Festive finds and cozy vibes at Goodies Coffee and Gift

On Beach Road in Garapan, Goodies Coffee and Gift has quickly made a name for itself as a specialty café and a charming boutique. Owned by Amanda Yu, this unique space combines her passion for coffee, art, and interior design to create a haven for the Saipan community.

“The name ‘Goodies’ reflects items that are fun, appealing, and enjoyable—qualities that we aim to pass on to our customers,” Yu shared. “It represents not only the high quality of our products, including our coffee but also the positive atmosphere we strive to create. My goal is to ensure every customer leaves with a smile and a memorable experience.”

Yu, who holds a master’s degree in education from a mainland U.S. university, spent years in the education field before embarking on this new venture. “Opening a coffee shop is a completely new venture for me, but it combines my love for art, fashion, and interior design. It’s my passion to share the things I love with my customers and friends, which makes this journey incredibly rewarding,” she said.

Yu’s personal love for seasonal home decorating has played a key role in shaping her approach to Goodies Coffee and Gift Shop. “I enjoy transforming my home with themes for spring, summer, autumn, and Christmas,” she shared. “I’ve brought that enthusiasm into my business. Seeing the joy on customers’ faces when they discover our Christmas cups or themed décor inspires me every day.”

Her concept for Goodies draws from her experiences visiting creative coffee shops in the U.S. and Japan. “In the U.S., non-franchise coffee shops often blend design, lifestyle, and personal touches, reflecting the owner’s unique taste. I wanted to bring that concept to Saipan,” Yu explained. “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and I’m thrilled to offer something fresh and distinctive to our island community.”

The café is known for its standout drinks, particularly the Matcha Oreo Latte, Butter Latte, and Soybean Latte. Yu described the Matcha Oreo Latte as “inspired by traditional Japanese matcha tea, blending its earthy richness with crispy Oreo crumbles and creamy milk for a smooth and delicious treat.”

The Butter Latte, another customer favorite, offers a unique twist on the classic drink. “It features a velvety foam topping that adds a creamy and smooth finish. It’s available both hot and cold, with customizable sugar levels and optional coffee shots to suit your taste,” she said.

On the gift side, Goodies has become a go-to spot for seasonal decorations, silver jewelry, and eco-friendly reusable bags. “Our Christmas decorations, like mini trees and festive garlands, have been especially popular this season,” Yu noted.

Goodies’ personal touch is what sets it apart. “I painted the shop myself, handpicked every item, and curated the space to reflect my style and preferences. It’s a true labor of love, and I think customers feel that personal connection when they visit,” Yu shared.

The shop’s dual purpose as a café and gift shop creates a seamless experience for customers. “Some customers come for coffee, others for gifts, and many enjoy both. The café and gift shop complement each other beautifully—while waiting for their drinks, customers often browse and discover unique items,” she said.

Like any new business, Goodies has faced its share of challenges. “Our popular Tiramisu Latte—a layered drink inspired by the classic dessert—has been temporarily unavailable at times due to delays in sourcing quality cream and cheese,” Yu revealed. “I refuse to compromise on quality, so we’ve had to adjust when these challenges arise.”

Goodies opened in late September 2024, during challenging economic times, but Yu remains optimistic. “Even during tough times, I believe in staying optimistic and fostering happiness,” she said. “This shop has already brought me so much joy, allowing me to connect with wonderful people and build friendships. I hope it brings the same joy to the community.”

Step into Goodies Coffee and Gift Shop this holiday season and immerse yourself in its charm. From seasonal drinks served in custom-designed Christmas cups to beautifully curated gift items, Goodies offers an experience that’s warm, and personal on Saipan. Goodies is conveniently located on Beach Road, next to Hardt Eye Clinic and near Triple J Motors Saipan.

For more information or to place an order, you can reach them through WhatsApp at (670) 287-6177 or follow them on Instagram at @goodies_coffee_gift.