Established in 2002 by partners Wendy Gruber & chef Silvana Salcido Esparza, The Barrio was a dream come true for the duo -- a little neighborhood eatery providing authentic southern Mexico cuisine and chef's original creations in a unpretentious atmosphere. Mission accomplished! The Barrio Cafe has been hailed as one of the hottest & original restaurants to hit Phoenix.

Barrio Catertm offers a vast selection of catering to fit your needs. From a backyard parrillada to the ultimate gala affair, our extensive catering background can provide a menu to fit your event.
Let award winning chef, Silvana Salcido Esparza write you a custom menu for your next event.

chef
chef Silvana Salcido Esparza was raised in a traditional Mexican family. During her childhood Silvana's parents owned and operated the first and only Mexican bakery in Merced, located in central California.

Chef Silvana father's craft of baking was learned from his father before him, who in turn learned it from his wife's family. The family tradition of baking can be traced back to France and brought to Mexico with the migration there during the reign of Maximilian & Carlota. However, the Salcido baking history dates back to the 1200’s where the de Salcido's were Royal Pastry Chefs to King Alonso El Sabio of Spain.
This bakery was truly a family affair for it was here that chef Silvana found her love and passion for the kitchen and 'back of the house' thus building a strong foundation for future as a chef. Cooking with her grandmother 'Silvana' and her mother Leonor is where she leared that love is the key ingredient to making stellar Mexican cuisine. Following her father's legacy was easy and only natural for Silvana. Chef Silvana explains; "I have always felt my family's history run through my vains. I have followed my heart and do what I love - how lucky can I get!"

Fulfilling a lifetime goal, in the year 2000 & 2001 Silvana embarked on an adventure of discovery. She traveled throughout Mexico's back roads and small villages learning more about her Mexican heritage, customs, people and, most of all, the food.
Through her culinary experiences as a child and her travels, chef Silvana developed her own style of Mexican cuisine. Silvana likes to refer to her version of taditional and typical Mexican cuisine as Modern Mexicana or Urban Mexicana. This original and fresh style is the result of Silvana's own interpretation of traditional Mexican cuisine and influences from her mother and grandmother, her own heritage, experiences and travels.

Contact:
Barrio Cafe
2814 N. 16th St., Phoenix
(602) 636-0240
Price: $20-$40