A new culinary destination is set to ignite the Downtown Phoenix food scene this fall with the arrival of Golden Oak Barbecue & Taproom, a full-service restaurant and craft beer taproom created through a unique partnership between two East Valley favorites.
Golden Oak is the result of a collab between Chris Figueroa, the mastermind behind Nicky’s Barbecue pop-up, and Dave Valencia, the founder of Oro Brewing Company. Since opening in 2016, Oro Brewing has gained a loyal following and earned numerous gold medals at the Arizona Craft Beer Awards.
Figueroa, a seasoned barbecue chef with over a decade of experience, developed his style in St. Louis before launching his own brand. His Peruvian heritage profoundly influences his culinary perspective, adding a unique layer to traditional smokehouse fare.
Together, Figueroa and Valencia are transforming the former Throne Brewing space into a welcoming, community-focused restaurant that fuses globally inspired barbecue, award-winning beer, and intentional hospitality. What began as two entrepreneurs exchanging ideas evolved into a full partnership and a shared vision for a new kind of barbecue experience in Downtown Phoenix.
“This is a place for people who love food with soul, beer with character, and spaces that bring people together,” Figueroa said. “We want guests to walk in and feel at ease.”
Golden Oak will depart from the casual, counter-service model commonly associated with barbecue joints, opting instead for full table service. The interior draws from rustic textures, natural materials, and layered lighting, creating an atmosphere that suits business lunches, date nights, celebratory dinners, and relaxed evenings with friends. Every element is designed to create a memorable experience.
“Barbecue and beer are a classic pair, but we want the experience to feel more elevated and intentional,” Valencia said. “We are trying to build something that feels like home. Golden Oak will be the kind of place where you know the owners and they know your order.”
Guests will find signature dishes inspired by barbecue regions around the world, layered with Figueroa’s Peruvian heritage. The menu features traditional favorites like Texas brisket and St. Louis cut ribs, alongside dishes with Hispanic and South American influences such as Papa a la Huancaína, a creamy Peruvian potato dish. Sides include a rotating mix of comfort classics like mac and cheese and Elote En Vaso.
“We set out to create more than a restaurant,” Figueroa said. “We want Golden Oak to feel like an experience. From our incredible barbecue to the way our team connects with every guest, everything we do is designed to make people feel welcome and cared for.”
The taproom will feature a list of Oro Brewing’s beers, including fan favorites like Trigo Suave and Hopiphany. Guests can also enjoy a range of lagers, sours, seasonal beers, as well as wine and craft cocktails. Stay tuned and visit goldenoakbbqtap.com or follow @goldenoakbbqtap on Instagram for more.
