A Strong Longmont for All

Tag: Local Businesses

  • Chi Kapé: Caribbean and Central American Comfort in the Heart of Longmont

    Chi Kapé is the kind of small, heart-forward business that defines what makes Longmont unique. Tucked just behind the 7‑Eleven at Main & 17th, the café’s new address—1680 Main St., Longmont—welcomes guests with warmth, color, and the aroma of freshly pulled espresso.


    What stands out first is the story. Owner Esly pours her heritage and heart into everything here, bringing Caribbean and Central American comfort food to Colorado with care and intention. That spirit shows up in the details: a silky-smooth Cuban coffee with balanced sweetness and depth; a classic Cuban sandwich layered with slow-roasted pork, ham, Swiss, and tangy mustard-pickle bite; and the Wa’iim Bowl—a craveable combo that delivers savory satisfaction and a taste of home for anyone missing island and Central American flavors.


    Quality is more than a promise, it’s a practice. You can taste Esly’s standards in the brightness of the espresso, the tenderness of the pork, and the fresh toppings that make each dish sing. The experience moved me; between the food and Esly’s journey, lunch turned into a moment of connection.


    Beyond the menu, Chi Kapé doubles as a small marketplace for distinctive, thoughtful gifts. Handcrafted items, coffee beans, and goods that reflect the café’s roots and community ties. It’s a perfect stop when a meaningful, one-of-a-kind present is needed.


    If the question is where to find authentic, comforting Caribbean and Central American flavors in Longmont, Chi Kapé is the answer. It’s a local gem built on skill, story, and love for this community.


    • Address: 1680 Main St., Longmont, CO (behind the 7‑Eleven at Main & 17th)
    • What to try: Cuban coffee, Cuban sandwich, Wa’iim Bowl
    • Bonus: Unique gifts and artisan items inside the shop

  • Reflections from Left Hand Pints & Perspectives: Let’s Keep the Conversation Going!


    I’ve had the pleasure of attending every Left Hand Pints & Perspectives event (I will miss my first one on Aug 7th) , and each session leaves me even more grateful for the passionate, thoughtful community we have here in Longmont. Our most recent discussion was no exception, drawing in new faces and sparking lively conversation about the challenges and opportunities shaping our city’s future.


    Recap of the Latest Discussion
    This month’s topic focused on growth—and more specifically, the employment imbalance in Longmont. Thanks to excellent speakers and honest audience input, several key points emerged:
    • Housing is outpacing job creation: Longmont’s rapid housing growth means more residents are calling our city home, but local job opportunities haven’t kept up. As a result, more people are commuting out of town for work—impacting both our local economy and quality of life.
    • Affordability concerns persist: With low vacancy rates and a shortage of starter homes and senior housing, finding affordable options remains a serious challenge for families and longtime residents alike.
    • Community voices matter: One thing is clear—diverse perspectives are essential as we work toward balanced, sustainable growth that keeps Longmont vibrant for everyone.


    What stood out most to me was the energy in the room and the respect everyone showed for their neighbors’ ideas. Whether you’re a candidate, a longtime resident, or new to town, these honest conversations are how we move forward together.


    My Commitment to You
    Whenever I’m at the table, whether it’s as a board chair, council member, or simply your neighbor, you have my promise: I’ll always be present, engaged, and listening. Our city deserves leaders who give their full attention to the issues and to you, the people of Longmont.


    Join Us at the Next Pints & Perspectives
    If you haven’t yet made it to a Pints & Perspectives evening, I encourage you to check it out! It’s a relaxed, welcoming space to meet neighbors, learn from community experts, and share your voice on the big issues facing Longmont. Your input truly makes these gatherings meaningful.
    Let’s keep our attention where it counts—on each other, and on building a Strong Longmont for All.


    I hope to see you at the next discussion!

    — Alex
    alexforlongmont.com

    StrongLongmontForAll #Longmont #Community #Growth #CivicEngagement #PintsAndPerspectives

  • Local Gem: Pelo’s Deli & Provisions

    Yesterday, I had the pleasure of enjoying one of the best pastrami sandwiches I’ve had in a very long time at Pelo’s Deli & Provisions. As someone who grew up in Miami Beach, finding a great pastrami sandwich in the Front Range has been a challenge—until now! I went with my friend Andy and he had a Chicago beef sandwich which was also well enjoyed.

    Pastrami Sandwich from Pelo's

    I also had the opportunity to speak with Kim, the owner, and congratulate her on creating a community space for Longmont. Pelo’s isn’t just a deli; it’s a great third place that will be open late for Longmont residents/visitors that want to enjoy the city after other places close down for the evening.

    Kim shared how challenging the city permit process was during her journey to open Pelo’s. As a candidate for Longmont City Council, I’m committed to supporting local businesses like Pelo’s by working to streamline city processes and reduce unnecessary delays for entrepreneurs. These small businesses are the backbone of our local economy and contribute significantly to Longmont’s unique character.

    I loved Pelo’s so much that I went back later with my wife, Emily and friend, Tony, to share this new establishment. Thank you, Kim, for persevering and bringing such a fantastic space to Longmont!

    It’s exciting to see new establishments like Pelo’s Deli open in our city, and I encourage everyone to explore the great local spots that make Longmont so unique.

  • Connecting with Longmont’s Business Community

    This week, I had the pleasure of attending the Longmont Chamber’s Business After Hours event at Adams Bank & Trust. The disco-themed gathering brought together a diverse group of local business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community advocates, showcasing the vibrant business ecosystem that makes Longmont special.

    Throughout the evening, I engaged with representatives from various sectors including marketing professionals, financial advisors, local non-profits, and creative entrepreneurs. These conversations reinforced my understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our business community.

    As someone committed to building a Strong Longmont For All, these networking events are invaluable for understanding the needs of our local business community. The energy and collaborative spirit displayed at events like these demonstrate why Longmont continues to be an attractive destination for businesses and families alike.
    I look forward to continuing these important conversations about Longmont’s future with our business community and residents alike. Together, we can ensure Longmont remains a thriving city for businesses of all sizes.

    Visit www.AlexForLongmont.com to learn more about my vision for our city’s future.