colorado michelin star restaurants : Michelin has once again turned its spotlight on Colorado vibrant dining scene with the release of its 2024 Guide, showcasing a fresh batch of culinary stars. This year, Denver’s Alma Fonda Fina has made headlines by earning a prestigious Michelin star, adding a new gem to Colorado growing list of acclaimed restaurants.
Alma Fonda Fina: A Culinary Triumph
Opened in December 2023, Alma Fonda Fina has quickly made a name for itself with its innovative Mexican cuisine. The restaurant, located in Denver Lower Highlands neighborhood, has been celebrated for its creative reimagining of traditional flavors from Guadalajara. Chef and owner Johnny Curiel, who also helms Cozobi Fonda Fina in Boulder, has been recognized with the 2024 Michelin Guide Colorado Young Chef/Culinary Professional award.
Michelin inspectors praised Curiel skillful approach to Mexican cuisine, highlighting dishes such as perfectly crisped pork belly carnitas, agave-roasted sweet potatoes with nutty salsa matcha, and vibrant seafood crudos like Maine diver scallops with tomatillo and apple aguachile. According to the guide, the menu is filled with treasures” that showcase both technique and taste.
In a heartfelt statement, Curiel expressed his pride and joy, noting the significance of this recognition for both his team and Mexican cuisine. What once felt like a distant dream sharing my heritage through food—has now become a reality,” he said. This moment is a triumph not just for our team, but for our entire culture.”
MAKfam Joins the Ranks with a Bib Gourmand
In addition to Alma Fonda Fina star, Denver MAKfam has earned a Bib Gourmand, an accolade recognizing excellent food at great value. Opened in November 2023, MAKfam specializes in tradition-inspired Chinese cuisine. The eatery, owned by husband-and-wife duo Kenneth Wan and Doris Yuen, was noted for its flavorful fried crab and cheese wontons, hand-shaped chicken and chive potstickers, and inventive dishes like corned beef fried rice.
The Michelin guide commended MAKfam for its vibrant space and authentic dishes that reflect the owners’ Chinese American heritage. Wan, who was also a semifinalist for the James Beard Emerging Chef” award, and Yuen have created a dining experience that resonates with both familiarity and innovation.
Colorado Michelin Landscape
The 2024 Michelin Guide to Colorado continues to shine a light on the state’s diverse culinary landscape. Alongside Alma Fonda Fina and MAKfam, other Colorado restaurants retained their Michelin stars, including Frasca in Boulder, Bosq in Aspen, and Denver Brutø, Beckon, and The Wolf Tailor. The guide now features a total of 46 restaurants, including those with Green Stars and Recommended spots.
Michelin also recognized exceptional individuals in the Colorado culinary community. Jessenia Sanabria of Sweet Basil in Vail won the Michelin Exceptional Cocktails award, Chris Dunaway of Element 47 in Aspen received the Michelin Sommelier award, and Allison Anderson of Beckon in Denver was honored with the Michelin Outstanding Service award.
While the Michelin Guide did not add new hotel keys this year, it expanded its list to include 31 Selected” hotels, ensuring travelers can enjoy high-quality stays across Colorado.
Looking Ahead
As the Michelin Guide celebrates its second year in Colorado, the guide continues to highlight the state burgeoning food scene and the passionate professionals behind it. With new additions and ongoing recognition, Colorado remains a destination for culinary excellence, showcasing a blend of innovation and tradition that keeps the dining experience fresh and exciting.
