Opening a cafe is exhilarating and exciting and if done well can be the most rewarding business for anyone who loves people (see my other articles on being a people person). Sales is what it's all about and sales come about by being proactive and friendly while offering a quality range of products.

In the case of a Cafe Coffee shop your products are food and drink and your environment where they enjoy your products.

The qualities YOU need to have in the culture of your business to succeed are:

An open mind to sell at all times: Your mindset is your best asset. Do not be afraid to sell and by that I mean be friendly helpful and interested in your customers and don't be shy at asking for the business. This is sales. Do whatever you can to find out about your customers needs and wants. This is sales. Never be afraid to ask for your customers input you will be well rewarded and often surprised. This is sales. Upsell in a helpful friendly and non intrusive manner. Practice, practice, practice.

Example of a 7 course menu

1st Course Amuse Bouche

Mandarin Oranges with Salmon Mousse Quennelles a tasty and colorful amuse bouche to begin a dinner and Fresh Shrimp served on ice with Cocktail sauce an easy beautiful tasty crowd pleasing shrimp cocktail appetizer

2nd Course Seafood Appetizer

Smoked Trout Pate served with Champagne Granita smoked trout on baguette slices served with champagne poured over granita a beautiful tasting appetizer and looks fantastic!

3rd Course Salad

Mesclun Salad Greens with Lemon Vinaigrette presented uniquely inside fresh Asparagus arranged like "Lincoln Logs"

4th Course Gourmet Soup

Shrimp Bisque Flambe a beautifully tasting soup in a fantastic broth, it is outstanding!

5th Course Sorbet

Pink Grapefruit Sorbet served on a plate of ice for a unique presentation

6th Course Main Entree

Main Entree

Trout filled with Salmon Mousse in Puff Pastry a beautiful entree and easy to make

Little Gaufrette Potato Baskets filled with small Carrot Balls

Potato cut with a cookie cutter and topped with a Zucchini Flower Garnish

7th Course Gourmet Dessert

Ice Cream Wrapped in a Tuille plate decorated with cocoa powder for a special presentation