Cowe Crew Favorites: Small Business Edition

Now more than ever, we find ourselves looking for ways we can help those in our community during this crazy time. We know that there are so many small businesses local to us, it can be difficult to remember them all when you’re browsing through Etsy or trying to decide where to place your lunch order. Our Cowe Crew has compiled a list of some of our favorite hidden gems to look out for online and in the San Fernando Valley to keep on your radar next time you’re looking for a new brunch spot or a unique place to shop.

Miri’s Picks

Kingfisher Road

Location: 4922 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Why I love it: This is a GEM of a boutique located in the heart of Woodland Hills. Family owned and run, Kelly, the founder and leader of this glorious shopping destination, truly runs this business with her heart. Don’t get us wrong, she is savvy as hell but their store is filled with thoughtfully curated items that will fill your heart with joy. During the COVID-19 shutdowns, they provided handmade Easter Baskets that were designed with each child’s likes and interest in mind. A fantastic mother daughter duo with a brilliant team to back them up. Everyone should run not walk to Kingfisher Road!
Pro Tip: Treat yourself to a mystery bag!! It’ll undoubtedly make your week.

Follow Your Heart

Location: 21825 Sherman Way, Canoga Park, CA 91303
Why I love it: Have you heard of Vegenaise? OF COURSE you have! It’s a worldwide phenomenon and when we think that it started right here in Canoga Park, well our hearts and souls couldn’t be prouder. Founded in 1970, four wonderful men, Michael, Bob, Paul, and Spencer, opened a tiny food stand in the back of a natural foods store. The original counter still exists to this day and their restaurant has expanded into a full service destination. Not to mention that their food is as delicious, healthy and sustainable as ever. You’ll also find incredible groceries, gifts and a yoga center at Follow Your Heart. Once every few weeks, the Cowe Crew makes it a point to get a meal from Follow Your Heart because they make us so darned happy! Check them out!

Nic’s Picks

Old New York Deli

Website: 4972 Verdugo Way, Camarillo, CA 93012
Why I love it: I discovered Old New York Deli in Camarillo about three years ago. It very quickly became my ‘go to’ weekend brunch spot – with indoor and outdoor seating, a great rewards program and online takeout ordering available too.
What to order: With everything from Bagels, omelets, burgers and salads to the most amazing cakes and pastries – this is also a great lunch, dinner or simple coffee and cake spot!

West of Orleans

Address: 3321 Kimber Dr C, Newbury Park, CA 91320
Why I love it: West of Orleans is THE hidden gem of Conejo Valley. They offer classic southern style dishes, and I feel the need to warn you that once you try them out you’ll be hooked.
Fun Fact: If you don’t dine in or place a to-go order, they also offer THEMED Catering! They have different themes for you to choose from, like New Orleans, Carribean Vibes or Afternoon Brunch- you really can’t go wrong.

Astrid’s Picks

Main Kitchen Cafe

Address: 17013 Chatsworth St, Granada Hills, CA 91344
Why I Love it: Main Kitchen Cafe has a very cozy feel, it almost wants you to underestimate it but the food is amazing. One of my favorite breakfast spots!

More Than Waffles

Address: 17200 Ventura Blvd Ste 109, Encino, CA 91316
Why I Love it: More Than Waffles is very quaint, cute and village-y. It has a very homey feel and decor and according to their website the current couple that owns the restaurant met and fell in love in the restaurant.
What to order: For both of these I am a huge huge fan of pancakes and eggs benedict- these breakfast spots have the best around!

Savannah’s Picks

Barones

Address: 13726 Oxnard St, Valley Glen, CA 91401
Why I love it: The moment you walk in the door you can feel the magic. Corny, I know, but it’s so true. From the classic red, tuck-n-roll booths to their widely renowned square-shaped pizza to the family pictures and articles hanging on the walls, Barones exemplifies the American Dream at it’s best. This restaurant was started by a local family man who developed & perfected all the recipes by hand and served his community by sharing his unique gift. To this day, his son and granddaughter manage the San Fernando Valley staple. It has been a favorite for my family my entire life! In fact, we order from them almost every birthday, holiday, and special event!
What to order: Our favorite dishes are the Barones house salad, Minestrone soup, & eggplant pizza. Then again, everything they make is delicious!

Sword & Whetstone

Website: https://www.swordandwhetstone.com/
Why I love it: When it comes to detail, Charity is the expert! With the combination of insane crafting skills, extreme patience, and a passion for being unique she creates pieces that never disappoint. On her website you can order limited edition items such as jewelry, candles, and pins….and more is coming! Her audience loves the geeky designs and exclusive sets. Due to our country’s recent turmoil, she is launching a line of pins specifically designed to highlight and promote equality, justice, and love. She is donating the proceeds to various charities supporting the Black Lives Matter Movement. Even as a one-woman operation with other commitments, she’s found the time to educate herself, lift up creators in her industry, and get involved in a meaningful way.
My favorite item: My favorite candle is Friends Don’t Lie which smells just like waffles with syrup!

Lindsey’s Picks

Bluebird Brasserie

Address: 3730 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Why I love it: My original draw to Bluebird was the gorgeous- Harry Potter-esque vibe of this Belgian Brewpub. Not only do they brew their own craft beer, but they have a menu full of Belgian style classics to go with it. As an added bonus, if you chose to visit now, they’ve done some redecorating to become the temporary pop-up “Dirk’s Terror Tavern”. If you’re a Halloween nerd like I am, you’ll definitely get a kick out of the movie monster- themed decor. From Creature from the Black Lagoon, Micheal Meyers and even Alien, they’ve covered all the classics. There’s even a Haunted Mansion section for all you Disney fans.
Favorite Menu Item: Instead of a mimosa with brunch, I get the White Bear. It’s a fun twist on a Pina Colada!

Nimbus Coffee

Address: 1115 S Hope St, Los Angeles, CA 90015
Why I Love it: Calling all Witches and Wizards: if you haven’t heard yet, Nimbus Coffee is a Harry Potter themed coffee shop in LA- yes you read that right. Everything about Nimbus Coffee is magical, from the whimsical decor to the instagram- worthy drinks like the “Notorious Black”, which is a Rosemary Charcoal Latte. They even sell delicious potter themed snacks and merchandise so you can take the magic home with you.
Fun Fact: Nimbus was founded by two boss babes that wanted to create a culturally diverse space where magic and coffee meet.

Alex’s Picks

Goodwitch LA

Website: https://www.etsy.com/market/goodwitch_la
Why I love it: Goodwitch LA is an online shop with all of the cleanse your aura, good vibes only, witchy essentials that you need. This company is built upon connection – connection with yourself, with others and with mother nature. With that in mind, owner Tristyn Rhoades, is an expert in building that connection with her audience by simply being authentic, telling her story and sharing her craft with the world. She’s totally worth following on Instagram @goodwitch_la

Fun fact/ fave item: The Goodwitch and I have been friends for years and it’s been beautiful watching her grow and deepen her understanding of the world around her. My favorite piece of Goodwitch art that I have is my triangle alter. We hung it up on the wall and it holds our succulents and sage. It’s so cute!

Kennedy Surf Shop

Address: 22755 Ventura Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Why I love it: We used to visit the Jersey Shore every summer when I was a kid and I loved going into all of the surf shops. Kennedy’s brings me back every time I walk in the door. It’s the perfect little hole in the wall shop owned by a father and son and it’s been bringing surf culture to the Valley for years. The father recently passed and his son is carrying the legacy of their custom boards and passion for the world of surfing.

Fun fact/ fave item: These guys love to fish. If you head over to Kennedy’s on Friday afternoons you may get lucky and catch their weekly fish fry.

Robyn’s Pick

Mr. Furley’s

Address: 14649 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Why I love it: Mr. Furley’s is my favorite late night spot! In the summer, the big windows are open on Ventura Boulevard letting music and laughter float into the night air. Their happy hour features fabulously LONG hours and custom cocktails. We love going for girls night, date night, group outings and more- they have the best seating around for groups! The bartenders are certainly characters (one has a 12″ mohawk) and they hustle what must be the longest bar in the Valley, while keeping everyone happy! Their small bites are home-made with the nachos being a home-run! You can shoot darts, play pool or shuffleboard. The only thing you can’t do is go home grumpy, it’s simply not possible!
What to order: Best cocktail is Janet’s Secret which is rum, lime and watermelon liqueur. You can choose from around over 50 varieties of beer, wine or a fun shot. I recommend the Mind Eraser! The nachos are also amazing, they’re even available in a vegetarian option.