CM resident helps open new Garden of the Gods eatery

Garden of the Gods guests now have healthier dining options, thanks to a new spot that opened up this month.

The Bean Sprouts Café opened March 12 inside the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center, 1805 N. 30th St. Co-founded by Cheyenne Mountain resident Kelly Parthen, whose children attend Broadmoor Elementary School and Cheyenne Mountain Junior High, and her business partner, Shannon Seip, Bean Sprouts has been recognized multiple times as a “Top 100 Mover & Shaker” in the restaurant industry by Fast Casual Magazine. Bean Sprouts plants its cafés inside family destinations like museums, science centers and tourist attractions, where there is a rising demand for healthier choices.

“It is always exciting to open a new Bean Sprouts,” Parthen said. “We now have 12 locations in seven states, but this one is really special as it’s in my own backyard.”

Café guests will be delighted with a menu of fresh salads, hot and cold sandwiches, pizzas and a gourmet coffee bar. Offerings also include a variety of choices for families with picky eaters, allergies, and other dietary challenges.

“Colorado Springs is such a healthy, active community, and Bean Sprouts fits right in with the lifestyle here and the mission of the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center,” Parthen said.

Bean Sprouts’ “Imaginibbles” children’s menu, presented at a lower counter, empowers kids to make their own healthy choices.

Bean Sprouts adheres to strict ingredient guidelines and features organic and sustainable foods, compostable packaging, and eco-friendly design.

Purchases made at Bean Sprouts help maintain Garden of the Gods Park through the Garden of the Gods Foundation.

Parthen and Seip are often called upon as experts in making healthy food fun, having shared their playful and innovative approach at the White House and with many major media outlets. The pair also regularly speak at industry conferences nationwide.

The Visitor and Nature Center sits across from the entrance of Garden of the Gods Park and attracts over one million visitors annually.

“With our focus on nature and education, aligning ourselves with Bean Sprouts made perfect sense. From their healthy and allergy-friendly menu to their eco-friendly and sustainable practices, Bean Sprouts is a natural addition to the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center,” said Jan Martin, president of the Garden of the Gods Foundation.

“We look forward to not only serving the many tourists who visit, but also local residents who we hope will grab a bite or coffee and enjoy one of the best views in our city.”

Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center is free and open to the public.

Two exhibit halls incorporate cutting-edge museum technology. The complex geology, ecology, and cultural history of the Park come to life through the hands-on interactive exhibits.

The Visitor Center offers free park maps, visitor information, an exciting 12-minute movie, a café and gift shop, guided nature walks and interpretive presentations.

There are many outdoor recreational activities available, including guided Jeep, Segway, 1909 Trolley tours, rock climbing excursions, bike rentals and guided eBike tours offered at the Center.

For more information on the new cafe, visit beansprouts.com or contact info@beansprouts.com.