A Salem-based UX researcher is planning a new cafe for the community.
Ashley Ngo has recently been advertising her new business Uji Cafe on social media. This will be a space serving matcha and hojicha drinks. Ngo said right now, she is using community fundraising to help support the business, and there is not yet an established address.
“A calm corner where Japanese heritage and modern design meet over a warm drink,” says the description on Uji Cafe’s website.
The business is set to be a quiet space to work and converse with friends. The name came from the Japanese city called Uji, where matcha is largely grown and processed. A preview menu is already available, which includes the Strawberry Cloud matcha drink, as well as Classic Hojicha Latte and Lavender Roast coffees.
Once Ngo is able to secure enough funding for the project, she will be able to begin the process of finding an official address. Ngo has been traveling around the country to find matcha shops as inspiration for her own cafe. The new business venture was first announced in July.
“My goal is to grow gradually and intentionally, making sure each step builds real connection and excitement before moving to the next phase,” Ngo told What Now Portland.
More information on Uji Cafe can be found on their Instagram page @uji_cafe.
