Why Supporting Local Restaurants in CO is More Important Than Ever

Here in Colorado, we love our local businesses. Not only does shopping and eating local help keep our communities vibrant, but it also supports the hardworking entrepreneurs and families who own these establishments. 

Supporting local restaurants has become even more crucial in 2020 and beyond, with the pandemic forcing many of them to close their doors or significantly alter how they conduct business.

Fortunately, many small businesses and locally-owned restaurants have begun to recover post-pandemic, but many still need your help. Supporting local eateries in and around Dillon, Colorado, can help ensure that these establishments remain open for business and continue to serve delicious food in the community.

Why Shop Local in Dillon?

Here at Arapahoe Cafe & Pub in Dillon, we know a thing or two about local restaurants - because we are one! 

Over the years, we've had the privilege to watch Dillon grow and thrive as a city, and much of that success is due to the incredible local businesses that have made our town. 

We believe that restaurants like ours are essential for maintaining a strong sense of community and bringing people together, even in uncertain times. And with 90% of restaurants having 50 or fewer employees, it's crucial to find ways to help keep these vital businesses operational!

Here are five special reasons why supporting local restaurants in Colorado is more important than ever!

1. Local Restaurants Offer Rich History and Unique Offerings

Maybe the best reason to eat local is that no two local restaurants are alike. Whether it's a family-run Italian joint or an independent cafe serving up coffee and pastries, each establishment has its own unique atmosphere and flavor - literally!

Eating at these places is like taking a trip into the past, with their stories of long-standing traditions and recipes handed down from generation to generation. 

At Arapahoe Cafe & Pub, we've built over two decades of memories with our customers, and it's these connections that keep us going even when times are tough.

2. Local Restaurants Help Keep Your Community Vibrant

Supporting local restaurants doesn't just benefit the restaurant owners, but it also helps out your entire community! Local businesses and restaurants inject more than just money into the local economy, they give the community a sense of life.

When you visit a local eatery in Dillon, you're not just getting a delicious meal - you're helping bring people together and create an environment that encourages creativity and fosters relationships among residents.

We're proud to be a vibrant part of our community - locking arms with other businesses to support growth and opportunity here in Dillon.

One of our local staff members, Andy!

3. Local Restaurants Support Local Jobs

Local restaurants are often smaller operations, with most of their employees being local residents. This means that when you eat at a local restaurant, you're helping provide jobs for your neighbors - something that's become increasingly important during these uncertain times. In fact, nearly 63% of American adults have worked in a restaurant - making local restaurants an essential part of our national workforce!

Many of the staff we employ at Arapahoe Cafe & Pub have been with us for years. Not only do they bring their expertise to the table, but they also bring a passion and dedication to serving our customers that are hard to match. They create a community that we're proud to be a part of, which is why we continue to strive to make our restaurant the best it can be.

4. Local Restaurants Keep Money Local

When you support a local restaurant like Arapahoe Cafe & Pub, your dollars stay in the community.  

Rather than lining the pockets of a conglomerate, your money goes back into the local economy. This means that when you purchase from us, it's a direct investment in the people of Dillon and the businesses around us! 

A recent study revealed that a mere $10 monthly purchase by every US family at a local business would directly infuse over $9.3 billion into our economy. And at Arapahoe Cafe, each dollar we make goes directly into our products, our people, and our community - and we couldn't be more grateful for your support. 

Remember that when you eat local in Dillon, you are investing in the future of your community, state, and nation!

5. Local Restaurants Support Local Causes & Charities

Many local restaurants in Dillon, CO, support local charities and events. Just like our commitment to our community, our dedication to giving back to causes that matter is just as strong.

Throughout the years, we have participated in numerous local fundraising events and donated money to charities in our area. We believe it's important to give back and be an active community member, and we put our money where our mouths are! And when we can pay it forward in Dillon, we know that our customers will be right there with us.

Quick Tips for Supporting Local Restaurants in Dillon

Want to get started on supporting local restaurants in Dillon? Here are some quick tips for how you can make a difference:

  1. Consider ordering takeout - Even if you don't have the means to dine in, there are still ways for you to support local restaurants. 

  2. Share your favorite spots online - Encourage friends and family to check out your favorite eateries in town! Positive word of mouth is vital for most local businesses.

  3. Leave a review - It can be as simple as leaving a five-star rating on Yelp or Google to show your support. 73% of consumers trust businesses that have positive reviews.

  4. Follow their social media accounts - Showing love for local restaurants online is a great way to spread the word about their unique offerings and delicious food!

  5. Buy a gift card - Keep an eye out for gift cards or special offers - it's another excellent way to show your support.

Eat Local - Eat at Arapahoe Cafe & Pub!

When it comes to supporting local restaurants in Colorado, the reasons are endless. From unique flavors and rich history to job creation and charitable giving - eating local is an investment that benefits everyone! And best of all, when you invest in your community, the community invests back in you.

So if you're looking for a local restaurant that serves amazing food and provides meaningful support to the community of Dillon, come check out Arapahoe Cafe & Pub! 

We'd love to have you join us for lunch, dinner, or just a casual bite to eat - and we promise it will be an experience you won't forget.