Zoe’s Java House

Loretta Minke had always had a desire to own a business. After moving to Prince George in the late 1990s, the timing and the details came together for Loretta to finally make her dream a reality. A year after her move, she opened Zoe's Java House, and she is proud to still be in business nearly two decades later. Loretta is quick to attribute that ongoing success to the cafe's customers, many of whom are regulars, as well as her amazing and capable staff who serve those customers so well.

Not only was Zoe's Java House the fulfillment of a dream, it also turned out to be a great way for Loretta to meet people in her new home town. Throughout her years in business, customers have become friends and Loretta now has many relationships within the community that she loves. Prince George has been a wonderful, rich place for her to raise her family as well. "The people here are friendly," says Loretta, and she feels safe and secure in allowing her children to be able to play and ride their bikes in her neighbourhood. She is also grateful for the many outdoor recreational activities that are just a short walk or few minutes drive away in every direction, like skiing, biking and camping.

Loretta enjoys being a part of the downtown business area and the energy that characterizes it. Having been a part of it for so long, she has seen many changes. She has always had great confidence in its resilience and ability to weather changes in the economy. Its current vibe is one that is positive and charged with possibilities. "Our downtown is full of great places to shop and eat," she notes. adding, "all the businesses on Specialty Avenue are great!"