Ever wondered about turning your home into a cozy coffee hub? Meet Liang and Jan, the duo behind Sunbrew, a home coffee shop that beautifully blends the art of crafting coffee with fostering a warm community.
In this interview, they share insights into their journey, offering a glimpse of how they’ve turned strangers into friends over a cup of coffee under their roof.
Home coffee shop in Damansara Uptown, PJ
Can you tell us how long it takes from idea to first customer?
From ideation in 2022 to our first customer’s arrival, our cafe journey unfolded gradually. Living in this space, we sensed the potential to share its warmth with more than just our close friends who dropped by for coffee. After contemplation, we took the plunge in August 2023. EatDrinkKl, a prominent food blogger, was our first customer on our soft launch day. Since then, a stream of regulars seeking intimacy and good conversation have graced our doors. We talk about everything from coffee to life, forming a community that appreciates the simple joys.
Your café provides a welcoming atmosphere for people to hang out. Are there any specific café rules?
Our cafe is an extension of our home, open from 9 AM to 4 PM. While not officially pet-friendly, our three cats add a touch of charm. Visitors are welcome to stay as long as they want within our business hours, with a simple requirement of one drink per person.
Do people have to reserve a spot?
No reservations are necessary. Just walk in.
What are some tips for starting a home-based café? What were the difficulties in launching this business?
For those contemplating a home cafe venture, our advice is clear: if it’s for quick cash, think twice. But if it’s about passion and connecting with like-minded folks, give it a shot.
The main challenge? Time commitment. Juggling this weekend project with full-time jobs can be tiresome, but the joy of our regulars keeps us going.
Opening and closing aren’t arbitrary; they’re a commitment to our community, ensuring our cafe remains a haven for those who value more than just a cup of coffee.
P.S. If you want to read about shoe shop turned into cafe, check out our article.
