Union Square's Capital One Cafe has for years been a hub for midday meetings and freelance workers looking for a place to caffeinate with free wifi in a central locale.
Now, after a month-long renovation, the light-filled Post Street space has reopened to the masses, celebrating this past week with a grand re-opening complete with DJ beats, an acai bowl station, a photo booth, and more interactive fun.
(Photography by Brendan Mansfield)
Spin the wheel, get Capital One swag.
The revamped street-level lobby invites you in with fresh communal office space, including reservable meeting rooms and various nooks that are open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis. Student organizations and nonprofits can even book the conference rooms free of charge.
Speaking of pennies, all Capital One cardholders get 50 percent off any coffee drink at the on-site Peet's; and it couldn't be any easier to redeem that discount. Simply swipe your Capital One credit or debit card at checkout, and the savings will automatically be applied.
Cafe Coach Jackie Ng is also pretty excited about the interior renovations: "I actually moved back from Boston to help spearhead the redesigned Capital One Cafe," she says. "We've done a host of changes to make the space even more inviting for everyone to come in, have a cup of Peet's Coffee, and find a comfortable corner to work or just relax." (The plush red booths on the mezzanine are prime spots to enjoy a cup of French roast.)
"I'm thrilled to see one of our oldest and most highly trafficked cafes get a much deserved makeover," adds Devin Short, senior creative manager for retail experience and design. "This location has many unique elements in terms of its layout and configuration. It's validating to see our design standards adapt to a space like this and deliver a Capital One Cafe experience that feels like our others."
The cafes are designed to reimagine the traditional banking experience, so not only can you get your anytime caffeine fix and a bit of work done, you can also score some financial advice.
"The updated space allows anyone to visit and also to access Capital One product support or create a personalized action plan to better connect your life and money goals from an available Money Coach," says Capital One West Coast Engage Lead Michael Krajanowski. "The SF cafe has been part of the city and community for 10 years, and has many more good years ahead."
Each Capital One Cafe strives to be a part of the deep, interconnected fabric of the community by partnering with local small businesses to provide pastries and make space for community events. The San Francisco cafe also partners with Dress for Success, hosting Money Coaching and Money Workshops for the nonprofit's beneficiaries when they enter the professional world.
Swing by for a cappuccino and attend one of the cafe's free money workshops, like the Love Your Financial Self seminar on November 12th.
// Capital One Cafe, 101 Post St. (Union Square); capitalone.com/local.
