Inspiring Conversations with Jennifer Allen of Bear Cub Coffee & Pub

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Allen.

Jennifer, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up in Thornton, Colorado – a suburb of Denver. In high school, I would spend as much time as possible in the mountains. I had this notion that every person who lived in the mountains was always happy and that they had achieved complete fulfillment. This is how much I have always loved the mountains. My coffee shop is located in what was once a little gas station/convenience store. As a teen, I would come to this gas station – called “The Little Log Store” on my way up the mountain to get the essential snacks and soda. This area contains the nostalgia imprinted in my memory of that era of my youth. I ended up moving to Morrison in 2019, which gave me the opportunity to re-acquaint myself with this area.

It so happened that the previous “Little Log Store” was now a coffee shop that I would patronize. In time I inquired with the owners to see if they were interested in selling the shop. They happened to be at a place where they were ready to retire. I took possession and re-began a coffee shop under the new name of “Bear Cub Coffee & Pub”. The week before we were too close to the building, there was a black bear that came to the shop for a visit to jump on the trash can looking for some leftover treats! Since September 1st, 2022, we have been working to update and create a community-friendly, mountain ambiance vibe that welcomes new and old friends alike. We host art walks to try to highlight local artists, as well as other fun events that encourage bringing folks together.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has been an extremely difficult path. Although our shop is a smooth and quick detour off of HWY 285, many folks did not know we were here. We had to apply for signage to be placed on the highway which has taken a very long time; however, we did finally accomplish what was required to have them placed. staffing has been the greatest challenge. Luckily, we currently have the best staff that could ever be hoped for.

Unfortunately, the consistent increase in costs has also been an obstacle. The shop has never been, in the short time we’ve been in operation, profitable. We have had to fortify it financially each month to keep it afloat.

Honestly, at this point, we are considering selling the shop.

The sad part is how often we hear what a great place it is and what it means to them to have it here in the community. Our customers notice every little improvement we make and the effort we make to create a welcoming space. Our customers are so supportive and kind and each one brings a special uniqueness that can only be accomplished by their consistent presence and sharing of themselves and their stories.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We are known for serving great coffee drinks, our friendly customer interaction, and the mountain ambiance. Our customers become our friends and we look forward to seeing them and hearing how they’re doing. We are a quaint coffee shop located across the street from the historic tourist attraction “Tiny Town”. Our area is rich in history with a little historic schoolhouse just up Turkey Creek about 2 miles.

We’re also right next to the entrance of a hiking trail that was once a connecting wagon trail. The locals have told me that there was a family that started a business offering mules to travelers to help pull their wagons over the large rocks. The area and the community are the key elements that make our coffee shop special. The logo, which many people comment on, was my daughter’s vision. She drew up a rough sketch in a matter of 5 minutes and that picture was the image I used to create the current logo. It’s something I love about the shop.

The amazing coffee, cozy refreshing mountain atmosphere, and friendly staff are why people support our business. We have a large patio that offers lots of sunshine and cool breezes. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a latte while reading a book or catching up with friends. Customers come to spend the day on their computer working, or they drop by to grab their favorite on their way to or from wherever they’re headed.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Currently: The Holy Bible. Bible in a Year with Father Mike Schmidt podcast. The Mystical City of God by Mary of Agreda.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.bearcubcoffeepub.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/bearcubcoffeepub
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bearcubcoffeepub