On a mission to share the beauty of Mexican culture through food, Chef Johnny Curiel debuts his first solo restaurant, Alma Fonda Fina (2556 15th Street), with contemporary Mexican fare that pays homage to his culturally rich heritage and decades of storied experiences in his home country. Hand-in-hand with his wife Kasie Curiel, a tenured hospitality professional, Alma Fonda Fina opens in Denver’s historic Lower Highlands neighborhood on December 8th.
“In Spanish, Alma translates to soul while Fonda Fina describes a humble neighborhood spot for friends and family to gather,” shares Chef Johnny Curiel in a statement. “Our mission is to create a space and menu that are heavily influenced by family and pride in Mexican culture.”
After growing up in his father’s restaurants in Mexico, Curiel embarked on his lifelong culinary journey. At age 18, Curiel went on a culinary immersion to Mexico with a simple mission: to unearth the heart and soul of his country’s rich and diverse cooking traditions. His journeys took him from bustling restaurants and street food stands to abuelas’ home kitchens, learning age-old techniques and wisdom of generations along the way. Alma Fonda Fina is dedicated to sharing the integrity, tradition and culturally rich experiences that defined Curiel’s journey.
Chef Curiel makes his solo restaurant debut after years in kitchens with Richard Sandoval, Dave Query and Denver’s Troy Guard.
A chef’s counter doubled as a bar allows guests to see where every creation, cocktail or main course, is plated and prepared to create a feeling of connection to Chef. Alma’s opening menu includes:
- Frijoles Puercos Chorizo Rojo Links, Chile De Arbol Salsa Verde, Sourdough Flour Tortillas, Queso De La Casa
- Aguachile De Chile Fresno Adobo Seared Kanpachi, Roasted Pineapple, Tepache Oil
- Carne Apache En Su Jugo Warm Bacon Vinaigrette, Charred Scallions, Tomatillo Chilled Brodo, Chiles Toreados
- Camote Asado Agave Roasted Sweet Potato, Broken Salsa Macha, Whipped Requeson
- Birria De Borrego Adobo Braised Lamb Shank, Serrano White Onions, Salsa De Guacachile, Refried Corn & Beans
Alma Fonda Fina is opening with a chef-led cocktail program rooted in seasonal ingredients native to Mexico and craft spirit brands from Oaxaca and Guadalajara. Opening cocktails such as the Avocado Margarita, Oaxaca Old Fashioned and Guava Mezcalita debut alongside a robust menu of Mexican wines, and an extensive Mezcal list.
Located in the heart of Lower Highlands, the corner location has expansive windows and a dining room that seats 38.
Imagined by local designer Agatha Strompolos, Alma Fonda Fina’s heart and soul come alive through moments of familiarity and history. Terracotta tile is the focus of the bar and sets the tone for the space. In lieu of a traditional bar, 8 seats line a fully immersive Chefs’ Counter where guests connect with the kitchen and watch the team at work. Texture and warmth continue through the restaurant with a wall of reclaimed wood, — sourced from the oldest building in Denver — clay-inspired wall treatment, and an abundance of plants.
Alma Fonda Fina is located at 2556 15th Street, Denver Colorado 80211. The restaurant is open everyday for happy hour from 2-4pm and dinner from 4pm-11pm. A special brunch service will start in January.
