Latin Creations: Telluride’s Exciting New Culinary Offering
Alberto Tames and Aggie Unda-Tames to Open New Restaurant in April
In April, the space currently occupied by Esperanza’s Mexican restaurant will pass to Alberto Tames and his wife, Aggie. They plan to transform it into a full-scale restaurant—expanding their popular Latin Creations Telluride food cart into a new Main Street destination.
Latin Creations Food Carts to be Joined by New Flagship Restaurant
Esperanza contacted Alberto first to take over her lease because she “knew he was the ideal person to take over this lease,” she explained. “He’s always dreamed of opening a restaurant here, and I have no doubt he’ll excel.”
Since 2021, the Tameses food cart, Latin Creations has delighted locals, operating at Mountain Village Heritage Plaza and the Telluride Gondola Station Plaza. Their menu, inspired by “grandma’s recipes,” features classics like tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, tamales, soups, and homemade aguas frescas. Reflecting on his culinary roots, Alberto remembered, “I used to watch my grandma cook for her 13 kids and marvel at how she created such delicious meals despite the challenges.”
Latin Creations Owners’ Culinary Talents Won Second Place at Top Chef/Taste of Telluride
The Winning Dish Was A 100-Year-Old Traditional Dish Celebrating Mexico’s Independence
In August, the couple showcased their skills at the Top Chef/Taste of Telluride event, where they earned second place. Alberto described his entry: a 100-year-old traditional dish celebrating Mexico’s independence, The dish features roasted poblano pepper stuffed with ground beef, walnut cream, parsley, and a mix of dried fruit with pomegranate—a tribute to the colors of the Mexican flag.
Their new establishment, set to be called Latin Creations Restaurant & Bar, will broaden the existing menu. “We plan to add upscale taco options featuring ribeye, sirloin, and New York strip steaks, as well as specials, plus vegetarian and vegan choices,” Alberto said. He is committed to serving “100% authentic, traditional yet contemporary Mexican food.” The menu offerings will be rooted in the culinary traditions of Mexico City, where techniques and flavors from all 32 states converge.
Immersive Dining Reminiscent of Vibrant Street Food Culture of Mexico City
Plans Include Table-Side Preparations, Live Music
Alberto envisions an immersive dining experience reminiscent of the vibrant street food culture found in Mexico City. Guests can expect interactive table-side preparations—such as live guacamole-making—and maybe even a song or two from him. Last year, the couple’s cooking classes and demonstrations at the Ah Haa School left a memorable impression. They intend to continue hosting similar private dinners for small groups once the new space is ready. Despite the new venture, they will still operate the food cart and offer catering services.
More to Love: Music Nights, Happy Hours and Special Events for First Responders and Teachers
“I want to create a welcoming environment for locals—a place where you can enjoy high-quality food and drinks in a fun, relaxed setting,” Alberto said. He also plans to host music nights, happy hours, and special events for first responders and teachers. A transformed back room will serve as a speakeasy-style lounge for tapas, appetizers, and drinks. Private parties may even be able to book the room.
Soft Opening Slated For Cinco de Mayo
Renovation plans include fresh paint and new furniture to evoke a vibrant yet cozy steakhouse ambiance. Alberto’s goal is to have the restaurant open for the summer season. He has tentatively planned a soft opening on Cinco de Mayo—a perfect prelude to the bustling season for the local community.
Latin Creations Restaurant & Bar is set to serve lunch and dinner. They also plan to offer a Sunday Mexican brunch and flexible weekend hours to accommodate festivals, shows, and local events. They’re also considering offering grab-and-go breakfasts, depending on demand. For the latest updates on this exciting new venture, visit latincreationstelluride.com.