With all the buzz of new restaurants and bars opening in the burroughs of Downtown, Midtown and Corktown Detroit, it may be easy to overlook tried and true establishments that invested in Detroit, before investing in Detroit was “cool”. This month’s Break For Five highlights said business, Motor City Java & Tea House a neighborhood coffee shop and it’s co-owners Alicia George, Tonya Murphy and Maegan Murphy.
Michigan Chronicle: What made you decide to open a coffee-house in Detroit?
Motor City Java & Tea House: 15 years ago, I had a dream of owning a coffee shop. I opened in 2010. In 2013 I partnered with Tonya and Maegan the business has elevated. It has been a great blessing.
MC: What makes Motor City Java & Tea House different from major coffee chains, i.e. Starbucks?
MCJTH: It’s different because of its community spirit. When you come to Motor City Java & Tea House it’s more than coffee it’s a destination place, where the world meets. We are socially responsible, we support local block clubs, community organizations, summer youth projects, and the art community.
MC: Why open in Detroit and not the suburbs?
MCJTH: Why Detroit? Why not? We want the people from our community especially the youth to have an experience. A place that they can feel like it’s a safe haven all while providing healthy food. We don’t want to be known as an area that is a food dessert. Healthy food , Healthy mind, healthy community.
MC: What’s your biggest struggle as an entrepreneur?
MCJH: The biggest struggle was finances, raising the dollars necessary to renovate the space. Having enough capital to maintain the operation. Sacrificing everything this is where faith come in, it was God’s will. In the end without struggle there is no success.
MC: What advice can you give someone entering your field or own their own business?
MCJTH: The advice we have given and continue to give is that we feel that coffee shops are the new creative community centers in Detroit. Do the research, become threaded in the community where you want to open. Give back. Have passion for your business and Never give up!!
Be sure to support Detroit businesses, stop by Motor City Java & Tea House today!
Address: 17336 Lahser Rd, Detroit, MI 48219
Phone:(313) 766-7578
Hours:
Monday CLOSED
Tuesday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Wednesday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Thursday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Friday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Saturday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Sunday Closed
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