Case Study: The Boss's Daughter Brings Modern Twist to Coastal Classic

When Tessa Dijkgraaf took over the family café in 2016, she knew it was an opportunity to breathe new life into the venue and bring a modern twist to the 38-year old diner-style spot loved by the local community.
 
Aptly renamed The Boss’ Daughter, the new edition bears little resemblance to its past beyond the name. While it sits tucked away in one of Mornington Peninsula’s traditional-style main streets, it could easily fit in with the trendy, Instagram-worthy cafes of Melbourne’s inner suburbs.

 
Tessa had a strong vision from the start that included a complete overhaul of the venue’s menu, interiors and kitchen – a vision she spent two years working on before changing the designs entirely.

“I knew what I wanted since day one and eventually I realised if I wanted it to be in line with my intention, I would need to be very involved with the designs. So I drew it on a pen and paper– and it’s turned out exactly how I wanted.”
 
“I want it to be a place where people can come relax and enjoy the space around them, whether they’re settling in for a long lunch or just grabbing a takeaway coffee. It’s bright and open, showcasing the local surroundings and creating a sense of calm. I’ve filled it with plants and light-coloured materials to give it a modern but beachy vibe, and I couldn’t be happier with how it worked out.”
 
The renovations went beyond aesthetics, with the whole kitchen undergoing an overhaul. The equipment was of the utmost importance and Tessa knew it would play an integral role in the venue’s success, which is where SilverChef came in.
 
“I think the café was previously let down by the equipment in the kitchen, and I knew if I wanted to deliver top-quality service and food I would need the best, most up-to-date equipment.”

“I didn’t want to cut corners because of cost or settle for second best, so being able to rent the equipment from SilverChef was a huge benefit. Having spent so much on the renovation, it was a relief not to have another huge upfront cost.”

“It also adds a lot of peace of mind knowing that quality equipment will last and grow with the business. When running a small business, being able to have that level of certainty is priceless.”
 
The new equipment and revamped look and feel has certainly paid off, with the often hard-to-please local community giving the café nothing but praise.
 
“At first I think the regulars were a bit hesitant because so much has changed, but the response has been overwhelmingly positive. It’s a great feeling knowing all that hard work has paid off.”