Fruita Council considers liquor license for Josephine's restaurant at South Mulberry

In the heart of Fruita, excitement buzzed through the city hall as the Fruita City Council convened on July 1, 2025, to discuss a significant addition to the local dining scene. The council reviewed a new hotel and restaurant liquor license application for Josephine's Fruta LLC, a venture led by local entrepreneurs Jeffrey Snook and Jody Corey. The proposed restaurant, set to open at 169 South Mulberry Street, promises to bring a taste of Italy to the community, featuring a menu rich in Italian cuisine.

City Clerk presented the application, highlighting that all necessary fees had been submitted and that the applicants had undergone thorough background checks, which returned clear results from multiple law enforcement agencies. The council's approval hinges on two primary considerations: the character of the applicants and the needs of the neighborhood. In this case, the neighborhood survey indicated strong community support, with eight signatures in favor and none opposed to the liquor license.

Jeff and Jody, both present at the meeting, expressed their enthusiasm for becoming part of the Fruita community. "We are excited to have this opportunity," Jeff shared, reflecting on their long-standing connection to the area since 2002. They also own a restaurant in nearby Palisade and a boutique motel, emphasizing their commitment to building a reputable establishment in Fruita.

With the state liquor enforcement already approving their application pending local approval, the council was poised to move forward. The recommended motion to approve the liquor license for Josephine's was met with anticipation, signaling a promising new chapter for dining in Fruita. As the meeting concluded, the community looked forward to welcoming this new culinary destination, further enriching the local landscape.