Interview with Alan Zizmor, general manager and owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: I have lived in Genesee for 14 years after moving from New York City. I owned an operated (212) Salad & Sandwich Co. in Denver for nine years and always thought we were lacking a great neighborhood restaurant/bar up here. When this spot became available, I jumped at the opportunity because I feel this location, being so close to the highway, allows us to be not only a local favorite but a destination restaurant/bar as well.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: I think the first thing that distinguishes us is our location. We are a bit of a hideaway tucked away in the corner of a shopping center, but once you know we are here, it really is a good location. The next thing that distinguishes us is our ambience. We have — hands down — one of the nicest outdoor patios in all of Colorado. We have 44 seats, couches, TVs, fireplaces and humongous umbrellas that can keep the pouring rain away. Our decor, I like to call Urban Mountain. The thing that probably distinguishes us the most is our chef, Nick Shankland. He is an extraordinary talent and, at the ripe old age of 25, he has a bright, long future ahead of him. I am proud to be working with him. Our menu is New American with appetizers divided into Veg, Sea and Farm and, for entrees, our Naked Fried Chicken and HK+B Burger are right up there with the best in town. We offer weekend brunch and our lunch menu changes every month. We also offer happy hour every day with drink specials all day long and food specials from 3-6 p.m.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: The restaurant business is a tough business with long hours and small margins, but there is a lot of reward that comes with it. When people choose our restaurant, it is a chance to give them an experience that they will not forget. It is both an honor and a privilege to serve our guests and to exceed their expectations every time.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Our biggest challenge is raising our identity and letting people know we are here. It seems like people in Genesee still do not we are here, let alone people in Golden, Lakewood, Evergreen and Denver. We are very fortunate to have a very loyal following and are very thankful for that, but we need to make sure that following grows.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: I have an 11-year-old daughter who is my pride and joy. I am so proud to be her father and I learn from her on a daily basis. I love being her father.
Profile
Business: Hideaway Kitchen + Bar
Address: 25948 Gensee Trail Road, Golden
Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday
Founded: 2012
Contact:303-526-0556; ; @hideawaykitchen
Employees: 18
