The Nickel Taps Former A16 Chef Chris Thompson

It was a big change when Restaurant Kevin Taylor shuttered in the Hotel Teatro in March, but come July, a modern new restaurant will emerge in that space. After a serious renovation, the Nickel will open its doors with the hotel as operator and chef Jake Linzinmeir overseeing all of the executive and creative decisions made in the development of the restaurant.

Today, chef Linzinmeir announced that he selected Chris Thompson as executive chef of the new downtown eatery. Thompson comes from San Francisco's award-winning A16 restaurant in San Francisco, where he served as executive chef and salumaio. Prior to A16, he spent three years at the Michelin starred restaurant, Spruce, focusing on locally farmed ingredients. His career includes stints in Telluride at several of Colorado's Alchemy Concept restaurants.

"We're excited to have Chris lead the team at The Nickel," explained Jake Linzinmeir, senior vice president of restaurant development company Blau + Associates. "His work at A16 has been inspiring and his many talents will be a great addition to Denver's growing and diverse culinary scene," he continued.

The menu at the Nickel will be centered around cuisine that showcases locally-sourced ingredients from the surrounding region's farms, markets and ranches. Signature dishes will include bone marrow brulee with spring ramp jam; wood-roasted lamb rack with lavender honey, and grilled trout with pistachio gremolata. A curated barrel-aged spirits program featuring signature cocktails will complement the food. A local craft beer lineup and an extensive wine list will complete the offerings.

· 15 Most Anticipated Spring and Summer Openings [EDen]
· Denver's 38 Essential Restaurants [EDen]