Denver's legendary "sausage king" is back. Jim Pittenger, better known as Biker Jim, has made his triumphant return to the city's food scene with a new stall at Avanti Food & Beverage in LoHi. After some well-publicized business challenges, the former repo man turned culinary icon is proving that a good man—and great gourmet hot dogs—can't be kept down.
The gourmet dogs that made Biker Jim famous are back with a vengeance. Adventurous eaters can once again sink their teeth into his legendary creations featuring ostrich, veal, and elk-jalapeño-cheddar sausages. The wacky topping combinations that defined his original venture have also returned—think caramelized apples, shaved cheddar, and wasabi aioli creating flavor explosions that defy conventional hot dog wisdom.
But Pittenger isn't just retreading old ground. He's expanded his repertoire to include brunch basics like pancakes and waffles, as well as desserts. The cheesecakes have quickly become a must-try for anyone visiting the stall. "Come for the red hots, stay for the cheesecakes" has become the unofficial motto among fans.
Pittenger's journey from repo man to food cart pioneer to restaurateur has always been unconventional, and this comeback chapter fits perfectly into his story. His irreverent approach to the humble hot dog helped put Denver's food truck scene on the map over a decade ago, inspiring a generation of culinary entrepreneurs.
For long-time fans who mourned when Biker Jim's original location closed, this return feels like a reunion with an old friend. And for newcomers to Denver's food scene, it's a chance to experience a true local legend. Some things are worth waiting for—and apparently, gourmet wild game hot dogs are one of them.