Oskar Blues Fooderies in Longmont celebrated its 28th anniversary last month with 700 people in attendance, live music performances from three bands, and $2.80 drink specials. The event was an opportunity to roll out a new food menu and they also managed to raise $500 for a local nonprofit called Can’d Aid that provides musical instruments, skateboards, and bicycles to children in underserved communities.
“Oskar Blues is more than a restaurant group,” said Diana Ralston, executive director of Can’d Aid. “They’re part of the cultural fabric of Longmont and beyond. We’re proud to partner with people who believe in doing good while doing what they love.”
In addition to the Longmont location, Oskar Blues has restaurants in Lyons, Colorado Springs, and Denver. The new menu includes a mix of classic items and new options — polenta fries, shrimp, grits, and fried pickles. The menu will be rolled out to the other locations later this year after the Longmont restaurant collects feedback from customers on the new offerings.
“We didn’t want to overdo it. The food’s straightforward, intentional, and it’s what we do well,” said Head Chef Ryan Sheridan. “We brought some favorites back and introduced new ones that fit. The menu feels honest. We’re not chasing trends here. We’re focused on food that hits home.”
Every table now receives free hushpuppies for dining in.
“You stay open this long by showing up and listening,” Katechis said. “We’ve always believed in fresh food, cold beer, and taking care of people. That’s still what it’s about. We’re not trying to be something we’re not. We’re just dialing back into what’s always made this place work.”
Dale’s Pale Ale, named after Oskar Blues founder Dale Katechis, was one of the first known canned craft beers available for purchase in the United States when it was released in 2002. It was the highest selling canned craft beer 6-pack in the U.S. in 2016 and is available in all 50 states. In 2022, the Oskar Blues Brewery was sold to Monster Beverage Corporation. All of the “fooderies” are still owned by the same local team of founders from 1997.
Oskar Blues also hosts regular live music from local bands every weekend as the restaurant continues to be a staple in the Longmont community.
“This launch wasn’t just about the food. It was about giving the team something real to rally behind,” said Operations Manager Luke Snyder. “You could feel the momentum shift. The kitchen stepped up, the floor was locked in, and it felt like everyone owned their role. We’re building a place where people want to work and stick around. That’s how you build something strong.”
