Patzcuaro's

Patzcuaro’s is named for a secluded mountain lake in Mexico, and like that lake, it remained a secret from all but a lucky few from its opening in 1978 until the neighborhood around it began to grow and change. In the 2000s, an influx of new residents in the Highland neighborhood fueled the cantina, originally called Taqueria Patzcuaro, to its own growth spurt. The exterior was modernized, a patio was added, and a new sign lit up West 32nd Avenue. But inside, the simple pine benches and traditional food of Michoacán didn’t change much. Meanwhile, such dishes as carnitas Michoacán, served in juicy chunks, and tacos albañil, with thin slices of potato, jalapeños and beef, continued to attract new fans. After nearly forty years on Denver’s north side, Patzcuaro’s is a fixture in this city’s Mexican-restaurant scene.