The Ugly Mug, a coffee shop located in the heart of Soquel Village on the corner of Soquel Drive and Porter Street, has been in operation since 1996. Owner Steve Volk has succeeded in creating the café he hoped for: a place where the community can gather for good coffee, conversation and special performances and art shows. Besides espresso drinks and tea, The Ugly Mug also serves gelato, pastries and light meals such as paninis.