Sip, Socialize, and Wag: Plan a Visit to Romero’s K9 Club & Tap House

In search of the perfect spot to unwind with your pup in tow? Look no further than Romero’s K9 Club & Tap House in the heart of Old Town Lafayette.

This unique spot features a cool blend of dog-friendly fun and craft brews—all in a laid-back environment where both you and your furry friends can relax and socialize. No matter if you’re enjoying a pint or letting your dog run around in the dog park, Romero’s is the place to be for anyone who loves a good time and great company—both human and canine.

From Vision to Paws-On Reality: How Romero’s Came to Life

A veteran of the beer industry, the vision for Romero’s came to life around ten years ago when owner, Maria Redondo, and her partner, Lenny Torres, rescued a pooch from the Colorado Puppy Rescue, appropriately named… Romero. The couple was so smitten with their new family member that they started trying to figure out a way to be together all of the time—and spare Romero being alone when they had to head to work.

“We kept talking about this idea of creating a dog park with a bar,” stated Redondo. “One day we were checking out Old Town Lafayette and seeing what types of businesses were present. And it’s then that we saw the perfect spot—we just knew that would be the location.”

From there, the couple set out to make their dream a reality.

A Haven for Fur Parents—and Their Four-Legged Kids

It’s a pretty well known fact that younger generations are having fewer children—or they’re deciding to do the kid-free route altogether. However, those same groups are quick to become fur parents—and there is obviously a challenge to find pet-friendly spots where dogs can roam around off-leash while their moms and dads socialize and have a good time.

Offering a safe and responsible environment—as well as indoor and outdoor seating for patrons 16 and older—this woman-owned business is an ideal spot for pet parents and their pups. The establishment has 33 taps that change almost daily and feature a variety of craft beers and ciders, including IPAs, dark lagers, stouts, and more. In fact, Romero’s was recognized in Craft Beer Drinker Magazine as one of the top 20 craft beer bars in the world. Additionally, Romero’s earned a spot on Greatest American Beer Bar’s 2020 list as the place to visit in Colorado.

“We take pride in the brands we serve at Romero’s and try to highlight makers who give back to their community and have strong values,” said Redondo.

Giving Back to the Community

Ultimately, Romero’s isn’t just about having a barking good time—the establishment is a big supporter of varied causes, including animal and human rights, women’s health, immigrant rights, animal welfare, LGBTQ+ community support, disaster relief, Sister Carmen, and the like. The owners are also passionate about their work within the Latino community, and their dedication to promoting opportunities for underserved populations. 

Romero’s is a community center and the owners are passionate about using the space to bring people together and change lives in both big and small ways.

“We want to spread the love,” noted Redondo.

Hungry for More?

If your appetite goes beyond having something to sip on alone, Romero’s has you covered. While the spot doesn’t have a kitchen on-site, in June 2023, the local food truck Falafayette found a home behind Romero’s building and started opening to serve patrons every Wednesday. The food truck specializes in scratch made hummus bowls and falafel pitas.

“All of their offerings are vegetarian—and they’re food is absolutely delicious.”

Additionally, the Tacos El Chilango food truck makes an appearance every other day with the exception of Wednesdays. The truck is owned by Arturo and Maria–a local couple–and their collaboration with Romero’s is inherently valued.

Mark Your Calendar

While Romero’s is a great spot to hit up anytime, Redondo encourages everyone to mark their calendar for LafaYeti Day on February 6th.  

LafaYeti Day is a funky and fun business holiday that was started by community members to encourage social gatherings and support for local Mom & Pop Shops.

The day was envisioned late one night about seven years ago, and the date of the event (2/6) plays homage to Lafayette’s zip code 80026. While it started off unique to Romero’s alone, today a large number of businesses in Old Town Lafayette participate—so much so that the Lafayette government declared it a holiday.

“We wanted to highlight small businesses—and February can be a hard month business-wise,” commented Redondo. “It’s all about getting people out and having fun.”

Romero’s Lasting Legacy

Sadly, Romero has gone onto The Rainbow Bridge, but his legacy lives on—both in the good works done by the team at Romero’s… and everyone who frequents the establishment with their pup.

Romero’s K9 Club & Tap House is located at 985 South Public Road. You’re invited to learn more about Romero’s… and then stop by!