Two weeks ago I received my stimulus check, and in keeping with my Pledge 1200 commitment, I wanted to both share where I #SpendLikeItMatters and solicit your suggestions for additional businesses to support.

Disclaimer: Any resemblance of the following to the story about the hungry caterpillar is purely coincidental.

Mi La Cay – Chatting with Trinh made my day! So many noodles, so little time.

Seattle Best Tea – Lydia and her team know that my go-to is the heavy oolong milk tea with extra boba!

Beach Bakery – Amy re-opened her bakery, and I was excited to pick up some delicious treats, including a s’mores bar and berry coffee cake.

King Donuts – I chatted up Travis and managed to limit myself to just one raised glazed donut. But I definitely picked up more to go! #DonutDiplomacy

Anju Bar and Eatery – My first time at Sam’s restaurant didn’t disappoint. Our meal included the delicious Korean Fried Chicken Bites.

Macadons – I ate a Macadons macaron ice cream sandwich. Finally! And then bought a rainbow of macarons to-go.

By Tae – #SushiSelfCare is definitely a thing

Eve Fremont – Always fresh, seasonal, and delicious! Debra and her team have worked hard to pivot to take out, and it doesn’t disappoint.

Deru Market – The Deru drive thru makes it super easy to grab and go.

Miro Tea – My favorite part of Miro Tea is getting recommendations from owner Jeannie Liu about the best tea pairings for my current mood.

Moshi Moshi – So glad that Moshi Moshi has re-opened, and the hamachi sashimi hit the spot.

Miri’s at Golden Gardens – If you haven’t yet tried one of Miri’s made-to-order house-made flatbread sandwiches. Go. Now.

Taurus Ox – I’m embarrassed that it took me so long to visit Taurus Ox, but I will definitely be back. Their menu calls for trying everything on it.

Kamonegi – The early bird? That wasn’t me. And so #SobaSunday turned into more of #SaiminSunday. That said, Chef Soma never disappoints and the house-made ramen delivered on flavor, texture, and deliciousness!

Purple Dot Cafe – XLB. For the win. Again. Always. And I finally met Carol Xie.

Preserve and Gather – This neighborhood cafe came highly recommend by Fulcrum Coffee’s Blas Alfaro. I will definitely be back to try many more of their delicious buns and baked goods!

Cedars of Lebanon – Owner John Khalil asked me if I wanted my usual gyro, but I was feeling something different and went with a chicken wrap.

Cortona Cafe – Waffle window for the win! Got my usual waffle with fruit, and a cappuccino + chat owner with Ice Dean.

Chu Minh Tofu – Catching up with owner Tanya Nguyen was the bright spot of my day. Her food is on point, and her love for her community is contagious.

Pasta Casalinga – The takeout lasagna was amazing. And I happily paired it with a pint of Gelatiamo Marionberry gelato.

Where should I head next? Let me know in the comments below or tag @intentionalist_ with your suggestions on Instagram!


Thanks for all that you do to #SpendLikeItMatters! Discover awesome brick + mortar small businesses in your community, suggest your favorites, and be sure that you’re following us on social media (InstagramFacebook, Twitter).

Intentionalist is your local guide to small businesses and the diverse people behind them. We believe that where you spend your money matters, and we’re sure glad you do too! Whether you identify as a localist, activist, or just a good neighbor, we make it easy for you to connect with, learn about, and support small businesses in your community through everyday decisions about where you eat, drink, and shop.

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