Rochester Woman-Owned Businesses

The region that nurtured the earliest seeds of the women’s rights movement is today home to many thriving and innovative businesses owned by women. From food, to fashion, health and wellness to art and culture, there are so many different women-owned businesses in Rochester to explore. In recognition of Women’s History Month, we’ve rounded up a few (of the many!) women-owned businesses in Rochester to check out this month.

Food & Drink

Acorn Exchange. The Acorn Exchange is a hidden gem found within the beautiful marble lobby of the downtown Clinton Square Building. The Acorn Exchange is a grab and go cafe that specializes in made-to-order custom built sandwiches on its famous scratch-baked focaccia bread.

AltBar. A non-alcoholic bar and bottle shop that offers zero-proof cocktails, non-alcoholic beverages and a place to connect with others. Brick and mortar location in the North Winton Village area opening in summer 2024.

Apogee Wine Bar. Located in Rochester’s trendy Park Avenue neighborhood, Apogee is owned by sommelier Simone Boone. Taste wines by the glass or by the bottle from around the world on a highly curated menu.

Brown Hound Downtown. Located inside the Memorial Art Gallery, the Brown Hound Downtown is owned by Trish Asher and is known for its focus on fresh, creative, seasonal menus.

Bumpa's Pizzeria. A family-owned business with a passion for bringing family and food together, Bumpa's Pizzeria opened in 2022 and is sure to be a new local favorite of yours.

Carmen's Cooking. Delicious, authentic Puerto Rican style foods including hot-pressed sandwiches, meals and empanadillas, along with Vegetarian options, occasional specials and daily desserts.

Casa Larga Vineyards. Originally founded in 1974, today the winery – located just outside of Rochester in Fairport, NY – features a wide range of delicious varietals, including award winning ice wines. Casa Larga’s president today is Andrea Colaruotolo O’Neill, daughter of the winery’s founders, Andrea and Ann Colaruotolo.

Crisp Rochester. Owners Valerie & Wendi Loyet have brought modern comfort food (with a Texas influence) to a warm and inviting space in Rochester's South Wedge neighborhood. Don't miss Sunday brunch!

Cottage Hotel of Mendon. A full-service restaurant with items and ingredients coming from local farms, artisans, and craft beverage-makers. 

Effortlessly Healthy. Cafe and food truck specializing in health-minded food, with dine-in, carry out & delivery, plus weekly meal plans.

Flight Wine Bar. Located in Corn Hill, this wine bar features various wines, small bites, special events and more.

Flower City Food Tours. Sample the favorite foods of Rochester while nourishing your belly and your brain on a walking food tour. Indulge in some of the favorite foods of Pittsford, Rochester, the Neighborhood of the Arts, and Park Ave. 

Gourmet Goodies. A cafe/bakery located in Victor, NY that offers personalized wedding cakes and desserts, as well as custom cakes, cupcakes, pastries and cookies for any special event as well as gluten-free offerings.

Hedonist Artisan Chocolates. Located in Rochester’s South Wedge neighborhood, owner Jennifer Posey has been crafting creative confections since 2007.

Island Wraps. Serving up delicious Caribbean and American cuisine, this casual fine-dining family restaurant will quickly become your new go-to for dining out, takeout and catering services.

Joe Bean Coffee Roasters. Direct trade coffee roasters who connect their customers to the award-winning, small scale network of farmers. Their coffee can be found online at joebeanroasters.com, in-house at their coffee roastery, and served in restaurants, cafes, retailers, and more.

Laughing Gull Chocolates. Laughing Gull is on a mission to “save the world with chocolate, one truffle at a time.” Owners Lindsay Tarnoff, Karla Boyle and Allison Zukoski infuse chocolate with community from their workshop and storefront on E. Main Street in the North Winton Village neighborhood.

Living Roots Wine & Co. Co-owner Colleen Hardy offers visitors to the Finger Lakes’ first urban winery flavors from both the Finger Lakes and Australia. Visit the Living Roots chic tasting room in Rochester’s Neighborhood of the Arts.

Lovin' Cup. This popular bistro located near the campus of RIT is co-owned by Leslie Zinck. The menu features everything from simple favorites to gourmet goodies, and an impressive craft beer list. 

Madeline’s Catering. Indulge in the delicious, full-service catering services provided by Madeline’s Catering, who has been chef-owned and operated since 1990.

Marge's Lakeside. Ever wanted to pack it in and head south like the lyrics of a Jimmy Buffet tune? Just visit Marge’s Lakeside near Seabreeze. Open all year long, Marge’s is more than just a beloved dive bar on Lake Ontario, but a piece of Rochester’s history whose walls show a visual timeline of the patrons and parties that have made it a destination since the 1960’s.

Marshall Street. Marshall Street Bar and Grill is committed to becoming a positive community partner that features a friendly neighborhood atmosphere with great drink specials and a full menu of delicious food!

Mendon 64. A fine dining experience located in Mendon 64, this restaurant offers a casual elegance, a sophisticated cuisine and a tasteful wine list. 

Neutral Grounds Coffeehouse. Neutral Ground Coffeehouse is right on the canal in Pittsford featuring locally sourced ice cream, full coffee bar, pastries, breakfast and lunch. Owner Marianne Warfle recently opened a second location in the historic Corn Hill neighborhood.

Nine Spot Brewing. A farm brewery and tap room with a focus on highlighting New York State ingredients, culture, and history.

Nothing Bundt Cakes. This sweet bakery franchise is enjoyed across the country, and luckily that includes Rochester! Choose from a variety of flavors and sizes, all topped with their signature frosting.

Old School Cafe. Located in a 150-year-old school house, this unique cafe offers a casual, vintage atmosphere with a thoughtful menu focused on coffee, espresso, pastry, and brunchy food.

Peppa Pot. Delicious Jamaican restaurant with dine in or takeout options for lunch and dinner. Sunday brunch offerings and catering are also available. 

Petit Poutinerie. Home of some of Rochester's best poutine, Petit Poutinerie has two food trucks and a restaurant. Delicious, unique poutine options and other menu items available (including poutine flights!).

Salena’s Restaurant. Enjoy Mexican food and drinks inside this Village Gate Square restaurant, which has been open in Rochester for over 25 years.  

Shelly’s Sweet Shoppe. A locally-owned and operated one-stop-shop for all your sweets and treats, Shelly’s Sweet Shoppe offers a large variety of baked goods for pickup and delivery.  

Sweet Fortune Cookies. A unique, delicious and affordable treat owned and operated right here in Rochester, NY. These customized fortune cookies make for the coolest corporate gifts and the sweetest party favors. 

The Cub Room. This South Wedge restaurant known for its upscale seasonal cuisine & elevated cocktails is co-owned by Jodi Johnson and her husband Greg. 

Traut’s Treats. Established in 1992, this full-service gift basket, homemade candy, and gourmet food company is sure to have something to satisfy your sweet tooth! 

Union Tavern. Co-owner Kelly Bush and her team at the Union Tavern serve up a New England tavern style menu from inside a historic building in Sea Breeze, NY.

Health & Wellness

Compass Cycle & Flow. Compass Cycle & Flow is Rochester's first fitness studio dedicated to Rhythm Riding Cycling & Power Vinyasa Flow Yoga. Founders and sisters, Ashley Biryla and Nicole Branagan, have cultivated a passionate community within Compass Cycle’s Neighborhood of the Arts studio.

Fleet Feet Rochester. Get all your running essentials from Fleet Feet Rochester, a locally-owned retail store for runners and walkers. Owner Ellen Brenner and her team offer footwear, apparel and training programs for runners of all skills and experience.

Glenna's CBD Best Oil & Spa. Glenna’s CBD Owner & CEO, Glenna Colaprete-Hudson started the woman owned company in 2015, after successfully treating her own chronic and painful nerve entrapment. She is dedicated to helping all people and pets live their best life.

The Groom Room. The Groom Room Men’s Spa Lounge is the first Minority/ Black owned Day Spa dedicated solely to Men’s health and wellness in the City of Rochester. 

Need Salon. A full service salon and spa focused on self-care and wellness in the heart of downtown Rochester.

Roc City Circus. Roc City Circus is Rochester, NY's newest circus arts training facility that offers aerial classes for beginners and advanced students.

RocVentures. If you are looking for fitness, fun team building or just a way to get in from the cold weather – you will find it all at RocVentures. Climbers of all skill levels are welcome.

Tru Yoga. This community-oriented yoga studio in the South Wedge is co-owned by Imani Olear. Imani is also the founder of Yoga 4 a Good Hood, a nonprofit organization “changing communities one downward dog at a time,” and focused on introducing more people of color to the practice of yoga.

Shopping & Gifts

Cleo + Kin. A boutique lifestyle shop in the heart of Pittsford. The shop offers a wide selection of goods from women's clothing to home decor and baby gifts.

Fabulous Flowers and Gifts. Since 1958, Fabulous Flowers has been Rochester, NY's leading flower and gift shop for occasions throughout Monroe County. Family owned and operated by the Dougherty's, the shop boasts a talented staff of award-winning designers.

Figgy Studio and Shop. Located on Park Avenue, Figgy sells their own jewelry, items from 60+ local artists and small business owners, clothing and accessories from small businesses around the US. They pride themselves in the handmade creation of small-batch, high quality, affordable jewelry for everyone.

Laura Mady's Boucher Jewelry. Bespoke everyday jewelry & bracelet bar that specializes in handcrafted exotic semi-precious & precious gemstones in 14kt GF, sterling silver and vermeil. They also offer "permanent forever bracelets" with almost 50 chain styles in 14kt solid gold, sterling silver, black rhodium and 14kt gold filled options.

Mansawear. Located on Park Ave, designer Nita Brown will guide you through the process of selecting a style of clothing, your fabric of choice, and within a few weeks will have your custom piece handcrafted for you. Nita will create a style that is elegant, colorful, and uniquely you.

Marilla's Mindful Supplies. Marilla’s Mindful Supplies provides practical plastic free products to make sustainable life simple. You can find refills for your pantry products, personal care, and cleaning supplies all in one place. Discover eco friendly solutions that make sense at their location in Rochester's South Wedge.

NOTION. Providing local makers an outlet to make their creations available to the public, NOTION sells a variety of local, handmade creations and vintage goods. You’re bound to find unique goodies while supporting local creators in this store. 

Peppermint Boutique. This boutique owned by Tanvi Asher is the go-to spot when shopping for unique clothing and Rochester-themed gifts. The Rochester Pride in this store at the Culver Road Armory is evident.

Record Archive. Score some vinyl or vintage clothing at Record Archive, co-owned by Alayna Alderman, one of the largest record stores in the country and the first in the northeast to offer beer and wine to shoppers. Alayna’s accomplishments and contributions to the music store industry were further recognized when she recently received the Music Biz Independent Spirit Award from the Music Business Association.

ROC City Balloons. Make your event pop with ROC City Balloons, who provide a variety of balloon designs to enhance any occasion. With a variety of colors and designs this women-owned business is sure to bring your balloon vision to life. 

Roc Paper Straws. A new manufacturing company that makes high-quality, ecofriendly, paper drinking straws. Proudly based in Rochester, they are one of the few paper drinking straw manufacturers in the United States.

Rochester Brainery. Offering in-person and online classes, Rochester Brainery spotlights the talents and brains of locals in Rochester, NY.

Scents by Design. This pour-your-own candle and custom fragrance experience in Rochester’s Neighborhood of the Arts is woman-owned.  

Stacy K Floral & Winter Swan Coffee. Bringing joy to the community through flowers, gifts, and design and providing wedding and event florals to all of New York State. Newly added, and nestled inside the beautiful store of Stacy K Floral, Winter Swan Coffee will transport you to a world filled with the intoxicating aroma of freshly brewed beans amongst the beautiful fresh flowers.

The Op Shop. Sustainability meets solidarity when shopping at this local vintage and handmade sellers store. If you’re looking for sustainable, slow-fashion pieces you’re sure to find them here!

Art, Culture & Recreation 

Rochester has a rich arts and cultural scene. Experience one of these women-led attractions.

Colonial Belle. Charter a cruise down the historic Erie Canal, departing from Fairport, NY, on the Colonial Belle. The Belle is one of the only female owned tour boat on the Erie Canal. Plus, the Colonial Belle’s Captain Tammee is one of the only female passenger vessel captains working on the Erie Canal. 

Genesee Country Village & Museum. Discover the largest living history museum in New York State, Genesee Country Village & Museum, which today is led by Becky Wehle, who is the granddaughter of the museum’s founder.

Her Voice Carries Public Art Project. Learn about the inspiring women depicted in “Her Voice Carries,” a public art project in Rochester, NY and beyond, featuring women who are lifting up the voices of others.

Ironwood Studios. A vibrant community where women of all ages gather to explore the artistry of welding. Guided by metal artist Stacey Mrva, she teaches the techniques through various workshops at her studio in the Finger Lakes.

Long Acre Farms. Home to NY’s longest-running corn maze, The Amazing Maize Maze, and offering a variety of free family-friendly fun, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Long Acre Farms. 

Memorial Art Gallery. Located in the Neighborhood of the Arts, and considered one of the finest regional art museums in the country, the Memorial Art Gallery is known for its comprehensive, well-balanced collection and dynamic schedule of exhibitions year-round. 

National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House. Come and see the place Susan B. Anthony called home during the most politically active period of her life. Stand in the front parlor where she was arrested for voting in 1872. Experience her amazing story of courage and determination at this National Historic Landmark.

RMSC Museum & Science Center. This museum fosters curiosity about science, space, and nature through hands-on experiences at the Science Museum, Strasenburgh Planetarium, and Cumming Nature Center.

RocTours. Experience upstate up close and personal while enjoying sightseeing, craft beverages, history, and fun on a Rochester area tour! Choose your tour of choice and relax while RocTours drives you to various stops in an intimate, 6-passenger vehicle.

Sip Back & Relax Tours. Sip Back and Relax Tours customizes tasting tours for any occasion including corporate events, birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, friends weekends, couples getaways, or just a day to taste great wine and craft beer, cider, and spirits. From the transportation to the tasting appointments and even lodging, they will plan and book all the elements of your customized tour.

The Strong National Museum of Play. Home to the largest collection of toys, dolls and games in the world founded by collector Margaret Strong. museumofplay.org

Wickham Farms. Located on beautiful farmland in Upstate New York, Wickham Farms offers farm fresh fun and seasonal attractions that the whole family is sure to enjoy.

Lodging & Hospitality

Agathi & Co. A full-service event planning company. Owner Agathi Georgiou-Graham plans memorable events and operates Arbor Venues that includes three boutique event venues in the City of Rochester.

B&B at the Ellwanger Estate. From the moment you walk in to the Ellwanger Estate, you'll know you're not in any ordinary bed and breakfast. The Ellwanger Estate is an oasis where you'll actually enjoy spending time in your room as well as discovering the magnificent grounds.

Legacy Drama House. The Legacy Drama House is the "Venue With Variety"! The facility offers a wide array of hosting services ranging from private events such as baby/bridal showers, retirement parties, Sweet 16's, weddings/receptions, and funeral repasts and more.

The DeLand House on Main. A unique events venue located just steps away from the Erie Canal in the Village of Fairport. The building offers 9 different spaces and has professional, seasoned planners ready to assist you with your private event. 

Business & Community Services

Bella Events Group. Bella Events Group is a full-service event planning and venue management firm. BEG is owned and operated by Jenna Manetta-Knauf, owner of Roc Holiday Village and The Wilder Room in Downtown Rochester.

Day Trips Around Rochester, NY. A digital resource for travel inspiration, exploring communities and places of interest that are within two hours of Rochester.

Feeloh. A social scheduling app that helps you discover and plan curated activities with your friends.

Gallo Event Agency. Creating immersive experiences that adapt to changing needs, form lasting connections, and ensure long-term success. 

Immaginé Photography. Bring your family, business, or occasion to life with fun, casual, and relaxed photo shoots. Immaginé specializes in Executive and Senior Portraits, Commercial Photography, Children, Families, and Special Events.

InnoQuests LLC. Enhance your next event with an amplified scavenger hunt or customized game tailored for your event, organization, or city from InnoQuests LLC. 

Pellucid Travel. A full-service sports travel agency built and run by like-minded people focused on making good things happen for other people.

• Reach out to the following experts for branding and marketing assistance: Archer ATR, Brave World Media, Break the Ice Media and Rebecca Leclair Communications.

Looking for more information on woman-owned businesses in Rochester? Check out Women Owned Rochester to support and discover women-owned businesses in Rochester, NY.