Search Castle Rock July 2025 by Bret Tueller

Best Show In Town

BY SEARCH CASTLE ROCK STAFF

Top 10

Baseball Movies

Watching the Rockies right now is like watching a Bad News Bears movie. But like the song says, "What's more American than baseball?" If you google the greatest baseball movies of all time, you will get hundreds of different lists and opinions. Our staff took a crack at compiling our favortie list. Let us know what you think at contribute@tuellers.com

The Sandlot (1993)

The classic snuck up on people when it was released, but its nostalgia is even more powerful now. And it has the one most heard quotes of all time: "You're killin' me, Smalls!"

A League of Their Own (1992)

A movie that tells a terrific story that few people even knew about. The cast is terrific top to bottom -- even Madonna is good in it!

Field of Dreams (1989)

Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella is inspired by a voice he can't ignore to pursue a dream he can hardly believe. Dads cry every time they hear "have a catch" for the rest of time because of this movie.

42 (2013)

The story of Jackie Robinson's and Branch Rickey's battles to integrate baseball benefited greatly from its stars, Harrison Ford and the late Chadwick Boseman.

The Natural (1984)

A middle-aged unknown comes seemingly out of nowhere to become a legendary baseball player with almost supernatural talent.

The Rookie (2002)

This story of Jim Morris, the high school science teacher who ended up making the big leagues at the age of 35, is a classic underdog tale that has the useful advantage of being based on a true story.

Eight Men Out (1988)

The story of the Black Sox takes a literary, smart look at what remains the worst scandal in baseball's history.

Bull Durham (1988)

The conversations on the mound. The tricks for getting out of a slump. The managerial motivational tactics. Which hand to swing with in a fight. "Bull Durham" is a movie that understands the romance and madness of baseball.

Moneyball (2011)

Oakland A's general manager Billy Beane's successful attempt to assemble a baseball team on a lean budget by employing computer-generated analysis to acquire new players.

Major League (1989)

The new owner of the Cleveland Indians puts together a purposely horrible team so they'll lose and she can move the team. But when the plot is uncovered, they start winning just to spite her.

GRILLMASTER

COOK MEAT LIKE A PRO

Grilling and smoking meat in the great outdoors requires technique and skill that every carnivore should master. We researched local meat shops and spoke with grilling experts to share some advice for aspiring grill masters.

Mark Rosenthal

Meat Smoking Enthusiast

SELECTING A SOURCE

When it comes to meat, there is no such thing as a good deal. You get exactly what you pay for. If the price is low, so is the quality. Lower quality meats often come from animals that have been given growth hormones. Low quality chicken, for example, is often "pumped," tumbled en masse in a saltwater solution to tenderize and add flavor. Understanding this, and knowing how to read a label, will tell you before the spongy texture does if you chose well.

Meat is graded by the USDA, and while it has to be inspected before being sold, it doesn't have to be graded. The best cuts of beef are prime, followed by choice, select, commercial and then utility. Commercial, what you'll find in most chain stores, indicates that the meat has been inspected but not graded.

A higher quality of meat is more expensive, but more forgiving. If the product is high quality, it will have more flavor and a better texture, taking some of the pressure off of you at the grill. Remember that success at the grill starts with choosing the right cut of meat.

GRILLING

Season your cut of meat lightly with salt and pepper, your favorite marinade, or seasoning. Sear it on a hot grill before lowering the heat to cook it throughout. It's easy to overcook meat, especially pork. Meat is actually safe to eat at medium. Whether it's steak, pork, chicken, or salmon, the best way to tell if your meat is done is to use a thermometer. Every cut of meat is different; every grill is different. Meat thermometers don't change. A steak reaches medium-rare at around 130oF.

SMOKING

Nothing compares to brisket that falls apart at the touch of a fork. Smoking meat takes a tougher cut, like brisket or even shank, and applies indirect heat at a low temperature for a very long time. This breaks down muscle tissue, resulting in a tender, flavorful meat. For a mouthwatering flavor, try experimenting with different smoking woods. Alder, Sweet Maple, Cedar, Oak, Apple, Cherry, Hickory, Mesquite and many more. So much of the fun of outdoor cooking comes from experimentation. Rely on trial and error. Have you tried Cheez-it crackers on the smoker? You should.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY TONY'S MEATS & MARKET

10 Tips To Perfect Apple Pie

You can't have an "America" list without including a classic apple pie! This one from Applejournal.com is a beauty; here are their tips for creating that iconic dessert.

1. Mix your pastry with a light hand. Remember, it isn’t yeast dough: Kneading, pressing on it repeatedly or other excess handling prior to rolling will only make the crust turn out tough. Just mix it, shape it into a thick disk on a sheet of plastic wrap, and refrigerate.

2. Yes, refrigerate the dough before rolling. This simple but oft-overlooked step could rescue countless pie pastries that fall apart during rolling. Refrigerating the dough for 50 to 60 minutes firms up the fat and helps hold the pastry together as you roll.

3. Speaking of rolling, wax paper is an ideal substance to roll on. Just invert the pastry over your pie pan, center it, then peel off the paper.

4. Use a deep-dish pie pan, one that measures at least 1.5 inches from the inside bottom of the pan to the upper edge. Shallow pans make too skimpy of a pie. A typical 9-inch deep-dish pie pan will hold 7 to 8 cups sliced apples.

5. As for those apples, here are some pie favorites: Northern Spy, Idared, Crispin, Rhode Island Greening, Jonathan, Gravenstein, Golden Delicious, Cortland and Granny Smith.

6. You say the flavor of your apples is lacking? Instead of adding extra sugar to the filling, add 1 tablespoon lemon juice, some finely grated zest (the yellow part of the skin), and 2 tablespoons melted apple jelly.

7. Bake the pie on the center rack of your oven, no higher or the top of the pie may scorch. Start most apple pies at 400 degrees, then lower the oven temperature to 375 degrees for the second half.

8. At the first sign your pie is getting too brown, lay a large sheet of foil directly over the pie. But don’t scrunch it down around the sides. Since foil reflects heat, the edges of the pastry may end up underbaked.

9. Your pie is done when the juices bubble thickly, which means that your thickening has jelled. You’ll most likely see those juices at the edge of the pan, not the center. If you’re making a double-crust pie, poke a steam vent in the top crust with a paring knife, near the edge, so you can see the juice.

10. Cool your pie on a cooling rack for at least 1 to 2 hours before slicing so the juices can firm up. Applejournal.com

the BEST SHOW in TOWN

A guide to find the “best seat in the house” for Fourth of July celebrations in the county.

In the eyes of many Americans, the Fourth of July is a day for parades, barbecue and, of course, fireworks. Nothing draws crowds or says, “July Fourth,” like fireworks.

The tradition got its start at the beginning of our nation’s history after the Founding Fathers met in Philadelphia to write and sign the Declaration of Independence. A day after the Continental Congress adopted the declaration on July 4, 1776, John Adams - soon the second U.S. president - penned a letter to his wife, Abigail, declaring that Independence Day, “ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shews, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other from this time forward forever more.”

One year later, in 1777, Philadelphia celebrated the anniversary with fireworks, which Adams dubbed, “illuminations,” plus a parade commemorating Independence Day.

When we’re watching fireworks, we don’t care who’s sitting next to us. Rich, poor, conservative, liberal, none of that matters. All we want is an unobstructed view. We want to see the joy in our kids’ faces, to hear their “oohs” and “ahs” - and maybe feel like a kid ourselves for a while.

For those 20 minutes we are all, simply, Americans.

Here is a listing of the best celebrations and displays available in our county.

Aurora 4th of July Spectacular

6:00 - 10:00 PM - Aurora Municipal Center

Live musical performances, free face painting, food trucks, craft vendors and a fireworks show revered as “one of the best in Colorado” that starts at 9:30 p.m.

Castle Rock

3:00 - 10:00 PM - Downtown

Starting at 3 p.m. at Festival Park, there will be a 5K for the entire family. There will be food trucks and Ryan Chrys & the Rough Cuts will take the stage at 6:00. Fireworks will start with a three-shot salute, the 15-minute show will shoot off from the former Acme Brick facility on Prairie Hawk Drive.

Lone Tree

9:00 AM - 10:00 PM - Sweetwater Park

The Family Fun Ride & Stroll one-mile trek starts along Willow Creek Trail. Then Kona Ice, Polar Bros Nitro Ice Cream, Billy’s Gourmet Hot Dogs and Philly on the Go. There will also be a wide range of food trucks and live music. Fireworks at 9:30pm.

Highlands Ranch

7:30 AM - 10:00 PM - Town Center

The celebration kicks off with the annual Independence Day 5K. Starting at 8:45 a.m., the parade will begin with a pet and bike precession before the official parade begins. Entertainment throughout the day will include live music and acts from various area artists. Fireworks at 9:00pm.

Parker Stars and Stripes Celebration

9:30 PM - Salisbury Park

The 18-minute fireworks show in Parker will launch at 9:30 p.m. north of Salisbury Park. This is a remote viewing event.

In the interest of providing the 50 best dining options in Douglas County, we must be able to personally recommend each listing. The guide is subject to change. If you have a suggestion for inclusion on the list, email us at contribute@tuellers.com.

KEY

Based on a typical dinner for one person, excluding drinks, tax or tip.

$ ............................. Under $15 $$ ............................... $15-$25 $$$ ......................... Over $25 (EC) Editors Choice (N) New

Asian fusion

DANCING NOODLE

A small, family owned, dinein and take-out restaurant that serves authentic homestyle Thai food. 10841 S. Crossroads Dr., Suite 10, Parker 303-805-3880 $$

INDOCHINE

A local go-to for quality home-style cuisine. This Parker fixture is known for a fresh, creative menu.

19751 E Mainstreet, Parker 720-851-8559 $$

ITO SUSHI ASIAN BISTRO

Asian fusion restaurant known for quality ingredients and fresh fish daily.

2240 Mercantile St #100, Castle Rock 720-749-6777 $$ (N)

JOHN HOLLY’S Chinese and Thai dishes that are nothing less than the culinary equivalent of an exotic adventure.

9232 Park Meadows Dr, Lone Tree 303-768-9088 $$

THE GUIDE

THE BEST PLACES TO DINE IN DOUGLAS COUNTY

PEGASUS

A local favorite for breakfast and lunch, Pegasus has something for everyone. They have served an ecletic menu in a comfortable setting for the past 31 years. While you're there, go see the giant riverboat roulette wheel behind the bar!

JUNZ

A favorite sushi place in town with a unique blend of Japanese and French at its very best.

11211 S. Dransfeldt Rd., Parker 720-851-1005 $$

BAKERY/DESSERTs

LA PETITE CREPERIE

The locals favorite spot to grab made-to-order crepes. Sweet or savory, you can’t go wrong. Proudly serving farm to table fresh.

19751 Mainstreet, Parker

720-638-9722 $ (EC)

PARIS BAGUETTE

Popular Korean chain that brings expertly crafted baked goods through a warm and welcoming bakery cafe’ experience that delivers joy to everyone.

18374 Cottonwood Dr., Parker

720-500-5555 $ (N)

POULETTE BAKESHOP

New artisan bakers taking Parker by storm. Order early, they sell out every day!

19585 Hess Road, Parker 303-955-5647 $ (N)

BARBEQUE

BIG JIMS

Don’t be fooled by this being a food truck; if you like southern BBQ, this is your place. Corner of Parker Rd and Longs Way, Parker $$$

GQUE BBQ

Award-winning food. Try the wood-smoked ribs, brisket, pork, or garlic potatoes. 8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Suite 143B, Lone Tree 303-729-2506 $$

HICKORY HOUSE

The Parker tradition. Known for their baby back ribs, but don’t miss the pulled pork and barbeque chicken. 10335 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-805-9742 $$

OLD WEST BBQ

A hidden gem with familyfriendly pricing. Don’t miss out on their breakfast burritos. 107 Wolfensberger Rd., Castle Rock 303-660-6340 $

BREW PUB

20 MILE TAP HOUSE

Best known for their burgers and wings. Make sure to catch Trivia Tuesdays. 12543 N Hwy 83, Parker 303-841-6782 $$

GREAT DIVIDE BREWERY & ROADHOUSE

Destination locale with an informal ambiance offering hearty comfort classics 215 Wilcox St Suite G, Castle Rock 303-955-5788 $$ - $$$ (N)

ROCKYARD BREWING CO.

Douglas County’s longest running brew pub. Steaks, burgers, pizza and soup! 880 Castleton Rd, Castle Rock 303-814-9273 $$

TAILGATE TAVERN & GRILL

Your neighborhood tavern for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Sports bar with live music not to miss on the weekends.

19552 E. Mainstreet, Parker 303-841-7179 $$

THE LIBRARY CO. BAR & KITCHEN

Offering great food & amazing drinks in a relaxed and warm atmosphere. Clear and simple menu options. 3911 Ambrosia St., Suite 101, Castle Rock 720-389-5986 $$

ITalian

CRANELLI’S

Comfort Italian food in a rustic, cozy, casual familyoriented format.

10047 Park Meadows Dr., Lone Tree 303-799-3661 $$

DANIELLE’S SCRATCH KITCHEN

Stylish, energetic eatery offering elevated Italian fare with an emphasis on great customer service.

872 Happy Canyon Rd. Suite 100, Castle Rock 303-524-9788 $$$

PORTOFINO

Authentic Italian eatery featuring pizza, pasta, calzones and heros. The local “go-to” for fresh Italian. 10920 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-841-9900 $$

SCILEPPI’S

A modern Italian restaurant focused on family recipes and premium ingredients. 210 Third St., Castle Rock 303-688-9000 $$

VIA BACI

Neapolitan pizzas join modern Italian fare at this casual eatery featuring a full bar & patio. 10005 Commons St, Lone Tree 303-790-0828 $$

MEXICAN

ADRIANNA’S

Intimate Mexican eatery for authentic cuisine in a relaxed ambiance. Great for parties. 7272 E Hwy 86, Franktown 303-663-7800 $$

CASA MARIACHI

Unassuming local joint serving up straight-forward Mexican plates.

9771 S Parker Rd, Parker 720-842-5105 $$

LA LOMA

Upscale-rustic atmosphere known for traditional Mexican meals.

6361 Promenade Pkw, Castle Rock 303-632-9900 $$ (N)

LAS POTRANCES

Casual Mexican restaurant full of real Mexican culture, Mexican Food, Fresh Drinks, and Friendly Hospitality. 19600 Solar Cir, Parker 303-840-0325 $$ (N)

LOS DOS POTRILLOS

Elegant family-owned eatery. There’s a combo dish to please everyone.

6370 Promenade Pkwy., Castle Rock

720-769-5474 $$

LOS VOLCANES

Don’t miss the Carnitas! And bring your appetite for the large portions.

10471 S. Parker Rd., Parker 303-841-0160 $$

new american

CASTLE CAFE

Set in a former 1890s hotel. Plating hearty American fare like pan-fried chicken & burgers.

403 Wilcox St, Castle Rock 303-814-2233 $$

VALERIE’S

BREWHOUSE

Uniquely fun sports bar with a creative menu of brats and dogs.

971 Park St., Castle Rock 303-660-2399 $

CRAVE

A favorite gourmet burger joint. Imaginative menu with amazing handcrafted shakes. 3982 Limelight Ave, Castle Rock 303-814-2829 $$

DOUG’S DAY DINER

American breakfast cafe where everything is made from scratch.

18595 Mainstreet, Parker 720-476-7162 $$

MANNA

A casual sit-down destination with a menu that reflects Colorado’s growing season. 2350 Meadows Blvd., Castle Rock 720-455-3664 $

PARKER GARAGE

The Parker landmark located right downtown offers a locally-sourced menu. Great service and large portions. 19420 Mainstreet, Parker 720-389-8105 $$ (EC)

PEGASUS

A local favorite for breakfast or lunch. American, Greek or Mexican dishes.

313 Jerry St., Castle Rock 303-688-6746 $$

RORY’S

Comfort food and baked goods at their finest. Don’t see it on the menu? Ask for it!

11020 S Pikes Peak Dr., Parker 720-708-2889 $$

SIERRA

High-end, wood-fired kitchen with a warm ambiance, preparing select American dishes. 10680 Cabela Dr., Lone Tree 303-662-8800 $$

TRIBE AT RIVERWALK

Upscale, yet casual dining experience with a one-of-akind menu. Don’t miss the brunch.

115 Wilcox Street, Castle Rock 303-362-0904 $$$ (N)

WEST MAIN TAPROOM

A modern and open venue that boasts thoughtful and honest cuisine. A haven for the gluten-free crowd. 18595 Mainstreet, Parker 720-826-3689 $$

PIZZA

ANTONIO’S

A traditional family-style Italian pizza restaurant with a Brooklyn flair. 12947 S Parker Rd., Parker 720-851-5300 $

ARTISAN

Delicious Neapolitan-style pizza that makes each dish an individual work of art! And don’t forget dessert. 12311 Pine Bluffs Way, Parker 303-840-0518 $

COLORADOUGH

A refreshing take on madefrom-scratch pizza. So fresh they don’t even have a freezer! 17860 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-386-3333 $$

LIL’ RICCI’S

New York pizzas & other red sauce staples in a low-key setting. Can’t miss the garlic knots. 16526 Keystone Blvd, Parker 303-220-7422 $$

PARRY’S

NY-style pizza, wings, & casual Italian eats, in kidfriendly quarters. 5650 Allen Way, Castle Rock 303-814-8686 $$

STEAKHOUSE

DUKE’S

Rustic restaurant featuring beef & seafood dishes, plus a sports tavern with an Irish vibe.

363 Village Square Lane, Castle Pines

303-814-2487 $$$

FOGO DE CHAO

Upscale Brasilian steakhouse with all-you-can-eat meat carved tableside. Guaraná is a must, and try the Creme de Papaya. 8419 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree 303-481-4001 $$$ (EC)

PERRY’S

Chops, seafood, wine, & cocktails served in an upscale setting with a lounge & live jazz. 8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree 303-792-2571 $$$

TEXAS ROADHOUSE

Texas-themed steakhouse with a great menu and wonderful atmosphere. 11205 S. Parker Rd, Parker 303-805-5848 $$

TRAPPER’S

CHOP HOUSE

Upscale hideaway local favorite featuring their signature Volcanic Hot Rock sear-it-yourself experience. 19308 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-248-2132 $$$

UNIQUE

VISTAVINO MODERN

Quaint Tuscan grill made fresh from local fare. Every dish is a winner!

611 Wilcox St., Castle Rock 303-814-2487 $$

Culinary Chronicles

My husband absolutely loves barbecue, but we had yet to find a go-to spot in Parker. On a whim, he asked if we could go to Hickory House; I am so glad that we made the trip!

Even before we tasted the food, my husband's excitement peaked when he noticed posters proudly showcasing Hickory House's feature on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. We'll definitely be hunting down that episode this weekend!

While the kids happily found their go-to favorites like burgers and chicken strips, my husband and I opted to share a barbecue combo plate – and what a spread it was! Our plate included perfectly smoked and tender pulled pork, succulent brisket, and a half rack of unforgettable baby-back ribs. This generous platter was perfect for sharing, accompanied by warm garlic bread, a fluffy baked potato, crisp coleslaw, and classic baked beans. The ribs truly were the star of the show; they practically fell off the bone and were lightly sauced, allowing us to customize with their three distinct BBQ sauce options: fiery habanero, bold and spicy, or the classic original.

Throughout our meal, the service was consistently prompt and friendly, and our generous plastic cups of iced tea and lemonade kept us refreshed. Our only regret? We discovered their baked cookie and ice cream dessert a little too late to order it! Note to self (and readers!): This sweet treat requires some bake time, so plan to order it when your food arrives. The kids are already eagerly planning our next visit just for that!

Hickory House has officially become our family's new go-to BBQ spot in Parker– we highly recommend you give it a try!

Denise Woods is a freelance writer.