Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company received the California State District 28 Business of the Year award on Friday, June 26. Assemblymember Gail Pellerin presented the framed certificate to founder Teri Hope and operations manager Dylan Phillips at the establishment. Phillips described the recognition as an honor, noting that the team prioritizes customer care and community support over seeking accolades.
The award comes as the business continues to navigate the aftermath of a vehicle collision last Thanksgiving. A speeding Volvo struck the bar section of the building, resulting in the death of the driver and significant structural damage. While the cafe side has reopened, the bar side remains boarded up. Hope founded the roastery more than 45 years ago, making it the longest-running coffee roaster in Silicon Valley.
Renovation efforts for the damaged section are currently pending. Local architect Gary Kohlsaat submitted repair plans to the town approximately 60 days ago. The proposed updates include new appliances and furniture, while the existing roaster will remain in place. Kohlsaat has a background in custom home design and Victorian restoration dating back to 1987.
Phillips noted that revenue has declined slightly due to the reduced capacity for live music events. The business previously utilized both the cafe and bar areas for performances on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Phillips expressed enthusiasm for reopening the bar side fully to restore the venue's previous scale.
The establishment recently installed an art exhibition featuring works by Rudy Rucker, a Los Gatos resident and former San Jose State University professor. Rucker is known for his contributions to the cyberpunk science fiction movement and his paintings. Hope mentioned that Rucker wrote some of his stories while visiting the cafe. The artwork is available for purchase.