Barrio Cafe In Danger Of Closing, Chef Says Things Look 'Bleak'

PHOENIX — Barrio Cafe is one of the Valley's most notable food spots, but even it is not immune to the financial ramifications of the coronavirus pandemic, which continues to hammer the restaurant industry.

James Beard Award-nominated chef Silvana Salcido Esparza posted on Instagram Sunday that her iconic Mexican restaurant is in danger of closing. "If we can't find a way past this, it's over. Can't put it any other way," she said.

Unforeseen plumbing issues have contributed to what she called the "bleak" situation at Barrio, which was already in dire straits because of the pandemic. The chef was previously forced to shutter a second restaurant in downtown Phoenix, Barrio Cafe Gran Reserva, in April. When the pandemic first began, Esparza and her team worked to feed the homeless, even as their restaurant closed its doors and Esparza suffered from a resurgence of her terminal illness.

Barrio Cafe did not immediately respond to Patch's request for comment.

Esparza's post attracted lots of social media attention, including from Arizonan Meghan McCain.

"This is breaking my heart — if you can please support and get a meal from them! Support local and keep great restaurants in business!" "The View" co-host tweeted.

Barrio Cafe opened in central Phoenix in 2002 and is renowned for dishes such as chiles en nogada and the iconic tableside guacamole with pomegranate seeds, inspired by the chef's travels through Mexico. Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" featured the restaurant, and Esparza got a nomination for a prestigious James Beard Award for best chef in the Southwest.

The restaurant was temporarily closed for plumbing repairs over the weekend but will reopen for food service Monday.