Hello!

Who am I ?

I’m Erica Escalante — a cafe and bakery consultant, experienced coffee professional, and former multi-location cafe owner with nearly two decades in the specialty coffee industry.

I started in coffee at 17, and by 21, I opened my first cafe in the Portland, OR area. Over nearly a decade, I grew it into a bustling business with two locations, a full wholesale bakery program, a vibrant food menu, and a commissary kitchen that supported dozens of other small businesses in my city.

In 2021, I made the decision to move to Southern California to be closer to family, closing my business and jumping into operations leadership roles at companies like Canyon Coffee and Goodboybob Coffee Roasters. Since then, I’ve focused on cafe consulting, menu pricing, training systems, and operational strategy for coffee shops and bakeries across the country.

I’ve been in your shoes — as the owner doing it all, balancing the books, managing the team, and feeling like there’s never enough time, money, or support. My mission now is to help independent cafe owners build profitable, people-first businesses — with better systems, better leadership, and a better life.

I live in Los Angeles with my amazing fiancé, Tricia, and my two amazing daughters (6 & 11).

I still believe this industry can be beautiful, sustainable, and full of joy — with the right support.

“I help coffee shop owners the way I wish someone had helped me.”

“But can she help ME?”… Yeah, probably!

  • Advice & Strategy Sessions

    Sometimes you just need someone to talk to.

    These sessions are your space to think out loud, get unstuck, and have and expert in your corner who truly understands cafe life & profitability.

    My clients have used them to review new cafe plans, get leadership coaching, get advice on big decisions, figure out next steps, and/or just feel a little less alone.

    Starting at $300

  • Cafe Business Audits

    The full deep dive for cafes that are growing fast or barely staying afloat.

    This is my most comprehensive service. Perfect for owners who are scaling quickly or feeling stuck and need a real plan.

    I assess your operations, financials, systems, team structure, menu, and more — then deliver clear, actionable steps to help your business grow, stabilize, or reset.

    Starting at $4,500

  • Project Management & Change Leadership

    For when you know what needs to happen — but you need someone who can actually do it.

    From pricing your entire menu to building training systems or launching new services, I step in to lead the process, manage the moving parts, and make real change happen. It’s strategy and execution — handled.

    Pricing varies by project on a retainer basis

  • Education & Workshops

    Teaching is one of my favorite ways to support this industry.

    I lead workshops and classes — both virtually and in-person — on everything from business fundamentals to leadership development. I make complex topics feel accessible, and I center the real-life experiences of cafe and bakery owners.

    Whether I’m teaching a public class or training your team directly, it’s always practical, encouraging, and rooted in real-world operations.

    Available for private bookings & public events

  • Speaking & Collaborations

    I love teaming up with people and brands who want to bring more depth, strategy, and care to this industry.

    I work with brands, events, and platforms on things like public speaking, panel moderation, content creation, industry education, and event activations. Whether it’s a keynote, an Instagram partnership, or a thoughtful campaign — I bring real experience, fresh perspective, an engaged audience, and a deep love for this industry.

    Let’s collaborate.