UBS Monocle
Ride, roast, repeat
Matt McKenna
Founder, Imperial Moto Café
When opening Imperial Moto Café in 2017, founder Matt McKenna set out to combine his two passions: vintage motorcycles and specialty coffee. Housed in an old mechanic’s shop, Imperial Moto Café has since become a haven for people from the community and beyond to gather, share stories and engage in conversation. “Watching this space thrive is what drives us,” he says. “It has grown from a coffee shop to having its own roastery, motorcycle shop and even clothing line. It’s been extremely rewarding.”
Now working with select coffee farms in Brazil and Colombia, the brand is dedicated to responsibly and sustainably sourcing its coffee, which it then roasts in-house. “The café embodies how we look at quality, sustainability and ethical practices across the board,” says McKenna.
His goal has always been to bring together enthusiasts with a shared appreciation for the craftsmanship of motorcycles and coffee. However, the business has evolved further to include a lifestyle brand run from its HQ in Miami’s Little River.
The historic neighbourhood has grown into an epicentre of creativity and new businesses since the café first opened its doors. “It’s built around creators and entrepreneurs who have a passion for disrupting in the best sense,” says McKenna. “Everyone is doing their thing and doing it well. It’s more fun when you’re in a circle of people thinking outside the box.”
Imperial Moto Café plans to add an evening lounge that serves wine and craft beer. “Whether you come here to watch mechanics work on bikes, listen to music, chat with enthusiasts or enjoy the coffee, it’s always going to be done with the same intention,” says McKenna.
Enjoy coffee and vintage motorcycles at Imperial Moto Café, 7299 NW 2nd Avenue, Miami 33150. imperialmoto.com
