CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Popular Charlotte staple Suárez Bakery has opened its second location, joining the growing roster of tenants at Optimist Hall.
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The longtime local favorite, known for its cakes, pastries and traditional Cuban breads, has expanded its menu at its newest location with updated Cuban classics and dishes inspired by owner Carlos Suárez’s Cuban heritage and upbringing in Miami.
“We’ve been baking breads at our Park Road bakery since we opened there in 1992, and we’ve built our new menu around them at our second location,” Suárez said in a news release.
“We’re excited for guests to enjoy these breads in a new and exciting way. Optimist Hall has been a game-changer for the Charlotte food scene, and we feel fortunate to be a part of it,” he said.
Suárez collaborated with chef Hector Gonzalez on the counter menu.
Diners can expect pressed sandwich favorites such as Cubanos and Medianoches with marinated mojo pork layered with ham, cheese, pickles and a signature mojo mustard will be served on Suárez’s authentic, house-made Cuban breads. Rice bowls topped with meats and vegetables like Ropa Vieja — made with tender and spiced beef — and snacks such as Yucca fries, Croquetas, black beans and rice and maduros round out the menu.
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Vegan sandwich, bowl and snack options will also be available.
The Optimist Hall location will also offer all-new laminated pastries like croissants and morning buns alongside current favorites like doughnuts, cake slices and cookies.
To wash things down, the beverage menu features new takes on traditional drinks like Cuban espresso and café con leche. Beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages will also be on the menu.
Suárez Bakery and Barra is next to Papi Queso and the 18th tenant to open in Optimist Hall.
For more information, check out suarezbakeryandbarra.com.