He quickly learned the ins and outs of managing a bar and realized that the bar and restaurant business could be more than just a job for him, but a career. Stints at Bistro Adde Brewster, Ciao Baby and Cache Cache followed. When the owners of Cache Cache decided to leave the business, it was an opportunity for Clemens and his older brother Markus to make a bold move and follow their vision for a European style restaurant where he could create the warm, social atmosphere he treasures.

Clemens and his family purchased the Cache Cache property in Cherry Creek North in 1994, creating a path for the Georg family to build something special. Clemens excelled at operating and managing a bar and restaurant, brother Markus was an acclaimed Executive Chef in Vail, father Manfred was an established architect and mother Lieselotte was an artist. Together, the family pooled its talents to create and open Chinook Tavern, which became a staple in Cherry Creek North for nearly two decades. The secret to the family’s success is simple.

“We are very cohesive as a family. As a single unit, everybody adds a unique talent to the restaurant. We’re all in our separate corners. Everybody has their own thing – I don’t tell Markus what to cook and he doesn’t tell me what wine to order,” Clemens says with a large smile. “What we’re known for is the warm and fun atmosphere, the great food, the genuine hospitality and pouring over the details as to what makes the bar and the restaurant comfortable. Those are all the things we’ll bring to the new Chinook, better than ever.”

One might expect that having spent more than 30 years in the hospitality business, Clemens would have many entertaining memories. However, when asked to share, he is quick to respond with a pat on the back and a laugh as if he knew the question was coming. “My favorite memory is yet to come – it is going to be opening the new Chinook.”

With regard to pastimes, Clemens states, “I’m a lifelong skier and a terrible golfer, but love to do both when time allows.”