In a significant expansion of its operations, Neighbors Coffee has opened its first physical cafe in Rockville, Maryland, marking a new chapter for the brand. This establishment, nestled within the Woodley Gardens shopping center, occupies a 1,200-square-foot area that previously served as a local bank. The design aesthetic of the cafe is inviting, featuring warm hues of cream and yellow, complemented by abundant potted plants, creating a welcoming atmosphere for patrons. A distinctive natural wood bar, accented with earthy red tiles, houses a sophisticated 2-group Slayer Steam LP espresso machine, signaling the cafe's commitment to high-quality coffee preparation.

The cafe's commitment to exceptional coffee is evident in its selection of advanced brewing equipment and diverse coffee offerings. A sleek black-framed glass pastry case, filled with locally baked goods, stands alongside a towering Yama cold brew system, an array of black Mahlkönig grinders, and dual black Marco SP9 pour-over modules. These modules utilize UFO drippers to craft unique coffee experiences, such as a Colombian natural-process Wush Wush variety for hot pour-overs and a washed Pink Bourbon for flash brews. Spencer Trach, co-founder and head roaster, notes that these fruit-forward selections introduce the community to lighter roasts, broadening their coffee palates. The couple behind Neighbors Coffee, Spencer and Lulu Trach, initially launched their venture in January 2023 as an at-home roasting business with online sales, successfully transitioning to in-person sales at the Kentlands Farmers Market later that year. Despite challenging weather conditions, their presence at the market fostered a strong community connection, which they eagerly anticipate re-establishing once the cafe's operations are fully stable. Spencer currently roasts small batches of select Neighbors coffees using Aillio Bullet roasters within the cafe, skillfully managing long roasting sessions to meet demand. To supplement their in-house production and cater to the increasing demand for cold brew, espresso, and drip coffee, Neighbors Coffee collaborates with Kafiex Coffee from Vancouver, Washington, which also provides training and guidance for future capacity enhancements.

Looking ahead, Neighbors Coffee plans to significantly upgrade its roasting capabilities with the installation of a 15-kilo-capacity Geisen roaster at the front of the shop, pending permit approvals. This expansion, expected by year-end, will enable broader wholesale and retail distribution of whole beans. The cafe also intends to creatively repurpose the former bank's features, transforming the vault into a podcast studio and converting the drive-through window into a walk-up service point for to-go orders. The former drive-through space will be reimagined to offer additional patio seating and host outdoor events, further integrating the cafe into the community. Spencer Trach emphasizes his deep connection to the community where he grew up, highlighting the importance of delivering products, services, and a space that genuinely serves its needs. This thoughtful approach not only enriches the local area but also demonstrates how businesses can adapt and grow while staying true to their foundational values of community engagement and quality. The journey of Neighbors Coffee exemplifies the power of passion and dedication in building a thriving enterprise that contributes positively to its surroundings.