USA Today Names 1010 Wine Best Wine Bar in America
USA Today has crowned 1010 Wine and Events as the Best Wine Bar in America for 2025. The Inglewood-based bar is the first and only Black woman–owned wine bar in the city, making the win both historic and inspiring.
Located at the intersection of La Brea and Centinela, 1010 Wine stands out for more than just its luxury feel. The establishment carries the largest selection of Black-owned wine brands in the country, including celebrity labels like Taraji P. Henson’s Seven Daughters and Issa Rae’s Viarae Prosecco.
Celebrating Black-Owned Excellence in Wine
USA Today praised 1010 Wine for its impressive wine list and its unique menu inspired by the African diaspora. Guests enjoy dishes like black-eyed pea fritters, champagne waffles with fried chicken, Nigerian-style suya beef skewers, and more. The blend of food and culture has turned the space into a community landmark.
Co-owner Le Jones reflected on the recognition, saying: “We’re very grateful for it. We’re very excited. It’s kind of surreal.” For Le and her sister Leslie, this award is not only a personal victory but also a win for representation in an industry where Black ownership is rare.
From Pandemic Struggles to Community Success
The Jones sisters opened 1010 Wine in 2021, shortly after the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Le, a trademark attorney, and Leslie, an event planner, wanted Inglewood residents to have an upscale wine experience without leaving the community.
“When we first walked into this space, it was really hard to imagine it to look like what it does now,” Le shared. “And so now the fact that thousands of people have walked in and out of these doors over these four years is a huge accomplishment for us.”
Building a Legacy in Inglewood
The sisters purchased and transformed a 10,000-square-foot building into a vibrant hub for wine, food, and live entertainment. Over the past four years, 1010 Wine has become more than a bar — it is a community space that celebrates culture, entrepreneurship, and resilience.
By winning this award, the Jones sisters hope to inspire more entrepreneurs to invest in their neighborhoods. Their story highlights the power of representation and the importance of creating spaces where culture and business meet.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
1010 Wine is now more than a local favorite — it is a national example of success. Membership in the 1010 Wine Club allows wine lovers across the U.S. to experience curated selections of Black-owned wines, starting at $130 per month.
This recognition shines a light on the contributions of African Americans in the wine industry. Despite owning less than 5% of wine companies, Black entrepreneurs like Le and Leslie Jones are setting new standards and inspiring others to follow.
