Buon Giorno!

Growing up in Northern New Jersey I was one of 5 children. My parents owned a small business and my mother was always busy with the company and taking care of a large family. I helped my mom with the family meals so that no matter how busy we all were we were able to sit down to dinner as a family every night. During these growing up years I was very much influenced by my mom’s Italian heritage and I knew at the early age of 11 that someday I would be a chef and have my own restaurant.

I credit my mother for teaching me to prepare food and cook for others. This has always and still brings me much joy! (The inside of the menu contains pictures of my Italian grandparents.)

I was very fortunate to have a family that taught me so much about food and to show me the meaning of good work ethics. To further my culinary knowledge I attended The Academy of Culinary Arts in Mays Landing, NJ.

In 1994, my wife Traci and I left New Jersey and we ventured to Gunnison, Colorado to open Garlic Mike’s Italian Cuisine. Traci and I run the restaurant in Gunnison. Traci works behind the scenes managing the finances.
Traci, Brady and I all believe that paying attention to details is very important. Everyone involved our business knows that we strive for the very best. Our staff is like our family. Many of whom have been with us for years.

While I enjoy cooking, I also do cooking classes. Find out more by going to our website. You can also see me featured in chef guest segments cooking on Denver's CW 2 morning show and on NBC 11 in Grand Junction.

We hope you enjoy your visit to Garlic Mike’s and we appreciate your business and a special thank you to our many, many long time loyal customers who have become part of our family.

Grazie and Buon Apetito!
Michael and Traci Busse
and the Garlic Mike’s Family