Interview with Vanessa Menke, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: My mother, Jayne Barth, and I opened Kate’s Wine Bar six years ago. It was a great success so we went around the corner to Main St. and opened a brew bar two years ago. Kate is my grandmother and Jake is my grandfather, and we wanted to honor both of them. We sold Kate’s in March and have expanded Jake’s to include a beer garden in back.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: We offer an excellent selection of 36 craft beers on tap, two English cask beers and more than 30 craft beers and cider by the bottle. We also have a nice selection of wine and liquor. Our coffee and espresso beans are roasted locally. We try to support Colorado businesses so you’ll see Colorado retail items, and our food menu is from local food producers. Littleton is a fun destination with owner-run businesses and a home town feel.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: A fast-paced environment, great customers and knowledgeable staff. Craft beer production is exploding and it’s fun to have a great selection of beer and cider to choose from. We rotate our beer menu regularly and our customers enjoy the world-wide variety we offer. We love Old Town Littleton and the friendly local merchants. It’s a great place to have a business.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: As with any small business, there is a lot to do to make sure things run smoothly. Our expansion into 2530 W. Main St. was a lot of work but we’re excited to have more space and the most beautiful beer garden in the area.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: Mom and I left our corporate jobs over 6 years ago to follow our dream of being in business together. We named the bars after grandmother and grandfather, and our family (aunts, uncles, cousins) have been there to help with the buildouts. We’re a close family and it comes through in the friendly atmosphere of our establishments.
Profile
Business: Jake’s Brew Bar
Address: 2540 W. Main St., Littleton
Hours: 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m.-midnight Friday, 8 a.m.-midnight Saturday
Founded: 2012
Contact: 303-996-1006,
Employees: 10
