The story
Chef Johnny Curiel’s Mezcaleria Alma brings the vibrant, innovative energy of Mexico City to Denver’s LoHi neighborhood. Located beside his first solo restaurant, Alma Fonda Fina, this sibling spot turns the focus from home-style comfort to the unbridled creativity that defines CDMX. The result is a seafood-forward, small-plates menu paired with an extensive Mexican spirits program—a combination that earned Mezcaleria Alma a Michelin Star in 2026, the guide noting its “high quality cooking.”
Curiel’s vision is rooted in his experiences in one of the world’s great culinary capitals. While Alma Fonda Fina pays homage to the traditional fondas of his childhood, Mezcaleria Alma captures the constant innovation and global inspiration of Mexico City today. “Each dish and drink draws from Curiel’s experiences,” the restaurant’s own story explains, “a city where culture and tradition merge with global inspiration and constant innovation.” The kitchen turns out small plates that are seafood-focused and inventive, while the bar showcases more than 120 agave expressions—mezcals, tequilas, and beyond—each chosen to complement the food.
The atmosphere mirrors the dynamic spirit of its inspiration: lively, unpretentious, and anchored by a serious cocktail program. Diners can expect a contemporary Mexican menu that changes with the seasons, built around bold flavors and precise technique. The bar is as much a destination as the dining room, with a spirits list that rewards exploration. Whether you’re stopping in for a few plates and a perfectly poured mezcal or settling in for a full evening, Mezcaleria Alma delivers the energy of Mexico City without leaving Denver.
Recognition
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