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Honoring (Her)story in the Making

Celebrate Women's History Month in Downtown Phoenix

In honor of Women's History Month this March, Downtown Phoenix Inc. [DPI] is honoring the women of Downtown Phoenix’s past, present, and future who have shaped our community.

Throughout the month, we'll be highlighting women-owned businesses to support, blogging about female changemakers in DTPHX, and hosting conversations with local historians about Downtown's women of the past and their impact on the city.

To gain a deeper understanding of the rich women's history integrated throughout the urban core, we're collaborating with Steve Schumacher, the Official Historian of the Mayor's Office, and Helana Ruter, the City of Phoenix's Historic Preservation Officer, to uncover stories behind some of Downtown's prominent historic landmarks tied to women.

Stay tuned for more DTPHX women's history by following us on Instagram @DowntownPhoenix and subscribing to the weekly DTPHX Insider to learn more and watch exclusive interviews with Steve and Helana throughout the month.

Inspirational Women of Downtown

Meet some of the women who play an instrumental role in shaping Downtown Phoenix and its local community. Their leadership, dedication, and contributions continue to pave the way for the next generation of leading ladies in Downtown Phoenix.

Cindy Dach
Cindy Dach prefers to think of herself as a Downtown steward. Despite all her professional accomplishments, she sees Downtown Phoenix as the product of a particular moment — being in the right place at the right time, alongside other community leaders, building on the foundational work of those who came before.
Kimber Lanning
Kimber Lanning, founder of Local First Arizona, transformed Phoenix's cultural landscape by championing local businesses, adaptive reuse, and community-driven development.
Dr. Sheila Harris
Dr. Sheila Harris, a pillar in housing advocacy, has shaped Phoenix's landscape through roles like founding director of the Arizona Department of Housing. Her insights and leadership drive critical community initiatives for a better future.
Leah Fregulia
Leah Fregulia has left an indelible impact as an active participant in Downtown revitalization, as Head of School for Arizona School for the Arts, President of Hance Park Conservancy, and as co-chair of Phoenix Community Alliance’s Arts, Culture & Public Life Committee (ACPL).
Krista Shepherd
Krista Shepherd is among a new generation of stakeholders pushing Downtown into the future. With a crew of equally talented designers, Multistudio has slowly built upon foundational works to create the elements of a true public realm.
Carol Poore
Carol Poore’s career highlights the power of social capital and action. From shaping Phoenix’s arts scene to leading urban planning, she’s a key force in building a vibrant Downtown community.
Eva Olivas
Phoenix Revitalization Corporation (PRC), led by Eva Olivas, advocates for Central City South, empowering residents through community projects and partnerships to address housing, education, and infrastructure needs.
Kendra Lee
Kendra Lee retires after 36 years at APS, leaving a lasting legacy in Downtown Phoenix. From substations to major projects, her work has shaped the city’s infrastructure and vibrant community development.
Diane Haller
Phoenix Community Alliance (PCA) has transformed Downtown Phoenix through advocacy and collaboration since 1983. Led by current Board Chair Diane Haller, PCA drives impactful community initiatives and sustainable growth.

Meet the Local Historians

Helana Ruter, City of Phoenix Historic Preservation Officer

With over 20 years of experience, Helana has worked for both city and state-level historic preservation offices and has authored building and district nominations for listing in the National Register.

Steve Schumacher, Official Historian of the Mayor's Office

A west Phoenix native, Steve has always been a historian at heart and channels his passion to raise awareness of Phoenix's history for all citizens and visitors.

Meet Helana + Steve

Women-Owned Businesses in Downtown Phoenix

Dozens of women make and shape Downtown Phoenix's history every day through the businesses they run. From restaurants and retail boutiques to coffee shops, breweries and more — here are several female-owned businesses to know, support and celebrate in Downtown Phoenix.

*Indicates Phoenix Community Alliance (PCA) Member

1
Casa de Julia
45 W Jefferson St, Suite M
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Casa de Julia is a deeply personal and emotional tribute founded by Yasmine Rubio. This space honors Mexico's rich culinary heritage and is inspired by and evokes the spirit of her Grandma Julia, and the cherished memories Yasmine holds from her childhood, creating an authentic and warm experience for all visitors. 


2
Retail Therapy AZ
125 N 2nd St, Suite 120
Phoenix, AZ 85004

The Owner of Retail Therapy AZ, Erica Jerido, is a "Mom-preneur" who is building a legacy for her daughter and immersing herself in their passion of supporting local.

Retail Therapy began in 2021 as a mobile clothing boutique, vending at several local pop up events. Erica quickly realized that her passion wasn't clothing, but rather the connections she was making with the other local businesses. She decided she wanted to be more on the event coordinator side of pop up events, and started hosting community markets throughout the Valley.


3
UR Tangled Truth
200 E Van Buren St, Suite 4001
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Brittany Sharp is a holistic wellness practitioner and yoga instructor dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey towards inner balance, healing, and self-discovery through a wide range of services like massage therapy, sound healing, and more.


4
Fair Trade Cafe*
1020 N First Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85003

You haven’t experienced downtown until you’ve been to Fair Trade Cafe. Opened by small business advocate and Latina entrepreneur Stephanie Vasquez, Fair Trade has been a community pillar for nearly 14 years. In addition to its organic fair trade coffees and teas, and small-batch specialty ice cream, Fair Trade bakes all of its delicious pastries and cakes in house. Looking for a pick-me-up? Try the velvety smooth cold brew with a piece of the chocolate chip pumpkin bread. (It’s life-changing.)


5
GenuWine Arizona*
888 N 1st Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Experience all the grapey goodness that Arizona has to offer at GenuWine Arizona wine bar. Opened by former teachers and forever besties, Emily Rieve and Lindsey Schoenemann, GenuWine features local wines, beer and custom cheese and dessert boards. Choose from 24 different wines in either a taste, half glass, or full glass. After opening their doors three years ago, Emily and Lindsey’s business has become a mainstay in the Roosevelt neighborhood, with its casual atmosphere, spacious patio and community vibe. View the menu online.


6
Midwest Wings XL
201 E Washington St
Phoenix, AZ 85004

A Midwesterner through and through, Kiara brings her love for the flavors of the Midwest all the way from Michigan to DTPHX. Look no further for classic comfort food like chicken wings, loaded fries, Detroit-style corned beef sandwiches,  or even treat yourself to a cold beer or frozen margarita! You can find this chicken haven at 201 E. Washington St. behind Taco Bell Cantina.


7
Greenwood Brewing*
922 N 5th St
Phoenix, AZ 85004

A woman-owned brewery? I’ll drink to that. Brewing may be a male-dominated industry, but that didn’t stop Megan Greenwood from opening her own brewery smack dab in the heart of Roosevelt Row. While Greenwood’s handcrafted brews are for everyone to enjoy, her goal is to create craft beer that’s approachable, especially to women. The space is bright, simple and stylish with mid-century vibes, brass fixtures and green accents. Two beer gardens allow for plenty of fresh air, and cooling misters in the summer. View the menu before your visit.


8
CP Coffee & Pâtisserie
850 N 5th St, Suite 120
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Julia Peixoto is the driving force and owner of Peixoto Coffee, born into a long-standing coffee farming family in Southern Brazil. She and her husband, Jeff Peters, left their corporate careers around 2015 to establish Peixoto Coffee, which sources, roasts, and brings to market coffee from their family farm in Brazil.

A collaboration between Peixoto Coffee and the beloved local pastry shop, Chacónne Pâtisserie, introduced an exciting new concept to the DTPHX neighborhood in 2025, located in the 850 PBC building. The joint bakery and coffee shop, called CP Coffee & Pâtisserie, offers the best of both worlds in one beautifully crafted space.


9
The Thread & Do The Damn Thing*
130 N Central Ave, Suite 110 & 201
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Owner and CEO of The Thread and Do The Damn Thing, Tiffany Largie is an entrepreneurial powerhouse, using her leadership and experience to create, inspire, and make a difference in the community. The Thread is a secondhand store that believes every piece of clothing deserves to continue the story.


10
Sweet Crimes Candy Vault
114 W Adams St, Suite C-106
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Sweet Crimes Candy Vault is unique micro-ice cream shop, candy store, dessert spot mash-up offering up your favorite ice cream sundaes, nostalgic and classic candy, as well as a variety of comfort desserts. It was opened and is run by the same owners behind Andy’s Shoe Shine—Andy Milsap and Grace Foster—as an additional venture right next door to their longtime Downtown Phoenix business.


11
Stardust & Sage*
610 E Roosevelt St, Unit 136
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Step up your self-care or spiritual journey with a trip to Stardust & Sage Botanica. Havana Dickerson opened this magical spot as a one-stop-shop for all your metaphysical needs. The quaint and sunny shop features floating shelves, stocked with perfectly organized crystals, candles, Florida water and sage.


12
LATHA Restaurant & Bar
628 E Adams St
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Evelia Davis is the CEO and Founder of LATHA, a restaurant and bar that celebrates the rich and diverse flavors of Africa and the African diaspora. The menu is rooted in the food traditions of Africa, Brazil, the Caribbean and the Southern US. Ingredients are carefully sourced from local farms, responsible purveyors and fair trade sources, as well as offering a selection of wine, beer, and spirits made, owned or developed by Black artisans.


13
House of Patterns*
815 N 1st Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85003

This nonprofit provides fashion education and industry resources to the Arizona-based fashion community. Founded by Tricee Thomas, Phoenix designers can learn the business of fashion, participate in fashion shows, attend creative workshops, and more. House of Patterns hosts On Central and Phoenix Swim Week fashion shows. Thomas says the organization’s purpose is to bring attention to local emerging designers and creative talents in the city to place Arizona on the map as one of the leading garment industries in the country.


14
Maleta Cafe
147 E Adams St
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Tucked just inside the vibrant Arizona Latino Arts & Culture Center (ALAC), Maleta Cafe is a natural extension of owner Maria’s decade-long journey with ALAC. After starting as an intern from ASU, Maria has helped shape the Center through social media, event planning, and art curation—making her new café feel right at home within its creative walls. The boho-chic space channels the charm and color of Mexico City, complete with a mobile coffee cart, greenery, artwork, and cozy outdoor seating.


15
The Scookie Bar
901 N 1st St
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Veanney Hurtado and Laura Browder started The Scookie Bar as a mobile food truck that hit the streets of Phoenix in 2016. Since then, they've moved the "build-your-own" deep-dish skillet cookie, or "scookie" business," to a brick-and-mortar location in The Churchill. As an LGBTQ+ and Latina-owned business, The Scookie Bar has deep roots within the community and frequently pops up at local events around the city.


16
Harumi Sushi & Sake
101 N 1st Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85003

As the owner of Harumi Sushi & Sake and a first-generation Japanese-American, Jessika Kim knows a lot about overcoming adversity to succeed in restaurant operations. After working hard to raise a family and make a home in Phoenix, 11 years ago, her family opened the first location of Harumi in Phoenix when, at the time, there were not many sushi options at all in the area beyond big-box stores.

Harumi serves traditional Japanese cuisine and a modern twist, and is known for its purple rice sushi rolls. Featuring fresh, never-frozen sashimi, from Scottish salmon to Nova Scotian tuna, shipped by flight over night, Harumi hand-selects fish from all over the world.


17
Que Sazón South American Cuisine & Ceviche Bar
622 E Adams St
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Julie Ocampo and her husband, Fabian, operate Que Sazon with a food-and-family ethos. In 2017, after a move to Scottsdale to be close to family, the couple started a South American-inflected food truck they named Que Sazón. After receiving encouragement from their loyal fan base, they moved from their mobile restaurant to the historic Teeter House in Heritage Square in March of 2023. 


18
The MUSE.eum*
316 W McDowell Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Muse's love of the arts began at a very early age where she was inspired by her mom’s entrepreneurial skills and her fathers love for carpentry which sparked the artist within. She has a great passion for youth, the liberation of Black women, racial justice, HBCU(Historically Black Colleges and Universities) advocacy, educating and volunteering with teen girls of color, and all things Arts related.


19
Tipsy Scoop
355 N Central Ave, Suite 102
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Tipsy Scoop's Phoenix Barlour is owned by mother and daughter team, Tamika Wooten and her daughter Dominika Cheatham. They fell in love with Tipsy Scoop after visiting the New York City location in 2022.

Tipsy Scoop was founded in 2014 in New York City. Since then the brand has grown with two company owned stores in NYC, and franchisees in New York, DC, Bahamas, Portland OR, Nashville TN, and now Downtown Phoenix. Located on the ground floor of the Sora residential tower on the corner of Central Ave. and E. Polk St.


20
Turquoise Wine Bar*
504 E Roosevelt St
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Oly Salgado is the co-owner of Turquoise Wine Bar’s first franchise location in Roosevelt Row. After 30 years in finance, she followed her passion for community and connection—discovering Turquoise’s warm, welcoming atmosphere as a patron and choosing to bring that same charm to her neighborhood. Together with her husband Jesse, Oly is dedicated to creating a wine bar where people feel at home, friendships are made over boutique pours, and fun is always on the menu.


21
3Eighteen Training
200 E Van Buren St, Suite 412
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Coach Micki offers training sessions that focus on the fundamentals of fitness: mobility, flexibility, endurance, and muscle development. She believe an athlete is built from the inside out, and her approach is direct, open, and honest.


22
Urban Edge Cycle + Fitness
400 E Van Buren St, 2nd Floor Fitness Center @ One Arizona C
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Urban Edge Cycle + Fitness is Downtown Phoenix’s go-to destination for high-energy workouts and community-driven fitness. Under the leadership of owner Janice Molina, this woman-owned studio offers dynamic cycling classes, strength training sessions, and personalized fitness programs designed to motivate and inspire.


23
Crown Public House
333 E Jefferson St
Phoenix, AZ 85004

In the heart of Downtown, Crown Public House blends elevated comfort food with a welcoming neighborhood spirit. Led by Beverly Byas, this locally loved spot offers a thoughtful menu of handcrafted dishes, curated cocktails, and an inviting atmosphere that makes everyone feel like a regular.


24
Ricemill
201 E Washington St, Suite 111
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Ricemill, Phoenix’s newest modern Asian-inspired rice bowl concept, is the creative brainchild of a team of passionate founders, including Fannie Wang, Harry Yu, Chef Yiyi Wang, and Jin Zhang. These culinary experts draw inspiration from family gatherings where the comforting aroma of rice bowls prepared by their grandmas filled the air.

Each rice bowl is a culinary story, blending the founders' cherished family memories and Asian culinary traditions with a contemporary twist in a fast-casual atmosphere. Ricemill's menu features unique combinations of vibrant flavors, like the Shanghai-style steak and Seoul garlic chicken signature rice bowls.


25
Longevity Lab
1 N 1st St, Suite 104
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Cam Kelso, owner of Longevity Lab, is dedicated to helping you achieve a better quality of life through a body approach. Located on the corner of Washington and 1st St., Longevity Lab offers various wellness services, including stretch therapy, cold plunge, red light therapy, and more.


26
Nail Snob
400 N 2nd Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Nail Snob brings a fresh, stylish approach to nail care in Downtown Phoenix. Owner Cydnee Ceballos has created a chic, inviting space where creativity meets precision, offering everything from classic manicures to bold, trend-forward nail art. Known for attention to detail and a commitment to client comfort, Nail Snob is the perfect destination to treat yourself while supporting a thriving woman-owned business in the heart of the city.


27
Hair by Amanda Rose
101 N 1st Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Whether you need a haircut, color, or even a new styling technique, Hair by Amanda Rose makes it easy to treat yourself during your workday Downtown. Her salon is located off the first-floor lobby in the 101 North tower on First Avenue between Monroe and Adams streets.


28
Unfiltered Natural Wine and More
111 W Monroe St
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Corianne Nelson is the Owner of Unfiltered Natural Wine and More, a boutique wine and craft beer haven in the heart of Downtown Phoenix. Specializing in minimal intervention and small production wines, as well as local craft beers, they curate a collection that showcases the craftsmanship of passionate winemakers committed to authenticity and sustainability.


29
Zen Thai Cafe
110 N Central Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85004

From pad Thai and boba tea to creative cocktails and more — Zen Thai Cafe is a staple in the downtown food scene. Owner-operator Rachel McAuley purchased the former business in 2017, Tom Yum Thai Restaurant, and rebranded with her own concept in 2018. While it’s Rachel’s delicious food that draws you in, it’s the luxurious yet cozy vibe that makes you stay — complete with velvet seating, elaborate gold sculptures and moody lighting. Zen Thai is a popular spot for 9-to-5 workers, but when the sun goes down, Zen Thai heats up with music, dimmed lights and an outdoor patio.


30
Alterations & Creations
214 W Roosevelt St, Suite C3
Phoenix, AZ 85003

One of the oldest operating woman-owned businesses downtown, Alterations & Creations has been keeping Downtown Phoenix residents looking sharp since 2001. While alterations and dry cleaning are the main focus of TinaMarie Eaves' business, you can also pop in to shop for unique readymade and custom apparel, and accessories in the adjoining boutique. Fun fact: TinaMarie was the lead designer behind Prince’s signature ruffle shirt worn in the 1984 film “Purple Rain.”


31
Cataleya's Nail Salon & Boutique
301 W Roosevelt St, Suite 113
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Carol Missett opened Cataleya's Nail Salon & Boutique in Downtown Phoenix with a vision to create space where culture and luxury coexist. On the boutique side, she partners with multiple small business vendors.

"This business was never about just me—it’s about all of us. I want the story we tell to reflect the collective effort and spirit behind Cataleya’s." (Carol Missett)

Pictured (left to right): Saundra Garcia - Owner of Suenos De Saundra, Dalila Varela - Nail Technician, Yolanda Trujillo - Owner of Viva Beauty, Ximena Salinas - Nail Technician, Shane Farmer - Owner of Power to Change Art.

Mural by @lamorena_art and @coloring__da_world


32
Big Bacon's
719 E Roosevelt St
Phoenix, AZ 85006

Adriane Harris opened Big Bacon’s to bring classic, home-cooked meals from the Midwest to Downtown Phoenix. Located on the corner of Roosevelt and 7th streets, their menu offers Chicago-inspired soul food made with fresh ingredients.


33
Malegría Cafe
1031 Grand Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85007

For as long as she can remember, Arizona native Melina Ruan-Serrano has been surrounded by food and family. Her parents owned and operated restaurants — most recently, El Pacifico. She grew up in their kitchens, training, learning and dreaming. Now, it’s her turn. In early July, Ruan Serrano opened Malegría, which she describes as a Latin cafe on Grand Avenue and Fillmore Street.


34
Bunky Boutique
1001 N Central Ave, Suite 125
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Bunky Boutique is proud to celebrate over 15 years in the Downtown Phoenix community. Rachel Malloy is the owner of this hip, rustic-chic shop specializing in desert-inspired apparel, home goods, gifts, and quirky accessories. Shop online or swing by to browse in-store at the Roosevelt Row location on the ground floor of the Ten-O-One building.


35
Palabras Bilingual Bookstore
906 W Roosevelt St, STE 2
Phoenix, AZ 85007

Rosaura "Chawa" Magaña is the proud founder and owner of Palabras Bilingual Bookstore, Downtown Phoenix’s only bilingual bookstore and cultural sanctuary. Inspired by a transformative encounter with Librería Donceles, a traveling Spanish-language bookstore installation, she launched Palabras in 2015, starting with just five books. Today, it’s a vibrant, community-driven space—a bookstore, gallery, workshop venue, and mutual-aid garden—all in one.


36
Tacos Calafia
825 N 7th St, Ste. 102
Phoenix, AZ 85006

After founding Tacos Calafias in Peoria, expanding into Downtown Phoenix was a priority for Adolfo Torres (right) and for his close friends Leo Vazquez (left) and Wendy Gonzalez (middle), who opened and run that location, which is in the historic Bayless Store No. 7 building on 7th and Garfield streets. The food is 100% authentic Mexican street tacos, the kind you'd find on a busy street corner.

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