5505 W 20th Ave

One of metro Denver’s most beloved vegan food stalls is leveling up. Gladys Restaurant, the vegetable-forward concept from longtime friends and punk bandmates Rocky Hunter and David Grant, is moving into a much larger space at Edgewater Public Market this summer.

After three years in a cozy 276-square-foot stall, Gladys is taking over the former Meta Burger location, a 2,542-square-foot upgrade that will introduce table service, a chef’s counter, and a non-alcoholic beverage program.

“When we first opened, our counter felt like a pilot episode,” said Hunter. “This new space lets us tell the full story.”

Named after Hunter’s grandmother, Gladys has built a loyal following with its rotating seasonal menu, grandma-style hospitality, and signature vegan Reuben made from celery root and topped with chicory kraut and horseradish crème fraîche.

The expansion will feature ceramic plates, a clean and minimal interior, and views directly into the kitchen. It’s a major step for a brand that started as a punk-fueled passion project.

“The food at Gladys is among the best in town,” said Alan Bruno, COO of CentrePoint Properties, which acquired Edgewater Public Market in December. “We’re thrilled to see what they can do with a bigger kitchen and a full-service setup.”

Gladys plans to reopen in its new digs before the end of the summer.