A curved, cement staircase spirals down to the main entry way of Barrio, a new contemporary restaurant located at the base of the Bellevue Towers on the corner of Northeast Fourth Street and 106th Avenue Northeast in downtown Bellevue.

Inspired by the taste of modern Mexico, Barrio has expanded on its Capital Hill location to open east of the bridge. Owned by the masterminds behind Purple Café and Wine Bar, Barrio offers a latin-focused menu and speciality cocktails for both lunch and dinner. Purple Café and Wine Bar is currently under construction next door to Barrio and is set to open on October 6.

“We are excited about opening our doors in Bellevue. This is a great area,” explained Barrio owner and founder Larry Kurofsky. “We are in a whirlwind as we try to open Barrio and then Purple Café, but it’s an exciting time.”

The industrial undertone of Barrio’s interior is paired with artistic decor and spiral-themed accents throughout the main seating area and bar. A wooden wall holding 200 white candles offers an entry way into the semi-casual dining area where beverages are served in mason-style jugs. The candles are hand lit each evening, towering over the 130-seat dining area.

Barrio, which is Spanish for “neighborhood,” features Executive Chef Mike Davis and Wine Director Dawn Smith. The food at Barrio is prepared with a mix of spiciness and bold flavors, including homemade salsas, plantain chips, small shredded pork tacos and Chilaquiles. Dessert offerings include a Dulce Brulee and Mango Sorbet.

Lindsay Larin can be reached at 425.453.4602.

Barrio Bellevue will be open Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 a.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Happy Hour at Barrio takes place daily from 3-6 p.m.

To learn more about Barrio, visit www.barriorestaurant.com.