Women’s History Month is almost over, but that does not mean we stop celebrating the highlights and contributions women bring to our world. A few weeks ago, I went with some friends to try out a new chicken sandwich food truck and came across a sticker they had on the side from Yelp labeled “Woman-Owned Business”. I found it empowering, and it made me want to support them even more. I was curious to see what other businesses are owned by women around the Bay Area, and I was a bit surprised with my findings.
Yelp Woman-Owned Business sticker on the Chick N’Bros food truck. Image by Janice Lee.
Chick N’ Bros
Recommended by a friend, this chicken sandwich food truck did not disappoint! Their chicken sandwiches are packed with so much flavor whether you choose no spice or the hottest level. They offer online and window orders; we ordered online, and our food was ready in 20 minutes. Compared to other chicken sandwich spots like Angry Chicks and Chikin Drip, Chick N’ Bros comes in soft brioche buns with a generous piece of chicken and sauces that combine seamlessly together. If you are a chicken sandwich lover, definitely try this location out! I know I’ll be back.
Chick N’Bros Angry Bird Deluxe. Image by Janice Lee.
Planted Table
I came across this food delivery service when scrolling through Yelp, and their images drew me to learn more about them. What’s unique about the food they provide is that they’re all vegan! The business was founded by two vegan sisters who are passionate about living a plant-based life. All their ingredients are natural, local, and organic. Even if you do not start a plan with them, they offer various vegan recipes on their website. I also couldn’t forget the overwhelmingly positive reviews on them; it definitely makes me want to try out a meal from them!
Veggie Pad Thai from Planted Table. Image from Yelp.com.
Choux
As someone who loves dainty desserts, I was eager to find a woman owned bakery. This French bakery is located in San Francisco, and they are famous for their cream puffs (hence the name!). They also sell brioches, brownies, meringues, and more. The founder, Laura, started baking goods in France and continued to perfect her craft in Paris until she found love in San Francisco. Just scrolling through their images is making my mouth water. It is definitely going on my list of shops to try.
Various pastries at Choux. Image from Yelp.com.
Wanpo Tea Shop
Of course, I couldn’t leave this list without a boba store! This chain is very popular in Taiwan, and we have a few locations in the U.S., one being in the Stanford Shopping Center in Palo Alto. I had my first visit in February and got their grapefruit green tea and seasonal winter melon drink. My favorite ended up being the winter melon drink; for some reason, the grapefruit was quite sour, and I couldn’t finish it. However, that’s an indicator for me that their ingredients are fresh as advertised. Even though I didn’t have the best first experience, I would definitely go back again to try out other drinks and find one to love.
Grapefruit green tea with boba (left) and winter melon with boba. Image taken by Janice Lee.
Photolab
This business makes the photography lover in me ecstatic. Photolab is located in Berkeley and was established there in 1991. The original lab was purchased by Andrew McLaughlin in 1982 and was known as “one of the first woman-owned commercial labs in California”. They offer all types of services for photography including processing film, digital scans, prints, and framing services to display your favorite photos wherever you wish. They also offer workshops for those interested in learning more about the photography industry. This spot is definitely one that is on my list; I can’t wait to visit one day.
Free samples of their papers at Photolab. Image from Yelp.com.
Polished Offerings
Saving my personal favorite for last, Polished Offerings offers long-lasting manicures, pedicures, eyebrow waxing, and more! I have been getting shellac manicures and pedicures done since I was in high school and Ann Marie, the owner, has only improved since. I still remember my 16th birthday as she gave us her studio for nails, music, and pictures. It was a really fun, private party, and we all left with beautiful, long-lasting nails. I often go for special occasions, and my nails end up lasting for over a month. If you’re ever around the Pleasanton area, I highly recommend Ann Marie!
Winter nails (left), Chinese New Year nails (middle), and Valentines nails (right). Images taken by Janice and edited on Canva.com.
What are some women-owned businesses you recommend? Let us know by tagging us on Instagram, @HerCampusSJSU!