GuacStar Kitchen and Cantina announced its first location, slated to open first quarter 2020. The restaurant is a one-of-a-kind, plant-based restaurant and bar concept that combines eating, drinking and having fun under one roof. Located in the Cornerstone Mall directly across from Arizona State University’s Tempe campus, the 4,650-square-foot restaurant is located at 930 E University Drive on the northeast corner of University Drive and Rural Road.

Restaurateurs James Carlin, Tom Cerino and Randy Feldman, along with partners Suzanne Davis and Julie LaRussa, want to redefine the plant-based category by creating a dining experience typically associated with that of hip main-stream restaurants found in cities like New York or Los Angeles.

“GuacStar’s goal is very simple – to show the masses that you don’t have to sacrifice your taste buds or your wallets by eating plant-based cuisine,” said Carlin, GuacStar co-owner. “Our mission is to make healthy food sexy and to create an exciting, unpretentious plant-based dining destination where the overall experience counts just as much as the food.” 

In order to create a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience, GuacStar departs from interiors typically associated with most plant-based restaurants. The restaurant features a warm, contemporary environment that showcases a fusion of customized raw materials, creative lighting and stylish décor. 

The restaurant is the first plant-based, full-service restaurant in Arizona with an inspired beer, wine and craft cocktail program. GuacStar features mouth-watering plant-based versions of Mexican comfort food classics, created by Executive Chef Vincent Contreras, that fuel and energize without compromising flavor, taste or satisfaction. 

Not only is GuacStar a destination for revolutionary plant-based food and drink, but it’s the perfect place to people watch and socialize with family and friends. The irreverent atmosphere and upbeat vibe will thrill guests seven days a week for lunch and dinner, as well as weekend brunch and late-night dining. GuacStar will give Arizona a unique taste of culinary excitement with an emphasis on just how much fun plant-based dining can be.