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Garcia's Mexican Restaurant

By Keirsten Bartley, Posted on 01 Oct, 2022 at 10:10 pm

Garcia's Mexican Restaurant

Garcia's Mexican Restaurant in Denver's Tech Center was more than just a place to grab a meal; it was a community hub that brought together people from all walks of life. From celebrating birthdays with tequila shots and enchiladas to enjoying a casual evening with a green corn tamale, Garcia's offered an experience that went beyond the food. The restaurant's closure on May 14, after 27 years of operation, marks the end of an era for many locals who considered it their go-to spot for quality Mexican cuisine and unbeatable happy-hour deals.

Located conveniently near the Belleview light-rail station, Garcia's made it easy for patrons to enjoy two-for-one drinks, including margaritas, from 3 to 7 p.m. and then safely head home via public transit. The restaurant's strategic location in the heart of the Tech Center made it a popular choice for those living south of Hampden Avenue.

Owner Jovita Amador announced the closure on the restaurant's Facebook page, thanking patrons and the landlord for nearly three decades of loyalty. The building that housed Garcia's will be torn down and replaced with office space, a change that reflects the evolving landscape of the Denver Tech Center. Since the announcement, customers have been sharing their favorite memories and dishes on social media, highlighting the emotional connection many had with the restaurant.

The restaurant's interior added to its charm. Porcelain parrots and mariachi puppets adorned the space, while the bar's booths were designed to resemble tiki huts, offering a unique and cozy atmosphere. For those still coping with the loss, Garcia's provided an opportunity to own a piece of the restaurant through a memorabilia and equipment auction held on May 24. From ovens to painted pottery, the auction allowed patrons to take home tangible memories of a place that meant so much to so many.

For those missing the flavors of Garcia's, there are a couple of options. One is to visit other Garcia's locations, mostly found in Arizona, to get a taste of something similar to Amador's cooking. The other option is to embrace nostalgia and keep an eye out for any future endeavors by Amador and her kitchen staff, who have left an indelible mark on the Denver food scene.

The closure of Garcia's Mexican Restaurant leaves a void not just in the culinary landscape but also in the hearts of its patrons. The restaurant was not merely a place to eat; it was a place where memories were made, where waiters posed for photos with Guardians of the Galaxy cosplayers, and where a community found a home. The Denver Tech Center will undoubtedly feel the absence of this beloved establishment for years to come.

 

Top Restaurants in Denver That Are Worth a Visit!

Denver, the Mile-High City, is not just a gateway to the Rocky Mountains but also a burgeoning culinary hotspot that marries tradition with innovation. Nestled within its scenic landscapes and urban sophistication are hotels that house some of the city's most delectable dining establishments.

These hotel restaurants offer more than just convenience; they serve as culinary destinations in their own right, each presenting a unique flavor palette that reflects both local and international tastes. 
 

1. Panzano - Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver

Cuisine Type: Italian
Located in the heart of downtown Denver, Panzano offers an authentic Italian dining experience. The restaurant features a modern, chic ambiance and serves dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
 

2. EDGE Restaurant & Bar - Four Seasons Hotel Denver

Cuisine Type: Steakhouse
EDGE Restaurant & Bar specializes in prime cuts of steak and fresh seafood. The restaurant boasts a contemporary design and offers an extensive wine list to complement your meal.
 

3. The Nickel - Hotel Teatro

Cuisine Type: American
Situated in Hotel Teatro, The Nickel focuses on locally sourced, farm-to-table American cuisine. The restaurant offers a cozy, rustic setting and features a charcuterie station and a barrel-aged cocktail program.
 

4. Elway's Downtown - The Ritz-Carlton, Denver

Cuisine Type: Steakhouse
Named after the legendary John Elway, this steakhouse offers a luxurious dining experience. Elway's Downtown serves USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list.
 

5. Courier - Grand Hyatt Denver

Cuisine Type: American
Courier offers a modern take on classic American dishes. The restaurant features an open kitchen concept and a menu that includes everything from burgers to sophisticated entrees.
 

6. Narrative - The Jacquard Hotel & Rooftop

Cuisine Type: Modern American
Narrative provides a modern twist on American classics. The restaurant offers a relaxed, elegant setting and features a diverse wine list and craft cocktails.
 

7. Corinne - Le Méridien Denver Downtown

Cuisine Type: American
Corinne focuses on simple, honest American comfort food. The restaurant offers a casual, welcoming atmosphere and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
 

8. Urban Farmer - The Oxford Hotel

Cuisine Type: Farm-to-Table Steakhouse
Urban Farmer takes a modern, farm-to-table approach to the traditional steakhouse. The restaurant features a rustic design and offers a variety of cuts, including grass-fed options.
 

9. FIRE - The ART Hotel Denver

Cuisine Type: Contemporary American
FIRE offers a unique blend of art and culinary expertise. The restaurant features an open-air terrace and serves a diverse menu that includes seasonal and local ingredients.
 

10. Palace Arms - The Brown Palace Hotel

Cuisine Type: Fine Dining
Palace Arms offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on international cuisine. The restaurant features an elegant, historic setting and offers a tasting menu with wine pairings.
 

Each of these restaurants offers a unique dining experience, making them perfect options for both locals and visitors looking to explore Denver's culinary scene. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty steak, fresh seafood, or farm-to-table fare, you'll find something to satisfy your palate.

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About Author

Keirsten Bartley

Keirsten left her career in engineering to travel the world. She is a 28 years old girl with some tremendous girl power; she has been traveling for five years now and has been producing awesome content based on her experience. 

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