Bowls by KO, a popular culinary concept known for its health-conscious offerings, is set to open its first permanent restaurant at 1611 N Raleigh St in Denver’s West Colfax neighborhood. This significant move marks a new chapter for the brand, which has operated a successful stall at Avanti food hall for nearly three years.
The transition to a standalone location reflects the growing demand for Bowls by KO’s unique menu, which is entirely gluten-, soy-, and refined sugar-free. The concept began in 2019 as a meal delivery service, spearheaded by chef and owner Katelin Overton. Over the years, Overton has expanded the brand’s reach from delivery to a food truck, and eventually to full-service catering, before establishing a presence at Avanti in 2022.
The Journey from Finance to Food
Katelin Overton’s path to culinary entrepreneurship is as unique as her menu. According to Voyager Denver, Overton transitioned from a corporate finance career to the culinary world after facing personal health challenges. Her struggle with gut health led her to adopt a diet free from gluten, soy, and refined sugars, inspiring her to explore healthier cooking solutions.
“I wanted to create food that not only tastes good but also makes you feel good,” Overton shared in an interview. Her dedication to health-conscious cooking has resonated with a growing audience seeking nutritious dining options.
A Menu Rooted in Local Ingredients
The new Bowls by KO location will offer a diverse menu featuring grain bowls, baked goods, and a selection of beer and wine, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients. The menu also includes brunch dishes like kimchi fried rice and cashew milk oats, alongside snacks such as sweet potato fries, Brussels sprouts, and hummus plates.
“Our focus is on quality ingredients and innovative flavors,” Overton explained. “We want to provide a dining experience that is both satisfying and nourishing.”
This emphasis on local sourcing and healthful ingredients aligns with broader trends in the food industry, where consumers are increasingly prioritizing sustainability and wellness.
Implications for the Denver Dining Scene
The opening of Bowls by KO’s first standalone restaurant comes at a time when Denver’s dining scene is experiencing a resurgence of interest in health-oriented eateries. The city’s growing population and its reputation as a hub for active lifestyles make it an ideal location for Overton’s expanding brand.
Industry experts suggest that Bowls by KO’s success could inspire other local food entrepreneurs to explore similar health-focused concepts. The move also highlights a shift in consumer preferences toward more transparent and nutritious dining options.
By the Numbers: The U.S. gluten-free market is projected to reach $7.59 billion by 2027, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 9.2%.
Looking Ahead
As Bowls by KO prepares to open its doors in West Colfax, the anticipation among local food enthusiasts is palpable. The restaurant’s launch is expected to attract a diverse clientele, from health-conscious diners to curious foodies eager to experience Overton’s innovative menu.
Looking forward, Overton plans to continue exploring new culinary horizons while maintaining her commitment to healthful, delicious food. The success of Bowls by KO could pave the way for further expansion, potentially setting a precedent for other health-focused eateries in the region.
The opening of Bowls by KO’s first standalone restaurant represents not just a milestone for the brand, but also a testament to the growing appetite for nutritious, locally sourced dining options in Denver and beyond.
