Thrifty Hipster

Average User Rating: 4 out of 5 (from 6 users)

The 2nd Barrio to hit the Twin Cities is right here along Mears Park in St. Paul. Barrio is helping to make lowertown St. Paul a destination spot, whether its because of Chef Tim McKee's Award Winning Food (Tim was awarded the 2009 James Beard award) or Johnny Micheal's unique infusions and specialty drinks we may never know. But what we DO know is that Barrio is cool. It brings the concept of upscale Mexican Street food to the area... It feels like a lounge, with high top tables, long mirrored laden bar (featuring 140 varieties of tequila), and weekend DJ's, but its decorated with kitchy Mexican design (like dancing marionettes, Mexican wrestler masks, and gothic candle holders) which give it a more comfortable and unique feel. The food is excellent, some of the best chips and salsa I've ever had. Small plates are available for $7.50, while full entrees are in the $15-20 range.