What would make a superb coffee shop/cafe?!
What would make a superb coffee shop/cafe?
I'm looking into the possibility of starting my own coffee shop/cafe. There are a lot of choices to make in deciding the look, feel, and taste of the cafe. Below, I've listed some possible elements of a coffee house. I would welcome any advice and suggestions; what would you look for in a coffee house experience. Also, what are the guidelines to using different brands of coffee that are available in the market, and do you have any suggestions on how to make the coffee house experience unique if using market brand coffee? Thank you.
1. Exotic coffee
2. A coffee house theme (tropical, Christian bookstore, etc.)
3. Serving other beverages (tea, smoothies, etc.)
P.S. please be creative and give me some unique ideas.
Answers:
Hi,
I have been thinking that somewhere that did the usual coffee/tea/chocolate and loads of good milkshakes could do pretty good business.
Where I studied there was a place called Shake-aways that did hot and cold drinks but specialised in making amazing milkshakes, there were always huge queues it was very popular - probably partly because of the large youth audience with 2 universities in town, so consider that with your business.
I always wished it had a proper seating area as it only really did takeaway. If it had some seats and did milkshakes and maybe some treats like waffles and pancakes, it could have had a market that no one else catered for.
They did about 100 flavours, it was amazing, they had loyalty cards that meant if you got 6 stamps you got a free milkshake.
That would be my business venture. Also if I was running this place I would have pinball tables and make it cute and retro, but that's just a personal preference!
Exotic coffee and other drinks are good ideas. I like coffee shops that have seating areas with comfy chairs and sofas (and small side tables for the coffee). Outdoor seating is good too. Provide snack, breakfast and dessert foods (premade pastries, sandwiches, small salads etc) to boost sales. Have magazines available. Wireless internet connectivity would be good too. One local coffee shop features artwork from local artists. The artist has a place to exhibit and sell art; you get a commission and an ever changing environment. I'm not that into themes in my coffee shops, just pleasant surroundings and good coffee. Good luck to you!
Why not do a Zen/ Buddhist theme? Nice calming music. Lots of plants, natural earth colors in the decor, couches for people to sit and relax. All natural drinks from water to coffee to tea and juices. Fresh fruit with cream, good pastries, small light finger sandwiches, vegan snacks. Have it wi-fi assessable. Perhaps a wall of books (some older and out of print) for the patrons to read.
I don't know of any guidelines to the different brands, but if you offer good coffee with natural ingredients to add in, then you are all set.
1 location
2 quality of beans
3 price
Don't forget to smile!
Maybe try combining all three of your ideas they sound great! ? =o)