Casa Bonita

Visiting my grandmother in Denver always included a trip to Casa Bonita, and I must have explored every inch of that place. It looks so tiny from the front, only to reveal a magical themed shangri-li on the inside. I liked their food a lot too. I loved the little flags you raised when you needed service, and staff with walkie talkies to keep those lines moving. No doubt one of my favorite places to eat ever!

I loved going here as a kid. We lived in Denver during the 1970s, and a trip to Casa Bonita was a special treat. I loved watching the cliff diver, the fire dancer, and the other shows.

There was also a really cool mine (underground) dining area. I remember the place had a really cool Spanish/American West feel. I also remember buying a kid’s surprise/grab bag. There was also a stuffed toucan near the gift shop.

I really want to go back and visit/eat there as an adult.

I had so much fun!

MMMM! Sopaipillas and Honey!

Oh my God, I can’t believe this place is real. There are obvious reasons why I want to go here..made even more famous by that episode of South Park. Oh man, this is unbelievably rad.

delightfully tacky! the microwaved mexican food is served up cafeteria-style and is overpriced. still possibly my favourite restaurant in denver! a must-see for any south park fans!

I love Casa Bonita every summer for my sisters birthday we always go. Watch out for the crazy gorilla!

Well, I know I know what first comes to mind when someone mentions Casa Bonita, but alot of people just repeat what others have been told by others and so on and so on…….. The food is really not all that bad. I think the whole “Food Sucks” thing started by parents who made than a quick excuse not to take their kids there. I agree that it is not 5 star cuisine, but for the price you really can’t go wrong.

The atmosphere is what makes Casa Bonita one of the best dining experiences in Denver. As a kid growing up I would look forward to going to this magical place on the west side. A trip to Disneyland was feasible maybe once every 10 years, but a trip to Casa Bonita is practical for anyone at anytime. As I got older It was hard for me to fathom that this place was located in a kind of worn down strip mall. Once inside those images of the dollar store and the check cashing place soon fade away and you are greated with a feeling of another world. I don’t care what anyone says, dining with a waterfall in the background in Denver is pretty unique. And it is this uniqueness that makes this a very cool place. If you not into any of the games and activities they have going on, just sit back in one of the cozy nooks surrounding the waterfall, have a margarita or three and just enjoy the tropical atmosphere.

At 37 years old, I dined there with a friend last night and had just as good of a time as when I was 10.

If your looking for something unique to Denver, then you must check Casa Bonita out!! Although it looks like Black Bart’s cave is in need of a facelift and a little maintenance, the Cliff Diver performance has drastically improved over the years.

Enjoy!! And don’t forget to save room for the Sopas!!!!

…I had one of the most fantastic dining experiences I’ve ever had. We sat directly behind people who were cliff diving.

Apparently, my first memory is of this place. I’ve always wanted to go back to see if my memory is accurate or if it’s the result of some three year old messing things up in her head. : )