clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

What's Good, What's Great at Chop Shop Casual Neighborhood Eatery

Having opened this summer to a warm, neighborhood welcome and loads of publicity, former Zengo Chef Clint Wangsnes' new fast-casual eatery brings global inspiration, chef-driven approachability and value-inspired food. Here is the good news and bad news on Chop Shop.

If you buy something from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy.

The Hot and New News: Zagat featured the casual urban eatery on its list of 20 new restaurants and bars to try in the Denver area, highlighting the food's global reach and gourmet style. [Zagat]

The Famous, Family-Driven Chef News: Chef Clint Wangsnes bid farewell to Zengo after eight years in favor of opening his own place. This decision was spurred not only by professional development but also by the birth of Wangsnes' daughter and his personal approach to his future. The idea of a family-friendly, fast-casual eatery is what ultimately drove Wangsnes' creation to become what it is today. [Cafe Society]

The Impressive Beverage Program News: Eater Denver reported in July that thealcoholic accessories at Chop Shop are far better than what one might expect given the fast-casual environment. Wine, beer and cocktails are all available on tap, including a citrus-infused Moscow Mule and plans for a margarita. [Eater Denver]

The Technologically Advanced News: Not only does this place have an app, it has a fully functioning app that saves future payment information and offers a $2 discount for first-time users to incentivize its seamless use. Downloadable for iPhone here or for Android here. [Facebook]

The National Cheeseburger Day News: Denver's Fox 31 News showcased the chef's talents for National Cheeseburger Day, divulging to eager crowds his recipe for the ideal cheeseburger. [Fox 31 Denver]

The People Love Them On Yelp News: Yelpers have definitely picked up on Chop Shop is putting down: 60 total reviews endow the spot with a coveted 4.5-star rating. [Yelp]

The Bang for Your Buck News: Although the food is fresh and chef-driven, the price tag will leave your wallet smiling, too. USA Today placed Chop Shop on top of its 10 Best list in terms of value for Denver restaurants. [USA Today]

The Great Neighborhood Restaurant News: DiningOut Magazine certified Chop Shop as a "great neighborhood restaurant," noting its convenient location and comfortable environment. According to this source, the community which welcomed the eatery is family-centric and could turn to this location for its healthy, user-friendly meal needs. [DiningOut]

The Slow, So Good Protein News: Diners and writers alike have been raving about Chop Shop's 48-hour slow-cooked short ribs, peachwood-smoked pork and even crispy fried tofu. The restaurant undoubtedly fills a growing need: Wangsnes commented on his method of providing "seriously good protein and sides of a high-end steak house, but in a relaxed and price-appropriate manner." [Life on Capitol Hill]

Chop Shop opens at 11 a.m. and serves guests until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

· 15 Most Anticipated Fall Restaurant Openings [EDen]
· 5280 Magazine Picks Its 25 Best Restaurants [EDen]