Esquire published its list of the 33 ‘best new restaurants in America’ for 2025 on December 1, and just like that, multiple Colorado restaurants again got a major nod on the national level.

Both Colorado picks have gotten their fair share of acknowledgement in recent months, and they’re spots that those familiar with the Mile High City cuisine scene probably know well – Alteño and Kizaki.

Alteño is part of the Fonda Fina Hospitality family and another award-winning creation from Chef Johnny Curiel, the man behind acclaimed Alma Fonda Fina. Alteño is designed to pay homage to Curiel’s Jaliscan Highland roots, with the menu featuring a diverse list of protein options like lamb shank, halibut, ribeye, and fire-roasted chicken – each dish with a creative twist. The spot is also known for its many tequilas and mezcals, as well as a wine list overseen by the restaurant’s in-house sommelier.

Alteño has a 4.7-star rating on Yelp, with patrons raving about the pan de elote, the carne asada, and the crab-stuffed mushroom.

Another Colorado spot to be featured on Esquire’s list – also located in Denver – was Kizaki, named after chef Toshi Kizaki. Chef Kizaki defines his restaurant as “a revival of the centuries-old art of edomae sushi,” with the spot known for serving food omakase-style – or in other words, it’s ‘chef’s choice.’

“His omakase menu unfolds through approximately 20 courses, showcasing fish prepared using a range of edomae techniques—including raw, cured, seared, and dry-aged preparations,” reads the restaurant’s website. “The same meticulous care that defines Chef Kizaki’s fish preparation extends to every ingredient he selects.”

Kizaki has a 5-star rating on Yelp, and based on the reviews, it sounds like it’s a spot that offers the perfect sushi experience.

Find the full list of Esquire’s ‘best new American restaurants of 2025’ here.

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