This Is Boise was saddened to hear the news last week of Robert Castoro’s passing. The 53-year old founder and former owner of Boise’s Barbacoa restaurant was pronounced dead last Friday. An official report from Ada County coroner stated that the cause of death was traumatic head injuries, which have been determined as accidental.
A uniquely themed restaurant, Barbacoa is known for out-of-the-box art, high liquor sales, and delicious menu items. Alongside local artist Martine Castoro, Robert opened Barbacoa together in 2005. Robert sold the establishment in 2015.
Known by friends and family as being a strong leader, kind mentor, and always up for a good time, many in Boise are grieving Castoro’s passing. He leaves behind a legacy of pioneering a truly unique nightlife and dining experience in Boise. A truly heartbreaking loss, he will be missed by many among the Boise community.
