healthy eating that satisfies the taste buds in a warm and relaxing environment; that is what Narvini Dewnath’s Coffee Bean delivers. The stylish 31-year-old said she set up the eatery to “offer customers a space to relax, meet or work – ideally your home away from home”.
She explained that in 2010, she and her family looked at the environment and evaluated it to see what they could offer that was different and necessary all at the same time. “The idea of the Coffee Bean arose and we found ways to create a concept that would be appreciated,” she revealed.
“We started out with coffee being the main focus, but then we strategically focused on food. We noticed gaps in the food industry and tried to provide items that foodies would enjoy, so our breakfast all day has always been a hit. For all the health-conscious eaters, salad varieties were lacking, so we tried to ensure we can provide fresh and healthy grilled meat salads. In addition to that, we offer a variety of wraps, sandwiches, desserts and an assortment of milkshakes, smoothies, Italian sodas and fresh juices. All of our items are prepared fresh daily and to order, so while you may have to wait a few minutes you are guaranteed fresh items every time.”
“At the Coffee Bean we take great pride in our products. Our philosophy is quality above quantity and for that reason our chefs use the finest ingredients to prepare each meal,” the company’s website thecoffeebeangy.com noted.
The infectious good cheer of Dewnath, who says happy and smiling customers are her idea of success, helps to create the welcoming atmosphere the business strives. Musing on the lessons she has learnt so far, the young entrepreneur said: “A business is like a roller coaster: many highs and many, many lows, but once you’re on that ride, you can’t exit halfway. You have to be patient and passionately determined to work hard at any given moment. Having a strong support team to encourage, support and motivate ensures success and being open to criticism and advice is also crucial.”
Dewnath, who gets up early to open the business for 07:00h and then works into the night, stressed, however, that the most important trait of an entrepreneur is being tenacious. “Every day is a different day and brings with it new possibilities and new challenges, being able to live with the uncertainty is one quality that builds character and adds to strength.”
In these trying times for business, such traits are even more important. The foodie noted that the “Coffee Bean has been in existence for six years and we always hope that we can last a long time, but it’s a fragile time for us (Georgetown businesses), having dealt with the blow from the parking meters which had directly affected us. Knowing that the threat looms is definitely ominous.”
But Dewnath continues to persist. She says her biggest influence is her parents. “My mom and I run the business together, so we share responsibilities, but in addition to running a business, she takes care of the entire family,” she added. “I’ve admired how my parents have worked hard all their lives and the way they have encouraged and motivated not only their children but everyone around them. They inspire me every day.”
She warned would-be entrepreneurs that there were no shortcuts in business especially when it comes to food. “Pay attention to every detail because one little mishap can cost you greatly. Be patient, don’t give up and don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
Contact: 133 Church Street, Georgetown; 223-2222; [email protected]; [email protected]; facebook.com/coffeebean.
