News Summary
In Williamsburg, Brooklyn, locals have united to support Buddies Coffee, a beloved cafe facing rising rents and competition. Following a viral TikTok by co-owner Rachel Nieves, the community has shown overwhelming support, highlighting the importance of local businesses amidst gentrification. Despite challenges, including a recent rent increase and operational concerns, community spirit shines as patrons gather to celebrate the shop, emphasizing their commitment to keeping it in the neighborhood.
Williamsburg, Brooklyn – Community members have rallied to support Buddies Coffee, a local coffee shop facing an impending rent increase and competition from a new cafe opening next door. The situation escalated after Rachel Nieves, co-owner of Buddies Coffee, posted a heartfelt TikTok video detailing her struggles with rising costs and gentrification. In a matter of hours, her video went viral, capturing the attention of locals and celebrities alike, including singer Joe Jonas, who urged fans to show support for the beloved establishment.
Buddies Coffee has been a cherished gathering place for William & Mary students, local residents, and tourists. With its emphasis on community, the coffee shop has created an inviting atmosphere that has attracted many, ultimately fostering a sense of belonging among patrons. Following Nieves’ video, lines formed outside the shop as community members, predominantly Puerto Rican locals, came out to express their support. The atmosphere turned festive, with music and dancing as people celebrated their favorite local spot.
Nieves and her partner, Taylor Nawrocki, initially opened Buddies Coffee in 2020 as a coffee cart before moving to a brick-and-mortar location on Grand Street. The couple was initially hesitant to open their business due to concerns over contributing to gentrification, yet they found acceptance and support from the community. Nieves, a former finance manager with no direct experience in the coffee industry, learned to run the shop through passion and self-education.
After securing a second location in Manhattan just days before being informed of the rent increase at their Williamsburg store, Nieves expressed mixed emotions. Despite the challenges, she found strength in community support, especially after her TikTok garnering monumental attention. Her financial journey has not been easy; starting the business with $10,000, $7,000 of which was spent on an espresso machine, Nieves often faced fears of financial instability due to the lack of formal business training.
Nieves’ initial breakthrough came when an employee from Nike discovered her coffee cart, leading to a lucrative partnership for a promotional event. This opportunity helped establish Buddies Coffee’s reputation in the community and ultimately supported its growth. Through it all, she has prioritized fair pricing to ensure that the coffee remains accessible to local residents.
Despite having secured a second location, Nieves remains committed to finding a way to stay in Williamsburg, contingent on community support. The solidarity shown by locals has provided her with hope and determination to navigate these challenges. Nieves emphasizes the importance of sharing struggles openly as a means to strengthen community bonds, reminding everyone that local businesses thrive when their communities come together in support.
As the future of Buddies Coffee hangs in the balance due to rising rents and competition, the community’s response underscores the integral role small businesses play in maintaining the character and vibrancy of Williamsburg. The rallying of support not only showcases the love for Buddies Coffee but also amplifies the ongoing conversation surrounding gentrification in urban neighborhoods.
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Additional Resources
- Daily Press: For 25 Years, Aromas has been Offering More than Just Coffee
- The Cut: How Buddies Coffee Owner Rachel Nieves Gets It Done
- Flat Hat News: Students Reflect on Best Williamsburg Coffeehouses
- ABC7 NY: Williamsburg Small Business Owner Buddies Coffee Shop Talks Rent Hike
- Eater NY: Buddies Coffee and the Gentrification Debate
- Wikipedia: Gentrification
- Google Search: Gentrification Impact
- Google Scholar: Gentrification Urban Communities
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gentrification
- Google News: Gentrification Brooklyn
