Dear Bellissimo, We are overwhelmed with your keen courage, brilliant personality, and specialized skillfulness. The pleasure is all ours to have met you. Ed, you are a true gentleman and professional. On behalf of the BONNON COFFEE team, and me we are grateful for your dedicated visit, inputs, and insights. This is an excellent start and we would like to continue working together toward building lasting successful relationship. My sincere regards to Ed, Bruce, Matt and the rest of Bellissimo.
Bonnon Coffee | Saudi Arabia

Rick and I opened Java on the Square in mid February 2009. After renovating the building, we finally decided that it was time to open, ready or not. We settled on a local roaster, Vienna Roasters, in Maryville, TN. We had a soft opening and just turned on the “open” sign without any announcement or advertising. Three weeks later we had our grand opening.

Business has been steady. We have received lots of positive feedback from the community. Currently we are booking different types of entertainment, including Jazz and blues music, poetry readings, Sushi Night and kids reading time. Being owner and manager has been challenging and time consuming, but we have enjoyed all of it so far. There is no way we could have done it without Bellissimo and attending their American Barista & Coffee School. From the design stage to the first sale the training was exceptional and very helpful in getting our business up and running. Thanks so much.
Java on the Square | Athens, TN | Rick & Lea Ann

I would never consider opening a coffee shop, especially now that I’m waist deep in all of the aspects that go into it, without having the Bellissimo people in my corner. Their help has been immeasurable.   

It’s been almost a year since I first met Matt and Ed over the phone, explained my coffee shop plans and ended up contracting with Bellissimo for their full start-up package. Right away I felt like I was in the hands of people who really know the coffee business.

I never had a problem getting a hold of any of the Bellissimo people. Not only were they totally accessible, but they seemed genuinely excited about my project. The logo that Matt designed is incredible. I’ve gotten so many compliments and positive feedback, plus he was willing to try all of my suggestions and ideas and turn them into something way classier then I’d even previously envisioned. On top of that, Matt is a world-class barista and an authority on the coffee culture. And just a really cool guy.

Kris put together the business plan. I’ve seen lots of business plans by now, for all kinds of different businesses, and I can honestly say that Kris’ plan that she delivered (exactly when she said she would) is the most attractive and comprehensive business plan I’ve ever read.

Working with Ed is just awesome. So much knowledge and experience and he is willing to answer any and all questions, concerns, fears. All of the work that Ed has provided, from the financial evaluations to the entire layout of the shop, has been flawless and totally invaluable.

I attended their ABC school in Portland and finally got to meet Matt, Kris, Ed and even Bruce (!) and the experience was amazing, both academically and socially. I feel like I made friends with all of the Bellissimo crew and I can’t wait to have them come out and help with my store’s opening.

I’m grateful for all they’ve done and I consider it to be among the wiser investments I will ever make towards achieving my goal.
Ben Lanoha | Salt Lake City, Utah

Everyone at Bellissimo was amazing to work with. Their knowledge of the coffee business, and food retail in particular, was incredibly helpful. I had very little experience in the world of coffee, and I am so happy that we found Bellissimo. They helped us with the design, the traffic flow, the vendors — almost every part of the business. In truth, I cannot think of a part of the business we did not ask for, and receive, their assistance. It especially all came together during our store training. Bellissimo went above and beyond to insure a smooth opening, exciting training for us and the staff, and excitement for the opening crowd. What I remember the most was Bellissimo’s commitment. They assisted in the design of the menus, the layout of the food and the prep of the food. Everything that was not completed in time for the opening, the consultant taught us, showed us, and then did himself. The compliments we had on that night, and ideas given to us on how to grow and run our business, have given us the inspiration and knowledge to push forward and grow our business. Thank you Bellissimo, we are truly grateful.
Angelo Russo | Fairview, OH

It has been several months since I hired Bellissimo to help me with my current coffee business and to get some valuable insights that would help me in the opening of a second coffeehouse. Bellissimo’s senior consultant, Ed Arvidson, spent several days with us and provided us with valuable suggestions on how to improve our business sales volume and gave us significant advice in the selection of the area as well as the size of a possible second coffeehouse. He validated our thoughts that our current location has the potential to double its current sales provided we invest in the remodeling of the kitchen, reduce the size of our menu, and train our personnel more thoroughly in the customer service area, etc. We have already started to apply his suggestions and with great confidence expect the best in the future. I can truly say our investment was worth it. Thank you Bellssimo for sending such an honest and wise consultant. Our best regards!!!
Demetrio and Vilma Pina | Miami, Florida

Bellisimo is at the top of specialty coffee industry. They helped me develop Magic Bean Coffee from construction until opening day, and I know they will be there for us in the future as the business grows. I was impressed by their professionalism, attention to detail and experience in the industry. My shop is in The Palmas del Mar Resort in Puerto Rico, and as islands go, it is always a difficult endeavor to start a new business such as ours. Bellisimo made our task so much easier. Bellissimio’s design for our shop was derived from only the measurements that I gave them of our vacant commercial space. They transformed it into an attractive, cozy place for those at the resort to enjoy their java. The workplace is very ergonomic and contains only the best equipment the industry has to offer. I highly recommend that if you plan to launch yourself into the specialty coffee industry that you give Bellisimo a call, because it could be the difference between success and failure. Thank You!
Orlando Alvarado JR. | Puerto Rico

I selected Bellissimo because of their excellent experience in helping new comers like me get started. I worked with Bellissimo on the design for my coffee drive-thru as well as the feasibility study to make sure the location I was considering would work. Bellissimo listened to me, took considerable effort to understand what I needed to best meet the demands of my market, and translated those needs into a reality. I have always believed in hiring outside help to get a second opinion on making sure what I was planning would work. I plan to use Bellissimo again for the training of all my staff when it gets closer to the opening my store. I will also attend their coffee school in the near future to gain additional knowledge about the coffee business. It is easy for me to recommend Bellissimo to anyone looking to invest in the coffee business.
Jimmy Murtaugh | Ft Myers, FL

We dreamed of opening a coffeehouse and café that would be a successful business financially and more importantly a success as an integral component of our community. I am proud to say we’ve exceeded our goals on both fronts. It would have been impossible without the direction and guidance of the pros at Bellissimo!

After just a short meeting with Bruce Milletto at Coffee Fest, we knew Bellissimo offered the expertise and experience we need to launch our first coffeehouse. We attended the American Barista & Coffee School, hired their full consulting service and had a two-day onsite training for our entire staff. It would be an understatement to say our expectations have been exceeded in each area!

Bellissimo worked hard to make our vision a reality; La Tazza Espresso Bar & Café is a true success story thanks to their participation and support.
Morgan Murri | Pagoda Springs, CO

Bellissimo is undoubtedly the premier coffee consulting company in business today. We couldn't have opened the doors to Keystone Coffee without their knowledge of proven business practices in this rapidly growing specialty area. 

Ed Arvidson's guidance and support was invaluable throughout the process of designing out bar layout to our Grand Opening. I rely on what I learned from Bellissimo in all aspects of daily operations of our new business. The cost was nothing compared to the cost of the mistakes I would have made had I not availed myself of their services.

In addition to having made exceptional business acquaintances with Bellissimo, I feel that I have made friendships as well.
Dori G. Eglevsky | Virginia

We could not have opened our café without Bellissimo's help. The "hands-on" training with our employees was absolutely invaluable. We took the coffee shop from concept to completion in 8 months. We got help with planning, floor plan design, menu development, opening orders - even cleaning schedules - the works. We really appreciate the guidance we received and would highly recommend to anyone contemplating starting a new business to look into all they have to offer. Hiring Bellissimo saved us a ton of time, and I'm sure money, by helping us to prevent mistakes.
Mike Smith | Kansas

I have had the dream of opening my own coffee café for 15 years and moved to a brand new community in Arizona for that purpose. I have over 20 years of experience in the restaurant and catering industry. Several people advised me that the Coffee Fest trade show was a must before making any decisions. My husband and I went to the Fest held in Seattle October '05 and signed up for several of their seminars, one of which was hosted by Bellissimo with Bruce Milletto as the speaker. As I sat and listened, I was inspired by his approach. His vision as to what a coffeehouse should encompass matched the vision I had held in my heart for so many years. When I was able to talk with him in person, I was even more impressed with the time he took with me and the personal attention he gave to "my" dream.

When I returned home, I called Bellissimo and discussed our plan to go forward. The entire staff was so gracious to me. The first service I contracted for was a Business and Financial Plan. I discussed my vision and dream with them at length before they sent me my first draft. I was truly blown away at how beautifully it was written...before my eyes...my dream unfolded on paper. They also contracted my logo development...and unlike other logo and marketing companies I had spoken to, Bellissimo spent time listening to my ideas and offered me over 12 choices and revisions until it was right.

My business plan and logo have been so well received and have given me such an excellent, high-end representation, that I truly believe that Bellissimo is the reason I got the space my café will be in as well as the financial backing I need. The great thing is, I can call Bellissimo any time I want to ask a question. They keep their word when they say, "We're your consulting company for life." They showed such personal interest in "little ole me" and really made me feel like I was a million dollar client.

BELLISSIMO ROCKS!
And as we prepare to open at the end of 06', it's so reassuring to know they've got my back!
Mary Bettag | Arizona

Bellissimo has been a valuable asset in helping me tame the learning curve associated with starting up any new  business. Ed Arvidson specifically has been a valuable resource providing a library of knowledge bringing together years of experience from coffee to food service. From loan financial submissions, menu planning, hands on training, and continuing through to operations, Bellissimo has been the angel on my shoulder. I highly recommend their services to anyone interested in starting a coffee business.
Rakesh Patel | Washington D.C.

Working with Bellissimo was a fantastic experience!  Their expertise and professionalism in assisting us with everything from our lease negotiations to employee training will always and continues to be the best decision we made. Thank you Bellissimo!
Joel + Peggy Gargaro | Montana

When I first started doing research for my coffee shop, I kept hearing the name Bellissimo. I was curious, but kept along doing my own research. After I found that there was an overwhelming wealth of information that I couldn't possibly wrap my head around even after two years of research, I called them. I am glad I followed through on my curiosity by going to their classes and hiring them as a consultant, because there are no words for how helpful and knowledgeable they are. My shop is open and successful because of many reasons, but Bellissimo is at the VERY top of the list. Thank you all for your generosity and guidance. Your advice was/is indispensable.
Aliya Jiwa | Illinois

The cost of engaging Bellissimo and bringing them to Singapore was insignificant compared to what we gained. I cannot put a dollar value on the service we received from Bellissimo, and I will always be thankful that I brought Bellissimo to Singapore for the opening of my café.
Burso Tan | Singapore

After looking over the available consultants, I decided to hire Bellissimo to help me with the many facets of opening my business. One of the best things we did was to have Bellissimo come to Webster to train our staff. Because of Bellissimo, we were much better prepared and our staff knew what they were doing before we even opened the doors.
Chuck Durand | New York

With absolutely no knowledge of the coffee business, contacting Bellissimo was the best decision we ever made. Their knowledge of the business, and friendly, yet professional attitude, has helped our coffee bar be the success that it is today. Their consultant was a God-send to our business!
Debbie + Stephen Cash | North Carolina

Bruce knows coffee, the coffee business, and the coffee industry. He has put together a successful coaching system to communicate and transfer incredible amounts of knowledge to his clients in a very effective way. Without a doubt he will save you both time and money, but more importantly he is a driving force to make sure that all the pieces are in place, so our business has a chance to succeed.
Kaz Oveissi | Oregon

About one year ago, my husband and I decided to start a business of our own. We began researching several industries, including retail clothing, self-serve laundry, and finally, [thankfully], retail coffee.

The coffee industry excited and impressed us. We became like sponges, soaking in every bit of coffee-related information available. We learned quickly that coffee is a science as well as an art. Thus enter Bellissimo.

Although Bellissimo received the highest recommendations from the Specialty Coffee Association of America and other leaders in the industry, I was still skeptical. I thought the money they required could be put to better use elsewhere. I could not imagine we could get truthful, insightful and caring pieces of advice. Well, I was wrong.

From day one, Bruce Milletto took the time to get to know us and our individual needs. Ed Arvidson, our consultant, consistently went above and beyond the call of duty. Like a mentor, he taught and guided us, never acting like a yes man, always shooting straight from personal experience and 25 years in the industry. We are so thankful to be associated with Bellissimo. They are a tremendous firm.
Joanna Wemple | California

Calling Bellissimo prior to opening my business was the best decision I have ever made! Your consulting services have proven to be one of my most valuable business assets. I appreciate the time Bellissimo spent with us, considering the short notice you were given. Since I opened, I have heard nothing but raves about my espresso, espresso-based drinks and customer service. My people were ready when we opened the doors on day one! I look forward to taking advantage of additional services Bellissimo has to offer.

If I had known about Bellissimo earlier in my planning phases, I could have saved myself a great deal of time and money, not to mention headaches. There was no need for me to reinvent the wheel or stumble to learn everything on my own [alone]. The expertise I needed was just a phone call away. Prior to any expansion, Bellissimo will be the first phone call I make.I appreciate everything you have done for me.
Willie Knapek | Florida

Ed Arvidson was my right-hand man during my store opening and was an invaluable resource for my staff and me. He helped me to stay focused while he did what he does best-staff training. With his extensive background and experience, he knew how to ease the worries and stress involved in opening a new store.

Ed flew in and went right to work as if he was opening his own store. It wasn't a 9a.m. to 5p.m. job for him. He worked the same schedule I worked, which meant getting up early and staying up very late. Ed understands the financial hardship a lot of owners experience, so he makes himself a worthwhile investment.
Justin Wong | California

Bruce, Ed and Kris at Bellissimo Coffee InfoGroup serve in a wonderful advisory role to my company Battery Park City Restaurant Associates, LLP. We are a startup company, novices in the business of running a business, though I have more than 10 years experience in the hospitality industry.The staff at Bellissimo has introduced us to the world of specialty coffee, as well as valuable contacts for construction, design and graphics.

Bellissimo is holding our hands every step of the way, from conceptualization to writing a business plan, financial projections, tradeshow attendance and advice, and opening-day assistance. Bellissimo calls me regularly to checkup on our progress and to advise us of the next steps in the project.

Additionally, though my own research and tradeshow attendance, I found that Bellissimo is the recognized leader in the specialty beverage consulting industry. I would recommend Bellissimo Coffee InfoGroup as an advisor to anyone considering opening a specialty coffee business.
Kevin Carter | New York

We really enjoyed working with Bruce Milletto and the Bellissimo staff. Bruce is a gifted consultant, with vast knowledge in all aspects of coffee business startup and opening. Bruce is also very creative. He developed several specialty drinks and a line of panini sandwiches for our operation and designed parts of the interior decor. We at New York Coffee Company highly commend Bruce and the rest of the Bellissimo crew to anyone.
Doug Boys | Bahrain

Bellissimo is the most outstanding consulting company in the specialty coffee industry. The knowledge and support they provide to existing coffee businesses and startups is unmatched by any other consultant in the industry. No matter what stage your business is in, Bellissimo has the expertise to assist you.

I have worked with the entire Bellissimo staff and found everyone professional and competent. I am very happy with the help I received from each and every one of them.

My staff and I thank Bruce Milletto for creating and maintaining Bellissimo Coffee InfoGroup, a company like no other in the specialty coffee industry. Many thanks to Ed Arvidson for guiding, teaching, and making our life so easy during our startup phase. We also want to thank James Cloutier for supplying a gear vision for The Coffee Factory logo. Last, but not least, we would like to thank Kris Larson for writing a very professional business plan, one that made us look very competitive in the coffee business market.
Dr. Tom Nguyen | California

Bellissimo has the vision, expertise and experience to identify a viable location. They saved me thousands of dollars. I think they're the greatest.
Cindy Ludwick | Ohio

Thank you for all your effort and exhibition of creativity in assembling our business plan and bar design. Without this plan I don't believe we would have had a chance for our location.
John Shane | Virginia

Bellissimo saved me from making a lot of mistakes when I opened my first coffee bar. They helped me in all aspects of getting open, from store design and menu preparation to equipment procurement and training my staff. I couldn't have done it without them. Bellissimo is truly the leading expert of coffee business management.
Tom Elliott | Virginia

Bellissimo gives 110% as business consultants! They each possess an extensive background in assisting others in opening and operating successful coffee establishments. Their passion for coffee and product knowledge is reflected by their tremendous support to their clients.
Ruth Wong | Hawaii

Thank you Bellissimo for your expertise and for being in the business of sharing your knowledge. There is no way I would be where I am today without your help. Your educational materials, [books, training videos] are far superior to any others. Also, the personal consulting I received from Ed Arvidson provided me with invaluable information. Not only is Ed genuinely sincere in his desire to help but he absolutely knows the ins & outs of all aspects of this business. I know this to be a fact, because I chose not to adhere to some of his advise and sure enough, I paid the price. Ed & I are working together again and things are turning in the right direction. Working with Bellissimo will without a doubt set you on the right path. They will always be an intricate part of my business plan.
Karen Benson | Oklahoma