In a serendipitous turn of events, Paul Sandoval finds himself embarking on two life-changing journeys simultaneously – becoming a new business owner and a first-time father. Sandoval recently took the reins of the beloved Alki Cafe, a staple of the West Seattle community for about three decades, and is eagerly anticipating the arrival of his son later this month.

With over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, Sandoval brings a wealth of knowledge to his new role. His background includes stints at various restaurants, including BJ's and local establishments in his hometown in Humboldt County, California. However, it was his time in project management that honed the skills he now applies to running Alki Cafe.

"I've always wanted to own a restaurant and have my own business," Sandoval explains. The opportunity to purchase Alki Cafe came at an unexpected but fortuitous time, following a layoff from his position at Expedia. Attracted by the cafe's solid financials and his desire to be more involved in the West Seattle community he's called home for a decade, Sandoval took the plunge.

The new owner's immediate plans for the cafe focus on stability and rejuvenation. "This place needs a lot of TLC," he admits. His priorities include renewing vendor relationships, ensuring clear communication, and maintaining the cafe's reputation for community support. While he doesn't plan major menu overhauls, Sandoval is considering some tweaks, such as potentially removing less popular items like the ahi tuna poke and simplifying the menu layout.

Alki Cafe, known for its all-day breakfast and lunch offerings, boasts specialties like house-made sausage gravy and a variety of Benedicts. Sandoval takes pride in the cafe's affordability, with most menu items priced under $20. The full-service bar, offering popular breakfast cocktails like Bloody Marys and mimosas, adds to the cafe's appeal.

Looking ahead, Sandoval plans to introduce more seasonal specials and potentially bring back customer favorites like the "coin potatoes." He's also keen on expanding the cafe's in-house baking capabilities, aiming to offer more freshly baked goods.

As he navigates his new role as a business owner, Sandoval is also preparing for fatherhood. After a four-year journey with IVF treatments, he and his wife are expecting their first child, a boy, at the end of the month. The couple's experience with IVF, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, has instilled in them a sense of adaptability and resilience that Sandoval believes will serve him well in his new ventures.

"Every couple of years, it feels like you write a new chapter in life," Sandoval reflects. "I feel like I'm writing a new book for life, with a new business and new baby."

As Sandoval looks forward to forging relationships with neighboring businesses and becoming an integral part of the Alki Beach community, he embodies the spirit of new beginnings. With his project management background and hospitality experience, coupled with his enthusiasm for both his new roles, Paul Sandoval is poised to write an exciting new chapter for himself, his family, and the Alki Cafe.

They are located at 2726 Alki Ave SW and are open from 8am to 3pm seven days a week.

• DOWNLOAD THEIR BREAKFAST MENU HERE
• DOWNLOAD THEIR BRUNCH MENU HERE
• DOWNLOAD THEIR LUNCH MENU HERE
• DOWNLOAD THEIR SMALL BITES AND SOUPS MENU HERE