A longtime Wheat Ridge staple, Apple Ridge Café, has implemented a new rule prohibiting unsupervised middle and high school students after a recent wave of disruptive behavior, according to FOX31.
Located at Kipling Street and West 38th Avenue, the beloved café has served the community for more than 40 years, known for its hearty breakfasts and small-town charm. But in recent months, co-owner Scotty Jones said the restaurant has experienced multiple issues involving local teens — including theft, disrespect toward staff, and customers walking out without paying. The café has now posted signs on its doors and social media accounts announcing that minors must be accompanied by an adult to dine in.
Jones said the decision was not made lightly, calling it “disheartening” to have to impose restrictions because of a few bad actors. The owners have since met with school resource officers from nearby middle and high schools to address the problem and are encouraging parents to step in and talk with their kids about accountability.
Despite the challenges, regulars say they support the move, hoping it will restore the café’s relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. “It’s unfortunate that a handful of teens ruined it for everyone,” one longtime customer said.
The Wheat Ridge Police Department confirmed they are in contact with the café’s owners and working to identify those responsible for the recent disturbances. Jones emphasized that this isn’t about punishment — it’s about protecting staff, customers, and the sense of community that Apple Ridge Café has built over the past four decades.
