The Soulful Steep Is Where Pompano Goes to Slow Down, Reset, and Reconnect

Choose954
2 days ago
4 min read

When we asked the owner of The Soulful Steep what sparked the idea in the first place, the answer was simple and deeply human. They wanted to create a space where people walked out feeling better than when they walked in. Not just calmer, but more themselves.

That intention became the foundation for everything that followed. From the way the space feels at night to how the menu is built, The Soulful Steep is not accidental. It is personal. It is a lived experience turned into a shared offering.

From the outside, the space already signals that this is something different. The blue facade, cloud mural, and warm glow after dark invite curiosity. According to the owner, that openness matters. They wanted the space to feel welcoming before you even step inside.

A True Third Space, On Purpose

The owner was intentional about creating a true third space. A place that is neither home nor work, but something equally essential. Somewhere people could gather without obligation, linger without being rushed, and connect without pressure.

They chose Old Town Pompano specifically for that reason. An artsy, walkable neighborhood filled with like-minded people and creative energy felt primed for this kind of space. Even the garage-style door became part of the vision, literally opening the space to the street and the community beyond.

Unlike most cafés that close early, The Soulful Steep stays open late. The owner shared that this was non-negotiable. They wanted to serve people who crave connection after dinner, after work, after the noise of the day settles. It has since become a late-night refuge for artists, creatives, and anyone looking for something more meaningful than a quick drink.

A Space Rooted in Feeling, Not Trends

When asked what makes The Soulful Steep unique, the owner pointed to the blend of elements rather than any single feature. Organic teas and coffees. Local bakers. Artists. Music. Vinyl records. A salt cave. Community. All under one roof.

The goal was never to follow trends or fit neatly into a category. It was to create an atmosphere where people felt safe to be themselves. That philosophy shapes everything from the decor to the way guests are welcomed.

Old Town Pompano continues to shape the identity of the space as well. The neighborhood’s growth, creativity, and openness mirror what The Soulful Steep stands for. It is not polished perfection. It is evolving, expressive, and real.

The Salt Cave, Inspired by Healing From Migraines

One of the most powerful features of The Soulful Steep is the salt cave, and its origin is deeply personal. The owner shared that they used to suffer from migraines until they experienced a salt cave themselves. That experience changed everything.

They describe the benefits of salt therapy as nothing short of amazing. It supports respiratory health, helps with inflammation, and offers physical relief. But for them, the most meaningful impact is what happens emotionally.

The owner spoke about how moving it is to watch people completely disconnect. Phones go down. Social media fades out. Guests become grounded again in peace and love. For many, it is the first time in a long while they have truly slowed down.

A Menu Built With Care for Real People

Everything served at The Soulful Steep is guided by the same philosophy. Create offerings that support people as they are. The owner emphasized that the shop exists for beautiful humans to come and simply be, without judgment.

Organic teas, herbal blends, wellness elixirs, and mocktails are crafted with intention, not excess sugar or artificial shortcuts. The menu reflects care rather than restriction.

Notably, there is a strong selection of sugar-free and low-carb options. This is especially meaningful for guests managing conditions like diabetes. It is one of the reasons Choose954 co-founder Evan Snow connects so deeply with The Soulful Steep. He can enjoy the experience fully, knowing the menu supports his health rather than working against it.

Gluten-free, keto-friendly, vegan, and sugar-free baked goods round out the offerings. The owner made it clear that inclusion was essential. No one should feel like they do not belong because of dietary needs.

A Mini Bazaar That Extends the Soul of the Space

The Soulful Steep is more than a café. It is also a mini bazaar celebrating local creativity. When asked about this aspect, the owner explained that art and handmade goods are a natural extension of the space’s purpose.

Throughout the shop, guests will find rotating selections of local artwork, crystals, wellness items, and handmade goods. It encourages discovery and supports local makers in a meaningful way.

One of the featured artists is Edie Polly, a local favorite whose colorful, soulful work aligns beautifully with the ethos of The Soulful Steep. Her art adds joy and emotional resonance, reinforcing the idea that creativity itself is healing. You can explore her work at ediepollyart.com.

Music, Vinyl, and Intentional Atmosphere

Music plays a central role in shaping the energy of The Soulful Steep. The owner intentionally chose vinyl records over digital playlists to keep the experience grounded and tactile.

Vinyl invites people to listen differently. It slows things down. It creates warmth and encourages conversation rather than distraction.

Why People Feel Called Back

At its core, The Soulful Steep is about love, inclusion, and presence. The owner summed it up simply. Everything in the shop exists so people have a place to be themselves.

That energy is felt the moment you walk in and lingers long after you leave. In a time when true third spaces are disappearing, The Soulful Steep feels essential. It is a reminder that wellness, creativity, and community are deeply connected.