Barracuda, Te Amo & 80 Proof in New Haven, Connecticut: Meet the Chef
We sat down with Executive Chef Sonia Salazar of Te Amo Tequila Bar, Barracuda Bistro & Bar and 80 PROOF American Kitchen & Bar in New Haven, Connecticut. These LGBTQ-owned hotspots serve the best food at affordable prices in New Haven. They are known for their amazing happy hours, generous portions, and a party vibe on any given day or night. You can visit all three locations just by just hopping down the block and trying a little bit of each one.
Barracuda, Te Amo & 80 Proof in New Haven, Connecticut: Meet the Chef
Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?
I kiss my wife. Then I cook breakfast for Lucas & Daniela (my kids) while enjoying a strong cup of coffee. At the end of the day, I drive home reviewing the fun and memories created with my customers that day.
Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?
Dorothy Award. The Dorothy Award is an honor presented by the New Haven Pride Center for our work within the community and for creating welcoming environments at our restaurants that are inclusive for all.
Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?
I’ve been visiting a lot of female-owned restaurants, but this year my favorites are Chef Macrena Ludena at Cora Cora in West Hartford and Meg Fama at Farm Belly in New Haven.
For aspiring chefs – Keep eating. Keep tasting. But also find your originality.
What do you typically cook at home?
Currently, I’m cooking farm-to-table at home with as many local and fresh ingredients as possible. A wide selection of high-quality meats, fish and poultry. I cook a lot of traditional Colombian foods, like arepas and soups, but I also enjoy introducing my kids to global cuisine, such as pâté and Thai curry.
What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?
Omakase has recently become more accessible in our area of Connecticut, and it has been amazing to experience the subtle differences in each location's approach to creating the perfect bite of sushi.
What’s the strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? And, did you like it?
There is no strange food combination. As chefs, we want to try everything. Having grown up eating cow tongue and fish eyes, nothing is shocking or bizarre.
What drink do you enjoy most?
I like my tequila year-round, but I also enjoy the seasonal beverage experience from fall espresso or pumpkin martinis to bourbon in January and summer flavors like gin with cucumber.
Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?
My wife. The only celebrity that matters.
What’s your Instagram so readers can follow you?
Check out instagram.com/teamotequilabar/, instagram.com/barracudanewhaven/, and instagram.com/80proofkitchen/.
Why should readers visit Barracuda, Te Amo, 80 Proof in New Haven, Connecticut?
We serve the best food at affordable prices in New Haven. We are known for our amazing happy hours, generous portions, and our party vibe on any given day or night. You can visit all three locations by just hopping down the block and trying a little bit of each: Te Amo Tequila Bar, Barracuda Bistro & Bar and 80 PROOF American Kitchen & Bar.