We had the good fortune of connecting with Lindsey Mark and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lindsey, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Opening Good Day Cafe was the result of a lifelong dream. From my first job as a hostess, I knew there was something special about the service industry—the connections, the energy, the sense of community. Over the years, I worked in just about every role, and each experience added another layer to my understanding of what it takes to create a welcoming, successful space.

When I finally decided to open Good Day Cafe, it wasn’t a sudden decision; it was the culmination of years of dreaming, planning, and learning. I knew I wanted a space that reflected the diversity, vibrancy, and spirit of Long Beach—a place that celebrated the little joys of everyday life. Every step of this journey has been guided by my passion for service, my love for this community, and my belief that a good day can start with a cup of coffee and a genuine smile.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Good Day Cafe is a place where good coffee, good food, and good moods come together. We are a multi-roaster cafe serving ethically sourced coffee, house-made pastries, and fresh, locally sourced meals, all designed to bring a little goodness to your day.

Building this business wasn’t easy, but with the support of my wife, Nikki, and years of experience in the service industry, we made it happen. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way is that resilience and community are everything. You can’t do it alone. The people who show up for you and the ones you show up for make all the difference.

Good Day Cafe is more than a coffee shop. It is a celebration of connection, hard work, and the belief that every day has the potential to be a good one.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Long Beach, I’d definitely take them to Fourth Street. It’s the heart of the city’s independent spirit, filled with nearly 100 locally owned stores that offer unique goods, food, and experiences you won’t find anywhere else. We’d start with a relaxing stop at Good Day Cafe for a bite to eat and some great coffee, setting the tone for the day.

We’d also explore the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) and take in the vibrant murals in the Arts District. A trip to the Queen Mary is a must, for both the history and stunning harbor views. We’d spend a day at the beach and renting bikes or paddle boards.

For dinner, I’d take them to El Barrio for amazing food, followed by cocktails at Baby Gee or The Vine for a more intimate vibe. Long Beach really thrives on its community and diversity, and Fourth Street embodies that energy, it’s the best spot to experience the unique, welcoming vibe of the city.

This city has so much to offer, and Fourth Street is definitely the place to feel the pulse of Long Beach, whether you’re shopping, eating, or just enjoying the local scene.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate this shoutout to all of my past employers who gave me the chance to learn, grow, and find my footing in this industry. But more than anyone, I dedicate it to my wife, Nikki. She has been my constant—my strength, my sounding board, and my biggest believer. Through every challenge and every celebration, she’s been right there beside me. Good Day Cafe wouldn’t exist without her love, her unwavering support, and her belief in me.

Website: https://www.gooddaycafe.co/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gooddaycafe_lb?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Yelp: https://yelp.to/Kz5d7Kvv8C

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSoCal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.