In a low-key plaza on Alondra Boulevard in Norwalk, a pathway of LED lights in red, white, and green leads you to a new concept. It sits in the middle of a small shopping center that has fought off encroaching gentrification and is still cherished by locals for its boba shop, donuts in pink cardboard boxes, and corner liquor store.
Newly opened, Cafe Palestina welcomes you inside, its register and espresso machines wrapped in keffiyeh print, the black-and-white pattern that has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Palestinian identity in the world.
The bases of every table have the same print, while imagery of Palestinian landmarks covers the tabletops and the walls carry Palestine map art. Depending on where you sit, the words "Free Palestine" stare back at you.