Arvada, CO October 2023

New Construction on Lookout Mountain

545 Strada Rossa is a stunning mid century modern-inspired home located in the gated Strada Rossa Estates. This exquisite property offers 5 bedrooms, 6.5 bathrooms, and a range of luxurious features that make it a true masterpiece. The home is intentionally designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The mixed-materials palette creates a harmonious connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing residents to enjoy breathtaking views from every angle. The property provides exceptional serenity while also offering easy access to a wide range of outdoor activities, including world-class skiing and hiking. Denver amenities are also within reach, offering the best of both worlds. It’s an ideal retreat for those who appreciate both modern elegance and outdoor adventures.

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My Fellow Foodies

Welcome to the October issue. This edition is a celebration of local culinary wonders and tantalizing treats, perfectly suited to the season.

In this food-focused issue, we embark on a delectable journey to explore the heart and soul of Arvada’s culinary landscape. Get ready to discover some of the most charming bakeries our home has to offer, as we take you behind-the-scenes of three local gems. From oven-fresh bread to mesmerizing macaroons, prepare to savor the magic that lies within these neighborhood establishments.

Our culinary adventure doesn’t stop there, discover the delightful medley of mouthwatering dishes at The Butchery and tickle your taste buds at The Garden Grille located at the Hilton Garden Inn.

As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope you feel inspired to explore the flavors that make Arvada a true culinary gem. This month, we encourage you to savor every moment and let the joy of food bring you closer to the heart of our beloved city.

Happy Reading and Bon Appetit!

October 2023

PUBLISHER

Cody Sturma | cody.sturma@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Valerie Bianculli | valerie.bianculli@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITER

Lila Ruppe | lila.ruppe@du.edu

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Rachel Audette | rachel@theturquoisecamera.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rebecca Sloan Photography, Makayla Mast

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

"I would heartily recommend Stonebridge for residential construction projects!

We engaged Stonebridge builders in 2021 for a major home renovation in Boulder, CO after consulting with several different construction companies. We liked that the CEO, Chris Tolar, came out to our home on more than one occasion and explained, together with his appointed construction manager, Nick Bojanic, how the project would run.

From the bidding process, to completion, Stonebridge were very transparent as to pricing and stuck to the agreed budgets. Construction work was managed deftly and to a high standard. Stonebridge also managed to get us to a move in date that worked for our family’s needs."

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @ArvadaLifestyleMagazine

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Pure Dermal Congratulates Lauren on Graduating from Esthetician School

Pure Dermal Spa extends a heartfelt congratulations to Lauren on her recent graduation from Esthetician School. With her exceptional talents, she effortlessly transforms facials into moments of utmost relaxation. Moreover, her skillful hands in massage therapy have earned her glowing praises. At Pure Dermal Spa, clients are treated to an indulgent experience, thanks to great estheticians like Lauren. Congratulations!

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Freedom Street Social Celebrates 1 Year Anniversary

Happy Birthday to Freedom Street Social who celebrated their 1 year anniversary with FREEDOM FEST July 21-22. There were carnival games, yummy snacks, a mechanical bull, face painting, live bands, glitter tattoos and more!

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Josh

Dutton named a 2023 Denver Five Star Mortgage Professional

Congrats to Josh Dutton for being named a 2023 Denver Five Star Mortgage Professional! Five Star Professional recognizes outstanding professionals based on proprietary, independent research. This year Josh Dutton has been named an award winner.

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Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Arvada

SWEET SPOT

Diving into Indulgence with La Patisserie’s Delectable Desserts

ARTICLE BY VALERIE BIANCULLI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RACHEL AUDETTE, THE TURQUOISE CAMERA

There lies a little corner of culinary heaven right here in Arvada known as La Patisserie Francaise. Nestled in a charming storefront, inside you will find a testament to the art of crafting exceptional pastries and desserts along with a tantalizing sugary sweet smell of baked goods. This month, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Sadie Russo, the passionate owner and creative mind behind La Patisserie to share some insight into her delightful world of sweet treats.

Twelve years ago, Sadie Russo embarked on a journey that would make her a beloved figure in the Arvada community. She purchased La Patisserie Francaise, driven by her deep love for baking and a vision to share her passion with others. La Patisserie Francaise has been serving the community for 32 years, however, from the moment she took over, her commitment to quality, authenticity, and creativity has been the hallmark of La Patisserie.

“Every recipe here starts with the basics: butter, sugar, flour, and salt.” Sadie explains, emphasizing the importance of using high-quality ingredients made from scratch in-house. It is a European-style, family owned and operated bakery and every item on the menu is crafted with the finest ingredients and baked by hand.

La Patisserie Francaise is best known for their legendary sugar cookies. If you are an Arvada local, chances are you’ve already savored one or at least heard whispers about these infamous, delectable cookies. These highly addictive treats are a cross

between a sugar and shortbread cookie and they are topped with colored sugars or dipped in chocolate. Check out their themed cookies which change every month.

If cookies aren’t your thing, you are sure to be impressed by the vibrant macaron display. These delicate, almond meringue cookies have become a beloved favorite for many regulars with Lavender reigning supreme as the bakery’s most popular flavor. It has a distinct taste and the subtle floral notes of lavender complement the sweet meringue and rich ganache filling to create a memorable flavor-filled experience.

In addition to this, La Patisserie is also a treasure trove for traditional pastries such as their Napoleon. This classic pastry, known for its layers of flaky pastry and luscious custard cream filling, has even won praise from European visitors that say it is the closest they have tasted to the Napoleons in their home countries. Experience the flavors of a genuine French patisserie right here in your hometown by giving these a go!

Another favorite is the beautiful swans that have a chocolate custard-cream base and a whipped cream top that are delicately sprinkled with powdered sugar. The popularity of items such as this speaks to Sadie’s dedication to preserving the authenticity of traditional recipes while infusing them with her unique touch.

La Patisserie’s magic extends beyond its regular menu items. One of the standout features of La Patisserie is their ability to completely customize sweet treats for your special event. The bakery is a hub for customization. Whether it’s a wedding, baby shower, business event or any other special occasion, allow Sadie and her team to create something memorable that will instantly elevate your celebration. Bring dreams to life in the form of these delectable desserts. Print the initials of a loved one on some macarons for a birthday celebration, give your guests a memorable party favor by creating customized cookies with some of your favorite images printed on them, the list goes on and on. The bakery has become a go-to destination for those seeking delicious and uniquely tailored desserts to make their events truly memorable. La Patisserie is not only a local favorite, it’s a gathering place where friends and family come together to celebrate special moments. From birthdays to weddings to office gatherings, the bakery has created custom cakes and desserts that have become the centerpiece of countless occasions.

Experience this neighborhood gem for yourself by stopping in to visit, exploring their menu at lapatbakery.com or visiting their social on Instagram @la.patisserie. francaise or on Facebook @lapatbakery. Bon Appetit!

“EVERY RECIPE HERE STARTS WITH THE BASICS: BUTTER, SUGAR, FLOUR, AND SALT,” SADIE EXPLAINS, EMPHASIZING THE IMPORTANCE OF USING HIGH-QUALITY INGREDIENTS MADE FROM SCRATCH IN-HOUSE.

Beyond the Oven

The smell of fresh-baked bread mingles with the spirit of community at Great Harvest Bakery Café. This delectable franchise is not only a culinary gem, but a testament to family ties and unwavering commitment to the Arvada community. Meet Micki Nelson and Aimee Charlton, the mother-daughter duo behind Great Harvest Bakery Cafe

Aimee Charlton, who purchased the business four years ago didn’t just become a business owner, but a steward for her community. “I roped my mom, Micki Nelson, into the business,” Aimee laughs. “She used to bring me to Great Harvest when I was a kid, so when the opportunity to buy the bakery came up, it emotionally clicked. I had nice memories of Great Harvest, and I wanted to share that with the community.”

When COVID hit, Aimee reimagined the bakery’s role and figured out a new business model by opening as a grocery store, fulfilling online orders, and delivering necessities to those in need. In fact, their ability to quickly shift gears and pivot their business during this time earned them the COVID Hero Award from the franchise.

The bakery also initiated the Community Shelf program during this time. “So many people were losing their jobs,” Aimee explains. “We wanted to help in any way we could.” The program allows anyone struggling to walk in, ask for a community shelf loaf and walk out with a fresh loaf of bread, free of charge. The community generously donates to this cause and any extra funds go to support local non-profits such as Hope House and the Salvation Army.

“Give Generously” is not just a phrase at Great Harvest, it’s a mission and one that is taken very seriously. This can be attributed to Aimee and Micki’s background in nonprofit work which just so happens to align perfectly with the vision of the company.

Great Harvest is best known for their Honey Whole Wheat Bread. The bakery takes pride in its café business, offering an array of mouthwatering sandwiches and salads that keep customers coming back for more. Catering has also become a significant focus and adds a touch of homemade goodness to every occasion.

Make sure to stop by Great Harvest on October 28th, for their annual Halloween Trail of Treats event where kids can come in costume and make their own cookies and trail mix as well as enjoy a variety of crafts!

DOUGH, DEDICATION & DEUTSCHLAND DELIGHTS

Sitting Down with Rheinlander Bakery

This month we are taking you behind the scenes of a beloved establishment that has been captivating taste buds and warming the hearts of our community for years – Rheinlander Bakery. Owned by Loren and Luke Naftz, Rheinlander Bakery is where tradition and innovation collide in a symphony of traditional, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan and sugar-free delights.

The story behind Rheinlander Bakery is just as heartwarming as its freshly baked treats. Loren Naftz had worked as Rheinlander’s production manager for nearly 9 years before Ed and Maro Dimmer, the owners at the time, decided to retire. Her journey began in 2021 when she and her husband acquired the bakery and since then the Naftz family has continued a legacy as well as introduced some innovative additions to their menu to accommodate a wide range of customers. Family recipes and new creations intertwine creating an abundance of tasty treats to tantalize your taste buds.

One of the defining features of Rheinlander Bakery is its commitment to offering so many different options on their menu. In a world where dietary restrictions can sometimes limit indulgence, Loren and Luke have made it their mission to ensure that everyone can enjoy the magic of freshly baked pastries, regardless of their dietary needs. Whether you are gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, sugar-free or simply looking for a tasty treat without any restriction, Rheinlander has a little something for everyone.

Their gluten-free menu is nothing short of impressive and it comes as no shock since they began production on this menu back in 2002 when Maro was diagnosed with Celiac disease. From bread to pastries, and even wedding cakes, Rheinlander Bakery has mastered the art of gluten-free baking. Choose from items such as gluten-free eclairs, cupcakes, biscotti, sticky buns and more. Their techniques are tried and true and made with wholesome ingredients and precision. In fact, these menu additions actually rival many of their traditional offerings.

The treats at Rheinlander Bakery extend far beyond the basics. Delicate, flaky pastries filled with fruit compote or rich chocolate ganache grace the display case, proving that dietary restrictions shouldn't mean compromising taste or quality. Their decadent German chocolate cake, with layers of chocolate sponge cake and coconut pecan icing is a showstopper and keeps patrons coming back for more.

In addition to this, Rheinlander Bakery remains deeply committed to preserving the essence of German baking and staying true to the roots of the business which opened its doors in 1963. The aroma of buttery strudels and sugar cookies transports customers directly to the heart of Germany. For Fall, make sure to check out their festive Halloween treats such as skeleton sugar cookies and flavorful coffee brews. Inside, the bakery offers a cozy ambiance, adorned with wooden accents and vintage décor.

Rheinlander Bakery has become a cherished part of the Arvada community, where locals gather to celebrate milestones, indulge in sweet cravings, and enjoy the warmth of family traditions. In addition to this, they are no stranger to showing love and appreciation for their local community. This past September, a special menu of cupcakes was created to benefit the Arvada Community Table for their Feeding the Future program. The mission of this program is to provide meals for kids and teens in the community. Loren and Luke’s dedication to their craft, their community, and their innovative menu make Rheinlander a destination worth savoring. Whether you have a dietary restriction or are simply in search of delicious baked goods, Rheinlander promises an experience that will leave your taste buds singing with delight.

Whether you are gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, sugar-free or simply looking for a tasty treat without any restriction, Rheinlander has a little something for everyone.

Monday - Spaghetti and Meatballs - $15

Tuesday - Endless Taco Bar - $14

Wednesday - Steak French Dip - $16

Thursday - Grilled Chicken & Quinoa - $15

Friday - Fish Taco - $15

Saturday - Steak Frites - $17

Sunday - Meatball Sandwich - $15

The Butchery

WHERE CULINARY ARTISTRY MEETS

COZY CHARM

The Butchery elevates the quintessential steakhouse to something fresh and modern, while maintaining a cozy farmhouse feel. High-quality steak cuts are served with a variety of flavored butters, from caramelized shallot to chili lime, and there is a wine or cocktail to pair with every flavor profile at this award-winning establishment.

The first item you might notice on their menu is the tallow candle & cheese board, spearheading the appetizers section. The lit rendered beef fat candle steadily melts into garlic and parsley sea salt, allowing you to dip your sourdough baguette or lavash in the soft, melty bits. Fig preserves, genoa salami and prosciutto, and cornichons complete the dish. It shows the restaurant’s commitment to the classics, quality meat, bread, and cheese, while incorporating a creative twist.

Chef Jose Escobar Herrera can be thanked for the creativity and freshness throughout the menu. Every sauce, dressing, and side is house made. He is in his fifth year with the restaurant and offers daily specials that Karen Kristopeit-Parker, the general manager, appropriately describes as “amazing.”

The Butchery’s local favorites showcase some of their top steak-centric dishes. The filet trio features three 4-ounce filet medallions served with Black River Blue Cheese, chimichurri sauce, and a garlicky mushroom duxelle. Two other steak dishes top their charts: the ranchero bone-in ribeye rubbed with ancho chile and bison with chimichurri. They highlight their high-quality meats with bright, flavorful additions. Additional savory house

made steak toppings include béarnaise sauce (a relative of hollandaise), brandy peppercorn demi sauce, and port wine demi reduction.

Great dishes begin with great ingredients. The establishment takes pride in utilizing local ingredients in their meals. The aforementioned bison comes from Rock River Farms, a Colorado-based bison farm. Beef, pork, and lamb are all sourced from the Denver-based business, Lombardi Brothers Meats. Seattle Fish, open for over 100 years and also based in Denver, provides their seafood. Even one of their cocktails, the Bees Knees, features honey from right here in Arvada. While eating at the Butchery, you can know exactly where the ingredients are coming from while appreciating their dedication to supporting local businesses. Additionally, they only serve Certified Angus Beef brand, ensuring that every dish “meats” their high standards.

Every entree comes with your choice of tasty side. Steamed asparagus and Brussels sprouts can provide freshness, while white cheddar mashers and au gratin potatoes can offer additional richness. Even lobster mac & cheese can be added to any entree.

The drink menu offers just as much flavor and creativity as the food. One notable cocktail is the smoked bourbon old fashioned, consisting of Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon, bitters, simple syrup, and orange oil. Once again, this drink shows how well the Butchery can take a classic and make it fresh. It’s smoked with cherry wood, making it a nuanced take on the traditional old fashioned. While describing the drink, Karen says, “We bring the campfire to the table.” If you are looking for a more fruity sip, check out the pomegranate tini. It’s a flavorful blend of Three Olives Citrus Vodka, Pama Pomegranate liqueur, simple syrup, lime, and pomegranate juice.

After-dinner drinks can provide the perfect cap to a rich meal. They offer an array of dessert wines and cordials, including the connoisseur-approved Hennessey Paradis, and a few cocktails. The first of

these is the classic espresso martini crafted with Sweet Bloom Seasonal Espresso, Van Gogh Vanilla Vodka, and Van Gogh Double Espresso Liqueur. Cozy, energetic, and friendly sum up the Butchery’s inviting atmosphere. Karen pours her 43 years of restaurant experience into creating the best possible experience for every guest who walks into their doors. She says, “I have the hospitality gene! I love taking care of guests. They are in my home

“Great dishes begin with great ingredients. The establishment takes pride in utilizing local ingredients in their meals.”

for dinner, happy hour or drinks, and I strive to make the experience a memorable one!”

The impressive food, inventive drinks, and enjoyable atmosphere make the restaurant’s long history of awards come as no surprise. It has won Best Steakhouse (2022, 2023), Best Bartender (2022, 2023), Best Bar (2022, 2023), Best Fine Dining (2023), and more. Just this year, Colorado Community Media voted the Butchery Best of the Best

for Steakhouse, Bar, and Happy Hour, along with Best Bartender for their skilled bartender Vernon Johnson. Creativity and passion for their craft are evident in every aspect of the Butchery. Even their gift certificates are uniquely shaped like meat cleavers. Get to know them even better by visiting them in Arvada, where they have been serving the community since 2015, and explore their menu at TheButcheryArvada.com.

THE HILTON ARVADA GARDEN GRILLE AND BAR

A CULINARY LOCAL GEM

The best restaurants and bars are often hidden gems. Luckily for our local readers, Arvada has its very own hidden gem located inside the Hilton Garden Inn. It’s called the Garden Grille and Bar, and it impresses with an array of diverse dishes and expertly-crafted cocktails.

The contemporary casual atmosphere makes this restaurant the perfect spot to grab drinks, sit down for dinner, or even take the family out. First opened in 2017, the Garden Grille and Bar is in a unique position being located inside a

hotel. It’s often not as packed as other restaurants in Olde Town, lending to its laid-back ambiance. Director of Sales, Joshua Langley says that the restaurant’s excellent quality and all-too-often overlooked location is what truly makes the restaurant a “hidden gem.”

“Our Food & Beverage Director, Ky Welch, is an award winning bartender with many years of bartending under his belt,” Joshua notes. The Garden Grille and Bar features a full-service bar with a rotating specialty cocktail menu. One of the establishment’s highlights is their team of seasoned bartenders. Their main bartender, Nichole, even has a reputation for her work in the local area. She has built a following in her five years with the bar.

If you’re looking to try something new, try ordering their daily drink special. Rotating specials keeps the menu fresh and exciting. Every day, they have happy hour from 4-6 PM. Come in to sip on their house drinks, drafts, and house wines, all for $5 each. It’s a great time to relax and unwind without breaking the bank.

Beyond the bar, the Garden Grille features a variety of tasty dishes created by their talented culinary team, including Chef Juan Campos. In the morning, they even offer a

breakfast menu featuring dishes like Breakfast Burritos with homemade Green Chili, a Colorado classic. Their dinner menu ranges from Mexican and Asian inspired to American classics. Some of Arvada’s favorites include the St. Louis BBQ Ribs, served with housemade mac ‘n cheese, and the Buffalo Fajitas. Are you vegetarian or gluten-free? If so, the Garden Grille has you covered! Check out the Roasted Garlic Hummus with grilled pita and seasonal crudité as a vegetarian appetizer. The Southwest and Garden salads are meat-free as well. For dessert, the Flourless Chocolate Torte is completely gluten-free. Taco Tuesday is a tradition the Garden Grille picked up nearly two years ago, and it has become a local hit. Every Tuesday, it’s only $14 to dive into an endless taco bar, including a choice of three proteins, beans, and rice. Pair your personalized tacos with a $5 margarita, a classic and delicious combination. The margaritas are a particular favorite in the area.

Next time you’re looking for great food, drinks, and atmosphere, keep the Garden Grille and Bar in mind. Keep up with their updates and menu specials on Facebook at @ArvadaHGI, and check them out in person on 5455 Olde Wadsworth Boulevard in Arvada.

realty report

A sample of recently sold properties in Arvada.

Information obtained through RE Colorado Multiple Listing Service. List and sold price reflect one selected home within the respective subdivision.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

OCTOBER 14TH

The Festival of Scarecrows

OLDE TOWN SQUARE | 10:00 AM

The Arvada Historical Society presents the 27th annual Festival of Scarecrows presented by Historic Olde Town Arvada and Ralston House as a fundraiser for Ralston House. This event features a scarecrow contest, hay rides, a kids parade, DJ, corn maze, chili cookoff, and more! For more information, you can visit ralstonhouse.org

OCTOBER 14TH & 15TH

Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair

OLDE TOWN ARVADA, WITHIN OLDE TOWN SQUARE, ALONG OLD WADS AND GRANDVIEW. USE 5726 OLDE WADSWORTH BLVD FOR DIRECTIONAL SUPPORT | 10AM - 5PM | PREVIEW

NIGHT ON OCTOBER13TH, 5PM -10PM

Enjoy a weekend of shopping featuring over 100 hand-selected artisans. Shoppers can expect to find trendsetting indie goods including original fashion and jewelry design, paper goods, innovative home decor and housewares, art, photography, food, and much more!

OCTOBER 23RD

Patient Appreciation Day

AT NEW DAWN CHIROPRACTIC & ACUPUNCTURE ARVADA, CO | ALL DAY

Patient Appreciation Day! Join New Dawn Chiropractic & Acupuncture for food, fun, community and prizes as they celebrate their patient community! 8am-noon & 2:30-5:30pm

OCTOBER 28TH

Trail of Treats at Great Harvest

GREAT HARVEST - 7745 WADSWORTH BLVD IN ARVADA | ALL DAY

Great Harvest is getting festive on October 28th! Stop by for their annual Halloween Trail of Treats event where kids can come in costume and make their own cookies and trail mix and enjoy a variety of crafts!

OCTOBER 29TH

The Colorado Bridal Show

THE ESTABLISHMENT AT BRADBURN VILLAGE - 11885 BRADBURN BOULEVARD IN WESTMINSTER | 11:00 AM

If you are a bride-to-be, stop by the Colorado Bridal Show taking place at the Establishment at Bradburn Village. Plan your wedding in one day by seeing a large assortment of local vendors and wedding professionals with exclusive pricing, samples and giveaways!

NOVEMBER 17THJANUARY 1ST

ICE! 2023 at Gaylord Rockies

GAYLORD ROCKIES RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER 6700 NORTH GAYLORD ROCKIES

BOULEVARD IN AURORA | 12:00 AM

ICE!, the annual holiday tradition at Gaylord Hotels, returns this year using more than two million pounds - or 1,000 tons - of ice. The amusing Warner Bros. holiday classic, ‘A Christmas Story™' will be brought to life in ice sculpture formed by a team of 40 world-class ice artisans from Harbin, China.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Arvada

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