Fonda Fina Hospitality, the Denver-based, Michelin-recognized group from Johnny and Kasie Curiel, is expanding its Alteño brand to several new locations. What Now Austin reported back in April on plans to bring the brand to Austin. And according to the restaurant’s website, a new location is also planned for Charleston.
According to coverage by Holy City Sinner, the new Alteño will open on the ground floor of the Charlee on Cannon, located at 89 Cannon St.
“We’ve always been inspired by Charleston’s vibrant restaurant community and strong sense of place,” Chef Johnny Curiel says in the Holy City Sinner coverage. “Much of my cooking draws from Mexico’s coastal traditions, so it feels natural to connect that with Charleston’s own deep coastal identity. We’re excited to highlight the region’s local ingredients through our cultural lens. For us, choosing Charleston was a deeply personal decision. The warmth and welcome we’ve already felt from this community make our family excited to call it our home away from home.”
The dinner menu in Denver features choices like Ostiones Nakaochi (Tuna Tartare / Sesame Ponzu / Habanero Oil / Fresh Lime), Carne Apache (NY Strip / Epazote Mostarda / Morita Potato Chips / Bone Marrow), and Chile Relleno (Huitlacoche Esquites / Tomato Frito / Avocado Crema / Pickled Onion).
“From the heart of Michelin-recognized Chef/Owner Johnny Curiel comes Alteño,” says the Alteño website. “Curiel’s newest creation pays homage to his Jaliscan Highland roots and traditions, incorporating a mix of heritage flavors and rustic preparations that spotlight the cuisine and culture of the iconic Los Altos de Jalisco. The spirit of Johnny’s restaurateur father, the original Alteño, is felt in the very soul of the restaurant.”
According to the Charleston location’s Instagram page, Alteño is working toward an Early Fall 2026 opening.
You can keep up with the opening by following @altenocharleston on Instagram.
