Jonathan Newby’s Guide to a Day Supporting Black-Owned Milwaukee

Best known for his "Newby’s List for Newbies" series, which helps new residents discover the places they need to know in Milwaukee, join local real estate agent Jonathan Newby of Falk Ruvin Gallagher to explore the city, supporting Black-owned businesses around town. See Milwaukee like a Newby, tag along on his perfect day around the Cream City.

Consider this your blueprint to hitting some of Newby’s favorite Black-owned spots.

8 a.m. – Coffee at Style Pop Cafe

If your cafe experience is just as important as a well-crafted cup of java, Newby suggests you start your morning at Style Pop Cafe. Located in the heart of Walker's Point, this Black-owned café serves premium espresso drinks alongside wraps, muffins, egg rolls and house-made creamers. Owned by Rosha Brister, the space offers a safe, LGBTQ+–friendly and stylish environment designed for remote work or meeting up with your friends. 

9:15 a.m. – Drop Off Dry Cleaning at Joy Cleaners

This stop is personal for Newby. Joy Cleaners has been a neighborhood staple for 18 years. It’s the kind of place that is so good at what it does that there's no need to advertise, its loyal customers come back time and time again, passing this haven of crisp, dry-cleaned shirts by word of mouth. 

10 a.m. – Settle In at HoneyBee Sage Wellness

Next, he heads to HoneyBee Sage Wellness for a slower pace. The tea lounge and apothecary offers a quiet, grounding atmosphere designed to nourish both body and soul. He orders a cup of loose-leaf tea, finds a corner and takes a moment to reset. 

12:30 p.m. – Lunch at Sam’s Place Jazz Café

Sam’s Place Jazz Café is Newby's pick for lunch. Here, you'll savor classic soul food like catfish, fried chicken and shrimp and grits made from scratch.
 

2 p.m. – Shop at Unfinished Legacy

After lunch, head to the Historic Third Ward to visit Unfinished Legacy. Founded by Sudanese-born creative director Brema Brema, the streetwear brand tells powerful stories of migration and growth through butterfly imagery and handmade, sustainable designs. With bold, locally inspired pieces, Unfinished Legacy celebrates Milwaukee’s creativity and culture. 

2:45 p.m. – Grab Baked Goods at Delicious Bites

An afternoon stop at Delicious Bites is a must. Known for irresistible cookies, cupcakes and custom cakes, the bakery is owned by Tomira White, who also offers convenient grab-and-go lunch options. 

6:30 p.m. – Dinner at Immy’s African Cuisine

Newby ends the day at Immy’s African Cuisine. This family-owned restaurant brings West African traditions to Milwaukee with dishes like jollof rice, egusi soup and coconut chicken curry.

This is Milwaukee, not the version you see on a postcard, but the one you experience when you pay attention and choose to support places that are building something lasting. Black-owned businesses are part of Milwaukee's soul. This February, and every month after, Newby encourages you to show up, support intentionally and celebrate consistently.