In a groundbreaking move, a new coffee shop in Sacramento, California, is redefining the coffee experience by merging the aromatic world of Vietnamese coffee with the sophisticated allure of classic automobiles. Chloé Cà Phê + Roastery, a brainchild of dedicated entrepreneurs, aims to cultivate a refined appreciation for the diverse and evolving landscape of Vietnamese coffees, often showcasing luxurious vintage cars within its vibrant space. This innovative establishment not only presents unique coffee selections but also champions the advancements in Vietnamese coffee production, signaling a new era for these distinct flavors on the global stage.
A Deep Dive into Sacramento's New Coffee Sensation
Chloé Cà Phê + Roastery, nestled in the bustling Midtown area of Sacramento, inaugurated its doors in March, a culmination of a journey that began with a mobile Vietnamese dumpling truck. Founders Charley Phung and Crystal Huynh-Kim, a husband-and-wife team, named their coffee venture after their beloved daughter, Chloé, signifying a personal and profound commitment to their cultural heritage and future. The café's menu is a testament to this dedication, offering classic espresso beverages alongside inventive concoctions such as the Shaken Phở Americano, a unique blend of espresso infused with house-made syrup featuring notes of charred cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise.
Beyond the innovative drink offerings, Chloé Cà Phê prides itself on introducing less common coffee varietals, including fine Robusta, THA1, and Liberica. The shop actively promotes the progressive agricultural and post-harvest methods adopted by a new generation of Vietnamese coffee growers. Charley Phung emphasizes that their partnerships extend to multi-generational family farms in Vietnam, where younger generations, returning from international universities, are implementing contemporary cultivation and processing techniques to enhance coffee quality. This commitment to direct sourcing is facilitated by Phung's extensive network within the logistics sector, honed during his career in the automotive industry, notably with Porsche Vietnam.
The physical space of Chloé Cà Phê is thoughtfully designed to echo the lush coffee-growing regions of Vietnam, featuring abundant potted plants and traditional Vietnamese nón lá-inspired pendant lamps. The café's setup is remarkably efficient, equipped with a 22-foot mobile quartz bar featuring a high-end La Marzocco KB90 espresso machine, complemented by unexpectedly humble IKEA lighting. This blend of luxury and practicality reflects Phung's philosophy, influenced by his past in high-budget marketing for Porsche, now applied with mindful spending in his own enterprise. The mobile bar, with its innovative water filtration system, streamlined the build-out and permitting processes, demonstrating a model for aspiring coffee entrepreneurs.
Behind the inviting 2,800-square-foot café lies an 800-square-foot area dedicated to green coffee storage, complete with a Roest sample roaster and a cupping station. For larger production, Phung routinely travels to Bay Area CoRoasters in Berkeley to utilize their Loring machines. Chloé Cà Phê not only imports green coffees directly but also supplies them to other roasters, further embedding itself within the broader coffee community. Looking ahead, Phung envisions opening a larger roastery within the next five years, driven by a powerful ambition: to showcase the modern sophistication and unparalleled quality of Vietnamese coffee to the world, proving that a humble origin can lead to global recognition.
A Glimpse into the Future of Coffee Culture
The narrative of Chloé Cà Phê is more than just a business endeavor; it's a profound statement on cultural pride and entrepreneurial spirit. From a journalist's perspective, this establishment embodies a compelling blend of tradition and innovation. It challenges preconceived notions about Vietnamese coffee, elevating it to a status comparable to fine wines or high-performance vehicles, thereby diversifying the specialty coffee landscape. The emphasis on direct relationships with farmers and the integration of modern agricultural practices highlight a responsible and forward-thinking approach to sourcing. Moreover, the personal journey of Charley Phung and Crystal Huynh-Kim, rooted in their desire to build a legacy for their daughter while honoring their heritage, adds a deeply human element to their business. Chloé Cà Phê serves as an inspiring example of how passion, cultural roots, and strategic vision can converge to create a truly unique and impactful brand, paving the way for wider appreciation of underrepresented coffee origins and fostering a more inclusive global coffee community.