This week in Denver restaurant news, a storm brings three-feet of water into a bar’s basement, temporarily closing it. We’re also hearing about new hours, hospitality programs, and a Mexican-barbecue sandwich we can’t stop thinking about. Have a tip? Send us a note via Instagram or by emailing info@diningout.com.
The 411
Chocolate Sculpture
At its factory inside Edgewater Public Market, Bibamba Artisan Chocolate unveiled a fantastic chocolate model of Denver Union Station. The 3D work of art was handcrafted using about 70 pounds of chocolate, and measures 49-inches long and 20-inches tall.
“Creating a model of Denver Union Station completely out of chocolate was definitely a unique challenge,” said Avery Lankford, confectioner at Bibamba Artisan Chocolate, in a press statement. “I worked from many different photographs and used both math and creativity to construct this piece, from the general structure to the intricate details, with the same care and effort that we bring to every sweet treat we make.”
The sculpture debuted right before Colorado Day (August 1), which marks Colorado’s 150th anniversary of statehood and Bibamba’s sixth anniversary in business.
Flood Closes Beloved Dive Bar
On Friday, July 31, the basement of The Squire Lounge on East Colfax Avenue got soaked after a heavy rain. But it wasn’t just damp, the bar posted on social media that the water topped three feet, causing thousands of dollars in damage. This comes as that stretch of Colfax has already faced issues due to the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project along the avenue.
Chicken Every Day
No longer will Chicken Riot, the fast-casual chicken joint brought to us by the Riot BBQ team, be closed on Monday and Tuesday. Now the Cherry Creek shop has updated its hours to seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
I Scream Because of Melted Desserts
Hip Hop Ice Cream Shop at 4430 W. 29th Ave. in Highland lost power last week, which destroyed all the product. We’re talking 180 gallons of ice cream from parlors across the front range. The small store sells Colorado’s best ice creams and scoops it up along with its own homemade toppings. We haven’t heard of any fundraisers, but you can support the independent shop by going out for some tasty treats.
Happy 25th to Postino
The longtime Valley wine bar known for its bruschetta boards and beverage list, celebrates a quarter-century with the launch of its new “Postino Pass,” a complimentary membership program offering personalized perks and a welcome gift. Look for the deal across all Postino locations.
Southern Smoke Foundation Comes to Colorado
Hot off of receiving its 2026 James Beard Foundation Impact Award, Houston-based Southern Smoke Foundation, is expanding its Behind You mental health program to Colorado through a new partnership with the University of Denver’s Graduate School of Professional Psychology. Beginning Monday, August 17, eligible food and beverage workers across the state will have access to up to 20 free counseling sessions, available both in person and via telehealth, with no cost to employees or employers.
The expansion addresses a growing need for accessible mental health care in the hospitality industry, where long hours, high stress and financial barriers often prevent workers from seeking treatment. Founded by Houston chef Chris Shepherd, the nonprofit has awarded more than $16.5 million in emergency relief and provided access to more than 12,000 counseling sessions for food and beverage workers nationwide. Colorado hospitality workers can learn more and apply at southernsmoke.org.
What Counter Service?
After years boasting a hybrid service model, MAKfam decided to launch full service. At least for most of the restaurant shift. Diners sitting at the window table will still need to order at the counter during dinner service, but the rest can rest, and wait for someone to come to you.
New Owners, All the Love
The Wooden Spoon in Denver has quietly served Highland residents for over a decade, but it wasn’t always easy. After many ups and downs, the owners decided they would have to close the bakery for good. But, thanks to the people behind Edible Beats (Root Down, Vital Root, Linger, and El Five), the cafe isn’t going anywhere. Now Edible Beats owns and operates Wooden Spoon, and promises to keep the recipes, spirit, and team the same.
On the Menu
East Meets West For Brunch
Bao Tennyson just launched a new weekend brunch, complete with bottomless mimosas. The morning menu brings Asian flavors and ingredients to classic American brunch fare. For example, the Bao Breakfast Bowl with fried rice, pork belly, jalapeños, sweet peppers, sweet-and-spicy candied bacon, eggs any style, Treasure aioli, and sambal sauce. Also try the Bacon & Egg Bao Buns and the Chicken & Waffles Roujiamo, which showcases fried chicken tossed in maple-miso sauce with scrambled eggs and candied bacon.
This is the first time the restaurant group, which also runs Bao Brewhouse and Ukiyo in Larimer Square, has introduced breakfast. In true brunch fashion, the menu also includes Espresso Martinis, Togarashi Bloody Marys, and a Matcha Colada. Join the feast every Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 3 p.m.
New Sandwich to Crave
Heat to Riot BBQ for the latest menu item: Chopped Brisket Torta. The bread comes from neighboring restaurant Xiquita, and it’s topped with costra de queso, smoked tallow-cilantro chimichurri, Alabama white sauce, and avocado crema.
Colorado Produce Shines
The new summer menu at Apple Blossom features all things Colorado. We’re talking Corn Pappardelle in a fresh basil and local corn mascarpone sauce, and Palisade Peach Pie Oatmeal topped with shortbread cookie crumble. To drink, try the Tomato Martini, made with coconut-infused gin, caramelized onion umami vermouth, ginger falernum, and tomato ponzu.
Don’t Miss This Week
Need some dining out recommendations? Try these three hot spots, and make sure to check out the week’s events.
Wednesday: Spanky’s Roadhouse took home the top Judges’ Choice prize at SURF Seafood Competition last week, and second place for Peoples’ Choice. While the winning bite isn’t on the menu, there is a whole list of comforting American fare to fill up on. Fun fact, I grew up right around the corner from Spanky’s, so it’s nostalgic as well as delicious.
Thursday: It’s been a long time since I’ve had the pleasure of dining at Major Tom. So, today is the day and I’m so excited. Do you have a favorite order?
Friday: Writer Abigail Bliss just compiled a sushi list and it’s got me hungry. On Fridays only, Temaki Den serves lunch, and the deals are just as good as the happy hour specials. You can bet I’ll be at the sushi counter with a set of hand rolls and a big appetite (and possibly a glass of sake to top it all off).
