Many of you may have noticed that one of Valencia Town Center’s main destinations – Java ‘n Jazz – has changed its name – to Bella Via Barista Café. Actually, it’s more than a name change. Last May, local Santa Clarita business owner, Rick Espinosa, purchased the quintessential neighborhood coffee house.
That’s okay because Espinosa knows coffee. He began selling it here in the Valley in 1996, when he opened his very first drive-thru Coffee Kiosk and has been asked by Coffee Kiosk customers ever since, “when are you going to open a location where I can ‘sit down’ and enjoy my coffee?”
Twelve years and seven Coffee Kiosks later, Espinosa finally decided it was time to invite his loyal drive-thru customers to “stay awhile” in a welcoming atmosphere that featured the same great drinks and exceptional service they had come to expect from their drive-thru experiences.
Bella Via Barista Café underwent some design changes as well. Changes in the décor have taken place in an effort to transform the coffee house. Following a trip to Italy with his wife several years ago, Espinosa envisioned a true European style café. The artistry of the Italian baristas impressed him and he wanted to implement that same artistry in his new café.
The baristas who work at Bella Via Barista Café have been trained by four-time Western Regional Barista Champion, 2007 United States Barista Champion and the only U.S. two-time winner of the World Barista Championship, Heather Perry. Rick Espinosa knew it was important, not only to use the best coffee product available, but to provide world-class training for his baristas as well. Bella Via Barista Café will continue the tradition of excellent service that loyal Coffee Kiosks clients have come to appreciate.
In addition to the name change and interior make-over, the menu is expanding. It now includes made-to-order hot and cold paninis, fresh pastries and gourmet desserts. Table service has been added and live music will be featured on the weekends.
In addition to being a great cappuccino stop following a movie, Bella Via is striving to be a “date” destination for adults in Santa Clarita.
Stop in and see for yourself. Enjoy the food and drinks, watch the baristas at work, and you’ll understand why Rick Espinosa is excited about the future of Bella Via Barista Café and is looking forward to your visit.
Bella Via Barista Café is located in the Valencia Town Center on Town Center Drive. Operating hours are Monday through Thursday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 6 a.m. until midnight, Saturday from 7 a.m. until midnight, and on Sunday from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.
For more information, call 661-287-4500.