My name is Abigail Cua, and I’m the owner of Aficionado Coffee Shop & Café. Writing this is not easy, but I believe in being honest and turning to our community when it truly matters.

Aficionado has always been more than just a coffee shop. It’s been a place to connect, to slow down, to share conversations, laughter, and comfort over a cup of coffee. We built this space with love, long hours, and a deep commitment to serving our community.

Right now, we are facing a very difficult season.

Due to rising costs of inventory, payroll, rent, and utilities—combined with slower business—we have fallen behind on our water and power bills. At this moment, we are $12,000 behind, and without help, keeping our lights on is at risk. The DWP is willing to even take half to keep it on so that we won’t be disconnected.

Asking for help is incredibly humbling. We’ve done everything we can to push through and stay afloat, but we’ve reached a point where we can’t do it alone anymore.

We are asking our community to help us raise funds to cover our overdue water and power bills so we can remain open and continue serving the place and people we love so much. Any amount—no matter how small—will make a meaningful difference. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser would mean the world to us.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your kindness, your support, and for believing in Aficionado Coffee Shop & Café. Your generosity helps keep this dream—and this space—alive.