Did you know we are celebrating all things dogs in the news this week? That’s right, it’s the second annual Bark Week, so check out pup-friendly patios, chefs and their dogs, and more.
Also in Denver hospitality news, SHEEP gets an extension, there’s a great new happy hour, and a bear has brunch in Aspen. Have a tip? Send us a note via Instagram or by emailing info@diningout.com.
The 411
Adding to the Herd
When Id Est launched SHEEP as rooftop residency within Denver’s Clayton Hotel & Members Club, it wasn’t meant to last long. But lucky for us, chef Taylor Stark and Id Est founder Kelly Whitaker shared news that they have decided to extend the pop-up.
“With SHEEP, the goal is to explore what a different kind of growth can look like for Cherry Creek and Denver, one that more deeply integrates regional farmers and growers into larger hospitality settings,” said Whitaker in a statement. “It’s about building more circular and regenerative systems that support local agriculture, reduce waste, and create greater access to nutritious food. We don’t have all the answers, but SHEEP gives us an opportunity, alongside Clayton, to test what’s possible, learn from it and keep making things more impactful.”
Now SHEEP will run through December. Dinner reservations are available here, and the tasting menu starts at $125 per person. Bonus: Those interested in staying at Clayton Hotel & Members Club and dining at SHEEP can take advantage of a special package running until the end of 2026. More information here.
Blue Pan Pizza Saved From Fire
On Sunday, September 27, the Blue Pan Pizza locations in Highland had a small electrical fire in its kitchen. In a news post on Instagram, the restaurant stated, “The only reason this restaurant is still standing is because of the quick action taken by our team members who are on site. Without them, the damage would have been catastrophic.” The damage was minimal and after being closed all day Sunday, it reopened on Monday.
Plastic-Free Dining is Here
Recently The University of Colorado Boulder launched the tech-enabled USEFULL’s plastic-free and reusable takeout plan. It launched the program in the Alferd Packer Grill in the University Memorial Center and SEEC Café in the Sustainability, Energy and Environment Community building, making it the first campus in Colorado to integrate plastic-free dining. Sustainable Packaging News has more information here.
Brunch For a Bear
Aspen has been seeing a lot of bear activity lately, which locals and professionals blame on the drought and the effect it is having on berries and other natural bear foods. Last weekend, one of these animals made its way to the farmers’ market and helped itself to some fresh pastry and bread. Officials drove the bear off, after it had its breakfast.
Score a Rare Whiskey
Root Shoot Spirits’ 4-Year Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt named “Whisky of the Year” at the 2026 London Spirits Competition is once again available Nationwide online. It’s also releasing an extremely limited bottling of Root Shoot’s first 6-Year American Single Malt whiskey, its first-ever bourbon, and a limited Colorado Peach Brandy Cask Finished Whiskey made in collaboration with Peach Street Distillers.
On the Menu
The Stranahan’s Flight
Head to Harry’s in the Magnolia Hotel Denver and get to know Colorado’s first American single malt, crafted by Stranahan’s. The new flight features four one-ounce expressions including the original and the 10-Year Mountain Angel. The special is available daily for $30, or for $22 with any food purchase.
Pumpkin Season is Growing
Head to Apple Blossom for the new Pumpkin Spice Latte Panna Cotta. It’s made with housemade pumpkin spice syrup and fresh espresso from Huckleberry Roasters. Finally, it’s topped with salted-coffee caramel and chocolate-covered espresso beans.
News of Happy Hour Spritzes
Jovanina’s Broken Italian in LoDo now offers $10 classic spritzes during happy hour at the bar from 5 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. Happy hour is also all day on Wednesday and Thursday. Now, in addition to a selection of pasta, oysters, and wood-fired pizzas, you can also score an Aperol, Campari, Hugo, Limoncello, or Arancello spritz.
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: Did someone say all-day-happy-hour at Jovanina’s Broken Italian? Not only is it on our best Italian list, but spritzes are just $10. I’m so there.
Thursday: This week we celebrate all things dogs with our annual Bark Week. While I don’t have my own pup, I’m excited to hangout with my friend and her pooch at The Patio at Sloans Lake today.
Friday: Since I missed the media dinner showcasing chef Carrie Baird’s return to Bar Dough, I can’t wait to go check out what she’s doing. I have a feeling it’s amazing.
