The City of Clarkston is excited to spotlight Kuku Ethiopian Coffee as the October 2024 Business of the Month.
Join us in shining a spotlight on this vibrant café that brings a unique blend of Ethiopian and French coffee culture to our community, founded by Bethlehem Bidiglen.
Kuku Ethiopian Coffee isn’t just a café—it’s a reflection of one woman’s journey and her love for community, culture, and connection, making it a vital part of Clarkston’s growing business landscape. Bethlehem Bidiglen, the owner, grew up in Ethiopia but spent her years studying in Paris. When her child started calling her “KuKu,” it stuck, and soon it became the perfect name for her new coffee shop. In Ethiopia, “KuKu” is also a greeting—fitting for the warm, welcoming space she envisioned.
Bethlehem’s passion for business runs in her blood. Growing up the daughter of entrepreneurs, she’s always been an opportunity seeker, ready to take on new challenges. That’s exactly what she did with Kuku Ethiopian Coffee. Her goal wasn’t just to brew coffee, but to create a space where people from all backgrounds could come together, share stories, and experience the unique flavors of Ethiopian and French coffee traditions. Whether you’re savoring a cup of Ethiopian iced coffee or indulging in a scoop of salted caramel ice cream, Kuku Ethiopian Coffee is more than a café—it’s a cultural experience that adds value to Clarkston's diverse economy.
Now, a little over five months since opening, Kuku Ethiopian Coffee has become a key player in Clarkston’s local economy. The café draws a loyal customer base during busy morning and afternoon hours, contributing to the foot traffic that supports other nearby businesses. Like any entrepreneur, Bethlehem has faced challenges—finding reliable staff being one of them—but through persistence, she’s learned to overcome these hurdles. By focusing on self-improvement and competing with herself rather than others, she’s built a strong foundation that will help Kuku Ethiopian Coffee continue to grow as a local business.
Choosing Clarkston as the location for Kuku Ethiopian Coffee was a natural decision for Bethlehem and her husband, long-time residents of the area. Clarkston’s rich diversity and welcoming spirit made it an ideal place to establish a business that mirrors these values. As the city has evolved—adding new walkways, bike paths, and improving accessibility—Kuku Ethiopian Coffee has thrived in this improved business environment, adding to the community’s economic vibrancy.
Bethlehem is also committed to collaboration and growth, exploring partnerships with other local businesses and supporting community initiatives. Her desire to contribute to Clarkston’s local economy runs deep, and she sees Kuku Ethiopian Coffee as more than just a café—it’s a small business that’s helping shape the future of Clarkston. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? “Don’t let barriers stop you. If you have a dream, go for it.”
Supporting local businesses like Kuku Ethiopian Coffee is an investment in Clarkston’s future. As the city continues to grow and develop, enterprises like Kuku Ethiopian Coffee not only foster community connections but also strengthen the local economy, ensuring a prosperous future for all.
Visit Kuku Ethiopian Coffee at the Clarkston Market, located at 980 Rowland St, Clarkston, GA 30021, to savor a delightful blend of Ethiopian and French coffee while supporting local businesses in our vibrant community! See more on KuKu's Instagram.
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