Casual restaurant ZCafe coming to South Coast

South Coast Plaza announced plans for healthy, casual dining concept ZCafe to debut at the shopping mall in midsummer, according to a news release.

Created by Sid Fanarof, the founder of ZPizza, the casual restaurant will focus on healthy and locally sourced menu items.

“We’re delighted to have Sid Fanarof create a new, fresh concept expressly for South Coast Plaza,” said Debra Gunn Downing, South Coast Plaza’s executive director, in a prepared statement. “Our shoppers will love to have a new dining spot for high quality, casual fare. Offering amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and phone charging stations will be appreciated by guests.”

The restaurant will open a 2,000-square-foot space and 1,200-square-foot patio on Level 3 at the west end of the Bridge of Gardens, according to the release.

The menu will offer salads, sandwiches, soups, pizza, desserts, organic coffee, tea and some alcoholic beverages.

—Sarah Peters