Books

Idiot's Guide to Starting a Coffee Bar

Author: Linda Formichelli

To the point. This book is a solid starting point, but was not "Complete" by any means. I was hoping this book would delve into specifics, such as how to go about obtaining contractors to have a coffee bar built, or give real life statistical examples of day-to-day coffee bar operations. While understanding the author cannot possibly account for everything one would experience as a coffee bar owner, it would have been nice to get a broader picture. Initially this book was designed for entrepreneurs to brew up their own business, and it does address important issues. Topics to think about include payroll, hiring tips, color schemes, atmosphere, etc. but they're just starting points. It will be necessary to purchase additional research materials to build from this one.

Back when this book hit the market it might have been a unicorn among resources for people wanting to start their own coffee business. And yes, I am quite aware it was written in 2005. Although it has sections that might come off outdated, it does include the dirt on what it’s really like to work behind the counter. Also included, is information on how to build a business plan, through how to make the drinks and how to price menu items. Currently, it’s not by far, the only series book of its kind. But they are right that the specialty coffee business is still growing for small businesses. So it’s always important to get multiple perspectives for the coffee industry anyhow.

You may be asking why I even spent time to review this book. Well let me tell you. First, it was recommended by a business professor who raved about it being a down-to-earth start on the subject. And second, I wanted to walk away knowing I searched for the full reason for having it published.

From my overall perspective, the assessment from this book comes from an introduction to the subject. As a positive, it may be at your local library or can be found very cheap online. Most prominently, there is value in the content coming from Susan Gilbert, who has started five of her own coffee bar businesses. This is a beginning step-by-step guide to realizing, what for many people, is a cherished dream: opening a successful coffee bar.