Nestled in the heart of downtown Wichita, Kansas, Adelitas Coffee Co. stands as a testament to perseverance and passion. Oscar Pineda, a seasoned roaster and father of five daughters, has drawn inspiration from the storied women warriors of the Mexican Revolution, known as Las Adelitas. Since launching Esperanza Coffee Roasters in 2021, Pineda and his family have expanded their vision with the opening of a café in 2023, doubling its size in 2024, and establishing a new roastery. Now operating under the unified name Adelitas Coffee Co., the business emphasizes single-origin coffees, particularly those sourced from Mexico, while celebrating Mexican-Latino heritage through its offerings. This enterprise not only serves specialty coffee but also educates customers about its cultural significance.

Inspired by the revolutionary spirit of Las Adelitas, Oscar Pineda's journey into the world of specialty coffee began with humble beginnings. Born in Michoacán and raised in the United States, Pineda’s career trajectory started at Roaster Joe’s, where he worked various roles before ascending to roast master over a decade. Later, at Reverie Coffee Roasters, he honed his skills further, eventually leading to the establishment of Esperanza Coffee Roasters. His motivation was rooted in creating a legacy for his family and underserved communities, offering them a unique gathering spot that connects them with their roots through coffee.

The Adelitas Coffee Co. downtown café spans approximately 1,300 square feet, featuring state-of-the-art equipment such as La Marzocco espresso machines and Wilbur Curtis brewers. The menu reflects the family's Mexican-Latino heritage, offering drinks like horchata lattes and mazapán lattes. Pineda emphasizes the importance of educating patrons about coffee origins and the people behind its production. With the recent opening of a 600-square-foot roastery and tasting room, Pineda envisions fostering community engagement through events and professional training programs.

Pineda acknowledges the challenges posed by neighboring large coffee chains but remains committed to enlightening the community about the significance of supporting businesses like his, which directly benefit the coffee-growing communities they partner with. The mural adorning the downtown shop symbolizes the revolutionary impact coffee has had on Pineda's life, bringing him opportunities he never imagined possible as an immigrant and Dreamer.

Beyond serving exceptional coffee, Adelitas Coffee Co. embodies a mission to educate and inspire. By weaving together the threads of culture, tradition, and innovation, Oscar Pineda and his family have created a vibrant hub that resonates with both local and global communities. Their efforts underscore the transformative power of coffee, proving that it can be more than just a beverage—it can be a catalyst for change and connection.