History of La Loma

La Loma began as a family-owned Mexican restaurant in a small brick house just a block away from what became our landmark location for over thirty years, on 26th Ave in Denver. Sonny Brinkerhoff loved the original restaurant, and in 1981, he and his son, William, relocated La Loma from its small house to its flagship location where it has resided ever since. The building was created by combining three Victorian miners’ houses dating from the 1800s, called The Colonial, The Victoria, and The Cantina. The hilltop restaurant with a view of downtown soon became a Denver staple. Sonny and William, along with Savina Mendoza, created a menu of Tex-Mex and Mexican favorites that showcased the flavors of the Southwest, featuring award-winning dishes like our renowned green chili, signature margaritas, and fresh tortillas, which are made on display in the dining room.

Now, La Loma has moved to the heart of downtown across from the historic Brown Palace. We offer the same menu and many of the decorative touches our loyal guests have loved for decades including exposed brick with wooden accents, large, stained glass windows, and the photo of Savina Mendoza. “The restaurant is filled with character and charm,” according to Mark Brinkerhoff, William’s son, who joined his father in running the restaurant in 2005. La Loma’s famed barrel-aged tequila is still in the bar, and the atmosphere continues to be cozy and warm, welcoming parties of any size to enjoy their favorite dishes.

La Loma’s goal is to make wonderful food accessible to all of Denver and beyond. The Brinkerhoff family strives to maintain simply great food and provide world-class hospitality to their guests. La Loma will remain consistent for everyone, from the families we have served for years, to Denver’s newest residents—not just serving them excellent food, but adding a whole new generation of loyal guests who count La Loma as part of their family tradition.