Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Atomic Cowboy

At the Atomic Cowboy, we’re gearing up to celebrate 20 years this December! With such a significant milestone on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to share how we went from a concept to a cultural phenomenon. 

How it All Began

The Atomic Cowboy was founded by Drew Shader, a man who never planned to be a restaurateur. When a college football injury collided with a chance meeting on an airplane, his fate was sealed. He became the owner of a three-month-old “new dive bar” on Denver’s East Colfax Avenue (the longest, wickedest street in America).

What began as a small watering hole soon expanded into one of the area’s premier hotspots. With late-night pizza and southern-style morning biscuits, we offered something the Mile High City never knew it always wanted. 

Building Momentum

The unique setup of Atomic Cowboy proved attractive to everyone from early-morning go-getters to late-evening partiers to curious foodies. With a pizza window carved into Atomic Cowboy’s bar and the Biscuit Bus serving Denver locals like an appetite-sating superhero, we began to gain the city’s attention. Our appearances on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Grill Dads, and Food Paradise took that attention to national levels. 

Ultimately, we expanded from one location to nine (throughout Colorado and Kansas City).  

What’s In Store

Many guests who visit the Atomic Cowboy know exactly what’s in store: Fabulous eats in a fun and eclectic atmosphere. For those about to embark on their proverbial first rodeo, our restaurant offers relief for stubborn cravings and hunger pangs in the most delicious, inventive ways. 

In the morning, we feature decadent biscuit sandwiches, giant cinnamon rolls, buttermilk fried chicken dishes, and more through the Denver Biscuit Co. Come evening, we’ve got our eyes on the pie, offering 26-inch pizzas, award-winning burgers, garlic knots, wings, and more through Fat Sully’s Pizza. 

Whether you're starting your day or ending your night, we offer high-quality ingredients, craftsmanship, and unparalleled customer service that are known to turn visitors into regulars.

Please visit our website or follow us on social media for information on our anniversary events and promotions. 

Atomic Cowboy is a cultural mashup of ideas and experiences, food and drink, late night and early mornings, north and south. We offer in-restaurant dining and delivery. Contact us today to learn more about our menu, events, and accolades.