5280 Magazine October 2023

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Contents

64 25 Best Restaurants

The Michelin Guide may have landed on the Front Range in 2023, but local chefs don’t need stars to prove their worth. The innovative dishes coming out of kitchens across Denver and beyond are all the evidence we need to say that the Mile High City is a culinary force.

BY PATRICIA KAOWTHUMRONG & ETHAN PAN

78 Young Guns

What’s behind the proliferation of firearms among adolescents in the Mile High City—and is there anything anyone can do about it?

BY CHRIS WALKER

92 Fresh Take

Color and curves give a lively twist to a Hilltop home’s classic design details.

BY CHRISTINE DEORIO

100 The Queen Of Comedy

Industry insiders say Comedy Works is one of the best clubs in the country. That’s because longtime owner Wende Curtis has made a career out of taking a laughing matter very seriously.

BY L. WAYNE HICKS

David Williams; Tiaja Pierre (hair, makeup, and wardrobe styling)

In the realm of Denver comedy, Wende Curtis owns the throne.

Bring your curiosity.

When you walk through our doors, bring an idea. A dream. A vision. Our showroom is designed to inspire you with on-site chefs, product experts, and exclusive events - all so you can fully experience everything your kitchen can be.

FROM THE EDITOR

14 The professional diners behind this year’s best restaurants list.

COMPASS

17 SPORTS

The Denver Nuggets won the NBA title. So what do we do now? Plus: Bandimere Speedway crosses the finish line.

20 ADVENTURE

Get the best view of this month’s annular eclipse at Mesa Verde National Park.

22 MEET THE MAKER

Katie Leigh Jackson’s original wallpaper designs bring the outdoors inside.

24 DESIGN

Time travel to a groovy 1970s house party at Shinesty’s new Highland headquarters.

26 BIG PICTURE

Camp Hale, southeast of Minturn, prepares for life as a national monument.

28 STUFF WE LOVE

Fancy a home decor refresh this fall? Add organic movement to any space with pieces that showcase undulating forms.

ACT LIKE A LOCAL

38 REVIEW

160 THE OVERSIMPLIFIED GUIDE TO: TELLING

A SCARY STORY

Five tips that will have your audience screaming loud enough to wake the dead.

110 DINING GUIDE

COLUMNS

42 MENTAL HEALTH

What has 32 teeth and counts them dozens of times a day? A Denver comedian with OCD.

BY ADAM CAYTON-HOLLAND

ON THE COVER

Clockwise from top left: Seth K. Hughes; RJ Sangosti/MediaNews Group/the Denver Post via Getty Images; Courtesy of Modern Magic; Courtesy of Ambrosia Glass Art

Photograph by Matt Nager

We CU as more than a patient.

U. It’s not just a letter in our name. It’s what we’re all about. Because at CU Medicine, we CU as our #1 priority. We CU from every perspective with experts at every level. We CU, hear you and treat you with compassion and care. Because no matter what you come to see us for, we CU as the whole reason we’re here.

Find a provider near you at CUmedicine.us/5280

DEPUTY EDITOR Jessica LaRusso

SENIOR STAFF WRITER

Robert Sanchez

FEATURES EDITOR Spencer Campbell

HOME EDITOR Michelle Johnson

SENIOR EDITOR Nicholas Hunt FOOD EDITOR

Patricia Kaowthumrong

SENIOR ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Jessica Giles

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Chris Walker

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Barbara O’Neil

ASSISTANT FOOD EDITOR

Ethan Pan

RESEARCH EDITOR

Visvajit Sriramrajan

COPY EDITORS

Shannon Carroll, Dougald MacDonald

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kelly Bastone, Laura Beausire, Christine DeOrio, Clay Fong, Courtney Holden, Sarah Kuta, Elisabeth Kwak-Hefferan, Jenny McCoy, Allyson Reedy, Meredith Sell, Daliah Singer, Martin J. Smith, Andy Stein

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Kinzey Gill, Anders J. Horjus, Cora E. LaRusso, Brock Muñoz

DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO EDITOR

Charli Ornett

DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR

Sean Parsons

DEPUTY PHOTO EDITOR

Sarah Banks

CONTRIBUTING ART DIRECTOR

Dana Pritts Smith

CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS

Jess Blackwell, Kimberly Gavin, Alex Green, Beth Johnston, Simone Massoni, Matt Nager, Tiaja Pierre, The Heads of State, Tilda Rose, Natalie Warady, David Williams

YOU

ADVERTISING & MARKETING

CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER

Camille Hammond

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Ari Ben

MARKETING DIRECTOR

Piniel Simegn

SENIOR ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Molly Duran, Angie Lund

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

FOREVER

Heather Lowe, Kara Noone

ADVERTISING & MARKETING COORDINATOR

Tamara Curry

MARKETING COORDINATOR

Grace Thomas

BRAND SERVICES

CHIEF BRAND OFFICER

Carly Lambert

PRINT OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Megan Skolak

CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER

Chelsea Conrad

DIGITAL OPERATIONS MANAGER

Shundra Jackson

SENIOR GRAPHIC & UI DESIGNER

Caitlin Brooks

AUDIENCE GROWTH COORDINATOR

Greta Kotova

P RODUCTION COORDINATOR

Alyssa Chutka

NEWS STAND CONSULTANT

Alan Centofante

CIRCULATION CONSULTANTS

Meg Clark, Greg Wolfe

ADMINISTRATION

HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR

Derek Noyes

OFFICE MANAGER

Todd A. Black

BILLING & COLLECTIONS MANAGER

Jessica McHeard

Experience the authentic flavors of Italy like never before at Lo Stella Ristorante !

Indulge in the exquisite taste of Cacio Pepe, served directly from a wheel of Pecorino Cheese. Savor the true essence of Bolognese sauce, straight from the heart of Bologna.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR & DINING GUIDE

Letters to the editor must include your name, address, and a daytime phone number (all of which can be withheld from publication upon request). Letters may be submitted via regular mail or email (letters@5280.com). To have a restaurant considered for our Dining Guide, contact us by phone or email (dining@5280.com) to receive a submission form. We also encourage you to contact us if your experience at a restaurant differs significantly from our listing. Information for this section should be subm itted at least six weeks before the issue’s cover date.

WRITER’S GUIDELINES

Writer’s guidelines can be found online at 5280.com/writers-guidelines. To suggest a story idea, email us at news@5280.com.

ADVERTISING

5280 offers businesses the most costeffective way to reach Denver’s upscale consumers. Information about advertising is available on the web at 5280.com/ advertising. Call 303-832-5280 to request a printed media kit.

SPONSORSHIPS

With a legacy spanning over 175 years, Lo Stella Ristorante in Portofino, Italy has delighted generations with its time-honored, family-owned recipes. Now, for nearly a decade, The Golden Triangle in Denver has been privileged to host the second location of this historic Italian gem, masterfully guided by Alessandro Polo, an 8th generation family steward.

5280 actively supports organizations that make our city a better place to live and work. Submit sponsorship proposals to Piniel Simegn, marketing director, at sponsorship@5280.com.

What’s Your Number?

Each year, when 5280 ’s dining team sends me its list of the best 25 restaurants in Denver, I play a little game. Scanning the feature, I see how many of the eateries I’ve been to, hoping my percentage is higher than the previous year. In 2022, I congratulated myself for having been to 80 percent of the spots on the list. This year, I’ve only been to 56 percent of the dining rooms that food editor Patricia Kaowthumrong and assistant food editor Ethan Pan worked so diligently to select. Although I do hate to lose to myself, the prospect of planning culinary outings to 11 new-to-me restaurants is what makes reading this annual roundup so exciting. It’s also a reminder of how diffuse the local dining scene has become in recent years. No longer are the most talked-about, most acclaimed foodie destinations located in downtown Denver or Cherry Creek or Boulder. Instead, I’ll be making reservations in Aurora, Lone Tree, Arvada, and Lyons. The diverse portfolio is a testament to the hard work so many entrepreneurs have put into both opening new restaurants and reinventing menus that keep Denverites returning to long-standing businesses again and again. This year’s list is also proof that while Kaowthumrong

and Pan break bread at the region’s trendiest grills, lunchrooms, and cafes, they also seek out deliciousness in less obvious places. The result is a roster of restaurants that celebrates culinary traditions that stretch from Vietnam to Italy to India to West Africa to the Osage Nation.

So, I ask you this: What’s your number? To find out, turn to page 64, where you’ll see this month’s “25 Best Restaurants.” Then pull out your calendar: My guess is you’re going to

need to mark off at least 10 dates to be able to savor all the well-crafted cocktails, inventive appetizers, creative entrées, and to-die-for desserts that you haven’t yet experienced. To that, I say bon appétit!

LINDSEY B. KING Editor lindsey@5280.com

While most features that land in 5280 take weeks and weeks of work, our annual rundown of best restaurants is a year-round process. Patricia Kaowthumrong and Ethan Pan dine out month after month and also specifically dined at more than 70 restaurants across the metro area before narrowing down the list to a final 25. “We assembled this roster with close regard for culinary innovation, mission, price, and diversity, among other factors,” Kaowthumrong says. In 2023, the dining duo are eager to recommend eateries in Lakewood and Arvada for the first time, something Kaowthumrong says is “further proof that the best restaurants don’t have to be located in Denver proper.” Kaowthumrong and Pan are both thrilled that this year’s list further represents the cuisines of the city as a whole and excited about the future of dining in metro Denver. “I’ve lived here my whole life,” Kaowthumrong says, “and am blown away by how much the food scene has grown, particularly in the past few years. It’s a delicious time to live on the Front Range.”

CORRECTIONS

In August’s “Evolutionary Oncology,” we wrote that Lutheran Medical Center would offer 3D mammography for the first time; it has offered it since 2017. In September’s “Force Of Nature,” we reported that Washington state’s office of outdoor recreation nearly closed during the pandemic; it was Oregon’s office. We regret the errors.

From top: Matt Nager; Arthur Mount (2)

PATRICIA KAOWTHUMRONG & ETHAN PAN

Food editor and assistant food editor

^ Tacos from Cantina Loca, one of this year’s best restaurants

A visit to Rare Finds is nothing short of a treasure hunt that brings the world to you.

From carved consoles and benches to high-quality upholstered and top grain leather sofas and chairs, lighting, architectural elements, unique accents and accessories for every space in your home—a visit to Rare Finds engages your senses and your imagination. We follow design trends, visit trade shows around the world, and listen to our customers, whether they are furnishing a house in town or a mountain getaway. Our pieces are handpicked to reflect the kind of ease and individuality that makes Rare Finds Denver’s go-to location for unique furnishings. We especially enjoy seeing how our customers incorporate their rare finds into their everyday living and working spaces.

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: DENVER AND HIGHLANDS RANCH

Always The Underdog

For as long as I can remember, the Denver Nuggets have been an afterthought. In the NBA, teams like the Los Angeles Lakers hoarded all the attention— just because they were, you know, successful. Here in Denver, the Broncos reigned supreme. Heck, even in the Nuggets’ own arena, the Colorado Avalanche have hung more banners in the rafters.

So, ever since the team won its first championship in June, I’ve found myself in a bizarro world: The Nuggets are the center of the NBA universe and Denver’s sports culture. As a fan since the ’90s—when Antonio McDyess’ turnaround jump shot was the only thing worth rooting for—I am thrilled by the

reversal, but this (hopefully) new normal has also led me into an existential crisis—how will the success we’ve craved for so long reshape what it means to be a Nuggets fan?

Jamal Murray threes, Nikola Jokić dimes, and Aaron Gordon dunks have already become formative sports experiences for transplants and kids in the Mile High City. Now that the Nuggets have finally done the damn thing, new fans won’t see their team as a long-suffering also-ran, at least for a while. But simply hanging a banner at Ball Arena isn’t enough to erase the scars borne by longtime supporters like me who suffered through humiliation (11 wins in the 1997-’98 season) after humiliation (a collapse to the Lakers in the 2009 Western Conference Finals) after humiliation (Nikoloz Tskitishvili). The gulf between the two fandoms—Before Jokić and After Jokić—might become so great that fans will need to identify ourselves based on which subgroup we belong to. It’s not just that number 15 is the most Christlike Denver athlete I’ve ever witnessed; it’s that the delineation will help the fanbase understand itself. New supporters can dismiss the pessimism of their elders as a form of PTSD, but longtime fans will know optimism only means you haven’t been let down yet.

Some say we should stop acting like a jealous middle child when pundits continue to ignore Jokić’s greatness to spend five hours dissecting LeBron James’ latest attention grab or when other teams’ fans inevitably take over Ball Arena. Forget that. We’ve endured too much heartbreak and too many slights to be deferential when we finally can’t be dismissed. When Lakers fans invade Ball Arena on October 24 for the season opener, I am not going to miss my chance to flaunt my championship gear and engage in some good-natured heckling.

The long-term changes are less clear, but they could be even more drastic. With the Nuggets’ core under contract until at least 2025, there’s a chance even lifelong supporters will become what we hate—namely, Golden State Warriors fans whose team was a laughingstock for decades until Steph Curry came along. Now they’re no better than LA Lakers bandwagoners: smug, entitled, and celebrity-hungry. But I hope not. That #NuggLife—a hashtag created to sum up what it means to take pride in a team that always comes up short—is central to the fan base’s identity. Plus, embracing our role as lovable losers will make every championship that follows taste (nearly) as sweet as the first. —SHANE

THE THUNDER ROLLS ON

After 65 years of photo finishes, Morrison’s Bandimere Speedway is closing this month as its owners seek to build a larger facility near DIA. To give the famed drag strip a proper victory lap, we asked eight-time Bandimere champ John Force, 74, for a trifecta of Thunder Mountain memories.

—CHRIS WALKER

1980

The first time Force raced at Bandimere, a snowstorm hit the Front Range. Being a young, broke driver from sunny California, he wasn’t prepared for the severe weather. “I was like, What am I gonna do? I’m going to starve to death!” Force says. He didn’t need to worry: The Bandimere family let Force and his crew crash in their basement. “That’s just the kind of people they are.”

1998

Force became the first driver to hit 300 mph at the track, an exceptional feat at elevation, where lower oxygen levels sap engine power. “To go up there and win that mountain, that’s a bitch,” Force says. “You gotta go in there with a whole different motor combination and everything.”

2023

On July 15, his daughter, Brittany Force, set the track speed record at Bandimere with a 337.33 mph run. “To watch your kid set records in a place you love,” he says, “it just means all that much more.”

From left: Kyle Terada-Pool/Getty Images; Andy Cross/MediaNews Group/the Denver Post via Getty Images

Nikola Jokić grabs a rebound during Game 5 of the 2023 NBA Finals.

Shadow Land

On October 14, an annular solar eclipse will pass over the Four Corners region, treating Mesa Verde National Park to epic planetary pyrotechnics. Befitting its status as one of only 116 International Dark Sky Parks, the World Heritage Site has spent the past year preparing for when the stars, er, star aligns.

O’NEIL

1 Crowd Control

Mesa Verde expects the celestial showcase to draw hundreds of additional visitors to the park, so ranger Eric Sainio suggests arriving at least an hour before the eclipse’s 10:30 a.m. peak. The event will begin around 9 a.m. and last until noon. The centrally located Mesa Verde Museum will likely be the busiest spot, but rangers have set up several viewing stations, including one specifically for latecomers at Morefield Campground near the park entrance.

2

Points Of Views

Solar-filtering glasses typically skyrocket in price—or even sell out—in the weeks leading up to an eclipse. (Fakes can also

lead to sun-damaged eyes; visit the American Astronomical Society’s website for a list of reputable vendors.) But parkgoers shouldn’t stress if they can’t snag a pair, Sainio says, because NASA is providing protective specs for Mesa Verde to hand out. “We’ll also be mounting a safe, Mylar film on top of these tentlike structures,” he says, “so if someone doesn’t have eclipse glasses, they can just look straight up at the sun.”

3 Visiting Professors

Unlike total eclipses, annular eclipses create a fiery ring because the moon is too far from the Earth to completely block the sun. To help guests better understand the physics, Mesa Verde is

hosting six scientists from NASA who’ll fan out across the park to interact directly with visitors. So crack open your old textbooks and prepare your Ph.D.-level questions ahead of time.

4 Closed Quarters

Mesa Verde’s staff and rangers have preemptively canceled tours of the park’s iconic cliff dwellings that morning in order to focus on managing traffic and answering questions. “If people are expecting to see the eclipse from inside a cliff dwelling, we just won’t be able to pull that off,” Sainio says. “Also, Cliff Palace is facing the wrong way, so the only way you’d be able to see it is to look through sheer rock.”

An annular eclipse will pass over the Four Corners region on October 14.

BARBARA

BY ALEX GREEN

Wall Flowers

A Lakewood-based artist’s original wallpaper designs bring the outdoors inside.

BY MEREDITH SELL

As a preteen in the early 2000s, Katie Leigh Jackson painted her bedroom bright yellow and stenciled pink hibiscus flowers all over the walls. “I essentially made my first wallpaper—without the paper,” she says, noting that the DIY decor remained there through her college years at Colorado State University.

Today, Jackson points to that childhood project as an early example of her enduring love for wall art. After losing her job as a marketing director in a pandemic-era layoff, she returned to her creative roots, painting nature-inspired scenes that she began to sell as prints

via her online art business, Modern Magic. Designing wallpaper patterns seemed like a natural way to expand her offerings, so in spring 2022, she took an online surface-pattern design course. That fall, she launched her first three wallpaper collections, each influenced by a specific theme.

Take Honeysuckle, for example. Inspired by her grandparents’ home in Morrison—“They had this big honeysuckle bush in their yard,” Jackson says—the collection of 12 patterns sports whimsical garden motifs, including lemons, butterflies, bees, and, of course, honeysuckle vines. The Pure Life collection is essentially a painted travel journal from a trip to Costa Rica that Jackson took with her husband.

Each element of Jackson’s patterns— whether a single flower or a colorful macaw—is initially hand-painted using gouache, a water-based paint with an

acrylic paint texture. Jackson then digitizes the paintings, cleans up the details in Adobe Photoshop, and arranges the images into a pattern using Adobe Illustrator. Every design is a product of trial and error, and Jackson’s process—shifting this element slightly, adding another image here, adjusting the color saturation there, previewing how the pattern repeats to spot awkward gaps—is instinctual and personal, she says. “I want you to look at [my patterns] and be like, ‘Oh, Katie did that.’ ”

Ranging from mellow and muted to bold and busy, Jackson’s wallpaper designs provide visual interest to a space without overpowering it. “My paint palettes are [colorful but] not fluorescent or overwhelming,” she explains. “There’s a balance [to the designs] so that the spaces [they’re in] still feel calm and inviting.”

WHERE TO FIND IT

Jackson’s wallpapers are manufactured by Spoonflower, a sustainable home decor company that works with independent artists, and can be accessed through Jackson’s website, shopmodern magic.com. All designs are available as removable, traditional, and grasscloth wallcoverings; prices depend on panel size and paper type.

From left: Katie Leigh Jackson in her home studio; wallcoverings adorned with hand-painted butterflies and illustrated palm leaves

Courtesy Of Modern Magic (3)

Office Party DESIGN

Peek inside Shinesty headquarters, where Denver designer Abigail Plantier imagined the spaces one might encounter while attending a groovy 1970s house party.

BY CHRISTINE DEORIO

Shinesty, the Denver-based apparel brand known for quirky undies and cheeky party wear, wants the world to take itself less seriously. Its CEO, Chris White, brought that same ethos to the company’s new Highland headquarters, an industrial space with 360-degree city views. Instead of drab cubicles and stuffy conference rooms, he wanted fun spaces for staff members and guests to gather, collaborate, and get inspired—and he wanted Abigail Plantier, founder of local design firm Maximalist, to dream them up. “I wanted to create a space that felt residential but with a fun twist that takes us back to when 1970s party mansions had their moment,” says Plantier, who worked with general contractor Chris Jenkins of X-Colo on the project. Here, she shares the fun design details that, with a little imagination, you could bring into your office, kitchen, or bar area— whether or not you’re an admirer of banana-print underwear.

BOARDROOM

Designed for work and (mostly) play, this meeting room and bar gives off serious Jet Age airport lounge vibes with its berry-hued Interface carpet and retro-style furnishings—including Corbett Lighting’s Theory chandelier, Article’s Makeva swivel chairs, and CB2’s Cupa leather seats. The walls are warmed by Behr’s Cinnamon Crunch paint color, the bar by Royal Liqueur. “When I pick a paint color, I always look at the name because I think it can be a sign that the color is the right fit,” Plantier says. A row of Tom Dixon pendants hangs over the conference table, and a Scott Young neon sign encouraging the staff to “Stay Weird” floats in front of the city view.

KITCHEN

By painting the kitchen’s existing cabinetry yellow, Plantier gave the hardworking room a glow-up from the floor up. “We didn’t have the budget for a remodel, so paint was our friend,” says the designer, who further spiffed up the space by creating a metallic banana-print wallpaper to wrap the refrigerator wall. “We made it a feature,” she says, “as opposed to an eyesore.”

LOBBY

“You feel like you’re in a pool,” Plantier says of the office lobby, which is decked in watery blue hues and reflective materials. Iridescent side tables amplify the aqua-colored Interface carpet; the feature wall is illuminated by a custom neon sign by local artist Scott Young.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESS BLACKWELL

MEMORIES ARE NOT MASS-PRODUCED

SPIRITS AS INDIVIDUAL AS YOU ARE Colorado born & raised with character, balance & no artificial anything.

A Monumental Effort

President Joe Biden may have created the Camp Hale–Continental Divide National Monument last October, but don’t expect to find Yogi Bear’s Jellystone. “If people are hoping to have a developed, National Park Service–type experience with rangers in flat hats, visitor centers, etc., they will be disappointed,” says David Boyd, a spokesperson with the White River National Forest, which manages the 53,804-acre monument southeast of Minturn. Instead, the area that encompasses Camp Hale (the WWII training grounds for the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division) and a swath of the neighboring Tenmile Range is still unembellished. But that could change. ¶ As part of the designation—the first of Biden’s presidency—the Forest Service must develop a new plan to manage the region’s cultural and natural resources. Chief among them: the trails and backcountry huts that have long lured hikers, bikers, and skiers to its peaks. The Forest Service is in the early stages of gathering input from three Native American tribes with ancestral lands inside the monument. (The Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute tribes supported the designation, but the Ute Indian Tribe, headquartered in Utah, says it was not properly consulted.) When finalized, the plan could include additional bathrooms, interpretive signs, and that missing visitor center.

—NICHOLAS HUNT

PHOTOGRAPH BY SETH K. HUGHES

Natural Curves

Fancy a home decor refresh this fall? Add organic movement to any space with pieces that showcase undulating forms.

BY MICHELLE JOHNSON

1. Teak root wave serving bowl, from $118, Anthropologie / 2. Swoosh rug in sand, from $199, West Elm / 3. Stature black dining armchair in vela fabric in noir, $399, CB2, cb2.com / 4. Mobile Chandelier 13 in black, $419, Vakkerlight / 5. Annie storage cabinet in whitewash, $1,999, Leanne Ford, at Crate & Barrel / 6. Noelle modular sofa in velvet mustard, curved and straight modules shown, from $3,495 per module, Soho Home / 7. Pedestal sculptural planter and stand, $3,400, Light & Ladder / 8. Palma reclaimed coffee table in neutral, $1,598, Anthropologie

Why Did The Author Cross The Road?

Ben Goldfarb has only seen a wolf once. It was pooping in a parking lot in Yellowstone National Park. “This glorious animal was just trotting across a square of asphalt,” Goldfarb says, “and stopped to do its business.” It wasn’t the first time he’d seen an animal confront—and fail to navigate—the infrastructure we’ve created in the name of human mobility. The Salida-based environmental journalist spent much of the past decade reporting Crossings: How Road Ecology

Is Shaping the Future of the Planet

The book, which was published last month, examines the impact dirt double-tracks, four-lane freeways, and continent-spanning interstates can have on species around the world, from the kangaroos orphaned by Tasmania’s narrow highways to the Colorado stretch of I-70 known as the Berlin Wall for wildlife. Goldfarb, who is 36, is acutely aware of how ironic it is that his book wouldn’t have been possible without an automobile, and he knows that the tens of thousands of miles he estimates he drove while reporting it make him complicit in the destruction of nature he documented. “If highways are forces of freedom for us, they’re basically prison walls for other animals,” he says. “That tension is what the book is fundamentally about.”

The dichotomy isn’t limited to his road trips. To appreciate nature and to want to protect it, you have to experience it, and that usually means getting in a vehicle. “Roads have been integral to the history of conservation,” Goldfarb says. Most of our national parks, for instance, were designed specifically to give motorists a car window into the nation’s wildest ecosystems, and as his wolf

encounter so poignantly illustrates, that made wild space fundamentally less wild in the process.

Whether or not roads create more bad than good, one thing is certain: The future does not promise fewer of them, especially in Colorado, where we routinely expand interstates to accommodate an ever-growing number of drivers. Road-trippers and commuters will go on squishing frogs and walloping insects with their windshields, and asphalt barriers will continue to restrict migration.

Goldfarb’s book acknowledges this inevitability, but it also points to potential, if partial, solutions, such as wildlife crossings: land bridges and grassy underpasses that help animals safely

cross roads. Such projects have support across the political spectrum, and two structures are in the works in Colorado, one that will allow lynx to cross I-70 at Vail Pass and another that seeks to reduce collisions between drivers and deer on U.S. 160 near Durango. Although such strategies may help mitigate the environmental damage that roads cause, the only way to stop it completely is not to drive. And that’s not going to happen. Even the most ardent conservationists still get behind the wheel, or as Goldfarb puts it in Crossings’ introduction: “I at once cherish animals and think nothing of piloting a three-thousand-pound death machine.”

—JAY BOUCHARD

If you can stomach a road trip, Goldfarb will be reading from Crossings at Telluride’s Wilkinson Public Library (October 11), Colorado Mesa University Montrose (October 12), and Paonia’s Paonia Books (October 13).

PHOTOGRAPH BY BETH JOHNSTON

Courtesy of W.W. Norton & Company (book)

Local journalist Ben Goldfarb has spent years mapping the impact highways have on wildlife. His new book offers a window into a less deadly future.

Town And Country

Boulder’s Open Studios Tour is helping more artists feel at home.

The Open Studios Tour has connected the public with local artists for 28 years, but when the event returns this month, it’s going somewhere new: outside the Boulder Bubble. By expanding the tour (free; October 7 to 8, 14 to 15, 21 to 22) to include Longmont, Lafayette, Louisville, and Erie, more artists will be able to host visitors in their actual workspaces rather than having to find temporary accommodations in the People’s Republic. And that means a more authentic experience for everyone. —BO

THE NEW SCHOOLER

Longmont’s Paula Peacock is inspired by the Old Masters—European painters from before 1800 who typically used layer upon layer of pigment to achieve a polished realism in their works. But where Caravaggio might have waited months for each layer to dry before adding a new one, Peacock isn’t that patient. Instead, she uses modern oil paints, which can set in days. It’s not just her paint that’s current—her still lifes marry classic composition with a sense of the surreal. See the speedster in action during tour weekends, when Peacock plans to paint for the public. 1515 Main St., Suite 202, Longmont

THE HOT HAND

Angelo Ambrosia’s studio a block from Longmont’s Main Street doesn’t encourage quiet contemplation. Instead, with sweltering furnaces, sharp tools, and molten glass, it’s a place of primal creation. While the venue might seem rustic, the graceful vases, ornaments, and sculptures Ambrosia shapes there are anything but. If you like what you see during your visit—and aren’t intimidated by the 2,100-degree kiln—you can sign up for a five-week, beginner glassblowing class ($400) or private lessons ($85 per hour). 34 Boston Court, Suite D, Longmont

THE PERFECTIONIST

He may still zhuzh up the occasional garden, but these days, landscape architect and multidisciplinary artist Dante Ortiz spends most of his time in his airy Folsom Street studio. “Garden building has budgets and clients and parameters,” he says, “but I feel like I can really let myself go with my artmaking.” During your visit, you’ll be able to observe Ortiz’s paintings and sculptures in various stages of completion, making it easier to decipher how he fashions his intricate, pattern-heavy pieces using various materials, including spray paint, printer ink, wax, and glass beads. 3325 Folsom St., Boulder

Clockwise from top left: Courtesy of Paula Peacock (“Food Chain” by Paula Peacock); Courtesy of Ambrosia Glass Art; Courtesy of Dante Ortiz (“Even Ugly Blooms” by Dante Ortiz)

PRIVATE & SEMI-PRIVATE EVENT SPACESFULL BAR AVAILABLECUSTOMIZABLE MENUS

Start planning your perfect urban event today! Scan the QR code to learn more about our outdoor and indoor event spaces.

Eat & Drink

Cone Appétit

To Michael Kimball, ice cream is a canvas for creativity, memories, exploration—and feelings. All of the above inspired the 32-year-old restaurant server turned food stylist to launch Sadboy Creamery in early 2023. “We have music for when we’re sad. We should have ice cream for when we’re sad, too,” he says of the business, which he hopes will raise the spirits of all Denverites—in particular, LGBTQIA+ community members who have faced hardship. Some of Kimball’s names, such as the honeydew-centric Melon-choly Mint, reflect the theme of his quirky brand, while others, like the frosted-treat-layered Cookie Circus, are nostalgic throwbacks to his childhood. Every iteration starts with Kimball’s scratch-made base: a creamy, scoopable recipe sweetened with blue agave that he spent months perfecting. Preorder pints on his website to pick up at his Capitol Hill kitchen on Saturday mornings. This fall and winter, look for new creations such as caramel ice cream swirled with a sour apple sherbet and a yellow, orange, and white twist on the traditional Neapolitan that was influenced by his father’s love of candy corn. Both are sweet comfort for whatever mood you’re in.

—VISVAJIT SRIRAMRAJAN

PHOTOGRAPH BY SARAH BANKS

A cone piled with Sadboy’s creations, including Peach Ring Creamsicle, PB Oreo, and Moody Pebbles

An Apple A Day

Come fall, Colorado apple trees are laden with crisp red orbs just waiting to be picked and eaten whole, diced into salads, or baked in desserts. “People have a lot of powerful memories of apple harvest—the smells, the tastes, the feelings,” says Jeff Schwartz, director of agricultural operations at Big B’s Fruit Company in Paonia. “It’s a very special fruit.” Here, we asked local growers and a chef about their favorite Centennial State varieties and how best to prepare them.

—SARAH KUTA

1. PINK LADY Color: Rosy pink and yellowish

Best For: Juicing and dehydrating. But save some fresh slices of the ultrafirm, tart beauties, which are ideal for dipping in caramel. They can “go up against the classic Granny Smith,” Schwartz says.

2. JONATHAN

Color: Deep crimson

Best For: Dehydrating. Schwartz likes to

Save The Date Colorado apple season typically runs from mid-August to mid-October.

On the Front Range, get them at orchards or farmers’ markets and grocery stores, or visit growers in eastern and western parts of the state.

core and cut the slightly acidic, sugarkissed fruit into rounds or wedges to finish in a food dehydrator. “It makes excellent dried fruit,” Schwartz says of the delicate, yellowish-white flesh.

3. HONEYCRISP

Color: Mottled reddish-pink and greenish-yellow

Best For: Salads. Boulder’s Oak at Fourteenth makes this robust, baseball- to softball-size fruit

the star of its wildly popular kale apple salad, a mix of shredded kale, julienned apples, lemon vinaigrette, candied almonds, Grana Padano cheese, and a dash of the Japanese spice mix togarashi. “The Honeycrisp’s crunch is amazing,” says executive chef and partner Steve Redzikowski.

4. CAMEO Color: Speckled blush and yellow

Best For: Applesauce. Sharon Perdue, owner of Longmont’s Ya Ya Farm and Orchard, blends sweet-tart Cameos with other varieties she has on hand to make applesauce. (The Jonagold, a cross between the Jonathan and a Golden Delicious, makes a nice addition.) “I usually don’t add anything to my applesauce, but you could throw in cinnamon or other spices at the end, once you know what the apple flavor is really going to be,” she says.

5. MCINTOSH

Color: Maroon with some yellow undertones and striping

Best For: Baking. Honey-tinged McIntoshes are great for pies, crisps, applesauce, and fresh eating, but you often must visit a local orchard to find them. That’s because this variety is thin-skinned and tender, so the apples bruise easily during shipping. “Pick them yourself, take them home, put them in the refrigerator,” Perdue says, “and you’ll have them for up to three weeks.”

6. WINESAP

Color: Rich burgundy accented by lighter shades of red  Best For: Eating in winter. Thanks to their late-season harvest and sturdy constitution, Winesaps can be kept for months. They also make the best pies, Perdue says. “It hits every sense on your taste buds,” she says. “A lot of times in the Winesap, you can see these clear lines in the flesh, and that’s actually where the sugars have set.”

Moonshot

There are times when a restaurant persists despite having closed its doors. It becomes a ghost of sorts. Or, in the case of eightmonth-old Major Tom, you could say Call’s lingering spirit is more like a long shadow. Located in the space that now houses Major Tom, Call was such a lunch revelation that its bright daytime menu earned it a spot on Bon Appétit’s 10 Best New Restaurants list in 2018. But then, in late 2019, it closed for renovations and never reopened. So when the same hospitality team—Craig Lieberman of 34

Degrees Crisps, executive chef Duncan Holmes, and director of experience Allison Anderson—opened this cosmic-themed bar and restaurant in its place in February 2023, many hoped it would be Call 2.0.

Call was definitely a hit, and for those still lamenting the loss, there are lasting vestiges to be found at Major Tom. Continued are the rustic, open-faced sandwiches called tartines, the warm and informed service, the attention to detail, and the lunar mural on the patio wall, part of the inspiration for the space-y theme. But Major Tom isn’t the second

coming of Call. It’s its own thing—and that’s more than good enough.

You’ll notice the changes immediately: The entrance has been reconfigured, so you now come in from the back of the bungalow-turned-restaurant, and the fence surrounding the patio is higher. There are 26 seats inside instead of 10, and the decor, once sunny and bright, is now moody and in keeping with the David Bowie–inspired name. This squares with shifting the focus from Call’s day-tonight model to Major Tom’s eveningservice-specific setup.

The idea for Major Tom stemmed from a pre-pandemic trip to Scandinavia, where Holmes and Anderson (both formerly of Frasca Food and Wine) were traveling for fun and encountered many restaurants with

Major Tom, a swanky bar and restaurant from the team behind Beckon, blasts off in RiNo. AMANDA M. FAISON

^ From left: Oysters and fries with bubbly; Duncan Holmes and Allison Anderson

impressive Champagne and sparkling programs. “It’s something that piggybacks on [sister restaurant] Beckon but also stands on its own,” Holmes says.

Five-year-old Beckon, which sits a few feet away and won a Michelin star in September for its firstin-Denver chef’s counter, is the showpiece of the pair. Major Tom spins its dishes from the same carefully procured ingredients with the same degree of attention, but with a more come-as-you-are approach.

In high demand are the oysters and the fries—best ordered together for high-low decadence. The ice-cold bivalves are adorned with Champagne gelée and a ring of pickled shallots. Savor the cool bite and then reach for the fries, which arrive piping hot and are close to the Platonic ideal (yes, hat-tip to McDonald’s).

A must-order is the Big Crunchy Green Salad. Ho-hum as it may sound, the tangle of greens is the masterwork of Esoterra Culinary Garden near Boulder. Major Tom’s kitchen staff just gives the rotating assortment of leaves a hearty toss with a heady, mustardy vinaigrette and lets the greenery do the rest. On the two occasions I had the salad, which is too big for two people, the dressing varied in potency. When you order it, hope for full strength.

The tartines are thick-cut pieces of toast loaded with all manner of ingredients. The version with chanterelles, Burrata, and cherries remains a glorious reminder that sandwiches are better without lids. The Shooting Star, a caviar-topped stack of prawns and fried halibut on remoulade-smeared sourdough toast, is a Major Tom original influenced by a classic Danish open-face sandwich, and a luxurious one at that.

As the most expensive item on the menu ($56), the pork chop arrives surprisingly unadorned, outside of being sauced with brown butter and red wine vinegar. “This is representative of Duncan’s pared-down style,” Justin Mueller, wine director for Beckon and Major Tom, says. “It’s honest, it’s fresh. He lets whatever it is shine.” You’ll probably agree that the rich, well-marbled pork is flavorful on its own, but at that price, you’ll still likely wish for an accompaniment.

Mueller’s wine list, which includes 40-plus sparkling options, was curated with quality in mind. Instead of cheap glasses of bubbles, you’ll find wines from the premier producers of Champagne. “We have a few sparkling options that are not Champagne, but if you want to swing for the fences, you can get a $400 bottle, or a single diner can get a really special glass,” he says.

Mueller’s infectious enthusiasm and knowledge pushed me to order a $28 glass of Marc Hebart rosé—a pour from one of the roughly five magnum and double magnum bottles the eatery offers each week. I was glad I did, because one sip and the tiny bubbles burst forth with spring strawberries, unsweetened cream, and sea breeze.

This is the fizzy fun of Major Tom: At every turn, the restaurant draws you into its orbit. While there are glimpses of Call, it’s clear that Major Tom has its own gravitational pull, one that isn’t eclipsed by its predecessor.

TASTE THE STARS

Just about every restaurant in town offers a glass of something sparkling. But to really dive into the thrilling world of Champagne, prosecco, and cava, sip from these local menus. —AMF

SUNDAY VINYL

Everything about Sunday Vinyl at Union Station feels upbeat, from the records spinning on the turntables to the bubbles selection. Sip a snappy Austrian rosé from Salomon Undhof or the slightly savory 2022 L’Escale Sauvignon Blanc from Vincent Roussely. Need some guidance? Enlist the help of sommelier Clara Klein’s astute palate. 1803 16th St

NOBLE RIOT

Intent on debunking the tired myth that wine is all highbrow, RiNo’s Noble Riot stocks its wine bar and shop with grapes that serve as conversation pieces. Like the rest of the list, the sparkling offerings are meant to raise eyebrows. From the Pét-Nat and Weirdo Bubbs Bottle list, look for the Strekov 1075 Créme #6 from Slovakia for notes of pear and marzipan. 1336 27th St.

RESTAURANT OLIVIA

MAJOR TOM

2845 Larimer St.; majortomdenver.com

The Draw: A creative, farmdriven menu; one of Denver’s best patios

The Drawback: Fine-dining quality means the bill edges up quickly

Noise Level: Low

Don’t Miss: Champagne and sparkling wine, oysters, tartines

We appreciate this Wash Park spot’s commitment to Italian sparkling wines. The single by-the-glass offering—the Berlucchi Franciacorta Brut ’61—goes with almost everything on the menu. Or scan the exciting bottle options, in particular the Lambrusco and Refosco sections. Known as food wines, these value-friendly picks are worth discovering. 290 S. Downing St.

^ The Big Crunchy Green Salad at Major Tom

Courtesy of Restaurant Olivia (brut)

Everyone Has 32 Teeth

“How many teeth do you have?” my four-year-old son asked the other day at breakfast.

Thirty-two.

“How many teeth do I have?” my wife responded. “Or how many teeth do you have?” “Both,” he said. “How many teeth do people have?”

Thirty-two.

My wife explained to him that it’s different for children and adults. That he probably doesn’t have all his teeth quite yet, and that his little brother has even fewer. She didn’t delve into the wisdom teeth of it all. The fact that your deepest, largest teeth will likely one day be wrenched from the back of your skull by a paid professional is a cruel truth we intend for him to learn on his own, like climate change and where babies come from.

What has 32 teeth and counts them dozens of times a day? A Denver comedian with OCD.

BY ADAM CAYTON-HOLLAND

“How many teeth do grown-ups have?”

“Thirty-two!” I blurted out, finally voicing the number that was begging to escape my head.

My wife looked at me, skeptically. Why did I have that information so springloaded, as if I were just waiting for someone to ask me? I looked at her sheepishly and shrugged. Because I had been waiting for someone to ask me. She shook her head in dismay. Yet another layer to this man she married, this labyrinth of neuroses. You see, I count my teeth—compulsively. I start in a corner, tap my tongue from the bottom right molar, up to the top right, then on down the line, all the way across to the other side of my mouth. I have no idea how often I do this. If I had to guess or tell a court-ordered therapist, I would estimate 50 times a day. Of course, you would never know. I don’t open my mouth. I’ve trained my jaw to stay still while I do it. Were you to encounter me walking down the street, you would find a seemingly normal person going about his business. You would never know that inside that person’s mouth, a busy tongue flicks deftly betwixt molars and premolars, canines and incisors, left to right, sometimes right to left, down and back, then back again, while the numbers one through 32 clickity-clack through his skull like a delightful, animated segment on a children’s program.

These are your teeth! Just ask Keith! He counts them all the time!

The segment stars a guy named Keith. Keith is neurotic.

“Trust me,” I assured my wife. “It’s 32.”

I wasn’t even cognizant of the fact that I counted my teeth until that exact moment. The behavior is the definition of subconscious. Yet right there, at breakfast, this subliminal truth about myself shot to the surface so vehemently I immediately understood it as well as I had

ever understood anything. I count my teeth. All the time. This is my truth. And I felt proud of this newfound truth.

I felt satisfied that my utterly useless tic—one of many caused by my obsessivecompulsive disorder—proved beneficial, that it provided my son with information. He asks 1,000 questions a day. I can barely answer any of them. But here, at long last, was something Daddy knew quite well. Like the back of his teeth.

Except I was wrong. Humans have 28 teeth. My wife looked it up on her phone while I was patting myself on the back. It’s 32 with wisdom teeth, but as my son will someday learn on the streets, you usually get those pulled. Like I did way back when.

All this time, all these years that I had been counting my teeth, knowing them better than any human being could ever possibly know his teeth, I was doing it wrong. Despite landing on the number 32 every time I count, I actually only have 28 teeth. As do you. As do most people.

Huh.

I REMEMBER THE first time I ever heard the word psychosomatic. I was in the Denver office of my childhood pediatrician, Dr. White. I was seven, maybe eight, and I was there because I had been peeing a lot. Like a lot, a lot. So much so that my mother decided to take me to the doctor. But I was only peeing at night, when I was going to bed. I would head to the bathroom before turning in, then head back to bed. Except instead of going to sleep, I would fixate on my bladder.

Surely there’s more pee in there, I would think. A few drops, at least. It’s not completely empty, and it must be completely empty.

After five or 10 minutes of thinking about how I probably needed to pee again, I would need to pee again. So I would. Then 15 minutes later, after similar torment, I’d be off to urinate once more. And so on. Night after night of me trudging to the bathroom, peeing, heading back to bed, repeat.

Imagine your child doing this. Imagine the sounds. The bed springs springing as he gets up. The click of the bathroom door as it opens. The paltry amount of urine hitting the toilet water, then the grunting, the wheezing, as he forces out a few more hard-earned drops. The shuffling of feet as he heads back to bed. The door shutting. The bedsprings springing anew. Then all of it, all over again. And again. For hours.

Can you imagine this symphony? My parents listened to it on a nightly basis in our shared bathroom. Which is how I wound up in Dr. White’s office being told it was all in my head.

The doctor was very matter-of-fact, in my recollection. He assured my mother and me that there was nothing physically wrong with

The More You Know

The International OCD Foundation celebrates OCD Awareness Week from October 8 to 14. To learn more about OCD and how to reduce the stigma surrounding it and other mental health disorders, visit iocdf.org.

me, no bladder infection, no cancer. I was just mentally torturing myself. My behavior was psychosomatic; I needed to tell my brain to stop telling my bladder it had to pee. I appreciated the way that he treated me like a grown-up that day. He told me I didn’t have to urinate. I told him, I know that, but my brain respectfully disagrees. Then I like to think we shook hands.

But my behavior didn’t stop. For people like me, the behavior can’t stop. These are obsessions. These are compulsions. There is no reasoning with them because there is no reason. Hence the word disorder. So we all just adjusted. Dr. White went back to work, my parents turned the volume up on the television in their room, and I peed as many times as I needed to. Which was a lot.

My first experience spending significant time away from a familiar bed was a nightmare. We were visiting my mom’s side of the family in Virginia, and for five days of our stay, I attended a soccer camp at the University of Virginia. Four boys I had never met and I were placed in a cheap, student-housing condo, where, mercifully, we each had our own room. But the bathroom was shared: multiple sinks, multiple stalls. Selfpreservation had me scrambling for the room nearest the bathroom, but that only got me so

far. When we all turned in at the same campmandated time, the others dreamed of soccer glory, while I envisioned an empty jar filling with liquid, a leaky pipe in some underground tunnel. Then I tiptoed back to the bathroom for another taste of that sweet, sweet pissing. Then I did it again. And again.

One night, a fellow camper opened his door and caught me in the act of traipsing. He was annoyed, sleepless, his face full of what-the-fuck? He had been listening to the machinations of my pee dance for an hour. I told him I was having diarrhea and apologized. He shook his head and shut the door. Humiliated, I peed into my dorm room trash can for the remainder of camp. Every morning, I would make sure I was the last to leave for the day’s training, then I would empty the trash can in the shower, clean it, and return it to my room for the coming miserable evening.

I didn’t go to another soccer camp for years, which undoubtedly hindered my development. Now, whenever someone watches me play in my washed-up indoor soccer league for 40-year-old men at a fitness club in Denver’s Central Park neighborhood, they marvel at my immaculate first touch, my powerful finishes, and my general flair, and

they wonder why I didn’t play professionally. I tell them Barcelona was interested in buying me as a boy midfielder, pumping me full of growth hormones Lionel Messi–style, then unleashing me on La Liga, but there was one small problem: Uhh, how you say, “I pissed too much”?

Compulsive nocturnal urination wasn’t my only obsessive behavior. My sisters and I all had tendencies. We collected and shared them, swapped them like OCD trading cards. And you better believe every one of them was in mint condition.

Before my older sister closed her eyes for the night, the last thing she had to see was the window of her bedroom, never the door. Because if the last thing she saw was the door, it meant that, while she slept, someone would pass through that door.

Made sense. I added it to the regimen.

Before my little sister, Lydia, got into a car, she had to touch the door of the car, not the handle. Because if she touched the handle first, the car would crash.

As good a take on how cars work as any! I incorporated that, too.

Lydia also had a tic that was so perfectly her. If she dropped something on the floor—a piece

of trash, a Goldfish cracker, a bit of popcorn at the movies—she had to drop another piece so it wouldn’t be lonely.

I still do that to this day.

My bedtime ritual was Victorian in its hysteria. Bedposts counted and recounted. My single pillow was perfectly centered, then recentered, while nondenominational prayers were bestowed upon family members and pets, always in the same order, then reversed, so that nobody received preferential blessing treatment.

Then, of course, the peeing.

I want to say that this all calmed me; that the world was terrifying and chaotic, and that these rituals were my way of bestowing order where I saw none, of asserting control in the face of a dark void. This is the point where I should present facts to you, percentages of the population who suffer from similar symptoms, data from some esteemed psychological journal about the brain chemistry that mandates this behavior. But I don’t know about any of that. I just know there were itches to be scratched, so I scratched them. Whenever they needed me to. And that made them go away. For a while.

Over the years, these OCD rituals mercifully began fading. For the most part. My bedtime ritual grew shorter and shorter. The need to complete each task was less ardent, the burden was lessened. Maybe my brain was filled with other things: classwork, music, girls, sports. Maybe there wasn’t room for the itching anymore. It got crowded out.

But experience tells me that I just received less of an initial dose of neurosis in my genetic makeup. My older sister, too. We grew up, remained powerfully neurotic, but were able to control it, not the other way around. My little sister wasn’t so lucky. She was dealt a heavier dose. As she aged, the compulsions and obsessions got worse. Until she stopped aging.

I remember when she started to spiral, one of her first confessions of torment was how she could no longer read. As she explained it, rather than bouncing from one word to the next, she would scan the individual letters in a sentence, backward and forward, over and over, so exhaustively that she couldn’t make any progress. Hours would pass, and she wouldn’t have finished a paragraph, the urge to revisit the terrain she had just read too strong.

When Lydia was in the psychiatric ward for a mandatory 72-hour hold when she was 27, 28, I can’t recall—toward the end—my older sister and I brought her lunch every day. We sat down and ate with her. We asked her how bad things were getting. Openly, honestly. We didn’t keep anything from one another; we never had. And while she assured us that she wasn’t going to take her own life, that it

was bad but not lethal—and we truly believed her—I also remember this terrifying feeling of comprehension. The scary thing wasn’t how little we understood her behavior, but how much we did.

She explained to us that her brain was doing this, her brain was doing that, and she felt powerless to stop it. You could tell she felt guilty about it. Apologetic. She knew we understood, but she also knew we had conquered the same intrusive thoughts, or at least tamed them, and she felt ashamed she hadn’t. We sat there, listening, sympathetic and feckless, completely cognizant of how she felt, yet powerless to do anything about it. We wanted to shake her, to tell her to tune it out, to scratch the itch, if you must, but then move on. But Lydia’s brain chemistry was just ever so slightly different from ours, I suppose. Off by a degree, a nanomillimeter. How heartless. What a cruel dice roll. So, Lydia scratched, and she scratched, and she scratched. Until the wound could no longer heal.

SOMETIMES I WONDER what it is exactly that I’m passing on to my sons—the mental illness pulsing through my lineage, the curse in my blood. When my wife was pregnant, I brought it up a lot. Because I was worried. I didn’t want to harm my children by giving them my genes. My wife talked me through it. What else are you going to do? Lock yourself in your immaculate home and fear the shadows?

We both agreed that my not leaning into my neurotic tendencies in front of our children would be a good thing. No need to swap OCD trading cards like I did with my sisters. No need to tell my kids when we’re shooting hoops that if I make the next trick shot, everyone I love will never have to suffer again. If those thoughts are ever going to enter their heads, they will come from the inside, not from the outside. But as my children have gotten older, I’ve grown less concerned about how my tics may affect them.

And in any case, children have a way of battering your neuroses against the cliffs. We live in Five Points, in a house built in 1906, with loads of original features. My kids couldn’t give a shit. The two-year-old wrenches the pocket doors out of their sliding stalls in the walls, then crashes them into one another with glee; he throws PAW Patrol figurines into the beveled glass, hard. The four-year-old is structurally kinder, but putting things away is far beneath him. No matter how many times we sing the cleanup song, if you walk into our house without giving us a heads-up, it looks like Santa Claus got hit by a bus.

And you know what? That’s fine. Life has become a Melissa & Doug ice cream set with

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three flavors missing. And as badly as I want to focus on those three wayward scoops, I have to let them go. If I try to maintain the order of my childhood bedroom, my first apartment, the house my wife and I shared before this one, no one would tolerate me. I would be a tyrant shouting orders, the same way those orders were shouted at me, inside of my head, for so long.

Today, my brain allows me to focus on more important things, like raising children kindly and not sweating their constant tiny messes. My brain would rather I be a good dad. And I’m so grateful for that. I know others are not so lucky. And if my brain is going to let me off the hook, I’m not going to beat myself up, either. For not being perfect. For relapsing.

When my wife informed me that morning that people have 28 teeth instead of 32, I thought it was some profound metaphor for how silly this all is. How you think you’re controlling some supposed chaos through OCD tics, but really, they’re controlling you. You’re worshipping a false idol. It felt like this aha moment, and for a brief second, I entertained the notion of never counting my teeth again. But later that afternoon, there I was, darting my tongue around my mouth. Again.

I decided if my brain needs a few olive branches to its former iron rule as part of my current, less neurotic existence, so be it. If I count my teeth compulsively—and incorrectly—big whoop. It’s how I’m wired. And while there’s plenty wrong with that, there’s also nothing wrong with that. I’m not proud of it, but I’m not ashamed. What does any of it matter? Life is so hard; who cares what you tell yourself to get through it? In the end, I’m just doing what anyone is doing, albeit with a heightened degree of compulsion. My mind behaves differently than a lot of others’, but it also is capable of amazing things.

So here I am, writing it all down. Owning it. My name is Adam Cayton-Holland, and although I know I have 28 teeth, it calms me to tell myself I have 32. You would never know that about me unless I told you. Were you to encounter me walking down the street, you wouldn’t know that I’m different from you. You wouldn’t know the neurotic means by which I’m able to function, by which I’m able to focus on loving my sons more than fearing for them. You would merely see a seemingly normal person, doing his best to put one foot in front of the other, as he secretly scratches an itch. m

Adam Cayton-Holland is a Denver writer and comic. His memoir, Tragedy Plus Time, is available anywhere books are sold. Send feedback to letters@5280.com.

REALTOR PROFILES

Anne Dresser Kocur

YOUR REPRESENTATION MATTERS - ANNE DRESSER KOCUR IS THE RIGHT CHOICE.

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• #1 Individual Broker in the Denver Metro Area

• #1 Individual Broker at LIV Sotheby’s International Realty

• #1 Individual Producer for Denver Metro Association of Realtors

• Over 95% Client Repeat/Referral Rate

• 5280 Excellence Award Winner

• Years of Corporate Relocation Experience

• Red Carpet Service in Every Price Range

• Extraordinary Negotiation Skills

The Denver real estate market continues to change, but Anne remains the same – dedicated and determined to go above and beyond to meet all your real estate needs.

Wendy Glazer

Wendy’s CUSTOMER-FIRST philosophy is the reason she is highly successful. There are many qualities and skills that go into being an excellent real estate professional: integrity, in-depth community and market knowledge, marketing savvy, effective negotiation skills, being ethical, and a high-quality professional network. All of these are hallmarks of Wendy’s expertise. Wendy finds that providing the very best service is always about putting her clients first. This means being accessible, paying attention to details, being a good listener, a good communicator and responding quickly to clients’ needs in order to have smooth and seamless transactions.

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SPECIALIZATIONS Luxury Homes, New Construction, First Time Buyers, Relocation, Investments

AFFILIATIONS +AWARDS Top 5% of Realtors in Sales Production in the Nation, Yearly recipient of the Denver Metro Association of Realtors Excellence Award, Yearly recipient of the Denver Board of Realtors Million Dollar Round Table Award, Yearly recipient of the Five Star Award, 5280 Magazine’s Top Real Estate Producer - Double Black Diamond Award

215 St. Paul Street, Suite 200, Denver, CO 80206 • 303-906-9000 WENDYGLAZER.COM | BDGLAZ@AOL.COM

KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE

Ashleigh Fredrickson

THE AGENCY

As a top-tier broker, Ashleigh Fredrickson’s mission is to deliver personalized service to her discerning clientele while guiding them smoothly through their real estate journey. At the heart of her success is her dedication to each client’s unique needs by providing strategic direction and a proven process in an ever-evolving real estate landscape. Recognized amongst her clients and fellow agents for her integrity, strong work ethic, and uncompromising advocacy, Ashleigh loves creating meaningful relationships and has built her business through repeat clients and referrals.

Ashleigh’s personal passion for real estate investment, home design and architecture connects her with likeminded clients who value her expertise and judgment when it comes to their real estate portfolios. She enjoys sharing her personal experiences, connections and resources as a real estate advisor.

As a proud broker with The Agency, which was recently awarded the top Luxury Brokerage, she thrives in a culture that is committed to redefining the industry and the client experience.

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

“Having been with Ashleigh on both buy and sell sides, and through numerous real estate transactions, without reservation, there is no better agent. She significantly increased our proceeds through meticulous staging, outreach and promotion efforts and skilled negotiation. Her ability to utilize current social media outlets and her acute awareness of the Denver housing market and neighborhood pockets - is simply mind blowing. We were under contract within hours from listing, rather than days. She picked through inspection issues as if she were an electrician, plumber, HVAC tech and general contractor. She made herself available, was direct, honest and upfront. She is extremely scheduled and organized as well as both personal and professional. She has amazing energy and determination and an extensive network to back it up. She’s tough when necessary, patient when appropriate, and ruthlessly devoted to her clients” - M.B.

AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS

• 5280 Magazine Top Producer

• DMAR Excellence Award Winner - Platinum

• Recognized for being in the top 1.5% of America’s Best Real Estate Professionals in the Country by Real Trends + Tom Ferry

• Member of Denver Metro Association of Realtors

• Member of National Association of Realtors

Mary Jones, CRS

As a Denver native and an established agent for over twenty years, Mary is known for her extensive knowledge of the Denver market and for being an unwavering and passionate advocate for her clients. She strives to ensure that the home buying or selling process is fun, easy, and stress-free.

A consistent Top Producer at Kentwood Real Estate, she credits her business to her client relationships and their referrals. Providing excellent service to buyers and sellers comes naturally for Mary because of the joy she finds in helping people through what can be both an exciting and emotional time. When it comes to fulfilling wants and needs with the perfect home for buyers and the best offer for sellers, Mary absolutely shines.

Mary firmly believes that everyone deserves excellent representation regardless of price point. However, her extensive experience in the luxury home market sets her apart. She knows the unique challenges that can accompany the luxury market and how to creatively work to get the best outcome for her clients.

AFFILIATIONS

Certified Residential Specialist, Denver Metro Association of Realtors, Colorado Association of Realtors, National Association of Realtors, Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate

4949 S. Niagara Street, Suite 400, Denver, CO 80237 � 303-886-2323

MARYJONESDENVER.COM

Ann Kerr

In a market replete with realtors, Ann Kerr stands out from the pack. With over $500 million in sales, she is proof of the power of relationships. Ann’s 25-year tenure in the industry reflects the type of staying power that can only be achieved through honesty, integrity and unrelenting authenticity. She answers phone calls and emails directly. It’s extremely important to her that she take responsibility for every detail of every transaction. Ann specializes in helping buyers and sellers with all types of residential properties—from acreage estates in the Villages, bungalows in Washington Park to high rise condos downtown and townhouses in Cherry Creek. Ann’s goal is to give each buyer or seller a sense of complete satisfaction with their dealings and to enjoy the ride along the way.

SPECIALIZATIONS Resident in Cherry Hills Village for 30 Years. Expert in Observatory Park, Cherry Creek, Washington Park, Cherry Hills Village, Greenwood village and more. Luxury, Downsizing, Investment Properties, Relocation, First-Time Home Buyers.

AFFILIATIONS +AWARDS Denver Metro Association of Realtors

Professional Standards Committee Member, Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate, Cherry Hills Village Planning & Zoning Commission, Swim Across America, University of Oklahoma Alumni Association, The John Lynch Foundation, PIVOT, University of Denver Lacrosse

KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE

KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE

Karen Seitz

COMPASS REAL ESTATE

Karen Seitz is a dedicated REALTOR® who passionately helps clients achieve their mountain real estate dreams. Originating from Minnesota, she embodies a strong Midwest work ethic and a profound love for the outdoors. This brought her to Breckenridge in 2011.

With a robust background in Sales and Marketing, Karen brings a wealth of knowledge to her clients. Her ambitious and goal-oriented approach has produced outstanding success, closing over $234M in sales since 2020.

Karen’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. She is a Global Luxury Certified Agent and was honored as one of the Best Real Estate Professionals by Real Trends America, an accolade reserved for the top 1.5% agents nationwide. She is also a member of the prestigious Realm ® networking group, where she seamlessly closed referrals from multiple states.

Beyond her accomplishments, Karen fully embraces the mountain lifestyle through activities like trail racing, road biking, and skinning on her mountain ranch. She is deeply committed to her community, volunteering at Copper Mountain, the Summit County Animal Shelter, Summit Laps, and fostering dogs for The Good Dog Rescue.

Karen’s disarming sincerity, optimism, and authentic personality forge lasting connections with her clients and referring agents. With Karen Seitz as your trusted guide, you can confidently navigate the real estate market in Breckenridge and Summit County. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing in this stunning area, Karen is here to support you.

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

“Karen is a force of nature, and who you want on your side buying a gorgeous mountain home in such a hot, competitive market such as Summit County. Karen made it simple - from offering a home pre-listing, to negotiations, to the move in .... Karen and her team know the market, the builders and the homeowners in the area, and seal the deal with energy, enthusiasm and ease. No request goes unanswered. That Karen lives in, and supports her community in both real estate and charitable ventures is just the icing on the cake-- mountain living truly is her passion, and she makes dreams come true! Karen would be the first person we’d call to sell ... but Summit County isn’t a place you’ll ever want to leave.” - Amy B.

AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS

• GUILD Elite™ Designation from the Institute for Luxury Homes Marketing

• Realm ® Global Member

• Real Trends + Tom Ferry America’s Best Real Estate Professionals

• Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS)

• Global Luxury Certified Agent

Liz Richards

One of Denver’s Top 10 Brokers for the past eight years by the Denver Board of Realtors. As one of the leading real estate brokers in Denver, Janet Kritzer is dedicated to meeting your needs with the utmost level of sophistication and professionalism. She specializes in the luxury home market within all the neighborhoods of Cherry Hills Village. With skillful negotiation, refined sales strategies, and expansive knowledge of the area, it’s clear to see why Janet consistently ranks in the top individual sales for LIV Sotheby’s.

Call Janet to discuss how her experience will work for you

TOP 10 BROKER SINCE 2007 – DENVER METRO ASSOCIATION

WALL STREET JOURNAL TOP 500 AGENTS NATIONALLY AWARDED FIVE-STAR PROFESSIONAL SEVEN YEARS RUNNING

LUXURY HOME PROFFESIONAL WITH GLOBAL CAPABILITIES

Renowned for her tireless work ethic and undaunted tenacity, Liz Richards has been a top-producing Global Real Estate Advisor and Broker Associate since 2004. 95% of Liz’s business comes by way of referrals and repeat clients; she is proud to serve her clients in both the Denver Metro and Summit County markets. As a founding partner of The Elevated Living Group, Liz was recognized by the Denver Metro Association of Realtors for her significant contribution to sales in the Denver Metro Market in 2021 and 2022; the partnership ranked #2 and #3 by both sales volume and number of transactions. With a habit of setting records, Liz is uncompromisingly redefining the practice of luxury in her business. Her passion for the importance of homeownership and building wealth via real estate investing is the source of her drive and incredible energy to be the best of the best. Forever with her finger on the pulse of the market, Liz’s extensive knowledge and over 19 years of experience speaks for itself, constantly reaffirming her status as a “go-to” agent for buyers and sellers seeking an incomparable experience. Liz’s passion for art, culture, and food is nourished by the city life of Denver while her favorite activities of skiing, hiking, paddle boarding, and cycling are fulfilled with her treasured “mountain time” in Summit County.

SPECIALIZATIONS

Luxury Properties, Sellers, Buyers, Investors, Investment Properties, Mountain Properties, 1031 Exchanges, Relocation, New Construction, and First Time Home Buyers

Sana Wood & Jacci Geiger

Experience is Everything! Your time is valuable, you have high expectations, you want to spend your efforts concentrating on your core business and personal life. You want to sell your home for top dollar and enjoy the return on your investment. You want to buy your next home and make sure your needs are met. Your experienced, knowledgeable, and professional real estate agents are here for you. After all, Experience is Everything! Reach out for a free consultation at 303-881-3514 (Sana Wood) or 303-840-7777 (Jacci Geiger).

AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS

• Double Black Diamond 5280 Top Producers

• 5 Star Professional Awards for over 10 years

• Formerly Denver’s Top Team - #1 Team of 3-5 at Kentwood Real Estate 3 years in a row and closed over $157 million in 2021/2022

• Top 1% of Denver Realtors

• Over 40 years of Experience

PRODUCERS2023

tech

Julie Winger

KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE AT CHERRY CREEK

In her 22nd successful year in Real Estate Sales and Consulting, Julie is a third generation Colorado Native with deep roots first planted in the state by her greatgrandfather, Winter Fyfe, who came over from Scotland and ran the general store at the Tomboy Mine in Telluride. Julie’s grandfather was in the early mortgage business in Denver, and her Mom was one of Denver’s first iconic female Realtors. So, a deep love and knowledge of Denver Real Estate is in Julie’s blood. She is passionate about sharing her broad knowledge of Denver’s neighborhoods, history, and dynamic Real Estate market with her clients, Buyers and Sellers, first time and experienced.

Julie is known for her unrivaled negotiating skills, experience and competence in managing transactions, honesty, and work ethic. She prides herself on her personal hands-on approach and strict attention to detail. “My goal is to exceed expectations while providing an extremely high level of customer service, as together we achieve my valued clients’ Real Estate goals and objectives.”

SPECIALIZATIONS

Sellers and Buyers. All Denver Neighborhoods, Suburbs, and Front Range Communities. Historic Home Specialist, Luxury Home Specialist, Single Family Homes, Condos, Land.

AFFILIATIONS & AWARDS

Top 1.5% Individual Agent Nationally by Volume 2023, 5280 Black Diamond Award, DMAR Excellence Awards 2003-2023, Five Star Realtor Award - 12 Year Winner

303-946-2784

JULIEWINGER.COM | JULIEWINGER@KENTWOOD.COM

Kim Kouba: New Perspective Team Lead

COMPASS

New Perspective Team

COMPASS

Always coming from the perspective of lifelong real estate advisor, Kim and her team are here to guide you in this changing market regardless of your short or long term path. They’re a team of agents committed to caring for clients with solid analysis, gracious yet persistent negotiating, and innovative and common-sense problem solving. They are empowered by the financial and tech tools of Compass, but it’s the decades of deep relationships with clients and their community that helped them produce almost $100M in sales in 2021 and earn the Denver Metro Association of Realtors’ Diamond Level honor as one of the top producing teams in the metro area.

ASHLEY HOWLETT, TIFFANY BURKE, MEGAN DAVIS, LAURA HUDGINS, MARCY EASTMAN, DANELLE MORGAN, AND DIANNA MAY

KIM KOUBA (TEAM LEAD), JODY DONLEY (FOUNDER), LAURA HUDGINS, AMANDA MURPHY, CONSUELO SIDAS, JORDYNE BAILEY, AND TRACIE POLOSKY (TEAM OPS DIRECTOR)

KIM KOUBA

303-204-8215 | KIMKOUBA@NPRECO.COM

JODY DONLEY

720-290-8917 | JODY@NPRECO.COM

KIM KOUBA | 303-204-8215

KIM.KOUBA@COMPASS.COM

JODY DONLEY, KIM KOUBA, MELINDA HOWLETT,

Wendy Lee

Wendy specializes in buying and selling real estate in the Denver and surrounding areas. Offers an unparalleled level of market knowledge, expertise, service and integrity. A client-first philosophy. As a 30 year resident of the Denver/Cherry Hills Village area, she is a great source for school, community and neighborhood information. She is a third generation realtor and has a successful background in buying, selling, managing, and renovating residential and investment properties. “Wendy was a true professional in all aspects but perhaps more importantly was a friend and truly invested in helping us find the right home for our family. Very grateful.”

Anna Centron

Anna Centron is one of the most desired and dedicated agents in the industry, always striving to lead the field in research, innovation, and consumer education. Today’s buyers and sellers need a trusted resource that can guide them through the complex world of real estate. With Anna and The Agency’s extensive knowledge and commitment to providing only the best, most reliable, and timely information to their clients, she is your go-to source for real estate industry insight and advice.

AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS

• Top 1.5% of America’s Best Agents of 2022/2023 by RealTrends + Tom Ferry

• Real Producers Top 5%,

• Denver Professionals 40 under 40

• Real Estate Professional Accredited Agent with The Board of Regents Luxury Real Estate, Realtor®

• Member of Denver Metro Association of Realtors

• Member of National Association of Realtors

• America’s Best and HomeLight top 1% National Real Estate Professional

Jaryd Takushi

ALOHA REAL ESTATE

Trust Jaryd as your captain to navigate the waves of the Denver real estate market. Set sail with professionalism, integrity, transparency, and respect as the guiding stars of your real estate voyage. Expect personalized service tailored to your unique needs, whether you’re a first-time home buyer or a seasoned investor. Jaryd’s dedication and deep understanding of Denver’s diverse neighborhoods will ensure smooth sailing through a successful journey. Go out to sea with an agent who has been through hundreds of successful transactions over the last two decades.

Jaryd’s philanthropy goal for the 4th quarter is to raise $10,000 to help the ohana rebuilding Lahaina. #MauiStrong. Call TODAY to learn more about Aloha Real Estate.

Amanda Fein

COMPASS

Amanda skillfully integrates her tenacious energy, integrity, and analytical dexterity into every real estate transaction. She loves inspiring possibilities and enthusiastically exceeding her clients’ real estate needs and desires. Her professional expertise lies in adeptly navigating the experience for all buyers and sellers across the Front Range. While a top producer and always working, Amanda does enjoy a mountain getaway, is an avid hockey fan (Go Avs!), loves big dogs, and she has been a serial volunteer in Denver for nearly 25 years. Most importantly, she eagerly anticipates the opportunity to earn your trust and tirelessly fulfill your real estate desires.

ACCOLADES + AWARDS

• 5280 Double Diamond Top Producer 2022

• 2022 Five Star Professional

• 2018 Denver Business Journal Forty Under Forty

• Certified Negotiation Expert & More!

Let’s Connect!

720-935-5759

DESIREDENVER.COM

| AMANDA.FEIN@COMPASS.COM

Jonathan & Roy Lopez

GLERY ROSS GROUP

Roy and Jonathan Lopez form the Glery Ross Group at Kentwood Real Estate, a father and son team providing their clients over 50 years of real estate experience. This experience and market expertise ensure their clients receive knowledgeable guidance every step of the way. Their business is built around a client first approach, never losing sight of the personal nature of buying and selling a home.

The team’s mission, “Real Estate with a Purpose,” is the driving force behind the

Glery Ross Group. Jonathan and Roy care deeply about making a difference in the lives of their clients and their community. They strive to live a life of purpose and meaning and to run a business that reflects that mission.

5094 Trenton Street

Denver, CO 80238

303-378-2730

jaryd@aloharealestateco.com

ALOHAREALESTATECO.COM

Jonathan: 303-550-0802

jonathan@kentwood.com

Roy: 303-888-7800

roy@kentwood.com

GLERYROSSGROUP.COM

of Realtors. As one of the leading real estate brokers in Denver, Janet Kritzer is dedicated to meeting your needs with the utmost level of sophistication and professionalism. She specializes in the luxury home market within all the neighborhoods of Cherry Hills Village. With skillful negotiation, refined sales strategies, and expansive knowledge of the area, it’s clear to see why Janet consistently ranks in the top individual sales for LIV Sotheby’s.

Elaine Stucy

LIV

TOP 10 BROKER SINCE 2007 – DENVER METRO ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS

While I help sellers and buyers in all categories, my niches include the higher end of the market and acreage properties in the area. You can count on me for active listening, creative problem-solving, sincere enthusiasm, and discretion. I would be privileged to help you sell your home or find the property of your dreams!

WALL STREET JOURNAL TOP 500 AGENTS NATIONALLY

SPECIALIZATIONS

AWARDED FIVE-STAR PROFESSIONAL SEVEN YEARS RUNNING

Luxury homes and acreage properties in Douglas County

AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS

LUXURY HOME PROFFESIONAL WITH GLOBAL CAPABILITIES

Certified Residential Specialist

Certified Home Luxury Marketing Specialist

Master Certified Negotiation Expert

Realtor of the Year 2013

Past President Douglas Elbert Realtor Association

PHONE:

EMAIL: Janet@JanetKritzer.com

WEB: www.JanetKritzer.com

ADDRESS: 8000 E. Belleview Ave., Suite 200 Greenwood Village, CO 80111

413

Ben + Erin Rule

We are a husband & wife team with over 30 years of combined real estate experience who provide our clients with end-to-end expertise in complex real estate transactions, while building lifelong relationships along the way. As is the case in any great team, we bring different and complementary backgrounds and skill sets in marketing, sales, finance, and negotiation to our partnership, ensuring that each client receives the personal service, comprehensive information and professional guidance needed in the rapidly changing real estate market. A home sale or purchase is a significant milestone in anyone’s life, and we pride ourselves on making it an enjoyable, rewarding, and memorable time for each of our treasured clients. Once the purchase or sale is complete, we continue our relationships, becoming long-term trusted advisors and resource providers for anything real estate related. We welcome the opportunity to talk with you about your real estate journey.

SPECIALIZATIONS

• Metro Denver & Vail Valley Residential Properties including Luxury, Move-Up, First Time Buyers, Investment and Second Homes

AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS

• Consistent recipient of DMAR Excellence Award

• 5280 Top Producer, LIV Sotheby’s “Quarterly Best”

• Real Trends top 1.5% of real estate professionals in the country

Call Janet to discuss how her experience will work for you and your real estate needs.

Katie Hoster

LIV SOTHEBY’S

With over 18 years of success in luxury real estate, Katie brings a tireless client commitment and creative energy to her loyal clientele across the Front Range. By exceeding her clients’ expectations, she has earned a reputation for unmatched service and expertise, gaining new business from repeat clients and referrals. To Katie, real estate is more than a transaction, it’s a relationship, and she is honored to serve.

Jessica Reinhardt Vitcenda

RE/MAX ALLIANCE

As the President of the Denver Metro Association of Realtors, Jessica’s role with DMAR combines her passions for serving clients, being a subject matter expert on the real estate industry, and her love of volunteering and giving back to her community. A proud Denver native and 2nd generation REALTOR®, Jessica has been with RE/MAX Alliance for two decades. Her commitment to thoughtfully guiding her clients through the process of buying and selling a home has become the foundation of her business. Ensuring everyone can build generational wealth for their family is at the heart of Jessica’s approach. Her top priority is ensuring that clients are knowledgeable, confident, and have a clear understanding throughout the process of buying and selling a home. She works in the Metro Denver area, emphasizing the South Metro area where she has lived her entire life, raised her family, and has extensive knowledge of the communities and schools.

AFFILIATIONS + AWARDS

• President, Denver Metro Association of Realtors

• RE/MAX Hall of fame recipient

100 St. Paul Street, Suite 200 Denver, CO 80206

303-482-5928

katie@katiehoster.com

KATIEHOSTER.COM

Soley Maria

KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE

Unparalleled integrity, loyalty, and mastery in luxury real estate since 2013.

Boulder – Breckenridge – Vail – Cherry Creek

JANET KRITZER

303-549-1223

JESSICAREINHARDT@REMAX.NET

KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE

A recipient of the Denver Metro Association of Realtors® Award multiple years in a row, Stephanie attributes much of her success to a wide and loyal referral network, a reflection of her extensive industry expertise and unwavering dedication to client service.

970-401-0304 | soley@kentwood.com

SOLEYMARIA.COM

One of Denver’s Top 10 Brokers for the past eight years by the Denver Board of Realtors. As one of the leading real estate brokers in Denver, Janet Kritzer is dedicated to meeting your needs with the utmost level of sophistication and professionalism. She specializes in the luxury home market within all the neighborhoods of Cherry Hills Village. With skillful negotiation, refined sales strategies, and expansive knowledge of the area, it’s clear to see why Janet consistently ranks in the top individual sales for LIV Sotheby’s.

Call Janet to discuss how her experience will work for you and your real estate needs.

Olivia Casa Monday

TOP 10 BROKER SINCE 2007 – DENVER METRO ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS

LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

WALL STREET JOURNAL TOP 500 AGENTS NATIONALLY

AWARDED FIVE-STAR PROFESSIONAL SEVEN YEARS RUNNING

LUXURY HOME PROFFESIONAL WITH GLOBAL CAPABILITIES

Olivia has built her business on her collaborative, detailed, full concierge services approach to client care and deep values that establish trust. Everyone she represents appreciates her above-and-beyond service, attentive listening, and knowledge of the greater Denver area.

303-885-4746 | stephanie@kentwood.com

STEPHANIELEPARD.COM

PHONE: EMAIL: WEB:

ADDRESS: Greenwood Village, CO 80111

720-308-6669 | omonday@livsothebysrealty.com

OLIVIAMONDAY.LIVSOTHEBYSREALTY.COM

KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE

Andrea Bell TRUSTED | RESPECTED | CONNECTED

Providing outstanding customer service through honest hard work is the cornerstone of my business. Effective communication, knowledge, dedication and detailed execution is what makes my transactions successful.

303-748-7299 | Andrea@Kentwood.com ANDREABELLHOMES.COM

Nancy Greager

COMPASS REAL ESTATE

Award-Winning. Top-Producing. Experienced.

Nancy Greager, an award-winning real estate professional, draws upon more than two decades of real estate sales and marketing experience when helping buyers and sellers with their real estate needs. This background, coupled with her outstanding market knowledge, work ethic and negotiation skills, allows Nancy to provide exceptional real estate experiences for her clients. Whether you are considering your first or fiftieth move, Nancy welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to present her unparalleled marketing tools and expertise to assist in achieving your real estate goals.

• 5280 Top Producers Award in 2023

• REAL PRODUCERS Top 200 Denver Agent in 2022

• Repeat Denver Metro Association of Realtors Excellence Award Winner Since 2007

• FIVE STAR Real Estate Agent 2010-2023

Luke Gordon

RE/MAX OF CHERRY CREEK

“The Name That Sells Denver”

• Five-star Professional Award Last 11 years for Outstanding Customer Service

• Selling Denver’s Finest City Neighborhoods

• Five-star Client Reviews

• Concierge Client Service

303-506-6999 | luke@denvercityhomes.com facebook.com/lukegordondenverrealestate DENVERCITYHOMES.COM

Carla Bartell

CORCORAN PERRY & CO.

Carla will give your Real Estate transaction the attention it deserves. Experience • Excellence

• Named in the Top 1.5% of Real Estate Professionals in the US, 2023 RealTrends

720-938-9001

nancy@nancygreager.com

NANCYGREAGER.COM

5280’s Realtor Profiles special advertising section delivers direct access to Denver’s affluent and educated market. Contact Ari Ben to discuss advertising opportunities in 5280’s May 2024 issue.

303-884-4550 | carla@corcoranperry.com

PERR.CO/CARLA

Koji-cured beets and fermented peach nam jim with nori, kelp caviar, and chile costeño (a rare Oaxacan pepper) at Brutø

The Michelin Guide may have landed on the Front Range in 2023, but local chefs don’t need stars to prove their worth. The innovative dishes coming out of kitchens across metro Denver are all the evidence we need to say that the Mile High City is a culinary force. Here’s where to dig in this year.

BY PATRICIA KAOWTHUMRONG & ETHAN PAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT NAGER

restaurants best

CAN T INA LOCA

LOHI ◆ At Cantina Loca, there are no cliff divers, arcades, or caves—features associated with Dana Rodriguez’s latest endeavor. Instead, the casual LoHi bar and restaurant specializes in the straightforward Mexican cuisine and well-made drinks that put the F-bomb-dropping chef on the map long before a table at Casa Bonita became the most coveted reservation in town. While you can also taste Rodriguez’s food at RiNo’s Work & Class and Super Mega Bien, we’ve become partial to nearly two-year-old Cantina Loca for epitomizing the Chihuahua, Mexico–born chef’s culinary range and fiery personality (after all, Loca is her nickname). Her prowess in the kitchen translates to a tempting roster of tacos (try the cabrito, slow-braised goat with avocado salsa) and shareable must-haves such as the molcajete: bone-in chicken, pork wing, and steak engulfed in a bubbling salsa verde with melty asadero cheese. A cocktail spiked with Doña Loca mezcal or tequila, Rodriguez’s line of agave spirits, should loosen up your crew enough to inspire some easy laughs. In short, Cantina Loca is a good time all around—without the sideshow. $$, 2890 Zuni St., 303-284-6738

HIGHLAND ◆ Ounjit Hardacre knows she can’t dampen diners’ infatuations with pad thai, green curry, and other ubiquitous takeout staples. But the chef-owner of four-year-old Daughter Thai aims to at least expand their palates. With the help of business partner Dueanphen Rungrueang, Hardacre conjures up recipes based on specialties she craves from her homeland in western Thailand’s Kanchanaburi province and techniques she gleans from regular visits to the Land of Smiles. The results are revolving offerings that are difficult to find elsewhere in Denver, such as miang pla yang, a whole trout grilled in banana leaves and designed to be devoured in lettuce cups with a parade of accoutrements, including crunchy cashews, fried onions, and nam jim (a tangy-spicy dipping sauce of lime, fish sauce, and Thai chiles). Also look for inventive preparations of gyoza, such as the gin gyo—pork dumplings and egg noodles nestled in red curry—a nod to a trend that’s popping up all over Bangkok right now. The dishes play well with the restaurant’s tried-and-true favorites, such as larb and pineapple fried rice, which you won’t be able to get enough of. $$$, 1700 Platte St., Suite 140, 720-667-4652

PRICE KEY

Average

$ – Less than $20

$$ – $21 to $30

$$$ – $31 to $40 $$$$ – $41 or more

RINO ◆ When you ask foodie Front Rangers about their favorite dishes at Safta, the answers might be the cloudlike pita with velvety, soft-boiled-egg-topped hummus or the fluffy, emerald-tinted falafel. Or they might wax poetic about the modern Israeli restaurant’s crispy Persian rice bejeweled with cherries and sunflower seeds or the tender salmon with garlicky toum (Lebanon’s answer to aïoli). The consistent praise is a testament to chef-owner Alon Shaya’s knack for churning out reliably craveworthy plates at the five-year-old mainstay inside the Source Hotel & Market Hall. If you don’t already have your most cherished plates picked out, you can create your own list by reserving a table for dinner and ordering whatever looks tasty from the large menu. Or you could opt for the brunch buffet, which is a curated smorgasbord of Shaya’s greatest hits, including the best latkes in town, a parade of dips, house-smoked salmon and whitefishes, roasted lamb shoulder, and a table of baked goods (don’t miss the apricot turmeric scones). $$$$, the Source Hotel & Market Hall, 3330 Brighton Blvd., 720-408-2444

SAF TA

LOHI ◆ If there’s one Denver restaurant that’s making the case for breakfast being the most important meal of the day, it’s Fox and the Hen. In June, co-owners Michael Fox and Carrie Baird turned the griddle on at their playful morning joint where, among azure tiles, custom fox-and-hen-decorated wallpaper, and five shelves stocked with grab-your-own hot sauces, Baird delivers nostalgic diner-esque dishes laced with a sense of humor. Crowd-pleasers include the Lox and Cakes (sauerkraut pancakes crowned with brined salmon, cream cheese, everything spice, and herbs) and the Beat Bobby Flay-vos (Baird’s winning version of huevos rancheros with fiery chorizo and salsa verde from an episode of Food Network’s Beat Bobby Flay). A few homages to fast food, including the American-cheese-hollandaise-drizzled Le Big Mac Omelette, are evidence Baird and Fox don’t take themselves too seriously, yet the polished cooking techniques and balanced accompaniments prove that the self-proclaimed “egg cookery snobs” aren’t messing around, either. The combination of satire and savvy makes for early day eats that are breezy and delicious. $$, 2257 W. 32nd Ave., 303-862-6795

FOX AND THE HEN

Mural by John Hastings @RUMTUM

LoHi's Cantina Loca was the third restaurant chef Dana Rodriguez opened in Denver.

A STEAKHOUSE

LODO ◆ Indulgence and value are a possibility at A5 Steakhouse. In fact, you can get a satisfying meal for two at two-year-old A5, chef Max MacKissock’s casual, tablecloth-less approach to the chophouse experience, for under $50 a person.

Start with two appetizers: the beef tartare katsu sando and the honey-glazed chickpea fries infused with Calabrian chile and spring garlic. Then split a lower-priced but still well-marbled and boldly flavored cut of beef like the 10-ounce bavette, which comes with an umami-rich house sauce. Bolster your meal with a pair of nonmeaty sides that set themselves apart from those produced by neighboring steak-vending peers, such as double-blanched french fries and mac and cheese croquettes with sweet Nardello pepper jam. Adult beverages will certainly push you over the triple-digit mark, but even if you’re compelled to order your second (or third) draft martini or negroni—only $10 each during happy hour, daily from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.—you can at least rest assured that your meal was worth every cent. $$$$, 1600 15th St., 303-623-0534

HIGHLAND AND SPEER ◆

Pan-Asian menus suffer when chefs lack a handle on how to create harmony between ingredients and dishes from across the continent, but at Uncle, whose Highland and Wash Park locations opened in 2012 and 2019, respectively, chef-owner Tommy Lee showcases his mastery of East and Southeast Asian flavors. Case in point: The soft-shell crab buns unite Japanese panko-crusted crustaceans and cilantro-zinged nam prik (a type of Thai chile sauce) to mouthwatering effect. And despite primarily being a ramen shop, Uncle frequently triumphs without relying on its (delicious) shoyu and sesame broths. Try the Sichuan-style dan dan noodles, introduced this summer, which feature a tongue-tingling chile sauce, ground pork, Chinese broccoli, peanuts, scallions, and a poached egg. The sweat-inducing entrée is so satisfying that it warrants any errant stains on your T-shirt, a sign of good eats in any culture. $$, 2215 W. 32nd Ave., 303-433-3263; 95 S. Pennsylvania St., 720-638-1859

UNCLE

NOISETTE RESTAURANT & BAKERY

LOHI ◆ Upon entry to 2,800-square-foot Noisette, which opened off Tejon Street in August 2022, diners are transported to a dazzling Parisian oasis bedecked with white marble tables, pastel pink and baby blue chairs, and gold accents. Vintage images of flowers and felines and rows of mirrors hang on the cream-colored walls above amber banquettes, and petite vases hold delicate blossoms from Denver’s Rowdy Poppy. Chef-owners Tim and Lillian Lu are the husband-and-wife team behind the beauty, a vision brought to life with the help of local design firm LivStudio. The Lus—both alums of the French Culinary Institute in New York—extend the same attention to detail displayed in the ambience to the brasserie’s menu, which features comforting French cuisine upgraded with elegant touches. Expect custardy scrambled eggs showered in sliced truffles for brunch and Dover sole bathed in escargot butter and sliced grass-fed ribeye with bordelaise sauce for dinner, all presented on floral-patterned plates that Lillian sourced from local antique stores. Très chic, indeed. $$$, 3254 Navajo St., 720-769-8103

CITY PARK ◆ Since opening in 2019, Misfit Snackbar has been a stalwart in a burgeoning dining scene on East Colfax Avenue that includes three-monthold modern Vietnamese palace Sắp Sửa, one-year-old diner-turned-cocktail-bar Tom’s Starlight, and Misfit chef-owner Bo Porytko’s second restaurant, sixmonth-old Molotov Kitschen & Cocktails. Despite Misfit’s tiny size (the concept and its roughly 200-square-foot kitchen are housed entirely within Middleman bar), Porytko and head chef Rico Carbajal, who was promoted to the position in May, continue to churn out flavors that are anything but diminutive. Swipe corn-pudding-filled tempura squash blossoms through herbaceous green goddess dressing or slice through the egg foo Benedict—an open-face shao bing (Chinese flatbread) layered with browned omelet eggs, red miso gravy, black bean chile crisp, and pickled Fresno chiles—for maximum gustatory impact. Fortunately, Misfit keeps sweet snackers’ palates in mind, too. Bites such as the nostalgia-inducing and saccharine-in-a-good-way Fruity Pebbles tres leches cake complement Middleman’s liquid end-of-dinner treats: Montucky and Sfumato amaro boilermakers, must-haves for any East Colfax Avenue crawl. $$, 3401 E. Colfax Ave., 303-353-4207

Pair the entrecôte— a rib-eye with bordelaise sauce and pommes purée—with the cognacinfused Fiope cocktail at Noisette.

LUCINA EATERY & BAR

PARK HILL ◆ Erasmo Casiano and Diego Coconati originally planned to serve pastas and Burrata at Lucina Eatery & Bar. “We were hesitant to open a Latin American restaurant,” Casiano says. “The first edition of Lucina was going to be more Italian, as it’s more approachable.” But encouragement from friends pushed the business partners to cook eats influenced by their own backgrounds instead. (Casiano’s parents are from Mexico and Bolivia, and Coconati’s childhood was rooted in Argentina and Puerto Rico.) Since Lucina debuted in Park Hill in March 2022, the duo has inspired diners to delve into the cultures of Latin America, Spain, and the Caribbean through an original brand of fusion cuisine presented in a lively atmosphere. Popular items such as empanadas and mussels with chorizo are prepared with care, but to unlock the menu’s full potential, venture into less familiar territory. The bold flavors layered into dishes like the pollo a la brasa (chicken seasoned with earthy achiote and fragrant herbs) make us grateful Casiano and Coconati didn’t follow through with their original plans. $$$, 2245 Kearney St., 720-814-1053

TOCABE, AN AMERICAN INDIAN EAT ERY

SUNNYSIDE ◆ This year, Tocabe owners Ben Jacobs (a member of the Osage Nation) and Matthew Chandra gave us the chance to celebrate an occasion we usually mourn: the closing of a restaurant. When the pair converted the Greenwood Village location of their 15-year-old fast-casual eatery into a pilot fulfillment center for the business’ growing online marketplace for Native-produced bison and pantry goods, it felt like a win for everyone. What’s more, the production facility is helping Tocabe expand its directto-tribe, ready-to-eat meal program—currently delivering more than 1,100 meals monthly to the Spirit Lake Nation in North Dakota—to other tribal communities and bring the program to non-Native consumers later this year. Fortunately, for fans of the brand’s fast-casual renditions of Indigenous fare, the Sunnyside outpost still delivers favorites such as stuffed fry bread filled with annatto-marinated chicken from Englewood-based Red Bird Farms, stewed beans, and cheddar cheese, which comes drizzled with ancho chipotle sauce, sour cream, and your choice of house salsas. According to Jacobs, that restaurant isn’t going anywhere, giving us another reason to rejoice. $, 3536 W. 44th Ave., 720-524-8282

Tofu Story’s ganjanggejang, soy-saucemarinated crab, is a finger-licking accompaniment to the eatery’s tofu stews and grilled meats.

AURORA ◆ Everyone needs a go-to restaurant, a reliable locale for relishing in mouthwatering meals with companions of all stripes, from family members to co-workers to first dates. For many Denverites, that spot is seven-year-old Annette at Aurora’s Stanley Marketplace. There, chef-owner Caroline Glover has built a gathering place for happy hours with martinis and popcorn, catch-up sessions over juicy burgers and crunchy fries, and slow Sunday suppers of golden-skinned roast chicken—experiences heightened with fine-dining touches and ingredients sourced from Colorado farms and ranches. So whether your dining mates are little ones nibbling on the Parmesan-sprinkled butter cavatelli from the kids’ menu or out-of-towners splurging on the caviar service with Ruffles and onion cream, you know everyone will leave full and happy, especially if you order up a round of ice cream sandwiches for dessert. $$$, Stanley Marketplace, 2501 Dallas St., Aurora, 720-710-9975

AURORA ◆ Korean chef-restaurateur J.W. Lee’s culinary empire under Seoul Hospitality Group spans 25 Asian concepts across the Denver metro area and Colorado Springs. But nine-month-old Tofu Story, a sleek, wood-accented spot on Aurora’s Havana Street, is the standout. “When I came to the United States, I saw [how American dining is] diversifying to all different kinds of cuisines,” Lee says. “I thought it might be a good chance to introduce Korean food to the American market.” Tofu Story’s unique draw is its in-house tofu program—the only one of its kind on the Front Range. We recommend making soondubu jjigae, spicy soft tofu stew served bubbling in a stone pot studded with pork belly, seafood, or other additions, the center of any meal you take here. Still, other rare-in-Denver dishes like ganjanggejang (soy-sauce-marinated raw crab), gamja-jeon (a crispy yet chewy potato pancake), and individual-size, pressurecooked rice (which turns extra creamy in a tableside vessel) show off the breadth of Korean cuisine in ways few other Colorado restaurants do. $$, 2060 S. Havana St., Aurora, 303-954-9372

AFRICAN GRILL & BAR

LAKEWOOD ◆ African Grill & Bar—Theodora and Sylvester Osei-Fordwuo’s 19-year-old mecca of Pan-African cuisine, which had locations in Aurora and Green Valley Ranch before finding a permanent home in Lakewood in 2021—has long impressed Denverites with its soups and stews starring ingredients like tender pieces of bone-in goat and silky cassava leaves. This year, however, we found particular joy in the warm hospitality of the laid-back, largely family-run joint replete with Afrocentric decor. “Everybody’s welcome through our door,” Theodora says. “Our goal is to make people exposed to our food and our culture.” Theodora and Sylvester and their three children, Nana, Maame, and Oheneba, are happy to guide customers through the 60-plusitem menu, although you can’t go wrong with the samosas or the “Denver’s best chicken,” two steamed-then-fried drumsticks seasoned with anise seed, fermented African locust bean, and peppery grains of Selim, accompanied by fried plantains or tomatoey jollof rice. Don’t worry about missing out on another item; save it for your inevitable next visit. $$, 955 S. Kipling Parkway, Lakewood, 303-985-4497

CONGRESS PARK ◆ Three-month-old Sắp Sửa is an ode to the cross-cultural upbringing of chef-owner Tuan “Ni” Nguyen, a California native born to immigrants from Vietnam. Ni and his wife, Anna (the eatery’s co-owner and pastry chef), work with a 12-person kitchen staff to craft nontraditional interpretations of the cuisine of Vietnam. The fruits of their labor—coconut-caramel-glazed hamachi collar, chrysanthemum salad with cane sugar vinaigrette, and smoketinged charred cabbage—are upscale versions of the Southeast Asian fare that are not only found infrequently in Denver but also reflect Ni’s roots. For example, the eggs scrambled with brown butter and fish sauce with trout roe is a gussied-up version of a dish that the first-generation American toted to school in his lunchbox but ate in secret for fear of being teased by his classmates. The Nguyens’ talent for honoring such stories through bright ingredients and well-honed techniques makes every bite feel special. And for some, it truly is. “We had a woman at the end of the bar cry because she ate rice and fish sauce from a porcelain dish,” Ni says. “That’s what we’ve always wanted for this restaurant: to represent Vietnamese food in a beautiful dining room and in a skilled setting.” $$$, 2550 E. Colfax Ave., 303-736-2303

Theodora and Sylvester Osei-Fordwuo introduced Denver to the vibrant flavors of West African cuisine in 2004.

LA DIABLA PO S OLE Y ME S CAL

BALLPARK ◆ Mexico City native Jose Avila’s culinary chops at La Diabla (which earned him a James Beard Foundation nod earlier this year) are on full display whenever you decide to stop inside the plasticchairs-casual spot. The three-year-old Ballpark pozoleria serves up hearty bowls of the classic Mexican soup every day, but the weekly specials make a strong case for planning your visit during specific times. Stop in on Tuesdays for $3 street-size versions of the restaurant’s 13 taco varieties, or for the best bargain, opt for the Wednesday special: two tortillas filled with pork al pastor freshly shaved off the spit and a house margarita for a scant $5. Thursday through Sunday, La Diabla cooks tasty brunch plates, including four different versions of chilaquiles, but if you can’t make it before 2 p.m., the happy hour immediately afterward is also worth a visit. From 2 to 6 p.m., try any number of La Diabla’s agave spirits through discounted cocktails and beer-and-shot combos, then splurge on a $5, roasted, boat-cut beef bone and split the unctuous marrow among a few chicharrón-dusted carnitas tacos for a true meat-lover’s delight. $, 2233 Larimer St., 720-827-4158

RINO ◆ Typically, high-end sushi restaurants aren’t an obvious choice for vegetarians. At five-year-old Uchi, though, the team makes sure meatless diners still have access to some of the best items on the menu. Take the handheld house salad: The bundle of greens, radishes, green onions, toasted rice, cashew pesto, and jalapeño-edamame purée is just as satisfying as any fish-filled hand roll. Seasonal mushrooms and an egg yolk beef up the kinoko nabe, a pilaflike rice dish presented in a clay pot, into a hearty, umami-rich entrée. For the ultimate plant-based indulgence, ask for the market-price, six-course vegetarian tasting menu—which is reworked every two months in a collaborative process across the kitchen and service staff led by chef de cuisine Andres Araujo—to minimize your dinnertime decision-making. All you have to do is select a beverage (try one of 30 available sake varieties) and you can enjoy a luxurious night out without having to become a pescatarian for the night. $$$$, 2500 Lawrence St., 303-444-1922

LODO ◆ The turntables are almost as big of a draw as the pours at Sunday Vinyl. That means whether you’re lingering over a glass of French bubbles at the horseshoe-shaped marble bar or sharing a spread of oysters and wagyu beef tartare in a corner booth, you’ll likely find yourself welcoming a pause in the conversation to catch what’s humming through the speakers. The head-bobbing ambience, where anything from Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill to Nas’ Life Is Good could be spinning in full throwback glory, is courtesy of the three-anda-half-year-old Union Station wine bar’s partnership with Vinyl Me, Please, the Denver-based record-of-the-month club, and Sunday Vinyl’s tunes-loving team. Lead sommelier Clara Klein, chef de cuisine David Zboray, and pastry chef Korinna Mahan have great taste in music, which is outshined only by their culinary talents, which particularly sing during events such as Wednesday flight nights. On those evenings, you can linger over selections of wine centered on a specific musical genre, artist, or album complemented by playful bites such as duck-liver-filled gougères (cheese puffs) and smoked-meringue-cloaked s’mores baked Alaska. $$$$, 1803 16th Street Mall, 720-738-1803

COMAL HERITAGE FOOD INCUBATOR

RINO ◆ After moving into a new, light-drenched indoor-outdoor space at RiNo Art Park this past July, Comal Heritage Food Incubator is bigger and better than ever. In addition to doubling its seating capacity for diners, the sevenyear-old restaurant and culinary training program (part of Focus Points Family Resource Center, a nonprofit committed to supporting low-income families in the northeast Denver area) got an upgraded commercial kitchen and commissary space with refrigerated lockers, multiple deep fryers, and an expanded prep area. That means the food incubator’s participants—immigrant and refugee women from Syria, Venezuela, Mexico, and other countries who learn how to open and run successful food businesses by sharing the cuisines of their native lands with Denverites—have more opportunities to hone their skills. The expansion is also a boon for diners: In addition to serving lunch prepared by participants from Tuesday through Friday, Comal now offers breakfast from 8 to 10 a.m. and plans to add a full bar in the coming months. Until then, enjoy comforts such as chorizo and egg breakfast burritos; the plato caribe, lightly battered and fried fish accompanied by tostones (fried green plantains) and coleslaw; and pupusas spiced up with house-made hot sauce. $, 1950 35th St., 303-292-0770

At Brutø, savor beautiful desserts such as nicuatole, a creamy Oaxacan custard made with ground maize and sugar.

LODO ◆ Chef-owner Kelly Whitaker’s Brutø has evolved and matured in all the best ways since it entered the scene in late 2019. Three years ago, he transformed the Dairy Block venue, originally a daytime eatery slinging woodfired bites, into an 18-seat tasting counter helmed by chef Michael Diaz de Leon, who gained a James Beard Foundation Award nomination for his culinary craftiness earlier this year. At Brutø’s omakase-style meals, diners are seated around the hearth-oven-centered kitchen, where the team uses sustainably sourced produce, seafood, and game to build edible works of art driven by Diaz de Leon’s Latin American roots as well as Japanese techniques and culinary traditions. For the ultimate experience, opt for the drink pairings, which, on one of the nights we visited, saw an ash margarita bring out the smoky notes of a bison tenderloin set atop mole negro congee with salsa macha and veal demi-glace.The thoughtful execution of each course will remind you that the LoDo spot is all grown up. $$$$, 1801 Blake St., 720-325-2195

BLACKBELLY BRUTØ

BOULDER ◆ For nine years, Hosea Rosenberg’s restaurant and meat market Blackbelly has been a Boulder staple for in-house, whole-animal butchery, providing locavore-friendly meats to lovers of dining in and eating at home alike. The closing of a Quiznos next door in 2021, though, allowed Blackbelly to expand its market this past March into a new space, which now stocks Haxtun-based Dutch Oven Smokehouse barbecue sauces, pickles from Denver’s Real Dill, house-baked breads, and other retail goods, in addition to Blackbelly’s tried-and-true meats, charcuterie, and cheeses.Take advantage of the newly extended operating hours to indulge in the spot’s breakfast and lunch options through the weekend. Our latest go-tos include the breakfast burrito filled with eggs, green chile, tater tots, cheese, and head butcher Kelly Kawachi’s choice of protein, and the banh mi, with roasted and smoked pork, assorted herbs and veggies, and spicy mayo inside a Vienna roll from nearby Breadworks. Take them to go or devour your selections in the sunny dining room. $$$, 1606 Conestoga St., Boulder, 303-247-1000

SPUNTINO

HIGHLAND ◆ The Mile High City is blessed with a bounty of Italian restaurants, from white-tablecloth stalwarts to casual red-sauce joints and everything in between. Nine-year-old Spuntino, however, is in a category all its own. At the Highland restaurant, you can get the usual eats—housemade focaccia, imported Burrata with seasonal embellishments, deep-fried arancini—but it’s the specialties injected with Indian flavors inspired by chef-owner Cindhura Reddy’s heritage that elevate Spuntino above its peers. Delectable examples include raviolini filled with creamy Robiola Bosina cheese and sweet medjool dates and local striped bass with harissa-roasted carrots. Reddy’s spice-laden dishes, matched with husband Elliot Strathmann’s deep selection of creative cocktails, thoughtfully sourced wines, and post-dinner-worthy amaros, have broadened the definition of Italian cuisine in Denver. That is a tasty feat we are certainly thankful for. $$$, 2639 W. 32nd Ave., 303-433-0949

BOULDER ◆ Dining at Frasca Food and Wine is always a lesson in language: The eightcourse tasting menu, driven by the flavors of Friuli-Venezia Giulia (a region of northeastern Italy), starts with assaggi, or a trio of artful “samplings,” before moving on to impossible consonant combinations such as the pljukanci di grano saraceno, a palm-rolled, penne-length buckwheat pasta dressed in delicately fishy glass eel and dandelion pesto. But perhaps the most important word for the fine-dining juggernaut is the name itself. Frasca, meaning “bough,” refers to tree branches that hang outside traditional farmhouses in Friuli to indicate that customers are welcome to come in for casual bites and local wine. While the Boulder restaurant serves anything but simple fare, more than ever before, executive chef Ian Palazzola (who rose to the position in April) has managed to whittle down its plates so that every component tastes purposeful. Yes, there are still touches of caviar and gold leaf here and there, but now the indulgences feel in line with the restaurant’s inspirational namesake. $$$$, 1738 Pearl St., Boulder, 303-442-6966

FRASCA

FOOD AND WINE

URBAN VILLAGE GRILL

LONE TREE ◆ While chef Charles Mani’s Urban Village Grill has become synonymous with refined Indian dining in the Denver metro area over the past two years, his eye for innovation—combined with his predisposition to culinary ennui—means there’s always something new on the menu. If you’re there for happy hour, start your group off with the pani puri appetizer, which reimagines the Indian street food of potato-, chickpea-, and onion-filled dough balls by eschewing a traditionally communal bowl of flavored water for dipping and instead perching the crispy bites on shot glasses filled with a mixture infused with mint and tamarind. Or pick from the Indo-Chinese portion of the menu, which highlights the hybrid cuisine that developed when Chinese workers immigrated to eastern India in the late 18th century. Through dishes such as Chinese bhel, fried noodles tossed with onion, tomato, soy sauce, ketchup, and sambal, the chef introduces Denverites to flavors and traditions they won’t find at other Front Range restaurants. $$, 8505 Park Meadows Center Drive, Lone Tree, 720-536-8565

STONE CELLAR BISTRO

ARVADA ◆ Instead of adding to the long list of farm-to-table venues in Denver and Boulder, hospitality veterans and friends Brandon Kerr and Jordan Alley decided to set up shop in Olde Town Arvada in summer 2022. “We were trying to bring more elevated cuisine to the area, where it didn’t seem like we’d be competing with anybody,” says Kerr, who met Alley cooking French fare at LoHi’s now-shuttered Z Cuisine. Their strategy paid off: Patrons fill the restaurant’s contemporary dining room to linger over beautifully composed plates built around the seasonal bounty of local purveyors. Start dinner with the audibly crispy, hot-honey-laced fried chicken or the foie gras parfait encased in lemon curd and adorned with basil, strawberries, and honey-roasted peanuts. Then move on to an entrée such as the roasted halibut, which is smothered in a lemony sauce with juicy confit tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs. A friendly waitstaff (led by maître d’ and Fruition alum Jenne Harris) complements the polished lineup of food and drink, for which suburbanites and city dwellers are flocking to Arvada. $$$, 2605 Grandview Ave., Arvada, 720-630-7908

LYONS ◆ You won’t find trendy caviar bumps, fussy foams, or other fine-dining frills on the menu at 15-month-old Marigold. But the charming establishment situated in the small town of Lyons achieves its own form of sophistication through chef Theo Adley’s simple presentations of well-harmonized flavors. The plate of thinly shaved speck and creamy Taleggio—adorned with nothing but a drizzle of olive oil—is the picture of European countryside dining and perfectly matches Marigold’s rustic, 38-seat dining room. We suggest ordering the crispy farinata (chickpea crêpe) finished with wine-soaked cheese and pink peppercorn, the hanger steak with smashed potatoes and rotating accompaniments, and any amaro-based cocktail to round out your meal. The drive out to Lyons may take more than an hour for Denverites, so let the quaint, farm-lined roads set the mood (and build your hunger) for the destination. $$$, 405 Main St., Lyons, 303-823-2333 m

Don't miss the foie gras parfait, a decadent duck liver appetizer, and the gin-forward Palisade Peach Cappelletti at Stone Cellar Bistro.

GUNS YOUNG

AN UNPRECEDENTED NUMBER OF FIREARMS ARE BEING CONFISCATED AT DENVER SCHOOLS, YOUTH-ON-YOUTH HOMICIDES ARE UP ACROSS THE METRO AREA, AND PARENTS, STUDENTS, AND TEACHERS ALL FEAR THAT THIS SCHOOL YEAR COULD BRING EVEN MORE GUN VIOLENCE. WHAT’S BEHIND THE PROLIFERATION OF FIREARMS AMONG ADOLESCENTS AROUND THE MILE HIGH CITY—AND IS THERE ANYTHING ANYONE CAN DO ABOUT IT? BY

CHRIS WALKER ILLUSTRATIONS BY THE HEADS OF STATE

But if an assailant did breach the upper classrooms? López realizes escaping would be tough; it’s a long jump from three stories up.

López says these types of survival scenarios pop into her head randomly at school, but for fellow North junior, 16-year-old Veneno

Quezada-Montoya, they’re constant. “Every time I’m in school, I always take a mental note of every single exit, every single window that I can find,” he says. Both teens are part of a generation that has practiced lockdown drills for as long as they can remember, and

their fear of school shootings is the rule rather than the exception. Ask any high schooler in America today and they’ll almost certainly tell you the same thing: They’re scared to death of dying by bullets.

That ever-present anxiety provided the backdrop when, on the morning of March 22, word spread through Denver Public Schools (DPS) that something was wrong at East High School. The building’s nearly 2,600 students were on lockdown. Two deans had been shot and wounded. And a manhunt was underway for the suspect, a 17-year-old student who opened fire as administrators attempted to search him for weapons. All of this was happening just weeks after another East High School student, Luis Garcia, had died from gunshot wounds after a shooting near campus.

Taken together, the incidents at East attracted national media attention, which to López and Quezada-Montoya felt somewhat surreal. Although neither North student discounts the gravity of what happened across town at East, they wondered, How is it that people were only now paying attention to the gun violence that constantly surrounds Denver’s young people, especially students of color?

At North High School, which has 80 percent minority enrollment compared with East’s 48 percent, the students describe multiple gun scares during the 2022-’23 school year that never received any news coverage. Take September 24’s homecoming dance, when attendees panicked—some running for safety—when rumors circulated that one student had been spotted with a weapon. According to DPS spokesperson Bill Good, “The student ran off school property before staff and safety could confront them.” A few months later, at a December 13 basketball game, there was another reported firearm sighting—this time resulting in Denver Police Department (DPD) officers being called on scene. No weapons were recovered, but after that incident, North increased the use of metal detectors in its gymnasium during games over concerns about the safety of attendees.

But as disquieting as on-campus guns are, teenagers most often fall victim to them outside of the educational setting. On October 15, 2022, 17-year-old North senior Alaina Martinez was attending a house party in Adams County when a drive-by shooter sprayed bullets into a crowd of teenagers. Eight young people were hit, including students from Westminster Public Schools. Seven were fortunate enough to survive the incident; Martinez died from her injuries.

PORTRAITS BY SARAH BANKS

NAYELI LÓPEZ IS TORN ABOUT WHETHER THE THIRD FLOOR OF NORTH HIGH SCHOOL WOULD BE THE SAFEST PLACE TO TAKE COVER DURING A MASS SHOOTING. ON THE ONE HAND, THE 16-YEAR-OLD STUDENT DOUBTS AN ACTIVE SHOOTER WOULD MAKE HIS WAY TO THE TOP FLOOR OF THE SCHOOL BEFORE THE RAMPAGE ENDED.

The stats in Denver are as alarming as they are manifold. More stolen, 3D-printed, and illegally purchased firearms are falling into the hands of the city’s young people, and record numbers of guns are being discovered and confiscated at Denver schools. Both juvenile (under 18) and youth (under 25) homicides around the metro area have reached crisis levels, and suicides by firearm have become a leading cause of death for young people. For Denver-based social worker and education consultant Darlene Sampson, it’s not just the numbers that are concerning. Sampson, who has been involved in education for more than 30 years, including five years as a DPS social worker, is worried about a confluence of toxic effects that are all contributing to gun violence: social media, the pandemic’s toll on young people’s mental health, and complex trauma affecting kids in neglected areas of Denver where systemic racism, a lack of neighborhood belonging, and intergenerational trauma collide.

How kids respond to complex trauma varies, Sampson says. Some fight, some flee, others freeze. But for the social worker, there’s one common denominator: “They’re afraid.” And

A NATIONAL PROBLEM WRIT LARGER

IN 2020, GUN DEATHS IN THE UNITED STATES— INCLUDING HOMICIDES, SUICIDES, AND ACCIDENTS— SURPASSED MOTOR VEHICLE CRASHES AS THE NUMBER ONE KILLER OF KIDS AGES ONE TO 18. BOTH DENVER AND AURORA OUTPACE NATIONWIDE NUMBERS. 53

Percentage increase, nationwide, in firearm suicides among youth ages 10 to 24 over the past decade

73

Percentage increase, nationwide, in homicides involving children from 2018 to 2021

for those who decide to carry guns? “They live on the edge of death,” she says.

None of this is lost on the students at North, who not only live with the baseline terror of school shootings ubiquitous since the Columbine massacre but also with a simmering frustration that no one is listening to them. “Everyone needs to understand that we have been trying to bring awareness to this issue for as long as we can remember,” Quezada-Montoya says of Denver’s communities of color. And since the shooting at East? “Now everyone is aware of the issue,” he says. He—and many others—are skeptical, however, that Denver’s citizens and leaders will do anything about it.

Percentage increase, in Denver, in juvenile homicides from 2018 to 2022, with four homicides in 2018 and 13 in 2022

800

Percentage increase, in Aurora, in juvenile homicides from 2018 to 2022, with one homicide tallied in 2018 and nine in 2022

People under the age of 25 who are directly affected by crimes involving guns every year in Denver

Percentage of youth gun crime victims in Denver who, between 2012 and 2017, were Black, despite Black youth only constituting 12 percent of the city’s youth population at the time

From left: Quezada-Montoya and López at North; Alaina Martinez’s sister at the state Capitol

BULLET POINTS

SHOOTINGS INVOLVING JUVENILE VICTIMS AND/OR PERPETRATORS HAVE BECOME REGULAR OCCURRENCES IN THE DENVER METRO AREA. HERE, A NONEXHAUSTIVE LIST OF INCIDENTS THAT HAVE HAPPENED WITHIN THE PAST 24 MONTHS.

NOVEMBER 15, 2021 During lunch at Aurora Central High, a drive-by shooting at adjacent Nome Park sends students scattering. Six high schoolers are wounded by bullets. Police eventually arrest four other teenagers in connection with the shooting.

NOVEMBER 19, 2021 A truck pulls onto Hinkley High School’s campus in Aurora, and its occupants begin arguing with students in the parking lot. Those in the truck open fire, and three students are taken to the hospital with bullet wounds. Four teenagers are later arrested.

APRIL 23, 2022 Officers respond to a shooting at the Denver Skatepark in LoDo and find 16-year-old Juan Herrera-Lozano lying dead in the street. DPD later arrests a 16-year-old suspect.

JULY 31, 2022 Bullets fired from a stolen pickup truck on I-70 near the Quebec Street exit strike and kill a 31-year-old driver who is commuting home from work at DIA. Police later arrest a 17-year-old suspect.

AUGUST 8, 2022 The body of 15-year-old Jozias Aragon is discovered with knife and bullet wounds near the baseball diamond at Denver’s Southwest Recreation Center. Police later apprehend a 17-year-old suspect whom, according to a search warrant, Aragon had been messaging about buying a gun.

SEPTEMBER 7, 2022 An argument between teens outside the Carla Madison Recreation Center near East High School erupts into a shooting, injuring a 19-year-old man as well as a bystander, a 14-year-old East student. A 16-year-old is later charged in the shooting.

OCTOBER 5, 2022 While walking his girlfriend and her sister home from a bus stop, 15-year-old Edward Armijo Preciado is struck and killed by eight bullets. His family believes he was targeted, but police have not named a suspect.

JANUARY 11, 2023 Aaliyah Cortez, 16, and her sister, 19, park their car to consult GPS directions in Montbello and an assailant approaches their vehicle and fatally shoots Cortez. Police later arrest a juvenile suspect.

FEBRUARY 13, 2023 Luis Garcia, a 16-year-old varsity soccer player at East High School, is shot while sitting in his car near campus at East 17th Avenue and City Park Esplanade. His family takes him off life support on March 1. The investigation is ongoing.

MARCH 22, 2023 A 17-year-old student with a history of gun violations shoots two deans at East High School as they pat him down before school, sending the administrators to the hospital and placing East on lockdown. Later that day, the alleged shooter’s body is located near his car in Bailey after an apparent suicide.

MARCH 25, 2023 Around 8 p.m., an altercation breaks out among a group of teenagers near the food court at the Town Center at Aurora, resulting in gunfire. First responders are not able to save 13-year-old Phoenix Day.

JULY 30, 2023 A 16-year-old boy with gunshot wounds is dropped off at an Aurora hospital in his own pickup truck. The unknown driver leaves while the boy undergoes life-saving surgery. The investigation is ongoing.

From top: Andy Cross/MediaNews Group/the Denver Post via Getty Images; Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images

From top: People gather outside Hinkley High after a shooting; protesters advocate for gun reform at the state Capitol in March.

CODE TRAUMA

STAUNCHING THE BLEEDING AND THEN PREVENTING THE BLOODSHED.

Denver Health and UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital are two of the main trauma centers to which gunshot victims are transported in the metro area, and both recognize that surgery is just one step caregivers can take to save patients. The two medical centers share a 13-year-old program called At-Risk Intervention and Mentoring (AIM) that works to ensure young people (as well as adults) don’t return through their doors with subsequent violence-related injuries. The process unfolds in three steps.

STEP 1: THE OR

Dr. Catherine Velopulos, a trauma surgeon at University of Colorado Hospital who manages its iteration of AIM, knows that treating bullet wounds isn’t like in the movies, where, as she puts it, “people just sort of sew up the hole and everything’s better.” In real life, bullets bounce around soft tissues in the body, often shredding organs along the way. Children generally don’t have as much tissue as adults do to slow bullets down, Velopulos adds, just one complication she runs into as a surgeon. Another? Young gunshot victims often arrive on her operating table late, because kids will delay calling 911 for fear of getting in trouble.

When patients do show up, “we follow a strict way of doing things that we call the ABCs. Airway first, then breathing, then circulation,” Velopulos says. The trauma team then searches body cavities for damage caused by bullets, which can be extensive because, Velopulos says, more young Denverites have been arriving with multiple entry and exit wounds. She knows she can’t save everyone—a reality she struggles with. But one thing that does help is knowing that, for those who do survive, their care doesn’t end in her operating room.

STEP 2: INTERVENTION

Lawrence Goshon, an outreach worker who’s contracted by UCHealth to work with AIM, receives the same text notifications Velopulos does about gunshot victims. The 44-year-old shows up post-surgery at patients’ bedsides to build relationships and provide assistance. “You have people who, because I’m in plain clothes [as opposed to a white coat] and relatable, will listen,” says Goshon, a former area gang member who spent 10 years in prison for crimes including robbery. The idea behind AIM is to establish trust between outreach workers and young people in a moment of vulnerability and to dissuade any acts of retaliation that might land them—or someone else—back in the hospital.

STEP 3: MENTORING

Goshon and other AIM workers provide free mentorship for at least 12 months. “We, first off, try to make sure that they make all their [medical] appointments,” Goshon says. “But we also follow them out to the community

to see what issues they struggle with, which can be anything from family to drug abuse to just needing someone to talk to.” By trying to connect young people with jobs or after-school programs, as well as providing families with rent and food assistance, AIM workers hope to disrupt cycles of violence affecting the people they serve. Goshon manages roughly 40 patients at any given time—a caseload he says can feel overwhelming. “There are times I’ll forget a person’s name, just because we may have six patients in a night,” he says. In an attempt to deal with the recent increases in gun violence as well as to stave off burnout, Velopulos says the AIM program at UCHealth just hired two additional outreach workers—raising the health system’s total to five. (Denver Health has four.) She’d hire more if the program could get additional private or public funding.

University of Colorado Hospital’s Dr. Catherine Velopulos

NOW & THEN

DOES THE SUMMER OF VIOLENCE OFFER LESSONS FOR TODAY’S SHOOTINGS?

Thirty years ago, hysteria swept Denver during what local media dubbed the Summer of Violence. Thirty-six teenagers died in 1993 from violent injuries, tragedies that live on in the collective psyche of our city. In June, Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas warned that summer 2023 could eclipse the infamous dog days of three decades ago. Fortunately, the rate of youth homicides is down 25 percent over 2022 as of press time in September, but two former gang members still share the chief’s worry that violence could soar anytime. Here’s why.

THE SOCIAL MEDIA EFFECT

TERRANCE ROBERTS

Anti-violence activist and 2022 candidate for Denver mayor on: today’s cultural glorification of gun violence

Music groups like N.W.A. may have popularized gang life beginning in the 1980s, but Roberts, who was shot during Denver’s 1993 Summer of Violence and was involved in a self-defense shooting in Park Hill in 2013, argues that Black pop culture has only moved more in that direction.

“I was just on VLAD TV—a hiphop platform on YouTube—and we joked in my interview that if I didn’t shoot someone, I wouldn’t be sitting there…. No one wants to know who the Black spelling bee [champion] is, but I bet, right now, you can name 10 gangsta rappers. So not only are we dealing with gun violence, but since we’ve made that a part of our own culture, it creates an issue with fighting violence. We almost don’t respect someone who doesn’t come from that struggle. But if you’re in that struggle, there’s gonna be killings. So right now, we’re really having a conversation: Do we really like the culture?”

Violence prevention specialist at Denver’s Struggle of Love Foundation on: the recent rise in 3D-printed guns, ghost guns, and the diffuse nature of today’s gangs

Every year, Denver police are recovering more so-called ghost guns, untraceable weapons that have no serial numbers. Last year, DPD found 89 ghost guns. By mid-2023, DPD was on track to confiscate more than 100 by the year’s end. McBride is not surprised. He also points to the changing structures of modern gangs—which are less hierarchical, less tied to geography, and more fluid than their traditional Bloods and Crips counterparts—as a reason for the bloodshed.

“When we talk about the Summer of Violence in 1993 that I lived through—I lost 22 friends to that and got shot in the eye—the kids that were gangbanging at that time were 19 and 20 [years old]. Now it’s 12- and 13-year-olds who are being killed on these streets…. And now kids are 3D-printing guns. I’ve seen it. If you get a cheap 3D printer for $200 or $300, that’s your hustle. You can make everybody in the neighborhood a gun and get paid.”

We all know screen time is a scourge, but until recently, it wasn’t the first place police officers looked when investigating a shooting. With youth gun violence on the rise, however, Snapchat and similar platforms can tell the story of how and why a crime occurred. “Conflicts often manifest and are exacerbated on social media,” says Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas. Law enforcement officers aren’t the only ones who’ve noticed that social media is often complicit in shootings. 5280 spoke with Dane Washington Sr., a former gang member who now heads the Park Hill Pirates youth football league and a youth mentorship nonprofit called Kids Above Everything, and Gene Fashaw, a seventh- and eighth-grade math teacher at High Point Academy in Aurora. Both men have tight, trusting relationships with their players, mentees, and students, who not only report frequently being around guns but have also been willing to tell their mentors what they’re seeing on social media. Washington and Fashaw want Denver parents to understand—and be on the lookout for— the following issues.

JASON MCBRIDE

Fights Fester Online

Fashaw doesn’t just hear about conflicts on social media from students; he sees the effects in his classroom. “They’ll come to school the next day, and it’s just utter chaos because there’s been hours and hours on social media talking about gangbanging or whatever else,” he says. “So by the time they see each other, there’s no respect, no love, no empathy.”

A Sense Of Detachment Reigns

The ability to hide behind phones means kids can too easily forget they’re dealing with a human being on the other side of a chat. “The drama that occurs is stemming from Snapchat and Instagram,” Fashaw says, “because people are more keen to say things from behind a screen than they are to say it in person.”

Mobile Gaming Plays A Part, Too

To further hide communications from prying eyes, some gun transactions occur in a nontraditional form of social media: chat rooms of online games including Fortnite and the mobile gaming platform Roblox.

“No one is paying attention to that,” Washington says.

Authorities Can’t Keep Up

Even if law enforcement seeks a search warrant to view private content on social media in an attempt to prevent violence, probable cause is needed to get a judge’s sign-off. Very frequently, Washington says, “that doesn’t happen until the crime is already committed with a gun.”

There’s An Unregulated Weapons Marketplace

For anyone too young to legally purchase a gun, social media is the Wild West for buying or selling firearms. Washington and Fashaw have learned it even comes with its own lingo: “Pole” is slang for a gun, and MOM stands for “Metal on the Market,” a search term young people use on Snapchat to find arms available for purchase.

Your Kids Have Burner Accounts

Kids may maintain one social media account that their parents know about, but, Fashaw says, many kids have multiple burner accounts and sometimes use those for their most extreme posts, which may include threats and insults. For example, Fashaw says, “making fun of somebody’s dead mom or uncle.”

There’s A Shoot-First Mentality

Washington has heard young people say they’d never engage in an actual fistfight: Losing and having that posted on social media would be too embarrassing. Instead, Washington says, one ethos is: “I’m not even gonna give you the chance to fight me; I’m gonna shoot your ass.”

A MOTHER’S LOSS

ANGEL SHABAZZ DID EVERYTHING POSSIBLE TO PROTECT HER SON FROM GUN VIOLENCE, BUT SHE STILL LOST 17-YEAR-OLD DAVARIE ARMSTRONG TO BULLETS IN JULY 2020, AN EXPERIENCE SHE RECOUNTED FOR 5280 .

When I picked up the phone, it was my son’s best friend screaming. He just kept saying Mom, mom, mom. Then he said, Davarie’s been shot. I had the phone on speaker, so when he said it, my daughter, who was standing behind me, screamed. That scared me. So I took the phone off speaker and asked where they were. He said they were at a party, and I was like, What party? He said they were going to take Davarie to the hospital because the ambulance was taking too long. The last thing I said was, Get him to University. I

don’t know how I made it from Park Hill to the hospital, but I pulled up right when Davarie’s friends were taking him out of their car. The hospital wouldn’t let us in to see him because of COVID-19. The doctors worked on him. Davarie was shot multiple times. They wouldn’t let me see him until he was pronounced gone. I just kept saying, No, not my son, not mine. I remember feeling like it was a dream.

Later, what I was told was that when he’d got to the party, the party was ending

because of these kids who showed up with guns. One of Davarie’s best girlfriends was having words with one of those boys, because she knew him from growing up. The boy was getting loud with her, and when Davarie went to ask if she was good, one of the other boys pulled out a gun. [Someone] started shooting.... Davarie was at the wrong place at the wrong time. Because he was an athlete, his goal was to go to an HBCU [historically Black college or university] for football. He had everything aligned for him to be that golden kid. He was a leader in the community. He wasn’t gang-related in any way. We talked about parties and who you hang with. He had a good circle of friends. And all in a matter of seconds it was taken away. And in my mind, I thought, I did everything I could. Now what am I supposed to do?

LOVE, CONTINUED

After her son’s death, Angel Shabazz found others who needed support—and gave it to them.

Davarie Armstrong had been a popular student at Denver’s South High School. He was charismatic, smart, and a star player on the school’s football team. In the wake of his death, hundreds attended a vigil held for him at South. “I thought when Davarie passed, and [seeing] how hurt all these kids were, that it was going to spark something in these kids, like, If that can happen to Davarie, it can happen to any of us,” Angel Shabazz says. “But it didn’t. It’s gotten worse.”

Shabazz felt like she had to do something, if only to help the growing number of those left behind. In 2021, Shabazz started a support group called A Mother’s Love to assist other local moms who’ve lost children for any reason. The group has since grown to roughly 30 members who process grief together and help each other with tasks—like cleaning out the bedrooms of deceased children—that no one should do alone. Out of 30 devastating stories, Shabazz says, “a majority of those are because of gun violence.”

There are days when running the group feels overwhelming. But other mothers keep calling her—and so Shabazz keeps at it. Shabazz says the best part is learning from others that, much like them, she did everything she could to protect her son and that his death wasn’t her fault. She’s also learned that she, too, can lean on her support group mothers. “Knowing that I’m not sitting in this by myself helps me cope,” she says. Visit davariejfoundation.com to learn more.

SCHOOL SECURITY

In October 2022, DPS Superintendent Alex Marrero attended a national gathering of large, urban school districts and found himself sitting through mundane briefings and wondering when someone was going to have the nerve to broach the topic of gun violence. When no one did, he spoke up. “After an awkward silence,” Marrero says, “people were like, Huh, he just went there.” Marrero thought he had to: DPS was finding far too many guns in its schools. (In the 2022-’23 school year, DPS found 16 real firearms—and 42 fake guns—on its campuses.) As other districts admitted that they, too, were struggling with guns, Marrero decided DPS would pioneer a new safety plan that could become a national model. 5280 spoke with Marrero about the plan and the problem of guns in local schools.

5280: Why do you think some students bring firearms on campus?

Alex Marrero: There are neighborhoods with gangs and rivalries in them. What we’ve learned from students is that they feel safe in school, but then there’s the nexus, meaning to and from schools, and they don’t want to be the one who doesn’t have something on them in case something goes down outside of school.

What’s leading to the discoveries of guns?

A lot of it is through Safe2Tell [an anonymous tip line created in response to the Columbine shooting] and comes from students themselves.

DPS’ new safety plan includes the return of school resource officers (SROs), who were removed in 2020 because they were disproportionately policing students of color. What do you say to criticism of the reversal?

I’m confident all constituent

groups—students, parents, staff, and leaders—are going to want SROs back in schools. I’ve engaged them deeply, and I know what I’ve heard. I also think students of color might be afraid to say, ‘I want SROs in my building,’ but I think if a [survey] ballot box is secretive, the students will come back in support.

The safety plan, which recently took effect, also includes mental health screenings for students. How will that work?

[With the new plan, there] is an expectation that all students will be screened three times a year by staff familiar with the strengths, behaviors, interests, and areas of need of the students. And all students who are at least eight years old will complete a selfreported screening two times a year. That’s five pieces of data moving forward that didn’t use to exist that we’ll have to support students.

That sounds like it will require a lot of resources. How will the district pay for it? We have allocated more than $82 million in this year’s budget for mental health, plus an additional $52.4 million in federal funds for student and staff well-being.

How will you track this plan’s success? Over time, the district will be looking at data correlated with prevention, early intervention and support, and long-term outcome statistics related to areas of youth violence prevention.

What are you optimistic as well as pessimistic about as you look forward?

I think this is an opportunity for me, DPD Chief Thomas, and Mayor [Michael] Johnston to work in a way that we can not only showcase this [plan] for cities across the nation, but I can also go back to [the annual school conference] and say, ‘Here’s how you do it.’ And I don’t know if I’m pessimistic, but I’m definitely not hopeful about stricter gun laws.

A TWO-SIDED CRISIS

Recognizing that gun deaths come in different forms, Colorado has an Office of Gun Violence Prevention (OGVP) and an Office of Suicide Prevention (OSP). Both state entities analyze public health data to identify trends and award grant money to initiatives working to reduce deaths. Despite that 30,000-foot approach, the offices are also headed by directors intimately familiar with their subjects: OSP director Lena Heilmann lost her sister to suicide in 2012, and OGVP director Jonathan McMillan is a former gang member. Each shared insights they’ve gained while trying to save lives.

PROTECTIVE MEASURES

WE CAN ALL PLAY IMPORTANT ROLES IN REDUCING FIREARM DEATHS. ACCORDING TO COLORADO CEASEFIRE, THE STATE’S OLDEST GRASSROOTS GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION ORGANIZATION, HERE ARE TWO EFFECTIVE WAYS TO DO SO.

SAFE GUN STORAGE

Suicide is not the result of one cause. Some of our highest contributing circumstances for young people include family, relationship stress, interpersonal stress, and school stress.

The greatest number of people who die by suicide [in Colorado] are in urban areas and along the Front Range—the higher populated areas—but the rates are higher in rural and frontier counties.

We see [elevated rates of] suicidal despair among LGBTQ+ youth and Black, Indigenous, and young people of color who experience discrimination.

Firearms are the most lethal method, and they play a predominant role in deaths by suicide, even if they’re not used in the majority of attempts.

It’s not uncommon for young people to feel suicidal. I would encourage parents and caregivers to hear about their [kids’] stressors, validate them, and offer help.

578

Coloradans under the age of 25 who died by suicide from 2020 through 2022; 302 of those deaths—or 52 percent— involved a firearm

One of the best ways to prevent young people from engaging in or being affected by violence is by having a caring, trusted adult consistently in their lives.

Helping young people figure out what they’re really interested in and encouraging them to learn more—it may be sports, it may be art—can lower the chance of them engaging in [harmful] behavior.

It was eye-opening for me to see this one graph that showed that, with white teenagers and adolescents, the majority of gun violence they experience is through suicide. And with African American and Black males, it’s almost a direct, mirror image, but with homicides. The message is still the same: There’s a lack of hope, and I believe hopelessness leads to recklessness.

I would challenge you to think about the violence we see in our communities that shows up as homicides as actually being suicidal behavior. It’s just externalized instead of internalized.

317

Coloradans under the age of 25 who died by homicide from 2020 through 2022; 247 of those deaths—or 78 percent— involved a firearm

Why It’s Important

1. It reduces gun thefts. Across the country fewer than half of gun owners secure their firearms. Meanwhile, Denver has seen a rise in the number of unsecured guns stolen from cars and homes since 2018. By mid-2023, DPD had already recovered 600 stolen and lost firearms—a nearly 100 percent increase from five years earlier.

2. Many teens have quick access to guns. According to the 2021 Healthy Kids Colorado Study, 19.2 percent of surveyed middle and high school students said they could get a loaded firearm without adult permission within one hour.

LENA HEILMANN

JONATHAN MCMILLAN

3. It’s the law. A 2021 Colorado law makes secure gun storage mandatory in households with juveniles or residents who are ineligible to possess firearms, such as convicted felons.

Three Ways To Safely Store Guns

1. Lockboxes. These hardened cases can be used to store one or two handguns, are often compact enough to be portable, and can incorporate various locking mechanisms, even fingerprint scanners. Best for: parents looking to keep handguns out of the sight and reach of children

2. Gun safes. Gun safes are large enough to accommodate weapons such as rifles and shotguns and can be heavily reinforced for greater protection. Best for: hunters or collectors who own multiple larger firearms

3. Trigger or cable locks. These are the simplest and least expensive locks—the Denver police and many gun stores give them out for free. A cable lock blocks the firing chamber from closing, and a trigger lock prevents access to the trigger. Best for: transporting guns; these locks are an easy way to keep firearms safe while driving to/from locations like a firing range

EXTREME RISK PROTECTION ORDERS (ERPO)

Why It’s Important

1. It’s a tool to stop shootings. ERPOs— or red flag laws—are court-approved orders that prohibit people who are deemed a danger to themselves or others from possessing or purchasing firearms. A temporary ERPO lasts for 14 days, and a full ERPO lasts for up to one year.

2. It’s good suicide prevention. Preliminary studies from early ERPO-adopting states suggest that for every 10 to 20 ERPOs filed, one suicide by firearm is prevented.

Steps For Obtaining An ERPO In Colorado

1. Determine if you are a qualified petitioner. Even after a 2023 expansion of the state’s ERPO law, only certain individuals can file a petition. Qualified petitioners include law enforcement officers, health care and mental health care professionals, educators, and household members (including roommates who’ve lived with the respondent for at least six months).

2. Fill out and submit the online petition. Download ERPO petitions online at courts.state.co.us, then return the petition to a county or district court in the county where the respondent lives. There is no filing fee to do so.

3. Attend required court hearings. If filing for a temporary ERPO, the court will hold a hearing on the petition the next day, and the petitioner must be present. If filing for a full ERPO, a hearing will be held in which both petitioner and respondent, who will be offered state-appointed legal representation, must be present.

4. Make sure respondent surrenders firearms. Law enforcement will handle this; if the court issues an ERPO, the respondent is required to give up their firearms to officers immediately. But if the petitioner learns the respondent still has firearms, the petitioner can file an affidavit to the court requesting an additional search.

GATHERING ’ROUND THE TABLE

COMMUNITY LEADERS AND CITY OFFICIALS ON VIABLE SOLUTIONS TO GUN VIOLENCE.

After the East High School shooting in March, John Bailey called in his connections. The Black community leader and political consultant understands Denverites’ uproar over students’ safety. But he also knows youth gun violence is not new. One problem, as Bailey sees it, is that prevention groups can be unaware of each other’s efforts. So, Bailey hosted three public forums through his Colorado Black Round Table organization. The talks—segments below are from the July 6 meeting—included calls to action for the politicians who attended, including Mayor Johnston. Since then, Johnston has met with various stakeholders, including DPS and DPD, to come up with a cross-departmental plan to address youth gun violence.

“Low neighborhood attachment is one of the [top] reasons for youth violence in our community. There’s nothing for kids to do inside of their own communities. You can drive up and down the I-70 corridor and you have the [Harkins] Northfield movie theater—and that’s it. We’re sitting here talking about all these different programs that we could provide for kids to keep them from being violent, but they’re tired of programs. What kind of commerce can we bring to our communities that would be for the kids, where they can let their hair down, so to speak? They need that.”

—BRANDON PRYOR, co-founder of Robert F. Smith STEAM Academy in Northeast Denver, a school modeled on HBCUs for ninth and 10th graders

“Unfortunately, we’re talking about a handful of guys that are involved in the violence. We’ve got more youth out here that are on the right pathway: going to college, going to school, listening to their parents. Yes, some of these guys that we’re losing in the streets are their friends. But for the most part, we also do a disservice to not acknowledge those young men that are on the straight and narrow path, because we always highlight the negative.”

—DANE WASHINGTON SR., executive director of youth

“The problem and the solution lie in the education of youth. It’s not [true] that [most] Black boys are involved in gun violence. But it [is true that gun culture is] more popular than having a GPA of 3.5. And what we need to understand as youth is that it’s more important to listen to your teachers than 21 Savage. It’s more important to listen to a brother telling you to get onto the football field than onto the streets. Until we do that, the problem will not fix itself.”

“Entrepreneurial programs are everything. We have 16 to 20 kids at Struggle of Love that we’ve been able to hire, and half of them are working for Kidz Kreation, which is a kid-run ice cream company. I gave the kids the freedom to do whatever they needed. If we offer kids things that they can understand, they’ll gravitate toward them. We need to get on their level.”

—JASON MCBRIDE, violence preventionist at the nonprofit Struggle of Love, which provides mentoring, food, and mental health resources to underserved kids

—ELIJAH

GOSS,

17-yearold

co-founder

of Young Educated Black Men at East High School, a student group that promotes academic achievement

“One of the things you don’t see a lot of is fathers walking into the school and being involved with their children’s academic success. I had the privilege of implementing my first fatherhood engagement program at my son’s elementary school. For young people who came from fatherless homes to see healthy males engaging in classrooms, supporting teachers, and reading stories—that really put a spin on them. And we said, You know what? We’ve got something here.”

—DWAYNE

MEEKS,

founder of the national fatherhood engagement nonprofit Urban Colors Arts and Mentoring

FACING FALL

COLORADO IS MAKING MOVES TO COMBAT GUN VIOLENCE, BUT STUDENTS AND TEACHERS REMAIN SKEPTICAL OF THEIR SAFETY AT SCHOOL.

After everything students experienced at North High School last school year—gun scares and a student killed off campus—Nayeli López marched to the state Capitol with hundreds of kids from the Denver metro area on March 24, two days after the East High shooting, to demand gun reform. When the legislative session ended six weeks later, López was disappointed. Despite all the We hear your voices and appreciate them responses she received from lawmakers, the results were underwhelming.

The high school junior believes the politicians’ actions (see “Numbered & Signed”) didn’t go nearly far enough to protect her or her classmates. As such, she plans to continue advocating to prohibit assault weapons, a measure that failed, and she also doesn’t mind being outspoken about the Denver Public Schools Board of Education’s midsummer decision to bring back SROs this fall. Neither López nor North High peer Veneno Quezada-Montoya trusts that security officers actually deter school shootings—Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, had an officer on campus in February 2018 when a gunman killed 17 people—and they fear that students of color, who make up 75 percent of DPS’ population, will be unfairly policed. “I will feel less safe with police in our school,” Quezada-Montoya says. Instead, he’ll turn to another source of strength. “What gives me hope is the people next to me who look like me,” he says.

Tim Hernández is one such familiar face for many students. As a 26-year-old Chicano teacher at Aurora West College Preparatory Academy, Hernández is, like his students, a Gen Zer. “We’re the generation of mass shootings,” says Hernández, who worked at North until 2022, when his contract wasn’t renewed. By straddling the worlds of adults and his fellow zoomers, Hernández has observed that when older generations talk about “youth,” they often forget that young people are reflections of greater society.“They’re impacted by gun violence because gun violence is a societal issue,” he says.

Hernández, who was recently appointed by Democrats to fill a seat in the Colorado state House on an education, community safety, and gun violence prevention platform (he will still teach in Aurora), has been inspired by student activism. He says those who lobbied in March seem to understand the root causes of gun violence

better than many adults, advocating not just to change gun laws but also to increase school funding to give students greater opportunities. But in a country where shootings regularly claim young victims—including during law enforcement encounters—the teacher says even older Gen Zers like him feel a certain inevitability about having to dodge bullets.

“My kids often ask me: What would [you] do?” Hernández says about a potential school shooting. “And I tell them, ‘I have a plan.’ ” And while the teacher always shrugs off the specifics if pressed by his pupils, privately he’s come to terms with what it’d actually mean to face down a shooter. “I would do everything I could to disrupt and intervene,” he says. “I would die for my students.”

NUMBERED & SIGNED

In 2023, the Colorado General Assembly passed the following gun reform measures.

Senate Bill 23-169 upped the legal age to purchase a gun from 18 to 21; however, a federal judge has blocked the law pending a lawsuit.

Senate Bill 23-1219 instituted a mandatory three-day waiting period when purchasing a gun.

Senate Bill 23-279 created a statewide ban on ghost guns.

Senate Bill 23-170 expanded the state’s red flag law by broadening the list of people who can file petitions, including adding teachers and mental health care providers.

Senate Bill 23-168 made it easier for gun violence victims in Colorado to bring suit against firearm and ammunition manufacturers. m

Hollis & Morris’ Horizontal Willow pendant floats over the Indigo dining table by Philipp Selva, which interior designer Beth Armijo paired with Julian Chichester’s Emma and London dining chairs. The rug is from Authentic Persian & Oriental Rugs.

story by CHRISTINE DEORIO

photography by KIMBERLY GAVIN styling by NATALIE WARADY

Fresh Take

Color and curves give a lively twist to a Hilltop home’s classic design details.

There’s a place for sweeping staircases with turned-wood balusters, red-oak-paneled libraries, and shimmering chandeliers—and according to the owners of this Hilltop property, it’s not in their home. But all of it was in the two-decade-old dwelling when the couple purchased it for themselves and their two young children—along with arched windows, ornately beaded and beveled cabinetry, and enough crown molding to give a place twice its size a prim and proper style.

The family had quickly fallen for the home’s spacious floor plan and proximity to Cranmer and Robinson

parks, but “they did not like all the cupcake-style detailing,” says Denver-based Factor Design Build’s lead designer, Robin Bryant, who was called in, along with interior designer Beth Armijo, to orchestrate an aesthetic overhaul. “They really wanted to streamline everything to a softer, calmer, more welcoming style.”

Although Bryant was careful to retain the structure’s architectural integrity—the arched picture windows stayed, as did the paneled walls and coffered ceilings—she didn’t hesitate to make modern interventions, from sleek new fireplaces to twin sets of steel-framed sliding glass doors

The Nicko coffee table from Moe’s Home Collection, Traverse side table by Global Views, and a custom chest by Ryan Schlaefer Fine Furniture provide clean-lined counterpoints to textural upholstery and a striated wool rug. The painterly composite photograph of flowers is by Isabelle Menin and was sourced by Kate Meyers of Kate Finds Art.

that connect two sides of the family room to the yard. In the powder room, she clad the floors and walls with hexagonal tiles, feathering the hard finish’s edges into a bold botanical-print wallcovering. On the main staircase, she replaced the traditional spindles and newel posts with metal balusters.

The interior’s early-aughts time stamp was most obvious in the kitchen, where Bryant jettisoned the stainless-steel appliances, glass mosaic backsplash, and unrelenting expanses of golden oak cabinetry and started fresh with whitewashed white-oak slab cabinet doors

STUDY Armijo updated the study’s elaborate millwork by painting the walls and ceiling in a moody green and the French doors in a vibrant chartreuse. Scout Design Studio’s Come Next Monday swivel chairs, upholstered in cozy chenille, are gathered around two mahogany Boomerang coffee tables by Denver Modern.

Custom white-oak and bronze-tinted-glass cabinets by Cabico, Caesarstone quartz countertops, and neutral tile from Sonoma Tilemakers create a quiet backdrop for the kitchen island’s waterfall top of Blue Marine quartzite, from the Stone Collection. Armijo carried its colors of robin’s egg blue, cream, and gold into nearly every room in the house, including the dining room (at right)

and a backsplash of taupe, ribbed glass tile. To one wall, she added a streamlined plaster hood and a modern, folding-panel window that opens to the outdoor dining area. An adjacent wall of floor-to-ceiling cabinetry is inset with bronze-tinted glass cupboards in aluminum frames, “which lend a bit of industrial edginess without feeling hard,” she explains.

These finishes, along with matte-white quartz perimeter countertops, provide a quiet backdrop for the island’s massive slab of Blue Marine quartzite, which introduced a palette of robin’s egg blue and gold not just to the kitchen, but also to every room in the house. For example, after Bryant’s team carved an intimate sitting room out of the expansive main bedroom suite, Armijo covered the

new space’s walls with a botanical-print wallcovering in hues of pale blue and green, then carried those soothing colors into the adjacent bedroom’s textiles and art. In the dining room, chairs upholstered in smoky blue and vibrant chartreuse pop against walls and trim painted a warm shade of white. Armijo brought similar bold colors into the study, updating the paneled walls and

FAMILY ROOM The jute basket weave doors on a pair of Vanguard Furniture’s Navone chests complement the warm hues in a rug from Authentic Persian & Oriental Rugs, the natural wood base of Thayer Coggin’s LA sectional, and the rich upholstery on Lexington Home Brands’ mid-mod-style Warren leather chair. The Baylor ottoman, topped with gray leather, is by Wesley Hall.

coffered ceiling with a coat of blackened-teal paint and the French doors with a fresh citron color. “I didn’t want to strip the house of the old,” she explains, “but I did want to create more of a European aesthetic in which the bones are traditional and the finishes and furniture introduce a timeless modern style.”

From sculptural side tables to playful chandeliers that riff on everything from birds on a wire to a string of pearls, the new

furnishings selected for these rooms reveal the homeowners’ sense of adventure. “The homeowner

SITTING ROOM Kelly Ventura’s Meadow wallpaper transforms a sitting room adjacent to the main bedroom into a peaceful retreat. Lawson-Fenning’s Niguel desk and Woodbridge Furniture’s Collette dining chair create an elegant windowside workspace, while Kravet’s Grace loveseat offers a cozy spot to curl up with a book. The Gerika ottoman is from Arteriors.

Custom white-oak cabinetry from Cabico frames an elegant Marquis free-standing bathtub by Hydro Systems. A rug from Authentic Persian & Oriental Rugs warms the floor clad with Marazzi’s Basalto tile.

has such a whimsical style, so she was like, ‘A curved living room sofa? Yeah!’ ” notes Armijo, who paired that piece with rounded chairs that can swivel toward the fireplace or the piano. “I love that modern play of curves in a very structured house.”

To further soften the rigid formality, Armijo piled on texture: hearty wool rugs streaked with saturated hues, soft sheer and linen draperies, chunky chenilles and wool bouclés on chairs and beds, and plush velvets “that carry gorgeous color but are also

super durable,” she says. “Here, it’s more about texture and color than pattern. The pattern play comes from the geometries of the architecture and the curves of the furniture.”

“Play” being the operative word. “We needed to bring the house up to speed for the time and for the people who bought it,” Armijo says. “This couple is young and very willing to go outside the box, so we knew this was a place where we could have a lot of fun.” m

Highlands Design Resource built the custom bed and wall panels, all upholstered in a Pollack wool bouclé, to fit the main bedroom’s wall; on either side are doors that lead to a private sitting room.

Industry insiders say Comedy Works is one of the best clubs in the country. That’s because longtime owner Wende Curtis has made a career out of taking a laughing matter very seriously.

BY L. WAYNE HICKS PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID WILLIAMS

Given just four minutes to win over the audience

packed into Comedy Works in downtown Denver, Jeremy Cash unleashes a string of one-liners. “I went to a climate change protest over the weekend, but I couldn’t find any parking,” he says, “so I just drove around for 14 hours.” It’s a Tuesday evening in July, and Comedy Works is hosting New Talent Night, which, over the years, has become a weekly tradition. “I don’t have kids,” Cash continues, “but if I ever do, I’m going to home-school them because if they’re going to get bullied, I want to do it.” His allotted time expended, Cash walks offstage to the sound of laughter and deserved applause. More than 200 comedians signed up for the 15 spots available tonight, most, if not all, with the goal of polishing their performances and attracting the attention of someone who’s not even in attendance: Wende Curtis.

Curtis has owned Comedy Works for 22 years and is such a legend in the business that the 60-year-old doesn’t need to be present to make her influence felt. Despite the fact that New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles all have comedy scenes that are better-known than Denver’s, Comedy Works has an outsize reputation in the business. “When people ask me what the best comedy club in the country is, I always

say Comedy Works Denver,” says Las Vegas–based comedian Brian Regan, who has performed at the Kennedy Center and Radio City Music Hall. “I’ve always felt that way. There are a lot of great clubs out there, but the planets just line up when it comes to Comedy Works.”

Curtis started working at the nowdefunct Comedy Works in Fort Collins in late 1986, during her senior year at Colorado State University (CSU). Initially hired as a waitress, Curtis eventually took on more responsibilities, working in the office and trying to grow the club’s audience. Within two years, she was booking comedians at both the Denver and Fort Collins clubs. When the owners opened a Comedy Works in Tampa in the fall of 1991, Curtis made regular visits to Florida the following year to try to build a consistent crowd. After 10 months of struggling to attract one, the club was shuttered and Curtis renewed her focus on managing the downtown Denver Comedy Works. She was 29.

Over the past 30 years, Comedy Works has faced its share of challenges, and the laughter that reverberates inside its walls has been occasionally punctuated by tears—and, worse, silence, when COVID-19 closed the club’s doors for a year and a half. Fortunately, Curtis says, after a global pandemic, people have desperately needed to laugh, which means seats are full once again, and the waitresscum-owner doesn’t have to imagine life without Comedy Works.

“This is all I’ve ever done,” Curtis says, sitting in her office a few blocks north of the Overland Golf Course one day this past summer. The dichotomy of her professional life is evident: A framed whoopee cushion that served as an invitation to the opening of the Greenwood Village club hangs a few feet away from file folders labeled Estate Planning and Property Taxes. “I’ve never been married,” she says. “I don’t have kids. I don’t have that legacy. This is it.”

Curtis in the Denver condo where performers at Comedy Works can crash when they're in town

“wende knows what

IN 1974, CURTIS’ family moved from Garden City, Kansas, to Aurora, where her father opened an auto parts store on Brighton Boulevard. Curtis was only 11, but she found herself helping out with the family business: She washed windows, counted nuts and bolts, and swept the parking lot. At Hinkley High School in Aurora, Curtis appeared in school musicals and performed in a madrigal group, and after graduating enrolled at CSU with the idea of going on to acting school.

When Comedy Works opened in Fort Collins during her senior year at CSU, Curtis found her creative outlet. She was a waitress, with no desire to try stand-up comedy, but she liked the idea of being close to what she calls “the business of show business.” “It was so much fun,” she says. “At the end of the night, the staff would vacuum and wash ashtrays in the back. Well, I wanted to vacuum and wash ashtrays because I could sing. I could sing with the vacuum going and with the water going, washing ashtrays.”

But her joy at Comedy Works was beset by her ongoing struggle with eating disorders; Curtis says today she was both anorexic and bulimic. Instead of going to acting school after graduating, she focused on overcoming her battle with her disordered eating and body image. She began therapy at 26, but it took a few years until she found a therapist with whom she really connected. Curtis credits that with saving her life. “I remember thinking, If I can ever do this, if I can ever conquer this, it will be the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life,” she says. “And to this day, I still believe that to be the case.”

Meanwhile, she found solace at Comedy Works, which had been founded in 1981 by Edd Nichols, a jazz trumpeter who dabbled in stand-up, Doug Olson, and comedian George McKelvey. (McKelvey wound up going out on his own and opened George McKelvey’s Comedy Club in Aurora.) Nichols and Olson moved Comedy Works to its current location and reached beyond Denver to open outposts in Fort Collins and Boise, Idaho, in 1986 (it closed later that decade) and Tampa five years later.

Curtis found herself taking on increasing responsibilities over the years. She managed the two clubs in Colorado and oversaw Jazz Works, the nightclub Nichols had opened in the basement of Wynkoop Brewing Company in 1990. “I just did what nobody else would do,” she says. “I never had a problem with working. I never had a problem with working harder. I never had a problem with working longer. I just did it my way. And I just did it, honestly, better than anybody was doing it or had done it before.”

Nichols says he was initially skeptical of Curtis becoming a manager; people in various organizations get promoted because they are good at their jobs, he says, and eventually reach positions they don’t have the skills for. “That was not the case with Wende,” Nichols says. “She was one of those people who made the transition from just being a good, hard-working waitperson to a manager. Then there’s the next step, going from manager to being able to own and run the business.”

In 1990, Nichols and Olson sold the clubs to First Entertainment Inc.; Curtis, Olson, and another partner purchased Comedy Works 11 years later from the group. Curtis bought out one partner within a couple of months and the other after a year. By 2002, Curtis, the former waitress, was the sole owner of Comedy Works.

ASK A COMEDIAN about Wende Curtis, and you’ll often get a version of the same response. “The thing about Wende that really makes a difference is that she’s a club owner and manager, and while she obviously wants to make money, money doesn’t seem like the main concern with her,” says Brad Williams, an LA-based comic who headlines Comedy Works a couple of times a year. “She actually cares about the comedy.”

“Wende knows comedy,” says Dana Gould, the LA-based comedian and actor who previously wrote for The Simpsons. “Unfortunately, knowing comedy isn’t a prerequisite for booking a comedy club. It should be, but it isn’t. Wende knows what she’s doing, and it shows in the fact that the club is still going really strongly out there.”

That Curtis knows comedy, however, isn’t the only reason for Comedy Works’ success. Over the years, she’s made savvy business decisions about the direction of the clubs, many of which overlap with her love of

she’s doing, and it shows in the fact that the club is still going really strongly out there.”

—DANA GOULD

Hair, makeup and wardrobe styling by Tiaja Pierre

the art and craft of comedy. As Curtis considered expanding Comedy Works after she’d become the sole owner, she looked to Chicago, partly because she had become familiar with the city through a boyfriend, whom she’d met at Jazz Works. But after two deals to buy buildings in the Windy City fell through, she started looking closer to home. The Improv, a comedy club franchise, had announced plans to open a club in Denver. “I knew I needed to shore up my own backyard,” she says, “and I always knew that was going to go south.”

She means that literally, not figuratively. Demographic data Curtis had collected from ID checks at the downtown Denver club showed that many people making up the weekend audiences were coming from south of Denver. If she could open a bigger club in the southern suburbs, she thought, the audience would already be there.

Curtis’ dream, though, was slow to become reality. Having borrowed money to finance her new club, Curtis saw the project—and the surrounding Landmark development in Greenwood Village—run into repeated construction delays. (The developer, Zachary Davidson, wound up under criminal indictment on embezzlement charges and died by suicide in January 2013.) In need of additional capital, Curtis borrowed from her parents and her then boyfriend and sank her own savings into the new Comedy Works. “What you don’t want to do to a new business is front-end load it with debt,” Curtis says, “and it was pretty front-end loaded.” Curtis opened the new club, located just south of Belleview Avenue along I-25, in October 2008, with Josh Blue, Kathleen Madigan, and George Lopez all taking turns at the mic for an opening-night celebration.

Curtis, who leases the 8,000 square feet of space at the corner of 15th and Larimer streets, now had 21,000 square feet in Greenwood Village to fill. In addition to Comedy Works, she opened a thirdfloor ballroom suitable for weddings, a second-floor restaurant named Lucy in honor of her beloved French bulldog, and a first-floor lounge

named for her paternal grandmother, Lila B. The club itself sits on the ground floor, with a mezzanine. The ceiling is higher than at the downtown club, and the seating is not as tight as it is in the Larimer location.

Christopher Titus, who has recorded nine specials so far, regularly performs at Comedy Works and remembers thinking the new club might be too big—until he performed there. “The laughter funnels to the stage and gets louder as it gets closer to you, so you’re a better comic because you’re hearing the response,” he says. “Some of these guys will set up a club, and they’ll put 30-foot ceilings in thinking it’s grand, and all that does is the laughter from the audience goes to the ceiling. On stage, you’re not hearing it, so it messes you up.”

As it turned out, laughs weren’t in short supply, but money was. Two years after opening, the Greenwood Village club had still not overcome its debt burden, and Curtis realized she needed an infusion of cash. She got word to Lopez, whom she had been booking since the early 1990s. “I think she might have been taking a loss in the weeks that I was there [back then],” he says, “but I

Clockwise, from left: Artwork made by guests of Comedy Works’ Denver condo; the bathroom shower curtain; Curtis playing Comedy Works Invaders; a Rodney Dangerfield doll

Hire a DESIGN PRO

Do you wish you knew the right questions to ask about the design process before hiring a design professional? Read on to discover tips to get your design process launched in style.

What to know when

REDECORATING

With the advent of short-term rental companies like VRBO and Air BNB, many homeowners are discovering new financial opportunities. The designers at HW Home are keenly familiar with how to prepare a home for guests who will occupy their space as a “residence Hotel”. Our team has been designing properties throughout the world for just this purpose.

If you have a home you are preparing for multi-tenant use, it is important to keep the following in mind.

• Always use contract quality fabrics. Fabrics like Crypton and Sunbrella indoor are perfect for enduring performance.

• When selecting paint colors, use a flat finish on your walls. Flat finished paints are the easiest to touch up without revealing that you have.

• Accessories are always an important step in a successfully decorated home. Selecting quality pieces which work with your design is important but easily breakable items should be avoided. Keep your family heirlooms in your primary residence.

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What to know when remodeling your KITCHEN & BATH

TIP NO. 1: Buy it once. There’s lots of ways to “save” on a remodel, whether with the scope or products themselves, but understanding what’s an actual savings versus a compromise in quality that you’ll pay for later is important.

TIP NO. 2: Do what you want. No one has to live in your house except you, so design it that way, not to appease a hypothetical future buyer.

TIP NO. 3: Require a track record. Whether you’re hiring a designer, contractor or a design/build firm like us, make sure you like the way they work and that it’s not their first rodeo.

TIP NO. 4: Every challenge is an opportunity to do something great. Whether you’re dealing with a difficult design parameter or a surprise in construction, every “problem” has a solution, and sometimes it becomes what makes the project truly special.

TIP NO. 5: Have fun. There’s no denying that projects can be stressful at times, but don’t forget to enjoy the process, it makes the end result that much sweeter.

What to know when you

TIP NO. 1: Hire a partner with depth instead of hiring a company where one person is responsible for too many things.

TIP NO. 2: You can never over-plan or over-document before starting construction on a remodel.

TIP NO. 3: Don’t worry about designing for resale. Design for yourself so you can enjoy it.

TIP NO. 4: Budget and creativity both need to be respected and understood during the design process.

TIP NO. 5: Both design and construction should be done to a realistic schedule. Then that schedule should be shared and followed by all.

We create spaces that improve people’s lives.

Dining Gu ide

Indicates a restaurant featured in 5280 for the first time (though not necessarily a restaurant that has just opened).

Indicates inclusion in 5280’s 2023 list of Denver’s best restaurants. These selections are at the discretion of 5280 editors and are subject to change

A5 STEAKHOUSE $$$$

LoDo / Steak House This unfussy chophouse by the team behind Forget Me Not and Tap and Burger features perfectly seared steaks, hearty sides, and draft cocktails. Never pass up the beef tartare katsu sando and the chickpea fries to start your meal. Reservations accepted. 1600 15th St., 303-623-0534. Dinner

ABEJAS $$$$

Golden / Seasonal Enjoy seasonal new American plates at this community restaurant. The everchanging menu features farm-fresh produce, sustainable fish, and organic meats, and the bar highlights small wineries and local brewers. Reservations accepted. 807 13th St., Golden, 303-952-9745. Dinner, Brunch

ACE EAT SERVE $$$

Uptown / Asian This Uptown restaurant and ping-pong hall features Asian-inspired cuisine and 10 ping-pong tables. Try the Sichuan shrimp wontons. Reservations accepted. 501 E. 17th Ave., 303-800-7705. Dinner, Brunch

ACOVA $$$

LoHi / American A diverse menu of American classics and dishes spotlighting international flavors are the draws here. Try the honey-drizzled fried chicken. Reservations accepted. 3651 Navajo St., 303-736-2718. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

ACREAGE BY STEM CIDERS $$

Lafayette / Seasonal Stem Ciders’ ciderhouse and eatery pairs its drinks with house-grown produce and sustainable sourcing. Save room for the cider doughnuts. Reservations accepted. 1380 Horizon Ave., Lafayette, 720-443-3007. Lunch, Dinner

AFRICAN GRILL & BAR $$

Lakewood / African Explore a bevy of dishes from across Africa at this warm and inviting restaurant run by the Osei-Fordwuo family. Peanut soups, fried fish, samosas, and jollof rice are just some of the crave-worthy options you’ll order again and again. Reservations accepted. 955 S. Kipling Parkway, Lakewood, 303-985-4497. Lunch, Dinner

AJ’S PIT BAR-B-Q $$

Overland / Barbecue This wood-fired, Texas-style barbecue joint welcomes the public to savor lipsmacking dishes, such as tender beef brisket,

Taco The Town

Fans of Kiké’s Red Tacos no longer need to devour their orders while perched on the hoods of their cars. This past May, the three-year-old food truck, which previously parked at locations in north Denver, debuted a brick-and-mortar with plenty of seating in West Highland. There, you can upgrade the brand’s signature quesabirria tacos, stuffed with cheese and your choice of meat and fried to a crisp on the flat top, with a rainbow of sauces from the salsa bar and a flight of cucumber, spicy, and strawberry margaritas.

house-cured and smoked pastrami, pit beans, and farm slaw. Reservations not accepted. 2180 S. Delaware St., 720-815-5571. Lunch, Dinner

AMERICAN ELM $$$

Berkeley / American Elevated American fare and classic cocktails anchor the menu at this neighborhood spot. Order the rib-eye French dip or the roasted half chicken. Reservations accepted. 4132 W. 38th Ave., 720-749-3186. Dinner, Brunch

ANGELO’S TAVERNA $$

Speer / Italian This neighborhood nook dishes up tasty grilled oysters as well as pastas and pizzas. Try the lobster gnocchi. Also try the Littleton location. Reservations not accepted. 620 E. Sixth Ave., 303-744-3366. Lunch, Dinner

ANNETTE $$$

Aurora / American James Beard Award–winning chef Caroline Glover’s Annette delivers a lineup of seasonal salads, pastas, wood-fired proteins, and other comforting bites in a modern, inviting space. Don’t skip dessert, particularly if pecan pie is on the menu. Reservations accepted. 2501 Dallas St., Suite 108, Aurora, 720-710-9975. Dinner

AOI SUSHI AND IZAKAYA $$

Boulder / Japanese This neighborhood spot from Sushi Zanmai veterans Keiko and Yuki Aoi serves expertly crafted sushi and comforting Japanese pub fare. Reservations accepted. 3303 30th St., Boulder, 303-449-5394. Lunch, Dinner

ARABESQUE $$

Boulder / Mediterranean Sip house-made chai and sample Middle Eastern delights in this charming spot. Reservations not accepted. 1634 Walnut St., Boulder, 720-242-8623. Breakfast, Lunch

ASH’KARA $$$

LoHi / Middle Eastern Chef Daniel Asher offers a playful take on Middle Eastern cuisine at this plant-bedecked eatery. Order the falafel and a shareable tagine. Reservations accepted. 2005 W. 33rd Ave., 303-537-4407. Dinner, Brunch

ATTIMO $$

Ballpark / Italian At this urban winery, Snooze co-founder Jon Schlegel serves vino from artisans in Northern Italy with light, thoughtful fare. Reservations accepted. 2246 Larimer St., 720-287-4988. Dinner

Courtesy of Javier Godinez

AUDREY JANE’S PIZZA GARAGE $$

Boulder / Pizza Expect perfect New York–style sourdough pies featuring inventive toppings at this joint. Try the Hot Honey Disco Pie with salami picante, mushrooms, and Calabrese honey. Reservations not accepted. 2675 13th St., Boulder, 303-442-2032. Lunch, Dinner

AVANTI FOOD & BEVERAGE $$

LoHi / International Current tenants of this food collective include Gorlami Pizza, Bowls by Ko, Quiero Arepas, Knockabout Burgers, and Pho King Rapidos. 3200 Pecos St., 720-2694778. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

AVELINA $$$

LoDo / American This upscale restaurant offers a sleek atmosphere and beautifully composed plates with worldly flavors. Try the Colorado bison ribs. Reservations accepted. 1550 17th St., 720-904-6711. Dinner

BACON SOCIAL HOUSE $$

Littleton / Contemporary This fun, casual restaurant’s beloved namesake ingredient is at the forefront of many of its dishes. Also try the Sunnyside location. Reservations accepted. 2100 W. Littleton Blvd., Littleton, 720-750-7107. Breakfast, Lunch

MYSTERIES OF THE

BAMBOO SUSHI $$$

LoHi / Sushi This Portland-born sustainable sushi spot will make you feel good about each bite of sashimi you take. Try the dashi scallop with chive oil. Reservations accepted. 2715 17th St., 303-2846600. Lunch, Dinner

BANH & BUTTER BAKERY CAFE $

Aurora / French Thoa Nguyen crafts French pastries inspired by her Vietnamese heritage at this East Colfax cafe. Go for the dazzling crêpe cakes, each made with 25 to 30 layers. Reservations not accepted. 9935 E. Colfax Ave., Aurora, 720-513-9313. Breakfast, Lunch

BAR DOUGH $$$

LoHi / Italian Tuck into wood-fired pizzas, comforting pastas, and Italian-style cocktails from chef Russell Stippich at this casual gathering spot. Reservations accepted. 2227 W. 32nd Ave., 720-668-8506. Dinner, Brunch

BASTA $$$

Boulder / Italian This wood-fired eatery offers bold flavors and interesting wines. Try the clam pizza. Reservations accepted. 3601 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303-997-8775. Dinner

BB.Q CHICKEN $$

Aurora / Korean Discover finger-licking goodness at BB.Q Chicken, a fast-casual, Korea-born chain serving crunchy-juicy wings tossed in your choice of more than 12 sauces. Multiple locations. Reservations not accepted. 2495 S. Havana St., Suite H, Aurora, 720-882-6736. Lunch, Dinner

BECKON $$$$

RiNo / Contemporary Chef Duncan Holmes brings an elevated, intimate dining experience to Larimer Street. The seasonal menu changes frequently, and excellent, thoughtful wine pairings are available. Reservations accepted. 2843 Larimer St., 303-749-0020. Dinner

BEST PHILLY STEAK $$

Arvada / American A fusion joint specializing in Korean-influenced Philly cheese steak sandwiches. Try the Steak N’ Bacon with deep-fried bacon, onions, and cheese. Reservations not accepted. 6350 Sheridan Blvd., Arvada, 720-6674702. Lunch, Dinner

BIG MAC & LITTLE LU’S $$$

Westminster / Seafood Big Mac & Little Lu’s brings Florida beaches to the Centennial State with carefully sourced seafood and thoughtfully paired beverages. Go for one of four po’ boy sandwiches. Reservations accepted. 2851 E. 120th Ave., Westminster, 303-404-2722. Lunch, Dinner

BIKER JIM’S GOURMET DOGS $

Free with Museum admission Gratis con la entrada al museo

EXHIBITION OPENS OCT. 20

Inauguración de exhibición 20 de octubre WWW.DMNS.ORG

Ballpark / American This spot’s unusual menu includes rave-worthy dogs in adventurous varieties (think: ostrich sausage and elk jalapeño). Reservations not accepted. 2148 Larimer St., 720-746-9355. Lunch, Dinner

BISTRO LEROUX $$$$

LoDo / French Lon Symensma’s upscale, European-inspired eatery features tableside preparations. Don’t miss the desserts. Reservations accepted. 1510 16th St., 720-845-1673. Dinner, Brunch

With more than 30 crave-worthy toppings to mix and match, we've loved helping you make burger magic since 1945.

BLACKBELLY $$$

Boulder / American Chef Hosea Rosenberg’s carnivore-friendly menu focuses on charcuterie, small plates, and daily butcher specials. Try the koji-cured heritage pork chop. Also check out the adjacent butcher shop and market, which serves breakfast and lunch and is stocked with locally made retail goods. Reservations accepted. 1606 Conestoga St., Boulder, 303-247-1000. Dinner

BLUE PAN PIZZA $$

West Highland / Pizza Masterfully crafted Detroit-style pizza is the draw at this tiny spot. Try the Brooklyn Bridge, topped with pepperoni, Italian sausage, and ricotta and Romano cheeses. Also try the Congress Park location. Reservations not accepted. 3930 W. 32nd Ave., 720-456-7666. Lunch, Dinner

BRASSERIE BRIXTON $$

Cole / French Pair the likes of steak frites, pâté with house-baked sourdough, and other comforting French specialties with a glass of wine at this neighborhood bistro. Reservations accepted. 3701 N. Williams St., 720-617-7911. Dinner

THE BRONZE EMPIRE $$$

Cory-Merrill / Chinese This comfortable restaurant specializes in Chinese hot pot, which features an aromatic, bubbling broth for cooking fresh ingredients right at your table. Dip everything from noodles to steak into the savory cooking liquid. Reservations accepted. 1591 S. Colorado Blvd., 720-599-8888. Lunch, Dinner

BRUTØ

$$$$

LoDo / International Executive chef Michael Diaz de Leon highlights heritage grains and house ferments created by Mara King in a Latin-influenced, omakase-style tasting menu. Tack on the cocktail pairing to make the experience even more special. Reservations accepted. 1801 Blake St., 720-325-2195. Dinner

BUCKHORN EXCHANGE

$$$

Lincoln Park / Steak House This Denver classic exudes a Wild West feel with taxidermied animals on the walls and a menu that includes Rocky Mountain oysters and wild game. Reservations accepted. 1000 Osage St., 303-534-9505. Dinner

CABRÓN CARBÓN TAQUERIA & GALERÍA $ Golden Triangle / Mexican Try quesabirria, aguas frescas, and papa asadas (loaded baked potatoes) in this neon-laced taqueria and art gallery. Reservations not accepted. 1043 N. Broadway, 720-598-6934. Lunch, Dinner

CAFE 180 $

Englewood / American “Eat what you want and pay what you can” is the motto at this nonprofit restaurant. Reservations not accepted. 3315 S. Broadway, Englewood, 720-289-0799. Lunch

CAKE CRUMBS BAKERY & CAFE $

South Park Hill / American Pick up made-fromscratch baked treats at this charming bakery. Reservations not accepted. 2216 Kearney St., 303-861-4912. Breakfast, Lunch

CANTINA LOCA $$

LoHi / Mexican Chef Dana Rodriguez’s welcoming LoHi taqueria invites diners to connect over plates of tacos, shareable entrées, and drinks infused with the Chihuahua, Mexico–born matriarch’s own line of agave spirits, Doña Loca. Order the molcajete. Reservations accepted. 2890 Zuni St., 303-284-6738. Dinner

CATTIVELLA $$$

Central Park / Italian Chef Elise Wiggins offers rustic, wood-fired Italian fare from a sprawling chef’s counter. Reservations accepted. 10195 E. 29th Drive, Suite 110, 303-645-3779. Dinner

CHICKEN REBEL $ Westminster / American The brick-and-mortar of the popular food truck serves up sandwiches, salads, and more with fried chicken. Reservations not accepted. 10448 Town Center Drive, Westminster, 720-534-5593. Lunch, Dinner

CITY, O’ CITY $$

Capitol Hill / American This meat-free zone features pizza, vegan pastries, and a full bar. Reservations not accepted. 206 E. 13th Ave., 303-831-6443. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

COCHINO TACO $$

Englewood / Mexican The menu at this quirky taqueria features 18 different tacos and a poblano-chile-topped burger. Multiple locations. Reservations not accepted. 3495 S. Downing St., Englewood, 720-573-6174. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

COMAL HERITAGE FOOD INCUBATOR $

RiNo / International Immigrant and refugee women develop the skills to operate their own food businesses by serving up renditions of their family recipes at this indoor-outdoor restaurant. Try the pupusas or the plato caribe, fried fish with tostones and coleslaw. Reservations not accepted. 1950 35th St., 303-292-0770. Breakfast, Lunch

COOHILLS $$$$

LoDo / French Enjoy the French-inspired cuisine made with local, sustainable products at this restaurant that is only a one-minute walk from Ball Arena. Reservations accepted. 1400 Wewatta St., 303-623-5700. Dinner

CORNER OFFICE $$$

Downtown / International Find global comfort food from Jamaican jerk chicken to tuna poke at this trendy spot. Reservations accepted. 1401 Curtis St., 303-825-6500. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

COZY COTTAGE BREAKFAST & LUNCH $$

Berkeley / Breakfast The homey feel of this eatery is perfectly aligned with the menu of signature pancakes, eggs Benedict, and French toast. Reservations accepted. 4363 Tennyson St., 720-855-9800. Breakfast, Lunch

CRACOVIA $$$

Westminster / Polish Traditional dishes are on the menu at this family-owned spot. Try the zupa ogórkowa (pickle soup) or the placki (fried potato and onion pancakes). Reservations accepted. 8121 W. 94th Ave., Westminster, 303-484-9388. Lunch, Dinner

CREMA COFFEE HOUSE $

RiNo / Contemporary At this hip cafe, you’ll find beans from the country’s top roasters and an all-day menu that offers flavorful picks, like beet salad and pork belly banh mi. Reservations not accepted. 2862 Larimer St. Breakfast, Lunch

CUCINA COLORE $$$

Cherry Creek / Italian An upbeat dining room, bar, and patio are a great backdrop for this menu of contemporary Italian food. Reservations accepted. 3041 E. Third Ave., 303-393-6917. Lunch, Dinner

CURTIS PARK DELICATESSEN $

Curtis Park / Deli This neighborhood deli serves a menu of fine classic sandwiches (like the Curtis, made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and house-made Thousand Island). Also try the Cherry Creek location. Reservations not accepted. 2532 Champa St., 303-308-5973. Lunch

D BAR $$$

Uptown / Contemporary Owners and chefs

Keegan Gerhard and Lisa Bailey produce exquisite desserts and modern comfort food. Bonus: Check out the grab-and-go coffee and pastries. Reservations accepted. 494 E. 19th Ave., 303-861-4710. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

D’CORAZON $

LoDo / Mexican Known for its authentic, slowsimmered carnitas, this spot offers Mexican at its best. Reservations not accepted. 1530 Blake St., 720-904-8226. Lunch, Dinner

DAE GEE $$

Congress Park / Korean Enjoy bold Korean flavors at this Congress Park eatery. Order the pork bulgogi or try the bibimbap. Multiple locations. Reservations accepted. 827 Colorado Blvd., 720-639-9986. Lunch, Dinner

DAUGHTER THAI KITCHEN & BAR $$$

LoHi / Thai This date-night-ready Thai restaurant from Ounjit Hardacre serves beautifully plated dishes and inventive cocktails with an elegant ambience to match. The menu features tried-andtrue favorites such as pad thai and massaman curry alongside a rotating lineup of rare-inDenver specialties. Reservations accepted. 1700 Platte St., Suite 140, 720-667-4652. Lunch, Dinner

DEATH & CO DENVER $$$

RiNo / Contemporary The famed New York City bar offers top-notch cocktail service and an inventive menu in the lobby of the Ramble Hotel. Try the smoked wild mushrooms. Reservations not accepted. 1280 25th St., 720-330-2660. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DEL FRISCO’S GRILLE $$$$

Cherry Creek / Contemporary A more casual iteration of the beloved steak house, this venue serves up classic dishes with modern twists and local ingredients. Don’t miss the cheese steak egg rolls. Reservations accepted. 100 St. Paul St., Suite 140, 303-320-8529. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

DENVER CENTRAL MARKET $$

RiNo / International Dining options at this marketplace range from ceviche to ice cream. Take your pick from Crema Bodega, Vero Italian, Curio, High Point Creamery, and more. 2669 Larimer St. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

DENVER CHOPHOUSE & BREWERY $$$

LoDo / Steak House This classic American steak house serves plenty of carnivorous favorites, plus house-made ales. Reservations accepted. 1735 19th St., 303-296-0800. Lunch, Dinner

DENVER MILK MARKET $$

LoDo / International Bonanno Concepts’ 16-venue collection of bars and restaurants features everything from fresh pasta to poke bowls to crab cakes. 1800 Wazee St., 303-7928242. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

DEW DROP INN $$

Uptown / Contemporary Uptown’s chic neighborhood watering hole serves not only fine cocktails but also thoughtful small bites such as the Big Bowl of Mussels. Reservations not accepted. 1033 E. 17th Ave., 720-612-4160. Dinner

DIMESTORE DELIBAR $$

LoHi / American This restaurant, bar, convenience store, and market serves elevated deli fare in an eclectic setting. Try the rolled focaccia sandwiches. Reservations accepted. 1575 Boulder St., Suite A, 303-537-5323. Lunch, Dinner

DIO MIO $$$

RiNo / Italian One thing you can count on at Alexander Figura, Spencer White, and Lulu Clair’s fast-casual Italian eatery: perfect pasta. Try the cacio e pepe or the squid ink creste di galli. Reservations not accepted. 3264 Larimer St., 303-562-1965. Dinner

DOS SANTOS $$

City Park West / Mexican The menu at this modern taqueria features light, seafood-centric dishes, like a beer-battered fish taco. Reservations not accepted. 1475 E. 17th Ave., 303-386-3509. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

DRAGONFLY NOODLE $$

LoDo / Asian This eatery from restaurateur Edwin Zoe serves a multinational variety of bao and noodle dishes. Order any of the slurp-worthy bowls of ramen with house-made noodles. Also try the Boulder location. Reservations not accepted. 1350 16th Street Mall, 720-543-8000. Lunch, Dinner

DRY STORAGE $$

Boulder / Cafe Savor coffee and carbs galore at this innovative cafe and retail grain mill. An exquisite selection of pastries, breads, and sandwiches are made from scratch daily. Reservations not accepted. 3601 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 720-4200918. Breakfast, Lunch

DUO RESTAURANT $$$$

Highland / Contemporary Owners Stephanie Bonin and Keith Arnold have captured the true essence of the neighborhood restaurant. The seasonal cuisine constantly surprises and comforts, and dessert is worth a visit in itself. Reservations accepted. 2413 W. 32nd Ave., 303-477-4141. Dinner, Brunch

EARLY BIRD RESTAURANT $

Westminster / American This attractive breakfast and lunch spot offers a well-balanced menu and local ingredients. The all-day breakfast menu includes open-faced omelets and French toasts. Also try the Greenwood Village location. Reservations not accepted. 11940 Bradburn Blvd., Westminster, 303-469-9641. Breakfast, Lunch

EDGE RESTAURANT & BAR $$$$

Downtown / Steak House Inside the Four Seasons Hotel Denver, this restaurant serves contemporary steak house fare by chef Craig Dryhurst. Order the dry-aged buffalo rib-eye and the wedge salad with blue cheese mousse. Reservations accepted. 1111 14th St., 303-389-3050. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

EDGEWATER INN $$

Edgewater / Pizza This pizzeria has been family owned and operated for more than 60 years. Try the Howdy Pizza, a combo of sausage, peppers, mushrooms, and jalapeños. Reservations not accepted. 5302 W. 25th Ave., Edgewater, 303-2373524. Lunch, Dinner

EDGEWATER PUBLIC MARKET $$

Edgewater / International Satisfy your cravings for everything from wild game sandwiches to Ethiopian fare at this eclectic collective of nearly two dozen food stalls and boutiques. Tenants include Konjo Ethiopian, Lucky Bird, Lazo Empanadas, and more. 5505 W. 20th Ave., Edgewater, 720-749-2239. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

EL FIVE $$$

LoHi / Mediterranean Justin Cucci’s fifth Edible Beats concept boasts panoramic views, a menu of creative tapas, and Spanish-style gin and tonics. Reservations accepted. 2930 Umatilla St., 303-524-9193. Dinner

DIADE NO. 5 WALL PANEL

With its meticulously applied dimensional surface pattern, Diade captures light and shadow in its soft curves and straight lines. Laminated colors of thick wool felt, placed on edge, create a richly detailed panel. One of Submaterial’s most popular panels, Diade brings a warm modern touch to any space.

EL JEFE $$

Sunnyside / Mexican Farm-to-table Mexican fare will lure you to this welcoming Sunnyside haunt. Pair a house margarita with the four-cheese queso dip, and don’t miss the mushroom tacos or the grilled Spanish octopus. Reservations accepted. 2450 W. 44th Ave., 720-389-7615. Dinner, Brunch

EL NOA NOA MEXICAN RESTAURANT $$

Lincoln Park / Mexican This restaurant serves authentic Mexican food with top-notch margaritas. Reservations accepted. 722 Santa Fe Drive, 303-623-9968. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

EL TACO DE MEXICO $

Lincoln Park / Mexican This Denver favorite serves Mexican food with an emphasis on authenticity. Try the chile relleno burrito. Reservations not accepted. 714 Santa Fe Drive, 303-623-3926.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

EL TEPEHUAN $

Englewood / Mexican The team behind this restaurant has been serving its brand of authentic Mexican food for more than 40 years. Reservations accepted. 3495 S. Broadway, Englewood, 303-781-0243. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

ELLYNGTON’S $$$

Downtown / American Located in the Brown Palace Hotel, this is the home of Denver’s power meal. Indulge in the lavish brunch on Sundays. Reservations accepted. 321 17th St., 303-312-5924.

Breakfast, Brunch

ELWAY’S $$$$

Downtown / Steak House This sleek restaurant named after the Broncos great serves classic steak house fare in upscale environs. Multiple locations. Reservations accepted. 1881 Curtis St., 303-312-3107. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

EMPRESS SEAFOOD RESTAURANT $$

Valverde / Chinese This Cantonese restaurant specializes in dim sum and seafood plates. Reservations accepted. 2825 W. Alameda Ave., 303-922-8288. Lunch, Dinner

FAMILLE $$$$

Westminster / French Located inside the Origin Hotel, this all-day bistro specializes in seasonally inspired French fare prepared with sustainable ingredients. Brunch is served daily. Reservations accepted. 8875 Westminster Blvd., Westminster, 720-647-6041. Breakfast, Dinner, Brunch

FAMOUS ORIGINAL J’S PIZZA $$

Five Points / Pizza Joshua Pollack’s New York–style and rectangular “grandma” pies are totally customizable and available by the slice. Try the meat lovers. Reservations not accepted. 715 E. 26th Ave., 720-420-9102. Lunch, Dinner

FARMHOUSE THAI EATERY $$

Lakewood / Thai This cozy spot offers flavorful specialties from multiple regions, including papaya pok pok and khao kha moo. Reservations not accepted. 98 Wadsworth Blvd., Suite 117, Lakewood, 303-237-2475. Lunch, Dinner

FINN’S MANOR $

RiNo / Pub The indoor bar serves a wide selection of cocktails, while food trucks offer a diverse variety of bites, from fried chicken sandwiches to Puerto Rican fare. Reservations not accepted. 2927 Larimer St. Dinner

FIRE RESTAURANT $$$$

Golden Triangle / American Located inside the Art, a Hotel, Fire Restaurant serves contemporary American dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including a roasted half chicken. Reservations accepted. 1201 Broadway, 720-7094431. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

FISH N BEER $$$

RiNo / Seafood Kevin Morrison offers approachable, fresh seafood and a hearty beer list at this casual oysterette. Reservations accepted. 3510 Larimer St., 303-248-3497. Dinner

FLAGSTAFF HOUSE $$$$

Boulder / Contemporary Located on the side of Flagstaff Mountain, this eatery has a huge wine list and a spectacular view of Boulder. Try the Hudson Valley foie gras. Reservations accepted. 1138 Flagstaff Road, Boulder, 303-442-4640. Dinner

FORAGED $$$

LoDo / American Creative, seasonally inspired dishes by chef Duy Pham pair well with the cocktail menu at this expansive Dairy Block restaurant. Reservations accepted. 1825 Blake St., 720-8262147. Lunch, Dinner

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DINING GUIDE

THE FORT $$$$

Morrison / American This Colorado institution offers fine buffalo, beef, seafood, and game. Enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and Denver’s city lights while you dine. Reservations accepted. 19192 CO 8, Morrison, 303-697-4771. Dinner

FOX AND THE HEN $$

LoHi / American This sunny brunch eatery brightens up any morning. The animal-style hash brown smothered in American cheese and special sauce (an homage to In-N-Out) is a must-order, but any of the elevated toasts or egg dishes are a smart way to start your day. Reservations not accepted. 2257 W. 32nd Ave., 303-862-6795. Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch

FRANK & ROZE $

Hale / Cafe This stylish cafe serves sustainably sourced coffee from South America, Africa, Asia, and beyond. Try the breakfast sandwiches. Reservations not accepted. 4097 E. Ninth Ave., 720-328-2960. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

FRASCA FOOD AND WINE $$$$

Boulder / Italian The elegant cuisine always wows at Frasca, an ode to the cuisine of Friuli-Venezia Giulia in northeastern Italy from master sommelier Bobby Stuckey and chef Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson. Splurge on executive chef Ian Palazzola’s ninecourse Friulano menu. Reservations accepted. 1738 Pearl St., Boulder, 303-442-6966. Dinner

FREEDOM STREET SOCIAL $$

Arvada / American Arvada’s first food hall is home to a variety of eight dining concepts and Chef Kitchen, a supper club featuring a rotating roster of chefs. 15177 Candelas Parkway, Arvada, 419349-7468. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

FRENCH 75 $$$

Downtown / French Mizuna’s younger, more casual sibling features approachable French bistro fare. Try the half rotisserie chicken served with garlic sage butter. Reservations accepted. 717 17th St., 303-405-7575. Lunch, Dinner

FRINGE PIZZA $$

Boulder / Italian Fringe serves a full menu of Italian-inspired plates and Neapolitan-style pizza, plus it has 16 taps of craft beer and wine. Reservations not accepted. 2900 Valmont Road, Boulder, 303-386-4631. Lunch, Dinner

FRUITION RESTAURANT $$$$

Country Club / American This farm-to-table restaurant led by executive chef Jarred Russell focuses on seasonal dishes that are big on flavor. Go for any produce-driven small plates. Reservations accepted. 1313 E. Sixth Ave., 303-831-1962. Dinner

GAETANO’S $$$

LoHi / Italian This comfy neighborhood hangout features old-school favorites, such as chicken Parmesan. Reservations accepted. 3760 Tejon St., 303-455-9852. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

GAKU RAMEN $$

Boulder / Japanese This Boulder ramen shop serves three of the most traditional types of the Japanese noodle soup: shoyu, miso, and tonkotsu. Reservations not accepted. 1035 Pearl St., Boulder, 303-442-0782. Lunch, Dinner

GLADYS $

Edgewater / American Vegetable small plates feature at this concept inside Edgewater Public Market. Reservations not accepted. 5505 W. 20th Ave., Suite 116, Edgewater, 303-276-3309. Lunch, Dinner

GLO NOODLE HOUSE $$

West Highland / Asian Blackbelly’s Chris

Teigland and Ariana Pope bring Asian fusion fare to West Highland with Glo Noodle House. Don’t miss the spicy tuna served on a crispy rice cake. Reservations accepted. 4450 W. 38th Ave., Suite 130, 303-993-4180. Dinner

GOLD POINT $

RiNo / American This hip hangout serves craft cocktails and a variety of small and large bites from Caddywampus Comfort Foods. Reservations not accepted. 3126 Larimer St., 720-445-9691. Dinner

GQUE BBQ $$

Westminster / Barbecue This fast-casual joint serves award-winning hickory-smoked pork, brisket, chicken wings, ribs, and more. Also try the Lone Tree location. Reservations not accepted. 5160 W. 120th Ave., Suite K, Westminster, 303-379-9205. Lunch, Dinner

November is Diabetes Awareness Month

GUARD AND GRACE $$$$

Downtown / Steak House Chef Troy Guard’s modern steak house offers a chic setting for its elevated fare. Try the flight of filet mignon. Reservations accepted. 1801 California St., 303-293-8500. Lunch, Dinner

GYU-KAKU JAPANESE BBQ $$$

LoDo / Japanese This Japanese-based chain boasts table-centered grills on which diners cook proteins like Harami skirt steak. There are also noodles and rice dishes. Reservations accepted. 1998 18th St., 720-726-4068. Lunch, Dinner

HASHTAG $$

Central Park / American Prolific Denver chef Troy Guard takes on the breakfast joint with Hashtag. Try the smoked salmon eggs Benedict. Reservations not accepted. 10155 E. 29th Drive, 303-993-6896. Breakfast

HASU SUSHI & GRILL $$$

Cherry Creek / Asian Try the aptly named Amazing Roll: chopped fatty tuna, cucumber, and scallion on the inside; avocado, crispy kani, eel, and special sauce on the outside. Reservations accepted. 250 Steele St., Suite 104, 303-722-9968.

Lunch, Dinner

HIGHLAND TAP AND BURGER $$

LoHi / American Pick your patty, bun, and premium toppings for a customizable meal enhanced with a choice of more than a dozen Colorado craft beers. Multiple locations. Reservations accepted. 2219 W. 32nd Ave., 720-287-4493. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

HIGHLAND’S INDIAN CUISINE $$$

Highlands Ranch / Indian Enjoy upscale curries, biryani, and tandoori selections at the first Indian restaurant in Highlands Ranch. Reservations not accepted. 9344 Dorchester St., Suite 101, Highlands Ranch, 720-420-9374. Lunch, Dinner

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• Frequent urination

• Excessive thirst

• Excessive irritability

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• Nausea and vomiting

• Weakness and fatigue

• $20,000 is the average cost for the first year of a newly diagnosed patient

• More than 90% of Colorado children diagnosed with type 1 are served at the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes

• 45 states and 33 countries are represented through patients at the Barbara Davis Center

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HIRA CAFE & PATISSERIE $

Aurora / Ethiopian Pastry chef-owner Hiwot Solomon pairs her from-scratch desserts and Ethiopian breakfast plates with house-roasted, single-origin coffee at this cheery cafe. Reservations not accepted. 10782 E. Iliff Ave., Aurora, 720-949-1703. Breakfast, Lunch

HONEY ELIXIR $$

RiNo / Contemporary Nonalcoholic potions, boozy cocktails, sipping chocolate, and teas‚ along with a menu of light bites, are the draw at this stunning bar. Reservations not accepted. 2636 Walnut St., Suite 104, 720-328-5992. Dinner

HOP ALLEY $$

RiNo / Chinese From Tommy Lee of Uncle, this neighborhood hangout serves dishes rooted in Chinese tradition with a touch of distinctive flair. Reservations accepted. 3500 Larimer St., 720-379-8340. Dinner

HOPS & PIE $$

Berkeley / Pizza Craft pizza and local brews are this spot’s forte. Load up your pie with toppings such as Texas barbecue sauce and jalapeño, and wash it all down with a choice of more than 20 beers. Reservations not accepted. 3920 Tennyson St., 303-477-7000. Lunch, Dinner

HUDSON HILL $$

Capitol Hill / American Head to this upscale yet casual bar for craft cocktails like the pineapple daiquiri. Enjoy your drink with a cheese plate or pickled okra. Reservations not accepted. 619 E. 13th St., 303-832-0776. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

IL PORCELLINO SALUMI $$

Berkeley / Deli This market and deli strives to provide the highest-quality, locally raised cured meats in Colorado. Pick a selection to take with you, or enjoy a fresh salumi platter or sandwich in-house. Reservations not accepted. 4324 W. 41st Ave., 303-477-3206. Breakfast, Lunch

IL POSTO $$$$

RiNo / Italian Sample Andrea Frizzi’s imaginative Italian cuisine in a sleek, metropolitan environment. Don’t miss the seasonal risotto or the pineapple zeppole (Italian doughnut holes) with passionfruit coulis and coconut anglaise. Reservations accepted. 2601 Larimer St., 303-394-0100.

Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

IMPERIAL CHINESE $$$

Baker / Asian This stalwart offers Cantonese, Mandarin, and Sichuan food in an elegant setting. Reservations accepted. 431 S. Broadway, 303-698-2800. Lunch, Dinner

INDIA’S RESTAURANT $$

Hampden / Indian This spot serves traditional fare, including flavorful dishes like tandoori chicken. Take advantage of the lunch buffet, and be sure to try the cinnamon bread pudding. Reservations accepted. 8921 E. Hampden Ave., 303-755-4284.

Lunch, Dinner

ISTANBUL CAFE & BAKERY $

Washington Virginia Vale / Middle Eastern Inside the shopping center at the intersection of South Monaco Parkway and Leetsdale Drive, friendly owner Ismet Yilmaz prepares authentic Turkish pastries. Reservations not accepted. 850 S. Monaco Parkway, Suite 9, 720-787-7751. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

IZAKAYA DEN $$$

Platt Park / Japanese Ultra-fresh sushi, sashimi, and creative small plates are on the menu at this local favorite. Reservations accepted. 1487-A S. Pearl St., 303-777-0691. Dinner

J’S NOODLES STAR THAI 2 $

Westwood / Thai This traditional Thai spot has developed a cult following over the years. The tom yum soup, drunken noodles, and pad thai are regulars’ picks. Reservations not accepted. 945 S. Federal Blvd., 303-922-5495. Lunch, Dinner

JAMAICAN GRILLE $$

Lincoln Park / Jamaican This family-owned Jamaican restaurant serves classic Caribbean-centric dishes like jerk chicken, fried plantains, and rice and peas. Reservations accepted. 709 W. Eighth Ave., 303-623-0013. Lunch, Dinner

JAX FISH HOUSE & OYSTER BAR $$$

LoDo / Seafood Enjoy sustainable seafood in an upbeat atmosphere. Specialties include the raw oyster bar and seasonally composed plates. Multiple locations. Reservations accepted. 1539 17th St., 303-292-5767. Dinner

It’s about SAVORING LIFE.

A great meal is more than just great ingredients. It’s making new memories with old friends around the table. It’s about sharing stories, laughs, and maybe even dessert. At Canvas, we help our members thrive so they can taste more of what life is really about.

JERUSALEM RESTAURANT $$

University / Middle Eastern You can’t beat this spot’s tasty, affordable, and traditional Middle Eastern fare, including gyros, baba ghanoush, and sambusas. Reservations accepted. 1890 E. Evans Ave., 303-777-8828. Lunch, Dinner

JOVANINA’S BROKEN ITALIAN $$$$

LoDo / Italian This gorgeous LoDo eatery expands on traditional Italian fare by incorporating unexpected, seasonal ingredients. Reservations accepted. 1520 Blake St., 720-541-7721. Dinner

KACHINA CANTINA $$$

LoDo / Southwestern Located in the Dairy Block, this spot specializes in Southwestern fare, such as pozole. Reservations accepted. 1890 Wazee St., 720-460-2728. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

KAHLO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT $$

Westwood / Mexican Enjoy plates of mole and enchiladas verdes, as well as a menu of almost 30 different juices and smoothies, in a space decorated with the art of Frida Kahlo. Reservations accepted. 3735 Morrison Road, 303-936-0758. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

KAOS PIZZERIA $$

Platt Park / Pizza A wood-fired oven, gourmet ingredients, and wine to-go make this a perfect pizzeria for dine-in or delivery. If the weather’s nice, eat outside in the spacious garden area. Reservations accepted. 1439 S. Pearl St, 303-7335267. Lunch, Dinner

KARMA ASIAN CUISINE $$

Speer / Asian Go out to this trendy eatery for a variety of Asian tapas (such as spicy edamame or calamari salad), or get more bang for your buck with the Thai bang bang chicken and shrimp. Reservations not accepted. 22 S. Broadway, 303-871-0167. Lunch, Dinner

KATSU RAMEN $$

Aurora / Japanese Satisfy your cravings with one of the traditional styles offered at this cozy spot. Get the most out of your dollar with a combo meal. Reservations not accepted. 1930 S. Havana St., Aurora, 303-751-2222. Lunch, Dinner

THE KITCHEN AMERICAN BISTRO $$$

LoDo / American Seasonally inspired classics, an excellent drinks menu, and warm hospitality are the draw. Also try the Boulder location. Reservations accepted. 1560 Wazee St., 303-623-3127. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

KOBE AN $$$

Cherry Creek / Asian Everything is traditional at this Japanese restaurant, including the seating. The menu features tempura, gyoza, and yakisoba. Reservations accepted. 231 Milwaukee St., 303-989-5907. Dinner

KP ASIAN CAFE $$

Aurora / Chinese At KP Asian Cafe, owner Kevin Chu serves specialties from across China. Reservations not accepted. 12201 E. Mississippi Ave., Suite 111, Aurora, 720-456-7745. Lunch, Dinner

LA CALLE TAQUERIA Y CARNITAS $

Valverde / Mexican This is a must-visit destination for taco lovers. Try the tacos al pastor and carnitas and don’t skip the salsa bar. Reservations not accepted. 1565 W. Alameda Ave., 720-583-6586. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

LA CHIVA $$

Platt Park / Colombian This brick-and-mortar, spawned from the popular food truck of the same name, gives Denverites a cozy, colorful place to enjoy the cuisine of chef-owner Jorge Aguirre’s native Colombia. Try the sancocho, a hearty, slow-simmered soup made with chicken, green plantain, yuca, corn, and Colombian spices. Reservations accepted. 1446 S. Broadway, 720-389-9847. Lunch, Dinner

LA CUEVA $$

Aurora / Mexican You’ll find excellent chiles rellenos and refried beans at this spot, plus a nice wine list and more than 120 types of tequila. Reservations accepted. 9742 E. Colfax Ave., Aurora, 303-367-1422. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

LA DIABLA POZOLE Y MEZCAL $

Ballpark / Mexican This lively eatery from James Beard Award finalist Jose Avila serves up comforting pozole and other traditional Mexican fare at affordable prices. Don’t miss the weekend brunch for chilaquiles, huaraches, and a killer house michelada. Reservations not accepted. 2233 Larimer St., 720-519-1060. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

IT’S MANHATTAN SEASON!

THE PERFECT MANHATTAN

1 ½ oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon

¾ oz Sweet Vermouth

2 dashes Angostura® Bitters

50/50

1 oz Woodford Reserve Rye Whiskey

1 oz Sweet Vermouth

2 dashes Bitters

ESPRESSO

1 oz Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon

¾ oz Coffee Liqueur

½ oz Sweet Vermouth

LE BILBOQUET $$$$

Cherry Creek / French An offshoot of the more than 30-year-old New York City establishment, Le Bilboquet serves upscale French fare in a posh setting. Try the foie gras terrine and the mussels. Reservations accepted. 299 St. Paul St., 303-8359999. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

LE FRENCH $$

Hampden / French This chic Belleview Station bistro, owned by French-Senegalese sisters, transports diners through Parisian cuisine with African influences. Pick up some pastries to-go for later from the on-site bakery. Reservations accepted. 4901 S. Newport St., 720-710-8963.

Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

LEVEN DELI CO. $$

Golden Triangle / Deli Classic deli meets California cool at this bright spot. Get a taste of the house-made pastrami on the Reuben sandwich or go for the crisp chop salad. Reservations not accepted. 123 W. 12th Ave., 303-325-5691. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

LINGER $$

LoHi / International Located in the former three-story Olinger Mortuary, this restaurant takes you around the world through a menu of globally inspired small plates. Enjoy fabulous views of downtown while choosing from inviting menus of bites and cocktails. Reservations accepted. 2030 W. 30th Ave., 303-993-3120.

Dinner, Brunch

LITTLE ANITA’S NEW MEXICAN FOOD $

Virginia Village / Latin American This spot is known for its great New Mexican fare. The breakfast burritos are divine. Multiple locations. Reservations not accepted. 1550 S. Colorado Blvd., 303-691-3337. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

LITTLE OLLIE’S $$$

Cherry Creek / Asian This resturant serves classic Chinese-American fare. Reservations accepted. 2364 E. Third Ave., 303-316-8888. Lunch, Dinner

LO STELLA RISTORANTE $$$$

Golden Triangle / Italian Lo Stella is the sister restaurant to the acclaimed original of the same name in Portofino, Italy. Don’t miss house-made ravioli and scratch-made desserts. Reservations accepted. 1135 Bannock St., 303-825-1995. Dinner

LOCANDA DEL BORGO $$$

Hilltop / Italian This modern Italian restaurant offers house-made pasta and entrées cooked on a wood-burning grill. Reservations accepted. 5575 E. Third Ave., 303-388-0282. Lunch, Dinner

LOGAN STREET RESTAURANT & BAR $$$

Speer / Mediterranean From the owners behind Carboy Winery, Logan Street serves woodfired fare, fresh pastas, and flatbreads that pair well with the house-made vino. Stop by the wine bar and tasting room next door. Reservations accepted. 400 E. Seventh Ave., 720-617-9400. Dinner

LOS CARBONCITOS $$

Villa Park / Mexican Enjoy fresh Mexican food cooked in an open kitchen. Order the alambre, with your choice of tortilla, meat, cheese, and vegetables. Multiple locations. Reservations not accepted. 722 Sheridan Blvd., 303-573-1617.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

LOS CHINGONES $$

RiNo / Mexican Los Chingones offers shareable Mexican fusion cuisine with distinctive style. Enjoy a delicious lineup of quesos, enchiladas, and tacos and a selection of tequila-based cocktails. Multiple locations. Reservations not accepted. 2463 Larimer St., 303-295-0686.

Lunch, Dinner

LOU’S ITALIAN SPECIALTIES $$ Curtis Park / Italian This takeout-only spot by Josh Pollack of Rosenberg’s Bagels & Delicatessen takes after classic Tri State Italian delis. Try the Louie, a classic sub packed with genoa salami, capicola, and ham sliced to-order, along with provolone cheese and drizzles of oil and vinegar. Reservations not accepted. 3357 N. Downing St., 720-287-3642. Lunch, Dinner

LOWRY BEER GARDEN $

Lowry Field / American This traditional, Germanstyle beer garden celebrates Colorado breweries with 16 draft lines (almost all of which serve local beer). Try the burgers or bratwurst with house-cut french fries. Reservations not accepted. 7577 E. Academy Blvd., 303-366-0114. Lunch, Dinner

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LUCA $$$$

Capitol Hill / Italian Convivial hospitality and classic Italian dishes greet you at this spot. Don’t miss the house-made Burrata cheese. Reservations accepted. 711 Grant St., 303-832-6600. Dinner

LUCILE’S CREOLE CAFÉ $

Speer / Cajun Lucile’s offers Cajun and Creolestyle breakfasts and lunches with warm hospitality. Order the pain perdu, New Orleans–style French toast served with hot Louisiana sausage and buttery praline syrup. Multiple locations. Reservations not accepted. 275 S. Logan St., 303-282-6258. Breakfast, Lunch

LUCINA EATERY & BAR $$$

South Park Hill / Latin American Bold flavors from Latin America, the Caribbean, and coastal Spain tantalize at this lively restaurant. Try the mofongo, a plantain mash with pork belly chicharrón, or the two-person paella with rotating toppings only served on Fridays and Saturdays. Reservations accepted. 2245 Kearney St., Suite 101, 720-814-1053. Dinner

MACHETE TEQUILA & TACOS $ Cherry Creek / Mexican Enjoy an extensive list of fine tequilas at this Cherry Creek eatery, and don’t forget to order the sumptuous tacos al

pastor. Also try the Union Station location. Reservations accepted. 2817 E. Third Ave., 303-333-1567. Lunch, Dinner

MAINE SHACK $$$

LoHi / Seafood New Englanders and seafood fans, rejoice: This fast-casual spot is slinging lobster rolls, fried whole-belly clams, chowder, roast beef sandwiches, and more. Multiple locations. Reservations not accepted. 1535 Central St., 303-997-2118. Lunch, Dinner

MAJOR TOM $$$$

RiNo / American This lounge from the team behind Beckon offers a Champagne-centric drink menu and a delectable lineup of shareable bites. Throw back some oysters on the beautiful patio space. Reservations accepted. 2845 Larimer St., 303-848-9777. Dinner, Brunch

MANGO HOUSE $$

Aurora / International This immigrant- and refugee-led food hall is home to six outstanding culinary concepts, including Urban Burma, Jasmine Syrian Food, and Nepali Spice. 10180 E. Colfax Ave., Aurora, 303-900-8639. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

MARCO’S COAL-FIRED $$

Ballpark / Pizza This spot serves beautifully blistered Neapolitan-style pies, coal-fired limoncello wings, and more. Also try the Englewood location. Reservations accepted. 2129 Larimer St., 303-2967000. Lunch, Dinner

MARIGOLD $$$

Lyons / European This small, light-filled restaurant serves seasonally driven French- and Italian-influenced fare. The pink-peppercornlaced farinata (chickpea pancake) is a delicious mainstay of the frequently changing menu; the amaro-centric cocktail program is also delightful. Reservations accepted. 405 Main St., Suite B, Lyons, 303-823-2333. Dinner

MASON’S DUMPLING SHOP $$ Aurora / Chinese A menu of house-made steamed, boiled, and pan-fried dumplings complements a selection of noodle and rice bowls and vegetable-forward sides at this Los Angeles–born spot. Reservations not accepted. 9655 E. Montview Blvd., 303-600-8998. Lunch, Dinner

MATSUHISA $$$$

Cherry Creek / Japanese Legendary chef Nobu Matsuhisa kicks Japanese staples up to the next level. Start with signature uni shooters and don’t miss the black cod with sweet miso. Reservations accepted. 98 Steele St., 303-329-6628. Dinner

MEHAK INDIA’S AROMA $$$

Cherry Creek / Indian There’s not a buffet in sight at this upscale Indian restaurant, where everything from chicken korma to lamb vindaloo is on the menu. Reservations accepted. 250 Steele St., Suite 100, 720-638-9350. Lunch, Dinner

MERCANTILE DINING & PROVISION $$$

LoDo / American Chef Alex Seidel offers upscale, contemporary farm-to-table fare, including pasta dishes and family-style shared plates. Reservations accepted. 1701 Wynkoop St., Suite 155, 720-460-3733. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

MERCURY CAFE $$$

Five Points / Mexican Enjoy live music and a tasty roster of tortas and tacos at this historic venue. Reservations accepted. 2199 California St., 303-294-9258. Dinner

MISFIT SNACKBAR $$

City Park / Contemporary You’ll never be bored by the imaginative, flavor-packed offerings from chef-owner Bo Porytko at this eclectic concept housed inside Middleman cocktail bar. Start with the chips and dip: smashed potatoes with an everchanging house sauce. Reservations not accepted. 3401 E. Colfax Ave., 303-353-4207. Dinner

MISTER OSO $$$

RiNo / Latin American This casual Señor Bear spinoff offers a Latin-inspired menu featuring smoked meat tacos, creative ceviches, and salads. Reservations accepted. 3163 Larimer St., 720-677-6454. Lunch, Dinner

MIZU IZAKAYA $$

LoHi / Sushi This contemporary Japanese restaurant offers an impressive bar and a hip atmosphere. Order items from the binchotan (charcoal grill) or the raw bar, or give appetizers like the cream pork kimchi a try. Reservations accepted. 1560 Boulder St., 720-372-7100. Lunch, Dinner

MIZUNA $$$$

Capitol Hill / Contemporary Chef-owner Frank Bonanno’s seasonal cuisine capitalizes on fresh ingredients. Don’t miss the decadent beef Wellington. Reservations accepted. 225 E. Seventh Ave., 303-832-4778. Dinner

MOE’S ORIGINAL BAR B QUE $

Englewood / Barbecue Don’t miss the pulled pork and baked beans at this Southern-style barbecue joint Reservations accepted. 3295 S. Broadway, Englewood, 303-781-0414. Lunch, Dinner

MONO MONO KOREAN FRIED CHICKEN $$

LoDo / Korean Savor crispy Korean fried chicken wings along with sides like kimchi and pickled daikon and starters like gochujangslathered spicy rice cakes at this industrial eatery. Multiple locations. Reservations not accepted. 1550 Blake St., 720-379-6567. Lunch, Dinner

MOXIE EATERY $

Speer / International Taste local Colorado ingredients in the lamb sandwich or chicken ramen at this globally inspired eatery. Be sure to try the vegetarian acorn squash torta. Reservations not accepted. 70 Broadway, Suite 150, 303-524-9236. Breakfast, Lunch

MY BROTHER’S BAR $

LoHi / Pub Enjoy beers and burgers with classical music in one of Denver’s oldest bars. Order the JCB burger with jalapeño cream cheese. Reservations not accepted. 2376 15th St., 303-455-9991.

Lunch, Dinner

NARRATIVE $$$$

Cherry Creek / American Chef Paul Nagan serves gussied-up versions of American favorites‚ such as shrimp and grits with Tabasco butter‚ at this sleek eatery. Reservations accepted. 222 Milwaukee St., 720-571-8080. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

NEST CAFE & BAR $$

West Highland / Health This counter-service eatery inside Nurture marketplace offers a menu of smoothies, coffee, salads, tartines, dosas, and other wholesome fare. Reservations not accepted. 2949 Federal Blvd., 303-390-1252. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

NEW SAIGON $$

Westwood / Vietnamese This spot serves an extensive menu featuring delicious rice paper wraps, salads, pho, seafood dishes, duck, and more. Reservations accepted. 630 S. Federal Blvd., 303-936-4954. Lunch, Dinner

NI TUYO

$$$

Belcaro / Mexican Visit this Bonnie Brae eatery for bubbly molcajetes, piping-hot stone bowls of Mexican meats and veggies stewed in chile sauce. Or grab a seat at the bar for a tasty margarita with an order of chips and salsa. Reservations not accepted. 730 S. University Blvd., 303-2828896. Dinner

NOBLE RIOT

$$$

RiNo / American Find charcuterie boards, fried chicken, and other bites at this sommelieroperated natural wine bar. Reservations accepted. 1336 27th St., 303-993-5330. Dinner

NOISETTE RESTAURANT & BAKERY $$$

LoHi / French Chefs Tim and Lillian Lu serve elegant renditions of bourgeoisie-style specialties (French home-cooked comforts) in a romantic, light-drenched space. Tear into the perfectly crisp baguette to set the Parisian scene for your dining experience. Reservations accepted. 3254 Navajo St., Suite 100, 720-769-8103. Dinner, Brunch

NOLA VOODOO TAVERN AND PERKS $$

Clayton / Southern New Orleans native and owner Henry Batiste serves his grandmother’s recipes for gumbo, po’ boys, and much more at this Louisiana-inspired spot. Reservations accepted. 3321 Bruce Randolph Ave., 720-3899544. Lunch, Dinner

NORTH COUNTY $$

Lowry Field / Mexican With a beach bar atmosphere in a landlocked space, this San Diego–inspired taqueria boasts a daily catch of grilled fish tacos and a bar full of tequila libations and spiked sodas batched and bottled in house. Reservations accepted. 94 Rampart Way, 720-532-0106. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

OAK AT FOURTEENTH $$$$

Boulder / Seasonal This bright space just off the Pearl Street Mall offers a diverse, ever-changing menu of seasonal, oak-fired eats from chef Steve Redzikowski and creative cocktails from Bryan Dayton. Order the kale salad, roasted ocean trout, or a handmade pasta. Reservations accepted. 1400 Pearl St., Boulder, 303-444-3622. Dinner

OCEAN PRIME $$$$

LoDo / Seafood A marriage between land and sea, this supper club offers steak-house dining and fresh fish in one. Reservations accepted. 1465 Larimer St., 303-825-3663. Dinner

OFFICERS CLUB $$$

Lowry Field / American Try American staples like cheddar biscuits, French dips, and bacon burgers at this spot inspired by the Lowry Air Force Base. Reservations accepted. 84 Rampart Way, 303-284-0714. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

OHANA ISLAND KITCHEN $

LoHi / Seafood This Hawaiian-inspired eatery serves top-notch tuna poke, Spam musubi, and more. Reservations not accepted. 2563 15th St., 303-718-6580. Lunch, Dinner

OLIVE & FINCH $$

City Park West / American Discover wholesome, inspired meals at this restaurant, bakery, and juice bar, where you’ll find a full coffee bar, artisan sandwiches, hearty soups, tasty salads, and daily house-made pastries. Also try the Cherry Creek location. Reservations not accepted. 1552 E. 17th Ave., 303-832-8663. Breakfast, Lunch

ONEFOLD $$

City Park West / Contemporary This eatery does early-day dining justice. Pair the bacon fried rice with house-made bone broth, Vietnamese iced coffee, or a local IPA. Reservations not accepted. 1420 E. 18th Ave., 303-954-0877. Breakfast, Lunch

OPHELIA’S ELECTRIC SOAPBOX $$

Ballpark / Contemporary This Edible Beats restaurant features quirky design details and a stage for live music. The “gastro-brothel” menu features globally inspired pub fare like flatbreads, small plates, and burgers. Reservations accepted. 1215 20th St., 303-993-8023. Dinner, Brunch

OSAKA RAMEN $$

RiNo / Japanese Jeff Osaka’s modern ramen shop features original noodle soups, bento boxes, and creative small plates. Try the mochi doughnuts. Reservations not accepted. 2611 Walnut St., 303-955-7938. Lunch, Dinner

OSAKA’S $$

Boulder / Japanese Try one of the signature Osaka Burgers, which sub a savory Japanese pancake (okonomiyaki) for the traditional bun, at this Boulder restaurant. Reservations accepted. 2460 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, 720-398-9115. Dinner

OSTERIA MARCO $$$

LoDo / Italian This casual tavern features deepset wooden booths, a spacious bar, and approachable eats. Reservations accepted. 1453 Larimer St., 303-534-5855. Lunch, Dinner

PALENQUE COCINA Y AGAVERIA $$

Littleton / Mexican Sip on a wide variety of mezcals and snack on ceviche and flautitas at this neighborhood favorite bar and restaurant. Reservations accepted. 2609 W. Main St., Littleton, 720-928-3318. Lunch, Dinner

Photo: From the Hip Photography

with Peter Oundjian

3-5

PLEASE HELP MAUI

DINING GUIDE

PARK & CO $

Uptown / American This casual tavern serves sandwiches and salads but specializes in gourmet burgers. Try the Hatch burger. Reservations not accepted. 439 E. 17th Ave., 720-328-6732. Lunch, Dinner

PARK BURGER $

Platt Park / American This neighborhood eatery serves up top-notch burgers, such as the Royale with caramelized onions, blue cheese, and bacon. Add a milkshake. Multiple locations. Reservations not accepted. 1890 S. Pearl St., 720-242-9951. Lunch, Dinner

PARK HILL SUSHI CO. $$

Hale / Sushi This quick-service sushi spot specializes in made-to-order hand rolls. Order a hand roll set and choose from a variety of fresh fillings like blue crab, spicy tuna, and spicy scallop. Multiple locations. Reservations accepted. 4900 E. Colfax Ave., 303-953-9581. Lunch, Dinner

PETE’S KITCHEN $ Cheesman Park / American A Denver staple for late-night food, Pete’s is known for its breakfasts but serves burgers, gyros, and souvlaki sandwiches all day. Reservations not accepted. 1962 E. Colfax Ave., 303-321-3139. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

PHO 95 $$

Mar Lee / Vietnamese Authentic Vietnamese cuisine is served up every day at this noodle house. Try your pho in any of the 22 different ways that are offered. Also try the Centennial location. Reservations not accepted. 1401 S. Federal Blvd., 303-936-3322. Lunch, Dinner

PHO DUY $

Westwood / Vietnamese Slurp down delicious bowls of noodle soup at this popular Vietnamese mainstay. Reservations not accepted. 925 S. Federal Blvd., 303-937-1609. Lunch, Dinner

PHOENICIAN KABOB $$$

South Park Hill / Mediterranean This quiet restaurant serves a solid menu of Middle Eastern and Lebanese fare. Try the sabanekh, pastries stuffed with spinach, onion, and pine nuts. Reservations accepted. 5709 E. Colfax Ave., 720-477-0046.

Lunch, Dinner

THE PIG & THE SPROUT $$

LoDo / American Tucked behind Union Station, this dichotomous eatery offers something for everyone. Order the brisket poutine from the Pig side of the menu, or opt for lighter fare, such as a veggie stir fry, from the Sprout side. Reservations accepted. 1900 Chestnut Place, 720-535-9719.

Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

PIZZERIA ALBERICO $$

Boulder / Pizza Inspired by the pizzerias of Southern Italy, this contemporary pizza joint from the creators of Frasca Hospitality Group offers a modern take on a traditional classic. Order the mais pizza. Reservations accepted. 1730 Pearl St., Boulder, 303-442-3003. Lunch, Dinner

PIZZERIA LUI $$

Lakewood / Pizza Delicious, seasonal pies are baked to order in a Gianni Acunto Napoli oven imported from Naples, Italy. Try the street taco

pizza, which is topped with house-made chorizo, corn, cotija cheese, tomatillo salsa, mozarella, and cilantro. Reservations not accepted. 5380 W. Mississippi Ave., Lakewood, 303-922-3202. Dinner

THE PLIMOTH $$$$

Skyland / American An emphasis on locally farmed and foraged ingredients results in an ever-changing menu of seasonal dishes, like cauliflower paprikash and maple-glazed winter squash. Reservations accepted. 2335 E. 28th Ave., 303-297-1215. Dinner

POINT EASY

$$$$

Whittier / Contemporary This casual, inviting farm-to-table eatery produces feasts made with thoughtfully sourced ingredients, many of which are local. Reservations accepted. 2000 E. 28th Ave., 303-233-5656. Dinner

PONY UP $$

LoDo / Pub This casual bar serves comforting fare such as French dip sandwiches and fried chicken with craft cocktails and lots of bubbly. Reservations not accepted. 1808 Blake St., 720-710-8144. Dinner

THE PORKLET $

Aurora / Asian This fast-casual spot in a shopping center excels at producing renditions of katsu (fried cutlets encrusted in panko breadcrumbs). The Volcano Fried Rice is a must. Reservations not accepted. 12201 E. Mississippi Ave., Suite 123B, Aurora, 303-364-1287. Lunch, Dinner

PORT SIDE $

RiNo / American Grab a slice of avocado toast or a grilled cheese to pair with your Huckleberry Roasters espresso at this bright cafe. Reservations not accepted. 2500 Larimer St., 720-549-0622.

Breakfast, Lunch

THE POST CHICKEN & BEER $$

Rosedale / Southern This fast-casual venue, the younger sibling to the Lafayette location, offers good ol’ Southern comfort food and great beer. The fried chicken can be enjoyed either on a sandwich or as a platter accompanied by a biscuit and side dish. Multiple locations. Reservations accepted. 2200 S. Broadway, 720-466-5699.

Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

POST OAK BARBECUE $$

Berkeley / Barbecue Texas barbecue smoked over the restaurant’s namesake wood is the draw at this Tennyson Street joint. Don’t miss the certified Angus prime brisket and the house-made sausage. Reservations not accepted. 4000 Tennyson St., 303-458-1555.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

POTAGER $$$

Capitol Hill / Contemporary Since 1997, this rustic Capitol Hill restaurant has specialized in fresh, seasonally driven food. The menu replete with small- and large-format plates changes once a month. Dine in the back garden. Reservations accepted. 1109 N. Ogden St., 303-246-7073. Dinner

PROTO’S PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA $$

LoHi / Pizza Enjoy Italian-style pizza, fresh salads, and a nice wine list at this local chain. Multiple locations from Denver to Boulder. Reservations accepted. 2401 15th St., 720-8559400. Lunch, Dinner

PUNCH BOWL SOCIAL $$

Baker / American This restaurant is perfect for food and play. Dine any time of day off of the diner-inspired menu while entertaining yourself with bowling, ping-pong, shuffleboard, and more. Also try the Stapleton location. Reservations accepted. 65 N. Broadway, 303-765-2695. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

PUPUSAS LOVER $$

University Hills / Salvadoran Pupusas Lover is a family-owned restaurant serving a variety of traditional dishes from El Salvador, from the popular pupusas to banana leaf tamales. The cozy spot has gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Reservations not accepted. 2236 S. Colorado Blvd., 720-508-3197. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Q HOUSE $$

City Park / Chinese Enjoy a modern take on Chinese cuisine at this City Park eatery operated by chef Christopher Lin, an alum of Momofuku in New York City. Try the braised pork rice served with pickled mustard greens and braising jus. Reservations accepted. 3421 E. Colfax Ave., 720-729-8887. Dinner

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QUALITY ITALIAN $$$$

Cherry Creek / Steak House This upscale spot in Cherry Creek serves a smart mix of steak house fare and American-Italian favorites in warm, contemporary environs. Reservations accepted. 241 Columbine St., 303-532-8888. Dinner, Brunch

QUE BUENO SUERTE $$$

Platt Park / Mexican The menu at this vibrant restaurant offers familiar items like tacos and fajitas as well as upscale, regionally inspired Mexican fare. Try the molcajete on Friday and Saturday. Reservations accepted. 1518 S. Pearl St., 720-6427322. Dinner, Brunch

QUIERO AREPAS $

Platt Park / Latin American The entirely glutenfree menu at this Platt Park eatery offers delicious selections like the pollo guisado arepa, a flatbread that comes stuffed with shredded chicken, black beans, and cheese. Also check out the LoHi location. Reservations not accepted. 1859 S. Pearl St., 720-432-4205.

Lunch, Dinner

RANDALL’S $$

Cole / Southern This restaurant in the Cole neighborhood serves up comforting Southernand Cajun-inspired fare with a side of warm hospitality. We suggest going for homey offerings like the fried catfish dinner. Reservations not accepted. 3349 York St., 720-583-0473.

Lunch, Dinner

RECESS BEER GARDEN $$

LoHi / American This spot offers an oasis to sample 25 local and international cold brews on tap. Between beers, nibble on the pork torta or tuck into a hearty burger. Reservations not accepted. 2715 17th St., 720-638-0020. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

RESTAURANT OLIVIA $$$$

Washington Park / Italian This cozy yet modern neighborhood spot from the team behind Bistro Georgette specializes in fresh pastas and Italian classics like porchetta. The ravioli and other stuffed pastas are must-orders. Reservations accepted. 290 S. Downing St., 303-999-0395. Dinner

REWILD $$$

West Highland / American Enjoy veggieforward small plates and locally sourced mains at Nurture’s eveningtime restaurant, helmed by chef Juan Tapia. Don’t miss dishes like the Burrata salad topped with plums. Reservations accepted. 2949 Federal Blvd., 303-390-1252. Dinner

REYNARD SOCIAL $$

LoDo / American Classic cocktails and upscale bites are the draw at the Reynard Social, located in the Thompson Hotel downtown. Try the earthy, umami-forward wild mushroom fondue with slices of grilled bread and assorted, citrusmarinated olives. Reservations accepted. 1616 Market St., 303-572-1321. Dinner

RIO GRANDE MEXICAN RESTAURANT $$$

LoDo / Mexican Natural ingredients, fresh produce, and unique flavors characterize this Mexican spot. Enjoy the famous margaritas, but be careful, the staff will cut you off after three. Multiple locations. Reservations accepted. 1745 Wazee St., 303-623-5432. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

RIOJA $$$$

LoDo / Mediterranean James Beard Award–winning chef Jennifer Jasinski creates high-end Mediterranean-influenced cuisine at this eatery. Also try her lunchtime takeout pop-up, Flavor Dojo, which offers health-forward bowls. Reservations accepted. 1431 Larimer St., 303-820-2282. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

RIVER AND WOODS $$$$

Boulder / Contemporary Settle into the cozy dining room for a relaxed dinner including dishes such as Burrata-stuffed meatloaf. Chef Daniel Asher’s eclectic menu features community-sourced comfort cuisine. Reservations accepted. 2328 Pearl St., Boulder, 303-9936301. Dinner, Brunch

ROAMING BUFFALO BAR-B-QUE $$

Rosedale / Barbecue House-smoked Colorado craft barbecue is the specialty at this laid-back spot. Innovative meats like bison back ribs and pulled Colorado lamb are available by the pound. Reservations not accepted. 2387 S. Downing St., 303-722-2226. Lunch, Dinner

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VISIT

ROOM FOR MILLY $$

LoHi / American A menu of refined small plates and killer cocktails complements a jazz-age ambiance inspired by a fictional globe-trotting socialite at Room for Milly. Reservations not accepted. 1615 Platte St., Suite 145, 720-6307020. Dinner

ROOT DOWN

$$$

LoHi / Contemporary Located in a refabbed 1950s service station, this restaurant serves global cuisine with a focus on vegetables. Also try the DIA location. Reservations accepted. 1600 W. 33rd Ave., 303-993-4200. Dinner, Brunch

ROSENBERG’S BAGELS & DELICATESSEN $$

Five Points / Deli Get your fix of New York–style bagels at this Five Points deli. Don’t miss the Standard topped with gravlax, tomato, and onion. Also try the Stanley Marketplace location. Reservations not accepted. 725 E. 26th Ave., 720-440-9880. Breakfast, Lunch

ROSETTA HALL $$

Boulder / International T he tenants of Boulder’s first food hall include Amira, Shanghai Moon, Cruz, Petite Fleur, Amalfi, and more. Grab a seat on the cozy rooftop deck. 1109 Walnut St., Boulder, 720-306-1044. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

ROUGE WINE & BOURBON BISTRO $$$

Greenwood Village / American From the team behind Pindustry, this 1920s-themed bar boasts an extensive wine list and international small plates, like lamb merguez and green curry mussels. Reservations not accepted. 7939 E. Arapahoe Road, Suite 190, Greenwood Village, 720-8649463. Dinner, Brunch

ROXY ON BROADWAY $$

PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

Washington Park West / International A 1920s ambience is paired with classic cocktails, small plates, and live music. Try the falafel burger with sprouts and tahini dressing or the Swedish meatballs. Reservations accepted. 554 S. Broadway, 720-456-7041. Dinner, Brunch

RUN FOR THE ROSES $$$

PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

OCTOBER 6-8

FRIDAY – SUNDAY, 9 A.M. – 4 P.M.

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C-470 & Wadsworth Blvd.

LoDo / Contemporary You’ll find classic cocktails and gourmet parlor snacks at this underground bar in the Dairy Block. Try the absinthe-andvermouth Loftus cocktail. Reservations not accepted. 1801 Blake St., 720-573-9155. Dinner

RYE SOCIETY DELICATESSEN AND PICKLERY $$

RiNo / Deli Stop by this neighborhood Jewish deli for comfort-food favorites including pastrami sandwiches, bagels with lox, and buttery rugelach. Reservations not accepted. 3090 Larimer St., 720-614-1135. Breakfast, Lunch

SAFTA $$$$

RiNo / Mediterranean At Safta, acclaimed chef Alon Shaya and his team serve modern Israeli fare. Crave-worthy specialties include hummus, labneh, and other dips accompanied by wood-oven pita and crispy Persian rice with cherries and sunflower seeds. Also check out the weekend brunch buffet. Reservations accepted. 3330 Brighton Blvd., Suite 201, 720-408-2444. Dinner, Brunch

SAME CAFÉ $$

City Park West / Seasonal SAME is short for So All May Eat, which means pay-what-you-can pricing with an ever-changing menu. Reservations not accepted. 2023 E. Colfax Ave., 720-530-6853. Lunch

SANTO $$

Boulder / Southwestern Hosea Rosenberg’s second restaurant brings bold New Mexican flavors to Boulder. Dig into farm-to-table comfort food such as braised lamb belly tacos. Reservations accepted. 1265 Alpine Ave., Boulder, 303-442-6100. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

SAP SUA $$$

Congress Park / Vietnamese This smart eatery from husband-and-wife duo Ni and Anna Nguyen finds its culinary footing in Vietnamese flavors. Herbaceous offerings like chrysanthemum green salad and culantro-capped tomato toast are favorites of the menu, as are seafood plates like the hamachi collar with a coconut caramel glaze. Reservations accepted. 2550 E. Colfax Ave., 303-736-2303. Dinner

SAPORE PRIME ITALIAN $$$

Littleton / Italian This Italian steak house produces fresh-made pastas and dishes with locally sourced meats. Reservations not accepted. 8361 N. Rampart Range Road, Suite B101, Littleton, 303-862-6668. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

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SEÑOR BEAR $$$$

LoHi / Latin American This charming LoHi spot draws from the vibrant cuisines of Latin America and has excellent tropical cocktails. Reservations accepted. 3301 Tejon St., 720572-5997. Dinner, Brunch

SEOUL MANDOO $$

Aurora / Korean This petite spot serves steamed and fried Korean dumplings that are made from scratch daily. Don’t miss the wang mandu (giant dumplings). Reservations not accepted. 2222 S. Havana St., Suite J, Aurora, 303-953-9590. Lunch, Dinner

SHANAHAN’S STEAKHOUSE $$$$

Hampden South / Steak House Former Broncos coach Mike Shanahan’s steak house serves prime dry-aged beef and fresh seafood. Reservations accepted. 5085 S. Syracuse St., 303-770-7300. Dinner

SHI MIAO DAO YUNNAN RICE NOODLE $$

Aurora / Asian This build-your-own rice noodle soup restaurant specializes in cross-the-bridge noodles from China’s Yunnan province and delicious boba milk teas. Reservations not accepted. 2000 S. Havana St., Aurora, 720-583-2839. Lunch, Dinner

SNARF’S SANDWICHES $

Capitol Hill / American Since opening in 1996 in Boulder, Snarf’s Sandwiches has been serving up hot, toasted made-to-order sandwiches on their signature bread. Multiple locations including one in DIA. Reservations not accepted. 1003 E. 11th Ave., 303-832-9999. Lunch, Dinner

SNARFBURGER $

Sloan’s Lake / American This spinoff of the legendary sandwich shop is a classic joint serving made-to-order burgers, hot dogs, fried bologna sandwiches, french fries, onion rings, frozen custard, and milkshakes. Multiple locations. Reservations not accepted. 2535 Federal Blvd., 720-535-5184. Lunch, Dinner

SNOOZE $

Ballpark / Breakfast Sip a mimosa in this hip breakfast eatery’s chic orange booths. Choose between pineapple upside-down pancakes and corned beef hash. Multiple locations. Reservations not accepted. 2262 Larimer St., 303-2970700. Breakfast, Lunch

SPUNTINO $$$$

Highland / Italian Enjoy the eclectic and locally sourced menu at this Italian-inspired, husbandand-wife-owned spot. Go for any of the dishes with Southern Indian influences—a product of chef Cindhura Reddy’s heritage—like malai kofta gnocchi. Don’t miss the house-made gelatos for dessert. Reservations accepted. 2639 W. 32nd Ave., 303-433-0949. Dinner

SPUTNIK $

Baker / Pub This bar features a variety of classic sandwiches as well as vegan-friendly eats such as a jackfruit Cubano. Reservations not accepted. 3 S. Broadway, 720-570-4503. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

STANLEY MARKETPLACE $$

Aurora / International Formerly the Stanley Aviation building, this site is now home to a sprawling, food-centric marketplace. Stop by and check out the offerings from Annette, Stanley Beer Hall, Sweet Cow Ice Cream, Comida, Logan House Coffee, Miette et Chocolat, and many more. 2501 Dallas St., Aurora, 720-4852234. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

STELLA’S CUCINA $$$$

Boulder / Italian This upscale Italian restaurant— which also serves as a speakeasy or, at times, a dancy lounge bar—hosts a refined menu of pastas, risottos, and protein-driven entrées. Reservations accepted. 1123 Walnut St., Boulder, 303-943-1000. Dinner, Brunch

STEVE’S SNAPPIN’ DOGS $ City Park / American Delicious hot dogs with all the fixins and perfectly crisp french fries are served at this happy-to-please stand. Get your vitamins in with a side of fried green beans. Reservations not accepted. 3525 E. Colfax Ave., 303-333-7627. Lunch, Dinner

STOIC & GENUINE $$$

LoDo / Seafood Impeccably fresh seafood preparations are the star of this iconic oyster house. Sip on craft cocktails as you nosh on Alaskan king crab legs. Reservations accepted. 1701 Wynkoop St., 303-640-3474. Lunch, Dinner

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STONE CELLAR BISTRO $$$

Arvada / Contemporary Visit this farm-to-table spot in Olde Town Arvada for beautifully presented dishes made with local produce by chefs Jordan Alley and Brandon Kerr. Don’t miss the foie gras parfait or the hot honey fried chicken. Reservations accepted. 7605 Grandview Ave., Arvada, 720-630-7908. Dinner

SULLIVAN SCRAP KITCHEN $$

City Park West / Seasonal Chef-owner Terence Rogers uses sustainably sourced ingredients and leftover or unused food items from his catering company, TBD Foods, to produce light and fresh fare at this casual cafe. Reservations accepted. 1740 E. 17th Ave., 720-242-6292. Dinner, Brunch

SUNDAY VINYL $$$

LoDo / European This Union Station restaurant offers warm hospitality, exquisite cuisine, and an extensive wine list, all to the soundtrack of a vinyl-only playlist. Order the duck-liverstuffed gougè res (French cheese puffs) and something from the indulgent selection of sweet treats. Reservations accepted. 1803 16th St., 720-738-1803. Dinner

SUNFLOWER ASIAN CAFE $$

Littleton / Chinese Upon arriving at this familyowned eatery, ask for the traditional Chinese menu, which features eastern Chinese Huaiyang dishes and sizzling Sichuan specialties. Reservations not accepted. 91 W. Mineral Ave., Suite 100, Littleton, 303-798-0700. Lunch, Dinner

SUSHI-RAMA $$

RiNo / Sushi This sushi joint features a fun, conveyor-belt-style dining experience. Try creative offerings like the CLT roll, soft shell crab tempura, lettuce, and tomato with garlic mayo on top. Multiple locations. Reservations not accepted. 2615 Larimer St., 720-476-4643.

Lunch, Dinner

TABLE 6 $$$$

Speer / American This space’s warm and cozy atmosphere extends to the American bistro cuisine, which is elevated by haute foodie touches. Don’t miss the French onion tots. Reservations accepted. 609 Corona St., 303-831-8800. Dinner

TACOS TEQUILA WHISKEY $

City Park / Mexican Often referred to as Pinche Tacos, this taqueria offers a variety of Mexican specialties. Try the queso a la plancha taco made with griddled Cotija cheese, smashed avocado, and roasted tomatillo salsa. Multiple locations. Reservations not accepted. 1514 York St., 720-475-1337. Lunch, Dinner

TAMAYO $$$

LoDo / Mexican This spot’s modern menu is derived from the flavors and ingredients of chef-owner Richard Sandoval’s native Mexico. Check out the rooftop lounge and the selection of more than 100 tequilas. Reservations accepted. 1400 Larimer St., 720-946-1433.

Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

SEP

Spotlight: Inside Collections Care and Conservation

Clyfford Still Museum

Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Discover how the Clyfford Still Museum cares for its artworks and preserves them for future generations through display, research, and art conservation in a new exhibition at the Museum. Explore neverbefore-seen artworks, behind-the-scenes views, and conservation-themed spotlights throughout the show.

Information and tickets at clyffordstillmuseum.org/exhibitions

OCT 20

Denver Scholarship Foundation 2023

Homecoming Gala & After Party

Sheraton Denver Downtown | 6 p.m.

Join the Denver community in honoring the accomplishments of Denver high school students, college scholars, and alumni! Come for the entire event or the after party! Proceeds will help make it possible for thousands of Denver Public Schools graduates to complete a college degree. Information and tickets at denverscholarship.org/gala.

TEALEE’S TEAHOUSE AND BOOKSTORE $$

Five Points / International Head to this charming teahouse-bookstore-market for loose-leaf and specialty teas and all-day fare like soups, salads, sandwiches, and freshly baked pastries. High tea service is also available. Reservations accepted. 611 22nd St., 303-593-2013. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

TEMAKI DEN $$

RiNo / Japanese Chef Kenta Kamo and Sushi Den’s Toshi Kizaki team up to bring delectable temaki (hand rolls), aburi (flame-seared) nigiri, and craft beverages to this restaurant inside the Source Hotel in RiNo. Reservations accepted. 3330 Brighton Blvd., Suite 110, 225-405-0811. Dinner

TEOCALLI COCINA $$

Arvada / Mexican This industrial-meets-tropical Mexican restaurant offers elevated entrées like charred beef short rib with grilled bone marrow, pork shank pibil, and hamachi ceviche. Also try the Lafayette location. Reservations accepted. 5770 Olde Wadsworth Blvd., Arvada, 303-9233170. Lunch, Dinner

TESSA DELICATESSEN $

Montclair / Deli This modern all-day eatery from Vince Howard, formerly of Del Rey Deli in Los Angeles, serves hot and cold sandwiches and salads to the Montclair neighborhood. Reservations not accepted. 5724 E. Colfax Ave., 720-746-9138. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

NOV 3–12

46th Denver Film Festival

Fall in love with film at the 46th Denver Film Festival, the largest film festival in the Rocky Mountain region, showcasing a diverse array of captivating films from around the world. With red-carpet premieres, cinematic gems, thoughtprovoking documentaries, and the top-rated films of the year, this carefully curated program is a celebration of storytelling and creativity. Don’t miss the greatest event of the year!

Information and tickets at denverfilmfestival.eventive.org.

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THAI POT CAFE $

Virginia Village / Asian Try a variety of curries, noodle bowls, soups, salads, and coconutinfused desserts at this cozy Thai restaurant in Virginia Village. Reservations not accepted. 1350 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite 191, 303-6396200. Lunch, Dinner

TOCABE, AN AMERICAN INDIAN EATERY $

Berkeley / American Feast on Indigenous fare such as fry bread tacos made with ingredients sourced from Native producers at this fastcasual spot. The company also has an online marketplace for Native-produced bison and pantry goods and donates prepared meals to tribal communities in need. Reservations not accepted. 3536 W. 44th Ave., 720-524-8282.

Lunch, Dinner

TOFU HOUSE 1962 $$

Aurora / Korean This spot specializes in soups and stews, but also offers a variety of other options. Reservations accepted. 2353 S. Havana St., Suite D1, Aurora, 303-751-2840. Lunch, Dinner

TOFU STORY $$

Aurora / Korean House-made tofu is the main draw at this airy Korean eatery from chefrestaurateur J.W. Lee. Order the spicy seafood soondubu stew featuring silken tofu with the individual-size, pressure-cooked rice that’s prepared tableside. Reservations not accepted. 2060 S. Havana St., Aurora, 303-954-9372.

Lunch, Dinner

TRIBUTARY FOOD HALL & DRINKERY $$

Golden / International Golden’s first food hall boasts eight different culinary options, including Generous Coffee, Opa Cocina!, Barefoot BBQ, Hello Poke, and Vito’s Pizzas & Pasta. 701 12th St., Golden, 303-856-7225. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

THE TRUFFLE TABLE $$

LoHi / Seasonal As an offshoot of the Truffle Cheese Shop, it’s no surprise that a variety of cheese boards and fromage-focused small plates decorate the seasonal menu. Reservations not accepted. 2556 15th St., 303-455-9463. Dinner

TUPELO HONEY SOUTHERN KITCHEN & BAR $$$

LoDo / Southern Nosh on reimagined versions of down-home dishes, such as the signature honey-dusted fried chicken. Reservations accepted. 1650 Wewatta St., 720-274-0650. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

UCHI DENVER $$$$

Curtis Park / Japanese This bustling eatery from James Beard Award–winning chef Tyson Cole delivers artful and inventive Japanese small plates and sushi made with some of the freshest fish in town. Visit for the daily happy hour, when nigiri and temaki are less than $10. Reservations accepted. 2500 Lawrence St., 303-444-1922. Dinner

ULTREIA $$$

LoDo / Spanish James Beard Award–winning chef Jennifer Jasinski brings Iberian fare to Union Station. Try the cured trout. Reservations accepted. 1701 Wynkoop St., Suite 125, 303-5341970. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

UNCLE $$

Speer / Asian This reliable Pan Asian noodle house from chef-owner Tommy Lee has a revolving menu of steamed buns, small plates, rice and curry bowls, and ramen. Order the spicy dan dan noodles for a soupless slurping experience. Also try the Highland location. Reservations not accepted. 95 S. Pennsylvania St., 720-638-1859. Dinner

THE UNIVERSAL $

Sunnyside / American This breakfast and lunch nook is an industrial farmhouse-chic spot for breakfast foods, including tasty eggs Benedict and biscuits and gravy. Reservations not accepted. 2911 W. 38th Ave., 303-955-0815.

Breakfast, Lunch

UNRAVEL COFFEE $

Virginia Village / Cafe House-roasted beans and high-tech tools lead to stellar espresso drinks at this Virginia Village coffeeshop. You can also enjoy nourishing toasts, salads, and smoothies from inside the comfortably modern space. Try the fig toast. Reservations not accepted. 1441 S. Holly St., 303-537-7773. Breakfast, Lunch

URBAN FARMER $$$

LoDo / Seasonal This steak house in the Oxford Hotel features whole-animal butchery and an excellent charcuterie program. Reservations accepted. 1659 Wazee St., 303-262-6070. Dinner, Brunch

URBAN VILLAGE GRILL $$$

Lone Tree / Indian Chef Charles Mani serves classic and contemporary dishes from regions across India at this eatery inside Park Meadows Mall. Order the chef’s tasting menu, a multicourse feast featuring Urban cauliflower, butter chicken, and other popular dishes. Reservations accepted. 8505 Park Meadows Center Drive, Suite 2184A, Lone Tree, 720-536-8565. Lunch, Dinner

US THAI CAFE $

Edgewater / Thai Classic, fresh ingredients, spicy dishes, and a chef straight from Thailand make for an authentic, if mouth-tingling, dining experience. Try the green curry. Reservations accepted. 5228 W. 25th Ave., Edgewater, 303-233-3345. Lunch, Dinner

VIEWHOUSE $$

Ballpark / American This is your place to catch the game and enjoy a variety of bar bites, from burgers and tacos to steak. Watch your favorite team while enjoying a draft beer and a plate of nachos. Multiple locations. Reservations accepted. 2015 Market St., 720-878-2015. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

VITAL ROOT $$

Berkeley / American Justin Cucci’s fourth eatery focuses on quick, healthy food. Grab a seat in the airy space and nosh on creative, wholesome fare such as cashew “queso” dip or a sunflower risotto. Reservations not accepted. 3915 Tennyson St., 303-474-4131. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

VOGHERA RISTORANTE & APERICENA $$$

Berkeley / Italian Enjoy Italian-style tapas such as beef tartare, Burrata, and pancetta-wrapped scallops at this rustic-chic Berkeley outpost. Reservations not accepted. 3963 Tennyson St., 303-455-9111. Dinner, Brunch

THE WALNUT ROOM $

RiNo / American At this laid-back live-music venue, the drink of choice is PBR. Try the Mile High pizza made kitchen-sink-style with more than 10 toppings. Reservations not accepted. 3131 Walnut St., 303-295-1868. Lunch, Dinner

WATER GRILL $$$$

LoDo / Seafood Fresh seafood is flown in daily to this chic restaurant specializing in shellfish and raw bar offerings. Reservations accepted. 1691 Market St., 303-727-5711. Dinner

WATERCOURSE FOODS $$

Uptown / American This vegetarian icon has been serving wholesome food since 1998. The zesty soups, salads, and wraps are healthy and delicious. Reservations accepted. 837 E. 17th Ave., 303-8327313. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

WEATHERVANE CAFE $ City Park West / American Enjoy a small but sumptuous menu of breakfast items, sandwiches, and salads at this cozy Uptown cafe. Reservations not accepted. 1725 E. 17th Ave. Breakfast, Lunch

WELLNESS SUSHI $$

Congress Park / Japanese Vegan sushi stars at this fast-casual joint by husband-and-wife duo Steven and Phoebe Lee. Don’t miss hot options like the soupless ramen. Reservations not accepted. 2504 E. Colfax Ave., 720-306-4989.

Lunch, Dinner

WEST SALOON & KITCHEN $$$

Downtown / American This modern eatery in a historic space downtown serves food and drink inspired by the American West. Reservations accepted. 501 16th Street Mall, 303-825-3690.

Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

WHISKEY TANGO FOXTROT $$ Ballpark / American This watering hole in Ballpark offers a vintage-inspired atmosphere. Wash down your burger or fried chicken with one of the 95 available whiskeys. Reservations not accepted. 2907 Huron St., 303-226-1540.

Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

WHITE PIE $$$

City Park West / Pizza This neighborhood joint has an excellent selection of New Haven–style pizzas and house-made pastas. Pair the Porky Porkorino, topped with soppressata, mozzarella, pickled chiles, and hot honey, with frosé. Reservations not accepted. 1702 Humboldt St., 303-862-5323.

Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

WHITTIER CAFE $

Whittier / Cafe This espresso bar, which supports social-justice-related causes, serves coffee, beer, and wine sourced from various African nations and a small menu of pastries, breakfast burritos, panini, and more. Reservations not accepted. 1710 E. 25th Ave., 720-550-7440. Breakfast, Lunch

WILD TACO $

Capitol Hill / Mexican Casual, modern Mexicaninspired bites from chef Javier Sanchez (formerly of Tamayo and Osaka Ramen) are the draw at Capitol Hill’s Wild Taco. Reservations not accepted. 215 E. Seventh Ave., 303-856-7145.

Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

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WINDFALL BREWING CO. $$

Westminster / American This spot serves comforting pub grub with a stellar lineup of craft suds in Orchard Town Center. Try one of the burgers first, then head straight for the pinball machines. Reservations not accepted. 14694 Orchard Parkway, Westminster, 720-5315822. Lunch, Dinner

WOODEN SPOON CAFE & BAKERY $

Highland / American Start your morning off right with hot drinks, fresh baked goods, and pastries. Or, stop in for a hearty sandwich at lunchtime. To satisfy your sweet tooth, pick up a slice of carrot cake. Reservations not accepted. 2418 W. 32nd Ave., 303-999-0327. Breakfast, Lunch

WORK & CLASS $$$

RiNo / American This elevated meat-and-three concept from chef Dana Rodriguez offers a delicious hybrid of American and Latin cuisine in raucous, repurposed-shipping-container digs. Our picks: the rotisserie chicken, chickpea croquettes, and the roasted Colorado lamb. Reservations not accepted. 2500 Larimer St., 303-292-0700. Dinner

XICAMITI LA TAQUERÍA $$

Golden / Mexican This long-standing joint serves cooked-to-order burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and alambres (skillet dishes) made with recipes drawing from Walter Meza’s childhood in Mexico. Reservations not accepted. 715 Washington Ave., Golden, 303-215-3436. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

YACHT CLUB $

Cole / American Enjoy classic and creative cocktails at this loungelike bar alongside an array of snacks. Reservations not accepted. 3701 N. Williams St., 720-443-1135. Dinner

YAHYA’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL & PASTRIES $$

City Park West / Mediterranean This family-run restaurant serves silky hummus, a variety of excellent grilled kebabs, and from-scratch sweets. Try the beef koobideh. Reservations accepted. 2207 E. Colfax Ave., 720-532-8746. Lunch, Dinner

YAZOO BARBEQUE COMPANY $

Five Points / Barbecue This unpretentious counter-service barbecue joint offers a Deep South menu, featuring slow-smoked pork ribs and brisket. Dig in at the outdoor picnic tables. Reservations not accepted. 2150 Broadway, 303-296-3334. Lunch, Dinner

YUMCHA $$

LoDo / Asian From restaurateur Lon Symensma of ChoLon and Bistro LeRoux comes a dim sum house and noodle bar serving creative Asianinspired bites. Reservations accepted. 1520 16th Street Mall, 720-638-8179. Lunch, Dinner

ZEPPELIN STATION $$

RiNo / International This industrial-chic food hall in RiNo is home to seven globally inspired food and drink vendors, including Procession Coffee, Purisma, and Gyros King. 3501 Wazee St., 720-862-0008. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

ZOCALITO LATIN BISTRO $$$

Downtown / Mexican Formerly located in Aspen, chef/owner Michael Beary’s upscale Oaxacan eatery found a home in the heart of Denver. Try the pork tenderloin with red mole sauce. Reservations accepted. 999 18th St., Suite 107, 720-923-5965. Dinner

ZOE MA MA $

LoDo / Chinese This cozy counter-service spot offers Chinese home-style cooking. Order the Sichuan braised beef noodle soup. Also try the Boulder location. Reservations not accepted. 1625 Wynkoop St., 303-545-6262. Lunch, Dinner

ZOMO $$

Englewood / Asian Owners Alysia Davey and Ryan Anderson serve family recipes inspired by their Vietnamese and Chinese roots. Reservations accepted. 3457 S. Broadway, Englewood, 720-739-8882. Lunch, Dinner

ZORBA’S $$ Congress Park / Greek Zorba’s has served American and Greek fare—burgers, salads, sandwiches, and classic breakfast dishes—in Congress Park since 1979. Reservations not accepted. 2626 E. 12th Ave., 303-321-0091. Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

 These listings are in no way related to advertising in 5280. If you find that a restaurant differs significantly from the information in its listing or your favorite restaurant is missing from the Dining Guide, please let us know. Write us at 5280 Publishing, Inc., 1675 Larimer St., Suite 675, Denver, CO 80202 or dining@5280.com.

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appreciated it.” Now a major celebrity with a successful television and movie career, Lopez, who lives in LA, sold out two Wednesday

night shows in 2010, covered his own expenses, and refused to take a penny.

“There’s not a lot of people I would do that for in this business,” Lopez says. “This is the business of laughter, but there’s a lot of backbiting and a lot of deception. She was one of the few people that was not that.” Lopez says if Curtis runs into trouble again, he will help her out “with no second thought.”

Curtis has paid that favor forward in many ways, but especially by cultivating

local comedic talent. She puts three area comedians on stage before headliners, who perform on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The locals typically come up through New Talent Night at the downtown location, which serves as an opportunity for emerging comics to hone their acts and stage presences. The rookies get two minutes, but even the most awkward acts often walk offstage to applause from the supportive audiences. Longer sets—three, four, or five minutes— convey that a comedian is moving up through the ranks. “Because she uses local talent, nurturing local talent is really important to her,” says Elliot Woolsey, coordinator of New Talent Night, who emerged from the program himself. “New Talent Night is sort of the farm system.”

Adam Cayton-Holland, a Denver comedian and writer, and a veteran of New Talent Night, says while other club owners act like “the kings of their tiny kingdoms,” Curtis doesn’t have that attitude. “I think there’s just a lot less of an ego there. She’s just easier to deal with and more pleasant than a lot of comedy club owners, because she gets it.”

Woolsey, who critiques new comedians after their Tuesday night performances, alerts Curtis to stand-ups he believes she should know about. But his opinion isn’t the only one Curtis solicits—she also checks in with the servers, managers, bartenders, and other comics. “The servers have a big say in your success because they are the people who see every show, and they are the people that report back to Wende,” says Blue, a nationally touring headliner who started at New Talent Night in 2002 and won NBC’s Last Comic Standing four years later. “I really attribute a lot of my early success to the staff there for presenting everything to Wende.”

Of course, with a reputation like Comedy Works’, the clubs draw comics from all over the country. To welcome that talent, Curtis provides two condos—one downtown and one near the Greenwood Village club—where performers can crash for free when they’re in town. Even comedians who’d normally prefer a hotel room say they enjoy the spaces Curtis offers, which she has decorated in a vibrant, eclectic style. “I am going to a hotel with the exception of Comedy Works, because it’s like being on the Monkees set,” Gould says. “And I’m proud to say that I am in their Mullet Hall of Fame.”

Yes, the downtown condo has a Mullet Hall of Fame and is decorated with paintings of balloon animals, a faux zebra rug, and a Bozo the Clown punching bag. A talking Rodney Dangerfield doll sits on a counter next to a lava lamp. An entire wall is filled with paintings and other artwork done by

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LOCATED IN THE HEART OF DENVER, The Regular brings an elegant and approachable concept to the city. Chef Brian De Souza and Syd Younggeen arrive on the scene with an innovative a la carte menu with influences from their experiences throughout the world. The menu is complimented by a refreshing craft cocktail selection and impressive wine list curated by our Beverage Director, Bruce Martin Polack. We invite you to spend an evening with us and become our REGULAR

visiting comedians. The dining room table is bright metallic red with turquoise accents, and the chairs are yellow, orange, blue, and purple. A framed poster of the cover of a Thor comic book hangs above a toilet. The shower curtain proclaims: “Please Don’t Do Coke In The Bathroom.”

LAUGHTER EMANATING from Comedy Works has been heard far beyond Denver over the years: Madigan, Blue, Ben Roy, and the Sklar Brothers all have recorded live albums there. So have John Novosad and Greg Giraldo. Dave Attel’s 2003 album, Skanks for the Memories, which was recorded at the downtown club, has become iconic for its clever mix of frat-boy humor and sophisticated commentary on politics and religion. Comics like to record at Comedy Works partly because they like Curtis but also because its audiences seem to laugh easily, something all stand-ups want on their albums. “They’re just great audiences,” Curtis says. “We’ve honed them. We’ve given them good stuff and conditioned them right.”

Regan has his own theory about why Comedy Works patrons are so receptive. “I always wondered if [Curtis] had this magic

power where she would release laughing gas into the club,” he says with a laugh. “Like maybe she’s in the back of the room behind the curtain like Oz, and she can sense if a crowd isn’t quite where it needs to be. She just opens up these valves and gets some laughing gas in the room to make sure every show goes well.”

All of which is part of what made things so difficult in March 2020 when the laughter stopped. As COVID-19 restrictions spread, it became clear it would be impossible to socially distance in a room where the audience sits elbow to elbow. Curtis was forced to shut down both clubs. Because the Greenwood Village club was significantly larger and allowed for better spacing between patrons, it briefly reopened in late July of 2020, but continued concerns about the spread of the virus prompted its closure almost four months later. “It was devastating in so many ways,” Curtis says. “Honestly, I thought about committing suicide—and I mean business suicide—multiple times. I was so frustrated and scared about losing [the clubs]. I was mad, and I walked around mad for a very long time.” Her anger wasn’t directed at anyone in particular, of course, and then she’d have

moments when she’d feel bad for being so upset. “I would obviously feel horrible,” she says, “because people have lost people, and that’s awful.”

With no audiences, Comedy Works, like so many other small businesses, quickly fell into a financial hole. Curtis received funds through the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant, the Paycheck Protection Program, and an Employee Retention Credit loan. “That money,” Curtis says, “made all the difference.”

Having survived one of the most difficult challenges in her time as owner, Curtis isn't ready to give up the business even though she says she’s broken her body working 70 hours a week, every week, for years. “[Doctors] told me about seven or eight years ago, Your battery is out,” she says. “My adrenals are shot.”

She has a plan, five to seven years out, to groom someone to take her place. Curtis may turn over the reins, but she is unequivocal about one thing: She will never sell Comedy Works. “I’d have to leave the country,” she says. “I would have to. I couldn’t watch what somebody would do to it.” m

L. Wayne Hicks is a freelance writer in Denver. Email feedback to letters@5280.com.

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THE OVERSIMPLIFIED GUIDE TO:

Telling A Scary Story

A paranormal performance requires more than a campfire to gather ’round. These tips from Dave Hooley and Wynn Montgomery, two storytellers with Spellbinders, a Carbondale nonprofit dedicated to keeping the oral tradition alive, will have your audience screaming loud enough to wake the dead this scary season. —NICHOLAS

To keep your listeners engaged, choose a spooky spiel (americanfolklore.net has plenty) that’s five to seven minutes long. Telling it in first person will give it more credibility.

Memorizing each line will create a stilted performance. Instead, only practice the beginning and end and have a clear idea of how you’ll get from one to the other. Repeating key words or phrases—such as footsteps coming ever closer—will produce a hypnotic effect.

Waiting until it’s dark won’t just set the mood; it will limit distractions and help your audience’s imagination run wild.

Increase the tension by tweaking the setting so the tale takes place nearby. “If it’s a Colorado story,” Hooley says, “then the audience is thinking, I should know something about this You’ve brought the ‘facts’ a little closer to home.”

End

a

scare, where you lunge at the audience or scream suddenly, or both, usually while revealing that someone (or something) was inside the house the whole time!

with

jump

HUNT