Though pickleball been around since 1965, recently the tennis-meets-ping-pong-ball sport has became a hip activity across the country. Chicken N Pickle is one of the venues that have embraced the culture, launching in Missouri in 2016. But instead of just games, there’s also great food and drink to enhance the experience.
Now with 13 locations across Arizona, Texas, Nevada, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Kansas, Chicken N Pickle has landed in Colorado. On Tuesday, June 24, it officially opens to the public. Find the giant venue located in the Grove Shopping Center in Thornton, just 10 miles north of Denver. Not only is this the first iteration of the company in the state, but the suburb’s first pickleball-focused place as well.
Once there, reserve a court and paddles (or bring your own) and enjoy a sampling of snacks such as fried pickles ($10.49), red pepper hummus ($10.99), wings ($13.99), deviled eggs ($7.99), and more. On the hearty side of the menu, order a rotisserie half-chicken ($15.99), half-rack of ribs ($18.99), and plenty of chicken sandwiches. The restaurant also serves wraps, salads, sweet potato fries, and more.
On the drinks side the frozen Espresso Martini is a must. It’s cold, boozy, and not too sweet. There’s also a frozen Prosecco-based Pina Colada, and plenty of other cocktails, wine, beer, and zero-proof beverages too.
The two-level space looks massive from the outside, and includes a couple outdoor courts, cornhole, patio seating, and areas where dogs are welcome. There’s also shuffle board and ping pong available, not to mention themed nights and bingo.
Every Monday you can get a $6.99 quarter-pound burger, with Stevie’s Sweet Heat BBQ sauce, aged cheddar, lettuce, grilled onions, and tomato. Also stop by for a quick lunch and a game. The Speedy 7 deal runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., dine-in only, and includes a select item from the sandwich, salad, or wrap menu and drink for $12.99.
For the grand opening, head to Chicken N Pickle on Tuesday for free open play all day. The restaurant will also be dishing out a free handheld and side starting at 5:30 p.m. (line opens at 5 p.m.), for the first 100 guests. Expect more fun with raffles, games, and prizes.
Visit Chicken N Pickle Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to midnight; and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. 14225 Lincoln St., Thornton, chickennpickle.com
