New Barrio Restaurant In GR Accused Of ‘Gentrifying’ Tacos

A new eatery in Grand Rapids is accused of 'gentrifying' tacos before they even get a chance to open.

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Barrio restaurant has been listed in the building directory at 37 Ottawa since early 2021, but has yet to open.

A feature on the GRNow Facebook page got a 'mixed' response from some who commented though.

One comment called the restaurant's fare 'Nasty Gentrification Tacos':

nasty gentrification tacos. Apparently the owners used to be partnered with condado. Idk why y’all are so excited when GR literally has some of the best taco stands already existing [sic] . -Gabriella Hernandez

Another since-deleted comment seems to allude to the fact that the tacos served at Barrio's will not be real 'Mexican American' tacos:

While the comment by Salazar seems to insinuate some type of appropriation, anyone who's been to Dutch Village in Holland knows that dressing up and serving food is their ACTUAL business plan.

While these comments seem to take issue with the new restaurant ahead of its opening, many are excited about the new spot in Downtown GR:

Megan Bowman: I can’t wait! Over the summer we visited traverse city and got a taste of Barrio! The most delicious tacos how you want, queso flights and margaritas! Wonderful wonderful staff!

So what do you think? Are Barrio tacos 'appropriating' Mexican culture? Can selling tacos be racist?

More about Barrio Tacos in Grand Rapids

According to Construction Simplified, the company in charge of construction at the space, announced this week that the restaurant is expected to be completed in time for next summer, possibly as early as Spring 2022.

Scott Wierda, the Managing Partner of CWD, the company that owns 37 Ottawa, says that Barrio is set to be a great addition to GR's 'Hotel District':

Barrio’s casual menu, drink selection, and lively decor is a great addition to the Core Downtown, Hotel District, and the Entertainment District. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Jake Hawley and his team to the city’s dining scene.

Barrio Tacos currently has two other Michigan locations including Traverse City & East Lansing.