Today we’d like to introduce you to Sandy Nguyen.
Hi Sandy, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I grew up in a family where food was how we showed love, built connection, and created opportunity. From an early age, I learned that hospitality isn’t just about what’s on the table — it’s about how you make people feel. That belief has guided every step of my career.
I started in the industry more than two decades ago, working my way through cafés, restaurants, and operations roles, learning firsthand what it takes to build something that lasts. Over time, I moved from employee to owner, launching and growing brands like Sunday Press and Saigon Hustle with a focus on quality, community, and thoughtful experiences.
What began as small neighborhood cafés turned into multi-location businesses with loyal followings, catering programs, and creative menus that reflect both my roots and my passion for innovation. Along the way, I’ve learned how to build teams, manage growth, navigate challenges, and stay true to the heart of hospitality — serving people well.
Today, I’m proud of what we’ve built: places that bring people together, support local communities, and create meaningful opportunities for the people who work in them. My story is really about turning a love for food and service into sustainable, people-centered businesses — and continuing to grow with purpose.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Absolutely not, and honestly, it’s still a bumpy road. Entrepreneurship in hospitality is never smooth. Every phase brings a new set of challenges: finding the right real estate, navigating construction delays, securing financing, building and keeping strong teams, and constantly refining operations. Just when you think you’ve solved one problem, another one shows up in a different form.
No two days and no two locations are ever the same. Each build-out, each opening, each growth stage comes with its own hurdles. But that’s also what has made me stronger as an operator and leader. You learn to adapt, to stay calm in chaos, and to keep moving forward even when things don’t go as planned. The bumps don’t stop, you just get better at handling them.
We’ve been impressed with Ordinary Concepts , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Ordinary Concepts is a hospitality group built on the belief that everyday moments can — and should — feel extraordinary. We create and operate thoughtful, design-forward food and beverage brands that bring people together through great coffee, food, and welcoming spaces.
Our portfolio includes Sunday Press, a modern café known for elevated comfort food, craft coffee, and beautifully designed neighborhood spaces, and Saigon Hustle, a Vietnamese-inspired café and kitchen that blends bold flavors, cultural storytelling, and community-driven hospitality. Each brand has its own personality, but they all share the same foundation: quality, consistency, and heart.
What sets Ordinary Concepts apart is our ability to pair strong operations with intentional branding and experience. We don’t just open restaurants we build places people feel connected to. From menu development and sourcing to design, service, and marketing, everything is done with purpose and long-term vision. We also specialize in scaling neighborhood concepts into multi-location brands without losing their soul.
Brand-wise, what we’re most proud of is the loyalty we’ve built. Our guests don’t just come for a product they come for how our spaces make them feel. We’ve created brands that are part of people’s daily routines, celebrations, and communities.
We also have a growing catering and events arm that serves corporate clients, schools, hospitals, and private events, allowing our brands to show up far beyond our café walls.
What we want readers to know is that Ordinary Concepts is about more than food and coffee it’s about building meaningful, sustainable businesses that uplift neighborhoods, create opportunity for our teams, and bring people together in real, tangible ways.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Never stop telling your story, and never stop meeting people. So much of my growth both professionally and personally has come from learning from others and staying open to new connections. Every conversation is an opportunity to gain insight, perspective, or support, even when you don’t realize it in the moment.
I truly believe the sum of small efforts yields real results. Sending the email, showing up to the event, having the coffee meeting, introducing yourself, it all adds up over time. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. You never know which conversation will change the trajectory of your business or your life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ordinaryconcepts.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sundaypress, www.instagram.com/saigonhustle, www.instagram.com/hausofnguyen
