Thunderbird Imperial Lounge Will Open on Saturday

Restaurateur Jesse Morreale has slowly dished out information about his newest project, the Thunderbird Lounge, but on Saturday at 8 p.m. all bets will be (almost) off. The new bar and restaurant occupies what had been Longo's Subway Tavern for decades, followed by a couple of short-lived burger bars at 3759 Lipan Street.

When it launches this weekend, it will bring most (but not all) of the restaurant’s planned offerings. "We’re going to continue with the development of the food and cocktail menus over time," Morreale, who once owned El Diablo and the Rock Bar said. "[W]e intend for it to be a collaborative effort with our neighbors and regulars. We’ll be talking with people about what other offerings they’d like to see on our menus, what hours they’d like to have available, etc; but right now it’s most important to put our staff to work before the holidays and get the restaurant open for the neighbors," he added.

What should guests expect? Mostly comfort food designed by chef Goose Sorensen of Solera, plus some fan favorites from other Morreale ventures.  There will be deviled eggs, mozzarella sticks with warm marinara, pork collar skewers, and nachos. Morreale and Sorensen will also offer patrons The Thunderburger – a build your own adventure served on a bun from Northwest Denver’s Hinman’s Bakery, four styles of wings, sloppy Joes, and more.

The goal of the new 3,000 square foot venture that can sit over 150 guests is to become a favorite hangout in the neighborhood where the vibe but also an affordable menu brings patrons back multiple times a week. To start out, hours of operations will be as follows: Weekdays from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., and weekends, 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. Food will be served until 11 p.m. every day.