Fresh Brew

Can you introduce yourself?
Hi, I’m Sarah, I’m 29 this year, and I run a café called Ceres. As for hobbies, I like to try different kinds of food, and I keep fishes as pets!

Cool! Can you tell us when you started the cafe?
My friend and I started it in 2023, so around two and a half years ago.

What is it like running an F&B business in these uncertain times?
We’re surviving by trying our best to still run what we’re passionate about. It’s definitely not easy, but I think we’re doing what we can and we’re very grateful to have people that like our café.

What’s been the most fulfilling part about running the café?
Seeing our regulars come back, being able to get to know them, and having conversations with them.

Lovely! What’s your role in the café?
Besides owning it, I basically do everything. My partner and I run the café every day so that we’re able to maintain the standard, and also because we still enjoy making coffee and food. Getting to meet people is lovely as well!

Amazing, so both of you are very hands on! Talking about food, what’s the most interesting or most memorable meal you’ve had recently?
Recently I went to Kyoto, and one of the best meals I had there was a kaisendon (sashimi over sushi rice). It was their local take on the dish, so whatever seafood was in season, they caught it and put it on the table for people to enjoy, and it was really delicious!

Yum! Have you had any Japanese food in Singapore that you think comes close or that you would recommend?
I like Suju Masayuki at Mandarin Gallery. I really like their rice and cod fish—it’s super comforting. Once in a while, I can’t help but crave for it.

What’s your favourite place to visit in Japan?
I’ve only been to Tokyo and Kyoto, but I prefer Kyoto a bit more because it’s generally quieter. However, when I went recently, it was filled with tourists! Despite that, it’s still a very attractive place.

When you travel, do you also try out the local cafés?
For sure! Every morning, I’ll try to find a new place to visit, so I can try out the options they have there and then find out what can we do here to improve ourselves!

Is there a local cafe that you really like, apart from your own?
I usually go to Apartment Coffee, if not Maxi Coffee Bar. I usually go back to the same places to visit friends and to get my coffee fix (laughs).