Moonwake Coffee Roasters, San Jose – USA

Moonwake Coffee Roasters’ flagship location is a place where your senses come alive. When Mabel and Ming, two passionate coffee lovers, came together at the height of the pandemic to roast coffee as a hobby, they never imagined that their shared passion would evolve into a thriving, well-crafted coffee hub. What began as a simple pastime soon blossomed into a space with a story to tell—Moonwake isn’t just a coffee shop; it’s a sanctuary. It’s a place for calm and reflection, designed to help one escape the fast pace of life and immerse oneself in the thoughtful preparation and craft of coffee. Above all, it’s a space that fosters human connection.
A clear and compelling brand vision is at the heart of any great venture, and Moonwake’s vision is no exception. True to its name, “Moonwake” refers to the reflection of the moon on a body of water, which becomes the central theme of the concept. This serene imagery is paired with Asian-inspired design elements, carefully selected to evoke a modern, minimalist, and peaceful environment.
The evolution of the Moonwake concept began with a deep exploration of the elements that would bring its unique vision to life. Each design choice—ranging from the layout to the materials—was inspired by the cyclical nature of the moon and its connection to ritual and process. The space is intentionally arranged to reflect the waxing and waning of the moon, with one side representing the seating area and the other the coffee bar. A central concrete bench, flanked by a coffee tree, anchors the room and symbolizes the hearth—echoing the traditional, hearth-centered design of many East Asian homes.
The seating area evokes the feeling of strolling through an indoor garden, with a path that unfolds differently as you move through it. The space transitions from a series of fixed benches to a counter to a planter and finally ends in a cozy, soft seating nook. This journey through space extends Moonwake’s vision for creating a serene environment that emphasizes human connection and quiet moments of reflection.
Materiality plays a significant role in bringing the vision to life, reinforcing the symmetrical and reflective nature of the space while highlighting the artistry and care involved in the coffee-making process. The wooden finishes at the center of the ceiling mirror the curved forms of the two dropped ceilings on either side, guiding the eye toward the heart of the operation: the roastery area tucked behind sleek glass sliding doors. A natural stone coffee bar countertop and white oak finishes on the benches and counters provide subtle, impactful, Asian-inspired touches. Additionally, arched back-bar shelving with a backlit frosted glass divider offers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes processes of the kitchen, drawing customers into the magic of coffee creation.
With its flowing seating arrangements, floating plant shelves, and the gentle undulation of forms throughout, Moonwake Café stands as a testament to the dedication and ambition of its founders. From the thoughtfully designed layout to the carefully selected materials, every detail of the space has been crafted to foster a sense of calm and connection. Moonwake is not just a place to grab a cup of coffee; it’s a sanctuary for those seeking a quiet moment, a reflective pause in a busy world—and it’s here to stay.