Trio of D.C. Natives Bring the Village Cafe to Life in Union Market District
The Union Market District continues its commitment to nurturing burgeoning local businesses. The arrival of The Village Cafe will be making it’s debut in a couple of weeks. The cafe is located at 1272 5th Street NE in Washington D.C.
The Village Cafe will held a soft opening on Tuesday, October 9. It will be open to the public on Tuesday, October 23.
The Founders
The founders and Washington natives Kevon King, Mahammad Mangum and Ryan Williams met as kids. They bonded at Woodrow Wilson High School, where they pursued their passions in the business, creative and culinary fields, respectively.
Recognizing that cafés are the ultimate social gathering place, the trio decided to embark on opening their own establishment. Therefore, they decided to create not only a cafe that serves quality food and drinks, but one that also uplifts the”village”.
“Throughout history, coffee has been a commodity that people have clamored for. It brings them together which fosters both conversation and community,” King says.
He continues, “We have people’s days in the palm of our hands. We give them a great day over a great cup of coffee.”
Emerging Entrepreneurs
According to CEO of EDENS, Jodie McLean, the Union Market District has always been about supporting entrepreneurs and creating economic opportunity for local emerging businesses.
“They are a great addition to the community and we are proud to have them here,” McClean states about having the trio in the district.
“It is with a great sense of pride that I welcome The Village Cafe to Ward 5 and the Union Market area. Our area continues to grow more vibrant every day,” says D.C. city council member Kenyan McDuffie.
McDuffie also stated that small businesses are the backbone of their local economy. These businesses employ District residents which keep the dollars circulating within the community.
One of the main reasons why Wacif invested in Kevon, Mahammad, and Ryan is that they share the same commitment to creating social and economic opportunities through entrepreneurship.
“We think the Village Cafe is going to be a commercial and community success. We look forward to celebrating their accomplishments.”
King, Mangum and Williams envision The Village Cafe as more than just a business. Hence, the Cafe will create social and economic opportunities through food, entrepreneurship and creative innovation.
The cafe plans to partner with Southeastern Roastery to bring these events to fruition.
Furthermore, The Village Cafe will also serve sandwiches, pastries and eventually, handcrafted cocktails, wine and beer.
In keeping with the spirit of uplifting their “village” and developing a new one with partners near and within Union Market, the founders’ plans for future programming at the Cafe include:
- Sign language classes with Gallaudet University
- “Village Talks,” including healthy eating panel discussions
- Children’s story time with Politics and Prose
- Career skills workshops + “coffee culture” training
- Partner highlight podcast
- Wilson High School alumni panel
The Village Cafe will be open Sunday and Monday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Tuesday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
About The Village Cafe
The Village Cafe is located in the heart of the Union Market District. They provide locally sourced food and drinks from underserved, aspiring and budding entrepreneurs, serving as a platform for those business owners to showcase their talents and connect with other communities.
We believe that entrepreneurship, access to quality food, and strong community spaces are critical ingredients to a healthy, prosperous place.
By sourcing from local businesses, entrepreneurs and creatives. they share their stories in alignment with their own and create opportunities for their communities, from their communities.
Visit them at www.thevillageCafedc.com.