By Matt Sterner | Photo Courtesy of Barrio Charro on Facebook
“TUCSON MUST KEEP COOKING”
Local baker and owner of Barrio Bread, Don Guerra, chef Carlotta Flores of the Si Charro restaurants are teaming up to open Barrio Charro.
The two Tucsonans, who have both been nominated for the James Beard Award, have worked together on several projects in the past, but seeing how the current pandemic has impacted the local food scene allowed the creative juices to flow.
“As a baker, I am passionate about creating delicious food that fosters community and fuels relationships,” said Don Guerra. “I am thrilled to team up with Carlotta Flores to start Barrio Charro and celebrate the beautiful community and food culture in Tucson, and provide a way for people to continue to gather for meals and support one another in this great place we are blessed to call home.”
Barrio Charro’s menu will feature select alcoholic and craft beverages that’ll pair nicely with Barrio Bread’s creations, and also some all-natural protein options found on such Si Charro menus, like the Carne Asada from Charro Steak or the Mesquite Grilled Salmon from CharroVida.
Additionally, the new restaurant will be serving dishes like avocado toast, bruschettas, and their own versions of open-faced tortas. There’s also rumors of a special Barrio rendition of a “Tlayuda” which is something like a Mexican pizza.
“We both are excited for this new venture,” said chef Carlotta Flores. “Being able to work together is truly going to be so much fun as we have a great friendship and respect for each other’s work ethic.”
The new concept is setting up shop near the Safeway on Campbell and Prince Road — a shopping center that currently houses Ghini’s French Caffe and the Mediterranean restaurant, Med Cuisine.
A grand opening date has yet to be set, but stay tuned for more details.