Caffeine & Culture: Coffee Break with Angela Yee at CRED Café

On Saturday, March 22nd, I had the absolute pleasure of attending Coffee Break with Angela Yee at the incredible CRED Café. Located in Detroit’s Rivertown District, just steps from our internationally acclaimed Riverwalk, this prohibition-era-inspired café transformed into the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of coffee, cocktails, and community. Sponsored by Coffee Uplifts People (CUP), Angela Yee’s premier coffee brand, the event was a sensory delight from start to finish.

An Unforgettable Experience at CRED Café

From the moment I stepped into CRED Café, I was captivated by its cozy, intimate ambiance. By day, it’s a charming neighborhood café, but by night, it unveils a hidden speakeasy that takes you back to Detroit’s roaring Prohibition era. The space was alive with energy—laughter, great conversations, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air.

The custom “Coffee Break” cocktail created by Avery Taylor, featured four carefully curated coffee-infused cocktails, each with a unique spirit base—rum, tequila, gin, and bourbon. The “Inner City Brew” stole the show for me! It offered the perfect balance of espresso, Bulleit Bourbon, toasted almond bitters, and maple.

Coffee, Cocktails & Community

One of the highlights of the event was the strong sense of community. Coffee Break with Angela Yee wasn’t just about sipping great coffee; it was about celebrating culture, connection, and empowerment. As an advocate for diversity in the coffee industry, Coffee Uplifts People is doing more than just roasting beans—it’s redefining the coffee experience.

Founded in 2020 by Angela Yee, Tony Forte, and LaRon Batchelor, CUP operates with a 100% People of Color (POC) supply chain, ensuring that their mission of equity and inclusion touches every part of the coffee-making process. With direct-trade relationships spanning Ethiopia, Peru, Indonesia, Mexico, Kenya, and Brazil, they’re making a real impact—one cup at a time.

CRED Café: Detroit’s Hidden Gem

Beyond the event, CRED Café itself deserves its own spotlight. This isn’t just a coffee shop—it’s a destination. Whether you’re stopping by for your morning espresso, enjoying a leisurely afternoon cocktail, or sneaking behind the secret door to the hidden speakeasy, CRED offers an experience unlike any other in the city. Its commitment to supporting Detroit’s vibrant food and beverage artisans makes it a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike.

A Celebration of Coffee & Culture

As I left Coffee Break with Angela Yee, I couldn’t help but feel inspired. It was more than just a coffee tasting—it was a reminder of how powerful a simple cup of coffee can be in bringing people together. From the incredible hospitality at CRED Café to the mission-driven work of CUP, the event was a beautiful fusion of flavors, culture, and purpose.

If you haven’t yet, make sure to check out Coffee Uplifts People and plan a visit to CRED Café—trust me, your taste buds (and your soul) will thank you!

Until next time, cheers to good coffee, great company, and unforgettable experiences!