In this episode, I talk with Ida, the founder of Tøllefsenhjørnet in Tromsø, about her journey from working in some of Norway’s pioneering coffee shops to opening her own coffee shop and natural wine bar. Ida shares stories from her years at Tim Wendelboe, where she eventually became wholesale manager, and how her experience in specialty coffee shaped the way she approached her own business. We discuss her decision to return to Tromsø, reconnect with her family roots, and revive the building where her great-grandfather and grandfather once ran Tøllefsen Kolonial. Starting the business came with significant financial and personal challenges, from renovating the space on a tight budget to surviving the difficult first year. Ida talks about the changes that helped turn the business around, including longer opening hours, introducing simple food options, and her homemade pumpkin spice latte syrup. We also discuss the realities of running a coffee shop in Norway, where high labor costs make profitability particularly challenging. Despite the challenges, Ida has built a strong team and a welcoming place where coffee, wine, and community come together. Music by my uncle, Jens Wendelboe.

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