This April, we’re highlighting LaJoy’s Coffee Café—a hub for comfort, conversation, and a signature coffee blend you won’t find anywhere else. Located in Parkside Café in the Schnuck Pavilion, LaJoy’s is a home away from home for everyone on Danforth Campus.
Nestled within the bustling Parkside Cafe on the Washington University campus, LaJoy’s Cafe is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for students seeking more than just a caffeine fix. LaJoy’s is not your average campus coffee spot — it’s where students, staff and faculty from all walks of life can come together, recharge and feel at home.
Born out of the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, LaJoy’s Cafe was created with one goal in mind: to build a space where people can connect over great coffee and feel like part of a bigger family.
“I was driven by my passion for community to craft a sanctuary to provide products and services with love and compassion,” says LaJoy.
A Vision Fueled by Community
LaJoy, the entrepreneurial mastermind behind the cafe, knows the power of a shared space. With a background in transportation and home healthcare, she’s always been focused on building connections. When the pandemic hit, LaJoy saw firsthand how isolation was affecting people. That’s when the idea for LaJoy’s Cafe was born.
Opened in 2021, LaJoy’s started as a simple concept: a cozy neighborhood snack shop in Overland, Missouri, not far from WashU. But when the opportunity to expand to Parkside Cafe presented itself, LaJoy’s vision evolved.
One location expanded to two, and the business started providing the Danforth Campus with a full-service café where students could find great coffee and a sense of belonging. Whether you go to grab a bite between classes or because you look forward to the welcoming spirit of the cafe, LaJoy’s is designed to be your home away from home.
“I talk to a lot of students who miss their parents. They come and talk to me about classes and feel at home, like they have some family here,” says LaJoy. “That’s what I really enjoy about being at WashU, because there are a lot of students who are far away from their families, and that’s hard, so I try to give that loving touch to everyone.”
A Menu Built for Busy Students
LaJoy’s knows that college life can be fast-paced, so the cafe offers a variety of healthy, quick options to fuel your busiest days.
From smoothies and lemonades to fresh sandwiches and salads, the menu is designed to satisfy students looking for something quick and nourishing. Whether you’re on the go or have time to sit down and enjoy a meal, LaJoy’s has a menu that meets your needs.
The real star of the show is LaJoy’s signature coffee. After months of perfecting her blend, LaJoy created a coffee you won’t find anywhere else. Featuring a subtle hint of tea, this proprietary brew is designed to be enjoyed hot or cold, with no cream or sugar required. It’s a coffee experience unlike any other — smooth, flavorful, and crafted with care.
Building Connections Beyond the Counter
LaJoy’s is more than just a place to grab coffee. It’s a place to connect with others. Both LaJoy’s locations foster an environment that makes it easy to build relationships or find a bit of peace.
“The goal is to create a space where students feel like they belong,” says LaJoy. “It’s not just about serving coffee. It’s about community.”
The cafe’s friendly, personalized service has earned it a loyal following, and it’s no surprise why. LaJoy’s isn’t just about serving a product; it’s about fostering connections and making every customer feel part of the family.
Building Connections Beyond the Counter
LaJoy’s is more than just a place to grab coffee. It’s a place to connect with others. Both LaJoy’s locations foster an environment that makes it easy to build relationships or find a bit of peace.
“The goal is to create a space where students feel like they belong,” says LaJoy. “It’s not just about serving coffee. It’s about community.”
The cafe’s friendly, personalized service has earned it a loyal following, and it’s no surprise why. LaJoy’s isn’t just about serving a product; it’s about fostering connections and making every customer feel part of the family.
Visit LaJoy’s Cafe to experience the latest menu updates.