With the revitalization of its neighborhoods and the flourishing of its arts scene, Detroit is more than just rebounding – it’s on the cusp of a renaissance. Central to this profound transformation is a dynamic and impassioned collective of Black coffee entrepreneurs. These business owners are not merely reshaping the city’s coffee culture – they’re also igniting a catalyst for change, nurturing a sense of community, and emboldening a new generation of visionaries, one cup of Joe at a time. This is the narrative that unveils how they’re “brewing while Black,” infusing every cup with the flavorful essences of culture and innovation.
Coffee is more than just a beverage. It’s a cultural experience that brings people together. In Detroit, this sentiment is being taken to heart by a group of visionary entrepreneurs. These individuals have embarked on a mission to transform coffee from a routine into a celebration, merging the art of coffee with the essence of Black culture.
Their cafés are not just places to grab a quick caffeine fix but rather hubs of cultural exchange. The decor, the music, and the atmosphere pay homage to the heritage of Detroit’s Black community, creating spaces where everyone, regardless of their background, can come together and appreciate the depth of the city’s history.
Through determination, innovation, and unwavering belief in their vision, they are breaking down barriers that have hindered progress for generations. They are proving that excellence knows no racial boundaries. By providing exceptional coffee and service, they are not just gaining customers, but they are also bridging gaps and changing perceptions. Each cup they serve is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship to reshape communities.
These coffee impresarios are living proof that dreams can become a reality with hard work, dedication, and a willingness to take risks. By sharing their stories and experiences, they are inspiring young individuals to pursue their passions, whether in the coffee industry or any other field they choose.
The Narrow Way Cafe & Shop: A Family’s Journey of Service
For over three decades, the Dean brothers, Johnathan and David Merritt watched their parents lead by example through their service to the Straight Gate International Church and the Detroit community. This upbringing instilled in them a deep appreciation for selfless service and unwavering support. In 2016, a transformation occurred. The church’s bookstore evolved into The Narrow Way Cafe & Shop, a haven catering to both physical and spiritual needs. By addressing the holistic well-being of their congregation and community, the café struck a resonant chord, embodying the ethos of their parents’ service.
“The purpose was to meet the needs of our congregation and community both physically and spiritually,” said David Merritt. “Our congregation fell in love with the product and service. We knew we were on to something.”
Driven by a profound affection for Detroit and its community, the siblings embarked on a mission to offer the city not just exceptional coffee but also a touch of care and devotion. Within the realm of Narrow Way, a collection of ground coffee, loose-leaf tea, and delectable baked goods is meticulously curated, each item infused with genuine affection. Above all, their overarching objective is to cultivate an atmosphere where patrons don’t merely find quality products but also experience a sense of esteem, gratitude, and a comforting kinship.
Rosa: A Legacy of Determination
Nestled on Detroit’s Westside, a café stands as a living tribute to the unwavering resolve and legacy of Rosa Malone. Rosa, the great-grandmother of Charity Dean, the visionary behind the café, etched her name in history as a pioneering Black homeowner in the Rosedale Park neighborhood in 1973. Faced with adversity and obstacles, Rosa and her husband Elijah exhibited unmatched determination, defying the odds to secure their place as homeowners. Over the course of 46 years, Rosa’s remarkable journey left an indelible imprint on the community, interweaving threads of resilience, heritage, and an unyielding drive to sculpt her own destiny.
Affectionately known as “Grandma’s house,” Rosa Café emanates an aura of warmth, comfort, and security. Owned predominantly by women and proudly bearing the mark of majority Black ownership, the café is steeped in an understanding of love, togetherness, and unity. It stands as a living embodiment of legacy, a space that feels like an extension of the love that Rosa herself must have radiated.
Rosa Café extends a diverse array of offerings, from a thoughtfully crafted selection of coffee and beverages to satisfying breakfast sandwiches. Beyond the menu, the café’s doors are open for events, exuding a welcoming and inclusive ambiance that encourages community connection. In the heart of Detroit, Rosa Café continues to be a beacon of resilience, a symbol of history, and a testament to one woman’s unwavering determination to carve her own path.
The Roasting Plant: Cultivating Detroit’s Tomorrow
In 2017, actor and advocate Hill Harper, who has made a name for himself not only in the entertainment industry but also in the realm of politics, made a resounding statement when he acquired downtown Detroit’s Roasting Plant Coffee. This move transcended his role as a brand ambassador; it marked his commitment to shaping Detroit’s future. Infused with an unshakable belief in the city’s vitality, Harper’s investment extended beyond the coffee beans.
Harper’s passion for positive change was already evident through his Manifest Your Destiny Foundation, a force dedicated to empowering underserved youth. In his pursuit to amplify impact, he seamlessly integrated his vision with the Roasting Plant’s mission. Through innovative job training initiatives, Harper expanded the coffee shop’s purpose to encompass more than just the aroma of freshly brewed coffee; it now carried the essence of growth, self-empowerment, and a tightly knit community.
The Roasting Plant, under Harper’s guidance, has evolved into a beacon of transformation, symbolizing Detroit’s resurgence and the potential that can be harnessed through collective dedication. Each cup of coffee served not only tantalizes taste buds but also serves as a reminder of the power of vision, dedication, and the indomitable spirit of a city determined to forge a brighter future.
“We believe in giving you the power to customize your coffee experience. We’ve got an amazing selection of carefully sourced beans, each with its own unique flavor profile.” said Harper.
Detroit Sip: Fostering Connections and Celebrating Local
Under the leadership of the remarkable Jevona Fudge Watson, Detroit Sip transcends being a mere coffee shop; it stands as a nucleus of community involvement and a haven for bolstering local enterprises. With a diverse array of offerings, spanning from invigorating coffee to premium teas, Detroit Sip encapsulates the very soul of the city.
The establishment enthusiastically takes part in events such as Shop Small Saturday and hosts vibrant pop-up markets, cultivating an atmosphere that exalts local entrepreneurs. Jevona’s journey, traversing from Detroit Public Schools to Michigan State University and ultimately to her leadership role at Detroit Sip, serves as a living embodiment of the city’s indomitable spirit of resilience and boundless aspiration.
Detroit Sip offers unique blended coffee and tea and even has exclusive Detroit products such as Better Made, Vernors, and Faygo. Dripping in Detroit culture, this welcoming spot feels just like home.
These four black-owned coffee shops in Detroit encapsulate the city’s essence – a history of overcoming challenges, a commitment to community, and an unwavering belief in the power of dreams. With each cup of coffee, they serve not only beverages but stories of strength, determination, and the vibrant spirit of a city that continues to rise, fueled by the dreams and efforts of its people.