What's our story?
Brought to life by Terry Walsh (the smoked meat mastermind behind Rolling Smoke BBQ), Chubby Unicorn is a love letter to fresh flavors, Baja vibes, and not taking life too seriously.
Inspired by its location in the middle of Denver’s RiNo Art District—famous for street art, bold ideas, and a certain horned mascot—we took a cue from an ‘80s cult classic and reimagined the rhino as a chubby unicorn with beach vibes and a love for tacos, tequila, and good times. Because really—what is a rhino, if not a chubby unicorn in disguise?
Located right across the plaza from Mission Ballroom, we’re your go-to for pre-show bites, post-show hangs, and all the in-between moments best spent with tacos and a marg in hand. Think contemporary Mexican-American fare: crispy carnitas, spicy nachos, next-level queso, and margaritas that don’t mess around. Add a splash of neon, a little unicorn magic, and a soundtrack worth staying late for.
We’re here to feed your cravings, host your hangs, and be your go-to spot before the lights go down across the street. So whether you’re taco-hunting, tequila-sipping, or just chasing good times—we saved you a seat.
You’re about to understand why we LOVE CHUBBY TACOS
What about the chef?
Mike began his culinary journey while attending the University of Kansas, working at the top restaurant in Lawrence. It was then that he realized he truly enjoyed the craft and decided to go to Culinary School. He packed his bags and went west to the Scottsdale Culinary Institute in Arizona. Graduating in 1998, he packed up again and moved to San Diego. In San Diego, Mike worked at the world-class La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club and Barbarella, where he became the Chef.
In 2002, he made the decision to come back closer to his family and landed in Denver. He worked at several restaurants, including Bang!, Trattoria Stella, and Mezzaluna in Vail. It was then in 2010 that everything changed, and he opened a food truck with longtime friend Michael Levine. Mike’s 2 (Squared) Kitchen was born, and they ran that until 2023. Terry Walsh and Mike would work together at events, and that’s where they come to The Chubby Unicorn Cantina. They were mainly a taco truck, and many of those ideas, plus new exciting recipes, people will be able to experience at Chubby Unicorn.