“We have a passion for promoting, preserving, and serving some of the most authentic, heritage foods from the many different cultures that make up the fabric of our community. At Comal, the vast majority of our entrepreneurs are the first generation in this country. Many use authentic ingredients and cooking processes that date back for generations. We’re fighting to preserve these traditions.”

Middle Eastern sampler showcasing six appetizers cooked by Syrian participants; street tacos served on handmade masa tortillas freshly grilled on the Comal; estofado (traditional pork stew).

Comal provides immigrants and refugees a pathway to prosperity via a culinary education, and a steady paycheck to boot. Each class of ambitious home cooks, who hail from some of the poorest neighborhoods in Denver, learns how to turn a passion for food into a career in the restaurant industry; skills training covers everything from English language training to bookkeeping to local sourcing (and tending its own garden). Its community aspirations don’t take focus from the food, though: Comal is home to some of the best Mexican, Middle Eastern, and Ethiopian bites in the city, served fast-casual-style during lunch, and in a fine dining environment once a month.

“This lunch spot in the RiNo neighborhood offers some of the best Mexican, Syrian, and Ethiopian food and drink in the city. And the whole operation acts as a business incubator for women from underserved Denver neighborhoods.”

Eater Denver