The much-anticipated Bopomofo Cafe is slated for its grand opening in San Diego this coming Saturday, July 27, already causing a stir among local foodies and fans of Asian-American fusion fare. The cafe, which previously teased its flavors with a sneak preview back in June, is quietly operating in Kearny Mesa as it preps for a full-scale launch from noon to 7 p.m. this Saturday. According to San Diego Eater, the new outlet is in the off-Convoy complex, a culinary hotspot home to establishments like Sunmerry Bakery and Kitakata Ramen Ban Nai.

As traffic is expected to swell, particularly with the Comic-Con crowd in town, Bopomofo has arranged a special reservation system to manage the rush. Their priority reservation list has already reached capacity, but walk-ins are welcomed for those willing to queue. According to Bopomofo Cafe, the company expressed its eagerness and encouraged visitors to reserve a spot ahead of time to streamline their experience. Co-founders Eric Wang and Phillip Wang, the latter a UCSD alum, are expected to be present for the festivities.

The venue is known for its eclectic drinks and eats that blend Chinese, Taiwanese, and American influences. It serves creations like strawberry basil, ginger lemonade, coffee milk tea, and carrot matcha lattes. Seasonal items, like watermelon oat milk, are also on tap to refresh patrons in the summer heat. Food options range from a honey walnut shrimp burger to the unique Hainan chicken taco, which snagged the title of one of LA’s most creative tacos, per San Diego Eater.

Excitement for the grand opening has been buzzing on social media, with Bopomofo hinting at a possible appearance by singer-songwriter AJ Rafael. "Super grateful for all the excitement surrounding our San Diego grand opening date announcement! 7/27," the Bopomofo Cafe posted on Instagram. Photos from the cafe's Open House event on June 19th might feature some potential customers, inviting them to find themselves in the gallery linked in their bio.