Bar Carlo

About the Founder

Melinda Archuleta is the creative force behind Bar Carlo. Despite a background steeped in the familiar challenges of self-employment through her father's ventures, Melinda initially steered away from the entrepreneurial path. However, immersing herself in the restaurant scene awakened an intrinsic connection to the joy and fulfillment found in this bustling industry, making it evident that this was her calling. As her responsibilities broadened, her vision for leadership solidified, leading her to Bar Carlo.

Melinda now crafts an experiential homage to her roots with Bar Carlo’s menu, a heartfelt “love letter to San Diego and border living.” Her commitment to authenticity crafts a culinary experience bursting with the vibrant spirit and flavors from both sides of the border. Innovative and versatile, Bar Carlo's unique spaces allow guests to traverse three distinctive zones, or enjoy the freedom of a sprawling patio – perfect for any gathering from casual outdoor dining to the most romantic of wedding ceremonies.

About the Company

Website: https://www.barcarlopdx.com
When was the company founded? 2007
Where is the company located? Portland, OR

What is/are your top-selling product or products?

For service, our chilaquiles verde with carnitas is top notch, and for events we primarily do parties for family and small-medium organizations.

What is your top accomplishment in the past year and what are you hoping to improve on with the business within the next year?

This isn't glamorous, but around this time last year, I took a hard look at a drop in sales that lasted two quarters. My usual response to something like this would be to update the offerings or slash payroll and push through, but instead I made the calculated decision to pivot. I made a plan to close down night service, which the public had a hard time understanding, and took a chance on private event business. My goal for this year is to see that pivot bear fruit and for event income to make up 30% of our revenue. The dining public is under a lot of financial pressure and the standard small restaurant model is no longer viable, however it is still very important as a 'third space' for community, and increasing our event revenue allows us to continue to fulfill that role.

What are you most looking forward to joining the SheScales program?

The education and guidance we will receive through this program will allow us to lay the framework for real growth and success, which will mean less stress and more security for myself and the staff. I've been actively envisioning what it will look like when my abundance rolls over onto the staff, the public and out into the neighborhood, and I believe this is the start of that positive domino effect.

What areas of marketing do you believe you are proficient in and what areas do you think you need more support with?

I am pretty good with live camera-facing video and clever carousel posts, but I am not as great at unscripted voice-overs. I need help with a marketing schedule, trackable metrics and with how to find corporate event clients, which are our most coveted market.