Original tacos-and-tequila spot closing on Colfax; tavern-style pizza taking its place

When Kevin Morrison opened Tacos Tequila Whiskey in 2012, serving upscale street tacos in a hip environment, it was a revelation for many people in Denver. So much so that Morrison expanded the former food truck from its original spot at 1514 York St. to a larger location in Denver’s West Highland neighborhood and then out of state.

A dozen years later, and “taco spots are like coffee shops or breweries in this town. They’re everywhere,” he said. “I truly believe what our staff does at the back and front of the house is awesome. But I just have to look at it from the consumer, who’s thinking, ‘Why would I travel 10 minutes for a taco, when I can travel three?’ I get it.”

On Feb. 24, Morrison will close the original, or OG, Tacos Tequila Whiskey, and revamp the space into a new concept from his KTM Restaurant Group. The West Highland location, at 3300 W. 32nd Ave., will remain open — but with some menu updates, including salads and tortas.

“We’re not the new kid ...