Central Bistro and Bar Shutters to Return as Candela Latin Kitchen

After nearly five years, LoHi’s Central Bistro and Bar will host its final dinner service on Sunday, June 11 before closing briefly to reopen later this month as Candela Latin Kitchen.

This fresh start brings a new take on Latin cuisine, with affordable menu items inspired by the Caribbean, Latin American, and Mexican food near and dear to the hearts (and heritage) of owner Isiah Salazar and chef Jesse Vega. The two were inspired to make the change after reflecting on the constantly evolving food scene in LoHi, deciding that affordable Latin cuisine was the missing piece. Lola has been serving a similar style of cuisines just blocks away for years and Señor Bear just opened at 33rd and Tejon.

In Salazar’s revamped space, guests will experience an energetic, cantina-style ambience highlighting a large bar and open-air patio ideal for socializing over piña coladas and cold beer while indulging in Latin-inspired flavors. The restaurant team promises a diverse yet approachable menu of tacos, empanadas, mofongo, and ceviche, along with street fare-inspired antojitos, or “little cravings.”

Candela Latin Kitchen will remain under the same ownership, and is set to open in late June in the former Central Bistro and Bar space at 1691 Central Street. When it launches, it will be open Tuesday through Friday for lunch and dinner, and on weekends starting at 10 a.m. for brunch, with twice daily happy hours.