Casa Bonita

• Casa Bonita: A Coloradan Icon with a Rich History

Casa Bonita, which translates to "pretty house" in Spanish, is a Mexican restaurant located in Lakewood, Colorado, within the Lamar Station Plaza. Since its opening in 1974, it has become a beloved establishment in the Denver metropolitan area, celebrated for its unique ambiance and distinctive offerings.

• Origins and Expansion

The first Casa Bonita restaurant was founded by Bill Waugh in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, in 1968. Waugh's vision was to create a dining experience that combined authentic Mexican cuisine with immersive entertainment. By the mid-1970s, the concept had proven popular enough to support the expansion of the chain to neighboring states, bringing the "all you can eat" beef and chicken plates, along with the signature sopapillas—small squares of fried bread served with honey—to a broader audience.

• A Unique Dining Experience

Casa Bonita in Lakewood is particularly renowned for its eclectic and eye-catching décor. Described by The Denver Post in 2019 as a place where "its pink exterior conceals a vast network of nooks and crannies inside," the restaurant offers a visual feast that matches its culinary offerings. The main dining room is a multi-level space adorned with plastic palm trees and strings of lights, creating a festive and tropical atmosphere.

The restaurant’s most striking feature is a 30-foot indoor waterfall, complete with cliff divers who perform acrobatic dives into the pool below. This dramatic centerpiece is inspired by the famous cliffs of Acapulco, adding a touch of theatricality to the dining experience. Additionally, Casa Bonita’s design includes various themed rooms that reflect different regional Mexican architectural styles, including elements reminiscent of Puerto Vallarta. The building is crowned with a gold dome and a statue of Cuauhtémoc, the last Aztec emperor, further enhancing its distinctive character.

In March 2015, Casa Bonita was designated a historic landmark of Lakewood, underscoring its significance as a cultural and historical fixture in the community.

• Challenges and Revival

Like many businesses, Casa Bonita faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The restaurant temporarily closed in March 2020, and by April 2021, its owner filed for bankruptcy. The future of the restaurant seemed uncertain as it struggled to navigate the economic impacts of the pandemic.

However, a new chapter began later that year when Trey Parker and Matt Stone, creators of the popular animated show *South Park*, acquired Casa Bonita. Known for their deep affection for the restaurant and its place in Colorado's cultural landscape, Parker and Stone embarked on a major renovation project to revitalize the iconic establishment.

The renovation aimed to preserve the unique charm of Casa Bonita while updating its facilities and offerings. The restaurant's soft relaunch on June 23, 2023, marked a new era for Casa Bonita, with the establishment now proudly billing itself as "The Greatest Restaurant in the World!" The revitalized Casa Bonita continues to draw locals and visitors alike, eager to experience the charm and nostalgia of this historic venue.

• Conclusion

Casa Bonita’s journey from its origins in Oklahoma City to becoming a landmark in Lakewood, Colorado, reflects both its enduring appeal and the challenges it has faced. With its vibrant décor, memorable features, and rich history, Casa Bonita remains a cherished icon in the Denver metropolitan area. The recent revitalization by Trey Parker and Matt Stone promises to continue its legacy, offering a blend of traditional and contemporary experiences for a new generation of diners.