Celebrating women-owned businesses in East Village for Women’s History Month

In honor of Women’s History Month, East Village is proud to celebrate the trailblazing female entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of the neighborhood.

These women-owned businesses are the backbone of the community, driving innovation, creativity, and success.

This month (and all year long), stop by and support these women-owned businesses and the remarkable women who have left their mark on the neighborhood.

Women at the Table:

With nearly 30 years in the food and beverage industry, Angie Weber is a key figure in the restaurant world. She founded Cowboy Star Restaurant & Butcher Shop in East Village, creating an award-winning destination known for contemporary American cuisine with a Western twist.

Chan Buie is the founder of Hey Sugar, a popular Southern dessert brand serving hotels, restaurants, and caterers, where each sweet is made from the heart. A natural in the kitchen from a young age, Buie sold homemade dishes to her peers in high school which unknowingly laid the groundwork for what would become a successful career in the culinary industry.

Jumi Pitiwartarlai has brought the authentic flavors of Northeastern Thailand’s Isaan region to San Diego through Sovereign Modern Thai. Everything is prepared from scratch to create a fusion between tradition and innovation, earning Sovereign Modern Thai Michelin guide recognition.

Marth Vega, the heart behind Vega Caffe, brings the flavors of Mexico to life with authentic tortas, burritos, quesadillas, and more. Her focus on quality and community has made Vega Caffe a popular spot for traditional Mexican cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

Michelle Jow founded Rikka Fika with a focus on simplicity and quality. Located in the Idea1 Apartments, Rikka Fika offers a curated selection of specialty coffee and matcha drinks. Jow’s selection of small-batch, seasonal baked goods and rotating pour-over menu sourced from international roasters complement the relaxing atmosphere.

With years of experience learning from Italy’s finest pasta makers, Serena Romano brought her and her husband’s love for the Slow Food movement to life with Monzu Fresh Pasta. Based in San Diego’s East Village, Monzu Fresh Pasta serves authentic, hand-made pasta and sauces in-house for everyone to enjoy.

Brewed by Her:

Jessica Pierce opened Ale Tales Taproom in January 2020 to combine great brews with comfort food. Since then, it has become a notable presence in San Diego’s craft beer scene, offering burgers, wings, creative twists on classics, and delicious vegan and gluten-free options.

Stephanie Lovi, Owner of East Village’s Knotty Barrel has shaped the space into a cherished community gathering spot. The venue offers a variety of craft beers and creative twists on classic dishes, alongside daily specials, weekend brunch, and a family-friendly kids’ menu, making it a popular choice for any occasion.

Wellness, Beauty and Beyond:

In 2012, Lizzy Broughton turned her vision into reality and launched Tailored Hair as a single-chair studio. Since then, Broughton has used her more than a decade of experience in men’s grooming and business management to grow her salon. Today, Tailored Hair Salon is sparking a movement of barbers who specialize in personalized, high-quality grooming.

Kim McLaughlin, owner of Invictus Fitness, has created a supportive community that goes beyond just being a gym. Invictus Fitness focuses on improving health, fitness, and nutrition, and McLaughlin and her team use programs like strength, conditioning, CrossFit, and Hyrox to help others reach their full potential.

Michelle Montoya’s The Glam Garage Salon has become the go-to place for all things beauty. Montoya and her team offer services ranging from hair and lash extensions to teeth whitening and makeup. Their top-notch services will make you look and feel amazing.

There’s a women-owned business for every need so take some time to support these female entrepreneurs in East Village this March.

A Look Ahead

Get ready for the ultimate celebration of baseball season at the 13th Annual East Village Block Party on Saturday, March 29 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.! Happening on J Street between 6th and 10th Avenues in front of Petco Park, this free, family-friendly event will be packed with excitement. Don’t miss out on local sports activations, classic car show, photo ops, and performances from local DJs and bands, who will keep the crowd rocking all day long!

Stroll through the streets, grab tasty bites, check out cool local vendors, and soak up the energetic atmosphere that makes East Village one of a kind. Mark your calendars for March 29 and bring the whole family for an unforgettable day of fun, food, and festivities.

For the latest updates on East Village Association, please visit us at eastvillagesandiego.com and follow us on Instagram @EastVillageSD, TikTok @EastVillageSD and X @EastVillageSD.