Live Life Lit Different
Discover the Inspiration Behind Lake & Lantern
Our purpose is to create a sanctuary for connection—a place where people can meet, unwind, and build relationships without the influence of alcohol. We aim to offer an inviting space that serves all, celebrates diversity, and nourishes body and soul
This is a moment of transformation, not just for the space, but for our family and community. The Speedtrap has long been a place rooted in connection, and as we reimagine it into the Lake & Lantern Cafe, we are committed to preserving that spirit while infusing it with our unique talents and vision.
This is truly a family endeavor. My son Jordan, a passionate and talented chef, will lead as head chef and manager, bringing his creativity and dedication to every dish. My husband Chris, known for his brilliance in kitchen creation and maintenance, ensures the space operates smoothly and efficiently. My son Jayden, with his warmth and charisma, will be the welcoming face that makes every guest feel at home. And with my background in social entrepreneurship, we’re crafting a cafe that not only serves great food and beverages but also fosters meaningful, substance-free connections in our community.
Our passion for food and hospitality is deeply rooted in my parents. My mama, whose love for the kitchen and hospitality runs deep, has passed that joy down to Jordan and me. You might even be blessed with a visit from her—she’s sure to pop in from time to time, spreading her warmth and love for great food. My daddy, whose lifelong dream was to own a restaurant but never got the chance, inspires us daily. His spirit will be felt in every touch throughout the space, as Jordan and I honor his legacy with our shared passion for good food and service.
For over 15 years, I’ve been blessed to live life lit different, without alcohol—a gift that has transformed not just my life but my family’s as well. We aren’t anti-alcohol, but we are passionate about offering an inclusive space where everyone can experience connection in a new and meaningful way.
While some beloved elements of the Speedtrap will remain, we invite you to reimagine the space with us as we create something fresh and vibrant. With high-speed internet, incredible food, zero-proof beverages, and a welcoming atmosphere, Lake & Lantern Cafe will be a place to gather, share, and enjoy life lit different.
-Kindly,
Racquel Garcia
CEO Lake & Lantern Cafe
Our Core Values
Inclusive Community for All
We are a space for everyone, encouraging connection across backgrounds, experiences, and stories. Our doors are open to all, providing an environment where everyone feels they belong.
Zero-Proof,
Full Flavor
Uncompromising quality. From our carefully crafted drinks to our thoughtfully prepared food, quality is at the heart of everything we do.
Holistic
Well-Being
We prioritize the well-being of our guests and team, creating an environment that supports growth, health, and happiness.
Meet Our Team
Chef Manager
Jordan Garcia
Jordan Garcia, head chef and manager of Lake & Lantern Cafe, brings a rich culinary background and a deep connection to the Palmer Lake community. Raised in Palmer Lake since the age of seven, Jordan’s love for cooking comes from his grandmother’s passion for cooking and hospitality.
Jordan’s culinary training began at Keystone Resort, where he honed his skills in fine dining and precision. His experience as the manager of a ramen restaurant further developed his eye for detail, organization, and culinary excellence. A natural creator, Jordan can often be found in the kitchen late at night experimenting with new recipes, from delectable cookies to inventive dishes, always blessing his family with something delicious to enjoy.
As a single father, Jordan finds inspiration in his young son, Sawyer, and hopes to pass on his love for cooking and good food to the next generation. At Lake & Lantern Cafe, Jordan is excited to bring his expertise and passion to every plate, offering guests a taste of the culinary joy and care that has been a cornerstone of his family for generations.
Cook
Lars Kuhwede
Lars Kuhwede is originally from Woodland Park, Colorado, he followed a non-traditional path that led him to the construction industry for 25 years. However, his true calling as a chef remained in his heart. Inspired by his wife, Tiffany Kuhwede, and her work with Racquel Garcia to create and grow HardBeauty and the HardBeauty Foundation, Lars found the courage to follow his dream.
With Tiffany's encouragement, Lars enrolled in the Culinary Arts Program at Pikes Peak State College, where his dedication and hard work have paid off—he is maintaining a 4.0 GPA and has earned a place on the Dean’s List. As he approaches graduation in 2025, Lars is poised to begin his culinary career at Lake and Lantern Café, turning his lifelong dream into reality.
Outside of the kitchen, Lars has nurtured a deep love for gardening for over a decade. His passion for sustainable, homegrown food continues to grow, with plans to incorporate bees and chickens into his garden in the near future. For Lars, nothing beats the satisfaction of harvesting fresh produce to share with loved ones, enriching his culinary creations with the fruits of his labor.
Cook
Jacob Blackwell
Jacob Blackwell, 29, brings 15 years of restaurant experience, both front and back of house, to Lake & Lantern Cafe. A former Army infantryman, Jacob’s dedication to teamwork and excellence shines through in every aspect of his work. His passion for plating beautiful, intentional dishes stems from a deep sense of pride in creating memorable dining experiences.
What drew Jacob to Lake & Lantern Cafe is the mutual respect he sees among employees and leadership—a culture he’s excited to be part of. Sobriety has been the foundation of Jacob’s recent journey, and he hopes to one day use his love of music to inspire others and help those overcoming addiction and other things.
At Lake & Lantern Cafe, Jacob is committed to crafting food made with care, love, and intention, creating plates that reflect the cafe’s mission to provide a space where life truly is “lit different.”
Meet Our Team
Cook,
Server & Mocktologist
Jayden Garcia
Jayden Garcia is the sous-chef, front-of-the-house server, and zero-proof mixologist at Lake & Lantern Cafe. With his charisma, kindness, and keen attention to customer service, Jayden ensures every guest has a memorable experience. His talent for crafting creative, joy-filled mocktails adds a special touch to the cafe's offerings. Although his future lies in the world of automobiles, Jayden is dedicated to saving for college at his dream school in Arizona, where he plans to turn his passion for cars into a thriving career.
Barista/Mocktologist
& Server
Sarah Sullivan
Hey, I’m Sarah —Texas born, now loving life in Colorado Springs with my fiancé, our three wild and wonderful kids (Laiden, Kane, and Magnolia), and our pack of pups: Gypsy, Roscy, and Stevie.
I fell in love with Colorado back in 2018 when I stayed in Larkspur and visited Palmer Lake—and I knew then it was where I was meant to be.
I run a little cottage bakery out of my home, making sourdough breads and sweet treats that feed both my community and my soul. Baking has been my therapy, my outlet, and a way to stay grounded through life’s chaos.
I love good music, sunshine, and talking to strangers (which is probably why I still love waitressing). Life is a little messy and a lot beautiful, and I’m just over here trying to soak it all in.
Barista & Server
Joy Kitts
Joy Kitts, age 22, combines intelligence, wit, and humor to create meaningful connections with those around her. She loves reading, challenging herself with games, and embracing new experiences. She's a Colorado native and enjoys the scenery and weather Colorado provides.
Her passion for coffee goes beyond the drink itself; it’s about the experience. Joy is dedicated to offering exceptional service, aiming to make every customer feel valued and uplifted, brightening their day through little interactions and providing a welcoming atmosphere!
