06/21/2026
🌟 Sunday Business Spotlight: El Dorado Mexican Restaurant 🌟
This Father's Day, we're celebrating family businesses, family traditions, and the dads who make them possible by highlighting a Golden business built on family, perseverance, and a whole lot of hard work.
When Jose Duran opened El Dorado Mexican Restaurant in 2008, there were no guarantees. The early years brought challenges, but Jose's determination, work ethic, commitment to quality and perhaps most of all - beloved green chile recipe - helped build a loyal following passionate about the El Dorado experience.
Today, nearly two decades later, Jose is semi-retired and his sons, Eric and Sergio, lead the restaurant. In fact, El Dorado remains a true family business, with eight family members—including Jose’s teenaged grandchildren—working together to serve the Golden community.
"Our dad taught us that success comes from showing up every day, working hard, and never giving up," says Sergio. "He's spent more than 30 years in the restaurant business to take care of our family. We're proud to carry on what he started."
Known for its award-winning green chili, handcrafted margaritas, and recipes that have remained largely unchanged for nearly 18 years, El Dorado prides itself on consistency. More than 90 percent of the menu is made in-house, and generations of local families have made the restaurant a gathering place for celebrations, team dinners, and everyday meals.
The Duran family recently received recognition from the Golden Chamber of Commerce and every year provides generous support to local schools and Golden High School athletics.
Most of all, they're grateful. Grateful for a community that welcomed them when they arrived and has supported them ever since.
Cheers - of an El Dorado Top Shelf Margarita - to Jose and all the Golden dads this Father’s Day!
📍 El Dorado, 720 Arapahoe St in Golden
🌮 Father's Day Brunch: Dads receive a complimentary cupcake.
🕚 Open Tuesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. and Sunday, 11:00 a.m.– 8:00 p.m
