Discover Community and Deliciousness at Rainbow Play Cafe in New West
New West is home to a vibrant community, and local businesses like Rainbow Play Cafe are at the heart of what makes it special. We recently chatted with Xanat, the owner, to learn more about her unique space and what she offers.
Rainbow Play Cafe is a wonderful local spot described by Xanat as primarily a Mexican coffee shop that includes an indoor play area. When it first opened, it focused on coffee and the play space, but it has since expanded to include food items like tacos, pozole, tortilla soup, and Mexican gourmet sandwiches called tortas. This expansion came largely from customer requests, particularly from parents who wanted a place where they could sit and converse while their children played. Xanat emphasizes that they want to highlight their offerings of coffee, frappes, and organic Mexican coffee, known for their great quality.
Crispy Carnitas
Xanat’s journey to opening Rainbow Play Cafe was inspired by her own experience. After moving to Canada 10 years ago and becoming a first-time mom without family or friends nearby, she felt the isolation that can accompany having a new baby. Visiting play cafes in Vancouver showed her the value of a place where moms could connect, enjoy a coffee, and not feel judged if their baby cried. She realized such spaces could help avoid the feeling of isolation. After five years of planning, her vision became a reality, creating a hub where parents can find resources and community.
For Xanat, the most rewarding part of her business is seeing moms connect and make friends. She shared a touching story about two customers who met at the cafe, discovered their first children were the same age, and were both pregnant with their second, and are now friends who go for walks together. This, she says, felt like succeeding in the ultimate goal and purpose of the business.
Taro Frappe
While the play area for kids aged zero to five is a key feature, Xanat has been working to shift the perception that Rainbow Play Cafe is just a play area or daycare. The indoor play area is thoughtfully equipped with toys chosen in consultation with a child psychologist, focusing on items that encourage motor skills and have a purpose, like Montessori-style toys. They also host special events like yoga for kids and arts and crafts, though these are secondary to the main offerings.
Xanat takes particular pride in the tacos, noting that her partner, a chef from Mexico, ensures their authenticity and flavor. They take care in preparation, with some items taking 24 hours to marinate, and they use ingredients like chilies imported from Mexico, sourced from a local Latin product store. This commitment to quality shines through, and they even offer a Taco Tuesday promo.
Running a local business comes with challenges, such as the costs involved and the need to continuously reach new customers as children grow out of the target age range. This highlights why supporting local businesses like Rainbow Play Cafe is so important – they rely on community patronage to thrive.
ou can find out more about Rainbow Play Cafe or connect with Xanat online. She maintains a strong online presence on Instagram and Facebook and updates her website weekly. You can also call the cafe. If you plan to visit the play area on a weekend, she recommends calling ahead as they are popular for private events like birthday parties and may be closed.
Rainbow Play Cafe is more than just a place to grab a coffee or for kids to play; it's a place built on the desire to foster community and support. Consider stopping by to enjoy their quality coffee, try their authentic Mexican food, and experience the welcoming atmosphere Shanette has created. Supporting local businesses means supporting the heart of our community!
Address: 921 12th St, New Westminster, BC V3M 4K7
Phone: (604) 553-1019
Website: https://rainbowplaycafe.ca/
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