Bettina Cohen

Stories

Zocalo Coffee opens in Mission Bay pavilion 22 years after it was built

Advocacy succeeded; cafe now open

A glass-walled cafe on Mission Creek sat empty for 22 years after the city built it as a restaurant space. On Aug. 1, 2026, Zocalo Coffee opened inside, activating a waterfront pavilion that had been vacant since completion.

Updated Yesterday

Notable Quotes

"When we needed it, it was there for the community. And then suddenly, we couldn't use it anymore, and it was sitting empty most of the time." — to Mission Local

from Zocalo Coffee opens in Mission Bay pavilion 22 years after it was built · Updated Yesterday

"I don't think anyone should have to feel pressured into 'donating' for a little camaraderie." — to Mission Local

from Zocalo Coffee opens in Mission Bay pavilion 22 years after it was built · Updated Yesterday