Discovering LGBTQ+ Friendly Spaces Through Local Businesses
Los Angeles stands as a beacon of diversity and inclusion. The city nurtures a vibrant community of LGBTQ+ owned businesses. From LGBTQ+ restaurants and cafes to fashion boutiques and wellness studios, these businesses foster safe and empowering environments. Supporting them helps build stronger communities and celebrates equality through commerce.
Why Support LGBTQ+ Owned Businesses in Los Angeles?
When you spend money at LGBTQ+ owned businesses in LA, you’re doing more than shopping or dining. You help create equitable economic opportunities for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. These establishments often provide safe spaces for employees and customers alike, support LGBTQ+ youth, and raise awareness through visibility and activism.
Here’s why your support matters:
- Empower local LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs – Every dollar helps build sustainable businesses.
- Foster inclusive communities – These places often welcome diverse audiences and host events that promote acceptance.
- Promote social equity – Supporting minority-owned businesses contributes to economic justice.
Top LGBTQ+ Owned Businesses to Visit in LA
Looking to support authentic LGBTQ+ owned businesses in Los Angeles? Here are some standout local favorites across different categories, each offering something unique while representing pride in their heritage and values.
LGBTQ+ Owned Cafés and Restaurants in Los Angeles
These eateries not only serve delicious food and drinks but also uplift their communities through inclusive practices.
- Civil Coffee - Highland Park – Known for ethically sourced beans and vibrant community vibes.
- My 2 Cents LA - Mid-Wilshire – Owned by a proud LGBTQ+ chef, this cozy spot offers Southern comfort food with heart.
- Cuties Coffee (Pop-Up Events and Online) – Once a full café, it still lives on as a popup and LGBTQ+ event brand focusing on safe gathering spaces.
- Honeybee Burger – A plant-based fast food restaurant founded by LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs committed to sustainability and equity.
LGBTQ+ Owned Boutiques and Fashion in LA
From streetwear to high fashion, these stores highlight LGBTQ+ creativity and design.
- Sharpe Suiting – A gender-neutral tailoring fashion house inspiring confidence for all identities. Popular among queer celebs and wedding clients.
- Otherwild - Echo Park – A queer-owned shop supporting local artists. You'll find apparel, home goods, and sustainable products.
- Queer Candle Co. (Available via pop-ups & collaborations with LA shops) – Hand-poured candles supporting queer causes with every scent.
LGBTQ+ Friendly Wellness Studios & Services
Well-being is a core value in many LGBTQ+ owned businesses in LA. These spas, salons, and studios offer relaxation with representation.
- Viva Wellness - West Hollywood – An LGBTQ+ friendly medical spa offering skin and wellness services in a nonjudgmental environment.
- Flourish Holistic Skin Studio – Queer-owned facial studio prioritizing individual care for all gender identities.
- Hot Yoga LA – Often hosts LGBTQ+ affirming classes and is co-owned by a queer yoga entrepreneur promoting mental health through practice.
How Do I Find Verified LGBTQ+ Owned Businesses in My Area?
Want to continue supporting LGBTQ+ businesses beyond this list? Here’s where you can look:
- LGBTQ+ Chambers of Commerce – The Los Angeles LGBT Chamber of Commerce provides business directories and hosts local events.
- Community Based Yelp Lists – Filter searches with “LGBT-owned” tags or check community-curated collections.
- Social Media Spotlights – Many LGBTQ+ influencers and community centers highlight local businesses during Pride Month and year-round.
How Can I Support LGBTQ+ Owned Businesses Year-Round?
Buying their products is just one way. Show continuous support through these meaningful actions:
- Leave positive reviews on Google and Yelp to boost visibility for small LGBTQ+ businesses in LA.
- Attend LGBTQ+ events and markets where local vendors showcase their goods and services.
- Share their stories on social media by tagging and adding testimonials.
- Buy gift cards for friends to introduce them to new LGBTQ+ friendly spaces.
How Can I Tell If A Business Is LGBTQ+ Owned?
Not all LGBTQ+ businesses display it openly—and that’s okay. But here are ways to find out:
- Look for directories like the NGLCC (National LGBT Chamber of Commerce)
- Search for Pride flags, inclusive messaging, or community support on their website and social media.
- Check for participation in Pride events or LGBTQ+ collaborations.
When in doubt, it’s always okay to respectfully ask. Supporting LGBTQ+ owned businesses is rooted in respect, empowerment, and shared values of inclusion.
FAQ: Supporting LGBTQ+ Owned Businesses in Los Angeles
What are the best neighborhoods in LA to find LGBTQ+ owned businesses?
West Hollywood, Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Downtown LA have high concentrations of LGBTQ+ owned and allied businesses. These neighborhoods are known for their inclusive culture and community presence.
Are there any LGBTQ+ business markets or fairs in LA?
Yes. The Queer Mercado, DTLA Proud Market, and pop-up events during Pride Month often feature LGBTQ+ vendors. These events offer great opportunities to meet entrepreneurs in person.
Can I support LGBTQ+ businesses online if I don't live in LA?
Absolutely. Many LA-based LGBTQ+ brands offer online shopping and digital services. From clothing to candles, wellness products to coaching, you can support them from anywhere.
Is it important to seek intersectional LGBTQ+ owned businesses?
Yes. Many LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs also represent other marginalized identities, including Black, Latinx, API, and Indigenous communities. Supporting intersectional businesses strengthens diverse representation and equity in Los Angeles.
Empower Community Through Everyday Choices
Choosing to support LGBTQ+ owned businesses is a meaningful way to make an impact in Los Angeles. Every meal, shirt, or yoga class purchased from these establishments helps promote equality. It champions people who continue to shape the identity and future of LA.
Whether you’re a local, a newcomer, or just visiting, take the time to explore and uplift LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. Your support ensures their voices, visions, and values thrive year-round.
