After months of building her menu and catering to a growing clientele, Candice Stanek, owner of Layered Restarurant, has found a permanent home at The Association in downtown Montrose.

The new space, at 39 W. Main St. will serve as a base for her fresh, organic food offerings and bustling catering business.

She joins Storm King Distilling Co., Meat & Gather, Jitter Sweet and Sushi on the Roll (which will return in the spring) as food and drink vendors in the revitalized Potato Growers Building.

Layered Foodie. (Justin Tubbs | MBT)

Stanek, who left a successful corporate banking career to follow her passion for healthy cooking, said her menu focuses on clean ingredients, including organic seasonings, avocado oil, and non-GMO vegetables.

“It’s hard to find quality food without MSG or chemicals, so I put a lot of research into using healthy ingredients,” Stanek said. “But it still tastes good—comforting and filling.”

What began as a plan to operate within The Temple Events space has evolved since last March into a thoughtfully curated menu  with big portions that balances simplicity with flavor. Popular items include a veggie black bean dish, burrata creations, and green chile-inspired options.

Stanek’s catering business also keeps her busy with events like corporate meetings, Christmas parties, birthdays, and weddings.

“I love catering because it lets me be creative and build lasting memories for people,” she said.

The move to The Association has been a positive change. “I love the vibe here,” Stanek said. “There’s coffee, cappuccino, alcohol, and it’s a happy place.”

Looking ahead, Stanek remains open to expanding her operations, though for now, she’s content combining her love of food with her thriving catering business. “I stay happy, and I stay pretty busy,” she said.

Justin Tubbs is the Montrose Business Times editor. He can be reached by email at justin@montrosebusinesstimes.com or by phone at 970-765-0915 or mobile at 254-246-2260.