Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with Four UH Businesses

University Heights is home to a diverse mix of local businesses, including several Latino-owned spots that have become part of the neighborhood’s identity. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, this guide introduces four of them, with details on their specialties and what to expect when you stop by.

El Zarape
4642 Park Blvd
(619) 692-1652
elzarapesandiego.com

For more than 20 years, El Zarape has been serving the fresh, bold flavors of Michoacán with a touch of Baja California influence.

Known for their surf and turf burrito, fish tacos, and California burritos, the restaurant also has a loyal following for its house salsas - especially the green one. Many team members have been with El Zarape for more than a decade, adding to the sense of familiarity and warmth. Founded to bring high-quality, affordable Mexican food to the neighborhood, El Zarape continues to focus on consistency, tradition, and genuine hospitality.

Mystic Mocha
2105 Mission Avenue
(619) 688-0858
@mysticmochacafe
mysticmocha.org

Home to the popular “John Wick” honey + lavender latte and hearty breakfast sandwiches like the Bacon Egg & Cheese Sando, Mystic Mocha is more than a coffee shop - it’s a community gathering place. Opened by its owner at just 26 years old, it has become a place for locals to work, relax, or connect. The atmosphere changes with the day’s mood, from indie tracks to reggaetón, and events like trivia nights, watch parties, and plans for a neighborhood run club make it a hub for community life as much as for coffee.

Yipao Coffee
4601 Park Blvd
(619) 760-6065
@yipaocoffee
yipao-coffee.com

Founded in 2018 by Colombian natives María and Jairo, Yipao Coffee is the neighborhood’s only specialty coffee roaster, sourcing 100% Colombian beans directly from small farms in regions like Tolima, Huila, and Nariño. Known for their pour-overs, Colombian mocha made with natural cacao, and nitro cold brew, Yipao roasts every batch in-house with precision and care, led by their certified Q Arabica Grader. Along with drinks, they offer coffee subscriptions, educational workshops, and community events, as well as wholesale beans for cafés and roasters. Yipao blends quality, authenticity, and connection in every cup.

Cecilia’s Fine Jewelry
4669 Park Blvd
(619) 297-7300
@ceciliasfinejewelry

Since opening in 2015, Cecilia’s Fine Jewelry has offered expert jewelry and watch repair, custom design services, and a selection of timeless pieces. Every project is handled with the same care and attention as if it were for a member of the family. Their custom design process uses CAD technology to refine every detail before crafting in 14k yellow or white gold, platinum, or with gemstones such as diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. Whether you’re restoring an heirloom or creating something entirely new, Cecilia’s delivers quality and craftsmanship meant to last a lifetime.