If seeing the dark, empty space at 1011 North Third Street -- you know, the space that used to be The Local -- has been bumming you out, you'll be happy to know it won't be like that for long. A new modern taquería drawing talent from several local chefs is getting ready to take over the old The Local space.
The new dining spot, called Paz, is aiming to open by First Friday on Friday, November 7 and has a nice bit of chef power behind it. In the kitchen you'll find chefs Michael Reyes, Brian Webb (Hey, Joe!), and Joseph Aguayo (Verde).
See also: After Six Months, The Local in Downtown Phoenix Has Closed
The restaurant will keep things authentic with scratch-made corn tortillas, but will also draw inspiration from around the world. Reyes says he's got plans for chicken cooked on the vertical spit (like al pastor) but with "more of a schwarma flavor."
"We kind of see ourselves as tacos of the universe," Reyes says. "And we come in peace."
Reyes, whose résumé includes Pure Sushi, The Compound Grill, and Otro Cafe says he's been working with Brian Webb of Hey, Joe! food truck for years. Chef Joseph Aguayo, of the defunct downtown restaurant Verde, is also a good friend.
Together they plan to serve affordable street-style eats to the Roosevelt neighborhood. Reyes says the opening menu should include tacos, chips, salsa, beer, and margaritas. Price points will be about $3 for a taco and $3 for a beer.
"We're just bringing a lot of kick-ass ideas," Reyes says, adding that they hope to re-energize the corner. Currently two of three retail storefronts in the complex on Third Street and Roosevelt are empty.
Though they're planning to open in a short period of time, Reyes says they'll be doing some redesign. He says they've brought in local artists to paint murals on the walls to add "a little street edge." They hope to commission more local art in the future.
