The Stephens Block’s transformation from vacant hotel to thriving restaurants

Have you checked out the old Stephens Hotel on the corner of Park and Montana?  Well, you may have and just not realized it.  The Stephens Block, on the southeast corner of the intersection was once part of a bustling Uptown urban environment with the mines in full operation, shops that rivaled those of New York or Chicago and 24/7 entertainment and nightlife just down Park Street.  Today?  Different, yet familiar.

When I was growing up, the Stephens Hotel was known as "Yer Father's Mustache", a barber shop where the talented Norm Bone kept me looking dapper for years.  (Well, he did what he could do with the raw materials, but I digress.)  But after the shop shut down, the historic building sat vacant for many years.

Today, the ground floor again could easily be confused for a restaurant space from New York or Chicago.  Taking up the corner of the building for the last several years has been Taco Del Sol which has been serving incredible tacos and burritos in a beautifully decorated dining area.

The eastern part of the building is now the new home of the Pita Pit.

In between the two restaurants is a beautiful modern-yet-retro dining area that is as delicious to the eyes as the pitas and burritos are to the taste buds.

Remodeling is also taking place upstairs where residential units will be available soon.

You've got to check out this incredible remodel.  And while you're there, try a Mission Burrito with shredded beef and mango sauce at TDS.  You'll thank me on both counts,