In an industry often riddled with burnout and negative mindsets, one remarkable couple has emerged as a beacon of hope and creativity, bringing a refreshing twist to dining in Denver.
Cliff and Cara Blauvelt are the forces behind Odie B’s, a concept that has transitioned from a simple sandwich shop to a staple of Denver’s culinary scene since its inception in 2022.
The journey of Odie B’s is more than just a success story; it embodies the spirit of resilience and the desire to create a positive work environment.
Cliff Blauvelt, the owner, recalls his motivation to enter the restaurant business.
During a challenging conversation at his previous job, an owner told him, “You’ll understand when you have your own place.” This remark only fueled his determination to create a restaurant aligned with his values, stating, “I was tired of people being treated poorly.”
Despite the setbacks caused by the pandemic, Cliff persisted in his dream, illustrating not just the reality of opening a restaurant but also the power of personal conviction.
Odie B’s began as a humble sandwich shop, but its rapid growth has made it a beloved dining destination in the Denver metro area.
After starting in Sunnyside, the establishment quickly opened a second location in Rino, making it more accessible to diners.
Cliff emphasizes the collaborative spirit among his team rather than a singular focus on favorites when it comes to the menu.
He states, “I don’t have favorites in life…Hanging out tasting and creating with the team is my favorite.” This collaborative approach is reflected in the menu, which features innovative takes on beloved classics.
For instance, the team reimagined iconic fast-food burgers in their offerings.
Inspired by the Big Mac and the Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese, Cliff and his team developed their signature burger, integrating elements like dill pickled onions and a Colorado twist on the classic sauce with a green chile relish.
The emphasis at Odie B’s is not just on nostalgia, but on creating dishes that are significantly better than what one could make at home.
Cliff notes, “If it’s not better than the competition, it’s not going on the menu.”
With such a diverse menu catering to everyone, Odie B’s has developed a cult following.
Brunch offerings like The Hustler – which features house chorizo, scrambled eggs, roasted green chiles, tots, cheddar jack, and habanero crema in a flour tortilla – and the Vegan Birth of Cool, with marinated soy curls and sweet-spicy tofu bacon, demonstrate the range of options available.
Cliff, however, dismisses trends like bottomless mimosas as “a real hangover for Monday,” emphasizing the quality of the food over spectacle.
Looking ahead, Cliff and Cara are poised to expand even further with their new venture, Boombots Pasta Shop, expected to open later this year in Sunnyside.
This project is inspired by the minimalist yet inviting vibe of ramen shops, with a promise to serve house-made pasta in a comfortable setting perfect for solo diners or groups.
Cliff describes Boombots as Odie B’s “bougee older brother” – creative, unpretentious, and designed to inspire.
He highlights the versatility of pasta, aiming to present it in a manner that is both approachable and unique, pushing culinary boundaries while maintaining a fun and colorful atmosphere.
The ethos of both Odie B’s and Boombots relies on creating inclusive spaces where hospitality shines.
As they navigate the nuances of restaurant ownership—the highs and lows of the culinary world—Cliff remains grounded in the importance of listening to guests and focusing on the welfare of his staff.
He emphasizes, “Ride the waves. There will be ups and downs, don’t hold onto either.”
The Blauvelts also prioritize fostering a positive workplace culture, proving their commitment to changing the industry.
Cliff states, “Our success is built more off our teams.” This sentiment reflects a dedication to hiring individuals who align with their values and contribute positively to the restaurant environment.
Odie B’s proudly participates as a Colorado Recovery Friendly Workplace, working toward reducing substance abuse among restaurant workers.
With around 70% of their staff, including the owners themselves, identifying as being in active recovery, the Blauvelts emphasize the importance of creating a supportive environment that encourages personal growth.
The couple is set to celebrate six years of sobriety in July 2025, a testament to their commitment to wellness within the industry.
Patrons of Odie B’s know they are not just indulging in delicious sandwiches and soon-to-come pasta, but also supporting a positive cultural shift.
With the question lingering, “Are you down with Odie B’s?” the answer is a resounding, “Yeah, you know me.”
Odie B’s Sunnyside is located at 2651 W 38th Ave., Denver.
They are open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays.
image source from：303magazine
