Luso Food and Wine greets customers with a celebratory atmosphere before they even step inside. This atmosphere arises, in part, from owner Fatima Sousa Hemmons' enthusiasm for her products. Inspired by a family tree with roots in the former Portuguese province of Goa. Hemmons keeps her quaint shop and wine bar stocked with Portuguese imports and Spanish wines. Bottled wines, including white port and madeira, share shelf-space with a menagerie of cured meats and desserts. At the same time, the shop also supports local local coffee retailers Caffe Umbria and Delta Coffee.

Seattle Weekly has praised Hemmons' efforts, saying "...the double-duty shop is bringing new character to the 'hood and new life to the community, promoting Portuguese food culture right along with regional products." This culture bridges the gap between Portugal and it's colonies with events that include wine tastings, live music, and cooking workshops.