Brooklyn Carreta Bar & Carts, located at 8230 SE McLoughlin Boulevard, is more than just another food pod—it’s a thoughtfully designed space that blends global flavors, elevated ambiance, and community connection, all in one destination.
The concept was developed by Danielle Moody, whose background in building food pods revealed a surprising gap in the industry. “Most were functional and basic, but few offered an elevated place for everyone to gather with authentic, international food,” she tells What Now Media Group in an exclusive interview. That inspired her team to create something “above average,” a welcoming space where quality cuisine and thoughtful design come together seamlessly.
The name pays tribute to the location’s history. Previously home to La Carreta, a beloved restaurant that served the community for decades, the team wanted to preserve its legacy as a neighborhood gathering spot. “We wanted a place you could bring everyone to—your grandma would be comfortable, and so would your teenager,” Moody explains. “A place that everyone feels welcome.”
So far, it’s working. Since opening, Brooklyn Carreta Bar & Carts has seen a steady stream of local support. “We’ve been busy! We’ve been welcomed with open arms by the neighborhood and city,” Moody shares. The challenge now? Maintaining excellence in every detail. “We want to be above average in everything we do, and that requires constant attention.”
For Moody, the most rewarding part has been the community feedback. “People have been so complimentary about what we created, and that was unexpected. I regularly hear from customers that we did a great job—and that’s been such a bonus.”
With the McLoughlin location thriving, the team is already preparing for what’s next: a second Carreta Bar & Carts in Portland’s Hollywood neighborhood, slated to open in Summer 2026.
“Food carts are an amazing industry,” Moody adds. “They allow regular people to open businesses and make great food at a lower overhead cost.”
