National Coffee Day: 4 Black Celebrities Brewing Up Success
National Coffee Day: 4 Black Celebrities Brewing Up Success Beyond Hollywood - Page 2
Who doesn’t like their coffee Black—and we’re not just talking about the brew.
For years, coffee culture has been more than a morning ritual—it’s a booming business and a cultural connector.
Now, Black celebrities are claiming their space in an industry long dominated by others. From Issa Rae’s Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen to Jadakiss’ Kiss Café, these brands aren’t just about lattes and beans; they’re about legacy, representation, and community.
In honor of International Coffee Day, we’re spotlighting the stars who are pouring their passion into coffee while showing how the bean has always been bigger than the brew in Black communities—as a space for creativity, entrepreneurship, and connection.
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1. Issa Rae – Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen
Source: Courtesy of Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen / other
Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen is more than just a spot to grab a latte—it’s a hub for community and creativity in Los Angeles. Founded by Yonnie Hagos and Ajay Relan, the café became a cultural staple when Issa Rae joined as a partner.
“It’s been such a pleasure to work with them and that has led to so many different ventures,” Issa Rae said in an interview on Delina Medhin’s podcast episode on June 10. “[It’s] such a great union.”
Her investment was inspired by her love of coffee shops as places to work, connect, and build.
Hilltop’s menu reflects this vision with signature blends and a welcoming vibe that resonates with the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
Fans can even buy Hilltop beans online, retailing for $21.30 and $24.75.
2. Angela Yee – Coffee Uplifts People (CUP)
Source: Courtesy of Coffee Uplifts People / other
Fill your CUP with this Brooklyn roast.
Radio personality Angela Yee launched Coffee Uplifts People (CUP) in 2020 with co-founders Tony Forte and LaRon Batchelor, aiming to transform the coffee industry through Diversity, Inclusion, Representation, and Equity (D.I.R.E.).
The company sources beans directly from growers in Ethiopia, Peru, Indonesia, Mexico, Kenya, and Brazil, roasting them locally in Brooklyn.
“It is a high premium quality coffee,” Angela Yee told ABC News’ Linsey Davis in 2021. “I stand so proudly behind coffee uplifts people (CUP).”
CUP believes coffee is a bridge between cultures and communities. The company also stands out for its 100% People of Color (POC) supply chain, ensuring impact across every layer of its operations.
Products are available at Amazon, Target, and Whole Foods for $21.95.
3. Rohan Marley – Marley Coffee
Source: Courtesy of Marley Coffee / other
One love, one heart—let’s get together and taste the brew.
Rohan Marley, entrepreneur, former Canadian football player, and son of reggae legend Bob Marley, launched Marley Coffee in 2007 to honor his family’s legacy.
According to the brand, Marley Coffee continues Bob Marley’s dream of connecting music, farming, and community through his son Rohan’s vision.
The brand emphasizes Fairtrade practices and supporting small farmers, ensuring their beans grow with social, economic, and environmental standards.
Fans can find Marley Coffee products on Amazon, Voilà by Sobeys, Costco Wholesome, and ECS Coffee, starting at $14.
4. Jadakiss & Styles P – Kiss Café
Source: Courtesy of Kiss Café / other
Jason Phillips, better known as rapper Jadakiss, inherited his passion for coffee from his father, Bob Phillips, who entered the business in 1977.
Today, three generations—the elder Bob, Jadakiss, and grandson Jaewon—run Kiss Café together.
The family-owned company honors legacy and quality with each roast.
Their signature Beijo blend is available in ground beans or single-serve pods for Keurig machines, priced between $10 and $18.75.
From cultivating community to honoring family legacies, these celebrity-owned coffee brands prove that coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a statement.
By investing in the industry, these stars are reclaiming space, reshaping representation, and ensuring that the next generation can sip with pride.
After all, for us, Black coffee isn’t just about how it’s brewed—it’s about how it’s owned, shared, and celebrated.
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