We had the good fortune of connecting with Eric Martinez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Eric, how do you think about risk?
I have found risk is a requirement in any endeavor; especially small business. I’m a firm believer that everything you are hoping for lies just on the other side of your comfort zone. There are things happening for both my business and personal life that are a direct result of me putting myself out there without fear (or rather with fear but doing it anyway, which is the definition of courage). Failure can happen; as can success. The only sure way you will achieve neither is to do nothing. Take the risk!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I own Java Groove Cafe in downtown Evergreen Colorado! We focus on PEOPLE. Our customers, our crew; literally every single person who walks through the front door. When you visit us, please know you are WELCOME, you BELONG, and we’re happy to see you!

Running a small community facing business in a small mountain town certainly comes with its share of challenges. I will say I gladly take those on daily to serve my community!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Tough to answer in such an incredible mountain town! A good day though could be:

– Start at Java Groove for coffee and breakfast.
– Take a sixty second walk from the front door of the cafe to Bear Creek, and enjoy scenes and sounds of moving water
– After your creekside reset, walk through downtown and visit the many unique shops and boutiques. Some of my favorites are Sweetwater Boutique and Holly Berry Flowers.
– Swing back around to Cactus Jacks for lunch. Sit by the creek on their patio and you may be treated to a live band playing!
– Continue your adventure with more moments in nature, either at Elk Meadow park or Three Sisters. You can’t go wrong.
– If you’re looking for brews, Evergreen Brewery or Revival Brews cant be missed!
– The breweries are also a great place to grab dinner, or for something more formal head over to Evoke

Keep in mind there are all season activities here! Paddle boarding, kayaking, hiking, mountain biking in warm weather, ice skating, snow shoeing, hockey, and more in winter!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Megan Mitchell, Owner Cactus Jacks Restaurant & Saloon, mcactusjacks@gmail.com

Website: https://www.javagroovecafe.com

Instagram: @javadadlife (Eric Martinez) – note this is my personal but my town and business are featured

Facebook: https://facebook.com/javagroove

Other: TikTok: @javadadlife (Eric Martinez)

Image Credits
Picture by Rachel Rooke, Eric Martinez

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