In a city often characterized as full of faceless, nameless bureaucrats, it’s great to note that two entrepreneurs with strong local connections are receiving praise for their innovative approaches to business.

A DCist tipster informed us that Warren Brown, owner of CakeLove and the Love Café, has been named by Inc Magazine as one of its 26 Most Fascinating Entrepreneurs. Brown is part of an illustrious list that includes Martha Stewart, Richard Branson, and Craig Newmark of Craigslist fame.

Brown was named to the list for his gutsy decision to leave a secure job as a lawyer to found CakeLove in 2000. The business venture was so successful that Love Café, a sister venture that provides cake, sandwiches, and free wi-fi, was founded across the street in 2002. According to the profile, Brown is now planning on opening CakeLove locations in suburban D.C., good news for those not willing to drive to U Street (oddly described as “rapidly gentrifying” by Inc — didn’t that happen three years ago?). This DCist is admittedly not much of a cake fan, but we’ve heard that Brown’s creations are worth the accolades.

In addition to Brown, the Kimpton Hotel & Restaurant Group’s Tom LaTour also made the list. The local connection? Outside of San Francisco, their headquarters, the Kimpton Group’s largest metropolitan foothold is in the District. They own Hotel George, Hotel Helix, Hotel Madera, Hotel Monaco, Hotel Rouge, and the Topaz Hotel. Home to the some of the best restaurants in D.C., as well as funky, upscale lounges, LaTour’s properties have made a big impact on the stuffy image this city often suffers from.