The Early Word on Boulder Newcomer The Beehive

After a nearly decade long hiatus, Janice Henning reopened The Beehive in Boulder two weeks ago. Initially noted for being hip, small and a bit overpriced by Denver Post critic Diane Gould in 1999, Henning has returned with careful edits to the original. The casual dining restaurant offers unpretentious, locally sourced American dishes like Tenderbelly Berkshire Pork Ragu and Grilled Salmon in a bright and rustic setting, open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. While most diners have warmly welcomed the restaurant’s resurrection, some reviewers say the new place is lackluster and doesn’t offer anything special. Check out what local social media is saying about the food, drinks, and décor. Here now, the early word on Beehive.

The Good News: Over on Facebook, a commenter says he had a great time: “I had drinks and dinner at the bar with friends last Tuesday, and everything was fantastic! Those of you who low [sic] me know that I am a tough critic, so there's that. One addition requested: cherrie [sic] behind the bar do [sic] I can get my favorite cocktail.” [Facebook]

The Bad News: One Yelper is unimpressed: “Slow service. Small Proportions. Crowded Space. Happy Hour only goes from 4pm to 5pm.” [Yelp]

The Lukewarm News: A Westword commenter says it needs to be more unique: “I actually went last night (opening night) and it reminded me of a blend of Oak/The Kitchen and the new Bramble & Hare. What we had (just apps) was really fresh and delicious, but it needs to stand out and be incredible to keep up with the packs. Why doesn't Boulder get some legit Korean BBQ or something different? :)” [Westword]

The Fabulous Decor News: Blog Junebug Life is Beauty-Full raves about the restaurant: “I just got back from freshening up the Beehive, our newest Boulder restaurant, with some mint on the table bud vases and scabiosa (pictured) and mint jars for the bar. What a fabulous new place to savor small plates and wine for happy hour (starts at 3pm) or a farm-fresh delicious dinner.” [Junebug Life is Beauty-Full]

The Hearty Food News: Thrillist writes: “Despite Beehive not being at all affiliated with the killa beez, there's enough hearty dishes to feed all of Wu-Tang (even Raekwon!), from a fried soft shell crab sammie on an Udi's bun, to meatier fare like a grilled quail "spatchcock" (the bird's sternum and backbone are removed so it can be grilled flat), and a crispy duck confit with cherries & pickled red onions.” [Thrillist]

The Not So Great News: Another Westword commenter thinks it’s more of the same: “Same-o same-o menu as everyone else on The Mall. I don't hit the similar places often due to them all being pretty much the same menu-wise. And not changing up their menus much. It's summer and hot out, at least tweak the menus a bit to not have heavy dishes that are better for fall/winter.” [Westword]

The More Good News: Another Yelp reviewer is quite pleased: “Since moving from NY to Boulder, this is the type of place I dreamed would open.” [Yelp]
— Ashley Mason
· Beehive Coverage [EDen]