Getting to Know Street Coffee and Tips to Start the Business

Street coffee is more than just a passing trend. Behind the simplicity of roadside coffee stalls lies a huge business potential. 

From pushcarts to modern coffee trucks, street coffee has become a common sight across cities. 

For many, it’s the go-to solution for a quick, affordable, and tasty caffeine fix.

This article dives deep into the world of street coffee, what it is, the different types, and practical tips to start your own business. 

Let’s get into it!

What is Street Coffee?

Street coffee is a growing trend shaped by today’s fast-paced lifestyle. 

In simple terms, street coffee refers to coffee sold on the roadside, usually from a pushcart, a small booth, or a modified three-wheeler to allow for easy mobility.

It offers a practical way to enjoy quality coffee without breaking the bank. 

You can often find these setups on sidewalks, near office areas, in city parks, or shopping centers. 

Many vendors even opt for mobile setups to be closer to their customers.

The target market usually includes students, office workers, and anyone looking for a good cup of coffee that’s fast and affordable. 

Street coffee is ideal for people who need caffeine on the go without having to queue or enter a cafe.

The trend is driven by Millennials and Gen Z who value convenience and efficiency. 

They often grab their coffee on the way to work, during breaks, or while taking a quick breather in the middle of a busy day.

Affordable prices, strategic locations, and grab-and-go services are the core strengths of street coffee. 

No need for a formal setting, you can still enjoy your favorite brew anytime, even for as little as a dollar.

Popular Types of Street Coffee Concepts

Source: instagram.com

Street coffee isn't just about selling coffee by the roadside, it comes in many interesting formats. 

Here are some popular street coffee concepts in Indonesia:

1. Motorbike Coffee Carts

This is the simplest and most affordable option. 

You can start with just a motorbike and add a small rack or box for your brewing tools and coffee supplies.

Motorbikes can easily navigate tight spaces, making them perfect for areas near campuses, parks, or train stations. 

However, due to limited space, careful planning is needed for equipment storage.

2. Pushcarts or Mini Booths

Pushcarts are the most familiar form of street coffee. 

They typically operate in fixed or semi-permanent locations but remain movable when necessary. 

Costs are relatively low, you can start with as little as IDR 1.5 million.

With more space than a motorbike, you can offer a wider variety of menu items and brewing tools. 

This setup suits those wanting to build a brand in a single location.

3. Coffee Vans

Vans provide enough space to carry complete brewing gear, including espresso machines, portable stoves, and snacks. 

This concept is ideal for festivals, tourist spots, or large events.

Coffee vans also offer a more premium feel, but they require a bigger investment compared to other formats.

4. Pick-Up Coffee Bars

A pick-up truck can be converted into a mini professional coffee bar, perfect for targeting true coffee lovers. 

These setups often serve single-origin Arabica beans, sourced locally or internationally.

They’re commonly found at major events or strategic, high-traffic locations, great for drawing in serious coffee enthusiasts.

5. Bajaj (Three-Wheeled Vehicle)

The bajaj is a unique and eye-catching coffee stall option. 

It’s larger than a motorbike or cart, allowing for more supplies. 

You can even customize it into a mini coffee shop with a display counter.

While it’s not as mobile as a motorbike, it still offers decent mobility. 

Since it’s still relatively rare, it can help your brand stand out.

Read more: Angkringan: Business Concept, Advantages, and Menu Ideas

Tips to Start a Street Coffee Business

Street coffee isn’t just about selling coffee, it’s about offering a unique experience in the right place.

With proper preparation, this business can become a major opportunity, especially in Indonesia, where coffee culture runs deep.

Here are some helpful tips to kick off your street coffee business:

1. Choose a Unique Vehicle or Concept

Use standout vehicles like a bajaj, van, or vintage motorbike to stand out in the crowd. 

Add eye-catching design elements to attract attention.

Bright colors, clear signage, and a clean, simple look make it easier for customers to recognize your brand. 

A creative concept can be your unique selling point and boost memorability.

2. Pick a Busy, Strategic Location

A good location helps you reach more customers. Look for high-traffic spots like campuses, city parks, or tourist hubs.

If prime spots are hard to find, consider creative alternatives like riversides or underpasses. 

As long as it’s safe and accessible, an unconventional location can become a major draw.

3. Prioritize Quality While Staying Affordable

Good coffee doesn’t need to be expensive, it just needs to be consistent and match local tastes. 

Choose coffee beans that fit your budget and reliable brewing equipment.

Fancy tools aren’t necessary, what matters is great taste and good presentation.

4. Customize the Menu Based on Market Preferences

Understand your target market and tailor your menu to their tastes. 

Offer tubruk, americano, or cold brew for coffee connoisseurs.

For general customers, serve kopi susu (milk coffee), palm sugar coffee, or local spice-infused variants. 

Add snacks like bread, cakes, or light bites to keep customers coming back.

5. Promote Through Social Media

Young people are your main market, so being active on social media is a must. 

Use Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) to showcase your products, brewing process, and customer interactions.

Post aesthetic photos, short videos, or customer reposts to build trust. 

Engaging regularly also strengthens customer loyalty and community.

Read more: 30 Promising Small Capital Food Selling Ideas, You Must Try!

Conclusion

Street coffee is more than just a beverage business, it’s a dynamic adaptation of coffee culture. 

With flexible capital, creative approaches, and the right concept, street coffee can become a long-term source of income.

If you’re ready to start your own street coffee business, make sure you're also operationally prepared. 

Use ESB POS, a holistic point-of-sale app designed specifically for culinary businesses.

ESB POS helps prevent fraud, manage various menus and promotions, and organize table service efficiently. It supports multiple cashiers and is integrated with GrabFood, GoFood, ShopeeFood, and kitchen displays. With this system, your entire sales process becomes more streamlined, faster, and hassle-free.

Ready to take the first step? Contact the ESB team and consult your business needs today!