Most Coloradans might not be able to pinpoint Hudson on a map, but mention The Pepper Pod, and they light up. More than just a place to eat, The Pepper Pod, known to locals as merely The Pod – is a pillar of Weld County and directions to the restaurant often come with stories of celebrations, business deals, and memories created around tables filled with homestyle meals.
For over 110 years, The Pepper Pod stands resilient, weathering every storm. Generations of families have passed through its doors, each leaving a piece of their story behind. Even during COVID, The Pod was there to support the community, and the community refused to the let them close their doors. While the world came to a halt, The Pepper Pod adapted, selling essentials and meals to meet the community’s needs. It also became a gathering place where people could enjoy “socially distanced” dinners in the parking lot, finding comfort in community and the spirit of rural Colorado.
Amy Jackson, the daughter of the owners and the head chef, embodies the restaurant’s evolution while honoring its traditions. Trained in New York’s culinary arts, she brings her own flair to the kitchen while preserving cherished recipes passed down through generations. Her passion for food and community is evident in every dish that leaves the kitchen, blending heritage with innovation.
Amy’s love for Weld County runs deeper than its stunning prairie landscapes. What she cherishes most is the undeniable sense of community. “There are no strangers in Weld County,” she says. “There is an invisible string that connects us all.” Even if you don’t know someone personally, you can feel that bond, the unspoken connection that makes this place feel like home…