Hidden GEMS on University Avenue: NDC Spotlights Flava Coffee, Angelea's Soul Food Kitchen and The Collective Salon Studios
Sponsored by Neighborhood Development Center. NDC's Hidden GEMS on University Avenue campaign spotlights three community-rooted businesses near the Dale Street and University Avenue intersection, Flava Coffee and Cafe, Angelea's Soul Food Kitchen and The Collective Salon Studios, as part of the St. Paul Commercial Corridor Program celebrating the entrepreneurs shaping the corridor this June and July.
University Avenue is home to some of the most unique, community-rooted businesses in the Twin Cities. This June and July, through the St. Paul Commercial Corridor Program, Neighborhood Development Center (NDC) is shining a spotlight on establishments between Lexington Parkway and Rice Street through storefront clings, billboards, local influencers, digital storytelling, and other efforts that celebrate the people and places that make this corridor special.
For more than 30 years, NDC has worked alongside entrepreneurs and small business owners across the Twin Cities, providing training, lending, and support that helps businesses grow and neighborhoods thrive. The Hidden GEMS on University Avenue campaign builds on that work by highlighting the people and places that make the corridor unique. Near Dale Street, a collection of local businesses offers a glimpse into the stories, traditions, and entrepreneurial spirit that can be found throughout University Avenue.
Centered around the intersection of Dale Street and University Avenue, Flava Coffee & Cafe, Angelea’s Soul Food Kitchen, and The Collective Salon Studios each tell a different story while contributing to the character of the corridor. Together, they represent the people, traditions, and entrepreneurial spirit that continue to shape University Avenue.
Flava Coffee & Cafe is more than a place to grab a cup of coffee. Founder and CEO Shaunie Grigsby created the cafe as an extension of her work supporting young women of color and gender-expansive youth, using a “coffee to career” model that combines mentorship, workforce development, and community building.
The impact of that mission can be felt throughout the cafe, with one customer describing Flava as “a beautiful and culturally grounded space” in the community. Alongside that mission, Flava has built a loyal following with its locally sourced menu, creative drinks, and welcoming atmosphere.
Also located at the corner of Dale Street and University Avenue, Angelea’s Soul Food Kitchen honors the legacy of Angelea Rogers through recipes and traditions passed down through generations.
Rooted in family, the restaurant is guided by the culinary spirit, warmth, and values that Angelea instilled in everyone she welcomed to her table.
Named in her honor, Angelea’s Soul Food Kitchen celebrates the family recipes and traditions that continue to shape the restaurant today, preserving a legacy of hospitality, comfort, and community in every meal served.
Located across the street in Frogtown Square, The Collective Salon Studios provides beauty professionals with the opportunity to operate their own businesses while remaining connected to the community they serve. Home to businesses including Crown Garden, Salon Sheik, Braids by Esse, Consciously Beautiful, and Luckeyiology, The Collective brings together a diverse group of salon owners, stylists, and beauty specialists under one roof.
While each business has its own story, they share a common commitment to community. Whether it’s creating opportunities for the next generation, preserving family traditions, or building businesses that give back to the neighborhoods that shape them, these entrepreneurs demonstrate the impact small businesses can have beyond their storefronts.
Through the Hidden GEMS on University Avenue campaign, NDC is highlighting the people, businesses, and stories that continue to make this corridor a vital part of Saint Paul. Flava Coffee & Cafe, Angelea’s Soul Food Kitchen, and The Collective Salon Studios represent just a few of the businesses contributing to the character and culture of University Avenue.
Community members can explore more participating businesses and discover new places to visit by viewing the online directory at www.ndc-mn.org/gems.
Business owners interested in learning more about the campaign or getting involved are encouraged to contact Neighborhood Development Center at communications@ndc-mn.org.
