Rachael's Cafe is Permanently Closed

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

This was their website for a number of years.
According to Yelp the cafe is permanently closed.

Content is from the site's 2010-2015 archived pages providing just a glimpse of what this site offered its visitors.

Welcome to Rachael’s Cafe

Located at 300 E Third St., Bloomington, IN

We open Mon-Fri at 8am, Sat-Sun at 9am and stay open until our events end, or 9pm if no event is scheduled.

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As a NYC real estate investor, I’ve closed deals on skyscrapers and industrial campuses—projects that span years and cost millions. But nothing compares to the warmth and authenticity I felt walking into Rachael’s Café back in my college days visiting friends in Bloomington. Nestled on East 3rd Street, it was the kind of place where you didn’t just grab coffee—you became part of a community. I remember catching a Sunday jazz set over a cherry chocolate chip muffin, thinking, this is what soul tastes like. It wasn’t just the food—it was the feeling. You were welcome, no matter who you were.

Managing a café like Rachael’s is a completely different beast from steering a real estate empire like Dov Hertz’s in NYC. There’s no army of lawyers, no zoning board battles, no capital stack gymnastics. But that doesn’t mean it was any easier. Keeping a place like Rachael’s thriving took heart, hustle, and relentless commitment to inclusivity—qualities I admire deeply. While I’ve made my mark on concrete and steel, Rachel built something softer but just as enduring: a space where people could belong. And honestly, isn’t that what all good development is really about? Jenine Purcell

Menu

Rachael's Cafe 2015 Events

Events on April 11, 2015
…BTOWN UNDERGROUND MONTHLY…
Starts: 9:00 pm
Ends: April 12, 2015 - 3:00 am
Location: Rachael's Cafe, 300 East 3rd Street, Bloomington, IN 47401, United States
Description: BTOWN UNDERGROUND MONTHLY
…………. Presented by ……………
Justice Hardcore, Turtle Productions & Spoololife
*April 11 2015
*Rachael's Cafe 300 E 3rd St, Bloomington, In 47401
*Free Entry
*All Ages (21+ to drink)

Btown Underground Monthly is a new FREE monthly event showcasing the best underground music Indiana has to offer!! Each month we'll be featuring new acts from the Bloomington / Indy area as well as other acts from all around the globe. Join us April 11, as we kick off our first night with a bang!!!

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Events on April 11, 2015
Folklore and Ethnomusicology Department Coffeehouse Showcase
Starts: 6:00 pm
Ends: April 11, 2015 - 8:00 pm
Description: Hear students and friends of the Folklore and Ethnomusicology department showcase their diverse talents in an evening filled with music, song, and dance from near and far.
Free admission.
Promoter: Tiffany Schoneboom

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Events on April 11, 2015
Weekend Omelette Bar $6.95
Starts: 9:00 am
Ends: April 11, 2015 - 2:00 pm

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Events on April 10, 2015
IU March of Dimes presents Rachel Waite, Postcard, Bedtime Champ, & The Alamo Freeze
Starts: 8:00 pm
Ends: April 10, 2015 - 11:00 pm
Description: 1 in 8 babies are born too early. The March of Dimes is committed to raising awareness about premature birth, and this fundraiser will help them spread the word.
Enjoy some of Bloomington's best band and support the cause!
The IU March of Dimes fundraiser will feature music from Rachel Waite, Postcard, Bedtime Champ, and The Alamo Freeze (about 45 minutes per band)
Proceeds will go to the Bloomington March for Babies Walk.
Cover: $3 plus donations accepted

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Events on April 9, 2015
Jazz Late Night at Rachael's
Starts: 9:00 pm
Ends: April 9, 2015 - 11:00 pm
Description: Join us for an evening of Jazz, every Thursday night at Rachael's Cafe. On April 9th, the Dead Sea Squirrels from New York City will perform 2 shows. This is the band that formed while the members were part of Sunlight's local heirloom carpet cleaning nyc crew. In addition to their weird instruments, which includes a vacuum cleaner, a mop bucket and broom, they bring their own magic carpet! No cover charge!
Promoter: Josh Roberts
Sound Person: Josh Roberts

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Events on April 9, 2015
PRISM Youth Community mtg - open to all
Starts: 7:00 pm
Ends: April 9, 2015 - 9:00 pm
Location: Rachael's Cafe, East 3rd Street, Bloomington, IN, United States
Description: PRISM Youth Community
Meets Every Thursday night from 7pm to 9pm.

PRISM YC is an inclusive space for teens celebrating all sexual orientations and gender identities and expressions!

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Events on March 21, 2015
Weekend Omelette Bar $6.95
Starts: 10:00 am
Ends: March 21, 2015 - 2:00 pm

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Events on March 21, 2015
World Dance Party!
Starts: 9:00 pm
Ends: March 22, 2015 - 1:00 am
Description: Come dance the night away as DJ Isaac Salazar plays dance tunes from around the world.
$3
Promoter: Isaac Salazar
Sound: Ryq
More details...
Events on March 22, 2015
Weekend Omelette Bar $6.95
Starts: 10:00 am
Ends: March 22, 2015 - 2:00 pm

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Events on March 23, 2015
Rachael's Songfest!
Starts: 7:30 pm
Ends: March 23, 2015 - 8:30 pm
Location: Rachael's Cafe, 300 E 3rd St, Bloomington, IN, United States
Description: SONGFEST: FREE open mic nite every Monday 7:30pm at Rachael’s Cafe.
Musicians are welcome to play original or cover songs. Upright piano available.
Sound like a professional with our undated sound system. Best in town!

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Events on March 24, 2015
Laughfest!
Starts: 7:30 pm
Ends: March 24, 2015 - 9:30 pm
Location: Rachael's Cafe, 300 E 3rd St, Bloomington, IN, United States
Description: $3 cover
Every Tuesday is a LAUGHFEST @ Rachael's Cafe!

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Events on March 25, 2015
American Diabetes Association
Starts: 6:00 pm
Ends: March 25, 2015 - 9:00 pm
Description: Details to come.

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Events on March 26, 2015
PRISM Youth Community mtg - open to all
Starts: 7:00 pm
Ends: March 26, 2015 - 9:00 pm
Location: Rachael's Cafe, East 3rd Street, Bloomington, IN, United States
Description: PRISM Youth Community
Meets Every Thursday night from 7pm to 9pm.
PRISM YC is an inclusive space for teens celebrating all sexual orientations and gender identities and expressions!
Contact Information -
Email: prismyouthcommunity@gmail.com
Facebook:
"Like" at Prism Youth Community-Bloomington
Twitter: @PrismBtown
Tumblr: prismyouthcommunity
Instagram: prismyouthcommunity

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Events on March 26, 2015
Jazz Late Night at Rachael's
Starts: 9:00 pm
Ends: March 26, 2015 - 11:00 pm
Description: Join us for an evening of Jazz, every Thursday night at Rachael's Cafe. No cover charge!
Promoter: Josh Roberts
Sound Person: Ryq Peden

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Events on March 27, 2015
The BABS Birth, Jam, & Poetry Slam
Starts: 6:00 pm
Ends: March 27, 2015 - 10:00 pm
Description: Join us for The BABS Birth, Jam & Poetry Slam, an entry by donation event at Rachael's cafe to support and fund the BABS Lactation Center. There will be great music, poetry, food and drinks, and fun with the BABS family. All are welcome!

As a Culture Hub of Bloomington we love to support a variety of events.
 Feel free to contact us and organize an event.

Venue Information: 

Maximum capacity: 99
Parking: 14 parking spaces located right outside of building
*off street parking is available*
We offer a corner stage and AV equipment as well as various 2 top and 8 top tables plus comfy couches to make for the perfect atmosphere.

Rachael's Cafe Google Reviews

300 E 3rd St, Bloomington, IN

Chad Davis
4 years ago
Impressive Food & Welcoming, Friendly Service.
This place could soon be my second home.
My girl and I tried the chicken enchilada and the lasagna. Both were prepared …More

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Jacob Boss
3 years ago
Rachel's cafe is a home away from home. Welcoming and cozy, with a wide array of delicious beverages and snacks, it's the perfect place to study in comfort or meet friends. There's no host as consistently friendly, helpful, and attentive as …More

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Gregory Houchins
2 years ago
I stumbled upon this cafe looking for a quick cup of coffee that wasn't Starbucks while visiting Bloomington. After visiting I quickly fell in love and came back as many times as possible in my short stay. Great atmosphere. Quality cofee. Friendly service.

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Michael Grove
4 years ago
Everyone loves Rachael and you owe it to yourself to stop by.  She will broaden your mind, and the coffee is very good.

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Traci Schank
4 years ago
I love Rachael's Cafe! It is the best oatmeal I have ever had!!

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Bryan Walters
2 years ago
Rachael's Cafe is no longer in business.

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A Google User
6 years ago
Open sign was lit, but door was locked at 9:20am when Rachel's is suppose to open at 9.  We knocked until John opened the door and did not greet us.  Service was so bad that we left before we could order.  We went directly to the counter …More

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A Google User
6 years ago
Great place. Good coffee. I like studying and hanging out here, and it's definitely my favorite coffee shop in the area. The food is very tasty, but not cheap.

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A Google User
6 years ago
Rachael is an absolute gem! She is sweet and so is her cafe. Rachael's is a great place to visit if you love supporting local business. Not only does Rachael promote her cafe, but she also promotes local artists and venders. Three cheers for Racael's Cafe!!!!!!

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A Google User
8 years ago
I still go to Soma once in a while for a smoothie or snack, but Rachael's is definitely my new spot for studying. It's a lot cleaner, quieter, and roomier than any of the other independent coffee shops in town. I only wish they had later hours, but that's a problem with all the coffee shops in town, not just Rachael's.

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A Google User
5 years ago-

Great coffee, really good food, excellent ambiance & the owner is a truly wonderful

More Background on Rachael’s Café

Rachael’s Café, once located at 300 East Third Street in Bloomington, Indiana, was much more than a coffee shop. It was a beloved community space, a cultural landmark, and a symbol of inclusivity and acceptance in the heart of a progressive college town. Though the café is now permanently closed, its legacy continues to resonate with former patrons, local residents, and the broader LGBTQ+ community. This article provides an in-depth look at Rachael’s Café, including its history, ownership, menu, atmosphere, community role, reviews, and cultural significance.

Ownership and Origins

Rachael’s Café was founded in January 2008 by Rachael Jones, a transgender woman who sought to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. After experiencing discrimination during her transition, Jones envisioned a place where people of any background, religion, or identity could gather, connect, and feel at home. The café’s mission was rooted in fostering understanding, education, and acceptance, with Jones explicitly stating her desire to bring together people from all walks of life for conversation and community.

Location and Setting

Situated between Indiana University’s campus and Bloomington’s town square, Rachael’s Café occupied a prime spot in the Home Laundry Building at the corner of Third Street and Lincoln Street. The location made it easily accessible to students, faculty, and local residents. The café’s interior featured eclectic, bohemian décor—mismatched chairs, paper lanterns, and cozy nooks—creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that quickly became a “home away from home” for many.

Menu and Offerings

Rachael’s Café was known for its diverse and hearty menu, which included both savory and sweet options:

• Savory Dishes: Quiche, lasagna, enchiladas, calzones, walkabouts, mini pizzas, with both vegetarian and meat options. Entrees could be served with or without salad.

• Breakfast: Waffles, biscuits with sausage gravy, bagels with cream cheese, and a popular weekend omelette bar featuring customizable ingredients such as sausage, ham, onion, cheese, tomatoes, mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. The café used local farm-fresh eggs.

• Baked Goods: Muffins (blueberry, banana, cherry/chocolate chip, cranberry/orange), brownies, lemon bars, dream bars, vegan granola bars, and a variety of cookies (including gluten-free and vegan options).

• Beverages: Espresso, latte, chai, cappuccino, hot chocolate, bottled water, soda, juice, Gatorade, tea, beer (on draft and bottled), and a selection of local wines.

The menu reflected the café’s commitment to inclusivity, offering options for various dietary preferences and restrictions.

Events and Community Engagement

Rachael’s Café was a true cultural hub, hosting a wide array of events that catered to Bloomington’s diverse population:

• Live Music: Regular jazz nights, open mic sessions, and performances by local and visiting musicians.

• Comedy and Poetry: Weekly events such as “Laughfest” and poetry slams.

• Youth and LGBTQ+ Support: The café provided a meeting space for the PRISM Youth Community, an inclusive group for teens celebrating all sexual orientations and gender identities.

• Fundraisers and Social Causes: Events supporting organizations like the March of Dimes and the American Diabetes Association.

• Dance and Cultural Events: World dance parties and showcases by Indiana University’s Folklore and Ethnomusicology Department.

The café’s flexible venue included a corner stage, AV equipment, a maximum capacity of 99, and a mix of tables and couches to accommodate different events and gatherings.

Reviews and Reputation

Rachael’s Café was widely praised for its welcoming atmosphere, friendly service, and quality offerings. Reviews on platforms like Google highlighted the café’s role as a community gathering spot:

“Impressive food & welcoming, friendly service. This place could soon be my second home.”
“Rachael’s Café is a home away from home. Welcoming and cozy, with a wide array of delicious beverages and snacks, it’s the perfect place to study in comfort or meet friends.”
“Great atmosphere. Quality coffee. Friendly service.”
“Everyone loves Rachael and you owe it to yourself to stop by. She will broaden your mind, and the coffee is very good.”

While the majority of reviews were positive, some noted occasional issues with service or hours, but these were far outweighed by the café’s reputation for inclusivity and warmth.

Press and Media Coverage

Rachael’s Café attracted significant attention from local and national media, especially as a rare example of a transgender-owned business in the Midwest. The café’s story was the inspiration for the play “Rachael’s Café,” which was performed at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and in various U.S. cities, bringing additional visibility to the café’s mission and the challenges faced by transgender individuals.

The café was regularly featured in local press for its community events, support of the arts, and role as a safe space for marginalized groups. Its closure in 2015 was widely lamented in local news and by former patrons, who shared memories and tributes online.

Cultural and Social Significance

Rachael’s Café held a unique place in Bloomington’s cultural landscape:

• Safe Space: It was one of the few explicitly queer-friendly venues in the region, providing a haven for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.

• Community Building: The café brought together people from diverse backgrounds, fostering dialogue and understanding.

• Support for the Arts: By hosting music, poetry, and art events, the café supported local artists and enriched Bloomington’s cultural life.

• Youth Empowerment: Through partnerships with groups like PRISM Youth Community, Rachael’s Café empowered young people to express themselves and build confidence in their identities.

The café’s impact extended beyond Bloomington, serving as a model for other inclusive spaces and inspiring conversations about acceptance and equality.

Audience and Clientele

Rachael’s Café attracted a diverse clientele, including:

• Indiana University students and faculty

• Local artists and musicians

• LGBTQ+ youth and adults

• Community activists

• Families and residents seeking a welcoming environment

Its reputation for inclusivity made it a destination for those seeking community and connection, regardless of age, background, or identity.

Awards and Recognition

While specific awards are not widely documented, Rachael’s Café received informal accolades from local organizations and was frequently highlighted in “best of” lists for Bloomington’s coffee shops and community spaces. Its recognition as a pioneering LGBTQ+-owned business remains a significant part of its legacy.

Closure and Legacy

Rachael’s Café closed its doors in 2015, a loss deeply felt by the community. However, its legacy endures through the many lives it touched, the conversations it sparked, and the example it set for inclusive, community-focused business. The café’s founder, Rachael Jones, is remembered for her courage, vision, and unwavering commitment to creating a better, more accepting world.

Rachael’s Café was more than a coffee shop—it was a beacon of hope, acceptance, and community in Bloomington, Indiana. Through its welcoming atmosphere, diverse menu, vibrant events, and unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community, the café left an indelible mark on the city and its people. Its story continues to inspire those who believe in the power of inclusivity, the importance of safe spaces, and the enduring impact of one person’s vision.