In Jen Zeuner and Anne Kellerâs vision statement for The Hot Tomato at 124 N. Mulberry St. in Fruita, they made it clear that whomever would assume ownership from them would need to retain the essence of the restaurant. Thatâs a community atmosphere, strong work ethic and, of course, making good pizza.
In their eyes, Aaron Knapp was the best person to continue those traditions for the Grand Valley staple.
âI knew the first day I met Aaron that he had more to offer than a lot of people, maybe more than he knew,â Zeuner said. âHe was all-in from the minute he started working here.â
The Hot Tomato in Fruita has a new owner.
The change was announced on the pizzeriaâs Facebook page Thursday morning and in a post on their website. The letter announcing the change was signed by Hot Tomato founders Anne Keller and Jen Zeuner as well as the new owner, Aaron Knapp.
âAaron Knapp, who has been working with us for over six years now, is the proud new owner of The Hot Tomato. We could not be happier with this decision,â the letter reads.
Keller and Zeuner will not be leaving Fruita, the letter explains. The two founded Hot Tomato, 124 N. Mulberry St., in 2005, and are active in the Fruita community. In 2019, the outdoor clothing and apparel company Patagonia featured the two, along with their business.