Homegrown Tap & Dough opened its third and largest location in Ken Caryl on March 1, bringing creative Italian fare and approachable fine dining to one of Denver’s popular neighborhoods for families. True to its other locations in Denver and Arvada, Homegrown Tap & Dough’s latest restaurant offers quality food and unique ambiance, including a booth in a repurposed ski gondola and an outdoor fire pit in the shadows of the foothills. Portions are sized right, and there’s always plenty of local beer on tap for thirsty parents.

In addition to wood-fired pies such as Pigs and Pears, the Weekend Warrior (a fun spin on classic pepperoni), and classics such as Spicy Sausage and Meat Lovers, diners can dig into roasted Brussels sprouts, crispy smashed fingerling potatoes, braised tomato meatballs, and fresh salads, including a Shaved Brussels Sprouts salad with blue cheese, walnuts, apple, and bacon. The menu also features mainstay Italian entrees – like chicken parmesan and rigatoni Bolognese – along with several vegetarian options and gluten-free pizza crust and pasta. Little ones can order cheese or pepperoni pizza, a grilled cheese, a slider, or pasta fusilli off of the kids menu and get a free soft drink and side of french fries or fruit all for $7.

Tap & Dough’s Ken Caryl location nails the Colorado vibe: in addition to the indoor gondolas, cozy canvas yurts (for bigger parties), a large patio, and multiple fireplaces invite outdoor dining. The founders also brought their ingenious gaming arcade to Ken Caryl, so parents can sit back and enjoy some peace and quiet, and maybe a Little Italy Manhattan, while kids hone their Pac-Man skills. If you’ve visiting with young kids, pop in early to grab a seat before a line forms out the door.

Need to Know: Homegrown Tap & Dough, 12622 W Ken Caryl Ave, Littleton. Open Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Takeout will also be offered in coming months.