Happy Pride! We’ve got an amazing list of food and drink events happening around town this month, plus past interviews with queens Jessica L’whor and Felony Misdemeanor. They even share their restaurant recommendations.
In other news, spring and summer flavors are popping up all over town. We’re seeing dishes spiked with cardamom, asparagus, and even Flaming Hot Cheetos. Have a tip? Send us a note via Instagram or by emailing info@diningout.com.
The 411
La Diabla Thrives
According to BuisnessDen, chef and restaurant owner Jose Avila just bought the real estate next to his La Diabla Pozole y Mexcal restaurant in RiNo for $870,000. Avila, who also owns Malinche Audiobar in LoHo, purchased the addresses 2223 and 2227 Larimer Street. So far the chef hasn’t shared his plans for the properties, but given his slow growth of top Mexican hospitality concepts, we’re hoping they have something to do with food.
Casa Bonita is Dumb
The other week South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker took a seat on Jimmy Kimmel Live and basically said they wished they hadn’t bought the famous pink palace.
“It was a cool thing to do, but it was a really dumb thing to do,” Parker told host Jimmy Kimmel. “But knowing what we know now, there’s no way any smart business person would have done this.”
He added if they hadn’t rescued the worn down and grungy themed restaurant, no one else would have and it would be gone. But why did they put in close to $50 million into the landmark spot in the first place? You’ll have to watch the show, Season 7, Episode 11, to fully understand.
Re-opened With a New Bar
After a fire shut down Jack’s Modern Steakhouse at the beginning of the year, just a few weeks after it opened, the Lone Tree restaurant is back and running complete with a proper speakeasy to boot. Dubbed The Blind Tiger, the moody bar boasts a New Orleans-inspired theme, including the addition of slow jazz. While some of the bites will mirror the steakhouse above, the drinks on the menu will only be available there.
Asia Center Plans Withdrawn
After weeks of locals fighting for the future of the Asia Center on Federal Boulevard, the owners of the property have withdrawn their demolition plans. Previously, it was announced the center would be torn down and turned into apartments, with the idea of having restaurant and retail space below. But where those tenets would go until then? That wasn’t discussed. For now they are safe in the spaces, though the future isn’t set.
On the Menu
Pride But Make it Bread
We stopped into Rosenberg’s Bagel and Delicatessen in the Stanley Marketplace today and found rainbow bagels. Though flashy, the bagel is plain and made special for Pride Month. You can find them at all locations through June.
Spring Ice Cream
Sweet Action celebrates the season with new, spring-themed flavors. Look for Lemon Cardamom Bar, Burn Honey Sesame Toffee, Flaming Cheeto Cheesecake, and more. Each of the four Denver parlors are scooping the goodies, be that at South Broadway (52 Broadway), Washing Park (1061 S. Gaylord St.), Jefferson Park (2851 W. 25th Ave.), or Uptown (530 E. 19th Ave.).
New Sharable Bites
Located on the 27th floor of Hyatt Regency Denver, Peaks Lounge debuted a lineup of Alpine-inspired shareables and desserts. Think Hamachi Crudo, Bison Barbacoa Tacos, Adobo Tenderloin Bites, and Aguachiles. On the sweet side, look for Abuelita’s Churros, Tres Leches, and Dulce Noir Cheesecake. Also check out the seasonal cocktail menu.
Don’t Miss This Week
Need some dining out recommendations? Try these three hot spots, and make sure to check out the week’s events.
Wednesday: Have you been to Johnny Bechamel’s yet? Chef and co-owner Spencer White took over our Instagram stories last week and now the need for pasta and pizza can’t be ignored.
Thursday: The Denver Center of Performing Arts is running Harry Potter and the Cursed Child right now, and we have a great list of Wizarding World inspired places to go. Feeling a little dark, so might tap into the Crypt today, or maybe get lost in a forest at one of the two tree-themed restaurants in writer Sarah O’Phelan’s article.
Friday: Heretik has been open a few weeks, and after a great meal last Friday, we’re heading back for the special (and addictive) sardines, Dry Storage bread with butter, perfect rotisserie chicken, and a glass of Txakolina.