1. Undergrind- 2713 S Robertson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90034
A Hamilton student favorite, Undergrind offers a variety of refreshing drinks, delicious food, and even cute enamel pins. With a welcoming environment and cute decor, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy their yummy serving selections.
2. Happy Ice- 7324 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Satisfy your sweet tooth and combat the heat with Philadelphia water ice. Happy Ice’s wide assortment of flavors are all vegan friendly, dairy free, nut free, gluten free, and kosher, meaning everyone will be able to find something they enjoy.
3. Malik Books- 6000 Sepulveda Blvd Suite 2470, Culver City, CA 90230
Malik Books is an online and in person African American bookstore that specializes in books full of cultural diversity. Uplifting black voices and fostering representation in literature, Malik’s is an ideal location to find your next favorite read.
4. Janga by Derrick’s Jamaican Cuisine- 3850 Main St, Culver City, CA 90232
Only a six minute drive from Hamilton, Jangas has a comforting yet lively ambiance with incredible Jamaican dishes. Famous for their jerk chicken, patties, and oxtails, the establishment guarantees a flavorful and satisfying experience that will have you coming back for more.
5. Camille Rose
For anyone with textured hair, Camille Rose’s products are affordable and effective for any hair goals you want to meet. Their wide selection of products can be found on their direct to consumer website https://www.camillerose.com/ and in various retail stores such as Target, Ulta Beauty, and Rite Aid.
6. Sole Folks- 4317 Degnan Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90008
Best explained on their website, “Sole Folks is a retail incubator program for young designers and artisans from underserved communities under the non profit Sole Folks Community Development Corporation.” With a physical and an online store, Sole Folks offers everything from clothing and beauty products to coloring books, candles, and sneakers.
7. Sims Library of Poetry- 2702 W Florence Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90043
As the first black-owned poetry library in California, Sims Library of Poetry offers a selection of over 6,000 amazing literary pieces for the public. They also often host many fun community events such as open mic poetry nights and live music performances.
8. Neighbors Skate Shop- 4344 Degnan Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90008
At Neighbors Skate Shop, owners Trè and Cleon Array strive to “protect and preserve the legacy of our humble community here in Leimert Park through the love, energy and momentum of skateboarding.” Creating a supportive and safe space for skaters of color in their shop and its gatherings, Neighbors is a lovely space to connect with others.
9. Simply Wholesome- 4508 W Slauson Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90043
A juicery, restaurant, and full store, Simply Wholesome caters to all your needs. First established in 1984, the business has followed through with their motto of keeping customers “looking and feeling good,” with their various nutrient dense options.
10. Baba’s Vegan Cafe- 6619 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90047
Baba’s is a family owned establishment that specializes in African diasporic cuisine. Known best for their plethora of appetizing vegan options and patties, they are a perfect place to grab a healthy and comforting bite.