Zuni Cafe Worker Saves Patron Using CPR, SFFD to Issue Plaque in His Honor

Rodrigo Lopez, a 35-year-old busser at Zuni Cafe, saved a guest from cardiac arrest on August 9 by administering CPR during lunch service. The man collapsed outside the cafe while dining with his family, prompting Lopez to act swiftly with chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Lopez has a background as a lifeguard and CPR instructor in Spain and Argentina, skills he had not utilized until this incident. The emotional scene drew applause from patrons who witnessed the rescue. Zuni Cafe's manager expressed pride in Lopez's actions, stating the community rallied around him.

In recognition of his heroism, the San Francisco Fire Department plans to present Lopez with a plaque. The guest has since recovered and returned to Zuni Cafe with a handwritten note and gift to express his gratitude. Lopez described the experience as "amazing," emphasizing that the guest's survival was the best part for him.