Zocalo’s greenhouse reopens in McCauley
Bigger, brighter, and better than ever
When an act of arson forced McCauley’s treasured Zocalo greenhouse to shut down, it felt like a piece of summer itself was stolen from the neighborhood. Fourteen months later, the greenhouse is again bursting with blooms and community spirit.
With backgrounds in landscape and visual design, owners Ken Bregenser and Miranda Ringma chose to open Zocalo in McCauley, their home of 35 years.
“We looked at properties all around the city, but in the end, we chose to open in our backyard,” Ringma says.
In 2003, Zocalo opened as a café and gift shop before expanding into a greenhouse in 2012. Inspired by the Mexican concept of zócalo (a public square), the space has offered handmade pottery, fresh flowers, plant starters, and a meeting place for the community for over twenty years.
Following the fire in January 2024, quick thinking and collaboration with local entrepreneurs allowed Bregenser and Ringma to turn community support into a path forward. Today, their flower shop is operated by Love and Fantasy Flowers, while Aspen Coffee Roasters manages the fully licensed cafe.
“There’s a point where you have to consider what makes sense,” Ringma says, reflecting on the uncertainty of the transition and its challenges. “But in the end, we knew this is where we belong.”
Beyond structural improvements, notable changes include seating at the front of the greenhouse, where you can again enjoy your coffee with plants. Next is an expanded customer service desk to assist with repotting and general plant questions.
Current greenhouse and shop hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10 am - 6 pm, and Sunday, 10 am - 4 pm. Expanded hours are on the way as spring approaches, which Zocalo will announce along with upcoming events on their Instagram page.
Inventory is growing weekly, and with a grand opening party, Tulipmania, and new classes on the horizon, plant lovers have plenty to look forward to inside the rejuvenated space.
Good to hear.
I also see that there is a bicycle repair shop opening where Tony's Barbershop was (immediately south of the Zocalo greenhouse).
Great news! What is the street address? Look forward to visiting!