If Chipotle had a soulful, culturally rich cousin... it would be Spice Black. Period. I've been seeing this place all over social media, so when I found myself in the area, I had to see what the hype was about. First off, parking is easy. It's in a shopping center, so nothing stressful there, and the restaurant itself is easy to spot. Walking in, the first thing I noticed was how clean, polished, and classy everything looked. Even though it was busy, it didn't feel chaotic. The staff immediately greeted me and asked if it was my first time which I appreciated. They didn't just rush me through the line; they actually took time to explain the menu, how the bowls are built, and offered samples. That alone made the experience feel welcoming and intentional. Now let's get into the FOOD. Everything looked fresh. They have about four rice options (which is already a win), and I went with the pineapple coconut rice. For my protein, I chose grilled chicken, but they also offer shrimp, salmon, and even a mushroom option for vegetarians and honestly, the mushrooms looked so good I almost switched. For my added sides, I kept it simple because I really wanted to taste everything. Collard greens and sweet potatoes. But they also had plantains, and okra....real deal soul food options. Then you get into the fresh toppings. Slaws, carrots, pickled veggies. I kept it light. I finished my bowl with collard green pesto (which intrigued me, and I'm glad I tried it) and added an étouffée sauce over my rice... and listen!!!!! That combo? Chef's kiss. I grabbed a tropical punch juice, and just like everything else, it tasted fresh and well-made. Let me say this clearly: the food is a 10/10. If you're someone who will give Chipotle chance after chance, then you absolutely owe it to yourself to try Spice Black. 10/10. Worth your money. Worth the hype. Worth the experience. read more

Spiced Black - Grilled chicken, Sweet Potato Collard Green Pesto - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

This is a small restaurant that has minimal seating. But its cozy and allows you to pop in and enjoy your meal by yourself or with a few friends. The restaurant is nicely decorated with vibrant colors and very clean. The service is friendly and welcoming. The food was okay. Not bad and just good in my opinion. Its not rave worthy but its still good. I would come back and try other options. This is still a good healthier option oppose to the many of terrible choices we have to choose from, this beats most unhealthy fast foods restaurants. For that reason I would return to try other food options. If you like chickpeas then this is your meal, Im not so it threw off the salad to me. I would have preferred chicken. Honestly, everything came together nicely as one salad, nothing was over powering. I'm just not a fan of chickpeas. They do have an option for shrimp but dont eat bottom feeders so that wasn't an option for me. My tastebuds are much different from yours so I would still give it a try. You might like it a little more than me. Its still a fairly good meal. read more

Spiced Black - My leftovers - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

See all

In December a friend was in the area and asked me if I ever tried Spiced Black.. umm, have I ?!?! I've actually been a handful of times since they opened but it has honestly been a whole and about time that I actually write a review. This spot can get quite busy with folks picking up to go orders, but the line moves pretty fast. You can create your own bowl but with so many choices, I stick to my ole reliable Pineapple Coconut Curry Bowl while my friend got the Spicy Tomato Jollof. Both bowls are hearty, bursting with flavor and heavy. The Coconut Curry Bowl with Salmon added is creamy, nutty and a little sweet while the Spicy Tomato Jollof bowl with BBQ Chicken is tomato based has a rich flavor, vibrant color, and spicy. Our respective bowls were sooo good and were devoured quickly that I forgot to take a pic. This is a great change from Mezeh and Chipotle and tastier! read more

My bowl was super yummy. I got the mango jerk and added pineapple rice. I should've went with the brown rice because it got super sweet because of the mango salsa. A lot of avocado which was fine because I have been forcing myself to like it. I wish the salmon was a little bigger but it was seasoned well. The decor is great too, I definetly will be back for a tshirt. read more

Spiced Black - Mango Caribbean Jerk Salad with pineapple rice - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

This was my second time visiting this restaurant. I created my own bowl with half red rice / Jollof rice, etoufee sauce, half grilled chicken / shrimp, charred broccoli, red onions, green onions, and carrots. Customer service was excellent and every one was so friendly. I was in and out in less than 5 minutes. The cost is a bit high - $19 for my bowl... but it was well worth the price. Ithe portion sizes are great! I was able to split my bowl into 2 meals. I will come back for sure again. read more

Spiced Black - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

I visited this BOB with a friend as she raved about it for months. I was so glad to finally give it a try given its close proximity to my house. I love spicy foods. However, African spice and Thai spice are always on another level. Despite this I decided to order the Joloff rice bowl with chicken. It was so good but I couldn't enjoy it the way I wanted to because I just couldn't handle the spice from the sauce that I got on it. The flavors were there. The freshness was there. I will definitely return and not get the spicy sauce next time so that I can really enjoy it. read more

Bowl was so good I had to run it back! Yellow rice, salmon, greens, sweet potatoes and beets! With a side of BBQ chickpeas. My husband even asked me to get him my bowl this evening. They were out of the grilled oyster mushrooms! That was one of the main reasons I came back!! Coming off my juice cleanse and not feeling like cooking, Spiced Black is really making it easy for me. I opted for a salad bowl this evening and the ingredients were fresh and delicious! They didn't have cucumbers but I had some at home that I cut up and added to my salad. Portions were enough for me to have 3 salads lol Appreciated the veggie and vegan options! Will definitely be a go to for us! Happy Yelping! read more

See all

Thankful to have something like this in the area. Delicious, fresh, healthy, inexpensive eats. I ordered the jambalaya ettoufee and will definitely get that again. The kale lemonade was so so good! U could taste the kale and it was a nice fresh twist on the lemonade. I raved about it so much, my parents went the next day and sang praises on their bowls too (they had different things). Hopefully Spiced Black stays around! read more

(3.5 stars) This was pretty good I definitely love the concept...but I didn't like the rice. I got the Spicy tomato Jollof (minus the pickled habaneros) with grilled chicken and mushrooms (1/2 & 1/2 protein). The flavors and spice was good, but the rice was just too wet for me. And it wasn't wet because of the sauce...I could tell it was wet before they even served it in my bowl. And on top of that, there's a spicy tomato sauce that goes on the bowl, so then it was just swimming lol I've only had authentic jollof rice once and it wasn't wet like that. I dunno what's traditional for jollof, but in general, I don't like wet rice. The mushrooms also had a really weird texture. They were way too chewy...I kept chewing and chewing and chewing and eventually just spit them out. So that was a disappointment. The plantain was good and like I like them--warm, sticky and sweet (pause). The grilled chicken was good, too. Sort of reminded me of the grilled teriyaki chicken that you get at a mall food court But like I said, the flavors were good. The portion size is honestly ridiculous lol I could only eat half my bowl, and I had to push to get that down. Customer service was also great--two young ladies at the front who greeted me with a smile, offered me samples, asked about my day, etc. I felt cared for walking out. read more

See all

Spiced Black never disappoints. It is my go to spot whenever I am in the Largo area. I always order the Caribbean mango jerk salad with barbecue chicken and plantain chips. Since I do not like avocado, I ask for extra mango salsa. Trust me, you will not be disappointed. Whenever I want a healthy option that still tastes incredible, Spiced Black is the first place that comes to mind. The flavors and spices are unmatched, and for the price you get a generous portion. The staff is always friendly and helpful, and the restaurant is clean with great aesthetics. I love this place for the culture and will continue supporting. read more

Spiced Black - Mango Caribbean Jerk Salad with bbq chicken - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

Conceptually unique! I never thought I'd come across a place like this. Usually with places like this, you have to try it a second time to figure out what is best to you. However, I didn't experience that. I had a modified BBQ Southern Bowl and I would re-order it again in a heartbeat. The bowl did look a bit iffy but all the flavors were coming together beautifully. I could do without the cornbread croutons. This place is definitely not something I would get daily or even weekly as I felt like I'd become unhealthy if I did. Let's hope the next time I go is just as good as the first! read more

Spiced Black - BBQ Southern Soul Bowl - Modified - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

Hubby and I tried this space together. The gentleman pictured serving here was so happy that we came and he mentioned it a few times. That was the highlight of the visit. The customer service was amazing and they wanted you to know that they were privileged for our service. I love that! It was a nice spin on Cava/Chipotle meets Soulaan. I was pleased with the habanero peppers and the flavors. Try it out! read more

See all

I went to spiced black today looking for something fresh and flavorful and thats what I got, I did a build your own bowl with curly kale as my base- bbq chickpeas as my protein, and my 3 toppings I selected were charred broccoli, sweet potato, and mango salsa , and then spring-green onion , with the curry coconut dressing the bbq chickpeas were sweet and mild with a nice vinegary undertone, the mango salsa was fresh with the jalapeños and red onion adding some heat and the red bell pepper adding brightness, the charred broccoli firm and flavorful and not giving off a flavor that was burnt but actually charred the sweet potatoes were warm and creamy, the kale crunchy and the coconut curry vinaigrette really brought it altogether my only critique is upon reviewing my receipt and I could be wrong but there seemed to be an upcharge of $2 for choosing bbq chickpeas as my protein, something I thought would be included especially considering that it wasn't a speciality meat or anything like that but otherwise a very enjoyable bite and I would go again read more

Spiced Black - Build your own bowl - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

See all

My God tuhdayy! That. Was. Amazing! Today was the first time I've experienced this gem. The service was excellent. Very detailed and attentive. I selected the pineapple, coconut curry rice bowl and I added plantain and grilled shrimp- no cashews. The tropical fruit punch, which is all natural and sweetened with agave is so so good. I got a banana rum cake, but I can't go near it yet. I will be scratching at the door to come back! Next time, I will wear elastic pants. read more

Spiced Black - How it started. - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

See all

Had to stop in and try. After watching people come out with bags of goodness, I knew I was in the right place. The food is fresh and presented nicely. Orders are assembled quickly and the staff is friendly and welcoming. Ambiance is mellow with a cool vibe of music, Not loud inside and conversations between staff and customers makes for a very pleasant healthy meal experience. An order of Cajun Jambalaya Étouffée Bowl with half chicken and half seafood (shrimp) and their Mango Caribbean Jerk Salad with grilled salmon were great starters for my first visit! read more

Spiced Black - Motto - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

The food is spectacular. The best of both worlds soulful and healthful. I love US. The staff make you feel like you are getting a plate from the home of your kinfolk. Hearty portions that make you glad you choose to invest in this black owned business. It's a warm homey ambiance that you'll be excited to bring a friend to over and over again. read more

Flavorful, custom made bowl with tasty ingredients. My bowl consisted of the following: jollof rice and pineapple coconut rice, sofrito and spicy tomato sauce, bbq chickpeas, mango salsa, charred okra and broccoli and the citrus and jerk vinaigrettes on the side. Everything that was platted onto the bowl was deliciously tasteful. The spices were there! I actually preferred the jerk vinaigrette dressing over the citrus vinaigrette, but honestly, the bowl is flavorful enough alone that you could do without the dressing. The service was quick and efficient. The associates greeted me upon walking in and made sure that I was taken cared of. It was a great experience and I will definitely check in again to try more of their tasty foods. read more

See all

Early this month, I visited Spiced Black for the 2nd time this year. It's always a vibe and they give great customer service. Especially, as soon as you walk in they greet you . I was using a gift card that I received for my wedding. I brought my twin sister who was visiting. We had two bowls and a drink and it came to about $50. You are paying a higher price for it's worth every penny and very filling. It's plenty of parking. read more

I love coming to this place to grab flavorful, fast casual food. I have yet to visit and there's no line. This is my Cava and Chipotle replacement. I especially enjoy the variety of vegetables and non beef or pork protein options, although there is beef in the chicken sausage casing. read more

Spiced Black - Menu - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

Spiced Black was an outstanding experience from start to finish! The customer service was absolutely impeccable--warm, attentive, and welcoming. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with genuine smiles and such positive energy. And the food? Simply incredible. Every bite was full of flavor and clearly made with care. The atmosphere was just as amazing, making it the perfect spot for a great meal and even better vibes. Also I recommend the spicy tomato jollof but they have alot of options you will definitely luv this place. read more

Spiced Black - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

See all

The Black version of Cava but better! Spiced Black has been on my list for a minute but I'm rarely in that area. Well today, I wasn't too far away from it so I made a detour to finally try this amazing spot! I went in planning to order the yellow rice and bean sofrito signature creation but then I decided to put a twist on it. Instead of yellow rice, I got jollof rice and then I added collard greens. It was so freaking delicious and the portion size was perfect! The guy starting my bowl asked if it was my first time and if I had any questions. I asked him his thoughts on my yellow for jollof rice swap and he said it sounded great. I had a few questions for almost everyone as my bowl made it down the assembly line and they were all kind and patient. While the restaurant is a fast casual type spot, it still has some seating available should you wish to dine it. I will say I thought the price would be more like $15 so I was surprised when it rang up as $19. Either way, it was bomb and I'll definitely be eating there again. read more

Spiced Black - Jollof rice, adobo shrimp, collard greens, red beans, avocado, plantains, sofrito sauce - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

Listen.. if you're looking for a healthy and wholesome food option this place is the truth. As someone who tries to stay away from a-lot of junk and processed foods, the food here is fresh option to choose from. The restaurant is centered around black heritage foods and is perfect for someone with a colorful diet. If you're in a rush, certain days can get really busy and there might be a wait since the staff has a hard time keeping up with orders but they're always nice despite being busy and greet everyone as they walk through the door. Despite things being hectic they always seem in great spirits. Their Mango Caribbean Jerk with Salmon, avocado , mango salsa , and plantain chips over salad is a go to of mine & of course just like cava or chipotle you can add to your bowl but personally this place is towards the top of my list. I definitely look forward to exploring the menu more often. read more

Spiced Black - Mango Caribbean Jerk Salad - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

I finally made it here! I decided to check them out since they are so close to my area. I was overwhelmed with what to choose. They welcomed me, broke down the menu, and they were so patient with me as I decided. Such a warm and welcoming environment. I finally decided on the pineapple coconut curry with shrimp. I was so surprised how delicious it was!! It was well seasoned and everything in the bowl was a hit. I will absolutely return to try more options on the menu!! Great experience! I highly recommend! read more

Spiced Black - Pineapple Coconut Curry Bowl with shrimp! 10/10 - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

Discovered this place by accident but, BAABY! I been hooked ever since. The service, food taste and food quality is so exceptional that I visit at least 2-3 times a month. Finally, a restaurant that stands behind quality food and great customer service. The place is also very clean. Favorites are the BBQ Southern Soul Bowl and the Sweet Potato Collard Green Pesto Salad. read more

Not sure how I missed reviewing Spiced Black. I visit at least monthly...very few places offer what Spiced Black does...I've come in person, delivery, carry-out, online ordering...and it's all the same....no decline in quality or service. One bowl is enough for two meals...a kids bowl is indeed plenty for the little ones. I've tried both the named bowls and the custom and prefer the custom....heck I even got so adventurous that I tried the mushrooms and they were fire too. If you are doing carry out bring your id or at least a photo on your phone. There is often a small line but it goes quick. There are a few places to sit inside and easy parking right out front. Spiced Black is worth a 30 min drive easily....true gem in PG county for sure....if you are around...stop in for a soul bowl indeed read more

Staff is friendly and helpful, place is clean and inviting, and the food is off the hook! The sauces are so good (depth of flavor) that it's hard to choose- the coconut curry, etoufee and sofrito are standouts. The salmon, shrimp and BBQ chickpeas are great, the cabbage- don't overlook the cabbage! The collard greens are soggy or overdone, they're sweet and crisp and well cooked. The jollof rice is also a treat. My son and I enjoyed the cucumber mint lemonade as a balance to the spice in the jerk dressing. All around fabulous. read more

Spiced and smoky! The food here was seasoned to perfection with a delicious smoky kick--exactly what I needed after a long day at work. I'll admit I was a little skeptical when my fiancé pulled up because I'm not a fan of my food mixing too much, but the staff happily gave me my greens on the side, which I really appreciated. My only regret? Not trying even more dishes! I'll definitely be back. What we tried: Red rice w/ Étouffée sauce -- 10/10!!! Grilled chicken -- solid 8/10 Grilled shrimp -- solid 8/10 Plantains -- 8/10 Collard greens -- 8/10 (fiancé: 7/10) Curry cabbage -- 7/10 Jollof rice w/ sofritto sauce -- 8.5/10 (fiancé: 9/10) BBQ chickpeas -- 6.5/10 (fiancé: 7/10) Salmon -- 5.5/10 My only little recommendation would be a "fussy eaters box" with compartments for those of us who like our items separate--but that's totally personal preference. I really love their quick counter-service style and the overall vibe. Highly recommend checking it out! read more

See all

Yum. Delish. Excellent service. Healthy options. Today was our first time but it will not be our last. Hubby and I both got the Pineapple coconut curry with salmon. I added beats, mango salsa and broccoli. The hubby added mushrooms and mango salsa. So much flavor. So much food. Don't bother going anywhere else. This place is sooo good. Nice vegetarian options and if you want uou can add salmon or shrimp. This is a lovely delicious gem in PG County. read more

First spot my husband and I tried in the area, amazing service and the food was delicious! Skip the Chipotle across the street and try this out, you won't regret it! Happy 2 Year Anniversary! I hope to see y'all continue to stand strong! read more

Spiced Black - Great way to honor the culture with this creative post-it board! - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

I found this restaurant on IG, and when I say they did not disappoint! I went with two other friends and we explained to the young lady behind the section that this was our first time at this location so she told us that we can try any of the food we wanted. She was so sweet. She was very patient with us I will definitely and have gone back. The vibes inside of the storefront was very tropical. It gave us soul food/Caribbean feel to it and the drinks and the snacks by the register is a must have. read more

Spiced Black - Menu - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

In the mood for a cuisine in the Black diaspora but don't quite know what you want to go for? Build yourself a bowl at Spiced Black and you're in for a treat. They've got Cajun options, Southern options, African options, Caribbean options, and more. They have some recommended salad and rice bowls, but you can really make whatever you want, and it can be loaded. Some of my favorite options are the soft and crunchy plantain, the BBQ chickpeas, the pineapple coconut rice, and of course the jerk vinaigrette. Add meats like salmon or chicken to anything for even more extra delight. It's hard to determine peak times because one minute it can be empty, but then another minute the line can have 10 people haha -- but thankfully it moves quickly. And shout out to the kind and patient staff. When building your own bowl it can easily become a challenge to determine what you may want to get, but they always answer questions and offer suggestions. It may or may not be a secret, but the rum cakes they have come all the way from Indian Head... Honey Bun Cake Factory. If you like those cakes you should see what else they have down there! Hope Spiced Black continues to do well. read more

I am going to leave a review because they have earned it on four levels: 1. Customer service 2. Price point 3. Taste 4. Food Quality In a time when we are getting less for our money, I don't mind driving 30 minutes each way and paying $20 for something that is nutritious AND will last me for at least TWO meals!! I am tired of people giving me "6 wings" for $16 when they are really on 3 cut up. Come here and get your money worth! read more

Spiced Black - Grilled chicken is on the bottom, sweet potato, plantain, collard greens, and a little bit of corn. - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

Bursting with flavor!! On this (my 2nd visit), instead of winging it, I chose a menu item -- the Yellow Rice & Bean Sofrito Bowl --and added the suggested Adobo Shrimp. I also added spring onions on top -- just because I love onions. This dish was a fantastic. The mixture of textures and flavors complimented each other. In this bowl, there was also avocado, plantains, and then plantain chips on the top. I was very pleased. Service: greeted upon entering and although everyone was busy preparing orders, it felt very inviting. I asked a lot of questions, and the server was patient and accommodating while assisting me with my selection. Ambiance: more of a carry out with a few seats, nice decor, well lit, easy to read menu. Ooops almost forgot -- well I did forget a beverage with my order, but before leaving the store, i selected the kale lemonade. This was sooo good! Tart with a little sweetness. Will be returning regularly. read more

Spiced Black - Yellow Rice & Bean Sofrito Bowl + Adobo Shrimp + spring onions - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

I beg your finest pardon?!! Whose idea with this? This food and concept is absolutely brilliant...and absolutely delicous. A soul food chipotle is the easiest way I can describe it. I walked right in during the lunch hour on a Wednesday and was promptly greeted. I got the soul bowl as is with bbq chicken. I really appreciated that they had both grain-based and greens-based bowl options. I will be back within 24-48 hours to try another bowl, because this one was absolutely delicious. The space was clean, beautiful, well staffed, and a had 5 or so other customers eating at table. The only complaint I have is that there isn't a location closer to Suitland, MD. Wow!! read more

See all

I was a first timer and I very impressed with the quality of the food. I had a spicy curry coconut grilled chicken bowl that was amazing, yes I created my own bowl and u can do the same. I will be back read more

This is my second time here and second review. I tried the Cajun Jambalaya bowl. My my my, it was so good. I loved the roux on the rice. It was very special. I am not a fan of okra but I ate it anyway and it wasn't bad. I think place is special and I plan to keep going back. I am excited to try some of the other rice bowls. I had to wait on line this time because the word is getting out about this spot. I love the ambiance because of their mural, it's so beautiful! read more

Spiced Black - Cajun Jambalaya Etoufee Bowl - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

I don't know if there's enough positive things I can say about this place. I originally heard about it on TikTok and decided to give it a try because it's similar to the other "create your own bowl" places but with a Caribbean and southern twist to it. Phenomenal. I ordered the bbq southern soul which is rice, sweet potato, collard greens,and cornbread croutons. The recommendation is you get bbq chicken with this bowl so I did and man. I was too sad when I got to my last couple of bites! It was so good especially those cornbread croutons! Will definitely be back. read more

Spice Black isn't new to the neighborhood, but it's new to me and I'm so glad I finally checked it out. The food was absolutely amazing. It's healthy, flavorful, and really filling. I was a little unsure about the price at first, but once I saw the portion and tasted everything, it made perfect sense. I couldn't even finish my bowl. What makes this place even more special is that it represents the Black diaspora in such a powerful and delicious way. More neighborhoods need food like this and spaces like this. I highly recommend it. Five out of five. Ten out of ten. I will definitely be back. The staff was super friendly, inviting, and informative too! read more

I managed to get there right before the afternoon rush so service was great, the food is amazing and since it was my first time there I tried to get a little piece of everything since it low key feels like a thanksgiving spread...everything was giving, there was a single thing that disappointed. The best way I could describe this place is soul food meets chipotle concept. read more

Spiced Black - A scoop of everything - Soul Food Near Me - Upper Marlboro, Maryland

I stopped into this place for the second time today. The first time I went I got it to go and ate at home about an hour and a half away and it was great. Today I had the pleasure to eat in person and it was absolutely divine. The menu is robust, with many vegan and vegetarian options. In fact, their entire menu can be made vegan minus the etoufee. Absolutely to die for. I got the yellow rice bowl which was jam packed with rice, beans, carmalized plantains, avocado, and I opted to add the mango salsa and collard greens. I've had quite a bit of soul food and this place was just the bomb. Staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate. Can't wait to come back! read more