Meet the Vendors of the Downtown Arlington Farmers Market: Part 3

Every Saturday, the Downtown Arlington Farmers Market comes alive with the sights, sounds and flavors of our community with fresh food and handmade goods. Behind each booth is a story of tradition carried through generations, of hobbies that blossomed into passions, and of creativity that connects neighbors in unexpected ways. 

Casa Volcán Coffee Co.: Brewing community one cup at a time 

For the husband-and-wife duo behind Casa Volcán Coffee Co., coffee has always been about more than caffeine. 

The business was inspired by the owners' Salvadoran and Mexican heritage, where coffee has long been intertwined with family, hospitality and gathering around the table. As they learned more about specialty coffee, what started as curiosity quickly became a calling. 

"We wanted to create a space where people could experience exceptional coffee while learning more about the people and places behind it," Genesis and David shared. 

That vision became Casa Volcán Coffee Co., a name that reflects both the volcanic soil where many of Latin America's coffees are grown and the feeling of home that comes with sharing a cup of coffee. 

Every bag they roast emphasizes freshness, quality and traceability. Unlike many store-bought coffees that can sit on shelves for months, Casa Volcán roasts in small batches to highlight each bean's unique character. They source specialty-grade coffees primarily from Latin America, honoring the farmers and communities behind every harvest. 

If you're visiting their booth for the first time, don't miss their signature Volcán Sunrise roast. The Colombian coffee features notes of honey and mango, creating what they describe as "a smooth, vibrant, and approachable cup." It's also one of the coffees they most enjoy brewing for themselves. 

The Downtown Arlington Farmers Market has helped them build lasting relationships within the community. 

"There's something special about seeing familiar faces return each week and getting to share our passion with people who are curious about coffee," they said. 

At its heart, Casa Volcán remains focused on the same mission that inspired its founding: honoring its roots while creating meaningful connections through coffee. 

"As we grow, our goal is to remain focused on quality, education, and community while creating memorable coffee experiences for our customers." 

La Barkeria: Baking healthier treats for every best friend 

For Suzanne Adkisson, owner and CEO of La Barkeria LLC, the business began with one very special dog. 

Her beloved dog, Libbey, experienced multiple seizures, leading Suzanne to reevaluate everything her pet was eating. While searching for healthier treats nearly a decade ago, she realized there were few artisan options available. 

"So, La Barkeria was established with the goal of promoting a healthier lifestyle for Libbey." 

Today, every treat is made with human-grade ingredients because, as Suzanne explains, "our dogs are cherished members of our families." 

That commitment to quality influences every product they create. New recipes often begin with conversations at the market, when customers ask for treats that address specific dietary needs or health concerns. Those ideas eventually become new products after careful recipe development and state approval. 

For first-time visitors, Suzanne recommends starting with the Cow Heart Jerky, which she says is "a great intro to what we do." It's especially popular for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies, though the Brisket Cookie remains another customer favorite. 

Running a dog bakery isn't quite as glamorous as some might imagine. Suzanne spends at least three nights each week baking overnight before dedicating another full day to preparing for weekend markets. 

Since joining the Downtown Arlington Farmers Market from the very beginning, La Barkeria has become a familiar stop for pet owners throughout the community. 

"The Arlington community is truly remarkable," Suzanne said. "Having been involved with the market since its inception, we take great pride in the community that is being fostered and feel a sense of responsibility to contribute to its continued development." 

Whether helping puppies grow alongside their families or developing nutritional strategies after difficult veterinary diagnoses, those moments continue to remind Suzanne why she started La Barkeria in the first place. 

Sokah Food Truck: Bringing the flavors of Trinidad and Tobago to Arlington 

Every meal served at Sokah Food Truck tells the story of two cultures coming together. 

The business was founded by husband and wife Johnny and Aurora Blackman with roots in Singapore, Trinidad and Tobago. 

"We eventually settled in Texas and realized there were very few places where people could experience authentic Trinidadian cuisine. We wanted to change that by bringing our family's recipes and Caribbean hospitality to our community." 

Even the truck's name celebrates its heritage. Sokah takes its name from the energetic Caribbean music genre Soca, creating an experience where bold flavors and joyful hospitality come together. 

If you're trying their menu for the first time, they recommend ordering the Curry Roti or Doubles — two of Trinidad's most beloved street foods. 

Their menu reflects generations of family recipes made with Caribbean curry blends, Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, thyme and cilantro (also known as chadon beni). Rather than rushing the cooking process, every dish is carefully prepared to develop layers of flavor over time. 

Since joining the Downtown Arlington Farmers Market, they've loved watching customers discover Caribbean cuisine for the first time. 

"We love seeing people become curious about Caribbean food and watching them discover flavors they've never experienced before," they said. 

Some visitors even make the drive from Dallas specifically to find their truck, while Caribbean customers often share an even more meaningful compliment. 

"We've also had many Caribbean customers tell us our food reminds them of home, and hearing those words is one of the greatest compliments we could ever receive." 

Like so many vendors at the Downtown Arlington Farmers Market, they believe supporting local businesses strengthens the entire community. 

"The Downtown Arlington Farmers Market gives small businesses like ours the opportunity to connect directly with customers, build relationships, and showcase cultures from around the world. We're proud to be part of a market that celebrates local entrepreneurs and brings the community together every weekend." 

Whether you're discovering a new favorite coffee, picking up wholesome treats for your pup or trying authentic Trinidadian cuisine for the first time, these vendors represent what makes the Downtown Arlington Farmers Market special: passionate entrepreneurs who are eager to share their stories with the community. 

Come meet them and dozens of other local makers, growers and artisans every Saturday at the Downtown Arlington Farmers Market. You never know what story you'll discover next.