A new venture has been announced from the powerhouse pairing behind Fonda Fina Hospitality, Chef Johnny Curiel and Kasie Curiel. Denver Business Journal reports the couple’s latest concept in development is an intimate dining experience called Maize. It’s set to debut in the spring at 3455 Ringsby Court, Unit 105A in RiNo.
Maize will offer an 18-course Mexican tasting menu in a setting that accommodates only eight guests per seating, allowing the chefs to engage directly with diners. Guests will move throughout the space as the menu moves, beginning with a welcome drink at the entrance and traveling through stations featuring raw dishes, house-fermented specialties, and hot masa-based creations.
Its in-house masa program involves a partnership with the Masa Seed Foundation from Boulder, and the menu will also emphasize six unique moles. The beverage program will be inspired by Bozal Maize mezcal, derived from hand-harvested Mexican corn.
The Curiels have racked up rapid acclaim since forming their restaurant group two years ago. They currently own Alma Fonda Fina and Mezcaleria Alma (both Michelin-starred establishments), Cozobi Fonda Fina in Boulder (a 2025 Bib Gourmand winner), and Alteño in Cherry Creek (Michelin-recommended).
Looking ahead, the Curiels have several other developments in the works as well. In November, What Now teased a tapas and wine bar called Mar Bella Boqueria that they will open in Cherry Creek’s Clayton Hotel & Members Club, and the couple are also working on a restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina.
