Today we’d like to introduce you to Enga Moore.
Hi Enga, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
How Lonlai Café Came to Be
By Enga Moore
In 2020, when the world hit pause, I finally took a moment to breath and really think about what I wanted.
For years, I had a permanent career in management, sales, and weight loss. It was fulfilling work. I helped people reach their goals, and I was proud of what I did. But over time, I realized I had simply outgrown it. I felt a pull toward something different. Something that felt even more like me.
What did feel like me? Cooking. Feeding people. Seeing someone take that first bite and smile. That’s where I’ve always felt most at home.
Since 2014, I had been running a small cupcake business on the side, just me in the kitchen, baking for friends, family, and anyone who heard about it through word of mouth. That passion never faded.
Then in 2020, like so many others, I started rethinking life. I’d always dreamed of owning a café…..something small, cozy, warm. So I finally decided to go for it. That’s when the idea for Lonlai Café began to take shape.
The name Lonlai comes from my two daughters, London and Laila. I wanted something meaningful, something rooted in who I am and what matters most to me. Everything about the café….from the food to the service is done with love, and a whole lot of intention.
I was born and raised in Baltimore, and I love this city. But let’s be real Baltimore isn’t always known for amazing customer service. I wanted to change that, even in my own small way. My goal was to create a carry-out café that felt welcoming from the moment you stepped in. Even if you’re only there for a few minutes, I want you to leave feeling like someone genuinely cared.
We officially opened our doors in November 2022, but the dream started long before that. Lonlai Café is built on my love for cooking, my pride in being from Baltimore, and my desire to create something lasting for my family and community.
We’re also known for our signature funnel cake doughnut—a unique treat that brings back childhood memories with a grown-up twist. It’s become one of our most popular items.
As we’ve grown, so has our vision. We recently outgrew our original location and are now in the process of relocating and revamping—a new chapter for Lonlai Café that we’re incredibly excited about. The next version of the café will reflect everything we’ve learned, loved, and dreamed of since the very beginning.
Lonlai Café isn’t just a café. It’s a piece of me and a place where everyone’s welcome.
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?
We had no prior experience in the restaurant industry, so everything was a learning curve — from licensing and staffing to sourcing and operations. We made mistakes, asked lots of questions, and figured it out as we went. It wasn’t easy, but our passion and determination kept us going.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m an entrepreneur who owns a café, a cleaning business, and also specializes in weight loss consultation. I’m proud of building successful businesses from the ground up and creating spaces that serve and uplift others. What sets me apart is my dedication to helping people—whether through food, wellness, or service.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me happy is seeing my family happy.
Their joy and well-being mean everything to me. Everything I do—from the businesses I run to the sacrifices I make—is driven by my love for them. My biggest motivation is building a legacy they can be proud of. As long as they’re good, I’m good.
Contact Info:
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- Website: https://linktr.ee/lonlaicafe
