We had the good fortune of connecting with Rachel Ho and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rachel, as a parent, what have you done for you children that you feel has had the most significant impact?
I have a 6 year old son who is autistic. He was officially diagnosed when he was 5, but it was suspected from the age of 3. In light of this I think the most important thing I’ve done is to accept him for who he is with his quirks and uniqueness. With the help of his teachers, I try to make sure he he has the support in the areas that he needs extra help, but also embrace his traits that could be challenging (eg obessions, over friendliness and boundless energy) and try to focus them into something positive.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business is called Craving, which I founded with my husband Matt in 2014. We have a licensed cafe and event space located in the Ten 87 music studios complex in Tottenham, serving speciality coffee, an Asian fusion menu, along with beer, wine & cocktails.

Matt had experience in the coffee industry, and I had experience in events and disability employment, and we began Craving in May 2014 as a mobile coffee cart at the local markets. In September of the same year we opened a fully-fledged licensed café and event venue in Gaunson House in South Tottenham.

The pandemic in 2020 saw us nearly lose everything, but thanks to community support through a successful crowdfunding campaign,we were able to get back open and rethink the future of the business. The time also allowed us to rework our food offer, focusing on south east Asian flavours, thanks to owner Matt’s Singaporean heritage.

An opportunity arose in 2021 to work with our long time friends Ten 87, relocating into the world-class recording studio community across the the road on Markfield Road. This collaboration has allowed for more space and a chance to extend our music-led event programming.

A few lessons I’ve learnt are, to always keep your eye on the numbers (in coming AND out goings) and never get to comfortable – things can change at any time so be prepared to adapt and change.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I spend mpost of my time in my local area, which is Tottenham and these would be the places I recommend:

Local Breweries, inparticular Pressure Drop & Ora
Cocktail Bar: Mona’s Bar
Pubs: The High Cross, The Bluecoats
Pizza: Loven, True Craft
Parks: Walthamstow Wetlands, Tottenham Marshes
Haircut: Idris Barbering Co
Lunch: Table 13
Brekky: The Garden Cafe
Recreation: Stronghold Climbing Centre

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family and my local community

Website: https://www.craving.london/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cravingldn/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/cravingldn

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cravingldn

Image Credits
Craving

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.