About Bar Carlo
I'm Melinda Archuleta, the chef and owner of Bar Carlo. I opened our doors in Portland’s Foster-Powell neighborhood back in the winter of 2008.
Growing up in a large Mexican-American family in Southern California, I spent many of my childhood days visiting Tijuana with my grandparents, where I connected deeply with my roots and culture. When I moved to Portland from San Diego, I wanted to create a space that blended the authentic flavors of my heritage with the lively, anything-goes spirit of the border.
Over the past 16 years, I’ve envisioned Bar Carlo as more than just a restaurant—it’s a community hub where everyone is welcome. Known for our brunch offerings, we are dedicated to creating an inclusive space that supports businesses owned by people of color, women, and those who challenge societal norms.
From the bright colors on our walls and lively music to our Chilaquiles and Carnitas, every detail here is about celebrating diversity and creating a warm, inviting space.
In 2024, I was honored to be one of nine game-changing entrepreneurs of color featured in Comcast’s docuseries Culture Capital. This recognition means so much as we continue our mission of fostering community, creativity, and connection here in Southeast Portland at Bar Carlo.
Thank you to of all our friends and family (that’s you) for being a part of this journey with us. Your support allows us to do what we love every day.
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Meet Melinda Archuleta, Owner and Founder of Bar Carlo in an Article with Hola
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Here’s an article I contributed to about Cantaritos, which are easy to make and easier to drink ;)
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A Fireside Chat With Restauranteur & Comcast’s Culture Capital Cast Member Melinda Archuleta
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I was honored to be a part of this docu-series, stream it on Peacock!
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I was featured by Latinas Poderosas in this short video :)
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As a participant in the Xcelerate program, I was chosen to participate in their annual impact report.
Xcelerate Women is a game changer of a resource.
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This article touches on kindness, love and the anxiety (read: chaos) of running a business.
Part of our Comcast Rise Grant package was a free commercial that aired on local cable channels.
Carlo, who worked for me during his last years of high school, was seriously studying film, so I took it as an opportunity to give him a go at directing something that would get a lot of viewers. I gave him carte blanche. Enjoy!