Ollie and Parks, a modern American tapas restaurant nestled between North Capitol Hill and City Park West, enriches the shared dining experience in Denver. Opened in September 2024 by proprietors Jason Alfonso and Halie Thomas, this vibrant eatery brings innovative small plates, a vibrant happy hour, and an inviting atmosphere to the city’s culinary scene. With a refined but accessible menu, Ollie and Parks is the kind of place where diners can indulge in a feast of flavors or enjoy a simple plate of meatballs and a beer at the bar.
Jason, the executive chef, and Halie, a certified sommelier, have a passion for hospitality that began in Vero Beach, Florida, where they opened their first restaurant. Their latest venture is named after their children, Oliver and Parker, reflecting the warm, familial spirit of the establishment. In addition to Ollie and Parks, they also own Odyssey Italian Restaurant in Denver, which they purchased in 2021.
Managing partner Ned Nichols, who met Jason and Halie in the industry 20 years ago, emphasizes the restaurant's communal approach to dining: "It really is meant to be shared. Everybody pick one, try a round, do another round." The tapas menu boasts around 40 thoughtfully crafted items, with only two priced above $20, ensuring a high-value experience without compromising on quality.
Chef de Cuisine Marcus Herrera brings his own touch to the menu, which blends quality ingredients and bold flavors. Brunch at Ollie and Parks is a welcome addition to the neighborhood on the weekend and an experience in itself. The Breakfast Charcuterie board is a beautifully composed spread of flaky croissants, smoky ham, fresh fruits, house-made jam and mustard, creamy pimento cheese, and tangy house pickles—perfect for a leisurely morning with mimosas and friends. The Fried Green Tomato Benedict offers a delightful Southern twist on a classic, layering crispy fried green tomatoes atop a toasted English muffin, topped with perfectly poached eggs and velvety hollandaise.
The eclectic tapas menu, available for both the lunch and dinner hour, is where Ollie and Parks truly shines. The Baby Blue Salad is a refreshing mix of crisp apple, red onion, candied pistachios, and tangy blue cheese, offering a perfect balance of rich and crisp. Seafood lovers will be drawn to the Scallops, slightly blackened with a mélange of spices and served atop a silky parsnip puree that enhances their natural sweetness. The Shrimp Gnocchi, featuring soft pillows in a bright pea puree with lemon beurre blanc, is the perfect harmony of satisfying and elegant.
For heartier fare, the Short Rib Tacos are pure comfort food, reminiscent of a slow-braised pot roast, with tender beef bathed in a rich Parmesan broth and topped with crispy fried greens and fresh tomato. For vegetarian fare, the Roasted Carrots with quinoa, dates, and carrot jus bring earthy, caramelized flavors to the table, while the Vegetable Risotto is a vibrant medley of red onion, artichokes, bell pepper, asparagus, and lemon, finished with a luscious Parmesan broth. And, of course, the Scalloped Potatoes, enveloped in a signature four-cheese sauce, provide the ultimate indulgence.
Ollie and Parks’ drink program is as carefully curated as its food menu. Bar Manager Evan Fischbach curates an inspired drink program, crafting both cocktails and mocktails with house-made mixers and syrups. As Ned notes, "Everything is 100% fresh, you know, from our mixes to our syrups to our bitters. He’s making them all." The Winged Wheel, made with reposado tequila, passionfruit, amaro, and yuzu, offers a bold yet refreshing citrus-kissed sip. The View from Fuji, blending Japanese whiskey, guava, lemon, and house cherry bitters, is a smooth and subtly tropical delight.
For those opting for non-alcoholic options, the Mint Lavender Lemonade is an herbal and citrusy refresher. At the same time, the Basil Pineapple Spritz provides a sweet and slightly spiced alternative with a hint of cinnamon.
Beyond the food and drinks, Ollie and Parks is about heartfelt service. "I look for people with empathy more than skills," says Ned. "Genuine care, a genuine thank you." This philosophy is evident in every interaction, making the dining experience not just about great food but also about feeling truly welcomed.
With its knowledgeable staff, inviting atmosphere, and thoughtfully crafted menu, Ollie and Parks has quickly become a standout in Denver’s dining scene. Whether stopping by for a quick happy hour drink or settling in for an evening of shared plates, guests can expect an experience that is both elevated and approachable—just as their team intended.
To learn more about Ollie and Parks or make a reservation, visit OllieParks.com.