Coffee shop, Baptist church, or flower shop? Those are the vibes I get when I walk into Bloom and Plume, a Black-owned cafe located in the Westlake neighborhood of Los Angeles. Bloom and Plume is the brainchild of Maurice Harris, a local florist, and artist whose work has been featured in various media outlets, including ESSENCE and Complex. I’m still playing tourist in my new city and stumbled across Bloom and Plume while scrolling on Instagram, looking for ways to support more small businesses in the area.

Bloom and Plume is truly one of it’s kind. The bright and bold color scheme and decor reminiscent of my childhood made me feel right at home. The music! The Black colloquialisms. The warm and friendly customer service! Was I sitting in a pew or a coffee shop? I mean, c’mon. The menu is listed on the back of church fans. If that doesn’t give you life, I don’t know what will!

While visiting, I had a chance to partake in Bloom and Plume’s infamous “Toast Ministry.” I ordered “Becky,” avocado toast topped with Berber spiced garbanzo beans, watermelon radish, and sliced tomatoes served on Bub & Grandma’s house country loaf. I omitted the egg to make it vegan.

Bloom and Plume also has some ways you can support the community through the shop. I’ll be back to drop off intimates for My Friend’s Place. In sum, Bloom and Plume is a feel-good hangout spot, perfect for work or play.