How Duo Cafe Brings Community and Craft to NYC’s East Village
Duo Cafe blends beautiful design, handcrafted teas, and a strong sense of “chuan-cheng” (inheritance) to create a space where the next generation can slow down and savor.
Duo Cafe is a tea-focused cafe in NYC’s East Village, known for viral treats like Sweet Potato Ice Cream and signature White Peach Oolong tea, blending tradition with a creative, community vibe.
A Space for the Next Generation, Rooted in Tradition
When Ian decided to open Duo Cafe in October 2023, it wasn’t just about serving tea. It was about creating a space where people could pause. “Drinking a cup of tea in the city hustle is like an escape,” he says. “I wanted to build a place where people can slow down, even if just for a moment.”
Having studied marketing in New York and completed his master’s degree here, Ian had grown attached to the East Village. “I love this area, the neighborhood vibe,” he shares. That connection inspired him to plant roots in the community, bringing a new kind of tea cafe to life.
But Duo Cafe isn’t just another trendy spot — it’s built on the idea of “chuan-cheng” (传承), the Chinese concept of inheritance and passing down culture. “It’s about creating good taste, a good vibe, and sharing that with the next generation,” Ian mentions.
From Viral Desserts to Signature Sips
At Duo Cafe, every drink and dessert is a team effort. “We have an in-house team to create drinks and desserts together,” Ian says. That collaborative spirit has paid off: their Sweet Potato Ice Cream quickly became a social media sensation, drawing lines and likes. Another fan favorite, the Taro Basque Cheesecake, has also gone viral and become a signature item.
For tea lovers, Duo Cafe’s White Peach Oolong is a must-try. “It’s our signature,” Ian notes. Another standout is Bi Luo Chun, a delicate, high-quality green tea sourced directly from Fujian, China — a province renowned for its exceptional teas.
Seasonal creations keep things fresh, as Ian and his team are always testing new ideas to surprise their guests.
Community, Creativity, and Art
One of the most unique aspects of Duo Cafe is its decor. The walls are adorned with vibrant artworks — not from famous artists, but from the very first customers who visited when the cafe opened. “Everyone left something behind,” Ian says, “which makes it colorful and meaningful.”
Friends have also contributed their own design works and sculptures, turning the cafe into a living, evolving gallery that reflects the spirit of its community.
Lessons Learned, Bonding Built
Before opening Duo Cafe, Ian worked in a large corporation. The transition to owning a small business was a challenge. “At first, it was difficult. It’s a huge change,” he admits. But two years into the journey, he has a clearer vision of what it takes to lead a team. One key lesson? The importance of “tuan-hun” (团魂) — the soul of a team, a bond that holds people together.
His advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is both practical and heartfelt: “If you want to start a new business, start slow. Get your hands dirty. You have to really walk the path. It’s a long-term investment — like having a baby and watching it grow.”