Michelin Star Chef Planning New Mexican Concept

Chef Johnny Curiel and his wife and co-owner Kasie Curiel opened Alma Fonda Fina at 2556 15th St. last year. Now, it has a Michelin Star.

The husband-and-wife team now has a new concept in the works. They already expanded the brand to a second spot, called Cozobi Fonda Fina , which opened in Boulder in July. However, the team is looking to open a Mexico City-inspired restaurant in Denver soon, according to the Denver Business Journal.

The Curiels did not share further details on the upcoming yet-to-be-named concept, its exact location or a set timeline for opening.

Alma Fonda Fina, which opened in December, is a contemporary Mexican concept. The name is derived from “alma” — which means “soul” in Spanish — and “fonda fina,” which refers to a neighborhood gathering spot. The limited menu features items like taco mole verde and ribeye arriero.

Cozobi Fonda Fina also serves Mexican food, with a menu focused around traditional Mexican cooking methods, particularly a wood-fired grill with hickory. It features some of the same menu items as Alma Fonda Fina, along with other offerings. Both spots feature a wine, beer and cocktail beverage program, as well.

Johnny, who is from Mexico, aims to honor his Mexican roots in both concepts. He has experience working in kitchens in Mexico as well as local spots like Guard + Grace, Los Chingones and Mr. Tuna. It is expected that the new Mexico City-inspired concept will draw from his experiences working in restaurants in Mexico.

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