There is always something happening in our neighborhood. Businesses opening, others changing direction, owners taking risks, and residents debating what they want their community to become. That constant movement is part of what makes Wheat Ridge and the surrounding area interesting. Sometimes the news is exciting, sometimes disappointing, and often it is a little bit of both.
Sadly, we say goodbye to Eugene and his beloved establishment, Colorado Plus. For many residents, Colorado Plus was much more than a restaurant or bar. During COVID, when so many people felt isolated and disconnected, it became a gathering place and a lifeline for the community. Eugene and his team created an atmosphere that welcomed everyone, and people responded immediately. Loyal customers came not only from Wheat Ridge but from surrounding communities as well.
Colorado Plus hit the ground running and quickly became one of those places people recommended to friends without hesitation. Whether you were stopping in for a casual lunch, meeting neighbors for drinks, or simply looking for a familiar face during uncertain times, it delivered exactly what communities need from local establishments—connection.
Running a restaurant is not easy. Running one through a pandemic is almost impossible. Eugene handled it with professionalism, creativity, and a genuine appreciation for the people who supported him. We wish him nothing but the best as he finally takes what is certainly a long overdue and well-earned vacation. Of course, those who know restaurant owners know the “culinary itch” rarely stays away forever. Something tells me we have not seen the last of Eugene. Hopefully somewhere down the road he opens another concept for all of us to enjoy. Until then, thank you for being such a great community host when we needed it most.
On a more optimistic note, rumor has it—and Fin’s recent social media post seems to confirm—that Gastown on 29th is finally back on track after securing funding. For those who have been watching this project closely, it has been a long journey. The highly anticipated rooftop concept at 29th and Chase has faced delays, neighborhood concerns, and plenty of speculation.
Fin took over what had long been an old garage property and envisioned something completely different for the area. Initially, the concept faced resistance. Some nearby residents fought the liquor license application and worried about how the project would affect the neighborhood. But instead of digging in and creating division, Fin took the time to knock on doors, meet neighbors face-to-face, and listen to concerns directly.
That effort appears to have paid off. Over time, a much stronger relationship developed between the project and the surrounding community. That matters. Neighborhood businesses survive when owners understand they are not just opening inside a building—they are becoming part of the fabric of the community around them.
From everything we have seen so far, Gastown looks impressive. The rooftop deck alone could become one of the more unique gathering spots in the area, with views that are hard to beat. At this point, an opening date hovering around Labor Day weekend is Fin’s best guess however, updates seem limited, and we may simply have to wait patiently until opening night arrives. Best wishes from all of us, Fin. We are rooting for your success.
In the coming months, we will also be revisiting and interviewing the owners of Rolling Smoke BBQ and Little Brazil. Both businesses have excellent reputations, loyal customers, and quality food, yet neither seems to be performing at the level many expected.
Rolling Smoke, in particular, raises interesting questions. It took nearly two years for them to reopen after purchasing the former Right Coast Pizza location. That corner was once one of the hottest intersections in Wheat Ridge—constantly active with meetups, community groups, commissions, PTAs, and local organizations gathering there. Today, despite amazing barbecue and a strong reputation, the location often appears quiet.
And this is not a case of bad food or inexperienced ownership. Quite the opposite. Rolling Smoke proved during Clancy’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration that people love what they offer. So why is the daily turnout still struggling? Is it visibility? Timing? Traffic patterns? Consumer habits? We plan to ask those questions directly.
The same can be said for Little Brazil. Once customers walk through the doors, they usually leave impressed. The food is excellent, the atmosphere welcoming, and the staff consistently friendly. Yet for some reason, the crowds have not fully materialized. Why? That conversation is worth having as well.
Every once in a while, I receive emails or phone calls asking why this column does not include the addresses for every restaurant or business mentioned. The answer is simple: this column is not meant to function as a directory. It is meant to spark curiosity. The goal is for readers to hear about a place, look it up themselves, and go experience it firsthand.
And many of you do exactly that. People regularly text or call me afterward to share their opinions and experiences. Last month’s pizza review generated a huge response, with many readers trying Jet’s Pizza for the very first time.
Now the question becomes: which pizza place was your favorite?
