One of Uptown Phoenix’s most recognizable restaurant spaces will begin an exciting new chapter as Lado A Lado opens its doors this fall, bringing together two influential names in hospitality. The new concept is a collaboration between Chiwas Hospitality Group and Upward Projects, combining the neighborhood-focused hospitality that has made Upward a Phoenix favorite with the award-winning culinary vision of the team behind Tacos Chiwas, Cocina Chiwas, Espiritu and Aruma Cafe.
Located on The Block along Central Avenue (home to Upward Projects concepts Postino, Federal Pizza, Windsor and Churn) Lado A Lado will occupy the former Joyride location, giving the iconic mid-century building a new identity while preserving its role as a neighborhood destination. Construction is expected to begin later this summer following the closure of Joyride’s Phoenix location on August 2. Fans of the restaurant can still visit the Gilbert location, which will remain open.
The restaurant’s name, Lado A Lado, translates to “side by side,” a phrase that captures the inspiration behind the concept. For Chiwas founders and chefs Armando Hernandez, Nadia Holguin and Roberto Centeno, it reflects the memories of growing up preparing meals alongside family members before gathering around the table together. That same sense of connection will shape every aspect of the dining experience.
For Upward Projects, the collaboration represents an opportunity to continue creating spaces that feel deeply connected to the surrounding neighborhood while introducing something entirely new to Phoenix diners.
“This partnership really just grew out of a natural connection. We’ve been big fans of Armando, Nadia and Roberto and their restaurants for a long time, and in the summer of 2025, our teams got together, started talking shop, and completely clicked,” said Lauren Bailey, CEO and co-founder of Upward Projects. “They are brilliant at what they do, and after throwing around some ideas we thought we could bring something unique and cool to the neighborhood.”
The menu will draw inspiration from the Sonoran region, showcasing contrasts like fire and sea, smoke and citrus. While many details remain under wraps, guests can expect a strong emphasis on open-flame and wood-fired cooking. The kitchen itself will become part of the experience, with a central parrillada grill and raw bar serving as the restaurant’s focal points.
“We have a lot of respect for the Upward Projects team and the way they connect with people and create a sense of place,” the Chiwas team shared. “For us, it’s always been about delivering a genuine experience and celebrating culture through food. We’ve wanted to bring our flavors to North Central Phoenix for a long time and doing it alongside partners who care about this community as much as we do makes it really special.”
Lado A Lado represents the coming together of two homegrown hospitality groups with a shared passion for creating memorable experiences; one through thoughtful neighborhood gathering spaces, the other through deeply rooted culinary traditions. Learn more at ladoalado.com or on Instagram @ladoaladophx.
