The former Denny’s location on Harbor Boulevard in Ventura’s Pierpont neighborhood may not stay vacant much longer.
Makenna Koffee is being proposed for the site and is now officially moving through the City of Ventura’s development approval process, starting with the Design Review Committee.
While still early, this project is already generating interest because of what it could bring to the area and how it differs from a traditional coffee shop.
What is Makenna Koffee?
Makenna Koffee is a high-energy, quick-service coffee concept.
Instead of a traditional sit-down café, this would likely operate more like a drive-thru focused coffee shop, similar in style to brands like Dutch Bros. The menu leans heavily toward:
- Flavored lattes (coconut, macadamia nut, lavender, white chocolate)
- Specialty espresso drinks with multiple shots
- Energy drinks with custom flavor combinations
- Quick, grab-and-go service
This type of concept typically prioritizes speed, convenience, and volume, which could make it a unique addition to the Pierpont and Harbor Blvd corridor.
Current Status: Design Review Committee Feedback
The project recently went before Ventura’s Design Review Committee (DRC), which is an early step in the city’s approval process.
At this stage, the project was not approved, and the committee has requested several revisions before it can move forward.
The applicant is expected to return on May 6th with updated plans.
Key Issues Raised by the City
The Design Review Committee provided detailed feedback focused on site design, safety, and overall project compatibility with the area.
1. Pedestrian Access and Circulation
The city is asking the applicant to take a closer look at how people will safely access the site on foot.
This includes:
- Improving the current pedestrian pathway
- Potentially adding a second access point
- Ensuring safe movement between sidewalks, parking areas, and the building
2. Drive-Thru and Parking Layout
Given the likely high-volume nature of the business, the committee wants a re-evaluation of the vehicular layout, including:
- Condensing the parking and drive areas where possible
- Improving overall traffic flow
- Potentially pushing the building further back from Harbor Boulevard
This is a key point, as Harbor Blvd is a heavily traveled corridor, and site circulation will be critical.
3. Landscaping and Tree Placement
The committee also focused on improving the landscaping plan, specifically:
- Increasing the overall tree canopy, especially in the rear of the property
- Replacing certain tree species that may not be ideal for the site
- Relocating or removing trees that could interfere with visibility near driveways and crosswalks
These changes are aimed at both aesthetics and safety.
4. Bird Deterrence Strategy (No Spikes)
An interesting detail raised during the meeting was how the project will handle birds on-site.
The committee specifically requested:
- A plan to address birds on horizontal surfaces
- No use of bird spikes
Instead, the applicant will need to explore alternative, more visually compatible solutions.
5. Dark Sky Compliant Lighting
Lighting was another important topic.
The project will be required to use dark sky compliant lighting, which is designed to:
- Reduce light pollution
- Minimize glare
- Be more consistent with Ventura’s coastal environment
This has become an increasingly important standard in local development projects.
6. Additional Architectural Details
The committee also asked for more detailed plans, including:
- A roof plan
- Building sections
These help the city better understand the scale, massing, and visual impact of the project.
What Happens Next?
The developer will revise the plans based on the city’s feedback and return to the Design Review Committee on May 6th.
If the revisions satisfy the committee, the project can continue moving forward through the approval process. If not, additional changes may be required.
What This Means for Pierpont and Ventura Real Estate
If approved, this project could bring a new type of coffee experience to the Pierpont area.
Unlike traditional cafés, a high-volume, drive-thru oriented concept could:
- Increase activity along Harbor Blvd
- Provide a quick-service option for residents and beachgoers
- Potentially impact traffic patterns in the immediate area
For homeowners, buyers, and investors, projects like this are worth watching. Commercial development can influence neighborhood convenience, desirability, and long-term property values.
Final Thoughts
It’s still early, and nothing has been approved yet.
But the proposed Makenna Koffee at the former Denny’s site is a project to keep an eye on as it moves through Ventura’s approval process.
As always, I’ll continue tracking local developments like this and sharing updates as they happen.
