MALIAKAI
DESIGN

Blackbelly marked the beginning of our long-standing partnership with Chef Hosea Rosenberg. Following his victory on Bravo's Top Chef Season 5, Hosea envisioned a restaurant that celebrated Colorado's agricultural community through exceptional food, responsible sourcing, and genuine hospitality. Our role was to transform that vision into a space that felt authentic, approachable, and unmistakably connected to its roots.

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Inspired by Colorado's farms and ranches, the design combines reclaimed wood, exposed steel, natural materials, and warm lighting to create an environment that is both refined and welcoming. An open floor plan encourages connection between the dining room and kitchen, allowing guests to experience the energy and craftsmanship behind every meal. Every material and detail was selected to reinforce Blackbelly's commitment to authenticity, quality, and community.

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Beyond creating a memorable guest experience, the restaurant was carefully planned to support the demanding operations of a chef-driven kitchen. Efficient circulation, flexible seating, and thoughtful back-of-house planning allow the restaurant to perform seamlessly while maintaining an intimate and comfortable atmosphere.

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When Blackbelly opened in 2014, it quickly became one of Colorado's premier dining destinations, earning Best New Restaurant honors and consistently ranking among 5280 Magazine's Top 25 Restaurants. As the restaurant continued to grow, so did our collaboration. In 2016, we designed the adjoining Blackbelly Butcher, expanding the brand with Boulder's only whole-animal artisanal butcher shop. In 2022, we returned to create a private dining room that accommodates chef's dinners, celebrations, wine tastings, and corporate events.

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Designed as a natural extension of the original restaurant, the private dining room features soaring wood ceilings, exposed steel trusses, oversized contemporary lighting, and handcrafted materials that create a warm yet sophisticated setting. Large sliding barn doors provide flexibility, allowing the space to function as an intimate private venue or seamlessly connect to the restaurant for larger gatherings.

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What began as a single restaurant has grown into a partnership spanning five hospitality projects—including Blackbelly, Blackbelly Butcher, Santo, Blackbelly Market, and Morso. That continued collaboration reflects a shared commitment to thoughtful design, exceptional hospitality, and creating restaurants that become lasting parts of their communities.