Today we’d like to introduce you to Solomon Sinclair.
Hi Solomon, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started my career in big-box retail, learning what it really means to lead — not by authority, but by earning trust and building connection with the people who show up every day. I was responsible for big spaces, big teams, and big goals, but what I loved most was the energy of bringing people together to do something great. Those early years taught me grit, personal accountability, and how to build something that works even when things get messy.
Eventually, I found my way into specialty coffee and that’s where everything clicked. Coffee is hospitality in its purest form. It’s a smile, a moment of pause, a familiar face remembering your order. I had the privilege of helping lead at a large scale–hundreds of cafés, thousands of employees, all working to create small everyday moments that matter to people. The growth, the strategy, the operational challenges, I loved all of it — but the heart of the work was helping people feel welcomed and cared for.
After nearly 30 years of building experiences for global brands, I felt called to create something more personal, something that reflected everything I’ve learned about people, culture, and what makes a place feel special.
That’s how Simmer Coffee House was born.
At Simmer, the details matter. The warmth of the greeting, the way someone lingers with a friend, the feeling that you belong even if it’s your first visit. We use technology to make things smooth, but the real magic happens in human moments. The moments when someone walks in and feels truly seen.
Opening Simmer was more than starting a business; it was stepping fully into my purpose and sharing the dream with our community. It brought together every chapter of my career into one place where hospitality and kindness lead the way.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Opening Simmer Coffee House has been one of the most rewarding and most challenging chapters of my life. Turning a dream into a real space meant navigating permitting, inspections, delays, and of course financial risks at every turn. As a small café owner, you wear every hat: leader, barista, plumber, accountant, and now more than ever, you must be a content creator who is responsible for telling your story online and keeping people engaged.
Building Simmer also meant embracing technology in ways I never imagined. Creating a seamless tech stack that works—from POS systems to mobile ordering—has required countless hours of trial, error, and collaboration with app developers to ensure our digital experience is just as welcoming and intuitive as stepping up to our counter. Learning new tools and leveraging emerging technology isn’t just optional anymore, it’s essential to delivering amazing hospitality in today’s world.
Then there’s the challenge of staying local and connected while inflation and global supply chains continue to drive up the cost of specialty coffee and ceremonial matcha. Cultivating strong partnerships with other local businesses like roasters, bakers, creators, and community organizations. We are proud that our coffee is roasted locally and our bakery is just minutes away. This has become a key part of staying resilient and rooted in the place we call home.
Every decision matters because every dollar matters. Nothing compares to seeing a guest feel known, cared for, and excited to return. Simmer isn’t just a business, it’s a labor of love that continues to stretch me, teach me, and remind me why I chose this path in the first place.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Simmer Coffee House?
Simmer Coffee House was built on a simple belief: a great cup of coffee can make someone’s day; and when paired with genuine kindness and real community, it can help shape a whole neighborhood. We’re a locally owned café in Cary, and everything we do is centered around making people feel seen, valued, and welcome.
We specialize in craft espresso and matcha drinks that are balanced, flavorful, and made with care — not rushed. Our Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte has become something of a local favorite, along with a lineup of espresso drinks that are smooth and memorable. We also serve Simmer Toasts which are sweet and savory options that give our guests a fun, satisfying breakfast or lunch without overcomplicating things.
What truly sets Simmer apart is our obsession with hospitality and experience. We don’t just hand you your drink and wish you luck. We learn your name, remember your order, celebrate the good days, and try our best to brighten the tough ones. After 5pm, our space can be rented, and we have already hosted special events that will be cherished memories. Our team is empowered to surprise and delight in small ways that make a big difference.
We also believe hospitality includes creating value. Folks 55+, military members, and first responders always receive 10% off, because caring for those who care for others feels right. We never charge extra for oat, almond, or soy milk because we believe your drink should taste how you love it without costing more. And if you bring your own mug or choose one of our in-store cups, we give you 25 cents off as a thank-you for treating the planet kindly… and for slowing down to sit and connect.
Through our Simmer Circle loyalty program on the app, guests earn free drinks faster than anywhere else around. It’s not marketing — it’s gratitude.
We’re also proud to feature rotating local artists on our walls. When their art sells, they keep 100% of the proceeds. Supporting creativity in our community matters to us, and giving artists a platform without taking a commission is one way we can help.
Brand-wise, I’m proud that Simmer feels real. People tell us that don’t know exactly what “it” is, but Simmer just feels different. We love that feedback. We’re not chasing national-chain energy; we’re trying to be your favorite place in the week. A spot where new neighbors become friends, where students find a corner to study, where families make memories over hot chocolate and warm cookies.
What does success mean to you?
For me, success has three dimensions. First is personal growth — setting ambitious goals, staying disciplined, navigating setbacks with resilience, and holding myself accountable along the way. When I show up for myself like that, I feel successful.
Second, success is about relationships — being truly present with the people I love and investing time and energy into those meaningful connections.
And finally, success is about impact. If my business can contribute to the well-being of our community, create opportunities for others, and make people feel seen and valued — that’s a success I’m incredibly proud of.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.simmercoffee.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simmercoffeehouse/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simmercoffeehouse/videos/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/simmer-coffee-house-cary
