Lugā Cafe & Kitchen, a new cafe concept from the owners of Galū Cafe & Delicatessen, is getting ready to open in San Diego at 4280 El Cajon Blvd.
The company’s second concept is set to move into the former home of El Borrego, according to San Diego Magazine. Owners Paulina and Alesio Marquez plan to open the cafe in Fall 2026, aiming for October. The new concept builds on their existing cafe while expanding both the menu and overall experience.
Paulina and Alesio Marquez are culinary professionals who previously worked at Juniper & Ivy and Finca Altozano. The couple opened Galū Cafe & Delicatessen in May 2024 in Chula Vista, funding the business with their personal savings, which they described as a leap of faith. The cafe focuses on coffee and deli-style offerings, with an emphasis on scratch-made items and locally sourced ingredients.
The new cafe’s name follows a similar approach, as both Galū and Lugā are named after the owners’ children. The City Heights location was selected in part due to fewer coffee shop options in the area compared to other San Diego neighborhoods. The new space will also include a larger indoor and outdoor seating area designed for a more sit-down experience.
The menu at Lugā Cafe & Kitchen will expand beyond the quicker offerings found at Galū. While the original cafe features items like avocado toast and croissant sandwiches, the new concept will introduce more substantial dishes such as egg plates, chilaquiles, and sandwiches with proteins including steak and fish.
For drinks, Lugā will offer a mix of traditional espresso drinks alongside more specialized options. Planned drinks include whisk-to-order matcha and specialty lattes such as crème brûlée and banana crème. The Marquez family views this second concept as part of a broader plan to continue growing their business, with a focus on bringing cafes to neighborhoods that have fewer options.
