Latin Grammy winner brings traditional Mexican flavors to Aurora with new restaurant

Latin Grammy Award-winner Memo Ibarra, lead singer of the music group Alacranes Musical, has opened a new business venture in his hometown Aurora.

On Thursday, Ibarra was joined by Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for his new restaurant, Menudazo, at 1146 Front St.

Located on Aurora’s east side, Menudazo — also known as “La Casita del Menudo” or “The Little Menudo House” — specializes in authentic traditional Mexican soups. The menu spotlights menudo, a soup made with cow tripe in a savory chili pepper base, as well as posole, a rich and flavorful soup featuring pork, according to a news release.

Ibarra received a Latin Grammy Award in 2009. Alacranes Musical formed in Aurora in 1995, and has captivated audiences with its regional Mexican sound. Its hit single, “Por Amarte Así,” topped the Billboard charts for several consecutive weeks and became a top-downloaded ringtone, according to the news release.

“Opening Menudazo in my hometown is a dream come true,” Ibarra said in the release. “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.”