Arvada Small Business Spotlight
We’re lucky to have so many amazing small businesses in Arvada, and we want to help you get to know them a little bit better. That’s why we’re thrilled to partner with the Greater Arvada Chamber of Commerce and highlight ones that make Arvada so special.
Past Small Business Spotlights: Outside the Box | Odyssey Beerwerks | Electric Cherry | Sage Spade | The TRN | LUKI Brewery | Eli Ashby Healing Arts
By Ryan Hecht, Greater Arvada Chamber VP of Marketing and Communications. Read the full profile at the Arvada Chamber website.
This month, we’re proud to spotlight The Bluegrass Lounge, a beloved Olde Town Arvada staple known for Southern hospitality, award-winning bourbon selection, and a welcoming atmosphere for families, friends, and four-legged companions alike.
A Taste of Kentucky in the Heart of Arvada
Established in July 2015 by Drew and Sheena Gordon, The Bluegrass Coffee & Bourbon Lounge brought the flavors and spirit of Kentucky to the suburbs of Denver. Located in Olde Town Arvada, directly across from the RTD Gold Line Station, the lounge occupies a charming 130-year-old space transformed into a cozy gathering spot complete with Kentucky whiskey barrels, barnwood accents, horse-themed art, and a picturesque back patio.
For ten consecutive years, The Bluegrass has been recognized as one of the Top 80 Bourbon Bars in the United States, a testament to its curated collection of more than 150 whiskeys and commitment to craft.
In October 2020, the team expanded with a second Bluegrass Lounge location in the Candelas neighborhood, continuing the same warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and vibrant community connection guests have come to love.
Josh Schwartz, General Manager / Owner, has been part of The Bluegrass story for nine of its ten years. His hospitality journey started at just 16 years old, and he’s never looked back.
“I’ve always loved being in the industry and taking care of guests,” Josh shares. “I’m always willing to roll up my sleeves and tackle any task, no matter how big or small, to make The Bluegrass a better place.”
For Josh, what makes the work truly rewarding is the people. Getting to know the tight-knit Arvada community and building relationships with regular guests has been one of the greatest highlights of his career.
More Than a Bourbon Bar
The Bluegrass opens its doors daily at 7:00 am with house-roasted coffee, fresh pastries, and breakfast favorites. As the day unfolds, the Southern charm continues with award-winning pizza and sandwiches, live music nearly every night, and a vibrant lineup of events throughout the year.
“You will never be bored at any of our venues as we offer a wide range of exciting events throughout the year,” says Josh. “Make sure to stay connected with us on social media for updates on our Crawfish Boil, Pig Roast, Whiskey Wednesdays, S’mores and Whiskey Nights, and the highly acclaimed Christmas Pop-Up Bar ‘NOEL.'”
With around 50 team members across two locations, The Bluegrass continues to grow from within. Recently, longtime bartender Hannah Hopper was promoted to Operations Manager, and Office Manager Faviola McClanahan has begun a leadership development program, a reflection of the company’s investment in its people.
Lessons in Leadership & Community
Josh’s advice for new entrepreneurs in Arvada?
“Focus on building strong local relationships and understanding the community’s needs before scaling. Plug into resources like the Greater Arvada Chamber of Commerce and the Arvada Economic Development Association to access networking, data, and guidance that can help you launch smarter and grow faster.”
He also notes the realities of the restaurant industry (tight margins, rising costs, staffing challenges, and evolving customer expectations) and emphasizes that success requires far more than great food. It demands strategic financial management, strong team leadership, and adaptability.