Several Bay Area counties have started permitting licensed home‑based "micro‑restaurants," letting chefs host ticketed backyard pop‑ups while staying under public‑health rules. New permits are giving cooks a low‑cost path into food businesses.

Bar Skula opened on Grand Avenue in early July, remixing Luka’s menu around oysters, ceviche and gin-forward drinks while tacking a 1% surcharge to feed neighbors.

Philz Coffee will open July 8 at The Village in Elk Grove, featuring a custom mural and seating for 27. The cafe opens early for commuters and shoppers.