Located just a short drive south of downtown Denver, Cherry Hills Village is one of the most affluent cities in the United States. According to a recent article by Bloomberg, this tony enclave is the 4th richest town in the nation with an average household income of $406,314.
Known for its pastoral setting and diverse and sprawling estate homes, Cherry Hills was founded in 1945. Many of the homes have stunning views of the Front Range and/or enjoy privacy on large lots and offer striking landscaping . The city prides itself on the little commercial development that exists in the community. With that said, residents enjoy the trade-off of having to go a bit further to find shopping and other conveniences.
Except for a small commercial strip on the northwest corner of the community which houses Caribou Coffee, Pino’s Place, One2One Studio Salon, Cherry Hills Sushi Co. and South Philly Cheese Steaks, Cherry Hills Village is zoned residential only. Aside from areas designated as open space, parks/recreation and historic districts, country clubs, private sports/social clubs and churches are the only non-residential buildings allowed in the community.
As a result, the price one pays for living in this idyllic country-like setting is that it usually requires a car ride to get to area shops and boutiques. However, the trip will be worth it when you discover these gems on the south end of town. Regardless of your income, everyone loves a good deal as well as quality items, all of which you’ll appreciate when visiting these restaurants and establishments.
Pino’s Place, 1440 E. Hampden Ave., Suite 140
Located in the only commercial section of Cherry Hills Village, Pino’s Place is an Italian restaurant with a distinctive neighborhood feel. Highlighting the Tuscan and Ligurian flavors of his childhood, Pino’s Place is owned and operated by chef Pino Saverino. Rustic wood walls and floors blend nicely with industrial-style accents, offering a welcoming and bright decor. The menu focuses on comfort food with a modern edge with house specialties that include Pollo alla Cacciatora, Pasta al Formaggio and Pappardelle al Pesto con Gamberi. The pizza is also a favorite among Pino’s loyal customers. Enjoy a cocktail at the bar and watch local sports on TV during happy hour or while you wait for your to-go order.
Joy’s Consigned Furnishings, 5030 E. Hampden Ave.
Redirecting your shopping to the north section of Cherry Hills, this second hand store is the ‘real deal.’ Joy’s Consigned Furnishings has been around since 2002 and features a 10,000 square foot, uncluttered showroom. All the goods in this store are high quality, in excellent condition and typically sell for at least half of retail price. Some of the gems you’ll find in this treasure trove include beautiful upholstered chairs, oversized sofas and sectionals, bar stools, patio furniture and great deals on artwork, just to name just a few. Price drops occur at regular intervals so don’t wait too long to stake your claim. Joy’s is located in the Happy Canyon Shopping Center at Hampden Ave. and Happy Canyon Rd.
Duffeyroll Cafe & Bakery, 4994 E. Hampden Ave.
Initially, it was all about the cinnamon rolls. Now this iconic Denver eatery includes an assortment of breakfast items, savory sandwiches and wraps, delicious soups and salads, and smoothies. Duffey’s humble beginnings began on the 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver where the sumptuous sweet rolls were sold out of pushcarts. After establishing a fast and growing number of Duffeyroll fans, the original Duffey’s Bakery opened at this location in November of 1986. Since then, two more locations have been added. Whether you’re eating in or getting something to go, you’ll love the homestyle preparation and flavor of all of Duffeyroll Cafe and Bakery creations.
Patina Antiques and Home, 5989 S. University Blvd.
Looking for a unique gift? Trying to find that ‘something special’ for your home? Check out this cozy space in the Cherry Crest Shoppette. Small in size but packing a big punch, Patina Antiques and Home offers many one-of-kind pieces, and an assortment of French Country style and uncommon goods. Lovely hand-painted furniture, mirrors, distressed tables and cabinets, antique dishes and mirrors, and distinctive accessories are only a few of the items you’ll find. This is also an exceptional store to find last minute gifts and party favors. Located on the west side of University, just south of Orchard Ave.