Newbies in the Cafe

Have you ever had the cafe dream? Would you like to leave your stressful career behind and be your own boss? Spend your days playing host, enjoying endless cups of coffee, and meeting new people, just like one big, happy coffee-loving family?

A surprising number of people, from all walks of life, aspire to own a cafe and live the dream. But what happens when they wake up and discover the reality?

In Newbies in the Cafe, Dr Judy Gregory, an academic-turned-cafe owner, examines the pros and cons of cafe ownership in Australia and shares the lessons she learned from her own experience. With 11 case studies from cafe newbies, and facts regarding business plans, financial targets, and promotional ideas, this book offers comprehensive, practical advice for anyone considering starting or buying a cafe.

Judy writes with positivity, despite the often challenging aspects of owning a cafe. Her balanced and honest approach allows readers to see all aspects of such a venture so they may tackle their own dream with their eyes wide open.

About the author

Dr Judy Gregory is a writer, editor, researcher, and former cafe dreamer. Newbies in the Cafe is the book she wishes she had read before embarking on her cafe dream.

Praise for Newbies in the Cafe

‘… a must for all to read BEFORE they enter the world of cafe ownership so that they will move into it with their eyes wide open.’ Phillip Di Bella, Di Bella Group

‘Reading this book is like having brutally honest conversations with 11 cafe owners. … Each story is so engaging; you feel you’re on the journey already – learning what working in a cafe is really like, empowered to make informed decisions about your own cafe.’ Christine Cottrell, Author of the Barista Bible and Trending Cafes Brisbane & Beyond

‘One of the greatest factors that affects success in this industry is support. This book not only provides this from examples of people in the industry today, but is extremely easy to digest, gives professional insight and guidance – for the newcomer right through to the elite.’ Joshua Clifton, Author of The Hospitality Survival Guide

‘Finally, a “warts and all” work to counter the fable that’s sold as … The Cafe Dream.’ Simon O’Brien, Kickstart Coffee Shop