Even if you’re not staying at the famous Brown Palace Hotel & Spa, if you’re traveling to Denver, you must eat at least one meal at La Loma, located directly across the street from the luxury hotel in downtown Denver. Serving brunch, lunch, dinner, and a wonderful happy hour with $7 Margaritas, $5 well drinks, $7 and $8 wines alongside a variety of filling small plates, La Loma’s upscale Mexican cuisine is nothing short of exceptional.
Formerly located in The Highlands neighborhood for 30 years, La Loma was started by the Mendoza family in a small brick house. After being purchased by Sonny Brinkerhoff, the restaurant was moved to a nearby building which was created by combining three Victorian miners’ houses. As part of Brinkerhoff Hospitality, La Loma moved to its current location almost two years ago. A second location is planned to open in Castle Rock in 2019.
The entrance through a beautiful wrought-iron-gated outdoor patio is graced by a portrait of Grandma Mendoza just before entering the bar. Additional Mexican and early American-themed paintings line the walls throughout the sedately lit dining room.
We ordered homemade guacamole to go with our chips and salsa while perusing the menu, and practically licked the bowl clean. My friend feasted on chimichangas which came with a side of La Loma’s famous pork green chili—made with Select New Mexico fresh frozen green chile—rice and refried beans. I ordered the Acapulco Grilled Chicken salad with mango, pineapple, avocado, and jicama tossed in a light, tangy dressing, with chicken that was seasoned and grilled to perfection.
Lucky for us we live in Denver and can go back to La Loma again soon!
1801 Broadway (but the entrance is on Tremont)
Denver, Co 80202
303-433-8300
lalomamexican.com