by TR Robertson
Yes Vista, Black Bear Diner will be opening in Vista at a date to be announced later. In a phone interview with franchise owner Karan Gogri, this reporter was given an update on what has been going on for the past few months and what should be going on over the next few months. After some delays, beyond Karan’s control, funding issues have been resolved and work should begin again in the next 6-8 weeks in finishing the interior and landscaping projects at the diner, located at 605 W Vista Way in the former Coco’s location just off of Highway 78.
Black Bear Diner has 155 locations in 14 States across the U.S., including a very successful one operated by Karan on Fletcher Parkway in El Cajon. Interestingly, this location was also a former Coco’s Restaurant. Coco’s began closing restaurants throughout California in 2015 after having been in existence since 1948. The Black Bear Diner Company, headquartered in Redding, California, acquired the Coco’s Vista location in 2024. Black Bear Diner’s first location was in Shasta, California, opened by founders Bruce Dean and Bob Manley..
Karan said that crews will begin to appear at the diner beginning the final process of getting all permits required and installing all items to complete the project. This includes the windows currently boarded up on the west side of the restaurant. He said they will also begin the process again of reaching out to individuals that have filled out applications and they will begin going through the process of hiring cooks, waiters and waitresses and all other personnel needed for the opening.
When asked for an opening date projection, Karan said ideally they would like to open in November but to make sure everything is completed and approved, a first of the year opening is more realistic. Once a specific opening date is announced, this online paper will let everyone know when you can begin enjoying a great menu Black Bear Diner offers. You will begin to see activity at the location in the following weeks. In the meantime you can check out the other location on Fletcher Parkway to get a sample of what is offered.
