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A familiar face takes over South Fulton public safety as investigation continues into chief
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Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, August 13th 2025 at 19:57 GMT by WSB Cox articles🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Current Police Chief Keith Meadows is on paid administrative leave amid ongoing investigations.
Familiar Face Takes Over Iconic South Park Landmark
In a move that's equal parts nostalgia and entrepreneurial ambition, a well-known figure from the world of entertainment has stepped in to revive a beloved Colorado institution. Trey Parker, one half of the creative duo behind the long-running animated series *South Park*, has taken the reins at Casa Bonita, the legendary Mexican restaurant and entertainment venue in Lakewood, Colorado. This development marks a fascinating intersection of pop culture, local history, and business revival, as Parker aims to breathe new life into a place that's not just a dining spot but a cultural touchstone for many.
Casa Bonita first opened its doors in 1974, quickly becoming famous for its over-the-top theming and immersive experiences. Modeled after a Mexican village, the sprawling 52,000-square-foot venue features cliff divers plunging into an indoor pool, mariachi bands, puppet shows, arcade games, and even a haunted cave. It's a place where families have created generations of memories, blending kitschy fun with affordable Mexican cuisine. However, the restaurant's fortunes waned in recent years, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced its closure in 2020. The parent company, Summit Family Restaurants, filed for bankruptcy, leaving the future of this quirky landmark uncertain.
Enter Trey Parker and his collaborator Matt Stone, the masterminds behind *South Park*. Fans of the show will immediately recognize Casa Bonita from a memorable 2003 episode titled "Casa Bonita," where the character Eric Cartman goes to extreme lengths—including faking a terminal illness—to visit the restaurant for Kyle's birthday. The episode hilariously captured the venue's absurd charm, from the sopapillas to the Black Bart's Cave attraction, cementing its place in pop culture lore. Parker and Stone, both Colorado natives, have long professed their love for the spot. In interviews, they've shared stories of childhood visits and how it inspired their comedic sensibilities.
The takeover began to take shape in 2021 when Parker and Stone announced their intention to purchase and restore Casa Bonita. They reportedly invested around $40 million into the project, partnering with local investors and experts to overhaul the aging facility. The goal wasn't just to reopen but to enhance the experience while preserving its eccentric soul. After months of renovations, which included updating the kitchen, improving safety features, and modernizing the entertainment elements, Casa Bonita welcomed back guests in a limited capacity starting in 2023. Parker has been hands-on, often spotted at the venue overseeing operations and even participating in events.
What makes this revival particularly intriguing is Parker's vision for the future. He's emphasized maintaining the restaurant's family-friendly vibe while introducing subtle nods to *South Park* fans. For instance, there are Easter eggs scattered throughout—like references to the show's characters or episodes—without turning it into a full-blown theme park. The menu has been revamped with higher-quality ingredients, moving away from the mass-produced fare of the past to more authentic Mexican dishes prepared by a team of skilled chefs. Signature items like the all-you-can-eat sopapillas remain, but now they're paired with options like handmade tamales and fresh guacamole.
Beyond the food and fun, this project represents a broader effort in cultural preservation. Casa Bonita isn't just a restaurant; it's a piece of Americana, a relic of the 1970s era of themed dining experiences that once dotted the U.S. landscape, from Polynesian tiki bars to medieval knight-themed eateries. Many such venues have shuttered due to changing tastes and economic pressures, but Parker sees value in saving this one. "It's about keeping the magic alive for the next generation," Parker has said in public statements, highlighting how the restaurant evokes a sense of wonder that's increasingly rare in a digital age dominated by screens.
The reopening hasn't been without challenges. Initial demand was overwhelming, with a lottery system implemented for reservations due to limited seating during the soft launch phase. Some longtime fans expressed concerns about rising prices—dinner now costs around $30-$40 per person, a jump from the pre-closure days—but Parker defends it as necessary to sustain quality and pay staff fairly. The venue employs hundreds of locals, including performers like the cliff divers, who undergo rigorous training to execute their daring jumps safely.
Community response has been largely positive. Lakewood residents and *South Park* enthusiasts alike have flocked to the reopened spot, sharing stories on social media of reliving childhood memories or discovering it for the first time. The revival has also boosted local tourism, drawing visitors from across the country eager to experience the real-life inspiration behind the cartoon episode. Economically, it's a win for the area, injecting vitality into a suburb that benefits from the influx of patrons.
Looking ahead, Parker envisions expanding Casa Bonita's reach. There are talks of merchandise lines, special events, and perhaps even collaborations with other Colorado brands. Yet, he remains committed to authenticity, ensuring that the heart of what made Casa Bonita special—its unpretentious joy and communal spirit—remains intact. This isn't just a business venture; it's a passion project for Parker, who grew up in nearby Conifer and attended the University of Colorado Boulder. His involvement underscores a trend of celebrities investing in nostalgic properties, from Ryan Reynolds' ownership of a Welsh soccer team to other stars reviving classic brands.
In many ways, Parker's takeover of Casa Bonita symbolizes a bridge between fiction and reality. What started as a satirical nod in an animated show has evolved into a tangible effort to preserve a slice of whimsy in an often cynical world. As the restaurant continues to ramp up operations, with plans for full public access in the coming months, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of nostalgia and the impact of creative minds giving back to their roots. For fans of *South Park* or anyone seeking a dose of eccentric entertainment, Casa Bonita under Parker's stewardship promises to be a destination worth the visit, sopapillas and all.
This revival story also highlights broader themes in the entertainment industry. Creators like Parker and Stone, who have amassed fortunes from their hit show (now in its 26th season on Comedy Central), are increasingly channeling their success into real-world projects. Their production company, Important Studios, has backed various ventures, but Casa Bonita feels uniquely personal. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most fulfilling endeavors come from revisiting the places that shaped us.
As word spreads, expect more buzz around this iconic spot. Whether you're a die-hard *South Park* aficionado or simply someone who appreciates a good cliff-diving show with your enchiladas, Casa Bonita's new chapter under a familiar face is poised to create even more unforgettable memories for years to come.
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