Starlene Puckaree.
Image: Supplied
FOR Starlene Puckaree, opening her own café was not just a business decision, but the culmination of over two decades of experience and an unwavering passion for people and food.
Nestled in the heart of Tongaat’s CBD, stands Café 1982.
“I have been working in the hospitality industry for over 20 years. I always had a passion for food, people, and creating a welcoming space. I wanted something that was mine, where I could build relationships with customers and turn my dream into reality,” she said.
However, taking that leap into creating a café was anything but easy.
“The fear is still there and I do not think I will overcome it. The fear of not having customers, of people not seeing my vision and dream and the negativity that comes from social media is all very real for me. But if I did not put myself out there and take a leap of faith, I would not know if I could succeed.”
As a single woman stepping into entrepreneurship, the risks have been deeply personal, she said.
“It is very scary being a single female taking a huge risk financially, physically, and mentally, not knowing what each new day brings. I think time will tell. It was definitely the right decision to believe in myself and to take a chance on my heart’s desire.”
Her café, located in the centre of her hometown, reflects not only her culinary passion but also her deep connection to Tongaat.
Built around quality food, warm hospitality, and a relaxed atmosphere, the space offers more than just meals — it offers a sense of belonging.
“What makes it unique is the personal touch, homemade meals, and the sense of community we have built. The thought behind it was to bring something different and modern to our town, a place people can go to connect over a cup of coffee and good laughter.”
Cafe 1982 in Tongaat.
Image: Supplied
But perhaps the café’s most distinctive feature is its tribute to local history. The walls tell stories of generations past, showcasing images of Tongaat’s people, landmarks, and heritage.
“It represents the generations that lived in our town, showing images of the people, places, and buildings over a period of time as part of the history. I am busy compiling an album with different historic pictures for patrons to view over a cup of coffee and our delicious butter sourdough toasties.”
The idea was born from years of witnessing change, and loss.
“Driving the main street over twenty years and watching the changes, it is heartbreaking. Historical buildings and monuments are no more, gardens removed. I wanted the next generation to know what our town looked like and also bring memories to the older generation of the beauty and warmth of Tongaat.”
Despite the café’s inviting atmosphere, the journey has been far from smooth. Like many small business owners in South Africa, Puckaree faces daily operational challenges.
“It has been very challenging — long hours, learning everything from operations to finances, and handling unexpected issues. Electricity and water are huge issues. Water is constantly cut, electricity cables are stolen or there are outages. So every day has a challenge that needs solutions to move forward.”
Economic pressures add another layer of difficulty. With many residents in Tongaat facing financial strain, dining out is often seen as a luxury rather than a necessity.
“Tongaat is a small town with a close-knit community, many of which are struggling financially. A stop at a restaurant is not part of the budget and this is a reality business owners face,” she said.
Rising costs have also forced careful decision-making.
“Managing costs, maintaining consistent customer flow, and balancing quality while keeping prices affordable is difficult. The rising cost of ingredients and utilities has made it more challenging, requiring careful budgeting and planning. There is only so much a business can cover before price increases become inevitable.”
Still, Puckaree remains grounded and realistic about the road ahead.
“I do not think the restaurant business is meant to see profits, not in the first 18 months at least. Most restaurants close within the first 12 months, and rising costs play a big role in the make or break of a business. I'm being optimistic about it and taking it day by day.”
When asked if she considers herself brave, her answer is characteristically humble.
“Brave? I am not sure if I would call it brave. I think stubbornness is more relative. In this economy many cannot leave a stable job, but I was reaching an age where I knew if I did not do it now, I might never do it.
Cafe 1982 in Tongaat.
Image: Supplied
“Do your research, plan your finances carefully, believe in yourself, and be prepared to work hard every day.”
Despite the obstacles, the rewards make it worthwhile.
“The most rewarding part is seeing happy customers, building relationships, and watching the business grow from a dream into reality.
“Closing up at night, looking at the place and thinking, this girl started selling milk door to door in a crate, now has opened her own little café nestled in the heart of Tongaat,” she said.