(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Lebowski’s Taproom really ties Colorado Springs together; this movie-themed bar and grill is open and already capturing hearts and taste buds alike. FOX21’s Krista Witiak has this week’s Foodie Finds feature.
Located on the west side of Colorado Springs, Lebowski’s Taproom brings the cult classic film “The Big Lebowski” to life! For years, David and Monica Kowalski have talked about opening a pub-style restaurant, and now The Dude Abides.
“I never realized that we were not only going to run a bar and a full restaurant but also entertainment,” Monica Kowalski said.
A trip to Reykjavik, Iceland, with a stop at the most famous Big Lebowski-themed restaurant, gave them an idea.
“As soon as we walked in there, we knew that this was going to be the theme, the concept when we finally opened this crazy venture of ours,” David Kowalski expressed.
Monica Kowalski is a native of Southern Colorado and draws inspiration from her family roots. Her father was a coal miner, and her grandparents, Ben and Mary Valdez, managed the Colorado Bar on Main Street in Trinidad for years. Now, this Colorado Springs couple is mixing the familiar.
“I have people that have been in Colorado for just a little bit, and they’re like, ‘Oh, this is this flavor.’ But no, this is a Southern Colorado flavor,” Monica explained. “So, incorporating that flavor and teaching my staff how to make it was like bringing back the flavors I had at my grandmother’s house.”
With dishes named after movie characters and catchphrases, you can enjoy delicious food and drinks–all while paying homage to The Dude. Plus, just after opening the doors of Lebowski’s Taproom, the Kowalskis found inspiration in another family recipe.
“This is Our Lebowski’s Koolah. A coffee liqueur. It’s Monica’s Dad’s recipe,” David shared. “The second week we were open, we made a batch for our own use here in the restaurant. People enjoyed it.”
Monica said, “My dad and I used to make it, so it’s very nostalgic for me. The smell and flavor when I make it in-house is where and how I started. So when you see the bottle and the coin that says it’s a tribute to Donnie, that was truly a tribute to my dad, Donald Valdez. But it also has a little homage to the movie, too.”
So whether you’re a die-hard fan of ‘The Big Lebowski’ or simply looking for a unique dining experience, Lebowski’s Taproom promises to deliver.
Check out Foodie Finds under Features on FOX21News.com. Scan the QR Code or visit FOX21News.com/deals to snag a $50 gift certificate to Lebowski’s Taproom for just $25. But act fast — only 100 certificates are available, so grab yours today!
