Barista Blues Café Marks 20 Years in Downtown Battle Creek

Barista Blues Café, a cherished fixture in downtown Battle Creek, recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of serving the community with homestyle Italian-inspired dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.

Co-owners Maryann and her daughter Kelly Vassallo have been the heart and soul of the café since its inception. Their dedication to creating a space that feels like home has fostered a loyal customer base. Regular patrons, like Victor, often express their affection. "It's better now that I've seen you," he remarked during a recent visit. "Always make my day."

On May 7, the café commemorated its milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce. After the ribbon was cut, Maryann warmly invited attendees inside to enjoy a selection of soups, salads, sandwiches, quiches, muffins, and, of course, coffee. "It's been an amazing journey," she shared. "Our customers are more like family."

Originally from New York, Maryann relocated to Battle Creek in the 1990s, bringing with her a passion for authentic Italian cuisine. With the support of her family, including eldest daughter Kelly, she ventured into the restaurant business, aiming to create a café reminiscent of Greenwich Village. The café found its permanent home at 91 W. Michigan Ave. in 2011, featuring a large mural depicting an Italian vista and a quote at the register: "Nonostante Tutto Prosperiamo"—"In spite of everything, we prosper."

The Vassallos' commitment to quality and community has been unwavering. "The community has been unwavering with their support," Maryann noted. "It's a little town, but the people are awesome."

As downtown Battle Creek experiences a resurgence, with projects like the renovation of the historic Anson Hotel into a mixed-use development and the establishment of the Battle Creek Innovation Hub, Barista Blues Café stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of local businesses. The café's success story is intertwined with the city's growth, reflecting a shared commitment to revitalization and community engagement.

Looking ahead, Maryann and Kelly remain dedicated to their vision. "We envisioned a place where people could come in, relax, and have a good time, just like if you were coming into our house to have lunch with us," Maryann said. "And by the grace of God, I think that's what we've done."

As Barista Blues Café celebrates this significant milestone, it continues to be a beloved gathering spot, embodying the warmth and resilience of downtown Battle Creek.