What I Learnt on a Coffee Safari in New York City

Coffee, Connection and New York Magic

A little while ago, I came across a post on LinkedIn about a WhatsApp group for UK coffee founders. Naturally, I thought, this sounds like my kind of people. So I joined.

Before I knew it, I had signed up for a Coffee Safari in New York. Matt, the founder of Bewiched Coffee (they’re doing brilliant things with their ever-growing number of shops and drive-throughs, which are still a bit of a novelty here in the UK), had brought together a group of ten coffee shop owners to explore the city that never sleeps.

I didn’t know anyone going. I didn’t know what to expect. And, as it turned out, I was the only woman on the trip. That gave me a slight pause a few days before we left, but I told myself if I didn’t click with anyone, I’d just head off and do my own thing. Simple. As it happens, I didn’t need to. They were a brilliant bunch.

We visited around 20 coffee shops. From the theatrical and jaw-dropping Starbucks Reserve Roastery to tiny, beautifully curated cafés tucked away in Manhattan’s corners.

We drank, explored and shared ideas. We were also hosted by Roland from Watch House, who showed us around their New York space, soon to be followed by another opening in the Chrysler Building. The team were fantastic. We were treated to a bespoke coffee cupping session, chatted, ate and even had a few cocktails. It felt genuinely special.

One of my favourite parts of the trip was the unofficial 8am Coffee Club. A few of us would head out each morning to find a new spot before the others woke up. It became a bit of a ritual. On the one morning I didn’t make it, none of them went either, which made me laugh.

What stood out more than anything was the hospitality. Every single person we met, whether in a coffee shop, restaurant or bar, made us feel incredibly welcome. I know tipping plays a part in the US, but it felt deeper than that. There was real pride, passion and a love for service. It left a lasting impression, and it’s something I’ve been thinking about ever since.

There is something really special about walking into a coffee shop with other founders. You notice the same details, from layout and design to pricing, menu flow and how a croissant is plated. We spent hours bouncing ideas around, sharing thoughts and learning from each other. It was such a valuable experience, and I’ve come home with fresh energy and so many ideas.

More than anything, this trip was about connection. Real, honest, supportive connection. We talked about the ups and downs of running our businesses, scaling up, systems, staffing, challenges and future plans. I’ve made new friends for life, and we’re still chatting now. I’ve even been invited to visit some of their shops and headquarters, and I absolutely will.

BloomsYard has always been about more than just coffee. It’s about creating space for connection, community and moments that lift your day. This trip reminded me how powerful that is.

Sometimes, all you need to do is say "yes' to something that excites you and see where it takes you.

B. x