Jessica Troupe of Sankofa Cafe: Culture, Connection, and Coffee in Montclair's South End | The Scott Team NJ

When people think of Montclair, conversation often turns to the lively dining scene along Bloomfield Avenue or the historic storefronts framing Church Street. But travel south down Orange Road, and you’ll find one of the most vibrant cultural anchors in the entire township: Sankofa Cafe.

Celebrating its two-year anniversary, Sankofa has become far more than a neighborhood stop for a morning espresso. It is a gathering space rooted in history, art, and intentional inclusion.

On this episode of On The Block with The Scotts, Jen sits down with Sankofa’s founder, Jessica Troupe—a former social worker, dedicated mother, and Harlem native who has called Montclair home for more than two decades.

"Go Back and Get It": Rooted in Heritage and Harlem

For Jessica, the cafe’s mission is woven into its name. The Akan symbol of Sankofa—a bird reaching its head backward while its feet face forward—translates literally to "go back and get it".

"I use my ancestors to inform my future," Jessica explains. "That bird is looking back to chart its path forward. It’s always been a symbol that resonated with me, so I knew when I finally opened up my own spot, I wanted to name it Sankofa."

Jessica intentionally linked her Harlem upbringing with Montclair by partnering directly with a Harlem-based coffee roaster.

"Harlem is where I grew up, and there are multi-generational Black families that live there—just like in the South End of Montclair. For the 20 years that I lived here, I loved our local barbers and wonderful restaurants, but for specialty coffee, I had to travel to other parts of town[cite: 1]. As my kids got older, I knew that if I opened a business, it had to be a coffee shop right here in the South End."

The South End of Montclair: A Legacy Worth Protecting

Opening on Orange Road wasn't just a convenient commercial decision; it was a personal commitment.

When asked why she didn't establish the cafe in the center of town, Jessica is clear:

"Why not be here? Why can't we build another generation of Black businesses right here? Even though I’m not originally from Montclair, I am fiercely pro-South End. This community is protective of its legacy and generational greatness. Just as I am territorial of Harlem, I am deeply respectful of families who have been here for three and four generations."

As neighborhood demographics shift throughout Essex County, Jessica views Sankofa as a bridge—honoring long-standing residents while warmly welcoming newcomers[cite: 1].

The Reality Behind the Counter: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome & Asking for Help

While social media often showcases perfectly poured lattes and warm ambient lighting, running an independent storefront requires immense resilience[cite: 1]. Jessica wakes up at 4:30 AM every morning to run what she affectionately calls her "fifth child."

Over the last two years, she has navigated equipment breakdowns, plumbing leaks, and inventory delays. But the most significant personal hurdle was adjusting to the financial demands of business.

"I don't have a business background, and the numbers can be daunting—it makes my eyes glaze over[cite: 1]. I'm a lapsed social worker used to human interaction[cite: 1]. As someone who spent her life being the helper, asking for help was my Achilles' heel.

In the beginning, I thought doing that meant there was a deficit on my part—that classic imposter syndrome[cite: 1]. But I learned that people genuinely want to show up for you. My biggest advice to other entrepreneurs: open your mouth and ask for what you need. Someone might tell you no, but that tenth person will tell you yes."

A Social Work Heart in a Neighborhood Cafe

Jessica’s background in mental health subtly informs how Sankofa operates every day. From training staff on how to greet patrons to knowing when someone simply needs a quiet five minutes with a warm mug without being disturbed, hospitality at Sankofa is viewed through an empathetic lens.

It is also an intentionally inclusive, LGBTQ+-friendly, multigenerational gathering point hosting book readings, open mics, and student art crawls.

Moreover, Jessica prioritizes collaboration over competition. Look around the counter, and you'll find treats from neighboring small businesses, including pastries from Le French Dad, crepes from Crepes Chantal, and baked goods from She's Cakes and Things in Belleville.

"In my mind, rising tides lift all boats. If I can do anything to support another local business, that's what I want to do."

Jessica's Local Guide to Montclair & Essex County

Before wrapping up, we had Jessica share her personal go-to spots[cite: 1]:

• ☕ The Must-Order Signature Drink: A latte infused with cardamom and cayenne—a sweet, spicy, and warming signature espresso beverage.
• 🍽️ Dinner & Takeout: Mesob for authentic Ethiopian cuisine downtown, and Caribbean Touch.
• 🎨 Arts & Culture: The Montclair Art Museum, the Newark Museum of Art, and the historic Claridge Cinema.
• 🎷 Live Music: Outdoor jazz sessions during the summer, student showcases with Jazz House Kids, and shows at The Wellmont Theater.

Explore Montclair With The Scott Team NJ

Whether you're visiting for an afternoon latte at Sankofa or evaluating homes across our diverse Montclair neighborhoods, understanding a town starts with understanding its people.

If you are thinking about buying a home or selling your property in Montclair or across Essex County, our team is here to provide local insight and strategic market guidance.

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Connect with Sankofa Cafe:

• 📍 Location: 319 Orange Rd, Montclair, NJ 07042
• 📸 Instagram: @sankofacafe_nj

📺 Watch the Full Interview: On The Block with The Scotts (Episode 4)
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