316 W. Goodwin St. is proof that history repeats itself and that Prescott’s desire to maintain its small-town feel is nothing new. At just 1,058 square feet, the building that houses El Gato Azul still exists thanks to Tony Martinez, a Prescott resident and former Yavapai County assessor, who refused to sell the property when developers wanted to combine it with neighboring parcels for a three-story office building.
During the 1950s, the cinder block building housed Marsh’s Electric Motor Repair, while next door sat a private residence and market with a screened wraparound porch. Martinez’s decision preserved what became a cottonwood-shaded creekside nook tucked in the shadow of 141 S. McCormick St. — a small-town example of David and Goliath. Over the years, the property became home to a variety of small cafes and bistros.
Nick Faulstick operated Nick’s Feed Your Face there until 2001 after closing the original Montezuma Street location in 1995. On the right day, when sunlight hits the front windows just right, you can still faintly see the painted “To Go” lettering from years past. Since 2009, Nick’s has operated nearby in Goodwin Street Plaza. The owners of Iron Springs Cafe later opened a small bistro called Creekside before El Gato Azul brought tapas to Prescott in 2004. At the time, rumors circulated that a “topless bar” was moving in, prompting extra marketing to clear things up. The cinder block exterior was stuccoed over, a wall was opened to the patio, outdoor seating expanded, and Gato was born.
The goal was simple: create a casual, welcoming place where people could gather, relax and enjoy “Prescott’s Quirky, Cozy, Friendly Place to Meet.” What began with 12 tapa selections and a handful of entrees has grown into a menu with more than 60 tapas alongside full lunch and dinner offerings. The menu leans heavily into Southwest flavors with “Preskit-sized” portions replacing traditional tapas servings. Nearly everything is prepared fresh in-house daily, from sauces and salsa to desserts and hummus.
El Gato Azul was never meant to be fancy. It was created to be full of energy, color, music, flavor, friends and memories — the kind of place where neighboring tables strike up conversations, share menu suggestions, recommend favorite hikes or shops, and connect over good food and a killer margarita. With a belief that the best conversations happen around the table, Gato embraces the spirit of tapas dining: a relaxed, welcoming experience built on variety, community and enjoying Prescott without pretense.
Perhaps it’s the space — or lack thereof — that makes Gato memorable. The rooftop garden, over-the-top holiday décor, Sunday jazz, the Monday Mad Hatters and the Free Little Library all add to the charm. It’s one of those places that shouldn’t work, but somehow does, and we’re glad to share it with Prescott.
