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A nomadic Haitian coffee shop is popping up all over Seattle
In a city whose identity is inextricably tied to coffee culture, a new nomadic coffee experience is bringing something fresh to Seattle, blending rich Haitian heritage with a strong sense of community. Bonhomie Coffee Bar, a Black and queer-owned mobile café, is redefining what it means to share a cup of coffee. Co-owned by Michelle and Victoria Dean, this Haitian-inspired coffee bar is educating patrons while simply serving delicious coffee.
Bonhomie (pronounced baa-nuh-mee) is an English word borrowed from French, meaning "cheerful friendliness." For Michelle, the name was destined. "I saw it in a book during business school and knew I would one day start a business called Bonhomie. It embodies warmth and community, and it even looks like bon zanmi, which means ‘good friend’ in Haitian Creole." That spirit of friendship and cultural pride is infused into every cup they serve.
The heart of Bonhomie Coffee Bar lies in its sourcing and flavors. Haiti, once the world’s largest coffee producer in the 1700s, has a deep-rooted history in coffee cultivation. Today, Michelle and Victoria are proud to support Haitian coffee farmers who are reviving this legacy. They pair these beans with handcrafted syrups inspired by the bold flavors of Haiti, offering an immersive coffee experience that transports customers to the Caribbean.
As first-time entrepreneurs, Michelle and Victoria quickly learned that bringing their vision to life came with challenges. "Nothing has gone as expected," Michelle admits. "The number of hoops to jump through to establish a food business is staggering. Even starting with just our mobile cart, the costs of permits, equipment, and building out the cart added up fast." Despite these hurdles, their dedication has paid off. Bonhomie Coffee Bar is already developing a loyal following, with regulars who return not just for the drinks but for the welcoming, joyful atmosphere.
For Michelle and Victoria, Bonhomie is more than a coffee bar; it's an opportunity for fostering community. "We love watching relationships grow. Strangers become regulars, and regulars become fanmi (family). That connection is what keeps us inspired," Michelle shares. Their pop-ups, residencies, and private events have become gathering spaces where people can bond over great coffee and culture. This is what motivates the partners to continue despite both having challenging "day jobs".
Looking ahead, Bonhomie Coffee Bar has big aspirations. "We hope to secure a permanent location within the next year. We’re actively searching for the right space and working on financing. Having a brick-and-mortar shop will allow us to serve not only coffee but also create a hub for cultural events and community engagement." Until then, they remain committed to sharing their love for Haitian coffee and connection through their mobile café.
As Bonhomie continues to grow, Michelle and Victoria remain grateful for the support of their community. "We’re so excited for what’s ahead. Thank you to everyone who has joined us on this journey. We can’t wait to keep brewing culture and building connections in Seattle."
Keep an eye out for their next pop-up and experience the warmth and vibrancy of Bonhomie for yourself!
Upcoming pop-ups:
4/13 - Pizza by Ruffin in SLU 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
4/20 - Pizza by Ruffin IN SLU 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
4/24 - Flora & Fauna in Pioneer Square 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
4/25 - Flora & Fauna in Pioneer Square 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
4/27 - Pizza by Ruffin in SLU 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
If you own a local business or would like to refer a business you love, please Let Us Know!
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