Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Karrar Hashem and Hamed Mudher . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hamed / Karrar, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

Hamid and Karrar started coming up with the idea of Lune back in their University of Washington days. Because of their Arabic culture and background, they were constantly searching for a non alcoholic late night hang out spot. Looking for this kind of place for years soon made them realize it was something the city of Seattle was missing. They knew making Lune a reality would be worthwhile for every cultural generation to follow them; creating a space they never had the opportunity to experience themselves.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hamid and Karrar never had experience in the restaurant industry, but the desire they had to create a unique experience for their demographic pushed them to explore it. Lune offers a variety of items ranging from savory to sweet, something for everyone in any mood. They are most known for their ‘Lune Glows’ which are refreshers that come in a variety of flavors, as well as, with fresh muddled lime and mint. If you are feeling something on the sweeter side try a milkshake or any of the delicious desserts, including pastries or their famous decadent chocolate covered mini pancakes. All of Lune’s items come with a twist. From its unique flavor such as their Caramel Matcha Latte and Kinder Bueno Mini Pancakes to eye candy such as the Strawberry Heaven Toast. The cafe itself also offers an aesthetic dine in space for a fun experience, including an assortment of boardgames and an instagram wall with the option to take a polaroid picture in store. They are most proud of their hardworking team for providing excellent service to all guests and the amazing feedback they have been receiving so the vision aligns with the guests needs and wants. With all of this in mind, they created their mission statement: “Find yourself needing a little escape? Lune is crafted to provide a captivating sensory experience. Don’t miss the ride and recharge with every sip & bite. Buckle up and get ready to glow!”

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing Lune has been a multitude of little concepts and suggestions from guests and employees. Their goal was to listen to the market and adapt to both feedback and trends with a quick execution and turn around. An example of this is their new brunch menu that came with signature flavored espresso drinks and a whole array of toasts and sandwiches. It also created a whole new and captivating dine in experience.

Any advice for managing a team?

Their best advice for managing a team, while maintaining high morale is to always be thinking about the external customer and internal customer. In this case, the internal customer for management is its employees. Without compromising values and principles they think of every decision in a WIN/WIN/WIN outcome. A win for the guests, a win for the employees and a win for the business. Lastly, is to set high expectations and identify what motivates each specific employee and to cater the recognition to what fits them best.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @lunecafe_glow
• Facebook: Lune Cafe
• Other: tik tok: luneglowcafe

Image Credits
catering picture with the toothpicks: @aubrie.legault on instagram