Restaurant group solicits local feedback to increase neighborhood compatibility, popularity of restaurant
TAG Restaurant Group (TRG) reopened its FNG bistro concept in Denver. The Highlands neighborhood restaurant had closed temporarily due to labor shortages. The menu has received a refresh, providing locals and travelers familiar and comforting flavors, and is more chef-driven.
After closing, the restaurant group solicited local feedback to reimagine FNG. TRG refers to the reopened eatery as a “neighborhood spot with comfort food, cocktails, and a side of rock-n-roll.”
A new chef de cuisine is onboard: Charles Rivera unveils a Birria Grilled Cheese, made with bison brisket asadero, Oaxaca, jack cheese, pickled red onion, and spiced au jus; as well as the Barramundi, a pan-seared skin-on filet, with stone ground grits, and a cherry tomato reduction.
A handmade Papparedelle will also anchor the menu, prepared with sweet corn broth, wood-fired broccolini & caulilini, pistou, sambal, pine nuts, and grana Padano.
Starters include the housemade Foccaccia, baked in the wood-fired oven and smothered in cheese; a Bison Agnolotti, with ricotta, adobo butter, onions, and cilantro. Sandwiches include TRG founder Troy Guard’s famous Bologna Sliders, with mortadella di bologna, arugula, ruffles, and 1000 island dressing.
“We took the opportunity while FNG was closed to reevaluate the brand and talk to neighbors and community members about what they wanted in their spot,” says Guard. “I had been feeling for some time that the Highlands neighborhood needed something more food-forward, a bit elevated with a more upscale atmosphere.”
A cocktail menu, created by TRG Beverage Director Nikki Guard, brings back guest favorites, including the Almost Famous, with Stoli Crushed Ruby Red Vodka, coconut milk, ginger, lemon, and mint. In addition, new arrivals come to the bar: Enter the Dragon Fruit, prepared with Ford’s Gin, dragon fruit, lemon, egg white; and the Highlands Ranch Water, with Milagro Silver Tequila, fresh lime, sparkling water, and rhubarb bitters. The beverage team also plans to rotate in seasonal beverages.
FNG, 3940 West 32nd Avenue, Denver, CO 80212
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