Supporting Black-owned businesses is something I’m passionate about, so when I heard about Ava’s Kitchen, a new spot that opened at the end of April, I knew I had to check it out. The place was clean, the vibe was welcoming, but let me tell you—my experience was anything but ordinary. From mysterious balloons to an unexpected Paw Patrol break, here’s what went down during my visit.
First Impressions: Clean and Quirky
Walking into Ava’s Kitchen, I was immediately struck by how clean and well-kept the place was. It’s always a good sign when a restaurant prioritizes hygiene, so I was optimistic. But then I noticed something odd—balloons tied to my chair. Confused, I asked the owner, “Why are there balloons on my chair? It’s not my birthday.”
Her response? “Mind your business; those are Mommy’s.”
Okay, then. I wasn’t sure if she was joking or serious, but I decided to roll with it. After all, every small business has its quirks, right?
The Waiting Game: 45 Minutes and Counting
I placed my order and settled in, expecting a reasonable wait time. At first, things seemed to be moving along smoothly. The owner was hustling in the kitchen, and I could smell something delicious in the works. But then, out of nowhere, she just… stopped.
For 20 minutes, she left the kitchen to go watch Paw Patrol. Yes, you read that right—Paw Patrol. I sat there, the only customer in the restaurant, wondering if this was some kind of hidden camera prank.
The Silver Lining: The Cook Is a Cutie
I won’t lie—I was frustrated. Waiting 45 minutes for my food, especially when I was the only customer, wasn’t exactly the experience I was hoping for. But then I caught a glimpse of the cook. Let’s just say, the food wasn’t the only thing that caught my attention. That little one was adorable, and it was hard to stay mad when I realized the owner was juggling running a business and being a mom.
Final Thoughts: Giving Second Chances
While the customer service could definitely use some improvement, I’m not ready to write off Ava’s Kitchen just yet. Running a business is hard, and balancing it with motherhood is even harder. I’ll give them another chance because supporting Black-owned businesses is important, and everyone deserves room to grow.
Why We Should Keep Supporting Black-Owned Businesses
This experience was a reminder that supporting small businesses, especially Black-owned ones, isn’t always going to be perfect. There will be hiccups, unexpected moments, and maybe even a Paw Patrol break or two. But it’s worth it. These businesses are the heart of our communities, and they deserve our patience and support as they grow and improve.