Coffee shops that are not about coffee nor about the food.

by chee Leng (on coffee makers)
(Singapore)

Most of us would go to a coffee shop because of its superb coffee, or perhaps we would check out a cafe because of its famed delicious cakes.

But, there are cafes, coffee shops that are opened with a purpose that simply moves you.

Joan Bowen a cafe in Singapore exists to equip a skill set for people with special needs.

Professor Brawn, was set up so that kids with Autism can learn how to serve and grow socially.

For both outlets, their food is good, their drinks are on par with other F&B outlets, but it is their drive and passion to assist a segment of society that has often been sidelined that is their smash hit product.

The purpose behind the opening of these cafes is the reason why I feel people should check out and support them.

I have seen donations and and various forms of assistance given to the less privilege groups, but seldom do I see a company, a shop started just for them.

There is no fall back plan, these F&B outlets are started for the people with these special needs. And these folks are the ones that need to make it work!

And for it to work, the support has to come from you and me.

While, it is good to help them financially, I think if we can help them build up their confidence and give them an opportunity to strengthen a skill set, it would even be better.

These are some of the unique cafes that are featured in the Unique Cafes in Singapore guide book. Uncovering coffee shops and cafes that would have otherwise being sidelined and missed by most people.

When so much is being invested into a cafe, isn't it a waste that it would be missed?

It is not about the coffee, nor about the food, but about the theme, that story behind that shop that matters.