It’s not difficult to find a place to grab a cup of coffee, a bite to eat, or a beer in Jefferson County, but do you know where to go when you’re looking for something homegrown? Locally crafted? Something that supports the vision, talents and hard work of a neighbor, start to finish, instead of a national chain? (Yes, chain establishments employ local people, but you see what we’re going for here.) Here are four places to consider the next time you’re out on the town and looking to “go local”.
WestFax Brewing Co.
Address:6733 W. Colfax Ave., Lakewood
Hours: 3-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 2-11 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday, noon-8 p.m. Sunday
Founded: 2016
Website:What the owner says sets them apart: “We strive to provide our customers with the best quality beer possible and a really cool, laid-back atmosphere in our tap room where they (customers) can enjoy our beer.” —Anthony Martuscello, president
The Sugar Cube
Address:4313 Wadsworth Blvd., Wheat Ridge
Hours: 5:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday
Founded: 2015
What the owner says sets them apart: “I would say what sets me apart from other coffee shops is the care I take in making each customer’s special drink. I would also say that this is a one-of-a-kind shop. The drive-up (or walk-up) makes it so easy for my customers, especially the young moms as they can get their special treat without having to get out of the vehicle. I will also make drinks for little children for a low price.” —Donna Stallman, owner
Racca’s Pizzeria Napoletana
Address:14500 W. Colfax Ave.Suite 345,Lakewood
11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday
(Note: Racca’s Colorado Mills location is temporarily closed due to hailstorm damage, visit the website for other locations or to keep up-to-date on the reopening.)
Founded: 2008
Website:What the owner says sets them apart: “Itap the only pizza restaurant in the state with VPN certification. This means that the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (or VPN) has verified that our products meet strict guidelines in making Neapolitan pizza, from its preparation to its ingredients and cooking techniques. These rules of authenticity originally set in place by the VPN guarantee the quality of pizzas made and respect the traditional art of Neapolitan pizza.” —Mark and Kristy Dym, owners
Cilantro Truck
Address:2400 Ford St., Golden
Hours:Varied
Founded: 2012
What the owner says sets them apart: “Everything that comes off the Cilantro Truck grill is made fresh-to-order using quick, steam-based cooking techniques with absolutely no added fats or oils. This cooking approach helps preserve the natural enzymes and minerals in all the organic produce we serve, aiding in the digestion and absorption of the plantap essential nutrients.” — Chaz Hager, owner