When you open a new branch, there’s a lot to do besides unpacking boxes and figuring out new routines. There’s also a whole new neighborhood to get to know. So, when our Central Bank team opened our newest branch in downtown Littleton, we decided there was really only one thing to do: go explore.
We’re all about “banking, but make it fun,” so we put that into practice with a day spent discovering local businesses, meeting our neighbors, and supporting the community around our new branch. Our days may focus on banking, but we also enjoy great food and drinks, trying new things and, most importantly, having a good time along the way.
And what better way to get to know Littleton than by eating and drinking our way through it?
LUNCHING LOCAL AT ANGELO'S
Before the drinks, our team needed some sustenance, so we kicked things off at Angelo’s Taverna for lunch.
Starting the day with a good meal seemed like a pretty solid strategy, and Angelo’s did not disappoint. We settled in, enjoyed delicious salads and sandwiches, refreshing beverages and great service, and got some time together outside the office.
It was the perfect first stop—and a good reminder that there were plenty of places near our new branch worth getting to know.
UNCORKING A NEIGHBORHOOD GEM
With full stomachs, we walked over to Carboy Winery for a wine tour and tasting. Carboy’s Littleton location is its original production facility and flagship tasting room, bringing Colorado wine country to the Front Range.
This was where the “learning” part of our adventure really kicked in. Our guide, Victoria Wilson, Tasting Room Manager for the Front Range, shared the winemaking process and the craftsmanship behind each bottle. Her energy and enthusiasm made it easy to see why she was so passionate about Carboy.
We also learned how Colorado’s high-desert climate, abundant sunshine, unique soils and elevation helped create wines with remarkable freshness, bright acidity and distinct character.
“Carboy Winery was a highlight of the afternoon, pairing outstanding hospitality with thoughtful winemaking and a fun atmosphere. The Sauvignon Blanc was my favorite, bright and crisp with a finish that reflects Carboy’s approachable, refined style.” —Jill Kalkman, Private Banker
BASIL, BLOOMS & BOTTLES
Next, we headed to moxYcello where co-owners Laura Pringle and Laura Graves introduced us to one of their signature drinks: the Basil & Bloom.
For some of us, it was another chance to step outside our usual routines and try something completely new. Pringle mixed our drinks with so much love and attention that you could taste the pride she “poured” into every glass. She delivered each drink as a gift, then patiently waited as the team took their first sips. The looks of pure surprise and delight on their faces said it all.
From the drinks to the warm welcome, “The Lauras” made us feel instantly like part of the family. We can’t wait to go back and try all their other creative drinks!
“moxYcello is a true Littleton gem! My drink was creative, delicious, and unlike anything you’d find at a typical bar. The atmosphere is welcoming and fun, and I always enjoy supporting a fantastic locally owned business like this one.”—Sarah Rowland, Client Coordinator.
BUZZING INTO HAPPY HOUR
Our last stop was Honnibrook Mead Cottage, where we sampled a flight of seasonal meads—and even received a special visit from a rather large bee.
For some of us, mead was a completely new experience, making this stop especially fun. Honnibrook puts a modern spin on one of the world’s oldest beverages, combining honey, fruit and spices to create refreshing, flavorful craft meads. With more than 20 varieties to sample, choosing a favorite was tough.
Between tasting new flavors and plenty of laughs, this stop quickly became one of the highlights of our day. We may have arrived knowing very little about mead, but we left with a new appreciation for this unique Colorado craft—and some fun stories.
“My favorites were a toss-up between the Huckleberry and the Surrender. The Surrender was a pleasant surprise, with all the flavors beautifully coming together. Absolutely delicious and refreshing on a hot day.”—Aly Cox, Retail Banking Manager & Customer Experience
By the end of the day, we had eaten well, tried some great drinks, learned a lot and laughed even more. More importantly, we got to step outside the branch and experience a little of what makes downtown Littleton and the surrounding area so special.