Muddy Waters Coffee House, a beloved fixture in the Mission District for over three decades, is in the process of being sold to Marcos Senghor, the owner of Bissap Baobab.
Though a lease has yet to be signed, Senghor has ambitious plans for the café, which include introducing live entertainment, serving beer and wine, and extending operating hours.
This sale would mark a significant change for the café, as it would be the first time since its inception that Hisham and Elham Massarweh are not at the helm.
Senghor’s relationship with the Massarwehs is grounded in years of mentorship, having first met when he moved to the area as a newcomer. Senghor lived above the café and admired the Massarwehs, who provided guidance in his early days.
When he learned of the potential closure of Muddy Waters, Senghor felt compelled to act. He views the café not just as a business, but as an integral part of the Mission District’s cultural fabric.
“It’s almost like we’re coming back to the beginning,” Senghor stated, emphasizing his dedication to preserving the legacy of the café and expanding on it.
Senghor operates Bissap Baobab, which has been a cornerstone of the dining scene since 1998 and is recognized as a legacy business by the city. In contrast, Muddy Waters, which opened in 1990, has not achieved this designation despite its longstanding presence.
The Massarwehs initially attempted to sell the business over a year ago, listing it for $75,000 on Craigslist, citing the café’s popularity among locals and tourists and their desire to retire.
While Senghor did not disclose the current asking price, the Massarwehs have been engaged in negotiations with him and another partner.
Eileen Rinaldi, founder of Ritual Coffee and president of the Valencia Merchants Association, expressed optimism about the sale and Senghor’s plans for the café. She highlighted the importance of continuing the Massarwehs’ legacy while modernizing the establishment.
According to Senghor, the café will be rebranded as “Muddy Waters & Lounge,
image source from：missionlocal
