Hakan – Hakan’s

What’s your favourite place on the Northern Beaches?
The beaches of Manly.

Is there something about you that would surprise people?
I’ve been living here 20 years – since 1998, came to visit and never left. Born in Switzerland, I have 4 passports and have been practising yoga for 20 years.

What’s something everyone should do at least once?
Visit Istanbul, Turkey.

It’s Sunday afternoon, where do we find you?
Having cocktails at Hakan’s!! Now serving cocktails in the afternoon on the weekends.
Previously you would have found me at either Shelley Beach, Collins Flat or The Bower in my speedos.

If you were down to your last $50 what would you spend it on?
A nice salad and a gin based cocktail.

Business:

How did Hakan’s happen? How long have you been operating?
Worked as a barista at various cafes around the beaches and then decided to go out on my own.
Started serving coffees at Beaches Pizza and then moved to Rialto Square then moved to Victoria Ave.

Best business experience?
Creating my own unique blend of coffee – Hakan’s Blend, It’s a Columbian blend which is roasted in Marrickville.

If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing?
Teaching yoga.

Best part of your job or most enjoyable part of your job?
Connecting with locals on a daily basis.

Most stressful part of your job?
Every day is stressful running a business and dealing with staff.

What’s the best part of working on the Northern Beaches? Why’d you chose to work here?
Love the lifestyle and love the options of so many beaches to choose from.

Personal

What would you rate 10/10?
Manly clientele.

What is the best advice you’ve received?
Be tender, life is so short.

What’s the best thing that’s happened to you this week?
My new waitress called Genevieve! She is very good.

Greatest strength?
My humbleness.

Greatest weakness?
Too kind and naïve.

Does anything scare you?
Sharks and rats.

What’s your most treasured possession?
My old Yoga text books and my old comics – Conan and the Barbarian.

What’s your idea of absolute happiness?
Staying light and keeping life simple, minimal responsibilities.

Which two famous people would you choose to be stuck in a lift with?
Alessandra Ambrosio & Candice Swanepoel both Victoria Secret Models.

What travel experiences is on your bucket list?
Japan, Tibet and Siberia.

How do you switch off?
Yoga and Meditation.

What’s your guilty pleasure?
Greek yogurt with honey and bananas.

Who’s your personal hero?
Robert De Niro.

If you were an animal, what would you be?
Pig.

How would you like to be remembered?
The friendly coffee guy!