About Us

In 2007, our goal was to combine traditional hospitality, quality handmade food and local microbrews in a historic setting with a fantastic atmosphere.

Three years later, Wholly Stromboli opened in the 103-year-old St. John Building, preserving its historical elements and displaying artifacts found during renovations in the bar area. Some believe the building holds the presence of past occupants, adding intrigue. Melissa Rickman, co-owner and executive chef, attributes our success to our amazing staff, serving handmade cuisine in a friendly environment that attracts visitors from all over. We thank our hardworking team and loyal customers for our five years of accomplishments, during which we made a remarkable amount of dough, strombolis, marinara sauce, and meatballs. We take pride in preparing food with locally sourced ingredients, offering a unique quality found only at Wholly Stromboli. Thank you for being a part of our journey!

– Eric and Melissa Rickman, Owners, and the entire Wholly Stromboli Staff

The Building

Wholly Stromboli resides in the historic Saint John building, originally a two-story mercantile constructed in 1889 by prominent Fort Luptonite Edgar St. John. Despite a fire that almost destroyed it, the building’s water storage tank on the roof ruptured, aiding in extinguishing the flames. With insurance funds insufficient for a full reconstruction, Edgar rebuilt the St. John as a single-story mercantile, featuring restored seventeen-foot-high stamped tin ceilings visible in the dining room today.

Over the past century, the building has housed various businesses, including a hardware store, pool parlor, dance hall, barber shop, ice cream shop, Honstein’s Home Improvement, and most recently, office space for the Fort Lupton Press. There are rumors of lingering spirits from past occupants, occasionally making their presence felt, so keep an eye out! If you have any stories about this historic building, we would love to hear them.

The Restaurant

Wholly Stromboli, driven by an unwavering commitment to excellence and bolstered by the steadfast support of family and friends, has embarked on a remarkable journey. The goal: to transform the historic St. John building into a culinary empire that honors its architectural heritage while infusing it with contemporary vitality. The renovation process was a labor of meticulous care, resulting in Wholly Stromboli – a vivid testament to the preservation of the past’s architectural legacy, now blended seamlessly with modern vibrancy.

Upon entering, the grandeur of our establishment unfolds, revealing carefully curated dining areas tailored to diverse tastes and occasions. The main dining room’s inviting ambiance fosters warm conversations, while the veranda offers an outdoor haven to relish delectable cuisine amidst nature’s embrace. The renowned Speakeasy beckons those seeking an exclusive experience, shrouded in an air of sophistication. Complementing these spaces is a cozy bar, where kindred spirits convene to unwind. Throughout the revitalization, captivating artifacts from the building’s rich history were discovered and thoughtfully integrated into the restaurant, serving as poignant reminders of the legacy embraced. As you indulge in our offerings, take a moment to connect with the stories these artifacts silently convey. Wholly Stromboli takes immense pride not only in crafting an extraordinary dining journey but also in building a culinary empire that radiates excellence – inviting you to become a cherished part of an ever-evolving and vibrant narrative.