Today we’d like to introduce you to Ali Hilal.
Hi Ali, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Hilal Coffee started with a simple ritual, sharing a cup of coffee with my mom every morning. Those moments became some of my favorite parts of the day, and over time, my love for coffee grew into a full-blown obsession. I started experimenting with different brewing methods, learning how to perfect each cup, and discovering how a well-made coffee could elevate any moment.
But the real push to turn my passion into a business came from my wife. She saw how much I loved creating these coffee experiences and encouraged me to take it further, to share it with others. That’s when the idea for a coffee cart was born.
I also noticed a gap in the DFW area for a mobile coffee service that could provide specialty coffees and teas at events while maintaining a high-end, memorable atmosphere. So, we started small, setting up popup shops at local markets and community gatherings, serving coffee per cup. That helped us connect with people on a personal level and build a reputation for quality coffee and memorable experiences.
Over time, we expanded into full-service catering, working directly with event organizers to create custom coffee experiences for weddings, corporate gatherings, and more. Now, Hilal Coffee is about more than just coffee, it’s about bringing people together and making each event unforgettable, whether it’s a bride’s first sip of our Spanish Latte on her wedding day or a corporate team bonding over cold brew. It’s been a journey of refining our craft, building connections, and staying true to the passion that started it all, those morning cups with my mom.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Starting Hilal Coffee was a huge learning curve – I had to figure out everything from sourcing the best coffee beans to managing finances, marketing, and event logistics, all while balancing a full-time job and my personal life. It’s been a lot to juggle.
Running a business on my own means wearing all the hats – barista, marketer, accountant, and everything in between. One of the biggest challenges has been finding the time to stay consistent with marketing and social media. I know how important it is to get the word out and build a brand presence, but it’s tough to keep up with creating content and engaging with followers while also handling the day-to-day operations of the coffee cart.
On top of that, there’s the personal side. I’m trying to keep up with family, friends, and everything else while running Hilal Coffee, and that balance isn’t always easy. Honestly, I couldn’t have done it without my wife, Meera. She’s been a huge help in keeping me grounded and organized – whether it’s brainstorming new ideas, helping with events, or just reminding me to take a break when things get hectic. She’s been my biggest supporter from day one, and Hilal Coffee wouldn’t be where it is today without her. Every cup we serve reminds me why I started in the first place, and that keeps me going.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Hilal Coffee is a mobile coffee cart business based in the DFW area that specializes in providing specialty coffee and tea experiences at events – everything from weddings and corporate gatherings to community popups. We’re not just serving coffee; we’re creating memorable moments with every cup.
What sets us apart is the level of care and craftsmanship we put into every drink. We’re known for our handcrafted lattes, chai, and cold brew – each made with carefully sourced ingredients and a lot of love. We also serve a variety of teas – black, green, chai, Thai, and matcha – so there’s something for everyone. And whether it’s a beautifully poured Spanish Latte at a wedding or a refreshing iced cold brew at a corporate event, we aim to make every sip feel special.
What I’m most proud of, brand-wise, is the atmosphere we create. We strive to bring a touch of luxury and warmth to every event, whether it’s a big wedding reception or a small family gathering. Our branding is minimalistic yet refined, designed to elevate any setting while still feeling approachable.
I also want people to know that we’re more than just a coffee cart – we’re here to make your event unforgettable. We work closely with each client to customize the coffee experience, whether that means a signature drink menu, branded cups, or a fully immersive coffee bar setup. And we’re not just about the drinks – we’re about making connections, creating moments, and making every event a little more special, one cup at a time.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Absolutely. If you’re just starting out, my biggest piece of advice is to be prepared to wear all the hats – marketing, accounting, sales, operations – especially if you’re running the business on your own. You’ll quickly realize that being passionate about your product isn’t enough – you also have to learn how to market it, how to budget, and how to manage your time effectively.
Something I wish I knew when I started Hilal Coffee is that consistency is everything. When you’re running a business, especially one where you’re the face of the brand, people need to see you show up regularly – whether that’s through social media, popup events, or networking. It’s not enough to just make great coffee; you have to keep reminding people you’re here, you’re consistent, and you’re committed.
Another piece of advice is to surround yourself with people who believe in you and your vision. I wouldn’t be where I am without my wife, Meera. She’s been my biggest supporter, my sounding board, and the one who reminds me why I started in the first place, especially on the tough days. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, lean on those around you, and stay grounded in why you started.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of the small wins. Every popup event, every positive review, every connection you make – they all add up. Celebrate them and keep going. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
Pricing:
- Your can book our hourly services for as low as $375 before tax
- Our coffee bottles are $4 a bottle, with other drinks fluctuating between $3-5 a bottle (minimum 10 bottles per order)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hilalcoffee.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hilalcoffee.co/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/hilal-coffee-allen-2?osq=Hilal+Coffee
Image Credits
The Social Circle
Umar Ali
