Barrio Taqueria Opening at Martini Corner This June with Rooftop Patio

By Kevin Collison

Barrio is adding a fourth outlet at Martini Corners in the former Sol Cantina space, this one with serving a more streamlined menu and a modified name, Barrio Taqueria.

Chris Ridler, a partner in Barrio Taqueria, says the new restaurant will include a rooftop patio that can accommodate 75 people, more television screens to add to its sports-watching appeal and more casual menu than the other Barrios.

“We want to create a more casual atmosphere and we won’t be offering entrees,” he said. “Instead will have grilled wraps and sandwiches and also offer tacos ala carte.”

The new restaurant is expected to open in early June. The new project will not reopen the patio space behind the former Sol Cantina. That site is reserved for a future project.

The renovated space is part of an expanded vision for Martini Corner being pursued by Exact Partners and other investors.

In 2020, the developer announce a $3 million renovation and new construction plan for the properties on the north side of 31st between Gillham and Oak. The proposal includes building an elevated patio walkway to connect existing businesses.

A 2020 redevelopment plan included connecting the building that will house the Barrio Taqueria with other Martini Corner properties with a skywalk. (Rendering by Exact Partners)

For Ridler, the opportunity to continue doing business in Martini Corner was appealing. He had been a part-owner of Sol Cantina for 16 years. Luke Pickett will be the operating partner at Barrio Taqueria.

“We’re seeing a tremendous amount of development between the Plaza and the River Market, more apartments and more people,” Ridler said.

He also appreciates a recent road-dieting project that narrowed 31st Street and made the traffic situation calmer.

Barrio has restaurants in Brookside, Red Bridge and Briarcliff, and while the new Taqueria version won’t serve entrees with all the trimmings, it will continue to have brunches on Saturday and Sunday plus a full bar including drink specials.

Brunches will include menu favorites breakfast burritos, chillaquiles and carnitas hash.

Hours will be 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.