Reem’s California

On a soul-searching trip to Lebanon and Syria, Reem Assil was reminded of the comforts of the smells of za’atar, yeasted bread, and sweet orange blossom syrup. Paying homage to her Arab ancestors who used their bread and hospitality to overcome intense hardship, she opened Reem’s California in 2017. Her neighborhood bakery in Oakland, California quickly grew into a hub for community, social justice, and a delicious Arab-style brunch.

Fun fact: The mural on their wall honors Palestinian leader and former political prisoner Rasmea Odeh and Oakland police brutality victim Oscar Grant.