Women-Owned Businesses in NYC
From music to restaurants to politics, women in NYC have made immense waves. NYC wouldn't be the same if not for the strongest and often overlooked members of our society, so we've decided to highlight some of our favorites across the boroughs of New York!
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Coffee & Cafes |
Restaurants & Bars |
Shopping |
Experiences
Coffee & Cafes
515 E 12th St | East Village
PHOTO: THE PASTRY BOX
The Pastry Box, founded by New York native Chef Tiara Bennett, started outside her Bed-Stuy apartment during the pandemic and quickly took off! With experience in Michelin-starred kitchens and a passion for food, art, and culture, Bennett has made The Pastry Box a go-to for handcrafted pastries like her Yuzu Olive Oil Loaf Cake and signature Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookie.
Various Locations
Celebrating over 20 years in NYC, Cafe Grumpy is a beloved woman-owned coffee shop known for its expertly roasted beans and cozy neighborhood cafes. Grab a cup or order their blends to your door.
319 Lafayette St | SoHo
PHOTO: FUNNY FACE BAKERY
In 2016, Sarah Silverman transformed her bestselling Swiss meringue buttercream cupcakes into a pop culture bakery empire. Within months, she introduced the Custom Portrait Cookie, starting with POTUS candidates and expanding to Kim K and beloved brands. Stop by this neighborhood gem and start by grabbing a gooey chocolate chip cookie!
Multiple Locations
Founded by Nina Brondmo, Bakeri serves Scandinavian-inspired pastries, breads, and seasonal breakfast and lunch dishes. Stop in for their Smoked Salmon with Dill & Caper Labneh Sandwich!
196 Court St | Cobble Hill
Bolo Bolo Café & Bakery is a cozy Brooklyn spot founded by Isha Koya, serving small-batch baked goods, coffee, and sweets made fresh daily.
Restaurants & Bars
309 W 50th St | Hell's Kitchen
PHOTO: DON ANTONIO
Don Antonio, a women-owned gem in Hell’s Kitchen, serves authentic Neapolitan pizza, including the famous pizza fritta. Led by award-winning pizzaiola Giorgia Caporuscio, it’s one of only two Neapolitan pizzerias in NYC recognized in the MICHELIN Guide 2024. Enjoy wood-fired classics, gluten-free options, and Italian craft drinks.
234 Union Ave | Williamsburg
Making plant-based food delicious has never been a struggle for Yesenia Ramdass. HAAM, which stands for 'Healthy As A Motha', is a vegan Caribbean hotspot.
1222 Nostrand Ave | Prospect Lefferts Garden
Photo: SWEET CATCH
This is the perfect place for brunch when in the mood for seafood. Kawana Jefferson founded this eatery in Brooklyn, showing a passion for 'seafood made with soul' within each plate created. You must start with crab dip, and enjoy their cornbread avocado toast, served with fried oysters when eating here.
11 E 13th St | Union Square
Reyna is a lively Mediterranean tapas spot founded by Nicki Laborie, known for shareable plates, bold flavors, and a stylish atmosphere. It’s a great pick for a dinner with friends or a date night with great cocktails.
Multiple Locations
Photo: Talea Beer
Tara and LeAnn bonded over their love of brewing and are the creators of TALEA. TALEA is a beer-crafting company, created by women, breaking down many borders in the brewing industry. They have taprooms in Manhattan and Brooklyn so there's no excuse not to check them out.
Multiple Locations
Tipsy Scoop puts an adult twist on dessert with alcohol-infused ice cream flavors and boozy ice cream-making classes. Founded by Melissa Tavs, the brand has grown into a nationwide sensation with multiple NYC locations.
47 Withers St | Williamsburg
PHOTO: BABA on Withers
BABA on Withers is a female-owned and operated wine bar in Williamsburg, serving great drinks, fresh French food, and an occasional dance party. Owner Gabriella Mann brings warmth and charm to the space, which started as a Fort Greene cafe 10 years ago. Whether it’s brunch in the backyard or drinks under the disco ball, BABA invites you to stay, connect, and keep it cool.
315 Meserole St | Williamsburg
Wandering Barman in Williamsburg crafts inventive cocktails made in-house and served on tap. Their sustainably made bottled cocktails can also be found at liquor stores around NYC.
Multiple Locations
Photo: Arepa Lady
Arepa Lady began as a late-night street cart run by Maria Cano in Jackson Heights and has since grown into one of Queens’ most beloved restaurants with multiple NYC locations, known for its crispy Colombian arepas and vibrant street-food flavors.
580 Manhattan Ave | Greenpoint
Photo: Moody Goose Vintage
Moody Goose Vintage is a mother-daughter-run vintage collaborative featuring over 10 vintage curators. The shop focuses on 90s and everyday casual wear with unique pieces for all genders.
75 Varick St | SoHo
Chillhouse is a SoHo wellness spot that blends nail care, beauty products, and relaxation into one stylish space. Known for its popular press-on nails and laid-back vibe, it’s a modern take on self-care.
269 Elizabeth St | SoHo
Photo: Love Adorned
Love Adorned is a women-owned fine jewelry and lifestyle shop curated by Lori Leven, offering designer, vintage, and home pieces. With a focus on quality and aesthetics, their pieces make perfect gifts for someone special. Plus, enjoy 15% off during your birthday month when you sign up for their newsletter!
119 Grand St | Williamsburg
Antoinette is a Brooklyn vintage shop owned by Lexi Oliveri. Named after her mother, this shop offers sustainable fashion and standout second-hand pieces that will get people talking.
Brooklyn | NYC
Photo: Long Weekend Florals
Long Weekend Florals is a Brooklyn floral studio founded by Ellen Rothfuss, specializing in thoughtful arrangements, public workshops, and event design. Inspired by time spent working on a flower farm, she prioritizes seasonal blooms and supporting local growers.
Various Locations
QQ Nails & Spa has become a go-to nail salon across NYC thanks to its quality service and polished results. With multiple locations, it’s a reliable stop for a quick mani-pedi or full nail refresh.
Experiences
1241 Flushing Ave | Bushwick
Photo: The Red Pavilion
The Red Pavilion is an immersive Asian neo-noir nightclub founded by nightlife producer Shien Lee. Blending art, music, and performance, the Bushwick venue celebrates AAPI culture while creating a vibrant space for community, creativity, and unforgettable nights out.
Ongoing Event Series
Support Women DJs is a NYC-based community platform dedicated to empowering femme, trans, nonbinary, and queer DJs. Through events and advocacy, the collective works to create greater gender equity in the dance music industry.
27-01 41st Ave | LIC
Photo: FORM + FLOW
This Yoga Studio in Long Island City is the perfect place to unwind after a long week. Go on a journey within yourself, and practice mindfulness during a yoga class. Many instructors teach at different paces, so if you are a beginner or more advanced, Form + Flow has a class for you!
406 Broadway | Soho
The Ness is a SoHo fitness studio known for its high-energy trampoline workouts that combine dance and cardio. The classes focus on movement, rhythm, and fun while delivering a serious workout.
115 Plymouth St | Dumbo
Photo: A.I.R. Gallery
A.I.R Gallery is a women-owned art gallery located in Dumbo with amazing exhibits to check out. This gallery works with hundreds of women artists annually and displays their work in their space. You will find some of the most unique art in this space with different backgrounds represented.
Did we miss your favorite spot? Email us at [email protected].
Updated March 2026
