The Sacramento County Department of Airports is excited to announce that a new restaurant and cafe will open in Spring 2026 in the pre-security area of Terminal B at Sacramento International Airport (SMF). The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors has officially approved a 10-year Food & Beverage Concession Agreement with Local Flights LLC, allowing the remodel and full design process to begin. 

This pre-security location, which previously operated as Camden and Gateway Bar, closed in March 2020 and has remained vacant for nearly six years. Reopening this space became a key priority after completing a complete overhaul of the airport’s post-security concessions program, which will see 18 new dining options open between now and mid-2026. With construction of those new concepts now underway, SMF is able to turn its attention to revitalizing this important pre-security venue. 

“Reopening this space aligns perfectly with our commitment to supporting Sacramento businesses and enhancing the passenger experience,” said Cindy Nichol, Director of Airports. “Travelers have asked for more pre-security options, and bringing this location back with local owners at the helm will create a warm and welcoming experience for everyone who passes through SMF. Additionally, these small business owners bring our revamped concessions program to 47% small businesses, surpassing even our goals.” 

 "The new restaurant and cafe will offer a full bar, sit-down dining, convenient grab-and-go options, and the space will include a separate coffee shop. The menu will be created and guided by seasoned Sacramento chef Adam Pechal, former chef/owner of Tuli Bistro. True to form, chef Pechal will bring his flair for approachable local cuisine with a menu featuring upscale comfort food, signature pastas, and healthy yet interesting small plates. With a wide variety of options and price points, Local Flights will be the perfect place for travelers, employees or simply sharing a meal with friends and family on their way through Sacramento." 

Local Flights Brews and Bites is expected to become a comfortable, natural gathering place for travelers, employees, and reunited friends and family. The goal is to create a welcoming spot to enjoy a meal or drink whether you're arriving, departing, or simply spending time at the airport. 

Local Flights LLC is owned by Sacramento-area small business operators Edwin Balli and Andrea Ayala. The group also owns The Rio Pub in Rio Linda and brings strong community roots and hospitality experience to SMF. The Rio Pub was recognized in The Sacramento Bee’s 2025 Sacramento Favorites awards, earning first place for Bar Food, second place for Sports Bar, and third place for French Fries. 

"We are excited about what lies ahead, and this incredible opportunity to make accessible Sacramento's rich farm-to-fork landscape, celebrating locally-sourced ingredients, wine, beer, and spirits. The Rio Pub is ‘taking flight’ and we look forward to working closely with our partners at Sacramento International Airport to bring this new concept to travelers and our community alike!" 

Local Flights LLC shared their appreciation for the Sacramento Valley Small Business Development Center (SBDC), noting that SBDC played a critical role in connecting them to the opportunity. “Sac Valley SBDC was the primary conduit to this opportunity, and we worked closely with them from proposal to award,” said Edwin Balli. “There wasn’t a formal class — just a strong partnership and valuable guidance. We’re grateful for their support and excited to bring local hospitality to SMF.” 

This project is part of SMF’s comprehensive concessions refresh in both Terminal A and Terminal B — a multi-year effort to modernize dining and retail options across the airport. The refresh introduces more Sacramento-based restaurants, updated national brands, expanded grab-and-go choices, new coffee offerings, and redesigned spaces that create a more streamlined customer experience. Several new concepts have already opened, with more scheduled to debut throughout 2025 and 2026. For more information please visit:  https://flysmf.gov/new-concessions