See also: Steve's Snappin' Dogs gets a Snappin' Ale from Bull & Bush
Before opening, the Steve's crew used an electric fryer to cook up some samples. "We probably served about 300 United and DIA people," says Ballas. "They're all excited. it's reasonably priced, with something for everybody. They're excited that there are so many local flavors."Those flavors include ten of the specialty dogs that have created so many fans of the original Steve's on Colfax, five of the burgers and sandwiches, as well as a Cobb salad, a veggie salad, a turkey wrap and a veggie wrap. The DIA Steve's will also have the fried green beans, skin-on French fries, onion rings and sweet potato tots that are popular sides. A "Steve's on the Go" area will offer quick service, with breakfast sandwiches and breakfast burritos available all day. The menu is a "little bit limited," says Ballas, "but as we go on, we may bring on other items."
There are no shakes or malts, for example, but there will be fresh lemonade and limeade. The DIA Steve's also has a beer and wine license, and will have a dozen local craft beers on tap -- including the Snappin' Ale created by the Bull & Bush -- as well as some local wines.
And the decor even has the flavor of the original. Ballas was there when the sign was finally turned on, and "I actually welled up," he says. "To see your name on a wall at the fifth busiest airport in the country...."
Steve's will be open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily starting tomorrow. Keep reading for more photographs from Brandon Marshall to get a real taste of the place.
Keep reading for more photos of Steve's Snappin' Dogs at DIA.Follow @CafeWestword