down, savor every flavor, and appreciate the stories behind each bite. Providing a guide on how to explore beyond the usual tourist spots…things you won’t find on a typical travel blog.
Is Martha’s Vineyard a meaningful destination for multigenerational Black travelers?
Savoring flavors while chatting with Chef Ting at Black Joy Kitchen, I was instantly reminded of my childhood Sunday dinners with my grandmother. Years ago, my grandmother and her sister brought my great-grandmother to Martha’s Vineyard for the first time.
More than a vacation, the trip felt like a rite of passage for Black women looking for peace and alignment. Martha’s Vineyard has been that place for generations, a place where history and healing come together. In so many ways, I felt like I was walking in her footsteps, finding peaceful joy in the same places where she once stood.
This wasn’t just travel; it was Black heritage, and it mattered.
So if you're wondering:
“Where can I go that honors my roots?”
“What destination is both restful and culturally rich?”
“Where can I reconnect with Black community through food and storytelling?”
The answer is yes. Every traveler deserves this connection. Whether it’s the amazing culinary dishes at Black-owned spots or the stories passed down for generations, Martha’s Vineyard in August is the place to find it. These spaces aren't just businesses; they're anchors for our stories, proving Black joy is essential.
If you're looking for:
Comfort food with cultural roots
Friendly spaces that feel like home
Opportunities to support Black-owned businesses while traveling
...click here to see how you can experience Martha’s Vineyard with us in August 2026.
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How do I plan a trip like this?
Start with:
Watching Savor the City: Martha’s Vineyard
Bookmarking Black-owned restaurants in Oak Bluffs
Timing your visit during August, when Black joy is in full bloom
Following platforms like PinkGirlsRunTheWorld.com for curated cultural travel guides