Humans of Union Square
Union Square thrives thanks to the people who bring it to life with their energy, spirit, and stories. From business owners to community members, our neighborhood is filled with incredible individuals who make it unique. Meet some of the humans of Union Square!
Know someone who should be featured? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us at info@unionsquarenyc.org.
Pizzazz
Zoran, affectionately known as Zoki, is the proud owner of Pizzazz, a new pizza spot in Union Square. Originally from Serbia, he moved to New York City in 2013 with a dream of carving out a place in the culinary world. For a decade, he perfected his skills working in kitchens across the city. About five years ago, he ventured into business ownership by opening a cozy coffee shop, Balancero, in Astoria. Now, after 25 years of making pizza, he’s achieved his dream of opening his own pizzeria.
The heart of Pizzazz is Zoki's team, a close-knit group of employees he has known for years and taught everything to —from the basics of dough to the art of crafting a perfect pie. Together, they run the operation with a mix of precision and warmth, embodying Zoki's philosophy of good service, good conversation, and good value. His standout feature is the striking yellow oven, reminiscent of New York’s iconic yellow cabs, an ode to the city he now calls home.
Union Square, with its vibrant energy and high foot traffic, is the perfect place for Pizzazz. The menu is intentionally short, focusing on quality over quantity. Zoki incorporates market-fresh ingredients into both his pizzas and sandwiches, elevating his offerings to restaurant quality while keeping them affordable and made-to-order in under five minutes. His personal favorite? The classic Margherita pizza, a simple yet delicious representation of his skill and dedication.
Opening Pizzazz has been a deeply personal journey for Zoki. Beyond family, his biggest motivation is the trust and belief his team and customers place in him. For him, making pizza isn’t just about feeding people; it’s about making them happy. His generosity and care for those who support him shine through in every interaction, leaving customers with not just a delicious meal but a memorable experience. Zoki says running Pizzazz isn’t easy, but it's still beautiful—proof that when passion meets purpose, the results are truly special.
17TH ST BY COLAKICKS
Alex made the jump from Charleston to the buzzing energy of New York City almost two years ago. She’s one of the three partners at 17th St by ColaKicks, a sneaker and designer consignment shop with eight locations. Her journey with them started small—she was just a part-time employee at their second store. But as time went on, she grew with the business, took on the role of head of social media, and became partner.
Moving to New York has been a transformative experience for Alex, who always dreamed of having a store in the city. She remembers the day they got the keys to 17th St; it was an emotional moment as she walked through Union Square, listening to someone play guitar. The beauty of the scene, paired with the realization of her achievement, made it a memory that stands out above all others. The city is a change of pace from the relaxed lifestyle of Charleston, but she appreciates how New York keeps her constantly moving and adapting.
Alex has always been into sneakers and designer brands—growing up, she played basketball, and she remembers admiring her mom’s classic Chanel bag. That sense of luxury felt out of reach back then, but with 17th St by ColaKicks, she’s making designer pieces accessible to all kinds of people. The store is about more than just buying and selling; it’s a community where everyone can find something that speaks to them, whatever their budget. She values vintage for the stories behind each piece, believing they make them that much more special.
Without any formal business background, Alex took a leap of faith when she joined as a partner. Originally, she thought she’d work in criminal psychology, but life’s twists led her to where she is today. Her passion for people and creating a welcoming space shines through, especially in the way she supports her employees, all of whom speak highly of her kindness and generosity. Dogs, cats—even her own cat Moose—are welcome in the store, with treats on hand for furry visitors. For Alex, this journey is about more than just running a business; it’s a way of building something she genuinely loves, connecting with people, and having fun along the way.
ADONIS BARBERSHOP
Allan, originally from Venezuela, is the heart and hands behind Adonis Barbershop in Union Square. Since immigrating in 2007, he has worked tirelessly to make his mark in the city, offering expert cuts with a personal touch. With 14 years of experience in the industry, Allan has become a familiar face to locals and a trusted barber to clients who have been coming to him for over a decade. Alongside his two uncles, he’s built Adonis Barbershop into a family-run business that’s dedicated not only to haircuts but to creating an unforgettable experience for every customer.
Owning a barbershop was always one of Allan’s dreams. Today, Adonis Barbershop is a space where his vision has come to life in Union Square, blending expert barbering skills with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Loyal clients, some of whom have been with him since the early days, trust his skill and enjoy his easygoing, welcoming personality. Looking to the future, he plans to expand Adonis Barbershop even further, aiming to make it one of the most recognized names in New York’s barbershop scene. Keep an eye out for their signature merch and, above all, expect the best cuts and conversation in town.
FORBIDDEN PLANET
For over 7 and a half years, Kelvin has been more than just a manager at Forbidden Planet; he's become a part of its very fabric. To him, this place isn’t just a store—it’s a community where culture, creativity, and authenticity thrive, keeping the spirit of this legendary shop alive. That’s his real job: fostering a welcoming atmosphere that encourages self-expression.
People who walk through the doors don’t just come to shop—they come to share a connection. Over the years, Kelvin has become a familiar and beloved face, with customers stopping by just to say hi, drop off gifts, or bask in the positive energy he spreads. It's a testament to the love he shows, knowing that when you give love, it comes back tenfold.
Being a Bronx native, Kelvin holds onto the essence of New York that so many people feel is slipping away. Forbidden Planet, a cornerstone since 1982, remains one of the few spots left in the city that still feels like the New York of old—gritty, real, and authentic. More than just a store, it’s a sanctuary of culture and fun, a place where you can embrace your weird side and feel fully accepted. For Kelvin, that’s what it’s all about: keeping the culture alive and showing the world that this special place will always welcome them with open arms.
JO’S TACO
Juana proudly owns Jo's Taco, a family-run restaurant she operates with her husband, Pablo. Originally from a small town in Guerrero, they've called this place home for 17 years. The restaurant's name was inspired by their daughter, Johanna, and represents a dream come true for the family.
While running a small business has its challenges, Juana and Pablo pour their hearts into crafting authentic Mexican dishes, just like they did back home. Every day, they carefully select fresh ingredients and take pride in offering personalized attention to each customer. Though their business may be small, the warmth and love are felt the moment you step inside.
As they celebrated their 2-year anniversary in November 2024, their food attracts a mix of tourists, students, and locals alike. Juana's favorite dish, Al Pastor Tacos, is always a hit, and she’s grateful for the community’s support. Stop by today and try these flavorful and delicious dishes!
BLUE DOVE COFFEE
Amadeo, founder of Blue Dove Coffee, has made his mark in Union Square, where his coffee cart has become a bustling hub of energy in one of his favorite parts of New York City. Every day, he wakes up at 2:30 AM, starting his work from 6 AM to 5 PM, serving up espresso and coffee with the same passion that fueled his journey. Despite having no prior experience in the coffee industry, Amadeo built his business from the ground up.
His journey began in Michigan, where he and his brother built a coffee cart from scratch, handling everything from welding to electrical work. They drove it all the way to New York, taking a leap of faith. His time in the military—four years of active duty followed by four years in the reserves—instilled in him a relentless work ethic that made long hours feel natural. Coupled with his deep connection to his Italian roots and love for espresso, Amadeo saw his move to New York as the perfect opportunity to take a risk, initially diving into commercial real estate before turning his focus to coffee.
Today, with a growing social media presence—over 2 million views and thousands of interactions per post—Amadeo is setting his sights beyond his cart, envisioning the expansion of Blue Dove Coffee to 100 locations. His success is driven by a passion to build something bigger than himself, far beyond just a coffee cart.
GAIL FOX
Gail Fox is a cherished and active member of the Union Square community. Whether she’s enjoying a stroll through the park, sharing laughter with friends over lunch at the bistro tables, or participating in the district’s various programs, Gail’s familiar presence brings warmth to the neighborhood. To her, Union Square is not just a place—it’s a living history. She often speaks with admiration about the four preservationists who are memorialized in the park.
These preservationists have shaped Union Square’s legacy in profound ways. Norman’s Bench, created for the founder of the BID, Norman Buchbinder, offers a peaceful spot amidst vibrant summer blooms. Evelyn Strouse was a community leader and founder of USCC - note the playground sign, "Evelyn's Playground - and Debra Bernhardt advocated for Union Square to be named a national historical landmark. Oliver Johnston, a pivotal figure in the 1980 renovation, played a key role in the AIDs movement, remembered for the red ribbon and "Silence Equals Death" campaign. Oliver was also co-chair of USCC with Evelyn, affectionately referred to as Evelyn's rock.
Their contributions are honored with simple signs across the park, reminding visitors of the history that lives on here. From elegant fundraisers to community carnivals, their work continues to inspire, making Union Square truly a "great and magical destination."
ROBYN HATCHER
Robyn Hatcher is a professional speaker, consultant, and coach whose life has been rooted in Union Square for over three decades. As a passionate advocate for communication, Robyn has dedicated her career to helping people detoxify the drama in their lives and workplaces. With a background in acting and writing for daytime soap operas like All My Children and One Life to Live, Robyn was once in the business of creating drama. Now, however, her mission has shifted to reducing drama and inspiring impactful communication in the workplace.
As an active part of the Union Square community, including her time on Community Board 5, Robyn has fond memories of the neighborhood, particularly when her son was young. She recalls him and his friend, with their little toy chairs, eagerly watching the NIBBL League games—an in-line skating basketball league that used to play in the square. These memories make Union Square more than just a place to live; it’s a place full of nostalgia and connection for her.
Today, Robyn still finds grounding in Union Square’s vibrant energy. The Greenmarket is a regular stop, especially for her favorite gluten-free bread, and the center lawn seating remains one of her go-to spots. She even brings her new puppy to the dog park, adding to her daily routine in the neighborhood.
When advising others hoping to make an impact as public speakers, Robyn emphasizes the importance of purpose over popularity. She encourages aspiring speakers to look beyond fame and focus on the real impact they can make. For her, communication is more than just a skill—it’s a way to help people improve their lives, navigate challenges, and build better relationships.