The long-awaited reopening of Casa Bonita, the iconic Colorado restaurant, is finally here. After a series of delays, lottery systems, and a highly publicized overhaul by “South Park” creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, Casa Bonita is set to fully open its doors to the general public in October 2024.
Reservations open to the public
In a recent announcement, Casa Bonita’s staff revealed that the lottery system, which had been the primary method for securing reservations, will be discontinued. Starting September 16, 2024, at 3 p.m. MST, reservations will be available directly through the restaurant’s official website. This change signals the end of months of anticipation, during which up to 600,000 people were reportedly on a waiting list to get a spot at the famed pink castle.
Greg Lewis, a local Casa Bonita fan, shared his excitement about the new reservation system. “I’ve been trying to get my son to Casa Bonita ever since the grand reopening last year, but I couldn’t get in. Now, it feels like there’s finally a real chance to experience it together.”
Reopening after a long wait
The restaurant, which has been a Colorado landmark since it first opened in 1974, was purchased by Parker and Stone in September 2021. The duo bought the struggling establishment after the previous owner faced potential closure due to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the reopening process was not without challenges, as employees voiced concerns about working conditions and the pace of the reopening.
The challenges faced by Casa Bonita’s management were underscored by an employee who described the reopening as a “masterclass in how not to open a restaurant.” Despite these hurdles, the management team emphasized that their goal was to open “well, not fast,” a sentiment echoed by culinary partner Dana “Loca” Rodriguez.
What’s new at Casa Bonita?
Visitors at Casa Bonita should expect enhancements to the menu and other surprise upgrades. Rodriguez shared her excitement for the public to experience the changes, noting, “We try to change nothing and improve everything and make sure when people just walk into the door, they want to come back.”
Starting October 1, 2024, guests will be able to book reservations without the need to prepay for tickets, a significant shift from the previous system. This change makes the dining experience more accessible and flexible, ensuring that Casa Bonita remains a beloved destination for both locals and tourists.
Casa Bonita: a Colorado treasure
Casa Bonita has long been more than just a restaurant, it’s a cultural institution. Known for its unique blend of entertainment and dining, it has been featured in countless local and national media outlets, further cementing its status as a must-visit destination in Colorado. The restaurant’s revival under the guidance of Parker and Stone has only amplified its cultural significance, drawing fans of both “South Park” and Casa Bonita from around the country.
Elaina Sidney, a visitor from Las Vegas, shared her excitement after visiting the restaurant for the first time. “I’ve been a fan of ‘South Park’ since middle school, and Casa Bonita has always been a place I wanted to see in person. I’m thrilled that I’ll finally be able to make a reservation and experience it.”
What to expect when you visit
As Casa Bonita gears up for its official reopening, the staff is working hard to ensure that the experience is as magical as ever. From the whimsical interior to the thrilling cliff diving shows, the restaurant promises to deliver the same charm that has made it a favorite for nearly 50 years.
For those who still have invitation links from the previous reservation system, you’ll be able to use them to book tables through September 30, 2024. After that, all reservations will be made through the new system, offering more flexibility and ease of access.
