Today we’d like to introduce you to Brad Kraten.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Curadero is a soulful, coastal Mexican kitchen that celebrates the bold flavors found throughout the streets of Mexico. Situated inside the chic Hotel Palomar, the multi-level eatery is a great escape for locals and travelers. The restaurant serves really good Mexican food, and boasts its own ceviche bar in the back of the restaurant, an impressive selection of agave spirits, and an upstairs late night taco window. It’s a fun, playful space where friends and family can meet and unwind.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Since Curadero is not in a prime foot traffic area being on the North side of downtown, and falls short on street parking, it requires a bit of extra time to get there.
Once inside, however, you’ll soon forget it all, as well as the bad day you had.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Curadero’s menu celebrates the traditional flavors and timeless techniques found in rural Mexican cooking. Housemade items and heirloom products are presented in simple, yet bold dishes. The menu features a wide variety of antojitos, or little cravings, as well as a selection of crudo, tacos and larger, shareable plates, all showcasing an authentic depth of flavor.
The bar highlights a comprehensive list of Mexican craft beers, Baja wines, specialty cocktails, and an impressive selection of tequilas and mezcals that pair well with the food.
In addition to the food and agave selections, Curadero has something many don’t – a taco window. Located on the second floor, the Taco Window is a graffiti clad food option for late night weekend revelers. Open 9pm-1am every Thursday-Saturday, the Taco Window dishes out street food on the cheap alongside beers and tequila. Once you grab the food, you can head to the game lounge to enjoy it all. The game lounge is stocked with Tabletop Classic arcade games, like Ms. Pac-Man. There’s also a shuffleboard and food ball table.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up in San Jose, I was steeped in traditional Mexican food and ingredients from a young age. Now, after a 20-year career that has included stints at top Bay Area restaurants like Spago Palo Alto and Park Place Cupertino, Kraten has come full circle, finally having a chance to recreate the flavors I grew up loving. I am committed to sourcing the highest quality and most traditional ingredients for Curadero, buying all his seafood from Baja, masa from a local tortilleria, and dried chilies from Guadalajara.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1047 Fifth Ave | San Diego, CA 92101
- Website: www.curadero.com
- Phone: 619.515.3003
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