Portland’s El Corazon Expands and Opens New Restaurant in South Portland

El Corazon in Spanish translates to 'the heart'. Joseph and Laura Urtuzuastegui put their heart into every dish they prepare.

El Corazon started as a food truck back in 2013. I would track down this truck no matter where they were. I was lucky, they were often on Spring Street in Portland close to where I work.

To hear that they are opening a second location is so exciting. I was sad to hear that 158 Pickett Street Cafe in South Portland had closed after 20 years. But when one door closes, another opens. This location is where El Corazon Casita will be. They are renovating right now. When they open, it will be Tuesday through Saturday.

Now I have two places to love and have the best Mexican food around! One thing that Joe became famous for on his El Corazon truck (and on the menu at his restaurant), is the Sonoran hot dog. Back in 2015, I had the ultimate pleasure of watching Joe make the tasty treat! Joe is a gentle, quiet very talented chef. He was great to put up with me.

I feel lucky that I got the chance to watch the master. Not just me, he was also on the Cooking Channel where he made his Sonoran Hot Dog for celebrity Chef Aaron Sanchez on his show Taco Trip. It was two years later that he started the brick-and-mortar restaurant in Longfellow Square in Portland. Congratulations to Joe and Laura! I'll be sure to visit you over the bridge in South Portland.