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The Pepper Pod History

The Pepper Pod is currently celebrating 108 years in business! 1913-2021

The Pepper Pod, built in 1913 by the Peppers family, began as a modest cafe on old Main Street in Hudson. Soon, however, flourishing business necessitated a larger building, so one was built next to Highway 6 where business thrived, making it a landmark on the plains northeast of Denver. In 1956, our present building was constructed near the new interstate 80 (now I-76). Mr. Peppers son-in-law, Bill Howard, operated the “Oasis on the Plains” into the 70’s. Dave & Beth bought the Pod in 1977, and decided to “Never rest on our reputation, but keep building one.” We began serving buffalo year round, a concept started due to the beef shortages of World War II. In fact, the beautiful bison heads decorating our main dining room are relics from the herd which grazed behind the Pod for many years. We no longer keep bison on the menu but feature it on special from time to time.

In 2005, our daughter Amy graduated from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY & has now joined our operation. You will notice her influence, as we continue to strive to bring you the freshest & highest quality foods available, prepared when you order. Amy brings fresh ideas & expertise to the Pod that you will find in new specials, & menu offerings. However, having grown up here, she treasures our foundation in tradition, so you still won’t need a degree in Chemistry to understand our list of ingredients. Dave still selects well-marbled beef, ages it in our facilities, and cuts it fresh daily. Our salad dressings, soups, breads, gravies, etc., are all made from scratch, with many recipes created over 100 years ago.

We aren’t fancy, because people need more than that from us, and we’ve been pleasing people for over 105 years. So sit up straight, don’t talk with your mouth full, and by all means, leave room for dessert.

Thank you for joining us,
Dave, Beth, Amy, Rachel & Vivian

Management Team