Boon Boona Coffee: A Bridge Between Cultures, Community, and a Perfect Cup
In a world saturated with coffee shops, a few stand out not just for the quality of their brew, but for the story behind every bean. Boon Boona Coffee is one of those places. More than just a cafe and roastery, it is a bridge connecting the rich, ancient coffee traditions of East Africa with the vibrant, modern coffee culture of the Pacific Northwest. Founded by Efrem Fesaha, Boon Boona is a testament to the power of community, ethical sourcing, and a deep respect for the origins of coffee.
Honoring the Motherland
The name “Boon Boona” itself is a nod to its roots, as both “boon” and “boona” are terms for coffee in various East African languages. Efrem’s journey began with a trip to his homeland, Eritrea, in 2011. While he had grown up with the traditional coffee ceremony, seeing the practice woven into the fabric of daily life in Asmara ignited a passion to share this experience with the world. He was inspired to create a space that celebrates the ritual of coffee—a ceremony that involves pan-roasting green beans, brewing them in a clay pot known as a jebena, and sharing the brew in three successive rounds with friends and family. This is a ritual that continues to this day in Boon Boona’s cafes, offering a truly authentic and educational experience.
A New Model for a Better Coffee Economy
Boon Boona’s commitment to East Africa goes far beyond tradition. The brand exclusively sources its beans from African nations like Ethiopia, Rwanda, Burundi, and Kenya. This isn’t just a sourcing preference; it’s a core part of their mission to create a more equitable coffee economy. By establishing sustainable, direct relationships with growers and cooperatives—with a specific focus on supporting women-owned farms—Boon Boona ensures that a larger share of the profits goes directly to the producers. This approach not only provides vital economic opportunities but also shines a much-needed spotlight on these often-overlooked coffee-growing markets.
Cultivating Community, One Cup at a Time
From its flagship location in Renton, Washington, to its expansion into Seattle’s Capitol Hill, Bellevue, and even on the Microsoft campus, Boon Boona has become a hub for connection. Their cafes are intentionally designed to be inclusive, welcoming spaces that serve as gathering places for people from all walks of life. The company actively fosters local communities by hosting pop-up events for artists, non-profits, and other small businesses. This focus on building relationships—whether with their producers in Africa or their customers in Washington—is what truly defines the Boon Boona experience.
When you walk into a Boon Boona cafe, you’re not just getting a caffeine fix. You’re participating in a story that has been centuries in the making. You’re supporting a business that values people and planet over profit. You’re tasting a coffee that is rich not only in flavor, but in culture and purpose. It’s an invitation to slow down, connect with others, and appreciate the journey of the humble coffee bean—from the volcanic soils of East Africa to the cup in your hands.
Boon Boona is more than coffee; it’s a movement. It’s a celebration of heritage, a commitment to equity, and a daily reminder that the best things in life are those shared with others.
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