October 15th, 2012 
Juanita’s is more than just a typical Mexican joint in the trendy Baker neighborhood, it is a place of delightful dishes and innovative drinks and a place to tell the tale of Chef Dylan Moore’s first love for food.
(Photo Credit: Juanita’s)
As a teenage boy, Chef Moore worked his first job in the original Juanita’s in Boulder. From Juanita’s, he was intrigued by the cultural aesthetics of Latin food and eventually became an executive chef in a Mexican restaurant in San Francisco. Now in Denver, Chef Moore has opened up several local favorites including Deluxe, a go-to dinner spot for the foodies. As he continues to grow his brand, he has been looking to create a place where Denverites can relate, hence the re-birth of Juanita’s.
Situated among other notable eateries such as Beatrice and Woodsley, Juanita’s is what Chef Moore describes as a “fun and casual restaurant our neighbors are looking for, and will enjoy.” It is perfect for friends and family to get together on a cool evening and can also accommodate large parties.
Juanita’s decor is simple with old Mexican movie posters placed throughout the restaurant as well as the original sign of Juanita’s. Light fixtures are bright enough to be able to see the menu but dim enough to relax and enjoy good company. Service is friendly, but can be slightly slow on a full night. However, there is never a frown among the staff.
Stuffed Poblano Chile, Mussels, Trio of Salsas. (Photo Credit: Tiffany Chin)
All items on the menu are house-made including the trio of salsa – a true testament that makes or breaks a Mexican restaurant – which are roasted tomatillo, pineapple-chipotle and fire roasted tomato. All three are distinctive in flavor but never overwhelm the taste buds. Some items you’ll find traditional but others have a slight twist, such as the mussel dish which has an unforgettable broth of chipotle cream, pico, cilantro and scallion, it is a must for all seafood lovers. Be sure to request their house-made sauces as most of their dishes do have a softer profile, like the black bean soup, but it allows you to create the flavor that best suits you.
The drink menu, created by mixologist Nicole Morris, is most certainly abundant in choices. The drug mule made with blue nector reposado, fresh lime juice, ginger simple, bitters and ginger ale is a top choice. Other creations include coconut margarita, cowboy sangria and tequila negroni, or traditional drinks like sangria, mojito or Moscow mule.
Make your way to Juanita’s and enjoy plates of home-made freshness and notable drinks. Happy hour, dinner or late-night indulgence – it doesn’t matter! Juanita’s is always happy to delight you.
WHERE:
Juanita’s
32 S. Broadway
Denver CO 80209
Ph. 303-722-1278
HOURS:
Tuesday-Thursday: 4 p.m.-Midnight
Friday-Saturday: 4 p.m.-2 a.m.
Happy Hour Tuesday-Saturday: 4-7 p.m.
