Chef Lorena Garcia brings her Top Chef flair to Aspen.
The Roaring Fork Valley just got a little bit hotter with the addition of Latin American-inspired restaurant CHICA.
Tucked inside the Residence at The Little Nell is Aspen’s hottest new eatery, CHICA. Pulling inspiration from its already established Miami and Las Vegas locations, the restaurant is complete with a full lineup of Latin American-inspired dishes, an award-winning wine and cocktail program and live entertainment. “I have been going to Aspen for years with my family and fell in love with the city,” tells CHICA founder and CEO John Kunkel. “I chose our CHICA dining concept because it was something new that the market was missing. I know that both locals and visitors alike will love the cuisine, design and vibe of what we offer at CHICA Miami and Las Vegas. With the restaurant positioned at the base of Aspen Mountain, it’s the perfect location for ski season.”
Inside, the restaurant showcases an indoor dining section, outdoor patio space, outdoor bar and, of course, breathtaking views of the mountain. “The design draws influence from Latin American colors and textures such as handmade tiles, bright accents and colonial-inspired ironwork,” says Kunkel. Designed by the Rockwell Group, a New York architecture and design firm known for its work at NOBU Hospitality, José Andrés’ Think Food Group and more, it’s safe to say this restaurant will look as good as it tastes.
Known for her roles on Top Chef Masters, America’s Next Great Restaurant and Univision’s Despierta America, celebrity chef Lorena Garcia has taken over the kitchen. With vibrant flavors at the heart of every dish, Garcia has come up with an eclectic mix of CHICA fan favorites and new Aspen-inspired bites. Kunkle shares, “Chef Lorena Garcia curated the menu with bold flavors of different Latin American cuisines as one culture, with influences from Venezuela, Peru, Brazil, Mexico and Argentina, and more.” Open year-round, guests are invited to stop by for a full menu that features breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch options—as well as après-ski and late night, of course.
As for what Kunkle is most excited for? “It’s Aspen! From our robust, flavorful menu to our live entertainment, I can’t wait to show folks what we do at CHICA. It’s undeniable that the restaurant will bring a new dynamic to Aspen’s nightlife scene. Our signature weekend event, CHICA Nights, provides a dining experience like no other—filled with live musicians, exotic performers and an animated lineup of DJs to dance the night away.” 501 E. Dean St.
Photography by: PHOTO COURTESY OF 50 EGGS HOSPITALITY
