On March 19, Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a statewide “Safe at Home” order in response to the rapid spread of the coronavirus, forcing all nonessential businesses to shut their doors in order to promote social distancing. While it may appear that many of your favorite stores have closed for the time being, there are a number of Pomona-based small businesses still in operation that you can support.
( LAUREN BRUNO | THE POLY POST)
Mi Cafecito
Fortunately, coffee shops are still considered essential — because no one wants to talk to anyone on Zoom before they’ve had their morning latte. For your fix, visit Mi Cafecito, a family-owned coffee shop that incorporates unique flavors like horchata and tres leches into its coffee menu.
In order to adapt during the coronavirus pandemic, Mi Cafecito has implemented online ordering and curbside pickup to make life easier and safer for its customers. As well, the coffee shop has begun selling staple food items, making it a one-stop shop for all your essential needs.
“Mi Cafecito is not only staying open and serving coffee during this coronavirus situation but they are also supporting the community by selling tortillas and other foods and by highlighting local vendors on their social media,” said Carolina Lopez, a fourth-year biology student. “Overall they are doing a great job and I am happy they are part of our community.”
Mi Cafecito’s current hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and to-go orders can be placed in-store or through its website at www.micafecitocoffee.com.
Dia De Los Puercos
Eating your lifetime supply of Top Ramen every day can get old pretty fast, but luckily Dia De Los Puercos is still open to spice up your meals. This restaurant elevates Mexican classics like tacos, burritos and tortas, making it a great place to try something that’s familiar, but with new flavors. According to its Instagram, Dia De Los Puercos is currently open Tuesday through Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. for to-go orders only. Customers can visit the website at www.diadelospuercos.com to view the limited menu, and can place orders over the phone or through Doordash or Grubhub.
Vital Pomona
Maybe you need plant tags for your new gardening hobby, or maybe you want a new candle to burn during your self-care routine. Whatever it is, Vital Pomona has you covered. Vital is a family-owned general store in the Downtown Pomona Arts Colony that carries all the odds and ends your heart could desire. While their storefront is closed, they have opened their online store so customers can still place orders, and they are offering shipping or curbside pickup options. Visit their website at www.vitalpomona.com to check out their inventory.
Homage Brewing
Just because you’re practicing social distancing doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy an adult beverage! Homage Brewing is a small-batch brewery in downtown Pomona that’s still dedicated to taking care of your craft beer needs during these tough times. Its taproom may be closed, but the brewery is currently taking credit/debit only-to-go and preorders Tuesday through Sunday. Homage offers a variety of bottled and canned beers, as well as growlers, for those who want to buy in bulk. For current hours, details on ordering and the most up-to-date menu offerings, visit the brewery’s Instagram @homagebrewing.
No matter what businesses you choose to support, make sure you do so safely! Remember to maintain a 6-foot distance from others and wear a mask if you do end up going out.