Modern Mexican restaurant Tamayo will start a two-month renovation in January to its longtime Larimer Square location.
The two-story restaurant, 1400 Larimer St., will close its doors on New Year’s Day and reopen on March 4.
“When I first opened Tamayo on Larimer Square in 2001, I wanted to introduce modern Mexican cuisine to Denver,” said owner Chef Richard Sandoval in a Wednesday morning news release.
“Downtown Denver’s energy and growing culinary scene inspired me, and I knew this was the right block to share the flavors and traditions I grew up with. Tamayo has since become part of the fabric of Larimer Square and the community, and this renovation is an opportunity to honor our roots while embracing the city’s evolution. It’s not just a refresh; it’s a celebration of where we’ve been and where we’re going.”
Denver-based contractor and designer DeLorenzo Productions is working on the renovation for Tamayo.
The new space will take inspiration from Mayan culture with intricate stucco glyph tiles, woven grass textiles and hemp tassel chandeliers.
“We’ve focused on honoring the restaurant’s deep connection to the Denver community while introducing thoughtful details that elevate the dining experience,” said DeLorenzo Productions founder and owner Bart DeLorenzo.
Larimer Square became Denver’s first historic district in 1971 and it draws more than 4.5 million people each year, according to the news release.
As Tamayo begins its renovation, the timing aligns with the square’s transition into a new chapter.
“As we work to reimagine this historic block with a mix of legacy businesses and fresh additions, Tamayo embodies the vibrancy we are striving to bring back to the area,” said Ashley McDonald, senior director of development at Asana Partners, the owners of Larimer Square.
“We are excited for Tamayo to remain a cornerstone of this historic community.”
Tamayo will host a special celebration this New Year’s Eve to mark the final evening in its original setting before renovations begin.
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