Julian Wright, the visionary behind Tempe favorites Pedal Haus and Devil’s Hideaway & Idle Hands on Mill, has announced his newest restaurant concept, Carmen, which is set to open in Spring 2025 at 6th and Mill in Downtown Tempe.

Inspired by the tropical allure of Playa del Carmen—one of Julian’s favorite destinations—Carmen will bring the fresh, coastal flavors from Mexico to Tempe.

We caught up with Julian to dive into his vision behind Carmen, which blends the easygoing energy and vibrant flavors of Playa del Carmen, Cancun, and Tulum. Expect a laid-back atmosphere, where you can kick back and feel like you're on a little getaway—no rush, just good food, good drinks, and good vibes.

The concept is a lush, open-air & breezy experience, with a massive outdoor patio and three unique bars.Embracing the laidback, tropical Mexican vibe, Carmen will feature a palapa-covered bar, a large community table under a second palapa, and cozy booths tucked into individual huts—all surrounded by towering tropical plants. Every detail, from the wood and cement finishes to the open layout, is designed to transport guests straight to the Mexican coastline.

The menu will be inspired by the flavors of Playa del Carmen, with agave-based cocktails and cold beer. On weekends, Carmen will offer a relaxed Latin lounge atmosphere with SoCal reggae beats, turning up the energy after 10 p.m. when a DJ spins eclectic, funky tunes for a lively nightlife experience.

Adding to the excitement is a touch of nostalgia. Julian created and operated a popular modern tequila bar, Canteen, in this very space from 2010 to 2013. Now, Carmen will bring new life to the location, offering Tempe a vibrant, coastal-inspired escape that feels worlds away. One thing is certain – this will bring a good hang to the streets of Downtown Tempe.