Gadzooks owners close their Phoenix bar, Hugo's Cantina

Hugo's Cantina, a downtown restaurant and watering hole from the owners of Gadzooks Enchiladas & Soup, has closed. Sara Crocker

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Hugo’s Cantina, the downtown restaurant from the owners of the fast-casual chain Gadzooks Enchiladas & Soup, has quietly closed after less than a year in business.

Aaron and Jared Pool opened the cantina in January. Hugo’s was inspired by the tropical vibrancy of 1980s Ibiza, Spain, as well of the sensibilities of a fictional, sophisticated bear that was its namesake and mascot.

Hugo’s served rolled tacos, street-style tacos, enchiladas and massive cheese crisps, as well as a weekend brunch and a selection of cocktails that leaned into agave spirits and tropical ingredients. The owners sought to bring an affordable spot to eat and drink near Roosevelt Row.

click to enlarge

Hugo's Cantina served tropical cocktails and Mexican-inspired bites, such as rolled tacos.

Sara Crocker

This week reports of Hugo’s closure emerged. Hugo’s aqua neon sign has been removed from the front of the Mission Revival building near First and Garfield streets that, before becoming an eatery, had a history as a funeral home. The restaurant’s website has also been deactivated. A request for comment from Aaron Pool was not immediately returned.

Hugo’s replaced the macabre vegetarian restaurant Sin Muerte, which logged nine months in the building before closing in August 2023. Now, Hugo’s has become the second restaurant to spend less than 12 months in the space.

Hugo’s Cantina

817 N. First St.