Blue Sky Cafe and Juice Bar

Located on West Colfax Avenue in Lakewood, Blue Sky Cafe and Juice Bar operates as a bustling daytime eatery, consistently drawing crowds for its breakfast, brunch, and lunch service. Open daily from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM, it has established a reputation for its extensive menu, which caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, and for a generally positive and relaxed atmosphere. However, prospective diners should be aware of both its celebrated strengths and noted weaknesses to form a complete picture of the experience.

The Culinary Offerings: More Than Just a Cafe

The establishment's menu is a significant point of praise among its patrons. The food is frequently described as flavorful, well-prepared, and thoughtful. Breakfast and brunch are particularly popular, with dishes like skillets, breakfast burritos, and a variety of Eggs Benedict receiving high marks. Regulars and first-time visitors alike often mention the quality of staples; pancakes are described as fluffy, bacon as crisp, and eggs cooked to perfection. The kitchen also pays attention to small details that elevate the meal, such as serving butter soft and syrup warm, and accommodating requests to split entrees onto separate plates before they leave the kitchen.

One of the most prominent features of Blue Sky Cafe is its extensive accommodation for dietary needs, particularly for those requiring gluten-free options. The menu is replete with choices, and many standard items can be made gluten-free. This isn't a case of simply offering a single, uninspired substitute; customers have specifically praised the quality of the gluten-free bread and pancakes, indicating a genuine commitment to providing palatable alternatives. The cafe's website and menu proudly state their dedication to using fresh, natural ingredients, including meats without nitrates or hormones and healthy cooking oils like olive oil. This focus extends to their vegetarian and vegan clientele, who can substitute tofu in many egg-based dishes, though some vegan diners have noted that the on-site menu can sometimes feel more limited than what is advertised online.

The Juice and Smoothie Bar

True to its name, Blue Sky Cafe features a robust juice bar that complements its food offerings. The menu includes a variety of healthy smoothies and fresh-pressed juices designed to cater to health-conscious consumers. Smoothie options range from fruit-centric blends like the "Ocean Breeze" (strawberries, pineapple, banana, apple juice) to greener choices like the "Super Green" (spinach, pineapple, banana, apple juice). For those seeking a caffeine kick, the "Flying Elvis" combines espresso with chocolate, peanut butter, and banana. The juice selection is equally diverse, with combinations such as Beet Carrot Apple Lemon Ginger and Kale Spinach Apple Carrot. While the menu doesn't explicitly advertise juice cleanses or specific detox juices, the array of fresh ingredients provides ample choice for customers looking for a nutrient-dense beverage to accompany their meal or as a standalone refreshment.

The Customer Experience: Service and Atmosphere

The service at Blue Sky Cafe generally receives positive feedback. Staff are often described as friendly and attentive, contributing to a quick and efficient dining experience even during busy periods. Some patrons have shared stories of exceptional hospitality, such as a first-time visitor being treated to a complimentary sweet potato pecan pancake by one of the owners. These gestures contribute to a welcoming environment that encourages repeat business.

The atmosphere is characterized as relaxed but not overly loud, making it a comfortable spot for a casual meal. The interior is noted for its cleanliness, a detail that extends to the restrooms. A unique aspect of the business is its transformation into a yoga studio in the evenings, a feature that speaks to its community and wellness focus, though this operates separately from the cafe's daytime hours. However, the physical space is not without its challenges. The cafe is popular, and waits are common, especially on weekends. A significant drawback is the lack of an indoor waiting area. This forces patrons to wait outside or in their cars, which can be inconvenient during inclement weather. To mitigate this, the cafe offers an online waitlist system, allowing customers to add their name remotely and reduce on-site waiting time. Additionally, some seating is considered less than ideal, with reports of small tables situated in awkward locations, such as next to a pillar.

Points of Contention and Areas for Improvement

Despite the high volume of positive reviews, a critical incident reported by a customer raises serious concerns about staff communication and food safety protocols. A pregnant diner ordered the Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict and, upon its arrival, was concerned that the salmon was raw. When she raised this issue, she received conflicting information. The server initially took the dish back but returned to state the cooks insisted it was cooked. The manager then came to the table to provide further reassurance. However, the dish still appeared raw to the customer. The situation became more confusing when the server showed a photo of the product's packaging, which did not confirm it was cooked, and the hostess later admitted the fish was, in fact, uncooked. This experience of being told contradictory information by multiple staff members was unsettling and potentially dangerous for a customer with specific dietary restrictions related to pregnancy.

This incident highlights a critical area for improvement. While the cafe is adept at handling common dietary requests like gluten-free modifications, this experience suggests a potential gap in knowledge or communication regarding less frequent but equally important food safety issues. For any restaurant, ensuring all staff—from the kitchen to the front of house—are aligned and accurately informed about how ingredients are prepared is paramount. For potential customers with severe allergies, dietary restrictions, or health conditions, this report serves as a caution to be diligent and explicit in communicating their needs and to press for clear, consistent answers.

Blue Sky Cafe and Juice Bar is, by most accounts, a successful and well-regarded establishment in Lakewood. Its strengths are clear: a diverse and flavorful menu, a strong commitment to fresh ingredients, and exceptional accommodations for gluten-free diners. The bustling atmosphere, coupled with generally friendly service and the convenience of an online waitlist, makes it a go-to spot for breakfast and brunch enthusiasts. The integrated juice bar adds another layer of appeal for those seeking healthy beverage options.

However, the business is not without its flaws. The physical constraints of the building lead to unavoidable waits and a lack of comfortable waiting space. More importantly, the documented failure in communication regarding food preparation is a significant issue that cannot be overlooked. While it may be an isolated incident, it underscores the need for rigorous staff training and clear internal communication. Potential customers should weigh these factors. For a casual brunch with friends, it remains an excellent choice. But for those with critical dietary needs, it is advisable to communicate clearly and confirm details with the staff to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.