In the heart of the Greenbridge community at 9901 8th Ave SW, a long-held dream has finally become a reality. Zoco Cafe and Wine, which recently celebrated its opening, is the result of years of planning between owners Amador Coyantes and his sister Silvia Camarillo.

The siblings, who are active members of the local Holy Family Catholic Church, chose this location near White Center specifically because of their deep connection to the neighborhood and its people.

A Wealth of Experience

The duo brings a formidable background to the table. Amador Coyantes has spent 30 years in the restaurant industry, working his way up from a dishwasher to prep cook, bartender, and now owner. His sister, Silvia, previously owned La Casa bella, an Italian restaurant in Federal Way, and has long collaborated with Amador on the vision for their own joint venture.

A Fusion of Flavors and Vibe

The menu at Zoco is a "fun" reflection of the owners' diverse culinary interests, featuring a blend of Italian, American, and Hispanic food.

Guests can find a wide range of options, from pasta dishes and burgers to an extensive brunch menu designed to meet the needs of the community. Prices are kept in a middle range, typically between $13 and $22, to ensure the cafe is accessible to neighbors with different budgets.

The interior of the 35-seat restaurant was a true family project, remodeled by the siblings and their relatives. The space features:

• Poured epoxy floors treated to look like marble.
• Varied seating options, including cozy booths and "two-top" tables that can be pushed together for large family parties.
• Low lighting designed to create a specific "vibe" for nighttime dining.
• A large TV for community gatherings during football games and the upcoming World Cup.

More Than Just a Meal

Zoco Cafe and Wine aims to be a full-service destination. In addition to their food menu, they offer espresso and plan to support the region by serving wine and spirits from local Washington wineries and distilleries. Servers like Nikki Macias and Paulie are on hand to provide what Amador calls the "full experience".

Looking Ahead

While the restaurant is already seeing a surge of "organic" walk-in traffic from supportive neighbors, the business is still growing. A company website is currently under development to allow for direct online ordering without third-party fees. In the meantime, the community can stay updated via their Instagram or by visiting during their operating hours. By the way they are open on Easter too.

Call them for takeout here: 206-566-6734

Brunch Highlights

The brunch menu is extensive and features a mix of sweet and savory options:

• Savory Specials:
  • Zoco's Special: Two eggs, fried chicken breast, fresh tomatoes, avocado, and a waffle.
  • Chilaquiles Verdes: Served with poblano pepper sauce, sour cream, cheese, two eggs, and a choice of protein.
  • Grilled Steak & Eggs: Featuring Angus Beef steak, two eggs, smashed potatoes, avocado, and toast.
  • Avocado Toast with Eggs: A gluten-free toast option topped with charred tomatoes, marinated red onions, and feta cheese.
• Sweet Selections:
  • Dulce de Leche French Toast: Brioche with dulce de leche and Mezcal sauce, corn, candied walnuts, and caramelized banana.
  • Fresh Berries Waffle: Topped with Greek yogurt, mixed berries, and breakfast granola.
  • Cinnamon Apple French Toast: Brioche dipped in house sauce with apples sautéed in cinnamon syrup and crème anglaise.

Lunch Highlights

The lunch offerings include appetizers, burgers, paninis, and pasta dishes:

• Burgers & Sandwiches:
  • Tropical Burger: Topped with bacon, cheddar, fresh tomato, and grilled pineapple.
  • Steak & Avocado Panini: Angus Beef steak with avocado, Jack cheese, caramelized onions, and poblano sauce.
  • Fried Chicken Sandwich: Crispy chicken drizzled with hot honey, served on a toasted brioche bun.
• Pasta & Entrees:
  • Zoco's Linguine Pasta: Creamy pasta with pan-seared chicken, crispy bacon, and white wine sauce.
  • Penne Chicken & Pesto Pasta: Includes sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, and a touch of cream.
  • Ribeye Steak: A 16oz grilled steak served with smashed potatoes and homemade chimichurri sauce.
• Appetizers: Classic Bruschetta, Truffle Garlic Fries, and Apple, Pear & Walnut Salad.

Beverages

Zoco offers a full range of non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks though at the moment in early April their liquor license is still pending.

• Coffee Classics: Espresso, Latte, Caramel Macchiato, Mocha, and Hot Chocolate.
• Frappes: Unique flavors like Frappe d' Mazapan (Peanut candy), Caramel and Pecan, and Oreo N' Cream.
• Juice & Soda: Fresh juices including Orange, Peach, and Pineapple, along with various soft drinks.
• Beer & Wine: A selection of bottled beers (like Guinness and Modelo) and local wines including Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay.

Cocktails

The cocktail list is diverse, featuring classic recipes and house specialties:

• Signature Margaritas & Mojitos: Cadillac Margarita, Mango Margarita, Blackberries Mojito, and Coconut Mojito.
• House Specialties:
  • Pomegranate Mezcal: 400 Conejos Mezcal, pomegranate juice, mint, and lime.
  • Espresso Martini: Vodka, Kahlúa, and espresso.
  • Pisco Sour: Pisco Quebranta, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and egg whites.
  • Passion Fruit Mai Tai: Captain Morgan rum, passion fruit syrup, orgeat, and lime.
• Classics: Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Cosmopolitan, and Classic Mimosa.

Operating Hours:

• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday - Wednesday: 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Thursday - Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Brunch and Dinner)
• Sunday: 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Follow them on Instagram here.