Catering to the community is what makes Cafe Sonder stand out as a top new business in Wagga.

The cafe has been named as a finalist in the Golden Crow Awards in the best new business category.

Owners Adil Khan and Tanya Hardwick opened the cafe, which will celebrate its birthday in July, two years ago.

“We met working in another local cafe, fell in love and years later decided to open our own,” Adil said.

Before they opened the doors they decided they wanted to do things differently to the other cafes in Wagga by providing a range of food specifically for intolerances and lifestyle choices like vegan or sugar free.

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“We wanted to address the need in the local community by doing things differently,” Tanya said.

“We’ve created a niche market while providing great customer service and, of course, excellent coffee.”

Being named as a finalist was a thrill for the couple.

“​It is very humbling to have this recognition and means a lot,” Adil said.

“The long hours and hard work are a labor of love, but it is great to be recognised for the work we put in.”

This is the first year Cafe Sonder has been a finalist in the Crow Awards with the entire process a great opportunity for any small business according to the pair.

“We would encourage other business owners to enter the Crow Awards as it encourages small business owners to critically reflect on their business and where they are heading,” Adil said.