Spanish Soul

First there was Alma: Spanish for “soul.” Now, Chef Alex Roberts is opening Brasa (which means “hot coal”) at 600 E. Hennepin on the site formerly occupied by Betty’s Bikes and Buns. At Brasa, Roberts will serve soul food from Latin America, Peru, and the Caribbean — sweet potatoes, rice, beans, pork shoulder, and rotisserie chicken — only the majority of the ingredients will be Midwestern, organic and locally sourced. “I’m devoted to fine dining and that’s my training,” Roberts says. “But I also really love good wholesome everyday food.” Expect the 45-seat Brasa to open the last week of June, with a full takeout menu and prices in the $12-20 range.