Standing out amongst the crowd, Cafe V is the only vegetarian-based coffee shop in all of the Western Slope. Café V is located in Menagerie Square off North on 5th street and is open all week, 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. For all the coffee lovers out there, Cafe V is worth a try.

The wide-open space found inside is an appealing study destination for college students. Tables weren’t spaced too close together, and the decor was simple. Along with displaying locally created artwork, the coffee shop and restaurant hosts local musicians every Sunday.

While eating fresh and simple dishes, there was continual warm conversation with partial-owner Ollie, who was also our server. Through chatting with him, it was discovered that Cafe V employs kids from the homeless teen shelter in order to provide them with job training. There’s nothing over six bucks on the menu, although there is a very small selection of dishes to choose from. Cafe V is not recommended for meat-eaters who enjoy a side of bacon with their bacon, but they do have WIFI and good selection of baked goods to snack on.

All in all, Cafe V had a very new feel and elementary approach to the preparation of food, but it tasted good. And by supporting homeless teens, artwork and musicians, Cafe V is creating a stronger and more dynamic community.