Brewing dreams, burning out - why passion isn't enough to keep the coffee flowing

- octubre 11, 2025

October 12, 2025

Dear readers,

Like many of you, my phone is filled with saved Instagram posts of new cafes I'd love to visit.

The promise of a good cuppa accompanied by an artfully plated baked good while seated in a tastefully decorated interior is hard to resist.

But by the time I make my rounds to some of these places, they've closed down.

It's a reminder of how unforgiving Singapore's food-and-beverage scene can be, even as the dream of owning one continues to draw in new hopefuls.

For many owners, running a cafe isn't just about coffee – it's about freedom, creativity and community.

Yet the reality often involves burnout, financial strain and the quiet heartbreak of letting go.

In this week's Big Read, CNA TODAY speaks to cafe owners who've lived that journey – discovering what it really takes to keep the coffee flowing even after the romance fades.

Yours faithfully,

Maria Almenoar
Supervising Editor, CNA Digital (Features)

Brewing dreams, burning out - why passion isn't enough for cafe owners to overcome harsh realities