Support Our City

San Jose’s first Black-owned coffee shop, founded by sisters Jeronica Macey and Be’Anka Ashaolu, uses the power of coffee and tea to bring people together. Nirvana Soul is a spiritual retreat bringing exciting flavor, creative artistry, and bold inspiration to customer’s daily lives. Preaching #selfcareinacup, they strive to make San Jose one of the most exceptional places to indulge for coffee.

Culture Night Market, founded by Brandon Quintanilla, provides an opportunity for the community of San Jose to gather and celebrate the distinct culture of the city through food, art, and music. Started in October 2020, in response to the financial hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the event is designed to empower small businesses, local entrepreneurs, and artists by delivering a stream of income during challenging times and beyond.

Relentless Boxing was founded by former professional boxer, Arturo Quintero. After being featured on the undercard for marquee fights, including Marquez vs. Pacquiao and Morales vs. Chavez, Arturo took his passion for boxing and joy of teaching to a new endeavor, opening Relentless Boxing in 2010. Relentless Boxing has become part of the Santa Clara community, where Arturo still teaches students “the sweet science” and helps them get in the best shape of their lives.

Habana Cuba was founded by chef and owner Jennifer Echeverri over 20 years ago. Initially located on Race Street, the popular Cuban restaurant moved into a revamped, counter-style setting inside SoFA Market in 2018. The urban eatery is grounded in community, with comfort food evoking the love of a grandmother’s cooking, and generous portions of authentic cuisine honoring family tradition.

Born from a desire to leave a positive impact on the planet, Ashley Merz founded The Source Zero to provide a resource for people looking to limit their plastic footprint. The shop in San Pedro Square Market features a soap refill bar and other daily essentials that are earth conscious, locally made, and crafted for longevity. Bringing together women-owned small businesses with an aligned mission, The Source Zero offers a judgement-free education zone on sustainable living.

Culture Cutz was founded in 2017 by owner Juan Carlos Leal. Starting by cutting friends’ hair in his own home at age 17, Juan Carlos had a natural talent and developed a passion for giving people the perfect cut. His other passion is soccer, and with several Quakes players as loyal customers, he is able to keep both passions alive right in San Jose.

Family owned by Eric and Alysia Rebugio, Biscuits is a niche boutique offering natural and organic products for dogs and cats. The shop is located in the heart of Japantown and features special baked goods like cookies and cakes, as well as toys, accessories, and more. A real treat for one’s furry friends!

Kristen Welch and Poli Aki have been capturing special moments in and around San Jose since starting their business in 2013. Taking pride in helping guests create an incredible photo experience, TapSnap celebrates memorable occasions and provides a printed keepsake worthy of hanging on the refrigerator door.

Iguehi James first used a sewing machine in 2015 to make her own clothes. Now her custom clothing store, Love Iguehi, offers customers strikingly colorful and beautifully bold African Ankara prints, hand-crafted to showcase both her Oakland roots and Nigerian heritage.

Recycle Bookstore first opened its doors in 1967 on the Alameda. Now under the ownership of Cynthia and Eric Johnson, the San Jose institution added a second location in downtown Campbell in 2004, carrying 150,000 books across the two stores.

Ovolo Interiors is committed to improving quality of life through good design. With owner Greg Ripa paying close attention to clients’ needs, personalities, tastes, and lifestyles, Ovolo Interiors has been awarded a “best in service” prize five years in a row.

Cookies N Cream is committed to bringing more smiles into the world one scoop at a time. Proudly owned by Pele Cao, the popular ice cream truck has been spreading positivity throughout the San Jose community since 2014.

A staple in Japantown since 2011, Headliners started with a focus on hats designed for sports and streetwear but expanded into apparel and other accessories. Owned by My Nugyen, the store grew into a bigger space in 2018 serving loyal customers their quality custom products.

World of Sport Memorabilia, owned by brothers Tito and Alonso Hernandez, is a sports collectables store with a range of products from autographed jerseys to custom commemorative framing. The brothers recently opened a new flagship location in Westgate Center to showcase their broad collection.

Newly opened in downtown San Jose, Axe-Men Throw House offers a unique experience for corporate outings, league play, or a truly memorable first date. Husband and wife duo Matt Bird and Sarah Sed own the business and help people release their inner lumberjack/Jill.

Lulu’s House of Flowers combines owner Ruby Acosta’s passion for beautiful, sustainable locally sourced flowers with her deep passion to help animals. Ruby works in partnership with a nonprofit animal rescue group and donates 100% of her profits.

Hobee’s Restaurant has been serving fresh, delectable food across the Silicon Valley since 1974. First working as employees, husband and wife duo Camille and Daniel Chijate became owners in 2017. They’ve now been delivering fast and friendly service in a casual, homey atmosphere for over 28 years.