Reviews
Vail-Beaver Creek Magazine Holiday 2009 Issue
Doug Abel at Juniper Restaurant
Carving out a niche as a master of fine dining just down the road is Douglas Abel at Juniper Restaurant, located along the Eagle River in Riverwalk at Edwards. Abel, with his business partner, Kirby Kelly, and Executive Chef Todd Bullis, says he brought his dream for a new restaurant to Edwards in 2002 based on a proven model. "Basically, I wanted a downvalley Sweet Basil, from the minute you walk in the door all the way through the dining experience," says Abel, referring to Vail's famed fine dining establishment. "There was great opportunity for that here in Edwards." Watching Abel work is to witness a master, indeed. Though Juniper is open nightly for dinner only, he arrives early in the afternoon, enlivening the place with motivational pats on the backs and helpful observations for the staff. Nothing escapes his attention, from the wine selection to the linen tablecloths to the lighting throughout the main dining room and newly enclosed patio overlooking the Eagle River. "I really like what I do, and I think that shows," Abel says. "I just love being here."
Holiday 2004/2005
Vail Valley restaurateur Doug Abel learned plenty about wine. He also gained a new appreciation for the formula that has brought Oregon's
pinot noirs and Edwards' Juniper restaurant such remarkable success.
