Search Castle Rock August 2025
Search Castle Rock – May 2025 Issue This month’s Search Castle Rock Magazine celebrates the traditions, people, and stories that make our community so special. Celebrating Mothers – A heartfelt tribute to moms and the impact they have on family and community. Culinary Chronicles – Local dining favorites that bring flavor to Castle Rock. DIY Home Refresh – Easy projects that transform your living space. Snoozed: Mattress Upgrades – Why sleep is the foundation of a healthy home. Family History & Stories – How sharing your roots strengthens connection. Student & Athlete Spotlights – Honoring local achievements inside and outside the classroom. School & Parent Insights – Advice to support kids from kindergarten through high school. Senior Photos – Tips from local photographers to capture milestone memories. Douglas County Outdoors – The best hikes, parks, and summer adventures near Castle Rock. Proudly highlighting the spirit of Castle Rock, this issue blends family life, local food, education, and community pride.
Search Castle Rock – May 2025 Issue
This month’s Search Castle Rock Magazine celebrates the traditions, people, and stories that make our community so special.
Celebrating Mothers – A heartfelt tribute to moms and the impact they have on family and community.
Culinary Chronicles – Local dining favorites that bring flavor to Castle Rock.
DIY Home Refresh – Easy projects that transform your living space.
Snoozed: Mattress Upgrades – Why sleep is the foundation of a healthy home.
Family History & Stories – How sharing your roots strengthens connection.
Student & Athlete Spotlights – Honoring local achievements inside and outside the classroom.
School & Parent Insights – Advice to support kids from kindergarten through high school.
Senior Photos – Tips from local photographers to capture milestone memories.
Douglas County Outdoors – The best hikes, parks, and summer adventures near Castle Rock.
Proudly highlighting the spirit of Castle Rock, this issue blends family life, local food, education, and community pride.
Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!
Leverage SEO-optimized Flipbooks, powerful backlinks, and multimedia content to professionally showcase your products and significantly increase your reach.
AUGUST 2025
SEARCH
CASTLE ROCK
*****ECRWSS*****
POSTAL CUSTOMER
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
DENVER, CO
PERMIT 5377
Stand out from the crowd
71% of readers confirm purchasing products or services seen in Search Castle Rock
Join our
community and let
Search Castle Rock
connect you
with our 100,000
monthly readers.
bret@tuellers.com
303-805-9455
2 SEARCHCASTLEROCK
before
after
10% off
for military, first responders,
and public workers
call today for a free estimate
303-840-4725
cascademudjacking.com
AUGUST 2025 3
CONTENTS
10
Evolution Of A Student
A student’s journey is more than just reading and writing.
We got some insight from people who have experience.
BY SEARCH CASTLE ROCK STAFF
6 | LOCAL VOICE - Senior Photos
8 | EDUCATION - Light The Fire
12 | CUISINE - The Guide
14 | cuisine - Chronicles: Black+Haus
ON THE COVER
Local high school graduates
T
parker
colorado
t u e l l e r
p u b l i s h i n g
CASTLE
SEARCH
ROCK
Search Castle Rock is published by
Tueller Publishing, LLC
IDEAS & SUBMISSIONS
contribute@tuellers.com
NO . 260 | AUGUST 2025
Search Castle Rock ©2025 is published by Tueller Publishing, LLC. All rights
reserved. Reproduction in any form without prior written permission is
strictly prohibited. Search Castle Rock is mailed monthly to households
and businesses in the greater Castle Rock area free of charge.
Print makes
the difference
It’s real.
It gets noticed.
You can touch it, feel it, hold it, even smell it.
It stands out.
Let’s put it to work for you.
T
parker
FOR ALL YOUR PRINTING NEEDS
Letterhead • Business Cards • Forms • Etc.
colorado
t u e l l e r
p u b l i s h i n g
720-624-9600
bret@tuellers.com
AUGUST 2025 5
LOCAL VOICE
Senior photos are a big deal! This is probably the last major
photoshoot your child will have before their wedding day.
We asked Amber Allen, a local photographer, for some
tips to make the most of this iconic photoshoot.
1- Plan Your Outfits Ahead of Time
Choose 2–3 outfits that reflect your style—something casual, something dressy,
and maybe one that highlights your hobbies or school spirit. Avoid busy patterns,
neon colors, and branding.
2- Think About Location
Amber Allen
Do you love nature? The city? A place that means something to you? Talk with
your photographer about locations that match your style—you’ll feel more
comfortable and connected in a spot that feels like “you.”
3- Consider Professional Hair & Makeup
Amber Allen is
the heart behind
Echo Images
Photography!
She has 20 years
of experience
specializing in
creating bright,
natural, personalityfilled
portraits that
capture milestones
- especially senior
year, with a candid
and genuine,
yet traditional
approach. The
magical result...
images that feel
like you and make
this once-in-alifetime
season
unforgettable!
Treat yourself! Professional makeup artists know how to enhance your natural
beauty while making sure your features pop on camera (and stay put in the
heat or wind!). You’ll feel extra confident—and that glow shows in every shot.
4- Don’t Stress About Posing
Whether offering detailed posing suggestions, or giving prompts sure to elicit
reaction or emotion, your photographer will guide you every step of the way!
Focus on having fun, and let your real personality shine through. The best photos
happen when you’re relaxed and just being yourself.
5- Bring the Extras
Pack the essentials: hairbrush or comb, makeup touch-up items, water, lip balm,
and any props you may want (letterman jacket, instrument, sports gear, etc...).
A friend or parent to help out and hype you up never hurts, either!
6- Ask Anything—Your Photographer is Here to Help!
Struggling to make a decision on what to wear? Worried about the weather?
Need help choosing accessories or shoes? Don’t be shy—reach out! Your
photographer wants you to feel excited and prepared, and is happy to answer
any questions you have—they may even offer a consultation to walk through
everything so you feel confident and ready to truly shine on your session day.
6 SEARCHCASTLEROCK
AUGUST 2025 7
We’re so close to the end of summer!
Although, it’s not that surprising when you
remember we only get two months of
summer break. Whatever happened to “Back to School”
being in September? Oh, come on, don’t look at me like
that. I’m not the one who makes the schedule.
Starting the second week of August, kids across Douglas
County will be headed back to their desks. From enthusiastic
teachers and relieved parents to procrastinating kids,
back to school brings on a lot of emotions.
Light The
Fire
I should probably have told you from the beginning
that this article will be a bit biased. Not just because I’m
a student with some teaching experience, but because I
absolutely love school. I know - it’s pretty weird in today’s
society.
Even from a young age, back to school fascinated me.
The new clothes, new classes, new supplies and new
people made starting school so exciting! Most kids I knew
back in kindergarten and the younger elementary grades
were excited for school to begin.
As students grew older, the enthusiasm for school that
came easily when they were younger began to disappear.
It’s hard to be excited for school when you’re stressed
about summer assignments, pushing yourself to live up to
straight “A” standards, and always feeling overwhelmed
by the amount of work you have. I often felt stressed or
completely overwhelmed by school the older I got.
The reason I still love school, and particularly learning,
is centered on a quote I came across by Mark Twain.
He said, “I have never let my schooling interfere with my
education.” Once I realized that school and grades were
not the most important thing, I began to focus more on
furthering my knowledge and broadening my experiences.
This relieved so much of the stress and pressure from me,
and I was able to center my efforts on purely learning.
I still worked hard, doing all my assignments and studying
for my tests, but the attitude was different now. When you
focus on a single letter grade for an entire semester of
instruction and experience, you miss out on so much. I saw
that the more you enjoy learning, the more working on
grades came naturally.
As summer comes to an end and we head back to
school, I hope parents, teachers, and students will all
remember what school really is about. When we light the
fire of wanting to learn and become educated, that is
when school becomes truly wonderful.
Samia
HS Graduate 2019
8 SEARCHCASTLEROCK
First Day of School
Advice for Parents, from Parents and Teachers
If you have little ones, chances are
you’ve seen the movie “Finding
Nemo” dozens of times. You’ll recall
that scene early on, when Marlin is
terrified of sending Nemo off to school
for the first time. He’s overly cautious,
dubious of new experiences and
terrified that something will happen to
Nemo. Later in the movie, Dory puts
things in perspective by telling Marlin,
“Well, you can't never let anything
happen to him. Then nothing would
ever happen to him.” Letting go of
some of those fears and embracing
the amazing things that are to come
for your little one starting school is just
part of growing up… for us parents!
Perhaps you have some of the same
concerns our readers shared with us:
“I am worried about the longer day.
Preschool was only 2 1/2 hours;
kindergarten is a full day. I am worried
that I won’t have her ready. Will she
know her letters and numbers before
she goes? I don’t want her to be
behind.”
The longer day can be a little difficult
to adjust to for kids at the start of the
year, but it’s a quick adjustment.
Making sure they are getting to bed
and getting enough sleep each night
is paramount; establishing a routine
will help in all aspects of bedtime and
getting up and ready for their day.
Kindergartners come from all different
experiences. Some have been in full
day preschool/child care, some come
from a part time Pre-K experience and
others may not have experienced any
kind of school environment yet. If you
do have major social or academic
concerns at the start of the year, the
best thing to do is schedule a time to
speak to your child’s teacher.
“I was worried about her riding the bus
and that she wouldn’t find her way to
class initially. As time went on, I worried
about how others would treat her; she is
so sweet and sensitive. Was she safe at
school?”
The bus can be a big deal for kids.
It’s daunting and super exciting, all
at the same time. If you’re worried
about them getting on and off at the
right spot don’t be afraid to talk to the
bus driver, they can always give your
kiddo a little extra TLC until they get
the hang of it. Also, see if there’s an
older kid at their stop that can buddy
up with them until they (and you) are
a little more confident. As far as peer
relationships go, that’s something we
have very little control over, other than
to prepare your child, as best you can,
for interacting with others. Trust that
your little one will meet lots of kids they
enjoy spending time with in and out of
school. School safety is paramount.
Yes, teachers are there to educate
their students, but their safety and well
being are top priority. If parents have
specific concerns about safety, they
shouldn’t hesitate to talk to the school
staff about their policy and procedures
so you are fully advised on everything
they do to keep students, staff and
visitors safe at school.
“My middle child will be going into 1st.
He has anxiety (like we see a doctor
kind of anxiety). Kindergarten was
an amazing year for him. He loves
school, his teacher and friends. He
grew amazingly in both social and
academic areas. I’m worried about this
year. I’m worried that he’s not going
to be as comfortable and is going to
hate school. He shuts down completely
once his anxiety kicks in.”
Kids feed off of parent anxiety and
vice versa, so the more parents can
speak definitively and be matter-offact,
the better. Remind your child
what he’s accomplished so far and
always take the time to celebrate the
little successes. Maybe go outside
and blow bubbles while talking about
things causing any anxiety to reinforce
deep breathing. Also, it’s important
to engage kids in anything having
to do with numbers. Try counting in
patterns or do simple fun math games.
It’s proven that your brain can’t be
anxious at the same time it’s engaged
in activities that demand left brain
function. Another good idea is to set
some fun dates (outings, movies, etc.)
to look forward to that he can focus on
when he needs a happy place.
“My oldest is going into 3rd. She is
academically advanced (she is
working on a 6th grade level). I’m
worried about keeping her engaged
and challenged.”
Wow! That’s amazing. On the one
hand, a skilled teacher will recognize
and challenge her. On the other hand,
there truly is only so much a teacher
can do given the 20+ other kids in the
class. Be sure to talk with her teacher
and the administration to make sure
she is getting the interventions needed
throughout the year. Also, maybe see
about other enrichment activities they
may offer after school like robotics
or chess to peak her interest. Find
activities, not necessarily all focused on
the academic, that challenge her and
engage her at home.
“And then my youngest... heaven help
his teachers. He starts Pre-K this year.
He is academically and socially ready
but he is a handful. I worry about him
because he is a social butterfly. I don’t
want him getting in trouble and then
deciding that he hates school. But on
the other hand, I also don’t want him
to charm his way out of trouble. It’s a
Catch 22.”
Pre-K teachers are a very special
breed. Their patience and creativity
seems to be limitless, and many days
that is a good thing! So much of Pre-K
and even Kindergarten is learning
how to be a little human. The social
and emotional growth children gain
build confidence and demonstrate
a readiness to learn. Every child who
comes to Pre-K has that same lack
of school day experience, but those
teachers can work magic. Give ‘em a
week and watch what happens.
AUGUST 2025 9
EVOLUTION
of a
STUDENT
Tips for Success & Survival at Every Stage of School
Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd
Now that your little one is a “Big Kid” they need to start doing big kid things! Teachers of little ones suggest parents
help by making sure kiddos: know their full name, address, and mom/dad’s phone number; can write their name
with a capital beginning and the rest lowercase; can tie their shoes or wear Velcro until they are able; can open their
own lunch and snack; can put on and zip/snap their own jackets and backpacks.
“For parents with children entering elementary, it may be hard to let your little one do more for themselves, but by
giving them some control over some things it will allow them to learn/fail/succeed in a safe environment (home/
classroom). Being in charge of their learning is extremely important and that should be the end goal. Each year
students should take on another piece of control in their learning. In today’s world, it is becoming increasingly
important for students to advocate for themselves (mainly due to technology interaction with peers) and they should
learn to advocate both for their learning and in social situations. A true gem in my book is setting a goal, for any age,
to start the year. This can be started as early as kindergarten. If a child is struggling with behavior, setting a goal to
have positive days at school can have great outcomes in the future.” – 2nd grade teacher
“Try your best. Work hard. Pay attention to your teacher. Kindergarten is so much fun. You get to learn in a fun way.”
– 2nd grade student
3rd, 4th, and 5th
Make sure students have their multiplication and division facts memorized
as they head into higher level math and problem solving. It makes a
SIGNIFICANT difference! Foster a genuine love of reading. Encourage
(don’t force) kids to read chapter books (no matter how short or silly).
Take an interest in what your child is reading. Take them to the library or
book store, read chapter books aloud to/with your kids, and model a
love of reading as an adult.
“My advice for parents is to: 1. Let go a little. A fourth grader has never
died (that I know of) from forgetting a homework assignment or a
lunchbox. Sure that pang in their hearts when they realize they forgot
something is a shocker, but if kids are constantly saved from making even
the tiniest of mistakes, they will grow up thinking they are no good unless
they’re perfect. 2. Fourth grade teachers slowly push kids to do more
themselves and take responsibility for their own learning. It’s the switch
from “learning to read” to “reading to learn.” Encourage your child to
think for themself, ask questions, and seek answers.” – 4th grade teacher
“Be confident. You might mess up, but you can learn from your mistakes.”
– 4th grader
10 SEARCHCASTLEROCK
Middle School
Middle school is an essential transition that allows students to create good study and time management habits,
add to background knowledge and understanding, and continue to evolve and grow socially. Students start to
have some choices about classes they take and begin to explore their interests. They also continue to learn about
themselves and how they best learn and interact with peers and teachers. This growth will go a long way to prepare
them for high school and beyond, as they continue to master these skills. This is also an ideal time for parents to
practice a gradual release of responsibility to their students. As students move through middle school, parents should
encourage students to take the lead and become independent in preparation for high school. Stay involved.
Never stop asking about their day, their struggles, their successes, and how they are working towards their goals. It’s
the everyday conversations and time that make the most enduring impact for kids.
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions, even if you feel like you’re the only one who doesn’t understand. If you need to
clarify something or don’t understand; ask the question. It saves a lot of frustration and confusion. If you are too
nervous to ask in class, hang back a few minutes after class to talk to the teacher. They’d rather you understand than
leave not knowing what to do.” – 9th grader
High School
Organizational skills are key. Use an online calendar, an app, or a planner (like the ones used all through elementary
and middle school) to stay organized and on top of deadlines. Don’t wait until the last minute to complete
assignments. High school students are often busy with sports, clubs, jobs and other things, so finding a system that
works and utilizing time management is imperative and sets you up for success after graduation. Be accountable for
your work and advocate for yourself. In college or the workforce you will be expected to, so start now. It’s important
for parents to stay involved, but it’s critical that students take the lead.
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Go in and talk to your teachers, get the answers you need to understand. Everyone
will tell you this, and it’s true – high school really does fly by, so enjoy each year, every assembly, sporting event,
dance other special activities.” – 12th grader
ColorAd o
renAissAnCe FestivAl
& Artisan’s Marketplace
Return to the
Magic & Mystique
of the Renaissance!
EIGHT MAGICAL
WEEKENDS!
June 14 th - August 3 rd 2025
SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS ONLY • 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM
www.coloradorenaissance.com
AUGUST 2025 11
THE GUIDE
THE BEST PLACES TO DINE IN DOUGLAS COUNTY
In the interest of providing
the 50 best dining options
in Douglas County, we
must be able to personally
recommend each listing.
The guide is subject to
change. If you have a
suggestion for inclusion
on the list, email us at
contribute@tuellers.com.
KEY
Based on a typical dinner
for one person, excluding
drinks, tax or tip.
$ ............................. Under $15
$$ ............................... $15-$25
$$$ ......................... Over $25
(EC) Editors Choice
(N) New
Asian fusion
PEGASUS
A local favorite for breakfast and lunch, Pegasus has something for everyone. They have
served an ecletic menu in a comfortable setting for the past 31 years. While you're there, go
see the giant riverboat roulette wheel behind the bar!
DANCING NOODLE
A small, family owned, dinein
and take-out restaurant
that serves authentic
homestyle Thai food.
10841 S. Crossroads Dr.,
Suite 10, Parker
303-805-3880 $$
INDOCHINE
A local go-to for quality
home-style cuisine. This
Parker fixture is known for a
fresh, creative menu.
19751 E Mainstreet, Parker
720-851-8559 $$
ITO SUSHI ASIAN BISTRO
Asian fusion restaurant
known for quality ingredients
and fresh fish daily.
2240 Mercantile St #100,
Castle Rock
720-749-6777 $$ (N)
JOHN HOLLY’S
Chinese and Thai dishes
that are nothing less than
the culinary equivalent of an
exotic adventure.
9232 Park Meadows Dr,
Lone Tree
303-768-9088 $$
JUNZ
A favorite sushi place in
town with a unique blend of
Japanese and French at its
very best.
11211 S. Dransfeldt Rd.,
Parker
720-851-1005 $$
BAKERY/DESSERTs
LA PETITE CREPERIE
The locals favorite spot to
grab made-to-order crepes.
Sweet or savory, you can’t go
wrong. Proudly serving farm
to table fresh.
19751 Mainstreet,
Parker
720-638-9722 $ (EC)
PARIS BAGUETTE
Popular Korean chain that
brings expertly crafted
baked goods through a
warm and welcoming
bakery cafe’ experience that
delivers joy to everyone.
18374 Cottonwood Dr.,
Parker
720-500-5555 $ (N)
POULETTE BAKESHOP
New artisan bakers taking
Parker by storm. Order early,
they sell out every day!
19585 Hess Road, Parker
303-955-5647 $ (N)
BARBEQUE
BIG JIMS
Don’t be fooled by this being
a food truck; if you like
southern BBQ, this is your
place. Corner of Parker Rd
and Longs Way, Parker $$$
GQUE BBQ
Award-winning food. Try the
wood-smoked ribs, brisket,
pork, or garlic potatoes.
8433 Park Meadows Center
Dr., Suite 143B, Lone Tree
303-729-2506 $$
HICKORY HOUSE
The Parker tradition. Known
for their baby back ribs, but
don’t miss the pulled pork
and barbeque chicken.
10335 S Parker Rd, Parker
303-805-9742 $$
OLD WEST BBQ
A hidden gem with familyfriendly
pricing. Don’t miss
out on their breakfast
burritos. 107 Wolfensberger
Rd., Castle Rock
303-660-6340 $
BREW PUB
20 MILE TAP HOUSE
Best known for their burgers
and wings. Make sure to
catch Trivia Tuesdays.
12543 N Hwy 83, Parker
303-841-6782 $$
GREAT DIVIDE BREWERY
& ROADHOUSE
Destination locale with an
informal ambiance offering
hearty comfort classics
215 Wilcox St Suite G,
Castle Rock
303-955-5788 $$ - $$$ (N)
ROCKYARD BREWING CO.
Douglas County’s longest
running brew pub. Steaks,
burgers, pizza and soup!
880 Castleton Rd, Castle Rock
303-814-9273 $$
12 SEARCHCASTLEROCK
TAILGATE TAVERN
& GRILL
Your neighborhood tavern
for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Sports bar with live music
not to miss on the weekends.
19552 E. Mainstreet, Parker
303-841-7179 $$
THE LIBRARY CO.
BAR & KITCHEN
Offering great food &
amazing drinks in a relaxed
and warm atmosphere. Clear
and simple menu options.
3911 Ambrosia St.,
Suite 101, Castle Rock
720-389-5986 $$
ITalian
CRANELLI’S
Comfort Italian food in a
rustic, cozy, casual familyoriented
format.
10047 Park Meadows Dr.,
Lone Tree
303-799-3661 $$
DANIELLE’S
SCRATCH KITCHEN
Stylish, energetic eatery
offering elevated Italian fare
with an emphasis on great
customer service.
872 Happy Canyon Rd.
Suite 100, Castle Rock
303-524-9788 $$$
PORTOFINO
Authentic Italian eatery
featuring pizza, pasta,
calzones and heros. The local
“go-to” for fresh Italian.
10920 S Parker Rd, Parker
303-841-9900 $$
SCILEPPI’S
A modern Italian restaurant
focused on family recipes
and premium ingredients.
210 Third St., Castle Rock
303-688-9000 $$
VIA BACI
Neapolitan pizzas join
modern Italian fare at this
casual eatery featuring a full
bar & patio. 10005 Commons
St, Lone Tree
303-790-0828 $$
MEXICAN
ADRIANNA’S
Intimate Mexican eatery for
authentic cuisine in a relaxed
ambiance. Great for parties.
7272 E Hwy 86, Franktown
303-663-7800 $$
CASA MARIACHI
Unassuming local joint
serving up straight-forward
Mexican plates.
9771 S Parker Rd, Parker
720-842-5105 $$
LA LOMA
Upscale-rustic atmosphere
known for traditional Mexican
meals.
6361 Promenade Pkw,
Castle Rock
303-632-9900 $$ (N)
LAS POTRANCES
Casual Mexican restaurant
full of real Mexican culture,
Mexican Food, Fresh Drinks,
and Friendly Hospitality.
19600 Solar Cir, Parker
303-840-0325 $$ (N)
LOS DOS POTRILLOS
Elegant family-owned eatery.
There’s a combo dish to
please everyone.
6370 Promenade Pkwy.,
Castle Rock
720-769-5474 $$
LOS VOLCANES
Don’t miss the Carnitas! And
bring your appetite for the
large portions.
10471 S. Parker Rd., Parker
303-841-0160 $$
new american
CASTLE CAFE
Set in a former 1890s hotel.
Plating hearty American
fare like pan-fried chicken &
burgers.
403 Wilcox St, Castle Rock
303-814-2233 $$
VALERIE’S BREWHOUSE
Uniquely fun sports bar with
a creative menu of brats and
dogs.
971 Park St., Castle Rock
303-660-2399 $
CRAVE
A favorite gourmet burger
joint. Imaginative menu with
amazing handcrafted shakes.
3982 Limelight Ave,
Castle Rock
303-814-2829 $$
DOUG’S DAY DINER
American breakfast cafe
where everything is made
from scratch.
18595 Mainstreet,
Parker
720-476-7162 $$
MANNA
A casual sit-down destination
with a menu that reflects
Colorado’s growing season.
2350 Meadows Blvd.,
Castle Rock
720-455-3664 $
PARKER GARAGE
The Parker landmark located
right downtown offers a
locally-sourced menu. Great
service and large portions.
19420 Mainstreet, Parker
720-389-8105 $$ (EC)
PEGASUS
A local favorite for breakfast
or lunch. American, Greek or
Mexican dishes.
313 Jerry St., Castle Rock
303-688-6746 $$
RORY’S
Comfort food and baked
goods at their finest.
Don’t see it on the menu?
Ask for it!
11020 S Pikes Peak Dr.,
Parker
720-708-2889 $$
SIERRA
High-end, wood-fired
kitchen with a warm
ambiance, preparing
select American dishes.
10680 Cabela Dr.,
Lone Tree
303-662-8800 $$
TRIBE AT RIVERWALK
Upscale, yet casual dining
experience with a one-of-akind
menu. Don’t miss the
brunch.
115 Wilcox Street,
Castle Rock
303-362-0904 $$$ (N)
WEST MAIN TAPROOM
A modern and open venue
that boasts thoughtful and
honest cuisine. A haven for
the gluten-free crowd.
18595 Mainstreet, Parker
720-826-3689 $$
PIZZA
ANTONIO’S
A traditional family-style
Italian pizza restaurant with
a Brooklyn flair.
12947 S Parker Rd., Parker
720-851-5300 $
ARTISAN
Delicious Neapolitan-style
pizza that makes each dish
an individual work of art! And
don’t forget dessert.
12311 Pine Bluffs Way, Parker
303-840-0518 $
COLORADOUGH
A refreshing take on madefrom-scratch
pizza. So fresh
they don’t even have a
freezer! 17860 Cottonwood
Dr., Parker
303-386-3333 $$
LIL’ RICCI’S
New York pizzas & other red
sauce staples in a low-key
setting. Can’t miss the garlic
knots. 16526 Keystone Blvd,
Parker
303-220-7422 $$
PARRY’S
NY-style pizza, wings, &
casual Italian eats, in kidfriendly
quarters.
5650 Allen Way,
Castle Rock
303-814-8686 $$
AUGUST 2025 13
Culinary Chronicles
PHOTO PHOTO FROM FROM STONEGATE BLACK+HAUS CAFE
Black+Haus Tavern | 19501 Mainstreet
STEAKHOUSE
DUKE’S
Rustic restaurant featuring
beef & seafood dishes, plus
a sports tavern with an Irish
vibe.
363 Village Square Lane,
Castle Pines
303-814-2487 $$$
FOGO DE CHAO
Upscale Brasilian steakhouse
with all-you-can-eat meat
carved tableside. Guaraná is
a must, and try the Creme de
Papaya. 8419 Park Meadows
Center Dr., Lone Tree
303-481-4001 $$$ (EC)
PERRY’S
Chops, seafood, wine, &
cocktails served in an upscale
setting with a lounge & live
jazz. 8433 Park Meadows
Center Dr., Lone Tree
303-792-2571 $$$
14 SEARCHCASTLEROCK
TEXAS ROADHOUSE
Texas-themed steakhouse
with a great menu and
wonderful atmosphere.
11205 S. Parker Rd,
Parker
303-805-5848 $$
TRAPPER’S
CHOP HOUSE
Upscale hideaway local
favorite featuring their
signature Volcanic Hot Rock
sear-it-yourself experience.
19308 Cottonwood Dr.,
Parker
303-248-2132 $$$
UNIQUE
VISTAVINO MODERN
Quaint Tuscan grill made
fresh from local fare. Every
dish is a winner!
611 Wilcox St., Castle Rock
303-814-2487 $$
Our neighbors invited us to join them on a Saturday
night at Black+Haus Tavern. It was just me and my
older son this time, as our youngest wasn’t feeling
well. We had been wanting to try this spot for a
while, and I am so glad that we did!
The location is right on the corner of Mainstreet,
across from O’Brien Park. It was a busy Saturday
night, but luckily our wonderful neighbors had
grabbed a reservation in advance. The ambiance
was classic with a modern twist, which I found very
inviting. It felt like the perfect blend of upscale
dining and neighborhood comfort.
They have a decent selection of cocktails, wine,
and beer. I was happy with my chilled glass of
Chardonnay while my son opted for a lemonade.
For entrées, I chose the salmon, which arrived with
a beautifully crisp exterior, a delicate and flaky
interior, and was expertly seasoned.
My son has been on a steak and potatoes kick. I
wanted to encourage this new culinary exploration,
so we ordered him the ribeye! It was also perfectly
cooked, and we shared some with our neighbors
since the portion was generous. The steak was high
quality and melted in your mouth.
Throughout our meal, the service was friendly and
prompt, adding to our overall enjoyment. I made
note that they do have a kids' menu, so we can
go back again with our youngest! If you are looking
for modern eating in a clean, crisp atmosphere, I
recommend you give Black+Haus
Tavern a try. I am glad to have
found this culinary gem in our
community.
Denise Woods is a
freelance writer.
AUGUST 2025 15
THE "DOG ATE MY HOMEWORK"
EXCUSE WON'T HELP YOUR HOME
COMFORT SYSTEMS
but Parker Heating Air Plumbing & Electric will!
Back-to-school season comes with enough chaos —
lost assignments, missing shoes, forgotten lunches.
But when it comes to your home’s comfort? That’s
one thing you shouldn’t have to worry about!
WHY PARKER MAKES THE HONOR ROLL:
NATE
Certified
Techs
Upfront
pricing — no
tricks, no
surprises
Familyowned
&
trusted
since 2002
24/7
emergency
service
TAIL-WAGGING CONTENT
STARTS HERE
See what your favorite comfort
crew is up to
Parker Heating and Air Inc.
Parker Heating and Air
WE’RE HIRING!
We’re Hiring Reliable, Trustworthy
People! Apply Today on Our Website!
SCAN TO APPLY!
ParkerHeat.com • 720.340.7401
About Parker Heating & Air
Founded in 2002 and located in Parker, CO, Parker
Heating and Air is a leading HVAC company prioritizing
customer satisfaction. Our team comprises highly
skilled NATE-certified professionals dedicated to raising
our Southeast Denver Metro Area service standards.
As an Independent Trane Comfort Specialist Dealer,
we take pride in our reputation for excellence in every
project we complete.
At Parker Heating & Air, we specialize in designing,
engineering, and installing comprehensive comfort
systems tailored to the unique needs of both
homeowners and businesses. We take great pride in
our craftsmen’s quality, whose unwavering dedication
and integrity shine through on every job site.
We strive to ensure that your experience with us is
seamless and enjoyable. In the rare event that an error
occurs, you can rest assured that we will go above and
beyond to rectify it to your complete satisfaction.