Founder's Message

A Taste of Home Away from Home

My name is Kelly Lei, owner of Gaa Café, a women-owned and culturally diverse coffee shop located in the Baymeadows area of Jacksonville. As a proud Duval County resident, I have spent years dreaming of a place where the flavors and traditions of Hong Kong culture can bring people together. With my life savings invested, Gaa Café is my way of creating a warm, welcoming space where community, culture, and connection meet — truly “a taste of home away from home.”

I moved to Jacksonville from Hong Kong in January 2017 for my husband’s work. In Hong Kong, I worked primarily in the non-profit sector with organizations such as the Certified General Accountants Association of Canada (Hong Kong), AFS Intercultural Programs Hong Kong, and the Federation of Medical Societies of Hong Kong. After relocating to Jacksonville, I continued my passion for serving others by working with the Jacksonville Housing Authority from March 2018 through March 2023 in Accounting, Finance, and Section 8 Housing.

It has always been my lifelong dream to own and operate a local café. While living in Jacksonville, I noticed the absence of Hong Kong–themed establishments, which inspired me to introduce the city to authentic Hong Kong snacks and a unique coffee experience.

I became a proud U.S. citizen in 2022, and this great country — and this great city — have given me the opportunity to pursue my dream as a female entrepreneur.

Kelly Lei