A lot of news has been going on in the Colorado restaurant scene. On the political side, a new house bill aims to help small, home-based food businesses. A local bourbon is now on the market that celebrates Colorado hockey. We are also seeing a shake up with one of the city’s largest restaurant groups. Make sure to check out this week’s restaurant recommendations at the end of the news items.
Read on for more top news stories and send us any tips via Instagram or by emailing info@diningout.com.
The 411
The Tamale Act
New on the political docket is House Bill 26-1033, nicknamed “The Tamale Act.” It’s an expansion on Colorado’s current Cottage Foods Act (CCFA), and if passed, will change the list of what homemade foods can legally be sold. Under the current CCFA it’s illegal to sell any homemade foods that have meat and/or need refrigeration.
If the bill passes it would open the doors to many small producers to sell more products as long as they complete a food safety course and follow the current handling guidelines. The bill also aims to remove the $10,000 cap on net revenues that a producer can earn under the CCFA.
Raising Funds for Girls
This month Olive & Finch celebrates International Women’s Month by raising funds for Girls, Inc. Guests have the option to add $1 to their tab in order to donate. Learn more at oliveandfinch.com.
Get Ready to Eat
Denver Restaurant Week kicks off March 6 and runs until March 15. Nearly 300 restaurants around the metro area signed up to participate, so there’s plenty of options. Make sure to check out the website for a complete list, organized by one of four price points, dietary needs, neighborhoods, and/or cuisine.
Chef Casting Call
Colorado’s Cooking Show Chef’n It put out a casting call for season two. Created by Tarah Runco, co-owner of Behind the Apron Media, the show debuted last year as a way to bring Colorado chefs into the home kitchen. The first season featured talent such as Cliff Blauvelt of Odie B’s, Kento Kamo of Tamaki Den, and four other chefs. Those interested can learn more and apply at ChefnIt.com or visit the casting page here.
New Chef Alert in the News
Jessica Biederman is now executive chef at Urban Farmer in Downtown Denver. Before heading the modern farm-to-table steakhouse, Biederman helped open Water Grill as executive chef.
News of Big Moves at CCG
After nearly three years in the making, Richard Flaherty has officially been named the Culinary Creative Group’s (CCG) new chief executive officer. Flaherty, formally the CEO of Punch Bowl Social, replaced CCG co-founder Juan Padró in the role. Padró still holds a major part in the company, serving as an equity holder and strategic advisor, and will be focusing on “investor relations, community engagement, and advancing the company’s social impact initiatives.”
Also, congrats to newly-appointed culinary director Blake Edmunds, who has served as executive chef and managing partner of CCG’s Señor Bear and Mister Oso. Lauren Barash has been named the CCG’s inaugural vice president of marketing.
Aged to Perfection
Non-profit CHOW (Culinary Hospitality Outreach Wellness) just launched a program designed to make donations go even further. Dubbed Aged to Perfection: Smart Giving for the Next Course, the new campaign offers approachable guidance on giving through IRAs, appreciated stock, and other non-cash options. Stay tuned to the organization’s social media to learn more.
Win Chicken Salad
Fast-casual eatery Chicken Salad Chick is opening its eighth restaurant in Colorado. The location will be at 5322 DTC Blvd. in Greenwood Village. The grand opening is on Wednesday, March 4, and the first 100 guests in line will win free chicken salad for a year.
On the Menu
Special Menu Perfect For Theater Goers
While chef Jennifer Jasinski’s Ultreia and Bistro Vendôme will join the Denver Restaurant Week line up, her first restaurant, Rioja, located in Larimer Square, has other plans. Dubbed First Turn, the $50-per-person meal can be reserved from 4 to 6 p.m. and features a four-course sharing menu showcasing some of Rioja’s most popular menu items. Think Artichoke Tortelloni, Thai Chili Pork, and the house salad with arugula, almonds, and dates. The special meal will only be available from March 6 to 15.
To Costa Rica With Love
Big news in the chef world, Byron Gomez is leaving BRUTØ and celebrating with a final menu. Running April 1 to June 30, the menu will showcase the chef’s love of his home country, Costa Rica. Reservations are open now on OpenTable, so don’t miss out.
Hockey Bourbon is Here
Woody Creek Distillers just released a Colorado Avalanche Bourbon, which comes in a collectable, officially-licensed bottle featuring the iconic snowcapped “A” logo. Find the bourbon exclusively in bars and in bottle shops in Colorado, and through Woody Creek’s direct-to-consumer channel at woodycreekdistillers.com. Bonus, the Olympics just featured eight Avs players, so there’s a bit of gold-medal energy to the product.
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.
Tuesday: It’s the last week to get a Japanese sando from the Sandoitchi pop-up at The Source. Don’t miss it, we are obsessed with the karaage corn and truffle chicken sando.
Thursday: Have you been to Dear Emilia yet? It’s stunning in every aspect. Favorite dishes include the lasagna and milk-braised pork entree, though everything we tried deserves a repeat visit.
Friday: We are craving one of the wacky-wonderful cocktails from Adventure Time. The current Neon City theme is still going strong. Make it a two-for and grab a bite to eat at MAKfam before or after, they’re located in the same building.
