El Tule Mexican Cuisine and Bar Walking Tou
June 27, 2026
DAF Member tickets go on sale on June 6 at 4PM MST. Pending availability, non-member tickets go on sale June 13 at 4PM MST. DAF Membership will be verified upon ticket purchase. Click here to become a DAF member.
About the tour: Join us as we take an inside look at the design and architecture of El Tule Mexican Cuisine and Bar. This experience will provide insight into the design intent, development process, and key architectural elements that shape the space, along with an introduction to the restaurant’s culinary and beverage program. Attendees will explore how the restaurant’s cultural inspiration and culinary identity informed the overall design, creating a cohesive and immersive environment. The tour will highlight the integration of materiality, lighting, and spatial flow, as well as the collaboration between architects, designers, and operators. Guests will also gain an understanding of how the menu and drink offerings complement the architectural concept.
About the building: El Tule Mexican Cuisine and Bar is located within a 14-story, mixed-use commercial building in Denver. The building is LEED Gold certified and was designed by Gensler Architects, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and high-performance design. The restaurant occupies the ground floor (Unit E), encompassing approximately 3,000 square feet. The space has been thoughtfully designed to create a vibrant and welcoming dining environment that aligns with both the building’s modern framework and the restaurant’s cultural narrative.
About the guides: El Tule Mexican Cuisine and Bar is owned and operated by Luis Alvarado Sr. and Luis Alvarado Jr. under Akari Franchises, a company based in Chihuahua, Mexico. The group owns and operates multiple restaurants throughout Mexico, and this location represents their first venture in the United States. They selected Denver for its diversity and dynamic food scene. The restaurant draws inspiration from the Árbol del Tule (Tree of Tule) in Oaxaca, Mexico, one of the oldest and largest trees in the world, symbolizing longevity, strength, and cultural heritage.
About the architects: EG Studio is a Denver-based design studio specializing in restaurant and hospitality design. Serving as the architect of record for El Tule, the firm played a key role in translating the project’s international design vision into a locally executed, code-compliant, and highly functional space.
Plataforma Architecture is a Chihuahua-based architectural firm specializing in restaurant interior design. Known for its culturally driven and concept-forward approach, the firm brings extensive experience in crafting immersive dining environments. The El Tule project marks their first work in the United States.
Accessibility: This tour will be fully accessible.
Refund policy: The Denver Architecture Foundation is a nonprofit educational organization. Ticket sales support the Foundation in continuing to provide quality events to the public. We are unable to provide refunds or credits for any reason less than 48 hours prior to the event.
Please note that DAF tours take place rain, snow or shine. If your tour includes an outdoor portion, please dress for the weather. DAF staff will contact all attendees directly should a tour be cancelled for any reason.