You’re walking through downtown Denver, specifically past the historic Brown Palace Hotel, and you catch a scent. It’s smoky, it’s spicy, and it smells like a kitchen that has been running for fifty years without a break. That’s La Loma Restaurant Denver.
But here’s the thing: if you think you know La Loma because you went there a decade ago in the Highlands, or because you saw the sign in Castle Rock, things have changed. A lot. Honestly, it’s been a wild few years for the Brinkerhoff family and the legacy of Grandma Savina Mendoza.
The Great Split: A Tale of Two Chilis
Most people don't realize that as of late 2024 and 2025, there was a massive shift in the ownership and branding of this Denver staple. Following a divorce within the Brinkerhoff family, the restaurant empire essentially split down the middle.
If you go to the famous spot at 1801 Broadway (across from the Brown Palace) or the location in Castle Rock, you might notice a new name on the door: Savina’s Mexican Kitchen. This change happened in September 2025 to differentiate it from the other branch of the family.
Meanwhile, the La Loma name you know and love still lives on. Renée Brinkerhoff and her son, William Jr., now exclusively own and operate the La Loma brand, including the locations in Parker, McGregor Square (near Coors Field), and the brand-new Denver Tech Center spot that opened in August 2024.
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Kinda confusing? Definitely. But here’s the good news: both sides of the family are using the same legendary recipes that made them famous in the first place.
Why People Obsess Over This Green Chile
You've probably heard someone in Colorado argue about green chile. It's basically a state sport. La Loma Restaurant Denver (and now Savina's) serves a version that is divisive for some but a religious experience for others.
It’s thick. It’s almost like a pea soup in texture—velvety, rich, and loaded with tender chunks of pork. It isn't that thin, watery stuff you find at some street taco joints. It’s a "stick to your ribs" kind of gravy.
- The Tortillas: They make them in-house, and they are huge. These aren't your grocery store corn disks. They are thick, buttery flour tortillas that arrive warm and puffy.
- The Rellenos: They serve "crispy" style rellenos. If you're a purist who only likes the soft, egg-battered version, this might be a shock. But that crunch? It’s addictive.
- The Margaritas: They don't mess around with premade mixes. It’s fresh lime, agave, and a tequila selection that would make a collector weep.
What to Actually Order (Expert Tips)
If it’s your first time, don't just get a taco. That’s a rookie mistake. You’re here for the heavy hitters.
The Anniversary Plate is basically a "greatest hits" album on a platter. You get a stuffed sopapilla, a chile relleno, and a chicken flauta. It’s a lot of food. Like, "take a nap in your car afterward" kind of food.
If you want something a bit more refined, the Carne Guisada is incredible. It’s sirloin tips grilled in a spicy jalapeño and tomato salsa. It has a bite to it, but the flour tortillas help act as a fire extinguisher.
The Vibe Shift: From Houses to High-Rises
For decades, La Loma lived in three historic Victorian houses on 26th Avenue in Jefferson Park. It felt like eating in your cool aunt’s living room. When they moved downtown in 2016, people were worried. Would the soul of the place survive the move to a polished, high-ceilinged space in the Trinity Place building?
Surprisingly, it did. They kept the brick, the warm lighting, and that massive portrait of Grandma Savina that watches over the dining room. It’s upscale enough for a business lunch but still feels like a place where you can bring the kids and not feel awkward when they drop a chip.
The newer McGregor Square location has a much more "pre-game" energy. It’s right by the stadium, so it gets loud, fast. If you want a romantic anniversary dinner, go to the Broadway location. If you want to drink a pitcher of margaritas before a Rockies game, McGregor is your spot.
Realities of Dining at La Loma 2026
Let’s be real for a second. La Loma Restaurant Denver isn't the cheapest Mexican food in town. You’re going to pay a premium for the location and the "fine-dining" approach to Tex-Mex.
- Parking: Downtown parking is a nightmare. Always has been, always will be. Use the valet at the Broadway location or find a garage; don't even bother circling for a meter unless you have the luck of a lottery winner.
- Reservations: In 2026, you basically need one. Even on a Tuesday night, the wait can be an hour. They use OpenTable, so just book it a few days in advance.
- The Heat: Their green chile is generally "medium." If you're a spice-head, ask for a side of chopped fresh serranos. If you’re sensitive to heat, maybe stick to the red chile or the queso.
Actionable Next Steps
- Check the Name: Double-check if you are going to a "La Loma" (Parker, McGregor, DTC) or a "Savina's" (Downtown, Castle Rock) so you don't end up at the wrong place for your reservation.
- Order the Mini Rellenos: If you aren't ready for a full plate, the mini rellenos appetizer is the perfect way to test the waters.
- Watch the Tortilla Station: At most locations, you can actually watch them press and cook the flour tortillas. It’s strangely hypnotic.
- Happy Hour: They still run a solid happy hour (usually 3 PM – 6 PM), which is the best way to try the tequila without destroying your bank account.
The landscape of Denver dining changes every week, but the fact that a recipe from the 1970s is still causing family feuds and hour-long waits in 2026 says everything you need to know. Whether you call it La Loma or Savina’s, just make sure you get the green chile.