Rachael’s Cafe owner embraces local support

There is one simple mission posted on the Rachael’s Cafe website.

“Rachael’s Cafe grew out of a desire to create a friendly, inclusive, peaceful atmosphere for all,” the site states. “Our mission is to bring understanding, education, and acceptance over a cup of coffee.”

Owner, creator and self-proclaimed dishwasher Rachael Jones designed this mission statement to illustrate the aspirations and goals of her Bloomington business. Located at 300 E. Third St., Rachael’s Cafe fulfills needs from local coffee cravings to open-mic desires.

There is a variety of homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner choices, as well as a selection of drink options, including coffee, beer, wine and more — not to mention a calendar loaded with events, such as local band performances, poetry readings and even a Zumba class.

Sophomore Abby Jenkins said she finds the Cafe ideal for studying, as well.
“When I need a change of scenery, I’ll walk to Rachael’s to study and have a cup of coffee,” Jenkins said.

Rachael’s Cafe puts an emphasis on going local. Jones is a member of the Local Food Guild and she is a frequent customer at the Bloomington Farmer’s
Market.

“I have local syrups, coffee, eggs and sausage, to name a few,” Jones said. “If everything could be local, it would be.”

Even the owner herself is local; Jones grew up in Bean Blossom, Ind., nestled in the hills of nearby Brown County. When it came to choosing a location for her first business, Jones said she had no doubts.

“Look around,” she said. “Bloomington is an oasis. This is the most accepting town in the state.”

Jones said an accepting town was absolutely essential in choosing the location of Rachael’s Cafe, considering that the owner, Rachael Jones, is a transgender woman.
“I started Rachael’s Cafe as a mode of survival,” she said. “I was failing in my position as ‘Eric the salesman’ because I wanted so badly to be Rachael. I realized that there weren’t very many job options for somebody like me, so what is going to pay the bills?”

While Rachael’s Cafe was created as a means of surviving, Rachael soon realized the business was also a gateway to tolerance.

“I thought, ‘Wow, wouldn’t it be great if we can change what people think about people who are different?’” she said.

Jones said she credits Bloomington for the opportunity to encourage a different state of mind. She is convinced there is no town more welcoming, and the diversity of her customers proves just that, she said.

“As a whole, Bloomington is just a special place,” Jones said. “Coming here feels good.”