There are limited options when it comes to food nearby the Fairfield campus. Besides Cafe Luma, the on-campus cafeteria, there are not many choices to select from.

There are some alternatives right off Rockville Road. Mexican food at Rancho Fino, snacks at the Power Market, and brunch at Rockville Kitchen + Bar are all options outside of the campus. The one place that holds the heart of many on campus is La Barista Espresso. 

La Barista has taken residence in Rockville since 1992 where it started as a yogurt and smoothie bar. In 2005, it became the essential cafe for the surrounding community when Lida Phuno bought it. During her 20-year reign as the owner, she emphasized warmth and community. Phuno was also known as the “Dragon Lady” because of her energy and her passion for the community. The affable nature of La Barista is due to her. 

“She knew everybody’s orders and she … would memorize exactly how you liked it and I knew I had big shoes to fill,” said Chankrisna Pen, or more familiarly Chris, Phuno’s nephew and successor in interest.  

Pen tries to emulate this warmth as the new owner of La Barista. He knows the importance of creating a safe environment for all who enter the front door. Curating a vibe and supporting the community is what he has aimed to do in his first year as owner and barista.

“I couldn’t be more empowered by the community,” Pen stated. “I tell them, my part-timers, you gotta hold on to that light, because the world is dark and dreary… and if we’re not that light to the world, it stops with us, so … do good and good will come on to you.” 

The community that frequents La Barista is quite diverse as well. Firefighters, college students, families, and wine connoisseurs are all patrons of the cafe. Some even become beloved regulars who help keep the business afloat. 

Pen emphasized the love and importance of regulars in the cafe. “I pretty much took it upon myself to memorize all their orders, just like, listen. And more or less, I think … I’ve gotten everybody’s orders down, which of those who still come.” 

Appreciation for all regulars is apparent but there is also love for those who stop by just once. Internet virality affected the cafe positively in late December and even if the boost wore away, La Barista is still content. 

As for the future of the cafe, Pen wants to focus on growth while maintaining the close-knit community that already exists. Continuing the feel of the mom and pop shop, while not having to work behind the counter every day is Pen’s goal. 

“The vision of La Barista is definitely to continue to do what it’s doing now, which is to be a safe space for everybody.” For La Barista, community will always come first, no matter what the future holds. Having a comfortable environment where anybody can stay as long as they like is the main goal of La Barista Espresso.