A retro New York-style café and deli is brewing in Midtown Sacramento, reports the Sacramento Business Journal.
The Cappuccino Show is the passion project of business partners and friends Juanes Ramazzini and Freddy Cohan, who are transforming the former Woodard Ficetti Cleaners and Dryers building at 2201 J Street into a neighborhood gathering spot with the timeless charm of a black-and-white film.
Ramazzini—owner of local eateries Luccas and Bambina’s Pizza and Pasta—and Cohan, a principal at Monanich Design Firm, met through their mutual friend, the late restaurateur Chris Jarosz.
“Most of all, this is a tribute,” Cohan told What Now Sacramento. “To the people like Chris… who once dreamt this dream with us. Chris is no longer with us, but his spirit will live on in this café. His photo, along with those of many others who made a mark on this city, will hang on our walls with pride.”
A Sacramento native, 55-year-old Cohan grew up in Boulevard Park, just steps from the upcoming café. “For over three decades, a dream quietly brewed in the back of my mind,” he said. “A dream to create a place that slows down time, reconnects people, and reminds us of what really matters: community, comfort, and the joy of simply being together.”
By day, The Cappuccino Show will serve locally roasted coffee, handmade pastries, fresh salads, and stacked paninis on house-baked bread. At night, the venue will transform into a cozy wine bar with classic film screenings and other community events.
The design reflects the café’s nostalgic spirit, complete with handcrafted woodwork, a mahogany bar, decadent chandeliers, and vintage TVs looping footage of Frank Sinatra, Marvin Gaye, The Rat Pack, and other throwback icons.
Outside, guests can gather on a 400-square-foot patio lined with planters and umbrellas. Additional seating along 22nd Street will create space for movie nights under the trees, and a small stage may also be in the works for live music.
Once a month, the café will host The Cappuccino Show Live—a sit-down interview series spotlighting influential Sacramentans. “From vintage car shows to group bike rides, community runs to monthly celebrations, our dream is for this café to become a landmark where life happens,” explained Cohan.
The team is currently seeking city approvals to complete the buildout and hopes to welcome folks to The Cappuccino Show by November or December 2025.
