After less than four months in downtown Phoenix, Golden Oak Barbecue & Taproom, which won The Republic’s reader’s choice poll for the best new restaurant of 2025, has permanently closed.
A strongly-worded letter signed by executive chef Grant McLennon was posted on the door of the restaurant on Feb. 11.
The letter’s opening statement read, “To all Phoenicians, we offer our most heartfelt gratitude for the reception you have all so graciously gifted us. Our tenure, albeit short-lived, was earmarked by excitement, acceptance and curiosity from this community that we will carry with us long after our departure.”…