After a noticeable period of vacancy following the closure of The Coop, Mecatos Bakery & Cafe has its eyes set on bringing Colombian flavors to Winter Park. The cozy corner that once dished out Southern classics is soon to be filled with the aroma of freshly baked pan de bono and the rich notes of Colombian coffee. According to a report by Orlando Weekly, the cafe chain, founded by Edwin Lurduy in 2015, plans to open its new location in 2026.
Left empty since July 2023, when chef and restaurateur John Rivers decided not to renew his lease, the former location of The Coop cited "current market rates"; the space hasn't seen much action. But as reported by Orlando Shine, this is about to change with the introduction of Mecatos’ empanadas, buñuelos, and a variety of other South American delights.
The transition from fried chicken and biscuits to empanadas and buñuelos marks a shift in the culinary landscape of the area. Patrons of Mecatos can look forward to signature Colombian baked goods, hot bites, desserts, and fruit smoothies, offering a new cultural touchstone for the community. The coffee served at Mecatos, a point of pride for the establishment, is imported directly from Colombia and roasted locally at their own distribution center.
The question of whether the iconic red-barn facade of The Coop will be retained remains open. "Closing The Coop still makes me sad, but I am happy to see the space being reactivated. I wish Mecatos the best of luck there. It is a very special place," John Rivers sentimentally remarked in a statement obtained by Orlando Weekly, echoing the bittersweet nature of change and progress. In the meantime, Mecatos' fans can keep tabs on updates via their official Instagram account @mecatos as the opening approaches.
