🏙️ Is downtown Denver back from the dead?

🏀 Meet the O.G. Rocky

From 1990 until 2023, Kenn Solomon was the original larger-than-life persona underneath the Nuggets’ Rocky mascot costume — a character that drew national acclaim and unfettered loyalty from the fans. Now that Kenn’s retired, he’s sharing his story. [Westword]

🌮 Casa Bonita

Following an invite-only “pilot year,” Casa Bonita is finally accepting reservations for the general public — but with some big changes. Most recently, it debuted an(other) overhaul of the menu. [Denver Post 🔒]

• What else has changed? Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the new and improved Casa Bonita.

🔎 Denver Influencer Drama Deepens

When 9News investigative reporter Jeremy Jojola started digging into accusations that a popular food influencer was ripping off local businesses and fellow content creators, things got … messy. Here’s what he says he found. [City Cast Denver 🎧]

🏙️ DO Call It a Comeback!

Mayor Mike Johnston is officially ready to declare downtown Denver back from the dead, touting dramatic progress in his promises to curb crime, end unsheltered homelessness, and revitalize 16th Street Mall. [Denverite]

• When’s mall construction going to end anyways? This time next summer, according to Mayor Johnston. [CO Sun]

The Denver dining scene can sometimes feel like a revolving door with new restaurants/bars coming and going before you even have a chance to Google their menu. It can be dizzying to keep up with, and we don’t want you to miss a single meal. Here are just some of the newest openings we're excited about — and a few of the latest closures we're mourning (RIP) 👇

🎉 Openings

Secret Garden | 1290 N. Williams St. (Cheesman Park)

Opened Sept. 6

This charming all-day cafe is the crown jewel of the newly renovated historic Tears-McFarlane mansion. During the day, you’ll find lattes and light bites. In the evening, the space will take on swanky cocktail lounge vibes, complete with a full bar and charcuterie boards.

Church & Union | 1433 17th St. (Union Station)

Opened Sept. 27

This highly anticipated downtown debut marks outpost no. 4 for the uber popular Charlotte-based chain. The brand has established a reputation for converting unique historic structures, opting to take over Denver’s 128-year-old St. Elmo Hotel building. Church & Union’s signature “The Art of War” graffiti adorns the ceiling, alongside other interesting art pieces. An upscale menu boasts delicacies like braided ravioli, Colorado trout, and gourmet lamb burgers.

The Salty Donut | 3985 Tennyson St. (Berkeley)

Opened Sept. 30

A popular Miami-based transplant, this specialty doughnut shop whips up inventive creations on an ever-rotating made-from-scratch menu depending on the season’s ingredients and the buzziest culinary trends.

🪦 Closings

Comida | 2501 Dallas St. (Aurora)

Closed Sept. 22

Since debuting in 2010, this food truck-turned-success story became an instant favorite for satisfying taco cravings, with three locations at its peak. But Comida has officially shuttered its last-standing location in the Stanley Marketplace. Owner Rayme Rossello said she’s exiting the culinary world altogether, and looking forward to a new chapter in a different industry.

Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs | 3525 East Colfax Ave. (City Park)

Closing Oct. 19

It’s the end of an East Colfax era. At 70 years old, founder Steve Ballas says simply: he’s tired, and he wants to spend time with his wife. “It's been a very good twenty years,” he told Westword. “I've made a lot of people happy, and it's always better to go out on top." The space will be taken over by Mama Jo’s Biscuits & BBQ, which plans to add some signature Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs to its menu.

Fox Run Cafe | 3550 E. Colfax Ave. (Congress Park)

Closing Oct. 21

In the almost five years since opening at the peak of the pandemic, Fox Run Cafe has developed a loyal brunch-loving fanbase. Among reasons for closing, owner Lucien Reichert cited concerns over the impending BRT construction, tight profit margins, and wanting a break from the constant hustle. Stayed tuned for announcements about a grand farewell party.