Search South Aurora March 2023

AURORA

Downtown Glow-Up

Tony DeSimone and Confluence Companies are changing the face of Douglas County for the better.

With the My Mainstreet project finally under contract, the town is poised to see a transformation of downtown. Enter Tony DeSimone. The architect of the Castle Rock downtown reformation, Tony and his team have plans to bring new life to Mainstreet. Although the land is much larger than what Confluence redeveloped in Castle Rock, DeSimone said their approach to the Parker project has been similar.

DeSimone: We’ve found success developing mixeduse projects, where we bring in a residential component and the residential component helps subsidize the restaurant space in the retail to make it affordable to attract the right retail and restaurateurs. The new buildings will help keep more people coming to

downtown and spending time there while enhancing the west side of Mainstreet. It’s their more historic section of downtown Parker, but as you head to the east, there’s just a lot of vacant land. So we see a lot of opportunity to help … create walkability.

Downtown Parker has some really great parts, but it's missing more activity. It's missing the places for people to work. From an entertainment / restauant perspective there is a need. There are some good municipal projects, but I think what's missing is how you fill in between those. One night it was 6:30 or 7:00 when I was driving Mainstreet before a town council meeting. I literally only saw one person walking on Mainstreet that evening. It was a nice night.

PARCEL A

Pine Curve

• 25,000 - 34,500 sf commercial

• 154 residential units

• Public park - at least 1.73 acre

• Open space buffer along the boundary of the Parker Vista neighborhood

PARCEL B

Schoolhouse

• Up to 2-stories

• Office / Retail

• 10,000 GSF

PARCEL F

PAR Property

• Office / Retail

• 28,000 GSF

• 35 parking spaces

PARCEL C

East Main

• 300 residential units

• 19,000 GSF Retail

PARKER - Activating PACE

PROPOSED PROGRAM

Parcels D & E

- 36,000 - 50,000 GSF Commercial

PARCELS D & E

- At least one restaurant with outdoor seating

PACE

~ 120 residential units

• 36,000 - 50,000 GSF commercial

~ 15,000 - 20,000 sf public plaza

Parking Structure

- Minimum of 255 spaces

• At least one restaurant with outdoor seating

• 120 residential units

• 15,000 - 20,000 sf public plaza

Parking Structure

• Minimum of 255 spaces

But that's what it's missing: the foot traffic. That's what this new development really is able to bring. That's what I think it's missing today, is more things to do and a draw to get people downtown.

We're trying to create a really vibrant mixed-use environment. Not dissimilar to what we've done in Castle Rock but unique to Parker. Ground floor retail, ground floor restuarants. Incorpoarting an office component to get people an opportunity to live on Mainstreet, walk to work, and then recreate after. It's a place for people to live, dine and shop, and a place for people to work.

I think the one thing you'll see a little differently there that we do; we're going to try to focus hard on the art component.

We want the local residents to have an opportunity to own their real estate. Whether it's a business or a residential unit, I think that's really important to downtown redevelopment. That pride of ownership.

It takes a lot of people, all working collaboratively together, to create these complicated mixed-use projects. I’ve been leading the process for our team, but there are so many of our team members that play an important role in what we do (our architect,

Craine Architecture, my business partners, Tim & Matt, and our entire company team of builders and property managers as well as the local politicians and town staff.)

This isn't just business for Tony. He has a history with Douglas County that he is proud to share.

DeSimone: My wife and her family has a long history in Douglas County. Some of the family dates all the way back into the 1860s when they homesteaded in Castlewood Canyon. I was introduced to Colorado in the Army after graduating from West Point. I was stationed at Fort Carson for my first assignment. I just loved Colorado. I would meet in Castle Rock to take my wife on dates back in the '90s. At the time, the town struck me as a charming town. When we left the military in 2005, we actually moved to Castle Rock and raised our children in the town.

I feel a lot of responsibilty to do a good job just because of my wife's family history here, and we're in the community. We want to be proud when we show up to our buildings and our communities.

To see the presentation of this plan to Town Council, go to parkerco.portal.civicclerk.com/event/1898/media.

The Future Starts Now

MICHELLE KIVELA | TOWN MANAGER

Michelle Kivela has worked in our town government for 10 years, the last 5 as our town manager. She has seen many changes in that time and many more in her 21 years as a Parker resident. Looking to our future, Michelle has a great vision and excitement for what lies ahead. She shared her insights and strategies as to what the future might hold for the Town.

Kivela: There has always been a really good sense of community here. You don't find that everywhere. I like Parker. This is were we moved right after I got married and we had our kids here; our kids are at school here, and after our kids leave we'll still be here. It's where I want to be by choice. We have a lot of support for moving forward, support for staff, support for getting things done, support for new ideas. That's one of the things I have always liked about Parker.

There are so many new opportunites in Parker becasue we aren't landlocked. We're not in a maintain mode. We have opportunities to continue growing our opportunites. I don't want to say it's growth in terms of more houses or more commercial; it's the whole experience. When I have looked at Parker, I've seen there are so many opportunites in terms of having that complete community.

My Mainstreet, I will say, I'm super excited about that. But it is going to take a year before we really see anything started on that. Everybody was so excited when it happened. There were a lot of high fives and we're so happy that we got there. For council and for the Mayor, this is a legacy; it's a legacy project. It's something they should be very proud to get accomplished. We've put a lot of time and effort into creating the development plan with Tony and really working on getting a proposal in front of council that would be acceptable to the community.

There's a whole bunch of stuff coming down the pipeline next year ... there's going to be a lot of dust flying in 2023. That's not just My Mainstreet stuff, it's a lot of parks, it's a lot of trails, it's road widening and infrastructure.

Look for a future article detaiing these many projects.

by OMAR CASTILLO | DBA PRESIDENT

Downtown is growing. There has not been much growth on the east end of Mainstreet in recent years, but over on the west end, the addition of the Ascent Hotel has welcomed new restaurants to enjoy a wide array of foods that attract visitors from all over South Metro area.

With the recent sale of the 5 parcels in November between the Town of Parker and Confluence Companies, we will welcome new retail, restaurants, office space, apartments and condos. This is super exciting as this growth needs to come to keep Parker residents spending their money here to fund all the wonderful amenities Parker has to offer. This excitement is something the Downtown Business Alliance of Parker (DBA) has supported and has been heavily involved in every step of the way since the DBA was created. The Dba visited some of the projects that Confluence Companies completed in Castle Rock and were super impressed with what they did. We are excited about the partnership between the Town of Parker & Confluence Companies. This new and welcomed growth on both ends of Parker Road is an exciting time for Parker and for downtown.

Established in 2015, the Downtown Business Alliance of Parker (DBA) serves the downtown Parker community. Downtown Parker has more than 50 shops, services, and restaurants in the downtown footprint. The DBA is made of 100% volunteers with no paid staff. The concentration and diversity of options puts Parker on the same level as other regional shopping districts in communities like Castle Rock, Lone Tree, Castle Pines, Highlands Ranch, Aurora, and Centennial.

The DBA just brought back The Hometown Christmas Parade on December 10th after a brief 2-year hiatus and had well over 65 participants, 100+ volunteers, and was planned from start to finish by a group of dedicated volunteers of the DBA. We also just recently did the Trunk or Treat off Mainstreet where over 1500 kids attended the event. Future plans in 2023 include their annual golf tournament in June, Trunk or Treat in November, the parade in December and they are currently looking at putting on a Fall Festival for all families to enjoy in downtown Parker.

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

CHERRY VILLAGE ASIAN GRILL

Offering a Chinese and Vietnamese-centric menu in a relaxed atmosphere.

17001 Lincoln Ave, #A, Parker 303-840-7338 $$

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 $$

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

More than just great sushi! Junz has been a local staple for years and remains one of the premier destinations for a casual night out or fine dining experience. If you are seeking a great restaurant to get acquainted with Japanese cuisine, look no further than Junz.

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

HAVANA'S BAKERY AND CAFÉ

A family-owned latin eatery who specializes in Cuban cuisine. They hand make all their flaky pastries and try to bring a tropical escape.

19757 Pikes Peak Ave, Parker 303-660-1935 $$ (N)

LA BAGUETTE DE NORMANDY

Certified master chef and chocolatier Michael Dupont serves a little piece of France right here in Colorado.

16524 Keystone Blvd, Unit C, Parker 303-805-9130 $

LA PETITE CREPERIE

The spot to grab madeto-order crepes. Sweet or savory, you can’t go wrong. 19751 Mainstreet, Parker 720-638-9722 $ (EC)

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 $$

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 CASITA

Vibrant, cantina-style eatery offering Mexican cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere.

18951 E Mainstreet, Parker 720-842-5181 $$

LAS DELICIAS

Bare-bones, family-owned local Tex-Mex eats for breakfast, lunch & dinner.

19553 E Mainstreet, Parker 303-840-0325 $$

LOS DOS POTRILLOS

Elegant family-owned eatery. There’s a combo dish to please everyone.

19340 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-840-6574 $$

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 $$

COLORADO

CORK & KEG

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.

3982 Limelight Ave, Castle Rock

303-814-2829 $$

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 $$

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 $$$

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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 $$