When news hit that Colorado Boulevard's soul-food haven, CoraFaye's Cafe, would be losing its lease this summer, many were worried that Denver would lose a culinary treasure. But owner Priscilla Smith put our minds at ease by finding a new address for her nationally known eatery. She reopened CoraFaye's this week at 16251 East Colfax Avenue in Aurora, barely missing a dinner service despite the difficulties that moving a restaurant entails.
The new restaurant, located on the second floor of the International Plaza shopping center, holds the same homey charm as the original, with colorful tablecloths, antique furniture and a scattering of vintage tchotchkes decorating the spacious dining room. A smaller private room, similarly decorated, is available for private parties, and balconies look out onto the tree-lined streets of this nearly rural section of Aurora.
Tonight Smith is hosting a grand-opening celebration from 6 to 9 p.m., with opening ceremonies from 6 to 6:45, followed by live jazz from Vince Wiggins & Company from 7 to 9.
After tonight, CoraFaye's will be open for lunch and dinner every day but Monday, with shortened hours from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. Check the daily specials board for belly-warming dishes like neckbones over rice, liver and onions, and beef oxtails.