Photography by on January 14th, 2025 in Editorials

Matt McKenna, Founder & CEO

Oakland Park, FL – January 14, 2025 – Established in 2016, Miami’s first moto-inspired café, specialty coffee roaster, and lifestyle brand Imperial Moto is expanding with the opening of their newest location in Oakland Park.

“Imperial Moto started as a dream of mine after I exited my tech company, Red Fish Media, 15 years later,” shares Founder & CEO Matt Mckenna. “I wanted to create something meaningful—a destination that could fuel community and challenge the norms of the specialty coffee industry, especially here in Miami.”

Since the inception of their very first location/HQ in Little River, Imperial Moto has done just that: Redefine coffee shop vibes with a unique blend of edgy, motorcycle-inspired aesthetics and world-class coffee. At the shop, visitors can expect fine vintage motorcycles, biker-themed merch, and expertly roasted coffee, creating a space that’s as bold as it is inviting.

Now, Imperial Moto is expanding its Miami legacy with a new location in Oakland Park. The 1,400-square-foot space boasts plush seating, a sleek quartz bar, and signature design touches like a golden lightning bolt fixture and a royal blue Suzuki on display. Guests can enjoy premium, ethically sourced coffee alongside fresh empanadas while soaking in the shop’s distinct vibe.

“We take pride in pushing boundaries — From our commitment to ethically and sustainably sourced coffee, and crafting exceptional brews, to curating high-quality retail products, we aim to disrupt the typical café experience and bring something fresh and exciting to the table,” shares McKenna.

With future plans to further expand throughout the country and tap into markets abroad, Imperial Moto continues to rapidly grow, bringing along its unique charm everywhere it goes. “When you arrive at Imperial Moto, you can expect more than just a café—it’s an experience.”

WRE: Please tell us what is Imperial Moto?

Matt McKenna: Imperial Moto is a lifestyle brand built around the culture of coffee, motorcycles, and community.

Our cafes serve as hubs for riders and car enthusiasts to come together over great coffee, delicious food, and a shared passion for adventure. We also have a retail side that offers curated gear, apparel, and accessories that reflect the spirit of the ride.

Whether you’re stopping by for a quick espresso, enjoying our selection of locally sourced foods, or attending one of our events, Imperial Moto is all about celebrating the journey, not just the destination.

WRE: How did you create the concept?

MM: Imperial Moto started as a dream of mine after I exited my tech company (Red Fish Media) of 15 years. I wanted to create something meaningful—a destination that could fuel community and challenge the norms of the specialty coffee industry, especially here in Miami.

The idea was to blend my love for motorcycles, great coffee, and shared experiences into one unique concept. I wanted a space where people could connect over their passions, whether it’s bikes, design, or just a perfectly crafted cup of coffee.

It’s not just about serving coffee—it’s about creating an environment that inspires creativity, builds relationships, and disrupts the traditional café scene with something bold and exciting. Miami felt like the perfect place to bring this vision to life, and seeing it grow into a hub for community and culture has been incredible.

WRE: What can clients expect when they are at they arrive?

MM: When you arrive at Imperial Moto, you can expect more than just a café—it’s an experience. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be greeted by the hum of great conversations, the smell of freshly brewed coffee, and a vibe that’s both inviting and inspiring.

Our space is designed to be a hub for creativity and connection, where motorcycles, art, and culture come together. Whether you’re here to grab a quick espresso, meet friends over a meal, or check out our curated selection of gear and retail products, there’s something for everyone.

Expect exceptional coffee, a friendly community, and an atmosphere that fuels both adventure and relaxation. It’s a place where everyone—from moto enthusiasts to coffee lovers—feels right at home.

Matt McKenna, Samantha Mckenna, Carlos Zuluaga, Paula Leal, Nacho Londono, & Pablo Elizaga

Matt McKenna

WRE: Where did your passion in vintage motorcycles and coffee develop?

MM: As a kid, my brother and I were all about motorcycles—well, dirt bikes back then. We absolutely loved them. They gave us a sense of freedom, a way to explore, and an incredible bond we shared through our adventures.

That love for motorcycles has stuck with me, and now, having the chance to share that passion with the world through Imperial Moto is something truly special. It’s about more than just the bikes—it’s about the community, the connections, and the stories that come along for the ride.

My love for coffee has grown tremendously throughout my life. Today, I find the process of what makes coffee truly great to be especially fascinating. There’s so much bad coffee out there, and we aim to change that.

Through our cafes, retail products, and wholesale partners, we’re committed to raising the standard and sharing exceptional coffee experiences with the world.

Duphonic

WRE: What makes Imperial Moto different?

MM: We also take pride in pushing boundaries. From our commitment to ethically and sustainably sourced coffee, and crafting exceptional brews, to curating high-quality retail products, we aim to disrupt the typical café experience and bring something fresh and exciting to the table.

It’s about creating a lifestyle, not just a product. That’s what makes Imperial Moto different.

Matt McKenna & Roman Dryn

Matt McKenna

The idea was to blend my love for motorcycles, great coffee, and shared experiences into one unique concept. I wanted a space where people could connect over their passions, whether it’s bikes, design, or just a perfectly crafted cup of coffee.

Matt McKenna

WRE: How many locations do you currently have and what are the future expansion plans?

MM: We currently have locations in Little River Miami (our HQ), Aventura Mall, Oakland Park FL, and the island of St. Barth. We’re excited about the future as we plan to expand into other markets, including North Carolina, New York, Tennessee, and internationally in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

You can also find our coffee through select retail partners and we proudly work with wholesale clients who share our commitment to exceptional quality and sustainability.