Denver restaurateur Sean Huggard, the force behind Blue Island Oyster Bar and Oliver’s Italian, has locked in the former California Pizza Kitchen space at Cherry Creek Shopping Center for his newest concept Ash & Agave.

Opening early 2026, the 4,800 square foot restaurant will bring the flavors and fire of the Mexican Riviera to one of Denver’s most prestigious dining districts.

Expect charcoal and wood fired cooking, a raw bar with ocean fresh seafood, housemade tortillas, and a mezcal program built for late nights and long conversations

The design will lean tropical and coastal with lush greenery, bold details, and plenty of room to spread out. With seating for about 250 inside and out along with valet just steps away, this is built for both Cherry Creek locals and the citywide crowd who already make Huggard’s other spots a go to.

The move also signals a fresh wave of energy in Cherry Creek where restaurant turnover has been fierce. California Pizza Kitchen closed in summer 2025 and Ash & Agave has already signed a ten year lease to make the address their own.

Huggard calls the new spot Mexican inspired, bold, and laid back, but the plan is bigger than just food. It is about building another hospitality anchor alongside his other Denver staples.