Owners: Wilson and Olya Jones
Business: The CoffeeShop
Address: 3139 Mission St.
Type: Cafes
Product: Handcrafted coffee and baked goods
What gave you your idea to start your business?
Starting off as a father, I thought about the various jobs I had growing up until now. I thought about my favorite job and made a business out of it with the help of my wife, Olya. I had worked at various coffeeshops since I was 15-16 years old, but wanted to make the best coffee for a fair price.
What has your experience been opening a business in the Mission?
Amazing! I admire such a beautiful culture in a small space. I came from Austin, Texas, from a mostly Latino neighborhood, so I feel right at home in the Mission. I believe we’re all learning and combining cultures and strengths. The Mission is a melting pot – an important part of what makes San Francisco the ideal American city.
How does your business/ business idea relate to your life?
I am a meditator and believe in doing good for the community. But I also enjoy down time, so I need a comfortable environment where I’m able to work with my family — my wife, and kids helping grandmother bake goods. I want to help people start off on the right foot in the morning — to make people’s day great.
Why should potential customers invest in small businesses?
Small business is better! Quality is in the staff and owner’s heart. Usually big companies don’t have the customer’s interest, health or well-being in mind. My goal is to enlighten people’s mind and body, not to extract as much money as possible.
Where do you see your business in five years?
I have been in business for six years, and I don’t want to lose money, but I do want to make enough to see the next day. So, I have humble aspirations of owning three nice coffeeshops in the Mission, continuing to roast my own coffee beans and making everything from hand, all while raising my kids and enjoying the community. I want to make the best coffee for the best city, and do so by going around the world on coffee explorations with Olya.
What do you love about the Mission?
It’s always interesting in the Mission — it’s boring when things are the same. I love that the Mission fights to preserve culture and the community is focused on protecting the past while bringing the neighborhood into the future.
