Omayra Acevedo, Peak to Peak. Nestled at exactly 8,888 feet above sea level in Coal Creek Canyon is the Wondervu Café. In case you’re wondering, yes, I’m spelling it correctly. Only recently did I learn that it was founded in 1976 by still current owners, Adeline and Leonard Ortiz. Pretty impressive when you consider the number of businesses in remote locations that, unfortunately, have great difficulty succeeding this long. 

Approaching the structure, you might assume that it’s just another ordinary place to eat. That’s until you walk inside. The first thing you’ll notice is the Southwestern and Rocky Mountain décor that makes you feel like you’ve just entered someone’s personal kitchen in a log cabin. And just like someone’s personal home, this one also offers you the option of enjoying an adult beverage. 

My favorite place to sit back, share some chips, salsa and a few laughs with friends is on their outdoor patio. Don’t forget, however, to take a few minutes to walk around and appreciate all the things hanging on their walls. One of which, is a poster of the 1997 movie Switchback with Danny Glover. A scene from the movie was filmed at the Wondervu Café. If you watch the movie, I’m pretty certain you’ll know exactly which scene it was. Coal Creek Canyon and a few other parts of our colorful state also make an appearance in the movie. 

Want to know more about the Wondervu? I’m afraid you’re going to have to go there and experience the place for yourself. Life is a bit more laidback in the mountains. If you’re impatient and expect fast food type of service, well, I’m going to be direct and suggest you go elsewhere. If you’re still up for the challenge, well, order yourself a mojito as you get seated and sip it while partaking in life’s small little pleasures. Like, the atmosphere, the weather – perhaps, even take a few minutes to make a new friend. They also have a gift shop that you can spend a few minutes in.

So, whether you’re ordering take out, dining in, treating yourself to truffles, the Wondervu Café is a great place to hang out, in what some may consider ‘the middle of nowhere.’ It is family owned and operated, offers a full menu, outdoor seating, a bar and a truly wonderous view.

The Wondervu Café is located at 33492 Hwy 72, Golden, Colorado 80403. Their phone number is 303-642-7197.

(Originally published in the June 20, 2019, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)