Rithyvandy “Tee” Chhay and his wife, Tamara, said they knew there were numerous options for people to get a hot cup of coffee or a dozen donuts on their way to work, so Morning Sunshine Breakfast Treats had to be something more.
Morning Sunshine’s flagship shop offers a place for people to not only buy quality baked goods, but also to watch their children draw on a chalk wall, use the free Wi-Fi to get some work done or unplug from their day-to-day routine.
The duo aims for Morning Sunshine to have a welcoming atmosphere and friendly customer service.
“That’s the most exciting thing is just knowing that they can feel at home when they’re here,” Tamara said. “It’s good to know they can be comfortable like that and speak to us like we’re their best friends.”
The first shop on Lakeline Boulevard opened in fall 2016, and the Chhays said they have seen their business skyrocket over the last four months. They opened a second location last month in North Austin off RM 620.
Tamara credits the customer support in Cedar Park for the rapid rise of the business.
“They’re very supportive of us, and I think that’s what led to the success,” she said.
For Tee, the passion for baking came with time. What started off as a hobby turned into a passion. He used to work in the mortgage industry, but left that in order to open the business.
“I never really had any experience before; it was more of an opportunity that I wanted to learn because it was a foot in the door,” he said.
He said rolling dough, frying donuts or baking kolaches gives him an opportunity for solitude.
Tee usually begins his 12-hour work day at 2 a.m., and when she’s not spending mornings and weekends at one of the bakeries, Tamara works in the health insurance industry. When they go home, Tee and Tamara are parents to two girls, Madyson, 13, and Emma, 9.
“I think I’m just accustomed to it,” Tee said. “For me, I just have to stay on top of it. If you’re not always using your time effectively, then you’ll definitely not have enough time.”
Owners’ recommendations
Blueberry Cake Donut (plain or glazed): a moist, rich, flavorful donut fried in healthier palm oil shortening with zero trans-fat
Brisket Kolache: baker kolache filled with a flavorful brisket. Available on weekends only
Morning Sunshine Breakfast Treats
115 S. Lakeline Blvd., Ste. 100, Cedar Park
512-906-1730
10601 N. RM 620, Ste. 103, Austin
512-581-8959
www.morningsunshinebreakfast.com
