The Rio Pub Takes Flight: Local Owners Announced New Pre-Security Operators Coming to SMF Terminal B
Wednesday, Dec. 3rd, 2025
Rio Pub Announces New Pre-Security Restaurant at Sacramento International Airport
Celebrating Local Roots, Hospitality, and the Spirit of Sacramento at SMF
We at The Rio Pub are thrilled to share some exciting news with our Sacramento community and all travelers passing through Sacramento International Airport (SMF): our team is bringing the heart and flavor of Sacramento to a brand-new restaurant and café in the pre-security area of Terminal B, opening Spring 2026!
After nearly six years of vacancy, the space that once hosted Camden and Gateway Bar will be revitalized under our leadership, thanks to the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors’ approval of a 10-year Food & Beverage Concession Agreement with our new sister company, Local Flights LLC. This marks a new chapter for us, drawing on our deep community roots and hospitality experience.
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.
"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!"
Jackson Charles, LLC (aka The Rio Pub) and Local Flights LLC are appreciative for the Sacramento Valley Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and the critical role in connecting us to this amazing 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.”
For more information about Sacramento International Airport, visit flysmf.com and theriopub.com