A Latte with Heart: Loretta’s Celebrates Women’s History Month with the “Steel Magnolia”

As March blooms in Philadelphia, Loretta’s—the beloved woman-owned café and bakery—is blending floral inspiration with a powerful mission. In honor of Women’s History Month and the upcoming Philadelphia Flower Show, the bakery is launching a specialty beverage that tastes like spring and supports local gender equity.

The Sip of the Season: The Steel Magnolia

Starting March 1 through March 31, guests can order the Steel Magnolia ($9). This isn’t your average coffee; it’s a sophisticated, tea-forward creation designed to mirror the elegance of a garden in bloom.

The flavor profile includes:

• Base: Iced lavender Earl Grey latte.
• Topping: A rich, salted honey whip.
• Garnish: Delicate dried flowers.

Sips for a Systemic Shift

Loretta’s is putting its money where its mission is. For every Steel Magnolia sold during the month of March, $1 will be donated to Women’s Way.

About Women’s Way: This nonprofit is a powerhouse in the region, dedicated to achieving gender equity by driving systemic change and uplifting women and girls through advocacy and grant-making.

A Legacy of “Steel Magnolias”

Loretta’s is more than just a place for high-end Viennoiserie; it is a living tribute to the women who shaped owner Kelsey Bush.

Named after her grandmother, the café’s concept and vibrant design pay homage to the “Steel Magnolias” of the hospitality world—women who are as resilient as they are refined. This family-first approach permeates every corner of the business:

• The Recipes: Several viral menu items, like the Hummingbird Latte, are inspired by her grandmother’s original recipes (in this case, her famous Hummingbird Cake).
• The Merch: Kelsey’s mother adds a sustainable, personal touch to the brand by thrifting and hand-embroidering the Loretta’s logo onto secondhand denim and button-down shirts, creating one-of-a-kind wearable art.

Quick Guide to Loretta’s Women’s History Month Special