UNWRAPPED
our staff picks from the year
asian inspired coffee shops and trends
noisette launches wine bar and small plates menu
ASIAN AVENUE - PRESIDENT’S NOTE
Annie Guo VanDan, President Asian Avenue magazine
As 2024 comes to an end, I find myself reflecting on the magazine’s growth and feeling immensely grateful. Being awarded the Press Forward grant has positioned us to expand our team with a new staff member in 2025. With this addition, we are excited to deepen our coverage of AANHPI communities and businesses, furthering our mission to make a meaningful impact.
In our final issue of the year, our Editorial Director, Mary Schultz, “unwraps” her top picks for people and businesses to watch in 2025. Their influence and contributions have been remarkable, and we can’t wait to see their continued success in the Year of the Snake!
A special congratulations to Courtney Ozaki, Creative Producer and Founder of the Japanese Arts Network, and Sara Moore, Executive Director of Colorado Dragon Boat, for receiving the Mayor’s Award for Excellence in Arts & Culture. These two outstanding leaders continue to create ripples of positive change throughout our community!
The Social Fabric Community Center will begin construction in January. This center represents more than just a building—it embodies a vision for connection, collaboration, and celebration. As we prepare for its grand opening next May, we are filled with hope and excitement for the memories and milestones
Not Too Sweet
IN THIS ISSUE
JENEVERRE SCHULTZ
Web
NGUYEN
JESSALYN LANGEVIN
on the cover
In this issue, we unwrap 2024 by taking a look at some of the notable people and organizations who have made big impacts this year, recognized by our Asian Avenue staff.
Asian Avenue magazine (ISSN 1932-1449) reserves all copyrights to this issue. No parts of this edition can be reproduced in any manner without written permission. The views expressed in articles are the authors’ and not necessarily those of Asian Avenue magazine
Looking to promote your business? Asian Avenue magazine offers businesses a costeffective way to reach consumers in the Denver/Boulder metro areas and beyond. For more information, call 303.937.6888 or e-mail us at hello@asianavemag.com for our media kit and ad rates. Send story ideas to hello@asianavemag.com.
Asian Avenue magazine is in association with the Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network.
COMMUNITY NEWS: Denver is My Home exhibit goes up at the airport Denver Mayor recognizes Courtney Ozaki and Colorado Dragon Boat for culture and arts award
STORY: AANHPI high school students form regionwide coalition 10 FEATURE: Muchiga barley tea grows in popularity for being caffeine-free
12 COVER: 2024 Unwrapped: A look at influential people and businesses
16 FEATURE: Coffee trends and Asianowned cafes pop up across Colorado 17 BOOK PREVIEWS:
Always Anjali by Sheetal Sheth
The Rainfall Market by You Yeong-Gwang
18 RESTAURANT PEEK: Noisette adds wine bar and menu, in addition to bakery
20 ON SCENE: Cloud Gate Dance proudly represents Taiwan in Denver
21 ON SCENE: Senator Hickenlooper holds roundtable with community leaders
ANNOUNCEMENT: Safety tips
DENVER IS MY HOME: Denver’s Historic Chinatown, Japantown, and Little Saigon
The next time you are traveling through the Denver International Airport, look for the ‘Denver is My Home’ exhibition with several display cases centering the history of Asian Americans in Denver.
‘Denver is My Home’ is an exploration of history to the present day of three specific Asian American communities that first came to settle in Denver; how they persevered, and how we continue to honor their contributions to Colorado.
Learn about how and why these communities came to thrive, the cultural heritage they celebrate, and the legacy and imprint they’ve left for future generations.
These stories accompanied by priceless objects, interviews, and photographic memories illuminate hidden narratives which include the history of the first Chinese and Japanese miners, railroad workers, and farmers in Colorado as well as immigrant stories which center the challenges of building community amongst ex-
treme adversity including the Chinese Exclusion Act, Vietnamese refugees fleeing violence in their home country, and re-settlement following World War II’s forced incarceration of Japanese Americans in Denver’s backyard at Amache and across the United States.
From December 2024 to June 2025, visitors will have the opportunity to see explore original artifacts of cultural memory, artistic tributes to these neighborhoods, and personal reflections from past residents and their kin.
The exhibit reveals the history of once thriving neighborhoods that are now scarcely present and mostly disappeared, and shares the ways we are still working to preserve and uplift that history today with the next generation of future ancestors. Denver Is My Home is made possible by the contributions of community members and is presented by: Japanese Arts Network, Colorado Asian Pacific United, the Far East Center and Truong An Gifts.
Mayor Mike Johnston honors artists at 2024 Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts & Culture
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston honored five individuals and organizations at the 2024 Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts & Culture luncheon. Awardees received custom artwork by Chris Wilburn of Access Gallery, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities.
“Denver’s art scene is as vibrant and alive as the city itself,” Johnston said in a statement. “The innovative, awe-inspiring work represented here honors our culture, challenges our perspectives, and reflects the range of creative brilliance in our city.”
Colorado Dragon Boat received the Impact Award, which was accepted by its Executive Director, Sara Moore. Since its inception in 2001, the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival at Sloan’s Lake Park has grown from a one-day celebration into the largest Dragon Boat Festival in the United States, attracting more than 200,000 attendees over two days.
Courtney Ozaki was recognized with the JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) Award.
A third-generation Japanese American, Ozaki founded the Japanese Arts Network (JA-NE) to support Japanese artists and elevate Japanese culture in the U.S. Through her work with JA-NE and other initiatives, she has created meaningful opportunities for community engagement, advancing equity and inclusion in the performing arts, the city said.
Ozaki (second from
and Moore (middle) received the Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts & Culture from Mayor Johnston.
Originally designed to celebrate Denver’s growing Asian community, the event now features nearly 50 competitive teams, over 30 food vendors, and more than 60 cultural performances, fostering connection and cultural pride.
Ozaki connected with her family roots and the outer Japanese community through her Taiko drumming. She later expanded on those connections and grew them for other artists with the network.
Other recipients included In Lak’ech Denver Arts (Youth Award); Museum for Black Girls (Innovation Award); and Museo de las Americas (Global Award). Honorees also received a $2,500 stipend each to support their ongoing contributions to Denver’s arts and culture.
The awards are presented in partnership between the mayor’s office, Denver Arts & Venues and the Denver Commission on Cultural Affairs.
Ozaki Family walk in the Five Points Parade.
left)
Social Fabric Asian American Community Center
Call for vendors and program ideas - Opening March 2025 in Centennial CACEN is offering several ways to plug in to the community space! Please reach out to us at cacendenver@gmail.com
Office Space Business Pop-Ups
Offices (175-205 sq feet) or shared desks available for monthly, weekly, or daily rent; leases includes mailing address, utilities, internet, and other benefits (and flexibility on terms)
AANHPI-owned businesses and artists and invited to pop-up in the community center. This includes coffee and tea at the cafe area, as well as kiosks and shelves selling art and products.
Memberships Programs / Events
Community members are welcome to the community center for free! AND memberships are available at $50 per month that include access to solo pods (for meetings/calls) and the conference room, discounts to local restaurants, and discounted rates for event space rentals.
We welcome your ideas for events at the community center. This could include wellness instruction (tai chi, yoga, dance, etc.), education (language lessons, art workshops, science, etc.) or areas of interest (KPOP, Pokemon, etc.).
AANHPI authors are invited to host book readings/signings in the community library.
It’s all about the Rocky Mountain AAPI Student Coalition
The Rocky Mountain AAPI student coalition (RMASC) is a community of Asian-American and Pacific Islander students dedicated to sharing AAPI stories and building a tight-knit community in the Rocky Mountain area.
Founded in Denver, in the heart of the Rockies, RMASC’s journey started small, attempting to bond AAPI students within the area. As the community has grown, RMASC has become a great student organization that shares important AAPI stories and news.
RMASC has also formed connections between AAPI students and youth through meetings as well as fun events like bake sales and movie nights. But RMASC is more than just a community of students, it’s an opportunity for
empowerment. AAPI students involved in RMASC are able to share their voices and create a loving community that shares the importance of culture and supports the ambitions of its members.
This is possible through competitions RMASC has held that encourage students to share their art and/or writing, providing AAPI youth with a space to share their art and receive praise.
RMASC also invites high schools in the Rocky Mountain area to start their own RMASC chapter. This allows AAPI students to create their own community locally and plan their own community-building events, and contribute to the larger RMASC community overall.
As RMASC expands, it strives to create space for the AAPI community
“As the underrepresentation of our cultures and histories in schools made it difficult to navigate our identities and find belonging, the need to create a safe space for AAPI students grew more evident. RMASC helped me achieve that goal all while building a community of lifelong friends, mentors, and fellow changemakers.”
-
Madison Lee, Founder of RMASC
By
within high schools and among AAPI youth.
To achieve this mission, this December, RMASC is organizing a movie night on Friday, December 20 in Aurora. AAPI youth between 6th and 12th grades are encouraged to join and connect with the RMASC community and enjoy food and beverages, while watching Crazy Rich Asians. RSVP for the event at: forms.gle/pZgfuC2MUB6pocmCA
RMASC’s journey is still in its early stages, and is actively looking for students who would be interested in contributing and becoming a part of the devoted community.
If you are interested in learning more or joining, follow RMASC on Instagram @rockymtn.asc.
Elyse Gallaway Elyse is a sophomore at Denver School of the Arts.
Left: Winning art piece from the 2024 RMASC competition
Right: Denver RMASC community at East High School
Photo Credit: Micah Sacks
MUCHIGA: The Refreshing, Caffeine-Free Brew Perfect for Your Mornings
By: Mary Jeneverre Schultz
Are you ready to embrace a caffeine-free 2025? Consider adding mugicha—a traditional barley tea and household staple in Japan, Korea, and China—to your daily routine.
Deliciously Different | Mugicha offers a rich, toasty flavor that rivals coffee but without the caffeine. Made from roasted barley rather than tea leaves, its nutty aroma and smooth, full-bodied taste make it a satisfying alternative for coffee lovers. Often compared to iced coffee but without the sugary, artificial add-ons, mugicha also boasts numerous health benefits. It’s said to boost the immune system, improve blood circulation and digestion, and even help prevent tooth decay.
Rooted in Tradition | The history of mugicha traces back to the Meiji era, when a small family-operated waterwheel began grinding barley for this beloved tea. “That spirit drove us to turn the wheel and start producing Mugicha. Our passion for barley has only grown over the years,” shares the marketing team at Senbird Tea. “Even when barley’s popularity declined, we remained committed to its potential—constantly innovating to make barley tea more accessible and enjoyable.”
The Art of Production | Crafting high-quality mugicha starts with locally grown, organic six-row barley. Using a unique far-infrared roasting method, the barley’s natural sweetness and aroma are enhanced, creating a smoky, full-bodied flavor profile. Small-scale production allows for rigorous quality control, ensuring that each batch maintains its authentic character.
Ingredients and Flavor Profile | Mugicha is made from 100% organic
barley sourced from domestic plantations, ensuring freshness and sustainability. Its robust, smoky flavor and nutty aroma are perfect for both hot brewing and refreshing cold brews. Naturally caffeine-free, mugicha is suitable for everyone—from children to the elderly—and ideal for any time of day.
Sustainability at the Core | Sustainability is a key focus for mugicha producers. Facilities powered by solar energy reduce reliance on non-renewable resources, while ISO 14001-certified roasting and packaging processes ensure eco-friendly practices. By sourcing barley locally, the company minimizes transportation emissions, contributing to a lower carbon footprint.
Connecting with a Health-Conscious Audience | Mugicha resonates with health-conscious consumers seeking natural, caffeine-free beverages. The tea’s immunity-boosting and digestion-enhancing properties make it especially appealing to families and individuals pursuing balanced lifestyles. Its cultural heritage and calming qualities also attract those who value tradition and wellness.
To reach its audience, the brand employs a combination of digital marketing strategies—such as social media, email campaigns, and a robust online store—and partnerships with specialty grocers and tea shops. This approach ensures consumers can find mugicha both online and in their local communities.
Looking Ahead | As demand for natural, caffeine-free beverages continues to grow, mugicha producers are exploring opportunities to expand globally. Plans include introducing new wellness-focused teas while remaining true to their core values of quality and sustainability.s
Mugicha’s rich history, unique flavor, and health benefits make it the perfect companion for your caffeine-free journey. Whether you enjoy it warm on a chilly morning or iced on a summer day, mugicha is a refreshing choice for mindful living in 2025 and beyond.
Mugicha Itsuki is an organic barley tea made from roasted barley kernels with a toasty aroma and full-bodied, smoky nutty taste with earthy notes. One tea bag brews a liter of tea.
2024 Unwrapped:
A Look at the People and Organizations of the Year
As we close out 2024, we’re unwrapping something special just for you! After listening to our readers, we decided to switch things up from our usual “Best of the Year” issue. Why? Because there’s no way to crown just one “best” in a community brimming with exceptional talent all year long. Instead, we’re shining a light on some of our staff’s favorite people, organizations, and businesses from 2024. The categories are as one-of-a-kind as the people we are spotlighting—so let’s dig in and celebrate the people who have made this year unforgettable!
List compiled by: Mary Jeneverre Schultz
AANHPI Nonprofit Organization
Colorado Asian Pacific United Preservation of AANHPI histories and cultures in Colorado @capu_2021
BIPOC Bookstore
The Shop at MATTER 2114 Market St, Denver, CO 80202 shopmatter.com
Cake Creator
Grace “Grey” Pak Duchess of Cameron @Duchessofcameron
Ceramic Artist
Elaine Kwan of Nimbus Makes @nimbusmakes
Childrens Book Illustrator Dow Phumiruk Ng Emerging Voices & Narrative Art Award Winner @dowphumiruk
Chocolate Artisanal Creator
Liane Pensack-Rinehart Owner, Colorado Cocoa Pod @coloradococoapod
Cocktail Holiday Drinks
Welton Room
2590 Welton St, Denver, CO 80205 @weltonroom
Community Events Organizer
Mimi Luong Ye Owner, Truong An Gifts and Event Organizer, Far East Center @mom_to_landon_noah
Community Leader
Binisha Shrestha
Colorado Nepalese Community Global Leaders Award 2024 winner @bineedarl
Cookie Designer
Anh Pham of Decadent Dough
Winner of Food Network’s Christmas Cookie Challenge @decadent_dough
Event Photographer/Videographer
Hoang Gia Phong Hao @simplyhao
Food Influencer
Aveeda Goodall @eatdrinketc
Healing Practitioner
Christina Ifurung of Kapwa Healing @christina.ifurung
Immersive Art Museum
Shiki Dreams - Prismajic 14500 W. Colfax Avenue Lakewood, CO 80401 @prismajic
Local DJ
DJ Lazy Eyez
Denver Hip Hop DJ @djlazyeyez
Musician
Cocoy Lim and Jade Oracle Band @composercocy @jadeoraclemusic
Online Cooking Classes
Chef Aric & Yukari Bianchi @unipersonalchefservices
Registered Dietitian
Anjali Praserton, MPH, RD
Racial equity, nutrition, food systems @antiracistrd
Private Chef
Chef Mark Dinh of Fish On Rice @fish.on.rice | fishonriceco.com
Soap Artisan Soap Charmers Hand crafted soap creators @soapcharmers
Wedding Planner
Dalina Ho of Islagant Co. Events @dalinaho | Islagantcoevents.com
Hotel Event Planner
Claire Moser of Clayton Hotel @claire_moser
Radio Broadcaster
Jennifer So
Traffic Reporter, iHeartMedia @jso129
Coffee Culture in Colorado Trends to Watch This Winter
When the cold sets in, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm cup of coffee or tea to soothe the soul.
Whether it’s a velvety ube latte, a rich pour-over, or a fragrant cup of chai, the Asian-owned and inspired coffee scene in metro Denver is full of unique spots to warm both your hands and your soul. This season, we’ve explored the evolving trends that are shaping the way we enjoy our favorite brews.
A Perfect Blend: Coffee Meets Beer
One trend making waves across the country is the fusion of coffee houses and breweries. From sunrise to sunset, these hybrid spaces cater to all tastes—coffee to kickstart the morning, and craft beer, wine, or cocktails to wind down in the evening. It’s a creative solution to the rising cost of leases in cities like Denver, allowing businesses to share spaces while offering customers the best of both worlds. This concept, already thriving in cities like Portland, Chicago, and New York, is gaining traction locally, proving that collaboration can spark innovation in the coffee scene.
Sustainability in Every Sip
Today’s coffee lovers are increasingly conscious of the environmental and ethical impact of their favorite drink. Many coffee shops are adopting eco-friendly practices such as composting coffee grounds, recycling waste, and investing in energy-efficient equipment.
Others are focusing on ethically sourced beans including from Indonesia and the Philippines, emphasizing fair-trade and organic options. These efforts not only elevate the coffee experience, but also align with customers’ growing interest in sustainability and responsible consumption.
By Mary Jeneverre Schultz
Ube Latte, Carbon Coffee in Aurora Opened in September!
Plant-Based Options and Bold New Flavors
Menus are evolving to cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs. Milk alternatives—like oat, almond, soy, and coconut—are now staples at most cafes, ensuring every customer can enjoy their latte just the way they like it. For the adventurous, some cafes are experimenting with exotic beans, rare single-origin roasts, and premium teas sourced from around the world. Meanwhile, a growing number of coffee drinkers are seeking caffeine-free alternatives, such as mushroom coffee, which offers a unique flavor profile and purported health benefits.
Tech and Marketing: The Future of Coffee
The post-COVID era has brought about a digital revolution in the coffee industry. From mobile ordering to cashless payment options like Venmo and Zelle, technology is making coffee shop visits more convenient than ever. But it doesn’t stop there—social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) have become essential tools for coffee shop owners. Stunning latte art, aesthetically pleasing interiors, and behind-the-scenes videos are just some of the ways cafes are connecting with customers and building brand loyalty.
Creating Immersive Experiences
Cafes today are about more than just coffee—they’re about creating a memorable experience. Many coffee shops are designing unique ambiances that reflect a particular theme or vibe, complete with curated music,
local art, and interactive elements. In Japan, cat cafes have become a cultural phenomenon, and this concept of blending relaxation with novelty could soon find its way to Denver. Locally, coffee shops are hosting engaging events such as barista-led workshops, tasting sessions, trivia nights, and live music performances. These spaces are transforming into hubs of creativity, education, and entertainment.
Community Connections: More Than a Coffee Shop
Perhaps one of the most heartwarming trends is the way coffee shops are connecting with their local communities. By partnering with other organizations, they’re creating vibrant events like Asian night markets and cultural festivals and supporting causes that matter. These collaborations turn coffee shops into community anchors, offering not just a cup of coffee but a sense of belonging.
Sourcing Coffee Beans:
Still a Haven for Work
Even in an increasingly digital world, coffee shops remain an ideal space for telecommuters, hybrid workers, and students. With free Wi-Fi, cozy seating, and plenty of caffeine, they’re the perfect spot to get work done, hold meetings, or simply relax with a book. The lively hum of conversation and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee create a unique energy that inspires creativity and connection.
Colorado’s coffee scene is evolving, as more Asian Americans dive in, but one thing remains constant: its ability to bring people together. Whether you’re slamming an espresso or indulging in a matcha latte, there’s something magical about these spaces.
Have a favorite coffee shop we missed? We’d love to hear from you! Share your recommendations, and your go-to spot could be featured in an upcoming issue of Asian Avenue Magazine.
Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii (sources from Hawaii) - badasscoffee.com Kopi Denver (sources from Indonesia) - kopidenver.com Venture Coffee Company (sources from the Philippines) - venturecoffeecompany.com
Vienna Coffee and Sando Sandwiches, Onto Coffee in Denver Opened in November!
Doppio Coffee in Denver (near Cheeseman Park)
Asian Owned / Inspired COFFEE
Carbon Coffee | @carboncoffee_co carboncoffeebar.com
12230 E. Colfax Ave, Unit 120 Aurora, CO 80011
This Thai-owned coffee shop recently opened, offering seasonal beverages of ube, matcha and chai.
Coffee Sarap | @coffeesarap coffeesarap.com
Mobile Coffee Cart & Events Filipino-inspired drinks crafted by two Filipinas, who will be opening a brick-andmortar location in Denver soon!
Coffee Story | @coffeestory_co coffeestoryco.com
2222 S. Havana St, Unit A1 Aurora, CO 80014
Located in the Havana Business District, this Korean-owned shop partners with Mochinut, offering a wide selection of mochi donuts and croffles.
Coffeegraph | @coffeegraph.colorado
3800 Julian St, Denver, CO 80211
Newly opened Indonesian-owned cafe that sources beans from Indonesia.
Creature Comforts Cafe @ourcreaturecomforts creaturecomforts.cafe
1647 Pearl St. #2, Boulder, CO 80302
Known for serving coffee, craft beer, and wine, this Boulder cafe includes hospitality in its prices (tip-free).
Dandy Lion Coffee
@dandy_lion_coffee | dandylion.coffee
5225 E. 38th Ave, Denver, CO 80207
Vietnamese-owned Dandy Lion doubles as a boutique plant shop.
Doppio Coffee | @doppiodenver doppiodenver.com
1245 E Colfax Ave, Unit 105 Denver, CO 80128
Moonrise Coffee Roasters
@moonrisecoffeeroasters moonrisecoffeeroasters.com
The contemporary cafe is Indonesian and woman-owned serving matcha lattes and Saigon Vietnamese coffee.
Gabee Coffee | @gabeecoffee gabeecoffee.com
3040 28th St, Boulder, CO 80301
The Korean-owned Boulder shop prides itself in roasting its high-end specialty coffee beans in-house.
Ju’s Coffee | @juscoffee juscoffee.com
17909 Cottonwood Dr, Parker, CO 80134
The neighborhood café showcases local Asian artisans, holds community events, and offers bubble tea and boba.
Kochi Café | @kochi.cafe kochicafe.com
4100 E. 8th Ave, Denver, CO 80220
While living in Thailand, the family discovered their love for tea; then back in Denver, Kochi was born.
Lilac Coffee | @lilaccoffeeexpress
4736 E. Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80220 lilaccoffee.com
You cannot miss the bright lavender A-frame coffee shop that offers a drivethru for on-the-go coffee.
Moonflower Coffee | @moonflowercoffee.co moonflowercoffee.co
4200 W. Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80204
Reopening this month after renovations, Moonflower offers ube lattes and ceremonial grade matcha from Japan.
5322 DTC Blvd, #200 Greenwood Village, CO 80111
The Maui-inspired coffee shop sells coffee beans from Maui, Indonesia, Guatemala, Ethiopia, and more.
Onto Coffee | @onto_coffee ontocoffee.com
Located in Mile High Food Club
2171 S Grape St, Denver, CO 80222
Order from Uber Eats or Door Dash, or pick up sando sandwiches and coffee from their ghost kitchen at Mile High Food Club (no seating).
Quince Coffee | @quincecoffeehouse quincecoffee.com
1447 Quince St, Denver, CO 80220
As an LGBTQ+, BIPOC, TaiwaneseAmerican veteran-owned coffee house in East Denver, Quince Coffee is a place for connection and creativity.
Sapor Coffee & Concepts | @saporcoffee saporcoffee.com
2795 Speer Blvd #17, Denver, CO 80211
From Hojicha Black Sesame Latte to Matcha Tonic, Thai-owned Sapor Coffee loves to explore new concept drinks.
Ti Café | @ti.cafe | ti.cafe
30 N. Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
The café offers Vietnamese drinks like flan cafe sua and eats like pate chaud, banh cam and custard buns.
If we missed any, please share with us @asianavemag.
Ju’s Coffee in Parker
Ti Café in Denver
learn to love your name in always anjali
Every name holds a special meaning. Anjali learns to love her unique name in picture book Always Anjali.
Always Anjali is a personal and timeless picture book about the experience of feeling othered and the journey toward embracing yourself.
Originally published in 2018. the book has contin ued to be a mainstay read in homes and classrooms. It is the first picture book series to feature a South Asian character.
That is, until she learns just how special her name truly is, and how great it is to be one of a kind! This empowering picture book encourages young readers to celebrate our differences and to find pride in what makes us unique.
ALWAYS ANJALI
By Sheetal Sheth
Alfred A.
Knopf
Books for Young Readers Ages 4–8
been featured on WNYC, The Washington Post, Book Riot, School Library Journal and more.
Anjali is excited to buy a license plate for her new bike. She looks and looks, but none of the plates say Anjali. Why does her name have to be so... different? When a classmate makes fun of her name, she decides to change it.
Through Always Anjali, Sheetal sets out to create a South Asian girl hero in a book that promotes tolerance, empathy and celebrates our differences in ways we don’t see often. With a positive message encouraging readers to appreciate what makes us special and honoring our different identities, ALWAYS ANJALI quickly became a favorite for every child’s library.
Serving as vital resource in talking to children about racism, the book has
Sheetal Sheth is an acclaimed actress, producer, author, and activist. She has starred in feature films and TV shows and is a favorite in the independent film world, having won five best actress awards on the film festival circuit. She is an outspoken advocate and has delivered keynotes at festivals and galas. She served in President Bill Clinton’s AmeriCorps and is on the advisory board of Equality Now. Learn more at sheetalsheth.com.
experience hope and magic in THE RAINFALL MARKET
Taking South Korea by storm, The Rainfall Market by You Yeong-Gwang, translated by Slin Jung is part comingof-age story and part escapist fantasy with all the whimsy of the Studio Ghabli film.
The Rainfall Market garnered a cult following in South Korea upon its initial publication, securing a spot at the top of the bestseller list after securing crowdfunding to be independently published. Yeong-Gwang wrote the story during breaks while delivering food for a living.
In the novel’s afterword, he writes: “What kind of book did I want to write? Something that left readers with a lingering sense of warmth even after they turned the last page. A light, fun read that will be packed with mean-
ing. A book that could heal wounded hearts and cast a ray of hope into the darkness. That would be perfect, I thought. And so this book was born.”
The novel follows Serin, a teenager whose life is plagued by misfortune until she receives a ticket to the fabled Rainfall Market. It is said that whoever brings their ticket to the abandoned house on the outskirts of Rainbow Town on the first day of the rainy season will be granted entrance to the Rainfall Market and be given the opportunity to trade in their misfortune for a completely new life.
Serin jumps at the chance to choose a new life for herself, and finds that her ticket, the sole golden ticket at the market, gives her the ability to collect as many futures as she wishes and
peek at what her potential new life would look like.
But as with all magic, there is a catch: Serin has one week to find the future she wants and leave the Rainfall Market before the end of the rainy season with her orb, or she will be doomed to vanish into the market forever.
Charming and heartfelt, featuring a lovable cat companion and strong themes of found family, The Rainfall Market is the perfect warm, escapist novel. Readers looking for endearing fantasy adventures with a happy ending will adore Yeong-Gwang’s story.
Restaurant and Wine Bar: Wed - Thur 5pm - 9pm Fri - Sat: 5pm - 9:30pm Monday - Tuesday: Closed
Visit the bakery Wednesday to Saturday from 8am to 3pm or Sunday from 8am to 2pm.
Brunch is available on Sunday from 10am to 1:30pm.
By: Annie Guo VanDan
Noisette: The Story of Tim and Lillian Lu’s French Culinary Dream N
oisette, which means hazelnut in French, stands out as a charming French restaurant and bakery in Denver’s Highlands neighborhood. And now, they have added a wine bar with evening menu items. Behind the scenes are Tim and Lillian Lu, a husband-and-wife duo whose shared culinary passion brought them from bustling New York kitchens to the neighborhood streets of Denver. Together, they’ve created a space that marries their professional training in French cuisine with a deep love for hospitality, creativity, and bread!
A Love Story Born in the Kitchen
Tim and Lillian first met in 2012 while working at Ai Fiori, a celebrated New York restaurant. Though they attended the same culinary school, their paths didn’t cross there—they were in separate programs. Instead, their relationship began as colleagues, spending time with fellow cooks after work. Gradually, they started exploring the city’s vibrant dining scene together, which cemented their bond.
After marrying in 2015 in Colorado Springs, where Lillian’s sister lived, the couple spent time traveling to culinary hubs like France, California, and Texas. These experiences helped shape their dream of opening a restaurant.
Tim, originally from Texas, and Lillian, who grew up in California, both found Denver to be the perfect place to plant their roots.
Noisette 3254 Navajo St #100 Denver, CO 80211 noisettedenver.com @noisettedenver
“Denver has a burgeoning food scene and more space to create what we wanted,” Tim explains. With family nearby and a love for Colorado’s outdoor activities like snowboarding, skiing, and hiking, the choice to move here was clear.”
Why French Cuisine?
Both Tim and Lillian are professionally trained in French cuisine, but their choice of focus was more than academic. For Tim, the path began in Texas, working in kitchens after college as a way to pay the bills. It was a job he fell in love with, ultimately deciding to pursue culinary school in New York.
“I grew up eating chicken fried steak, and I realized what I loved about it were the sauces,” Tim says. That love for complex, balanced sauces led him to French cooking.
While they’ve enjoyed experimenting with Asian dishes—both Tim and Lillian have roots in Taiwan and Korea, respectively—they chose to focus on French cuisine for their restaurant. “There’s a certain prestige and tradition in French cooking,” the couple says, though they still enjoy weaving in their heritage during pop-up dinners or special events, like their participation in the Mile High Asian Food Week.
Expanding with a Wine Bar
When Noisette first opened, it operat-
ed as a bakery by day and a dining room in the evening. Yet they noticed the space sat unused during certain hours, sparking an idea to add a wine bar and casual night menu.
“We wanted to offer an opportunity for guests to drop in for snacks or a light meal without committing to a full dinner,” Lillian shared. The menu includes options under $50, making it approachable for a quick date night or post-work gathering.
For Tim, this shift provided a creative outlet to experiment with more casual dishes. It also aligned with their desire to foster a welcoming, neighborhood vibe in the Highlands, which they love for its quiet, homey feel.
A Menu for the Seasons
croissants are a must-try during the fall season.
Rooted in Hospitality
Noisette’s menu is deeply influenced by seasonal and local ingredients, with much of their inspiration coming from local farms like Boulder’s Esoteric Culinary. “We see what’s available and create dishes around that,” Lillian explains. Constantly evolving, the menu allows the couple to innovate while staying true to the traditions of French cuisine.
Signature dishes include their charpizian dessert and an array of freshly baked pastries, with the bread and baguettes being personal favorites for Lillian. “I even crave them myself,” she laughs, adding that their apple
For Tim, cooking has always been about more than food. Growing up in a Taiwanese community, he learned the value of hospitality early on. His parents often hosted gatherings, where the focus was on pleasing guests and creating memorable experiences.
This ethos is at the heart of Noisette, where every detail—from the warm ambiance to the thoughtfully crafted dishes—is designed to make guests feel at home.
With the addition of the wine bar and evening menu, Noisette offers even more reasons to visit—and to keep coming back.
Lillian and Tim Lu, owners of Noisette
Photo Credit: Jeff Fierberg
Photo Credit: Hard Knoch PR
Cloud Gate Dance Theatre of Taiwan dazzles audiences with their first performance and visit in Denver
Acclaimed as “Asia’s leading contemporary dance theater” (The Times), Cloud Gate Theatre of Taiwan transforms ancient traditions such as meditation and martial arts onto the performance stage.
Last month, the dance troupe toured in Denver for the first time with their production of “13 Tongues.”
Tsung-Lung Cheng, Director of Cloud Gate, was born and raised in Wanhua, Taipei. He choreographed “13 Tongues” based on his personal life experiences and Taiwanese folk traditions.
Cloud Gate’s first performance in Denver was highly praised by audiences at the Newman Center for the Performing Arts, as they received standing ovations.
On Saturday, November 23, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Denver hosted a reception after their last performance.
TECO Director General Bill Huang thanked the Newman Center, Cloud Gate Dance Theatre and Ministry of Culture’s collective efforts, which made Cloud Gate’s first appearance and tour in Denver possible.
Learn more at cloudgate.org.tw.
Photo Credit: Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Denver
AAPI Leaders Discuss Community Challenges with U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper
On November 25, leaders from Colorado’s Asian American business community gathered for an AAPI Roundtable with U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper.
Organized by the Asian Chamber of Commerce and moderated by its President and CEO, Fran Campbell, the discussion centered on critical challenges the community is facing and how to plan ahead.
The roundtable brought attention to several pressing issues, including barriers for small businesses, access to capital, immigration concerns, and public safety. Attendees shared personal experiences and recommendations to the senator, fostering an engaging and impactful conversation.
Addressing Immigration and Economic Concerns
Immigration concerns were a significant focus of the discussion. Specifically for undocumented immigrants, there is a growing fear to go to work and face deportation due to the policies of the upcoming administration.
Minsoo Song, City of Aurora, highlighted the distrust in local government and the need for communities to unite in support of one another. “Federal policy is federal policy, but we must come together,” Song said, encouraging collective action and solidarity.
Senator Hickenlooper expressed empathy for these concerns and underscored the importance of main-
taining safety and trust, emphasizing the value of neighborhood watch groups. He also spoke about the need for accessible childcare, proposing a sliding scale model to help working families.
Mimi Luong, owner of Truong An Gifts in the Far East Center, and Charlene Thai, owner of Misaki Sushi, both raised public safety concerns, including an increase in shoplifting, burglaries and shootings near their businesses. Luong expressed frustration over the lack of consequences for shoplifting stating that, “criminals are not getting punished, but we need to protect small business owners.”
Small Business Challenges
Small business owners discussed obstacles they face in competing with online retailers, as well as staffing shortages. Participants also advocated for a streamlined and shared food permit application process across cities and counties to ease bureaucratic barriers for small businesses.
Previously a business owner himself, Senator Hickenlooper acknowledged the struggles that small businesses endured during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that many lacked the resources to access recovery programs and loans.
Fostering Optimism and Multiculturalism
The roundtable concluded with a
By Annie Guo VanDan
broader discussion on multiculturalism and the importance of unity in navigating challenges.
Senator Hickenlooper reflected on America’s history of immigration, stating, “We will be a stronger America if we could recognize we all have freedoms.” He emphasized that embracing change and cultural diversity is key to the nation’s success.
Recognizing the difficult years ahead, Hickenlooper urged community leaders to remain optimistic. “Prepare for the worst, but it will be a lot less difficult if we stick together,” he said. The AAPI Roundtable demonstrated the power of open dialogue and collaboration between community leaders and legislators.
Senator Hickenlooper and Fran Campbell, President and CEO of Asian Chamber of Commerce
Photo Credit: Mimi Luong
Photo Credit: Mimi Luong
Photo Credit: Sen. Hickenlooper’s Office
BURGLARY TREND TARGETING SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS
Several metro police departments have reported that a burglary trend is happening across Colorado targeting Asian Americans with multiple small business and home burglaries.
Colorado is being hit hard by the Asian-targeted burglaries with police in Adams County, Arapahoe County, Arvada, Aurora, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas County, Fort Collins, Jefferson County, Lakewood, Longmont, Mesa County, Parker, Thornton, Westminster and Windsor all reporting similar burglaries. Cash, jewelry, and high-end handbags are the primary targets.
These burglaries are not random - they are organized and planned. The individuals committing these crimes are known to follow small business owners home from work, then later, burglarize their homes while they are away.
In some cases, these suspects will place trackers on the victim’s vehicles or monitor victims homes with hidden surveillance cameras.
TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS AND HOME
• Do not store large amounts of cash in your home.
• Think about how you secure valuables in your home.
• If you find a suspicious device do not handle it. Please contact your city non-emergency dispatch.
• Keep vehicles locked.
• Check your surroundings, especially in parking lots as you go to or from your vehicle.
• Be mindful of anyone who may be following you home.
• Be aware of any unwanted, unsolicited deliveries to your home, especially food deliveries.
• Consider motion-sensor lighting around your home.
• Install security cameras and an alarm system around your home and/or business.
• Communicate with your neighbors if you see or hear something questionable.
• Report any suspicious activity as it relates to this crime trend by calling your name city non-emergency dispatch.
Please email the Asian Chamber of Commerce at info@acccolorado.com if you have any questions or comments.
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