In the 1820s, after buying his freedom, Solomon Humphries opened one of the first recorded Black-owned businesses in Macon, GA that held groceries and other various goods. Since then, the amount of Black-owned businesses in Macon have increased. From restaurants to boutiques, here are some Black-owned businesses you might have not heard of.
1). Saleems Fish Supreme
Founded by Wajee’ah Saleem back in 1978, Saleems Fish Supreme is a fried fish restaurant. When it first opened, it was the second Black-owned business in Bibb County. With 4.5 stars on Google Reviews, Saleem Fish Supreme has a collection of fried fish, fried chicken tenders, and a selection of sides like okra, coleslaw, and fries. Based on reviews, the restaurant is known for its great customer service and good food. “Fried fish (tilapia) was quite delicious, and the prices are reasonable! I heard the cakes are amazing as well, although when I visited, they were sold out! Overall, great establishment!” Nina V wrote on Google Reviews. The restaurant is open from Wednesday to Saturday from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on Wednesday and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. every other day. Saleem Fish Supreme is located at 2198 Pio Nono Ave, Macon, GA 31206.
2). The Kaviar Beauty Bar
The Kaviar Beauty Bar, co-founded by Andria Sands and Leigha Axom in 2020, is a cosmetics service salon. The beauty salon offers services like facials, hairstyling, nail art, and bridal makeup. Additionally, Kaviar hires stylists, licensed estheticians, barbers, nail techs, and makeup artists in their establishment. With 5.0 stars on Google Reviews, customers can get hairstyles from box braids to silk presses. Reviews comment on the great environment. Shonitra Haugabook explained, “Andria restored my faith in my hair! I was immediately greeted by Leah and made to feel comfortable along with showing me all of the services they have,” Haugabook said. “It wasn’t overbooked & Andria honesty performed a miracle on my damaged natural hair. If you are looking for an oasis with great customer service, this is your place.” Kaviar is only closed on Monday and Sunday. Every other day, they are open from 8 a.m.-9 p.m. at 362 Cotton Ave, Macon, GA 31201.
3). Pretty Lux Co.
Open since July 2023 in Downtown Macon, Pretty Lux Co. has changed the experience of candles. This is a handmade candle craft store owned by Anikitia Abram. Abram originally opened the business to support a creative craft of hers. “I saw people treat candle-making like a hobby, while I saw chemistry,” Abram said on her website. Additionally, the website explains how Pretty Lux Co. is more than an average candle store. They combine luxury, science, and manufacturing to experiment with candle making. They offer in-person classes on candle making on top of selling their own candles. “I drove down from Atlanta to come to a candle class with a friend and absolutely loved it. The staff was great, and I loved that we were able to take our candles home the same day, within an hour after finishing,” Kimbery Parson said in a Google Review. “I also liked how they provided us with card games and drinks to help the time pass by. I will definitely be back.” They are open on Friday from 5 p.m.-to 8 p.m.m, Saturday 12 p.m.-to 8 p.m., and Sunday 2 p.m.-6 p.m. at 536 3rd St, Macon, GA 31201.
4). Sweet Affairz Dessert Shop
Ramichael and Pamela Anthony opened Sweet Affairz Dessert Shop, a bakery and coffee shop, in 2024 with the dream of giving the best to the community of Macon. With extreme detail in designs and baking, Sweet Affairz creates an environment of delicate sweet treats. “Ordered some cupcakes to be delivered for my sister’s birthday. Ordering online was easy and confirmation was quick. She loved them and said they are so delicious!” Kimberly Ledford on Google Reviews said. The shop offers a selection of cupcakes, cakes, cookies, coffee, and other pastries while offering corporate catering services and custom desserts. The bakery is open on Wednesday to Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Tuesday and Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 2310 Ingleside Ave, Macon, GA, United States, 31204.
5). Daphne’s 525
Daphne’s 525, a boutique that opened in 2013, with a focus on inclusion. They have sizes that range from infant to 3X in adults. Located at 420 Cherry St the boutique has a collection of dresses, tops, bottoms, jewelry, and more. April Maxwell opened the story in memory of her mother who passed away when she was 12. “Daphne’s 525 is not only a boutique,” Maxwell said, “But an experience. We are where fashion begins.” The downtown location is easy to access. “Make this a stop on your list next time you visit downtown Macon!” Emily Hopkins said in Google Reviews. “Daphne’s 525 has a variety of styles and sizes that are all super cute and different. Dennis and April are super nice and will help you find just what you’re looking for!” Daphne’s 525 is open from Tuesday to Friday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
All of these businesses have something to offer. Whether they have been around for decades or just a few years, these businesses add to the Macon community and provide the best to their customers. They help make Macon the colorful city it is today.
