Latin Grammy Winner Opens Mexican Restaurant In Aurora

AURORA, IL — A Latin Grammy winner is venturing into the restaurant industry, with his first eatery, Menudazo, officially opening Thursday afternoon in Aurora.

Memo Ibarra will be joined by Mayor Richard Irvin for an official ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4 p.m. for Menudazo, located at 1146 Front St. on the city's east side.

Also known as "La Casita del Menudo" or "The Little Menudo House," Menudazo specializes in authentic Mexican soups, including menudo, a dish made with cow tripe in a savory chili pepper base, and posole, which features pork.

Ibarra, a native of Aurora, is the lead singer of Alacranes Musical, a group formed in 1995 that has captivated audiences worldwide, winning a Latin Grammy Award in 2009. With more than 3 million monthly listeners on Spotify, the band's top listeners come from Mexico and Guatemala.

With his new restaurant, Ibarra "reflects his passion for culture, community, and culinary excellence," city officials said in a news release.

"Opening Menudazo in my hometown is a dream come true," Ibarra said in a statement. "I want to bring a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine to Aurora and create a space where the community can come together to enjoy great food and great company."