On a sunny Sunday, June 21, 2026, the streets of South Berkeley came alive with the spirit of Juneteenth. The annual celebration of Black liberation and community drew hundreds, offering a vibrant mix of jazz, dance, and, most importantly, a diverse array of culinary delights. Among the attendees were two eager food enthusiasts, armed with appetites and a mission to sample the best the event had to offer.
From the savory aromas of African spices to the smoky allure of barbecue, the Juneteenth celebration was a feast for the senses. Here’s a closer look at the culinary journey that awaited those who ventured through the bustling street fair.
African Flavors Take Center Stage
Kemi Tijaniqudus, the founder of Jollof Kitchen, brought a taste of West Africa to Berkeley. Her catering business, established in 2012, has been a staple at local events, including her brother’s nightclub, Air Lounge. At Juneteenth, Tijaniqudus served up her signature jollof chicken rice plate a dish that has become a favorite among locals.
The $20 plate was a hearty combination of jollof rice simmered in a spiced tomato sauce with bell peppers, paired with a sauce-glazed chicken drumstick and crispy plantain. The rice had a robust, tomato-forward flavor, while the chicken was the star of the show, offering a savory bite that rounded out the plate perfectly.
BBQ with a Purpose
Rochean Chatman, the owner of Do it Moving BBQ, brought his unique blend of St. Louis-style ribs to the celebration. Chatman’s journey began 12 years ago with a small propane camp stove and a few hotlinks, grilling for residents in the Tenderloin. Today, his business has grown, and his mantra, do it moving reflects his determination to keep pushing forward.
The $25 combo plate at Do it Moving BBQ offered a choice of meats, including the standout St. Louis-style ribs. Smoked and dry-rubbed with a house blend of spices, the ribs were fall-off-the-bone tender. Chatman’s tangy barbecue sauce added a sweet and savory balance that left a lasting impression.
Seafood and Sweet Treats
For those looking to switch things up, Cousins Maine Lobster, an LA-based food truck founded by cousins Jim Tselikis and Sabin Lomac, offered a taste of New England. After gaining national attention on Shark Tank, the brand expanded to multiple states, bringing classics like lobster rolls and clam chowder to the Bay Area.
At the Juneteenth celebration, the lobster grilled cheese was a standout item. Layered with buttery Texas-style toasted bread, melted pepper jack and cheddar, and generous chunks of tender lobster meat, the $21 dish also included a portion of crispy tater tots, making it a hearty and satisfying choice.
To round out the culinary journey, Cinnaholic Berkeley provided a sweet treat. After a brief closure, the shop reopened in in a food court on Hearst Avenue, right across from the UC Berkeley campus. Owned and operated by siblings Shannon Zamfirescu and Kevin Slocum, Cinnaholic offers a build-your-cinnamon roll experience.
The $7 cinnamon roll allowed for customization with sprinkles, frosting, and marshmallows. The gooey, messy, and cinnamon-forward roll was a delightful finish to the day. For an additional $3.75, the Cinnadoodle cookie provided a soft, chewy treat to enjoy later.
