In honor of Women's History Month, we're proud to shine a spotlight on some of the powerhouse women of Anaheim and Garden Grove, the entrepreneurs, creators, and leaders who help shape our community into a truly world-class destination. From inspiring small business owners to innovative voices across industries, these women bring passion, creativity, and heart to everything they do. We invite you to explore their stories, visit their businesses, and support the women-owned shops and restaurants that give Anaheim its unique character and soul.

Poppy & Seed

A true force behind Anaheim's dining scene, Kwini Reed is redefining what it means to be a modern hospitality leader. As co-founder of A Table for Two Hospitality alongside her husband Chef Michael Reed, Kwini has helped bring a fresh, elevated take on New American cuisine to Southern California, with standout concepts including Poppy & Seed.

At Poppy & Seed, her vision comes to life in a way that feels both innovative and grounded. The Michelin-recommended restaurant is rooted in sustainability, featuring its own on-site garden that supplies fresh herbs and seasonal ingredients straight to the kitchen. The menu highlights vibrant, seasonal dishes that have quickly made it a local's favorite, with must-try plates like house-made Gnocchi, perfectly prepared Kampachi Crudo, a Wagyu Hanger Steak, and colorful garden-driven dishes that showcase the best of California's produce.

Through her leadership, creativity, and purpose-driven approach, Kwini Reed is not only shaping Anaheim's culinary identity, she's setting the standard for what a powerhouse woman in hospitality looks like today.

PiqueNique

Charcuterie anyone? Nathalie Barge, founder of Pique-Nique and expert cheesemonger and wine professional, brings her extensive culinary experience to this cheese and charcuterie bar located in the charming Anaheim Packing House. She has honed her craft through years of global travel and education, developing an eye for unique, high-quality ingredients.

Nathalie's dedication to showcasing small-batch producers shines through in Pique-Nique's thoughtfully curated menu, featuring artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and wine sourced from around the world all paired in delightful, unexpected ways. Whether you're a curious newcomer or a seasoned foodie, Pique-Nique promises a memorable experience curated by a woman whose passion for food and wine is as approachable as it is inspiring.

Smoke Queen

In the heart of Garden Grove, The Smoke Queen BBQ is redefining the local food scene with serious firepower, led by a powerhouse woman behind the grill, blending Asian-American smoked meat traditions with bold takes on brisket, ribs, and Southern-style comfort classics.

Winnie Yee has turned her passion for cooking into a foodie's paradise, blending tradition with modern, crave-worthy fusion that keeps guests coming back for more. With three 1,000-gallon steel smokers named Romulus, Sheena, and Remus greeting you outside at the entrance, she's ready to serve what many call the best BBQ in Orange County.

The menu starts with American barbecue staples: white oak-smoked prime brisket, pulled pork seasoned with a dry rub, tender spare ribs, and juicy chicken quarters, then goes further. Yee layers in Chinese influences with pork belly char siu glazed in an aromatic eight-spice blend and dry-aged siu yuk with an ultra-crispy crackling. After appearances on Food Network's BBQ Brawl, Chopped, and Beat Bobby Flay, she's earned recognition not just for her skills, but for her creativity and confidence in the kitchen.

Randy's Donuts

At the Anaheim Packing House, Randy's Donuts has quickly become a must-visit stop, thanks to the passion and hustle of mother-daughter duo Sara and Olivia Padilla. Their path into the donut world wasn't exactly planned, Sara spent over 25 years as a nurse in senior living and never imagined owning a donut shop. But when the opportunity to bring Randy's Donuts to the Packing District arrived in January 2025, the family took a leap of faith. What started as an unexpected venture quickly became a thriving family business rooted in community, hard work, and many delicious donuts.

A longtime Orange County resident, Sara raised her family in Santa Ana, where Olivia grew up surrounded by sports, creativity, and a strong work ethic. Now 27, Olivia has stepped into a leadership role running daily operations, connecting with customers, and growing the brand's presence, especially on social media.

Together, they've turned their Anaheim location into more than just a donut shop. It's a welcoming, high-energy space that reflects their story. Known for iconic oversized donuts and a classic West Coast reputation, Randy's has drawn locals and visitors alike, becoming one of the most popular stops inside the Packing House.

Sunbliss Cafe

Located in sunny Anaheim Hills, Sunbliss Cafe has quickly become a standout favorite in the local food scene. This vibrant, women-led café earned national recognition after landing on Yelp's Top 100 Places to Eat in the U.S., ranking as high as #6! A milestone driven by rave community reviews and fiercely loyal customers.

Known for its colorful, Instagram-worthy drinks, house-made syrups, and fresh, feel-good menu, Sunbliss Cafe blends creativity with quality in every cup and bite. What started as a passion project for owner Taniya Ahmed, has grown into one of Orange County's most talked-about cafés, proof that with vision, hustle, and heart, a local favorite can become a nationally recognized name.
 

ZeroZero39 Pizzeria

With fresh-made dough, high-quality ingredients, and a deep-rooted passion for authenticity, ZeroZero39 Pizzeria is more than a place to grab a slice, it's a heartfelt piece of Italy brought to Anaheim by husband-and-wife owners Niccolo and Michi, who turned a shared dream into something real.

Originally from Verona, a charming city near Venice, they set out to share an authentic taste of home with their new community in Southern California. Their Roman-style pizzeria delivers exactly that: light, crispy pizzas crafted with traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients, offering all who visit a true bite of Italy in every slice. At the heart of it all is Michi, the driving force behind the operation. Described as Niccolo's "General, his Private, and his entire Army," Michi embodies the grit, passion, and dedication that fuel the business every single day.

Anaheim has always had a way of turning passion into something worth showing up for, and these women are exactly why. Come hungry, come curious, and come ready to be surprised by what this city has to offer!

Women-Owned Spots to Know & Love

While we can’t capture them all, each of these businesses is well worth a visit. Show your support for these incredible women-led spots and stay for the culture, that makes our community so special.

1. Cafe Biaani: A great brunch spot to enjoy a refreshing Iced Cafe de Olla or a Gansito Iced Coffee and authentic Oaxacan tortas, tlaydudas, and a torta asada in a cozy café vibe rooted in culture and community. Grab a coffee and connect with the team to hear their story, or better yet, taste the culture!
2. Local Gem Collective: Great things are happening at this unique marketplace that supports 50+ small, women-owned brands, making it the hub for all local markers, artists and entrepreneurs. Also hosting free shop events and workshops, stay up to date on their website for when those are happening.
3. Calaca Mamas Cantina: Founded by sisters duo Angela & Mariam El Haj, this lively cantina blends culture, sustainability, and family-driven restaurant into a amazing home-cooked meal.
4. Henry's Bar and Grill: There’s nothing like a good neighborhood bar, and Henry's delivers for over 60 years! This women-owned local favorite serves up pizza, burgers, wings, and a great tap list, all in a laid-back spot perfect for catching the game and feeling right at home. Plus, there's a pet-friendly patio!