25.08.2025 Views

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.

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

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.

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!