Dip Into the Tropical Vibes of Centro

Centro, the new restaurant in Northeast and the first half of the highly anticipated dual restaurants from chef Jose Alacron is about to open on a corner in Northeast Minneapolis. The building that’s kitty corner from Indeed Brewing opens up to a riot of pink, vibrant blue and a hum of activity. The staff is ready and the kitchen and bar are being stocked in anticipation of an open this Friday.

The restaurant’s history is rooted in the chef collective of Lyn 65, that’s where chef Alacron first hosted pop ups to solidify this modern Mexican dual eatery, Centro and Popol Vuh. Now, it’s run by the chef and Jami Olson, who will run the front of house.

This first phase of the dual restaurant project is a casual spot has a menu mix of raw bar, tacos, and cocktails. Second will be the elevated Mayan cuisine of Popol Vuh. The long anticipated restaurants were originally expected to open last fall.

Instead, Centro will open by the 30th, if not sooner with some limited hours. Meanwhile the opening for Popol Vuh remains undetermined.

Kevin Kramer/Eater Twin Cities

The menu is stacked with tacos, most priced at just $4. Other dishes are serious Mexican comfort foods: frijoles barrachos, papas chingones and a raw bar with shrimp, aguachile, and ceviche.

Kevin Kramer/Eater Twin Cities

Cocktails are $8 to 10 dollars and a bottle of Tecate is set you back $3.

Kevin Kramer / Eater Twin Cities

The easy Mexican charm of the place is all set for a late week opening.

Kevin Kramer/Eater Twin Cities

Kevin Kramer/Eater Twin Cities

Kevin Kramer / Eater Twin Cities

Kevin Kramer/Eater Twin Cities

• All Centro and Popol Vuh Coverage [ETC]
• Sneak Peek at Centro [MSPMag]
• Check out the menu at Centro, bringing tacos and tap cocktails to Northeast this month [CP]