Full Breakdown
Closure of Barroco Grill Marks a New Chapter for the Vergara Family
2/17/2026, 3:56:35 AM
Overview of the Closure
Barroco Grill, a beloved restaurant in Lakewood, Ohio, has officially closed its doors after 15 years of operation. The father-and-son team, Carlos and Juan Vergara, opened the original location in 2011, quickly becoming known for their Colombian street food, particularly arepa sandwiches. The restaurant's success led to expansions, including additional Barroco Grill locations and the Hola Tacos brand. However, the recent closure of the Lakewood and Westlake locations, along with a temporary pause at the Crocker Park site, signals a significant transition for the Vergara family.
Reasons Behind the Closure
Juan Vergara explained that the decision to close the Lakewood location was not due to a lack of business but rather a need for the family to step back for personal health reasons. He stated, “We have just given so much over the years: the growth we’ve had, the mistakes we’ve made, the accomplishments we’ve had.” The family expressed pride in their journey, acknowledging the emotional weight of closing their original restaurant while also emphasizing their commitment to maintaining the Larchmere location.
Community Impact and Legacy
The closure of Barroco Grill has resonated deeply within the Lakewood community. In a heartfelt message shared on social media, the Vergara family reflected on the relationships and community ties they built over the years, stating, “Through this restaurant, we built more than a business, we built a family, lifelong friendships, and a community that embraced us from day one.” This sentiment underscores the restaurant's role as a cultural hub in the area.
Future Plans for Remaining Locations
While the Lakewood and Westlake locations will remain closed, the Larchmere site will continue to operate. The Vergara family has indicated that they are exploring new opportunities for their other locations, hinting at potential changes in management. Juan Vergara mentioned that they are looking to pass on the remaining locations to “good operators” in the coming months, ensuring that the legacy of Barroco Grill continues in some form.
Official Statements & Responses
In their official communications, the Vergara family expressed gratitude to their customers and the community for their support throughout the years. They emphasized their desire to focus on the core values that inspired them to enter the restaurant business, stating, “We are closing this chapter as a family, but we do so with dignity, gratitude and pride.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “When we first opened, we had big dreams, but we could never have imagined everything this place would give us.” — Juan Vergara, Co-owner
- “We are closing this chapter as a family, but we do so with dignity, gratitude and pride.” — Barroco Grill Facebook Post
The closure of Barroco Grill marks the end of an era for the Vergara family and the Lakewood community, but it also opens the door for new possibilities and continued culinary contributions in the region.
