"The end of the tour is an emotional experience. We’re deep into our caffeinated madness, sure, but Jane the Bakery brought up different memories for Alkhanshali. He grew up running down Cedar Street to get produce for his mom and to see such a colorful and vibrant shop next door to where he once picked up asparagus is a bit of a trip. Now he can order an elote turnover, oozing with cotija and lime, on the very same block where he once got jumped. The store features Equator Coffees — touted as California’s first queer-woman-owned roaster — and has a sweet, brightly lit dining space filled with laughter and music. Gentrification doesn’t seem to cross Alkhanshali’s mind. He’s too busy smiling and wondering about how more of his people from the neighborhood can get a taste of this surge in activity. “I’ve seen so much violence on these streets,” Alkhanshali says. “Having bitter moments allows you to enjoy sweet moments.”" - Paolo Bicchieri
