Why Denver’s Hottest Chef Walked Away From a Michelin Star
Chef Michael Diaz de Leon had a great 2023. For his work at the buzzy Mexican-inspired fine-downtown dining spot BRUTØ, he was nominated for a James Beard Award. Then one of his dishes appeared on the New York Times’ list of Best American Dishes of 2023. Then, in October, a Michelin star. So why did he quit? Producer Paul Karolyi sits down with Diaz de Leon to talk about why he left a Michelin star behind and what he’s cooking up next. Plus, Michelin wasn’t the only one-star review Diaz de Leon has earned, so Paul asked him to respond to some of BRUTØ’s one-star reviews on Yelp.
Diaz de Leon’s “taco omakase” pop-up at Hop Alley this month is sold out, unfortunately, but you can be first to know about his next project by following him on Instagram @michaeldleon.
While you’re waiting for his next pop-up, here are the spots where Chef Michael says he likes to eat:
- Hop Alley (RiNo)
- sắp sửa (East Colfax)
- Alma Fonda Fina (Highlands)
- Somebody People (South Broadway)
For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm.
Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver
Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver
What do you think? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418
Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:
Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Stay connected to City Cast Denver and get ready to join the local conversation.
Latest Episodes
Your Guide to All 8 Colorado Congressional Races (Part 2)
We’re back with part two of our conversation covering all the congressional races happening across Colorado — Republican strategist Kelly...
Your Guide to All 8 Colorado Congressional Races (Part 1)
What role will Colorado play if the anticipated “blue wave” overtakes this election? It depends on which congressional district you’re lo...
BRT Coming Soon to Federal Boulevard, Small Businesses and Amendment 87, and Tina Peters Free and on TV
After years of construction, the new bus rapid transit lane is finally open on one stretch of East Colfax, creating dedicated space for t...
Is Amendment 82 Coming for Your Gas Stove? Plus, the Biggest Halloween Fan We Know
Should your right to use natural gas — and for Xcel Energy to sell it — be put into the state’s constitution? Amendment 82 is asking vote...
‘Your City Could Be Better’: Is Chicago More Prepared for Climate Change Than Every Other City? — Presented By City Cast Denver
How prepared is Denver to deal with the effects of climate change? In a recent report, Chicago was ranked as the most climate resilient c...
Your Guide to Denver Ballot Measures! Plus, Rats at the Movies and Blucifer's Second Rodeo
Is your ballot still sitting on the kitchen table, staring at you? Fear not! We’re here to help. Today, Denver Post city government repor...
Your Guide to Colorado’s 2026 Statewide Ballot Issues
This year the state printed its largest ballot information guide ever! That means voters are weighing in on a lot of issues – everything...
Republicans for Weiser, Colorado and the Blue Wave, and the Evans-Rutinel Showdown
President Donald Trump’s approval rating is at record low, and there are close elections happening across the country this November – cou...
Is Colorado About to Hike Taxes on the Rich? Your Guide to 87, 136 and Prop. NN
Colorado’s midterm election ballots are packed with big decisions for voters, including two competing taxation measures. Dr. Paul Teske,...
How the Broncos Are Buying Up Land for a New Stadium
Ever since Mayor Mike Johnston was inaugurated in 2023, he’s made a priority of both keeping the Broncos in Denver, but also working with...