Coming soon to downtown Phoenix, Golden Oak will be helmed by (from left) Chris Figueroa and Dave Valencia, and joined by operations manager TJ Osborne and executive chef Grant McLennon (submitted photo).Coming soon to downtown Phoenix, Golden Oak will be helmed by (from left) Chris Figueroa and Dave Valencia, and joined by operations manager TJ Osborne and executive chef Grant McLennon (submitted photo).
A new culinary collaboration is hoping to ignite the downtown Phoenix food scene this fall with the opening of Golden Oak Barbecue & Taproom, a full-service barbecue and craft beer taproom concept from two East Valley culinary destinations.
Golden Oak Barbecue & Taproom is a collaboration between Chris Figueroa, owner of Nicky’s Barbecue pop-up, and Dave Valencia, founder of Oro Brewing Company. Valencia opened Oro Brewing in 2016 in Downtown Mesa and built a steady following and a collection of gold medals at the Arizona Craft Beer Awards. Figueroa brings nearly a decade of experience in barbecue, having honed his craft in St. Louis before launching Nicky’s Barbecue.
Together, they will transform the former Throne Brewing space into what they describe as a “vibrant, community-driven concept that blends globally influenced barbecue, award-winning beer and intentional hospitality.”
Figueroa and Valencia say they are committed to creating a welcoming, hands-on dining experience where hospitality feels genuine. A departure from the counter-style model many neighborhood barbecue joints are known for, Golden Oak will offer full table service in a space designed to evolve throughout the day. The interior draws inspiration from rustic textures, natural materials and layered lighting to create an environment for any occasion, including business lunches, date nights, celebratory dinners and post-work beers.
Inspired by barbecue regions all across the globe and layered with Figueroa’s Peruvian heritage, guests can expect traditional barbecue plates such as Texas brisket and St. Louis cut ribs, and dishes with Hispanic and South American influences such as Papa a la Huancaina from Peru. Sides include a rotating mix of comfort classics with a creative flair, including mac and cheese and coleslaw. Products that are not made in-house will be sourced from local vendors, including Gold Canyon Meat Co. and Venezia Bakery.
The spot will feature a curated tap list of Oro’s most popular brews, including Trigo Suave and Hopiphany. A variety of lagers, sours, seasonal releases, wine and craft cocktails will also be available.
Golden Oak Barbecue & Taproom will be located at 1326 N. Central Ave. To learn more and stay up to date with the latest happenings, visit www.goldenoakbbqtap.com.
