Hearth & Dram Joins the LoDo Dining Scene

Last week, some 5,000 brass coins were dropped all around Denver in a sweet stint meant to tease diners about a mysterious coming attraction referred to as H&D. The enigma is solved: Hearth & Dram will open its doors in space set at 1801 Wewatta Street, behind Union Station. The restaurant and bar, which will launch in mid-January, is focused on rustic American fare, paired with the largest whiskey selection in Downtown Denver.

Chris Straka is the manager of the new independently-owned concept that will seat some 118 guests. "The 'hearth' in ‘Hearth & Dram' refers to a brick- or stone-lined fireplace - the heart of the home. The ‘dram' is an old world measurement for whiskey that is still used today," he shared. The chef at the upcoming eatery is Jeffrey Wall, most recently of Atlanta's young but acclaimed Kimball House. Wall will reign an open kitchen anchored by a seven foot-wood-fired hearth, as well as a custom rotisserie. The chef is dedicated to thoughtful sourcing, incorporating local ingredients whenever possible, and utilizing a various cooking techniques to offer well-prepared, protein-forward dishes.

Dark, modern, but cozy, Hearth & Dram will offer more than 350 whiskey varieties, as well as whiskeys on tap, and a unique and extensive cocktail selection. Small production and local beers will also be found alongside an eclectic wine list. For those looking to explore finer whiskeys, a tableside cart will feature reserve whiskey cocktails.

The menu will include dishes like bison tartare with toast, preserved egg yolk and sunflower oil; farro spaghetti with prawns, guanciale, grilled leek and fennel; and medium-rare beef short rib with salsify, cracked wheat and fried garlic, and tamari. In addition to the standard a la carte menu, Hearth & Dram will offer specialty items such as an aged porterhouse steak for two with Pappy Van Winkle steak sauce, and five-day, advanced reservation-only "Whole Beast Feasts," for groups of six to ten people.

When it opens, Hearth & Dram will serve dinner daily. Lunch will be added shortly after opening.