Coffee Project New York

Coffee Project New York was established in 2015 by co-founders Chi Sum Ngai and Kaleena Teoh, who transitioned from their previous careers to launch the venture in New York City’s East Village. What began as a single neighborhood cafe has since expanded into a multifaceted operation encompassing retail locations, a dedicated roasting facility in Long Island City, wholesale partnerships, and an extensive educational program. The company’s growth over the last decade reflects a transition from a local passion project to a recognized name in the national specialty coffee landscape.

The core of the company’s operations is defined by its mission to improve the quality of life for every individual within the coffee supply chain, from the producers at origin to the final consumer. This philosophy informs their sourcing strategy, which prioritizes coffees from small-scale cooperatives and family farms. The company actively seeks out lots that demonstrate a social conscience, focusing on producers who invest in improved working conditions and benefits for their farm workers. Their catalog is noted for its seasonal variety, often highlighting experimental processing methods, niche coffee varieties, and the work of women producers.

Education serves as a primary pillar of the company’s identity. Coffee Project New York operates the largest Specialty Coffee Association (SCA)-certified Premier Training Campus in New York State. This facility offers a comprehensive curriculum designed for all skill levels, ranging from enthusiast-focused workshops to professional-grade certification courses. By providing structured training, the company aims to foster career growth for coffee professionals and increase economic opportunities within the industry.

Chi Sum Ngai, who serves as CEO, is a certified Q Grader and a veteran of roasting championship competitions. She personally oversees the company’s roasting program, which utilizes a San Franciscan drum roaster to process their high-grade selections. This technical oversight ensures that the company maintains a consistent standard of quality across its diverse range of single-origin offerings and blends.

The company has garnered significant recognition for its contributions to the New York City coffee scene. It was awarded the 'Most Loved Coffee Shop' title by Time Out New York in 2016, 2018, and 2021. Beyond its retail success, the brand has maintained a high profile through media appearances and collaborations, including educational content for platforms like Epicurious and partnerships with international coffee professionals.

In practice, Coffee Project New York functions as a hub for both community engagement and industry development. They host events such as cupping sessions and business bootcamps, the latter of which is designed to assist aspiring entrepreneurs in launching their own coffee shops. By integrating retail, roasting, and professional education, the company maintains a holistic approach to specialty coffee that emphasizes transparency and the sharing of technical knowledge.