Author: Robin Intemann
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Dining review: Bistro rocks creative fare
Union an American Bistro doesn’t quite roll off the tongue and I never heard anyone call it UAB, which sounds more like a bank than a restaurant; nonetheless, this Castle Rock eatery serves creative and satisfying food. Given the packed house, it’s apparent others agree. Dark décor and noisy ambiance aside, the focus is on…
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Dining review: Rookie errors at Colorado Springs-area taphouse
With a name like Rookies Taphouse and Eatery, I thought a sports bar was implied, but I should know not to make assumptions. Turns out there were other things I got wrong about this Fountain restaurant. We were warmly greeted upon entering and immediately seated; I mistook both as good signs. I give a lot…
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Dining review: No temper tantrums, only smiles at Angry Chicken in Colorado Springs
There’s nothing hostile about Angry Chicken & Juicy 88 Hotdog — just a little taste bud provocation, which proved to be just fine. Although dining in is certainly an option at this small, bright, order-at-the- counter restaurant in a South Nevada Avenue strip mall, we ordered online for carryout. Like most places offering an online…
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Empty Stocking Fund: Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center makes connections for military families
Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center became the Empty Stocking Fund’s veteran’s service organization of choice in 2020. Besides being an honor, says Robert “Bob” McLaughlin, executive director, “We now have 22 more friends to work together with to serve the community.” Mt. Carmel is all about connections, specifically when it comes to serving military veterans…
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Empty Stocking Fund: Partners in Housing works with families in crisis
Families might not be the face of homelessness, yet many experience some of the same issues as individuals pushing grocery carts filled with personal belongings down the street or standing on corners asking for help. “Families are not the folks we think of as being in homeless situations,” said Mary Stegner, executive director of Partners…
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Dining review: Monument’s Ramen Chops Noodle Bar encourages slurping
As a child, I was admonished for slurping my food. These days, I slurp in good company — and encourage others to do the same — especially since it’s expected in ramen shops of any worth. And Ramen Chops Noodle Bar in Monument is no exception. DETAILS Ramen Chops Noodle Bar Description: Noodle bowls and…
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Empty Stocking Fund: NAMI assisting those facing mental health issues
ESF Logo (copy) Support groups, educational classes and a wealth of resources are a major part of what NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health) offers individuals and families facing mental health conditions. Yet, there’s one more thing that is just as important to consider. “We’re here,” said Kelly Spieker, communications coordinator. “We’ve learned that sometimes…
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Dining review: Monument ramen shop encourages slurping
As a child, I was admonished for slurping my food. These days, I slurp in good company — and encourage others to do the same — especially since it’s expected in ramen shops of any worth. And Ramen Chops Noodle Bar in Monument is no exception. In the three years since opening, this small venue…
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Dining review: Punch Bowl Social is about fun and food
When a restaurant isn’t just a place to eat, concern for substandard food and service is legit. Surprisingly, even though there’s significantly more than chow and libations at Denver’s Punch Bowl Social, there’s not much to worry about. Described on its website as “industrial chic,” it’s a large, noisy and busy establishment catering to a…
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Empty Stocking Fund: Peak Vista Community Health Centers
ESF Logo (copy) Peak Vista Community Health Centers has evolved from a single clinic in Colorado Springs open two nights a week to operating 23 clinics throughout the Pikes Peak region reaching to the Kansas border. While the expansion since its inception in 1971 is impressive, what Lisa James, senior director of philanthropy, said she…