The Local Lens Project aims to highlight the story behind small businesses in their community, giving spotlights to the owners' visions, dreams, and contributions to the larger community.

Macchi Cafe

The city of Pleasanton is built on the foundation of small businesses. Each store provides a sense of community and identity even today. The owner of Macchi opened a small cafe in hopes of building upon the dream that many other small business owners pursue: to bring love and passion to their city.

Studio Seven Arts

16 years ago, Dirk chose to pursue his dreams of opening a shop. Taking over an old art store, he transformed it to reflect what the residents of Pleasanton wanted to admire. It's his firm belief that a business should reflect the community, and that's exactly what Studio Seven Arts does.  

Le Palais Sucré

We have gotten the chance to sit down with Martina Ruiz, yet another woman whose dreams have manifested in the heart of downtown Pleasanton. Named Le Palais Sucré, Martina and her family worked together to make a multi-cultured cafe that provides both A-grade service and taste.