Zoka's Restaurant and Bar

News & Reviews
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Mountain Connection
Business Profile
Zoka's Restaurant & Bar
January 14, 2007
By: Michael W. Hogan

Unexpected World-Class Cuisine in a Picture-Perfect Mountain Setting
A first visit to Zoka's Restaurant & Bar promises an experience in the unexpected. The short but scenic journey south of the Pine Junction intersection at Highway 285 lands you in historic Pine Grove. Every direction you look in the lush green valley that is fed by the South Platte River rewards the eye with breathtaking views: Weeping Rock, Swan Hereford Ranch and Long Scraggy Peak, Elephant Rock, and on and on. The most unexpected and rewarding surprises, however, are found inside the attractive rustic wood building.

The interior of Zoka's has been tastefully renovated to reflect the local culture and history, with large murals and other beautiful artwork gracing the walls. But, fulfilling the vision of owners Kurt and Karen Blackwell and chef John Mendes, “it's all about the food”. Chef Mende prepares a wide range of dishes using natural and organic ingredients. The menu changes frequently; dictated by availability of only the freshest ingredients. And the only thing more unexpected than the high quality and variety of the food in this beautiful mountain setting is the affordability of the fare. Many Denverites are trading in the big city experience for a drive up the mountains to Zoka's.

When dining at Zoka's, it's common for the owners to stop and chat with each guest to explain the “flavor profile” of the selected meal. From entres to sides, every element of every dish is carefully created to work together; and everything is homemade, from stocks to dressing to the exquisite desserts. Chef Mendes is even happy to create custom meals for vegans and vegetarians upon request.

When founding Zoka's in 2006, the Blackwells wanted to create an enjoyable dining experience that folks could share not only with their children—special Bento Box meals are offered for kids—but also their canine friends. The restaurant has short leashes set up below the porch with service down to the pups. Not surprising, since the restaurant was named after “Zoka”, the Blackwell's own beloved canine.

You can get more information about Zoka's Restaurant & Bar, including their catering services, specialty kid's and dog's menus and upcoming specials and events, by calling 303-838-0378 or visiting their website at www.zokas.com . Zoka's is located at 16940 S. Pine Valley Road (CO-126), seven miles southeast of Pine Junction at Highway 285.

High Timber Times - "... shows love of food, countryside..."
August 3, 2006, Pamela Lawson

Park County Republican and Fairplay Flume - " Brings New Flavor to Pine...
Offers Locals Healthy Aternative...
New Restaurant Offers fresh, local food and an ever
changing menu... "
November 3, 2006, Cate Malek
Read full review here

Courtesy of The Flume