Awards & Articles

The interior of the recently opened Mama Lolita's in Broomfield is nothing short of striking. Neatly lined rows of wooden tables sit beneath a hanging garden of vines dangling from the space's high industrial ceiling. Across the room from the sleek, all-white bar, tropical-looking plants drape over a chic lounge area next to towering windows. Yet even in this visual playground, owner Joe Mazzocco and the Mama Lolita's team find a way to let the food and drink take the spotlight.

Chef Joe Mazzocco’s love for cooking is rooted within his family, a clan who enjoyed sharing dish after dish of home-cooked meals together as a way of connecting. After growing up with Mexican family on his mom’s side and Italian on his dad’s, it was only natural for Mazzocco to chase after his dream of becoming a chef. His restaurant is named after and acts as an homage to his grandmother, Mama Lolita — a women who was a provider of both love and historic cuisine.

In the grand scheme of life’s disappointments, losing free carbs at restaurants may not rank quite as high as, say, getting passed over for a dream job or being left at the altar. But still, the fact that complimentary bread at restaurants and bars — as well as chips and salsa, popcorn, nuts and whatever else we used to gnaw on pre-meal — has become an endangered species is a dining downer.

This debut eatery from chef/owner Joe Mazzocco opened in July 2022 and brings together Mexican faves like ceviche, queso fundido, enchiladas, and a tight selection of tacos with an enticing array of tequila cocktails. With colorful ingredients, sourced locally whenever possible, its Mexican fare is elevated to delicious new heights and served in an unexpectedly charming space