Danika enjoys a warm welcome
A new business offering coffee to go has been warmly welcomed by the Clarence Gardens community.
Danika Neylon opened Coffee Says So at 40 Winston Avenue in March and says she’s been overwhelmed by the support from locals.
The café is Danika’s first business venture but she’s no stranger to making coffee, learning the ropes at her high school coffee cart, then teaching other students and working as a barista at Christies Beach for a few years.
She’s following in the footsteps of her mum Vicki, who owns Studio 40 Hair next door and has a background in hospitality.
“The space became available next door, and I thought I would like to run my own business,” Danika says. “It’s a small space and it’s perfect for me.”
Vicki works alongside Danika, helping with cleaning, ordering stock and invoicing and lending a hand at the coffee machine. Danika’s Dad David and sister Mackenzie are also stepping in to help out on weekends.
“I thought it was a great opportunity for Danika to learn about small business and I’ll start teaching her those skills as we go,” she says. “We’ve had so much community support – people have told us they are really happy that we’re here.”
Danika also enjoys a strong trade from commuters and workers who stop in for takeaway toasties.
“We have decided to extend our opening hours during the week to cater for people looking for coffee at the after-school pick-up, on the way to sports or a late afternoon catch up with friends.”
The menu includes a range of coffees from South Australian roaster Kicco, matcha, shakes, smoothies, pastries from Canelle French Pastries at Torrensville and an expanding range of gluten-free options. The café offers dog biscuits and a water bowl for furry companions.
Coffee Says So uses compostable and recyclable packaging in all its products.
The café is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 8am to 5pm and Saturdays 8am to 2pm.