How It Works
Here's what partnering with us looks like:
- Final guest counts shared 48 hours in advance
- Pre-selected menu items that travel well
- Defined pickup windows
- Simple order summaries
- On-time payment
We build routes around restaurants... not the other way around
The principles that guide every partnership
What We Value
Clear Communication
Respect to kitchen flow
Cultural alignment
Professionalism
Community Pride
Interested in being considered for a future route?
Restaurant FAQs — Partnering with Clues & Culture
What is Clues & Culture?
Clues & Culture is a Black-woman-owned experiential food business that curates self-guided food routes featuring Black-owned restaurants.
Is this catering or delivery?
No. We are not catering or delivery. Food is pre-ordered, and guests pick it up during a scheduled window.
What does my restaurant need to do?
Participating restaurants:
- Prepare agreed-upon menu items
- Package food for pickup
- Have orders ready during a scheduled pickup window
No hosting, seating, or extra service is required.
How are menu items chosen?
Menu items are:
- Mutually agreed upon
- Selected to travel well
- Priced fairly
Discounts or complimentary food are not required.
How many orders will we receive?
Order volume varies by route. We:
- Share estimated quantities
- Confirm final numbers by a set cutoff time
- Do not send surprise or unconfirmed orders
How does pickup work?
- Pickups happen within a scheduled window
- We coordinate the process with your team
- Pickup is designed to be smooth and low-impact
How and when do we get paid?
- Payment terms are agreed upon in advance
- Payment is issued via ACH or Zelle
- Paid on a consistent schedule (weekly or within 7 days of the route)
We prioritize timely payment.
What happens if a route is canceled?
- If canceled before prep begins, no payment is owed
- If food has already been prepared, partial or full payment may apply
Are we required to promote Clues & Culture?
No. Promotion is optional.
With your permission, we may:
- Feature your restaurant on our website
- Tag you on social media
You're never required to post or discount food.
Who is responsible for food safety?
The restaurant remains fully responsible for:
- Food preparation
- Food safety
- Health department compliance
Clues & Culture does not handle or modify food.
Is this partnership exclusive?
Exclusivity is optional and discussed case-by-case.
How do we get involved?
You can express interest by:
- Completing our partner interest form
- Emailing us directly
- Sending us a DM on Instagram
Why partner with Clues & Culture?
- Exposure to intentional Buy Black customers
- Predictable, pre-ordered volume
- Minimal disruption to operations
- Community-centered storytelling