About Ash'Kara

Ash'Kara is an exploration of contemporary Middle Eastern Cuisine cuisine which, like our name, borrows flavors from throughout the regions of the Middle East, Mediterranean, and Northern Africa. 

Centered around a 900-degree brick oven, the menu begins with Chef Reggie Dotson artisan, heritage grain wood-fired pita (and a to-die-for gluten free version too!) Hand-whipped hummus, the best falafel this side of the Jordan, and an array of authentic dips and spreads are the Ash’Kara signature. Inventive creations down the menu make a crave-able snack for one or a memorable feast to share. Join us at the kebab shop for an elevated taste of mid-east street fare, devour a pita-wrapped shawarma sandwich or choose from an array of addictive noshes. 

A naturally vegetable-forward menu makes Ash’Kara the perfect spot for non-meat eaters, vegans and those with food sensitivities, with ample proteins to satisfy any hunger. As always, Chef Reggie is uncompromising in his quest for environmentally sustainable and ethical sourcing across all ingredients, and that integrity is evident in every rip, smear, and bite of Ash’Kara’s unorthodox culinary interpretations. 

OUR CHEF TEAM

Max Mackissock

The Culinary Creative Group

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.

Reggie Dotson

Executive Chef

Reggie Dotson, born in Denver, Colorado, discovered his passion for cooking as a child while caring for his younger brother. Through experimentation and studying cookbooks, he developed a knack for creating unique recipes. Influenced by his grandmother's South Carolina roots, Reggie fell in love with southern cooking's transformative power.

Initially drawn to pastry, Reggie attended culinary school while working nights at a hotel. However, his time on the kitchen line revealed his true calling as a chef. After graduating from Johnson & Wales in Denver, he gained experience at various renowned establishments, building his skills and leadership.

At Bar Dough, Reggie honed his pasta-making and sauce-crafting abilities while working with esteemed Chef Carrie Baird. This experience solidified his love for these culinary arts. Now, as the Executive Chef at Ash'Kara, Reggie aims to create nostalgic memories by infusing old-world classic recipes with flavors that resonate with guests' culinary traditions and ancestral heritage.