Local People: Jessica Sarinana and the Story of Urbano Bar and Bistro

SIERRA VISTA, Ariz. (SVL) ––What began as a leap of faith and a second chance has become one of Sierra Vista’s most beloved gathering places. Urbano Bar and Bistro, owned by Jessica Sarinana and her husband Ricardo, opened its doors in 2015 and has since grown into a hub for coffee lovers, foodies, visitors, and residents.

Before opening Urbano, the couple owned a landscaping and cleaning business and eventually began seeking something different. The couple wanted to bring a new, community-centered space to Sierra Vista. “We wanted a fresh start,” Sarinana said. “Something we could build together that felt more creative, more inspiring, and more connected to the community."

That new chapter began with a roasting machine purchased from John Murphy, who had previously operated the space as Brews Brothers Coffee beginning in 2007. Reimagining the venue, they launched Urbano with a simple mission: to bring warmth, quality, and connection.

“There was no manual or roadmap,” Sarinana said. “Just passion, faith, and the desire to bring something fresh and inviting to Sierra Vista.” As you pass by Urbano, you may notice smoke rising from the vent on the roof. That smoke has often led to the fire department getting called when people driving by mistake it for the building on fire. However, once you smell it, you immediately know it's just Ricardo roasting coffee.

A decade later, Sarinana said the business’s biggest accomplishment isn't the coffee, it's resilience. “We’re proud that we’re still here,” she said. “We made it through COVID, through losing incredible employees, through personal health struggles, and through the challenge of buying and rebuilding our own location. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s made us stronger and more determined.”

Urbano has earned a loyal following for both its in-house roasted coffee and homemade food. They offer wholesale and subscription plans for a variety of roasted beans. The bistro also features draft and canned beer along with a cocktail and mocktail menu with new drinks.

Sarinana believes the real difference is in the culture they’ve cultivated. “What sets us apart is the heart behind everything we do,” she said. “We love our customers like family. We love our team like family. And we take pride in creating a space where people feel welcome, seen, and at home.”

One team member who exemplifies that spirit is Chef Hudson Patten. “He’s the backbone of Urbano,” Sarinana said. “His reliability, passion, and creativity in the kitchen make him truly irreplaceable.”

Urbano regularly hosts a variety of events, including monthly open mic nights with Cochise College, stargazing evenings, and themed nights for singles, couples, and families. The space includes areas for teens, young children, and a patio to bring along your furry friends.

Through their sister venue, The Onyx Grounds, the Sarinanas also organize community festivals, live concerts, EDM nights, and cultural dance events.

“We’ve always wanted this to be a space for everyone,” Sarinana said. “Whether you’re here for a quiet cup of coffee or a night of dancing, there’s something for you.”

• Urbano will host a free family stargazing night Thursday, June 26, welcoming the community to enjoy an evening under the stars hosted by Huachuca Astronomy Club from 8:00pm to 10:00pm. You can bring your own telescope, or view the sky through the ones provided by the club members.

• If you're looking to spice up your weekend, check out Around the World Cuisine Date Night, featuring a culinary trip to Jamaica this Sunday, June 29, from 5–7 p.m. You and your soulmate can enjoy island-inspired flavors without buying a plane ticket. Reservations are available online.

For those considering launching their own business, Sarinana offers this advice,

“Don’t let fear stop you. Starting a business isn’t easy, but if you build with love, intention, and a willingness to work hard, the rewards are worth it. We’ve poured our hearts into Urbano, and we hope that everyone who walks through our doors can feel that.”

As a thank-you to customers, Urbano is offering 10% off your purchase now through July 31 for those who show this special feature. The offer is valid for one-time use and cannot be combined with other discounts.

Urbano is located just north of the Camino Principal and Yaqui intersection at

4711 S Highway 92, Sierra Vista, AZ

Website: UrbanobarBistro.com

Hours:

Tuesdays- Saturday 9am-2pm and 5pm-9pm

Sunday 10am-2pm