Chisme
Hospitality
Branding
Web design
Marketing
San Francisco
2017
Chisme Cantina is a counter-service restaurant in San Francisco specializing in gluten-free, meat, fish, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly tacos and sides. Inspired by the neighborhood buzz ("chisme" means gossip in Spanish), the restaurant aimed to create a vibrant and welcoming space that reflects the diversity of its menu and community.
Summary
Overview
KAKE worked with Chisme Cantina for a 12-month period to develop a bold and youthful brand identity. Our scope included designing the visual identity, interior design elements, and kitchen menu to create a cohesive and inviting experience that resonated with their diverse customer base.
Challenge
The biggest challenge was establishing a strong, recognizable brand in San Francisco’s competitive restaurant scene while maintaining authenticity and approachability. The identity needed to reflect the restaurant’s inclusive menu and lively atmosphere without feeling overly trendy or gimmicky.
Solution
We developed a vibrant color palette of pink, green, and blue, paired with hand-drawn fonts, logos, and icons. The interior design carries this aesthetic with abundant greenery, wood details, and a chalkboard menu, while a custom honey bear mural by Fnnch adds a local artistic touch.
Community and Engagement - Long communal tables and an inclusive menu encourage shared dining, embracing the diverse Lower Nob Hill neighborhood. Local artist collaborations and a grand opening aligned with the neighborhood art walk helped establish a strong community connection.
Results - Now celebrating seven years in business, Chisme Cantina has built a loyal customer base and expanded into delivery and catering, solidifying its place in San Francisco’s food scene.
Challenge
Solutions