Johnny Curiel of Cozobi Fonda Fina

Raised in a family of chefs in Guadalajara, Mexico, Johnny Curiel began his culinary journey at age 14 in his father’s restaurant, deepening his roots through an exploration of Mexico’s diverse kitchens, from street vendors to abuelas’ homes. He went on to cook across the U.S. and Mexico before joining Colorado's culinary scene and later consulting nationwide.

Curiel’s solo debut, Alma Fonda Fina, earned a MICHELIN Star, was named one of Esquire’s Best New Restaurants in America (2024) and is a James Beard Award Finalist (2025). He has since opened MICHELIN Bib Gourmand Cozobi Fonda Fina in Boulder and MICHELIN one-starred Mezcaleria Alma (New York Times Best Restaurant 2025, Bon Appétit Best New Restaurant 2025) and MICHELIN-recommended Alteño in Denver.

My Perfect Day in Boulder

• Start the day with a hike at Mount Sanitas to take in some of the scenery before heading to Blackbelly Market for a burrito and a coffee to start the morning right. 

• Enjoy lunch with the family at Pizzeria Alberico and take a nice walk down Pearl Street.

• Happy hour at Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar is always a great option downtown. 

• You cannot go wrong with dinner at Basta, a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand selection where Italian American comfort food is cooked on a wood fire.