From food-focused nonprofit Forge City Works (FCW), Fire by Forge is a Pan-American inspired, chef-driven concept that includes a café, full-service restaurant, bar, and catering operation. After landmark restaurant Firebox (another social enterprise by Forge City Works) closed during the pandemic, the organization secured Hart Lift funding and reopened as Fire by Forge. Located at 539 Broad Street, the restaurant is fully integrated with FCW's culinary and customer service job training program.

Creative entrepreneur and passionate baker Monica Beaudoin started Bloom Bake Shop in 2020. Her sister, Alexandra Pilon, joined the company in 2021. Today, Bloom Bake Shop has set up shop on 80 Pratt Street, offering coffee, pastries, plants, floral arrangements, and other goods.

Aroma Café is a family-run coffee shop that serves a variety of drinks and snacks. Located at 100 Constitution Plaza, it provides a convenient stop for office workers and students at the nearby UConn campus.