Meet Jose Rivas | Director of Operations

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jose Rivas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jose, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My thought process behind starting my coffee and dog pastry shop was deeply rooted in my family’s love for coffee and dogs. We started our family-owned and operated business back in 2013, where we created a unique space for everyone. Unfortunately, we had to close due to the challenges posed by COVID-19, but we never lost our passion for bringing people and their furry companions together.

Now, we have decided to reopen in the heart of National City, and we’re excited to create a welcoming environment where pet owners can enjoy high-quality coffee while their dogs indulge in delicious, safe treats made just for them. We saw a great opportunity in this community to offer something special— a place where people can relax, socialize, and enjoy quality time with their pets.

Our goal is to foster a sense of community, promote responsible pet ownership, and support local suppliers. We’re thrilled to bring our vision back to life and continue sharing our love for coffee and dogs with our new neighbors.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Reopening our family-owned business with my mom was a dream I was determined to realize. It wasn’t an easy path; transitioning from commercial spaces to where we are now took us eight months of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Throughout this process, I faced numerous challenges and encountered many people who were reluctant to offer help. However, I refused to give up.

With the unwavering support of my family, we were able to overcome obstacles and finally achieve our goal. Just few months ago, we celebrated our grand opening, which was a significant milestone for us. This journey has taught me that anything is possible with determination, resilience, and the right support system.

I want the world to know that our brand is not just about coffee and pastries; it’s about creating a community space where dog lovers can come together, enjoy quality products, and share memorable experiences. Our story is one of family, perseverance, and the belief that we can create something special, no matter the challenges we face.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting the area for a week, I’d want to give them an unforgettable experience! I’d start the first day by inviting them to my coffee shop, Honey Doffee, for a delicious breakfast and a good “café de la olla.” For lunch, we’d head to Mr. Pulpo, the best seafood restaurant in town, where we can enjoy fresh and flavorful dishes. In the afternoon, I’d take them to Pepper Park, which is located along the bay front and offers stunning views of the bay. Throughout the week, I’d make sure to show them must-visit attractions like art galleries, scenic viewpoints, and dog-friendly parks, ensuring we have a fantastic time exploring the unique charm of our community!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my mom Lucia Mulia, who was the original founder of our company. Her vision and passion for creating a space where people and their furry friends could come together have been the foundation of our business.

I also want to recognize the incredible support of my family, who have stood by me every step of the way. Their encouragement and collaboration have been invaluable, especially during the challenging times we faced.

Lastly, I’d like to thank our loyal customers and the dog-loving community in National City. Your enthusiasm and support have inspired us to reopen and create a welcoming environment for everyone. Together, all these influences have shaped our journey, and I am truly grateful for their contributions!

PS. Fun fact Honney is the beloved family Husky Dog and Doffee is Dog + Coffee = Doffee

Website: https://linktr.ee/honneydoffee?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYyw5ojKw5t1gaO9K_44JAFQUl1G92CX3yWuYzkiAEYqBEf7X54-pqa0tU_aem_fdpC9d95Krz-_-RTDQEClg

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/honneydoffee/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fantasiasconchocolate/