Denver is buzzing with the news of a fresh and exciting addition to its vibrant culinary scene. Illegal Pete’s, the beloved fast-casual Mexican restaurant chain, is expanding its footprint with a brand-new location at 657 South Broadway. Mark your calendars for June 26, 2024, as this will be the official opening date for Illegal Pete’s South Broadway, promising to bring its signature California-style Mexican food to the South Broadway neighborhood.
The story of Illegal Pete’s began in the summer of 1995 in Boulder, Colorado. Pete Turner, alongside his father, embarked on a culinary adventure, opening the first Illegal Pete’s on University Hill. Inspired by the flavors of California and a desire to create a different kind of fast-casual dining experience, they quickly gained a loyal following. Pete Turner Sr., though facing health challenges, instilled a spirit of rebellious independence in his son, which became the very essence of the restaurant’s brand. The name “Illegal Pete’s” itself is a nod to this irreverent and anti-establishment attitude that Pete Turner wanted to infuse into his restaurant.
“It’s a tribute to the spirit that I wanted to reflect in the restaurant, which is irreverent, anti-authority, a little bit punk rock,” Turner explained, highlighting the ethos that sets Illegal Pete’s apart from typical chains.
Over nearly three decades, Illegal Pete’s has grown from its humble beginnings to a successful chain with a strong presence in Colorado and Arizona. Before the exciting arrival of Illegal Pete’s South Broadway, the chain already boasted 12 locations. And the expansion doesn’t stop there. In addition to the South Broadway spot, Illegal Pete’s has ambitious plans to open two more restaurants in the coming months. Boulder residents can look forward to a new location in the Table Mesa Shopping Center, set to open in early December, taking over the space previously occupied by Murphy’s South. Another location is slated to launch in January at the Gold’s Marketplace shopping center in Wheat Ridge, and February will see the grand opening of their first-ever restaurant in downtown Colorado Springs. Looking further ahead, a 16th location, and Denver’s seventh, is planned for West Colfax late next year.
The South Broadway location is particularly meaningful for Turner, representing a long-held desire to establish a stronger presence in South Boulder. The opportunity arose unexpectedly when the owners of Murphy’s South, a New American restaurant that had been operating since 2009, reached out to Illegal Pete’s. Adam Perkins, owner and general manager of Murphy’s Tap House in Louisville, explained that Murphy’s South had been struggling with declining sales, a trend exacerbated by the pandemic and rising business costs. “The pandemic was also unkind to that location and things weren’t improving post-pandemic either,” Perkins stated. “With the inflation situation and the cost of doing business, we ultimately determined that it was time to pass the torch to our friends at Illegal Pete’s.” This transition paved the way for Illegal Pete’s South Broadway to become a reality.
Before welcoming customers to Illegal Pete’s South Broadway, the former Murphy’s South space will undergo renovations to align with the Illegal Pete’s brand and operational needs. Turner mentioned plans for new equipment, updated seating arrangements, and a refreshed exterior facade. The renovations are currently pending a demolition permit, after which minor construction will commence to transform the space into the newest Illegal Pete’s hotspot.
Pete Turner, founder of Illegal Pete's, standing in his restaurant
Illegal Pete’s menu is deeply rooted in Pete Turner’s personal culinary experiences. Growing up with a mother from San Diego and spending summers there, he developed a love for Southern California Mexican food staples like taquitos, fish tacos, and quesadillas. His college years in Boulder and frequent trips to Northern California further shaped his palate, introducing him to the Mission-style burrito, a San Francisco creation known for its generous size and flavor. Illegal Pete’s menu is a delicious fusion of these influences, offering a unique take on Mexican cuisine that resonates with a broad audience.
The first Illegal Pete’s on The Hill was a small operation with just eight seats. In 1998, Turner expanded to the Pearl Street Mall, solidifying Illegal Pete’s place in Boulder’s dining scene. While he had always envisioned a location in South Boulder, the right opportunity hadn’t presented itself until now. The closure of Murphy’s South created the perfect opening for Illegal Pete’s South Broadway.
“I love the university, and I love the town. It’s special for me,” Turner shared, expressing his enthusiasm for the new Illegal Pete’s South Broadway location. “We’re excited to have the opportunity to do another business there.” Denver residents, and especially those in the South Broadway area, can eagerly anticipate the arrival of Illegal Pete’s South Broadway, a restaurant that promises great food, a unique atmosphere, and a touch of rebellious spirit. Get ready to experience the Illegal Pete’s difference when they open their doors on June 26, 2024!
