Meet Jenn Cao

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

Hi Jenn, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
What brings me happiness is the simple joy of connecting with people over something as ordinary as a cup of coffee. Through Humanity Coffee, I’m constantly reminded that coffee is never just coffee. Every cup represents so many hands and stories. From farmers around the world who grow and nurture the beans, to local roasters, to our baristas who bring each drink to life. Being part of that chain of care and connection is meaningful to me.

What truly brings me joy, though, is the human side of it all. It’s seeing someone walk in having a rough day and leaving with a smile. It’s watching a guest take that first sip and genuinely enjoy their drink. It’s getting to learn about people’s stories, cultures, and experiences from all over the world.

Those small everyday interactions is what makes everything worth it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My path has never been traditional, but it’s always been rooted in the same purpose: building meaningful connections. My love for community began long before coffee. It actually began as a middle school teacher. I’ve always had a passion for food, hospitality, and the way shared experiences bring people together. That passion led me to open Kaffeine Alley in Anaheim Hills in 2019, and later Humanity Coffee in Newport Beach in 2024.

Education and hospitality, to me, are deeply connected—both require empathy, adaptability, and intention. Whether in a classroom or a coffee shop, my goal is to create spaces where people feel they belong.

The journey hasn’t been easy. Balancing two careers and navigating the risks of entrepreneurship has challenged me, but it’s also taught me resilience, the value of feedback, and the importance of staying grounded in my purpose. What sets me apart is this blending of worlds—bringing the heart of an educator into business. I’m most proud of the communities we’ve built, and I’m excited to continue growing Humanity Coffee as a trusted brand on the Newport Peninsula.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Grab coffee at Humanity Coffee and walk to the crazy pirate house behind the shop. Grab Bear Flag Fish Co. for fresh poke and head to the beach to eat it. Walk around Balboa Island. Take a jog or rent bikes to ride along the boardwalk to see the Newport Pier and Balboa Pier. Catch surfers at the Wedge. Catch the sunset. Drive over to Corona Del Mar to enjoy the beach.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people who have supported us along the way!

First and foremost, our regulars—they are truly the heart of our shop. Their continued support, trust, and presence are what keep us going every day. Even the challenging moments, like receiving critical reviews, have pushed us to grow, improve, and stay grounded in our purpose.

I’m also incredibly grateful for our baristas, who bring our vision to life. They don’t just make the drinks, but they carry out our mission. At Humanity Coffee, we believe in honoring our responsibility as stewards of the earth and each other. From ethically sourced organic coffee beans to house-made simple syrups, every cup tells a story of global community and local craftsmanship. It’s through their care and intention that we’re able to create something meaningful for our community

Being located on the Newport Peninsula, we’re fortunate to welcome people from all over the world. That constant exchange of cultures, stories, and perspectives is something we deeply value because it reminds us why we do what we do.

None of this would be possible without the love and encouragement of my family and friends, who have been my number one supporters from the very beginning!

Together, all of these people help us create connection, one cup at a time.

Website: https://www.humanitycoffeenb.com

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

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/humanity-coffee-newport-beach

Other: https://g.page/r/CXYVAqNzZGU3EBE/review
https://www.tiktok.com/@humanitycoffeenb