The culinary duo of Justin Freeman and Danny Matthews has launched Monarch, a new wood-fired pizza concept within Denver's Urban Cowboy hotel. the restaurant aims to bring stability to a kitchen space that has seen multiple transitions in recent years.

The 700-degree oven that outlasted three previous concepts

The kitchen at 1665 N. Grant Street has a history of rapid culinary transitions. According to the report, the wood-fired, gas-assisted oven currently used by Monarch has hosted three distinct restaurant concepts in just three years . This turnover follows the tenures of previous establishments like Roberta's Pizza and Little Johnny B's.

Chef Justin Freeman, a 2010 graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, is now tasked with maintaining consistency in this high-pressure environment. Freeman admitted that despite his extensive training, he had never worked with a wood-fired oven before this project. He now manages the intense heat, which can reach up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit.

From $21 Margherita pizzas to Washington state clams

Monarch’s menu emphasizes high-quality ingredients to distinguish itself from previous tenants. The restaurant's top seller is the $21 Margherita pizza, which features a custom mozzarella recipe and crushed tomato sauce.

The culinary offerings extend beyond simple dough and cheese to include premium proteins and seasonal vegetables. As the source reports, Freeman utilizes several key components to build his menu:

  • Washington state clams and Colorado-raised beef
  • Mokum carrots and French radishes
  • The $16 Little Gem Salad with creamy pistachio dressing

    • A partnership built on 10 years of sobriety

    The foundation of Monarch is rooted in a personal connection between the two owners. Co-owner Danny Matthews, who works as a barber during the day, returned to the hospitality industry after being inspired by his cnoversations with Freeman.

    Matthews, who is currently 10 years sober, manages the front-of-house operations and even assists with desserts like French chocolate mousse. The partnership is described as being built on mutual respect and a shared passion for quality food, with Matthews' sobriety being a central part of his personal journey.

    Will Monarch break the cycle of Denver's rotating hotel kitchens?

    While the restaurant has launched with momentum, several questions remain regarding its long-term viability in the Urban Cowboy hotel.. The source does not clarify why the previous three concepts failed to find a permanent home in this specific kitchen space.

    It remains to be seen if the small kitchen space can support long-term growth or if the restaurant can maintain its current pace. Additionally, the report does not include comments from the hotel management regarding the frequent turnover of dining concepts at the 1665 N.. Grant Street location.