Koolah Cafe is bringing a taste of Australia to the Outer Richmond. With Aussie fare and hospitality, check out Koolah Cafe for your next morning cup or lunchtime sandwich. We chatted with owner Brendan Dobbin about the joys (and challenges) of opening a cafe.
What is unique about Koolah Cafe?
“Our Australian influence, inspiration, and namesake. ‘Koolah’ is one of the many Aboriginal words for Koala, Australia’s cutest and most iconic native animal. With Australia’s coffee culture being the driving force behind my cafe, and in honor of my Aussie wife, I wanted to give a nod to her island home in the cafe’s namesake.”
Why did you decide to open a cafe?
“Koolah Cafe has been a dream of mine since traveling to Australia to meet my future in-laws. The coffee culture Down Under had a lasting impression on me. Laid-back vibes, engaging banter with baristas and owners, and the incredible quality and pride taken with each cup of coffee had me inspired. After 20+ years of working long hours in hospitality, COVID layoffs, and becoming a Dad, I wanted to create my own little cafe – a neighborhood sanctuary that could capture the good vibes that I experienced relaxing in coffee shops in Australia – some of my most fondest memories. Koolah Cafe was born. It’s a dream come true!”
What about the most crave-worthy items at Koolah Cafe?
“Our Flat Whites & Lattes are house faves, but our ‘Cold Toddy’ has a major kick. Our ‘Outer Richmond Hoagie’ for the meat lovers and ‘Karl’s Hoagie’ for the green lovers are not to be missed. And if your game, we even have Vegemite on toast.”
Why did you choose Ritual as your roasting partner?
“The incredible coffee quality speaks for itself, but the support and advice I received from April and the team at Ritual was above and beyond. From initial walk though of my space, to fit out consultation, to equipment procurement, to technical support and staff training, the service is above and beyond. I could not have opened my coffee shop without the support Ritual’s value added services beyond supplying beans. “
What would you say is your favorite part of owning your own business?
“Building a relationship with our customers, enhancing the neighborhood, and having my own space where I can be authentically me and sing all day.”
What’s the most surprising task you do at your business?
“I shut the shop to go and pick up my kids. Once they’re asleep, I go back to the shop to mop the floors.”
What’s your coffee drink of choice?
“Americano. I have three children under four, so the flavor and caffeine needs to hit hard and fast.”
Is there a cup of coffee that has changed your life?
“Iced coffee from the Hark Coffee Roasters in Adelaide, South Australia.”
What’s your favorite gadget or piece of equipment at Koolah?
“Our sexy Synesso espresso machine, the crown jewel of our coffee bar. She’s worth way more than my car.”
And what’s the café music like?
“I have the dopest playlist of 400 tracks – an eclectic mix of Hip Hop, R&B, Pop, and some Aussie classics. Check out my playlist on Spotify!”
Is there another small business you’d like to give a shout-out to?
“Our friends at Marisal Sea Salt, Donuts & Things, Pickles Hyperbole, The Parlour Print Co., and Rebecca Hopkins Photography.“
The Outer Richmond is full of tasty restaurants and cute shops – and it’s a short walk to Land’s End and Golden Gate Park. Stop by next time you want to turn an alright day into a g’day!
Koolah Cafe is open 8-5 every day at 6909 Geary Blvd in San Francisco, CA.
Check out the menu or order ahead here!
