On April 21, 2025, Newark’s dynamic business community welcomed Sweet Jeans Kitchen + Espresso Bar, a new café founded by Michele Vaccari Harriott, a Chopped contestant, and business partner Victor Soldano. The grand opening of the café marks a significant milestone for the City of Newark, Audible, and Invest Newark in their ongoing efforts to drive economic growth and support small businesses in Newark.
Located at the heart of Newark’s bustling downtown, Sweet Jeans Kitchen + Espresso Bar is the first retail business to join Audible’s Business Attraction Program and the inaugural recipient of the Newark Retail Reactivation Initiative. These initiatives are designed to help local entrepreneurs, particularly those in underserved areas, get their businesses off the ground and contribute to the city’s growing economy.
In a ceremony attended by Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka, Audible CEO Bob Carrigan, Invest Newark CEO Marcus Randolph, and other local officials, the café was celebrated as a new community hub that brings specialty coffee, artisanal pastries, seasonal meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere to Newark.
The Business Attraction Program, powered by Audible, provides businesses with grants, relocation assistance, and mentorship, supporting the city’s mission to become a leading business destination. With a focus on founders of color and women entrepreneurs, the program has already doubled in size since last year, including over 20 companies across various sectors.
“This opening is a testament to the resilience of Newark’s entrepreneurial spirit,” said Mayor Ras J. Baraka. “What Michele and Victor have built here, with support from Audible and Invest Newark, is exactly the kind of vision we want to see thrive in Newark. This city continues to grow through community collaboration, and Sweet Jeans Kitchen exemplifies that.”
Invest Newark has been instrumental in helping local startups like Sweet Jeans thrive, providing crucial support through funding and resources. Marcus Randolph, CEO of Invest Newark, emphasized the importance of community-driven initiatives, noting that the café’s opening contributes to Newark’s ongoing transformation into a thriving hub for small businesses and retail.
Sweet Jeans Kitchen + Espresso Bar’s focus on high-quality food, coffee, and community engagement is what sets it apart. Michele Vaccari Harriott, a Newark native, shared her excitement about opening in her hometown. “It’s about more than just business for us—it’s about creating a space where people feel connected, where they can gather, enjoy great food, and be part of something special,” said Harriott. “With the support of Audible, the City of Newark, and Invest Newark, we are building a community hub that will benefit everyone.”
The Retail Reactivation Initiative, launched by the City of Newark in 2023, continues to provide financial support for Newark-based businesses, offering assistance with fit-out costs and furnishing needs. This initiative is made possible by Urban Enterprise Zone funds and has been crucial in revitalizing Newark’s retail scene.
Audible’s support of Sweet Jeans Kitchen and other local businesses underscores its commitment to contributing to Newark’s economic vitality. According to Aisha Glover, Audible’s Global Head of Urban Innovation, the company’s efforts to support businesses and create spaces that reflect the city’s culture are key to Newark’s growth and vibrancy.
With plans to expand and continue supporting local businesses, Sweet Jeans Kitchen + Espresso Bar stands as an example of Newark’s thriving entrepreneurial community and its growing influence as a business destination. The café will offer not only great food and coffee but also foster community events and cultural exchanges in the heart of Newark.
Visit Sweet Jeans Kitchen + Espresso Bar for a taste of Newark’s evolving food scene and experience the power of community-driven entrepreneurship.
