The Carmine’s Story

In February of 1994 a young man with some help from his family opened a new family style Italian restaurant named Carmine’s on Penn.  This was a fresh concept for Denver and quickly became a popular neighborhood eatery.  Within a few years though, the ownership changed.  

 

In 2006, the keys were handed to me, and we worked hard to build on the quality and reputation of the popular restaurant.  A new kitchen and a facelift marked a new era.  Local artist Kerry Kice did top to bottom work on the dining interior.  Her iconic, oversized Italian Poppy murals adorn three locations at Carmine’s.  New furniture, new lighting, new, new, new to the gracious old building.  We honor the tradition which is the basis of Carmine’s by offering shared dishes.  We like to say, “generous flavor and generous portion.”  Late in 2019 I was enticed to open a second restaurant, Carmine’s on McGregor Square.  We opened in June of 2021 and happily carry our concept to downtown Denver welcoming a new clientele.  And who did the striking interior art?  Kerry of course.  

 

But what is a restaurant without people?  Many guests and employees have shared Carmine’s with me over the years.  I have watched engagements, weddings, first dates, new babies and growing children pass through our doors.  Employees who stayed five years, ten years, and more.  Employees who went on to be educators, medical professionals, diplomats, entertainers and follow their dreams.  How many guests have said to me “we used to live just around the corner” and “this was our local place when we lived here.”  I even heard this during a chance meeting with a former guest in a small Mexican village.  

 

Warmest thanks to our guests from day one to today.  Warmest appreciation for our employees through the years working hard to make this a good business.  We only exist because of these people celebrating, working, laughing, complaining, smiling and coming back tomorrow.  

 

Only at Carmine’s.  Garlic Knots, Chicken Montana, Pasta alla Carmine’s, Vodka Sauce, Crayons, Caesar Salad and Cheesecake.  Maybe a little too much wine.  We are still here for you.  See you soon,

 

Happy Birthday Carmine’s!

 

Brad Ritter