El Arco in Lincoln Heights is expanding into the restaurant’s adjoining 563 square-foot space and adding a full bar. The eatery currently occupies 2622-2624 Pasadena Ave. and will be taking over 2626 Pasadena. Owner Gustavo Pelaez said they will most likely stay open during renovations and expect to be complete by August.
“We’re taking over the whole building and adding a sit-down bar with around 12 seats. Right now, we only serve beer, but with this addition we’ll add on cocktails and margaritas. We’re also planning a special bar menu and expanded happy hour offerings,” said Pelaez.
The decades-old Mexican joint was originally opened by Pelaez’s grandparents, Irene and Gustavo Montes, in Highland Park in 1964. During its 50+ years of service, the restaurant became known for its old school Mexican dishes and margaritas. The local favorite closed its doors in 2017 but was given new life by Pelaez when he reopened El Arco in its current Lincoln Heights spot in 2022.
“When I was a kid I spent most of my childhood in El Arco Iris, Highland Park. Playing with my sister. Working front of house, kitchen, setting up the banquet room, and sometimes just setting up makeshift beds so we could sleep while our mom worked…Now, as an adult, as a Father and Husband, to be able to share this with my family, is everything,” a pinned post by Pelaez on El Arco’s Instagram reads.
El Arco takes pride in its fresh-made food and sharing dishes that have been passed down for generations, like their 60-year-old green chile recipe and famous burritos.
El Arco is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends.
