Support These Black-Owned Shops

“Hospitality and sneaker store” aren’t terms often found in the same sentence. Yet, walking into Union Station, nestled in Downtown Fort Worth, you’re greeted by more than the rows of leather and laces. The shop exudes a warm hospitality, starting from the friendly greeting by the shop’s owner, Patrick McGrew Jr., to the inviting leather lounge chairs strategically placed against the vibrant backdrop of a black and white painting. This painting, featuring a Black jazz musician, pops out strikingly against the shop’s red brick walls.

Whether you’re on the hunt for the latest Yeezy sandals or in search of unique, artisan sneakers, Union Station caters to your needs. Patrick McGrew Jr. isn’t just the proprietor; he’s the creative force behind the store, designing, overseeing the manufacturing, and curating the distribution of his own unique sneaker designs.

Union Station offers a direct pipeline to accessing those kicks alongside a shopping experience that goes beyond the conventional. With soul, hip-hop, and funk records accompanying street wear and a diverse array of contemporary art, make a point of stopping by Union Station.

When looking for great gifts for book lovers, coffee and tea connoisseurs and everyone in between, The Dock Bookshop has it all. Boasting a 4,000 sq ft space, they are not only one of the biggest Black-owned bookstores in Texas, they stock audiobooks, greeting cards, candles, music, home goods, novelty items and more. In addition to hosting book signings, they have their own Dock Radio App, from which they broadcast local and national talk shows and music programs. Visiting The Dock Bookshop is a surefire way to experience the heart of Black Fort Worth.

6637 Meadowbrook Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76112

Indulge your sweet tooth at La’Creamian. In the heart of downtown Fort Worth, this Black-owned ice cream and coffee shop serves up delightful treats with a generous dose of smiles and love. Try signature flavors like Bourbon Black Chocolate, Strawberry Sweet Note, Cookie Dough Delight and Java Jolt. Don’t forget to grab a coffee, too! It’s the perfect little pick-me-up as you explore Sundance Square and downtown Fort Worth.

215 W 8th St. Fort Worth Tx 76102

When looking for the grown and sexy crowd, one need look no further than Fort Worth’s Black-owned Club Ritzy. With everything from VIP areas to onsite party planners, you are sure to have a ball at Club Ritzy. For those who want to put on their dancing shoes, there is a Swing Out class held every Thursday night for beginners through intermediate dancers. You don’t need to bring a partner! Line dancing is included in the session. 

1201 Oakland Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76103

This non-profit organization in Fort Worth exists to make ballet available to underserved communities through mentorship, an annual scholarship drive, the hosting and planning of ballet recitals, as well as curating photography exhibitions to give visibility to Brown ballet dancers everywhere. 

Through the Brown Girls Do podcast, this 501 (c)3, the projects and business created by Brown girls throughout the country are highlighted. While the Brown Girls Do Ballet project focuses mainly on younger women, the podcast exists to bridge the gap between youth and adults who are working to provide visibility and space for underrepresented female communities. 

1201 Evans Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104

While not a Black-owned institution, Magnolia Wine Bar has a long-standing relationship with soul and R&B vocalist Leon Bridges, as well as a mural adorning the side of their establishment painted by one of Bridges’ artistic collaborators, Kristen Soble. The bar houses an extensive wine selection, along with local brews, non-alcoholic options, charcuterie boards and Southern faire. From full-bodied sips to decadent bites, the ambience of Magnolia Wine Bar easily compliments all the delicious selections available.

With a commitment to community, they hosted Leon Bridges during the quarantine for a virtual fundraising concert to aid local businesses. The streaming performance has raised upwards of $163,000 for the Southside C.A.R.E.S. Fund. 

1101 W Magnolia Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104

We all deserve to pamper ourselves every now and then, and when in Fort Worth, Danette’s Suburban Oasis is the place to do that. With spa treatments, body wraps, massages and cocktails, all on the premises of their boutique, you can shop, relax, and check off some self care from your to-do list. From drinkware to e-books, bath and body items and catering, an Oasis is exactly what Danette and her team provide their guests. Stop in and treat yourself-you deserve it. 

101 S Jennings Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104

For those fitness fans in Fort Worth, The Performance Lab hosts small group classes (limit 8 students), one on one fitness training, and can even prepare you for that 5K you’ve been meaning to do. Their High Intensity Interval Training class is sure to make you feel the burn without burning you out, and their coached strength and conditioning training is unparalleled. This Black-owned gym is guaranteed to provide what you need to keep yourself strong and healthy. 

928 Travis Ave Suite 101, Fort Worth, TX 76104