Requinto, the Guerrero-style Mexican brunch pop-up run by chef Erick Pineda, has officially gone big-time. Named one of the best brunches in America this week, the tiny weekend operation inside Linger Longer Lounge is suddenly part of a national conversation and could see those already-long Sunday waits stretch even further. Pineda’s tight, focused menu built around chilaquiles, chicken tecolata tortas and a signature white pozole has been quietly winning over locals since the pop-up launched in late 2022.
National recognition
As reported by The Arizona Republic, Requinto landed on a USA Today roundup of the country’s best brunches on Tuesday. That single mention has been enough to juice traffic to the pop-up and spark fresh online buzz from diners who say they tracked it down after spotting the list on their social feeds.
Why Phoenix diners love it
Local critics have zeroed in on Pineda’s obsession with texture and masa, calling Requinto "a destination" for its carefully balanced chilaquiles and inventive tortas. Phoenix New Times has praised the pop-up’s sweet-corn empanadas and white pozole, and noted that Pineda has held the weekend brunch residency at Linger Longer Lounge since late 2022.
Pop-up model, bigger footprint
Pineda has leaned on the pop-up format to experiment and collaborate around the Valley, including a one-night menu at Pita Jungle that blended Guerrero flavors with Mediterranean touches. Mouth by Southwest chronicled that collaboration and mapped Pineda’s journey through local kitchens leading up to his residency at Linger Longer Lounge.
Where to go and what to expect
Requinto pops up on weekend mornings at Linger Longer Lounge in uptown Phoenix, with walk-in service, limited seating and a rotating menu, so showing up early is strongly advised. For location and contact details, check the lounge listing on MapQuest, and see the Phoenix New Times overview for a deeper look at the menu.
