David Soffer is a name that has become synonymous with both business acumen and a deep love for coffee. As the founder of TechRound, a leading platform that showcases startups and tech news, David has built a six-figure empire through his innovative approach to business and his dedication to quality—in both his work and his coffee. For David, the world of coffee is more than just a morning pick-me-up; it’s a strategic tool that has played a significant role in his success. By meticulously sourcing the best coffee shops in London, David has created a unique way to connect with clients, investors, and partners, setting himself apart in the competitive business world. His story is one of passion, precision, and the power of small details in building meaningful relationships.
David’s journey as a self-proclaimed “coffee snob” began several years ago, during an internship at a digital marketing company in 2014. At the time, he was a regular at Caffe Nero, a popular coffee chain, and thought nothing of it—until one of the company’s developers called him out for his choice. “Why are you drinking that?” the developer asked, dismissing David’s daily Caffe Nero habit as “rubbish.” Confused, David defended his choice, only to be taken to a small, independent coffee shop called Store Street Espresso. It was a defining moment. The coffee he tasted there was unlike anything he had experienced before—it was rich, nuanced, and far from the “burned rubbish” he had grown accustomed to. From that day on, David became obsessed with finding the best coffee in London, and his obsession soon became a key part of his business strategy.
Over the years, David has scoured London to identify the city’s top coffee shops, and he now has a list of five favorites that he swears by. These aren’t just any cafes; they’re meticulously researched and vetted, offering not only exceptional coffee but also an atmosphere that is conducive to meaningful conversations. Omotesando on Newman Street, Store Street Espresso on Store Street, Kaffeine on Great Titchfield Street, Attendant Coffee on Foley Street, and Monmouth Coffee Company in Borough Market make up David’s “secret weapon” list. Each of these cafes has its own unique charm and commitment to quality, and David goes to great lengths to ensure that any client or investor he meets is impressed not just by his business ideas, but also by the care and effort he puts into every detail of their meeting.
For David, the choice of venue for a business meeting is anything but trivial. He believes that coffee is a “bridge between being formal and informal,” offering a comfortable middle ground where people can relax and engage without the pressure of a formal dinner or the sterility of a conference room. By taking clients to one of his carefully curated coffee shops, he sends a subtle but powerful message: he is someone who cares about quality, who does his homework, and who is willing to go the extra mile to create a positive experience. It’s not just about the coffee; it’s about the thought and effort behind it. “It’s a bit like dating,” David explains. “If you take someone to McDonald’s, they’ll think one thing. But if you take them to a nice place that’s a bit out of the way, they’ll remember it. Same thing with coffee.”
David’s clients have certainly taken notice of his efforts. He recalls numerous instances where clients have messaged him after meetings to ask where they had coffee, not just because the coffee was great, but because the experience stood out in a world where “mediocre, conference-level coffee” is the norm. For David, this is proof that his approach works. In a world where so many business meetings feel formulaic and uninspired, a well-chosen coffee shop can be a game-changer. It’s not just about the coffee; it’s about creating a connection, a sense of shared experience, and a memory that lingers long after the meeting is over.
For all his success, David’s love of coffee has sometimes been met with skepticism—even mild annoyance—from those who don’t understand his obsession. But for him, it’s worth it. “Let me be really, really pretentious about it,” he admits with a laugh, “because it’s only going to affect me.” For David, the pursuit of great coffee is a labor of love, and it’s a philosophy that extends far beyond the cup. It’s about attention to detail, a commitment to quality, and the belief that even the smallest choices matter when building relationships and growing a business. In the end, David’s story is a testament to the power of passion and the importance of finding what sets you apart—whether that’s a great cup of coffee or a unique approach to business.
