Daily Inspiration: Meet Mervat Gabrielle

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mervat Gabrielle.

Hi Mervat, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Mervat Gabrielle Kharoufeh, and I’m the proud owner of Papercup Coffee, a unique Middle Eastern–Italian café located in the heart of Santa Ana. I’m also a devoted mother to two incredible children, Edward and Tala, who have been my greatest motivation and source of strength who worked hard to make our dream come true and have been very creative in thinking about the future of our business. Without them it would have been difficult to achieve it.

Eight years ago, I immigrated to the United States with a dream — a dream that grew into a vision: to build something meaningful that reflects my love for coffee, culture, and community. Four years ago, I began shaping that vision, spending three tireless years developing ideas, designing concepts, and imagining a space that would be more than just a café.

In March 2024, that dream became a reality.

Papercup Coffee is where classic Italian flavors meet vibrant Middle Eastern flair. Every detail — from our premium espresso beans imported directly from Italy to our freshly made sandwiches, traditional Middle Eastern desserts — is crafted with passion, authenticity, and love. Many of our offerings, including gluten-free options, are my own original creations, inspired by both tradition and innovation.

Our goal isn’t just to serve great coffee and food — it’s to create a warm, welcoming experience that transports you across cultures. With a cozy ambiance and genuine hospitality, Papercup Coffee is more than just another café in Santa Ana — it’s a passport to the finest brews, freshest delicacies, and most heartfelt flavors in Orange County.Before immigrating to the United States, I built a strong foundation in hospitality and management, holding a degree in Travel Management and working in the field for many years. My entrepreneurial journey began in Nazareth, where I owned and operated Cake House Patisserie for five years—a beloved local business known for its quality and creativity.

Later, I transitioned into property management, where I gained three years of experience overseeing operations, tenant relations, and maintenance—all while sharpening my leadership and problem-solving skills.

After relocating to the U.S. as a mother of two young children, I faced numerous challenges, but giving up was never an option. My persistence, patience, and passion for what I do have always helped me stand out. Today, I am proud to have established a successful and reputable café, built from the ground up with integrity, hard work, and heart.

I’m known for my professionalism, unwavering determination, and ability to thrive under pressure. Every venture I take on reflects my belief in quality, community, and perseverance.

As we are close to celebrating two years since opening our cafe, we are deeply thankful for the continuous support, 5-star reviews, and positive feedback from our customers. Their Satisfaction inspires us to grow and serve even better!

And we’re just getting started.

We’re dreaming big, and we’re planning to expand with more locations in the near future — so stay tuned and come be part of our journey!

With gratitude,
Mervat Gabrielle Kharoufeh
Founder & Owner, Papercup Coffee

Edward Mukabel  Co-founder/ Owner

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It wasn’t easy — far from it. Starting a business with a very small budget and limited resources was a huge challenge. Banks refused to fund us, and many landlords turned us down because we were a first-time establishment. But despite all of that, I never gave up. I was convinced that I would make it happen. Today, I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished — overcoming every obstacle to create a successful café that our customers truly love and support. Their wonderful feedback reminds me every day that hard work, faith, and dedication can turn dreams into reality

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Before immigrating to the United States, I built a strong foundation in hospitality and management, holding a degree in Travel Management and working in the field for many years. My entrepreneurial journey began in Nazareth, where I owned and operated Cake House Patisserie for five years—a beloved local business known for its quality and creativity.

Later, I transitioned into property management, where I gained 4 years of experience overseeing operations, tenant relations, and maintenance—all while sharpening my leadership and problem-solving skills.

After relocating to the U.S. as a mother of two young children, I faced numerous challenges, but giving up was never an option. My persistence, patience, and passion for what I do have always helped me stand out. Today, I am proud to have established a successful and reputable café, built from the ground up with integrity, hard work, and heart.

I’m known for my professionalism, unwavering determination, and ability to thrive under pressure. Every venture I take on reflects my belief in quality, community, and perseverance.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory is when I used to climb trees, That was my favorite and enjoyable thing to do!

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.papercupcoffee.net
• Instagram: @drinkpapercupcoffee
• Yelp: Papercup Coffee Santa Ana

Image Credits
Credits to Edward Mukabel and Samer Qwaider photographers