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Led by Chef Reginald Dotson, Ash’Kara—a two-time Michelin Bib Gourmand award winner in Denver’s LoHi neighborhood—brings the vibrant flavors of North Africa, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean to life. Dotson’s thoughtful, ingredient-driven cooking has earned Michelin recognition in back-to-back years, a testament to both his culinary vision and the restaurant’s welcoming spirit. 

At the heart of Ash’Kara’s kitchen is a wood-fired oven that bakes authentic pita to order and infuses vegetables, proteins, and breads with a gentle smokiness. The menu—featuring slow-cooked tagines, vibrant dips, and shareable plates—is designed to spark connection at the table while showcasing Colorado’s freshest seasonal produce. 

Chef Dotson and his team approach each dish with care and creativity, balancing authenticity with modern flair. With abundant vegetarian options, plentiful gluten-free offerings, and thoughtful accommodations for allergies, Ash’Kara ensures every guest feels at home. More than a restaurant, it is a warm gathering place where Chef Dotson’s award-winning cuisine, local produce, and community come together in true celebration. 

Reggie Dotson

Executive Chef

Chef Reggie Dotson leads the kitchen at Ash’Kara, a two-time Michelin Bib Gourmand winner that celebrates the flavors of North Africa, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean.

A Denver native, Reggie’s earliest lessons in cooking came from necessity—preparing meals for his younger brother while his mother worked nights and experimenting with recipes from cookbooks. Inspired by his grandmother’s South Carolina roots, he developed a love for Southern cooking and the art of transforming simple ingredients into soulful dishes.

He earned degrees in Culinary Arts and Food Management from Johnson & Wales, and went on to build his career at Kiawah Club in South Carolina, The Brown Palace, Acorn, and Bar Dough—where he discovered his passion for pasta and sauces. After joining Ash’Kara, Reggie immersed himself in its global traditions and rose to Executive Chef. Today, he brings heart, heritage, and curiosity to every plate.

Max MacKissock

Chief Culinary Officer

Max has manned and directed kitchens in Colorado for over 18 years. His years of studying technique and tradition in Italy combined with his in-depth knowledge of classical French cuisine have fueled his passion for creating truly memorable dining experiences. Max has created a loyal following through his past projects in both Summit County and Denver, and he has consistently earned accolades from the press, industry professionals and, most importantly, his peers. He joined forces with O'Shea and Padró to open Bar Dough in 2015 and the trio has gone on to open Señor Bear, Ash'Kara, Mister Oso, A5 Steakhouse (named 25 Best Restaurants by 5280 Magazine, Best Steakhouse in Denver by Tasting Table, Best Steakhouse by Denver Westword and Top Steakhouse by 5280 Magazine), Ay Papi, Fox And The Hen and Red Tops Rendezvous as well as consulting on launches of 7908 Aspen, Sofia and Maine Shack

Our Woodfire Oven

At the heart of Ash’Kara is our wood fire oven—a true hearth that brings warmth, flavor, and life to our kitchen. It’s where our chefs handcraft pillowy pita, roast tender chicken, and draw out the deep, smoky sweetness of our famous carrots and seasonal vegetables. More than just a cooking method, the fire connects us to tradition, gathering, and the soulful flavors of the Mediterranean. Every dish touched by the flames carries that same spirit—rustic, honest, and unforgettable.