Denver Biscuit Company: A Southern Comfort Food Haven in the Heart of Denver 2024

The Denver Biscuit Company (DBC) is a beloved institution that has redefined the way people experience Southern comfort food in the Rocky Mountains. Known for its oversized biscuits, indulgent breakfast sandwiches, and creative culinary takes, DBC has captured the hearts and appetites of locals and tourists alike. In this article, we’ll explore the rise of Denver Biscuit Company, its iconic dishes, its role in the Denver food scene, and why it has become a must-visit spot for food lovers across the country.
The Story Behind Denver Biscuit Company

Denver Biscuit Company was born out of an idea to bring authentic Southern comfort food to Denver, a city known more for its proximity to the mountains than for biscuits and gravy. The brainchild of co-founders Drew Shader and Ashleigh McElwain, DBC began as a humble food truck before expanding into multiple brick-and-mortar locations across the city.
The Early Days: From Food Truck to Franchise
The origins of Denver Biscuit Company trace back to 2009 when Drew Shader opened a food truck with a simple but bold concept: serve Southern-style biscuits in Denver. At the time, the food truck scene was booming, and Shader’s decision to focus on one signature item—biscuits—was both risky and genius. The demand for the food truck grew rapidly, and in 2010, Shader opened the first DBC location inside Atomic Cowboy, a pizza and beer joint in Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. The restaurant-within-a-restaurant model worked, and soon, word-of-mouth spread, bringing in food enthusiasts from all over the city.
Growing Pains and Big Dreams
As DBC’s popularity soared, Shader and McElwain knew they had something special. The challenge was expanding while maintaining the quality and consistency that made their biscuits so beloved. The next few years saw the opening of more locations around Denver, including spots in Berkeley, Stanley Marketplace, and Colfax, each offering the same menu but with unique neighborhood vibes.
Through careful planning, local sourcing, and a relentless commitment to quality, Denver Biscuit Company evolved into more than just a restaurant—it became a local institution. The biscuits themselves became famous, but it was the innovative dishes, friendly staff, and laid-back atmosphere that truly cemented DBC’s place in Denver’s culinary landscape.
The Biscuit: The Star of the Show
At the heart of Denver Biscuit Company’s success is the humble biscuit. But make no mistake, this is no ordinary biscuit. DBC’s biscuits are massive, fluffy, and perfectly baked. With a golden-brown exterior and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior, they are the perfect canvas for a variety of savory and sweet toppings.
Crafting the Perfect Biscuit
The secret to DBC’s biscuit recipe is a closely guarded one, but it’s clear that the attention to detail is what sets these biscuits apart. From the quality of the ingredients to the precise baking techniques, every step is carefully crafted to deliver a biscuit that can hold its own—whether it’s topped with sausage gravy, fried chicken, or just a smear of butter.
The biscuits are made fresh daily, ensuring that every order comes with a biscuit that’s just as good as the last. This level of consistency is part of what keeps people coming back again and again. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned regular, you can count on DBC’s biscuits to be top-notch every time.
Sweet and Savory Combinations
While the biscuits themselves are incredible, it’s the toppings and fillings that truly elevate them to legendary status. Denver Biscuit Company is known for offering a mix of both savory and sweet options, giving diners the ability to indulge in whatever they’re craving.
On the savory side, the “Franklin” is one of the most popular items on the menu. It features buttermilk fried chicken, bacon, cheddar cheese, and smothered in sausage gravy, all served on a towering biscuit. For those looking for something sweet, the “Strawberry Shortcake” is a game-changer. This dish takes a biscuit and tops it with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of sweet syrup—perfect for those who prefer dessert for breakfast.
The Menu: Southern Comfort with a Colorado Twist
While biscuits are the foundation of Denver Biscuit Company, the menu offers a wide range of dishes that are hearty, flavorful, and unapologetically indulgent. From breakfast sandwiches to biscuits and gravy, the menu combines Southern staples with a creative, Colorado twist.
Breakfast All Day
One of the reasons why DBC has become so popular is that breakfast is served all day. No matter what time of day you visit, you can count on getting a hearty breakfast meal that’s sure to satisfy. The menu includes a variety of options, ranging from classic Southern dishes to more adventurous offerings.
For example, the “Ellsworth” features buttermilk fried chicken, local honey, and whole grain mustard on a biscuit, blending sweet and savory flavors with a touch of heat. Then there’s the “Dahlia,” a lighter option that features a biscuit with tomato, cucumber, goat cheese, and fried egg.
The Famous Biscuit Sandwiches
While biscuits can be eaten on their own or with a side of gravy, Denver Biscuit Company is known for its over-the-top biscuit sandwiches. These sandwiches are not your typical breakfast fare—they’re enormous, often requiring a fork and knife to tackle.
One of the standout sandwiches is the “Franklin,” which we mentioned earlier, but there are many other fan favorites. The “Winona” features a biscuit piled high with sausage, an over-easy egg, and cheddar cheese, all topped with a drizzle of honey butter. The “Cordon Bleu” is another mouthwatering option, with fried chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, and honey butter all sandwiched between a buttery biscuit.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Though Denver Biscuit Company is known for its indulgent, meat-heavy dishes, it also caters to vegetarians and vegans. The “Veggie Franklin” swaps the fried chicken for crispy tofu, while maintaining the same delicious flavors. In addition, many menu items can be made vegan or vegetarian upon request, making DBC an inclusive destination for diners with dietary restrictions.
The Atmosphere: Laid-Back Southern Charm
The vibe at Denver Biscuit Company is just as inviting as the food. Each location has its own unique charm, but they all share a common theme: laid-back, comfortable, and full of Southern hospitality. Whether you’re sitting at the counter or in a booth, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.
A Family-Friendly Environment
DBC is a great place for families, with a kid-friendly menu and a relaxed environment that makes it easy to bring the little ones along. The staff is known for being friendly and attentive, and the casual atmosphere means you don’t have to worry about keeping things too formal.
On weekends, the restaurant is often packed with families enjoying a leisurely breakfast or brunch, and the large portion sizes mean there’s always enough to share. Plus, with locations spread throughout Denver, it’s easy to find one that’s convenient for your family’s next outing.
A Community Staple
One of the reasons Denver Biscuit Company has remained so popular is its connection to the local community. DBC partners with local farms and purveyors to source many of its ingredients, ensuring that everything on the menu is as fresh and local as possible. This commitment to local sourcing not only supports the community but also enhances the quality of the food.
In addition, DBC frequently participates in local events and fundraisers, further cementing its place as a beloved community staple. Whether it’s hosting a pop-up event or partnering with local organizations for charity, Denver Biscuit Company is always finding ways to give back to the city that helped make it a success.
Expanding the Denver Biscuit Empire
As Denver Biscuit Company’s popularity continues to grow, so does its presence in the Denver area. Over the past few years, DBC has expanded to multiple locations throughout the city, each with its own unique charm and character. Despite the expansion, the quality of the food and service remains consistent across all locations, making it clear that DBC is here to stay.
The Colfax Location: A Denver Institution
One of the most iconic DBC locations is on Colfax Avenue, Denver’s legendary street known for its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and shops. The Colfax location is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, thanks to its central location and lively atmosphere. The restaurant’s large, open dining area is perfect for groups, and the outdoor patio provides a great spot for enjoying a biscuit sandwich while taking in the sights and sounds of Colfax.
Stanley Marketplace: A Unique Dining Experience
Another notable DBC location is at Stanley Marketplace, a converted aviation factory turned bustling marketplace in Aurora. This location offers a unique dining experience, with plenty of communal seating and access to a variety of other vendors. It’s a great place to grab a biscuit sandwich before exploring the many shops and attractions that Stanley Marketplace has to offer.
The Future of Denver Biscuit Company
With multiple successful locations and a loyal following, the future looks bright for Denver Biscuit Company. There are even rumors of potential expansion beyond Denver, with Shader and McElwain considering opening locations in other cities across Colorado—and possibly beyond. Whatever the future holds, one thing is certain: DBC’s commitment to quality, creativity, and Southern hospitality will continue to win over biscuit lovers for years to come.
The Denver Biscuit Company Experience: Why It’s a Must-Visit
For anyone visiting Denver, a trip to Denver Biscuit Company is a must. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience that combines Southern comfort food with Colorado flair, all in a laid-back, welcoming environment. Whether you’re a fan of breakfast, biscuits, or just great food in general, DBC is sure to leave you satisfied.
Iconic Dishes That Keep You Coming Back
What makes Denver Biscuit Company truly special is its ability to create dishes that are not only delicious but also memorable. The menu is filled with items that are both creative and comforting, with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and indulgent flavors. Whether you’re trying the Franklin for the first time or indulging in a biscuit topped with strawberries and whipped cream, you’ll find yourself craving a return visit before you even leave.
A Staple in Denver’s Food Scene
Denver has become a food lover’s paradise in recent years, and Denver Biscuit Company is a key player in that transformation. The restaurant has helped to put the city on the map as a destination for great food, and it continues to set the standard for casual dining in Denver. With its focus on high-quality ingredients, creative menu offerings, and Southern hospitality, DBC is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience.
Why Locals and Tourists Alike Love DBC
One of the things that makes Denver Biscuit Company so special is its universal appeal. Locals love it for its consistency, friendly service, and commitment to the community. Tourists flock to it for the chance to experience something uniquely Denver, while still enjoying the flavors of the South. Whether you’re grabbing a quick breakfast on the go or sitting down for a leisurely brunch, DBC has something for everyone.
Conclusion: More Than Just Biscuits
At its core, Denver Biscuit Company is about more than just biscuits—it’s about bringing people together over great food, creating memorable experiences, and celebrating Southern comfort in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime fan, there’s no denying the magic of a meal at DBC. So the next time you find yourself in Denver, make sure to stop by and experience the biscuits that have taken the city by storm.
Denver Biscuit Company’s combination of quality, creativity, and community spirit ensures that it will remain a beloved part of Denver’s food scene for years to come. Whether you’re indulging in a savory sandwich or enjoying a sweet treat, one thing is for sure: you won’t leave DBC hungry.