Pictured above left to right: Chef Lance Barto and owners Liz and Myles Ogea are thrilled to be a part of the Castle Pines community with their new restaurant venture “The Social.” The newly-renovated bar features an extensive wine list as well as a wonderful offering of flavorful cocktails made with fresh juices.

Article and photo by Amy Shanahan

Restaurant entrepreneurs Myles and Liz Ogea were searching for the perfect spot for their new restaurant, and The Village at Castle Pines kept drawing them back. The energy of the neighborhood and the potential of the former “Rodney’s” location were exactly what they were looking for. Liz, who will be overseeing the day-to-day operation of the new restaurant remarked, “We kept coming back – it was such a great fit! We feel confident that our energy will really complement what is already here.”

“The Social,” which opened quietly in July, will host a grand opening in August. The premise behind the restaurant is to offer contemporary American fare with unique twists. The restaurant will feature only socially-responsible, healthy, organic, and locally-grown meats, vegetables and fruits. In addition to a seasonal brunch and dinner menu, the restaurant will feature a fresh juice bar which will also serve as the basis for an extensive cocktail menu.

In order to provide the best cuisine, the Ogeas went in search of an executive chef who shared their vision, and they were fortunate to hire Chef Lance Barto, who served as the executive chef for four years at “Strings” in Denver and was most recently the chef at the very popular “Linger” restaurant in the Highlands area of Denver. Barto oversees the menu, which he plans to adapt seasonally with two-to-three new menu items every couple of weeks. “I plan to feature seasonal, social food which is easily shared. Our customers will experience bright flavors driven by seasonal produce, with options available for vegans and gluten free,” said Barto.

In addition to a wonderful menu, the Ogeas completely remodeled the interior of the space in order to complete their vision. A mix of modern and contemporary décor features new light fixtures, funky mirrors, striped walls, and beetle-kill pine flooring. Socializing and integrated conversations are encouraged with comfortable booths upholstered in camel leather, bright orange bar stools, and oversized tables. The warm atmosphere lends itself perfectly to socializing and enjoying time with friends and family. Outside patio seating is also available, and the Ogeas plan to re-model and expand the patio during the winter.

“The Social” offers something for everyone, with its beautiful bar for visiting with friends and a warm and inviting dining area for couples, groups of friends, or families. The Ogeas have three young children themselves and encourage family dining by offering options on the menu for children.

“Our goal is to provide high quality food and beverages in a comfortable setting at a very good price,” remarked Myles. “We feature upscale casual dining with locally-sourced fare and we’ve integrated as much of Colorado as we possibly can.”

“The Social” is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m, brunch on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., and brunch on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The restaurant is located at 872 W Happy Canyon Rd, #100, in The Village at Castle Pines.