"It's been a long time coming," says Jack Martinez Jr., whose father was the founder of Jack N Grill, a beloved Federal Boulevard eatery that was known for its burgers, New Mexican eats and massive seven-pound breakfast burrito. That location closed in 2018, but now he's brought the concept to the Boombox Brew Bar at 5686 Pecos Street.
"I have a big Jack N Grill tattoo — it's in my blood," says Martinez, who launched a mobile version of Jack N Grill 2 in 2022 whle he looked for a permanent space. He found it at Boombox Brew Bar, which took over the space once occupied by Ari's Tavern.
And in the Westword Facebook post of the news, fans of Jack N Grill shared their excitement. Says Michelle:
Wow! Loved the original Jack N Grill on Federal. Was so disappointed when they shut down. The tamales were AMAZING! Jack Sr. was such a nice person! Happy to support that family!Adds Hope:
Oh boy!!! I sure do miss the old joint on Federal! Best Mexican burgers. It's a bit further of a drive for me to get to the new place. But that may be a good thing.Offers Gary:
Actually tasted better than Chubbys. It'll be worth the drive down to 56th and Pecos.Responds Troy:
Awesome news! I was sad to see them close their doors. I used to get their packages of Christmas tamales, so hoping those are coming back, too.Wonders Erynn:
My lord… tell me we are gonna be able to purchase the homemade tortillas again!!!Recalls Nick:
Jack N Grill was my very first job. I remember going in there for the tacos and chile and one day asked for a job. I worked there for literally one day (I was a dumb teenager and got high and slept in for my second shift, showed up like three hours later like nothing happened); I can probably still tell you the layout with the see-through window. The most vivid thing I remember is the cook who lived upstairs. He taught me one of the most important lessons I’ve ever learned from a kitchen that still sticks with me every time I make an order at my restaurant (EAT HERE, home of the best cheesesteak in Denver and 89¢ Wing Sunday). He didn’t speak much English, but after I made my first plate, he grabbed it, threw it in the trash and made it in front of me all while repeating over and over again “Presentation, Presentation, Presentation.” I promise to all of you, I still to this day hear that man in my head telling me "Presentation. Presentation. Presentation" when making an order. I wish I could meet him if he was still around and tell him thank you!And Jay concludes:
"Tip dowwwwwnnn...THANK YOU!!!"
A double green chile cheeseburger is on the new menu.
Jack N Grill 2
