Michigan/Jefferson Avenues History, Heritage & Family-Owned

Explore the History

The corner of Michigan and Broadway is the heart of Buffalo’s African-American history and heritage. Here you’ll find the Colored Musicians Club and Museum, the Michigan Street Baptist Church and the Nash House – three institutions that made significant contributions to the life of the community and today form the foundation of Buffalo’s efforts to create a heritage tourism district. Plans are in the works to restore a building adjacent to the Baptist Church that will include a visitor center designed to tell the stories of the people who lived, worked and passed through this historic neighborhood. A few blocks away, you’ll find Jefferson Avenue, the commercial heartbeat of Buffalo’s near East Side and businesses like Zawadi Books, Golden Cup Coffee and Doris Records.

At a Glance

A walk through one of Buffalo’s many neighborhoods can be stimulating, entertaining and a chance to see how the locals live. For most travelers, shopping is near the top of the list of things to do while away from home, and everyone is always looking for the next spot to relax and re-energize after getting in some serious steps. With that in mind, here are some suggestions about where to sip, shop and savor while in the BUF.

Sip

Golden Cup

With coffee varieties from around the world, and a no-frills breakfast menu, this coffee shop is a perfect morning pick-me-up.

Unapologetic Coffee

Owned by two sisters, Unapologetic Coffee’s cozy café offers several options for your caffeine fix.

Oakk Room

Built in a converted auto shop, the Oakk Room is known for their friendly atmosphere and extensive cocktail menu, featuring dozens of options.

Shop

Zawadi Books

Zawadi Books specializes in books and materials that are by and about people of African descent, regularly holding author readings and book discussions.