It is often said that ‘the more things change, the more they stay the same’, a saying that rings true when one delves into Detroit’s history. This history, a tapestry rich with the thriving music and dining scene, was once the heartbeat of the city, dominated by the black community. Fast forward to today, and it’s clear: that resurgence, that vibrant spirit, is certainly upon us once again.
With a triumphant nod to this legacy, the Rivertown neighborhood of Detroit welcomes a new beacon of cultural revival: CRED Café. This establishment is not just a business venture; it’s a heartfelt homage to the city’s enduring spirit. Backed by a $60,000 Motor City Match grant, CRED Café is the brainchild of former NBA athletes and siblings, Joe and Jordan Crawford, in collaboration with their family.
This unique café is a mosaic of past and present. By day, it serves as a coffee shop, offering an array of fresh coffee options and pastries, sourced from Coffee Uplifts People, owned by renowned radio personality Angela Yee. But as night falls, the café transforms. Hidden behind a discreet door lies a speakeasy, reminiscent of the clandestine bars from the Prohibition era, offering a touch of history with a modern twist. The space also doubles as a stylish bar and event area, accommodating up to 75 people.
The genesis of CRED Cafe is rooted in the Crawford brothers’ vision, inspired by their global travels in professional basketball. Noticing a lack of similar fusion spaces in Detroit, they envisioned transforming their family-owned event space into this unique establishment. Their mother, Sylvia Crawford, fondly recalls conversations during school drives, discussing Detroit’s potential and instilling in her sons the desire to contribute to the city’s resurgence. Today, those conversations have manifested into a tangible contribution to Detroit’s revival.
“Our story is one of passion, commitment and a genuine desire to contribute to Detroit’s growth,” said Mrs. Crawford, who also serves as the cafe’s president and CEO. “We started with a dream and transformed a vacant, blighted building into a multifaceted space that reflects the spirit of our community.”
With the recent ribbon-cutting ceremony, graced by Mayor Mike Duggan and the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), CRED Café stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and potential of Detroit. It’s a place where history meets modernity, where community gathers, and where the legacy of the city’s rich black cultural heritage continues to thrive and inspire.
It’s vital to note, it’s no secret that Detroit is buzzing with anticipation for the NFL Draft coming this April, a catalyst for an array of new developments, restaurants, and venues springing up across the city. Yet, amidst this bustling wave of new beginnings, the launch of CRED Café strikes a more personal chord. This isn’t just another new business riding the wave of the city’s renewal. For the Crawford family, especially NBA veterans Joe and Jordan, this cafe has been a dream brewing for years.
“This wasn’t easy, it was a lot, so I appreciate my family sticking together to make this happen,” expressed Jordan.
Growing up in Detroit, the Crawford brothers have walked the same streets, became accustomed to the same local hangouts, and experienced the city’s highs and lows just like any other Detroit native. Their journey from local basketball courts to the international stage of the NBA and back to their roots in Detroit resonates deeply with the community. The Crawford brothers haven’t just observed Detroit’s evolution; they’ve lived it. Officially opened to the public located at 6340 E. Jefferson Ave., their return to establish CRED Café is a homecoming, a testament to their enduring bond with the city.
“It has been a long but beautiful process especially being able to do it in the city of Detroit, a city that we love so much,” said Joe. “I really do appreciate this moment, it’s a surreal feeling.”
Their journey, from growing up in the city’s neighborhoods to achieving NBA fame and returning to contribute to their hometown, mirrors the resilience and community spirit that defines Detroit. CRED Café isn’t just about great coffee or a unique ambiance; it’s a testament to the enduring bond between a family and their city, a reminder that amidst the rapid changes and exciting new beginnings, there are stories of deep, personal significance taking shape.
Their understanding of Detroit’s character is not from an outsider’s perspective but from a deeply personal one. They know the favorite spots where residents gather, the challenges the community faces, and the unyielding spirit that keeps the city moving forward. This intimate connection is what makes CRED Café more than just a business venture; it’s a space that mirrors the soul of Detroit, crafted by those who call it home.
“This is a testament that you can do what you dream,” expressed Mrs. Crawford.
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