Story perspectives

Gaetano's: Denver's Historic Mob Hub Turned Dining Landmark

4/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Gaetano's, on Tejon Street in North Denver, has been a local landmark since 1947.
Gaetano's was founded by Clyde Smaldone and "Checkers" Smaldone.
It served as the Smaldone crime family's headquarters, where whiskey was bootlegged and Al Capone was hosted.
Owner Ron Robinson notes its criminal past and ghost legends, including a basement reputed to have housed punishments.
Today the restaurant blends mob lore with cuisine, attracting locals and tourists.

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Story summary

Gaetano's, on Tejon Street in North Denver, has been a local landmark since 1947.
Gaetano's was founded by Clyde Smaldone and "Checkers" Smaldone.
It served as the Smaldone crime family's headquarters, where whiskey was bootlegged and Al Capone was hosted.
Owner Ron Robinson notes its criminal past and ghost legends, including a basement reputed to have housed punishments.
Today the restaurant blends mob lore with cuisine, attracting locals and tourists.