Sandeep Singh Mann has managed his fair share of cafes but he never dreamt he'd one day open his own.
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But the owner of Wollongong Central's newest coffee hot spot is now angling to see RUH Cafe rival similar establishments in Melbourne and Sydney.
That's why Mr Mann has opted for a minimalistic and modern decor for the cafe space, previously home to Jamaica Blue.
"We are going for something a bit more clean and classic but still maintains a welcoming vibe for our community," he said.
"There aren't that many very minimalistic, modern cafes in Wollongong. We hope to lead the way because we believe the trend will start soon and Wollongong's cafes will be similar to the trendy ones in Melbourne and Sydney."
This approach also means not only offering great coffee, but tasty food including a big selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.
"People seem to be more health conscious so it's important we reflect that. Over time our menu will reflect what our customers want."
Mr Mann arrived in Australia from Malaysia in 2016 to study at the University of Wollongong.
He has since completed a Bachelor of Commerce and Masters of IT at UOW.
But it was in July 2016 when his mother visited that the idea of opening a cafe first popped in Mr Mann's head.
"My mother had her first coffee at Jamaica Blue. I joined her for lunch and remember telling her if this space ever became available I'd take it and open my own cafe. When Jamaica Blue left I jumped at the chance to make the space my own," he said.
Family has played a big part in Mr Mann opening the cafe, with his late father acknowledged in the name and logo of RUH (which means soul in ancient Urdu and Hindi) Cafe.
"The logo of the cafe outlines a photo of me with my father. The picture was taken in February 2020 at the airport. That was the last time I saw him, he passed away in May of that year," Mr Mann said.
"Because of COVID I haven't seen my mum or siblings since then also.
"I'm hoping they will come soon and see what I've created here.
"I want not only my family but all families to feel welcome here. We will do our best to offer great food and service for young and old alike."
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Agron Latifi
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
