Carnalito takes its name from the Mexican slang carnal, an expression of brotherhood and closeness that defines the project’s essence: hospitality and community. More than just a culinary destination, the space is conceived as a social and cultural stage. It is a vibrant, contemporary proposal that transforms the taco-eating ritual, elevating Mexican warmth through a design that balances nostalgia with modernity.
Located in the heart of New Orleans, the project leverages the city’s multicultural character to fuse Mexican tradition with subtle “retro” nuances native to NOLA. The aesthetic integrates street culture, where folk roots and urban flair manifest through vivid colors and dynamic textures.
The interior architecture is strategically organized to foster interaction:
– The Operational Core: A central volume frames a front bar with an open kitchen, dissolving barriers between the guest, the culinary process, and the maestro taquero.
– Urban Dynamics: In the central zone, two high-top bars designed for standing recreate the everyday flow of street stalls, adding flexibility and an informal rhythm to the atmosphere.
– The Visual Landmark: Serving as the focal point, a tiered seating area features a disco ball embedded in the wall—a disruptive and iconic design element.
The festive atmosphere is built through a constant interplay of reflections and movement. Circular mirror lighting fixtures and suspended greenery add dynamism to the volume. A vibrant color palette, paired with a curated selection of graphic elements, invites users to immerse themselves in Mexican popular culture, resulting in a space that is simultaneously honest, elegant, and deeply welcoming.