Reviews Annie’s Cafe: Colfax Showstopper
Now settled into a long-time favorite nook at 3100 East Colfax Avenue — the original Goodfriends — whose lease co-owners Lee Goodfriend and David Racine signed over on May 15 — business has taken off once again. With the floor space doubled, the addition of a bar and regular happy hour, provisions for large functions, and, of course, a full inventory of old-time candy, Anderson and Williams say that they are settling into the new place with ease.
Established in 1981 by Anderson and Williams, Annie’s Cafe was attached to an old-fashioned drug store with authentic soda fountain. What started on the premise that its fun to invent a vintage basis (i.e. pay homage to the days of the 1950s diner) has now gained historical capital. Annie’s today has legitimate claims to vintage heritage, having uprooted the original memorabilia and staff, and brought tributes from the old location with them to Colfax. They are now a living piece of memorabilia.
Menu of Memorabilia “I’d say we have only reinstalled about 75 percent of the memorabilia,” said Anderson, from within a room lit up with mounted vintage prints and antique telephones. She explains that the menu is also comprised of family photos dating back as far as 1920. “We were looking for old photos and thought, why not use our own,” Anderson added. The foyer will encapsulate the feel of the former Annie’s Cafe, original Goodfriends, and Pick-a-Rib — the establishment housed at that location in the 1930s.
Most importantly to the regulars who have followed the move is the menu, vicariously honed across 27 years through the peculiar tastes of patrons, and success of specials. Described primarily as “comfort food” by Anderson, expect to see American classics like Sloppy Joe sliders and Fanta Floats prevail.
Dining Time Warp “If you worked for us long enough, we named something after you,” noted Anderson, who has had staff stay with her for close to 27 years, and points out that there is also a regular customer honored on the menu — “Shelley’s Omelet.”
Most importantly, in this time warp, nothing has changed since the relocation, owing to the same chefs and kitchen staff. “During the move, Diane and I were crying a lot!” quips Anderson. “But our old fans came back and said, ‘Aah, the food still tastes the same.”’
Perhaps with the addition of a bar, Annie’s has come of age; patrons can now enjoy an all-day breakfast, entailing idiosyncratic orders like Guinness and French toast at 10 p.m.
Hit Near Bluebird “Although it was strange to see Annie’s in a new location I’m glad that they are still around and are staying true to their roots,” said Cherry Creek Valley resident Anastasia Lee. “I’ve been an Annie’s patron for years and I will continue to eat my meals at one of the best local spots in the area.”
Suddenly coming to prominence near the Bluebird Theatre, Annie’s has also been host to numerous parties, including family reunions, post-wedding breakfasts, birthdays, club events and a wedding rehearsal dinner. “The bride,” explains Anderson, “had come in the day she was born, when we worked opposite the hospital. She was a lifelong customer.” Open at the current location since June 9, the question now is which birthday to celebrate.
“We always have cake for everyone on our birthday, but now we don’t know whether to celebrate — February 18 (the original opening day), or June 9 — I hadn’t even thought of it!’ says Anderson. Annie’s Cafe & Bar is located at 3100 East Colfax Avenue (East Colfax and St. Paul Street). Peggy Anderson and Diane Williams can be reached at 303-355-8197.