BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Dagny’s celebrates 30 years of keeping the community caffeinated. The Bakersfield staple opened its doors in 1996 and has been fueling customers through coffee, food and a sense of community ever since.
Dagny’s has seen four owners over its 30-year history. First with Karen Holman, then Monica Mungary and Daniel Watt in 2004. Soon after, the late Kelly Haines and Shannon Uribe bought the business. Then Mike and Jacqlynn Walters owned the business for over 10 years before the fourth and current owner, Annie Florendo, was given the opportunity.
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Coincidentally, Florendo moved to Bakersfield to attend CSUB in 1996, the year Dagny’s opened. After working and traveling for a few years, Florendo sought out community. And she found it through Dagny’s.
“It is a unique little spot. And it’s always caught my attention,” Florendo said. “Then when I had the opportunity to buy it, it just clicked, where I was like oh I think I can find community here. And that’s what it’s done for me. Part of my approach, and I think it’s true of all the previous owners, is that we want to maintain the integrity of the history of the building.”
Other than the additional concessions and upkeep the owners have made to the building throughout the years, not much has changed in aesthetics or ambiance. When Dagny’s opened its doors, Felix Adamo and his coworkers at The Bakersfield Californian came in every day to work and chat. As a photographer, Adamo has attended countless coffee meetings and musical events, documenting them through the years. Adamo no longer works for The Californian, but he keeps coming back for a consistent cup of joe and familiar faces.
“It hasn’t really changed that much,” Adamo said. “Kinda looks the same as it always did.”
Dagny’s is known as a calming place to work, get creative and find community. On a weekday morning, you’ll sit next to a business meeting, an individual writing poetry and baristas greeting their favorite regulars.
“Since I purchased Dagny’s in 2018, sales have increased. So I believe what the city is doing is having an impact. And that’s wonderful for small business,” Florendo said, reflecting on the importance of the Bakersfield community.
Florendo introduced me to regular Matthew Hodges, who owes Dagny’s for some of his favorite memories.
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“I’ve been coming here for 28 years, you know, I used to come down here with my dad all the time and do crossword puzzles. One of the gentlemen that just walked out, he actually married me and my wife. (Dagny’s) is a part of the community.”
From 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., those celebrating can find the party in the parking lot next to Dagny’s. The event features live music by Bad Modem, local food trucks and, of course, drinks.
“Come out and celebrate with us,” Florendo said.
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