A new restaurant concept is coming to Denver’s RiNo neighborhood, where chef Ed Arai is bringing together Asian flavors, Mexican influences and a casual approach to dining.
Señor Tanuki is planned for 3001 Brighton Blvd., inside the Fabrica building. According to Arai, the expected opening date is in late fall.
Arai who is the owner said it will be a fast casual Japanese Mexican concept. Arai, whose culinary background includes working in kitchens under Wolfgang Puck, is building the concept around food that is approachable but still feels a little different from the usual fast-casual lineup.
“It’s going to have a cocktail bar and a coffee bar, and affordable food for the neighborhood. Like, kinda changing the game up a little bit. It is a really great place for what we’re trying to do with the demographics and the neighborhood, the traffic,” he said.
The menu will include bento-style bowls, along with dishes that blend Japanese and Mexican influences. One example is a mushroom dashi corn tortilla, which brings Japanese ingredients and techniques into a familiar taco format. Drinks will also be part of the experience, including yuzu margaritas and other cocktails designed to complement the food.
The concept has been described as an elevated take on the fast-casual model, giving diners the convenience of a quick meal while putting more attention into the ingredients and flavors.
