Ever since chef Michael Díaz de León left the newly Michelin-starred BRUTØ, to open his own concept, Denver foodies have been holding their breath. Now we can exhale—because he’s teamed up with fellow culinary powerhouse chef Tommy Lee (of Hop Alley and Uncle) to launch Molino Chido, a decidedly unpretentious Mexico City–inspired taquería. “The goal is to make simple, well-executed food that showcases traditional cooking techniques melded with bold flavors in a relaxed, energetic space,” Michael says, pointing out the glass-walled molino room where corn is nixtamalized in-house and pressed into tortillas. Those tortillas carry the hits: the juiciest carnitas, a mountain of mushrooms over spicy mole, or beef tongue that is both supple and structured. Ordering the entire taco menu is a power move we recommend pulling —especially alongside the bright, smoky paloma or a perfectly balanced margarita. And Tommy brings his signature Sichuan flair with XO sauce-drenched shrimp tacos that closer resemble fried dumplings, and frijoles deepened with miso instead of lard.
At the 18-top nearby, toddlers and parents were crushing tacos crafted by two Michelin-level chefs you’d never guess were behind the line—until you taste it. “We’re a restaurant for the people,” Michael says. “Kids, foodies, grandmas who like it spicy. We feed everyone.”
News Bites
1Johnny Bechamel’s
The team behind Dio Mio and Redeemer Pizza is leveling up: Johnny Bechamel’s lands in Wash Park, bringing Italian-American comfort, handmade pasta, and the group’s first full-service experience.
2Mar Bella Boqueria
Chef Johnny Curiel doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. This winter, keep an eye out for Mar Bella Boqueria at the Clayton Hotel & Members Club, an upcoming opening that will mark his fifth in three years. A departure from the Mexican heritage that defines his previous menus, this concept draws inspiration from his travels through Spain. Here, Johnny brings a jamoneríastyle chef’s counter and a conserva bar to Cherry Creek.
3Ma’s Kitchen
Ma’s Kitchen opens in City Park, offering soul-satisfying clay-pot specialties and bold stir-fries.
Happy Hour
Just 30 years ago, you would have gone to Stapleton International Airport to begin your journey, but today, the FlyteCo Tower is a destination in its own right. This historic tower has been totally reimagined as Central Park’s go-to hangout, bringing a lively brewery and old-school arcade together under one roof. Stop by for happy hour and snag half-off beer “flytes,” frozen and house cocktails, 10-inch pizzas, and games. Swing through on a Wednesday afternoon, and you can score some free mini golf. With three stories of good times, there’s something here for everyone.
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