Jennifer Jasinski: chef and business partner aim for trifecta with Larimer Square restaurant.

• Author: Bronikowski, Lynn
• Position: EXECUTIVE EDGE - Personal account

As Executive Chef Jennifer Jasinski prepares for the biggest dining day of the year--Mother's Day--she's thinking about her own mom, who inspired her to pursue her passion, take risks and open restaurants--even amid an economic downturn.

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"My mom is a businessperson--vice president of Santa Barbara Bank & Trust," said Jasinski, 41, a native of Santa Barbara, Calif., who today is owner and executive chef of Larimer Square dining destinations--Rioja, Bistro Vendome and soon-to-open Euclid Hall Bar and Kitchen. "When I was a kid, she was a microbiologist, a single mom of three, so I know I got my drive from her. Plus, I like to work and am a little crazy, too, which helps in this business."

In July, Jasinski and her business partner, Beth Gruitch, are opening Euclid Hall Bar and Kitchen, specializing in innovative pub food, in the 1883 building that once housed Soapy Smith's bar.

"It's a great creative outlet for us," said Gruitch, 40, who hired Jasinski 10 years ago when she was general manager of Panzano restaurant. They became business partners and ultimately friends who would open restaurants of their own. "It gives us an opportunity to extend beyond the fine-dining realm into something more playful."

Sure, it's a risk to open a restaurant amid a flat economy, but Jasinski and Gruitch are undaunted.

"It's an excellent location, so when opportunities like this come up, you'd be stupid not to take them," said Jasinski, who moved to Denver in 2000 following top chef stints with Wolfgang Puck, whom she calls her mentor and role model. "People are still dining out. We feel good about our product, and there is a need for a creative tavern concept. While Rioja is my dream restaurant, Euclid Hall will be fun."

Both partners are gratified their restaurants create jobs--employing 100 at Rioja and Bistro and 60 more once Euclid Hall opens.

"I feel responsible for everybody who works for me...