AFRO Intern
Black Restaurant Week began on July 13 and will run through July 27, encouraging residents to support Black-owned establishments throughout the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area. For many West African restaurant owners, the week is more than an opportunity to increase business– it’s a chance to introduce customers to authentic West African cuisine while sharing the traditions and stories behind every meal.
AJ’s Restaurant and Carryout, located at 4405 Belair Rd. in Baltimore, is owned by Euloge Bathily. Known to customers as “AJ,” his business is in operation Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
For him, the journey to success has been anything but easy…