A new Latin-inspired restaurant called Barrio is getting ready to make its debut near the ByWard Market, located at 115 Rideau Street.
The new restaurant is set to open this month in the former home of Pure Kitchen. The restaurant is the latest venture from Lizardo Becerra, the chef-owner of Raphaël Peruvian Cuisine and Ottawa’s representative at the Canadian Culinary Championship. An exact opening date has not been confirmed. Meanwhile, Stella Luna Gelato Café is preparing to open a new location at 101 York St., taking over the space formerly occupied by Pub 101.
Becerra is the chef-owner behind Raphaël Peruvian Cuisine, located in the Glebe. He opened the restaurant in 2022, offering modern Peruvian dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and anticuchos. Becerra previously trained and worked in Peru and Canada, gaining recognition for his bold, authentic flavors. Raphaël has since become a destination for those seeking refined takes on traditional Peruvian fare.
Ottawa Venues is a local hospitality group that manages and operates multiple dining and event spaces in the city. Alex Sirois is the managing partner and plays a role in both Barrio and Stella Luna’s new Market locations. The group focuses on high-traffic, central locations and unique dining experiences. Ottawa Venues is known for collaborating with chefs and entrepreneurs on new culinary ventures.
The ByWard Market is rapidly evolving, making it an ideal location for Barrio. Recent openings like Grey’s Social Eatery, Beyond the Pale Brewing Co.’s taproom, and Starling restaurant are revitalizing the area. These establishments, along with others such as Juice Dudez and Mr. Fez, are attracting both locals and tourists. Barrio’s Latin-inspired cuisine will complement this dynamic culinary landscape.
