Alteño

The Best New Restaurants in Denver Right Now, Spring 2025 | Eater Denver

"How does Johnny Curiel do it? Marking his fourth opening in just over a year, this Cherry Creek hot spot is every bit as fabulous as its siblings Alma Fonda Fina, Cozobi Fonda Fina, and Mezcaleria Alma, though it’s got a personality all its own. In the low-lit, handsome den-like space, the kitchen turns out dish after dish of refined Mexican fare, including kanpachi crudo tostadas with uni and avocado, queso fundido reimagined with wild mushrooms al ajillo and pasilla salsa, and slow-cooked lamb shank with guacachile and garbanzo consommé alongside handmade tortillas. And the beverage program’s equally suave: While stylish cocktails such as the Old Fashioned with pepita-washed tequila, cardamom, and mole bitters go without saying, a larger-than-expected list of wines by the bottle ups the ante for date night." - Ruth Tobias