“In a world where you can be anything just be kind,” is the quote that Cem Genc lives by.
His caring, compassionate and positive nature shines through in the bright and cheery pink decor that adorns Pinky Promise, the friendly wee cafe that is causing a stir in Stonehaven.
Situated in the heart of the community in Allardice Street – across from Market Square – Cem’s cafe has been positively bustling since it opened last month.
Describing it as a “leap of faith”, Cem (prounced Gem) says it’s a huge privilege to bring a fresh flavour to the seaside high street.
Community spirit
And as well as mouthwatering milkshakes, delicious ice cream, locally sourced coffee and lip smackingly good cakes, Cem will also be spreading good cheer throughout the community by raising money for charity.
“You’re there for the community and they’re there for you,” says Cem who was born in Turkey before his family moved to Scotland.
“It’s a nice feeling knowing that you’re doing your best to help them and they’ll support you.
“Don’t get me wrong, it’s a business at the end of the day but the way I see it the business should help the people around it.
“I always go with this quote “In a world where you can be anything just be kind” and giving back is probably the kindest thing anyone can do.”
Young entrepreneur
Working his socks off in hospitality since he was a teenager, Cem always dreamed of opening his own cafe so when the opportunity arose he grabbed it with both hands.
“I’ve been in the hospitality industry since I was 16 so I’ve always worked in kebab shops, fish and chip shops and restaurants,” says Cem who studied business, management and marketing at university.
“People say stick to what you’re good at so I combined hospitality with marketing and that’s how it came about.
“I’ve always wanted to have a little cafe as they are places where like-minded people get together.”
Bright and beautiful
From the colourful soft chairs and hanging flower arrangements across the window to the bright pink neon wall signs and bespoke wall art, everything about Pinky Promise screams Instagram.
The proof is certainly in the pudding though as the eye catching pink menu is a feast for the eyes.
Oreo milkshake
For those with a sweet tooth, the milkshakes are a sugar rush like no other.
“We’ve got an oreo milkshake and a death by brownie one which is completely all chocolate,” says Cem who is a self-confessed chocoholic.
“We also have a peanut butter jelly milkshake which is made using peanut butter and strawberry jam – it’s a meal in itself and I can honestly say if you don’t have any allergies to nuts that would be your go to.”
Classic milkshakes have also been very popular with customers of all ages.
“We’ve also got a strawberry milkshake and a chocolate and banana milkshake,” says Cem.
“They are made fresh with ice cream, ice cubes, milk and fresh fruit like bananas and strawberries.”
Caffeine kick
Coffee lovers can also get a locally sourced caffeine kick with everything from iced lattes and espressos to cappuccinos, flat whites and Americanos.
“I get my coffee from Figment Coffee in Aberdeen,” says Cem.
“There’s a lot of science behind serving coffee.
“I say to my staff, anyone can serve coffee, cake and ice cream but it’s how you serve it and what you serve.
“I wanted coffee to be one of the key ingredients in this business so I had to get a good one.
“I’m also a coffee lover myself so I believe coffee should be great.”
Piece of cake
And what’s a coffee without a sweet treat?
“We have cakes which are served with whipped creams and fruits so you don’t feel guilty,” says Cem.
“People can also choose a mix of four, six or eight macaroons which are great for sharing and come with fruit.”
Ice cream
Electric blue and red in colour, the sweet summer slushes have also been a big hit with children as have the ice cream cones and tubs.
“I use ice cream from Simpsons of Buckie,” says Cem.
“We’ve got 10 different flavours and the most popular ones are bubblegum, mint chocolate chip and the classic luxury vanilla flavour.
“They come with a choice of sauces and you can also add a topping too.”
Light bites
Together with their sweet treats and drinks, Pinky Promise also has light bites too such as nachos, smoked salmon bagels, Dutch mini pancakes, paninis, toasties, ciabatta and hummus, porridge, soup of the day, greek salad, mixed olives and grilled halloumi.
“As I thought more about what I could offer in the cafe, I thought, ‘why don’t I do paninis, toasties and light bites?’ Because people were asking us if there was anything healthy and light to eat for lunch and brunch because they wanted to come in and stay for longer,” says Cem.
“I can honestly say now that the average customer spends up to half an hour to an hour and even longer in the cafe and that for me is amazing.”
Although Pinky Promise has only been open since last month, the feedback from customers has been brilliant.
“The feedback from the customers has been great,” says Cem.
“Starting a business is probably one of the most challenging things in your life because you’re going to work with new people, you’re going to be doing new things and it’s going to be stressful,” says Cem.
“You’re going to be under a lot of pressure but it’s also exciting.
“You take the good with the bad and take it on the chin and get on with it.”
Asked what the secret to his success is, Cem says: “Do it with passion as the minute you start to do it disheartedly things can fall apart and you can deviate from your passion,” says Cem.
“Never lose hope.”
A round of questions with Cem Genc
It’s the end of the day, what do you pour yourself?
I like an Americano.
If you were a drink, what would you be and why?
An espresso, just because I’m a coffee lover.
Most unusual drink you’ve ever tried?
An old fashioned cocktail.
What’s the most under-rated drink?
None.
What’s in your drinks cabinet at home?
Coffee, whisky, beer, more whisky then more coffee.
Best food and drink pairing?
Dutch mini pancakes with Nutella and fruits and coffee.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three drinks would be there with you?
Water, coffee and whisky.
You have to make a drink to represent Aberdeen/Aberdeenshire. What would that be?
I would make a Biscoff milkshake with Nutella on top of it.
You have to serve your favourite superhero or celebrity a drink. Who is it and what do you serve?
My superhero is Iron Man, and he drinks Americano.
Tell us a secret trick of the trade?
Secret trick of the trade is to be who you are and own your vision.
For more information check out Pinky Promise on Instagram and Facebook.
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