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Cover Design By Zk Bradley Sandro Botticelli, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons PUBLISHER Fran Zankowski

EDITORIAL

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Bryan Grossman MANAGING EDITOR Helen Lewis COPY EDITOR Mary Jo Meade BEST OF WRITERS Katherine Atherton, Katherine Beard, Michael Braithwaite, Jon Huang, Zeke Lloyd, Sarah McMahon, MB Partlow, Nick Raven, Aj Silva, Charley Sutherland PHOTOGRAPHERS Sean Cayton, Allison Daniell (Stellar Propeller Studio), Casey Bradley Gent

SALES

AD DIRECTOR Teri Homick ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Monty Hatch, Sean Cassady, David Jeffrey

ART AND PRODUCTION

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Zk Bradley, Rowdy Tompkins

OPERATIONS

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Lanny Adams DIGITAL/SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST Sean Cassady EVENTS, MARKETING & DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR Tracie Woods

Citizen-Powered Media Board PRESIDENT Ahriana Platten SECRETARY Ralph Routon EX OFFICIO John Weiss

BEST OF 2023

W

ELL FOLKS, WE DID IT...

The Independent is celebrating its 30th Best Of with this issue.

Thirty years — that’s a third of a lifetime, or a full lifetime if you’re a lowland tapir.

We’ve survived seven and a half leap years.

Spanned five presidents, if you’re counting.

What in the world was going on in 1993, you ask?

Come, peer with me into my googlemachine...

Look! Rudy Giuliani is swearing in as New York City’s first Republican mayor since 1973 (that guy doesn’t age a bit; his hair color’s the same in 2023)...

The national minimum wage is $4.25, but it’s cool — a jar of mayo is a buck. We may even have enough left over to go see that new dinosaur flick, Jurassic Park. If we don’t, we’ll head home, eat Hot Pockets and watch Seinfeld instead...

Ah, the Golden Age. Back in the ’90s, and even today, it’s said that pearl is symbolic of a three-decade relationship,

like the one between a newspaper and its readers.

To me, pearls are perfectly appropriate for this occasion. Science tells us that, if you introduce a little grit, add some conchiolin, aragonite and time, a beautiful, valuable and rare gift will present itself.

Too subtle?

Us. We’re the gift. The Indy is the pearl. We’re pretty great.

But we’re also humble! We’re not here to blather on about us. Sure, a single pearl is pretty. But when you take the finest out there and combine them — now you’re talking.

This city is filled with pearls, and we’re honored to string them together for you, reader, in this, our 30th edition of the Best Of Colorado Springs.

We know time is powerful and precious. I won’t waste any more of yours. Treasure awaits...

— Bryan Grossman Executive Editor

TABLE OF CONTENTS FOOD.................................................................................... 8 Bakery................................................................................... 8 Barbecue............................................................................ 8 Breakfast.............................................................................9 Brunch.................................................................................. 8 Burger................................................................................. 10 Cajun.................................................................................... 10 Caribbean......................................................................... 10 Caterer.................................................................................12 Cheap Eats........................................................................11 Chef.......................................................................................21 Chinese.............................................................................. 10 Chocolatier/Confections..........................................11 Cooking Class................................................................25 Dessert Menu.................................................................12 Diner.......................................................................................9 Dog-Friendly Restaurant.......................................14 Donuts.................................................................................. 8 Fine Dining......................................................................25 Food Truck.......................................................................24 French..................................................................................14 Frozen Treat.....................................................................13 German...............................................................................15 Gluten-Free-Friendly................................................19 Green Chile.........................................................................9 Happy Hour Menu.......................................................15 Indian...................................................................................17 Irish........................................................................................18 Italian....................................................................................15 Japanese/Sushi.............................................................18 Korean.................................................................................15 Late-Night Dining.......................................................19 Latin American..............................................................16 Local/Regional Chain................................................. 8 Lunch..................................................................................20 Mediterranean/Middle Eastern.........................16 Mexican..............................................................................15 Natural Food Store.....................................................21 Neighborhood Restaurant-Downtown......20 Neighborhood Restaurant-East......................25 Neighborhood Restaurant-North...................24 Neighborhood Restaurant-South..................22 Neighborhood Restaurant-West....................24 New Restaurant (since 7.1.22).............................23 Overall Restaurant.....................................................22

Patio......................................................................................13 Pizza......................................................................................17 Restaurant for Tourists............................................19 Sandwich..........................................................................20 Seafood...............................................................................16 Steak.....................................................................................18 Tacos.....................................................................................16 Thai........................................................................................16 Vegetarian/Vegan.......................................................19 Vietnamese......................................................................13 Wings..................................................................................20 DRINK................................................................................ 26 Brewery/Brewpub......................................................26 Cider House....................................................................27 Coffee Roaster...............................................................31 Craft Cocktail Menu..................................................26 Distillery........................................................................... 30 Drive-Thru Coffee.......................................................27 Local Coffee Shop......................................................28 Locally Produced Beer............................................31 Margarita..........................................................................27 Smoothie/Juice Bar..................................................28 Store for Craft Beer...................................................28 Store for Spirits.............................................................28 Store for Wine...............................................................28 Tap Room (Beers).......................................................27 Tasting Room (Spirits)............................................ 30 Wine Bar............................................................................31 NIGHTLIFE..................................................................... 33 Adult Night Club.........................................................35 Casino.................................................................................33 Dive Bar.............................................................................33 Happy Hour.....................................................................37 Music Venue...................................................................37 Neighborhood Bar-Downtown........................36 Neighborhood Bar-East.........................................36 Neighborhood Bar-North.....................................33 Neighborhood Bar-South.....................................36 Neighborhood Bar-West...................................... 34 New Bar/Brewery (since 7.1.22)........................ 34 Overall Bar.......................................................................35 Place for Comedy.......................................................37 Sports Bar........................................................................36

Upscale Bar.....................................................................35 ARTS, NEIGHBORHOOD & COMMUNITY.. 38 Art Gallery........................................................................38 Artist...................................................................................40 Catering Company...................................................44 Dance Company..........................................................41 Escape Room............................................................... 43 Food and/or Drink Event.......................................39 Hotel.................................................................................... 43 Indoor Family Fun.....................................................44 Local Band...................................................................... 45 Museum............................................................................39 Outdoor Family Fun................................................. 45 Place for Adrenaline Junkies.............................40 Running Club...............................................................44 Special Event Venue................................................44 Theater Company.......................................................38 Tourist Attraction........................................................39 Wedding Venue............................................................41 SHOPPING & SERVICES.....................................47 Adult Store...................................................................... 54 Antique Store................................................................ 54 Auto Repair Shop....................................................... 49 Auto/Truck New...........................................................52 Auto/Truck Used.........................................................53 Bike Shop..........................................................................51 Bookstore........................................................................ 54 Child Day Care............................................................. 48 Clothing Boutique.................................................... 48 Comic Shop....................................................................53 Eclectic Shop................................................................ 49 Florist....................................................................................51 Fur Baby Services.......................................................52 Grocery Store.................................................................47 Jewelry Store................................................................ 48 Motorcycle/Motorsports Dealer...................... 54 Outdoor Outfitter.......................................................53 Piercing Shop............................................................... 49 Place to Buy Skis/Snowboards.........................53 Store for Fashion Accessories........................... 48 Store for Music...............................................................51 Tattoo Shop.....................................................................47 Thrift Store........................................................................51

Vape Shop....................................................................... 54 Veterinary Clinic............................................................51 HOME & GARDEN.................................................... 56 Deck Builder................................................................. 60 Electrical Contractor................................................57 Flooring Company.....................................................57 Garden Supply/Nursery.........................................58 Hardware Store.............................................................61 HVAC Company...........................................................57 Interior Design and Décor...................................56 Kitchens and Bathrooms......................................58 Painting Contractor................................................. 60 Remodeling Contractor........................................ 60 Roofing Company......................................................57 Store for Houseplants...............................................61 Sustainable/Environmental Home Improvement Co...................................................56 Used Furniture..............................................................59 Windows and Doors................................................ 60 HEALTH & WELLNESS......................................... 62 Barbershop.....................................................................62 Chiropractor.................................................................. 64 Day Spa..............................................................................62 Dental Practice............................................................63 Doctor (M.D./D.O.)......................................................62 Hair Salon.........................................................................65 In-Home Care Provider..........................................62 Medical Spa....................................................................65 Nail Salon..........................................................................65 Place for Eyewear...................................................... 64 Retirement & Assisted Living Community..65 Yoga..................................................................................... 64 CANNABIS.................................................................... 67 Head Shop.......................................................................70 MMJ Dispensary-Downtown.............................67 MMJ Dispensary-East.............................................70 MMJ Dispensary-North......................................... 68 MMJ Dispensary-Pueblo.......................................67 MMJ Dispensary-South..........................................70 MMJ Dispensary-West...........................................70 Place for CBD Products.........................................67 Recreational Marijuana Dispensary............. 68

csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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FOOD BARBECUE

FRONT RANGE BARBEQUE frbbq.com

IF YOU’RE A SUCKER FOR GREAT SOUTHern-style BBQ, then Front Range Barbeque is the place to be! Specializing in house-made Southern-style sauces and sides, owner and head chef Brian Fortinberry has been dishing out ample portions of pulled pork and smoked brisket burnt ends since 2000. “We enjoy creating an atmosphere where people feel comfortable — like they’ve just come to their best friend’s house for a good meal and good time,” says Melissa Landrum, Front Range’s office manager. Come for the food and stay for the weekly live music (every Wednesday and Sunday throughout summer and Wednesdays in winter).

SILVER: RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE AND BAR-B-Q | rudysbbq.com BRONZE: BIRD DOG BBQ birddogbbq.com BAKERY

DONUTS

AMY’S DONUTS amysdonuts.com

WHERE DOUGHY, DEEP-FRIED DONUT DREAMS COME TRUE. WORD LIMITS PREVENT LISTing all the simple pastries and crazy combos concocted by the team at Amy’s. Apple (and sometimes cherry) fritters, a cinnamon twist or a plain cake donut? Check! You want chocolate — you want glaze or frosting?

Topped with sprinkles or nuts or crushed Butterfingers or candy or cookies or bacon? If you can dream it up, Amy’s can probably make it for you.

SILVER: HURTS DONUT COMPANY | wannahurts.com BRONZE: MOCHI THAI’M DONUTS | facebook.com/Mochi.Thaim.donuts

BRUNCH

URBAN EGG

urbaneggeatery.com INSIDER TIP: NO MATTER WHAT ANYONE ORDERS, OR FOR WHAT MEAL, GET A PANcake flight for the table to share. There is absolutely no way you can go wrong with either the traditional (blueberry, buttermilk, strawberry, chocolate chip) or the gourmet flight (Dutch apple, Fred’s Hawaiian, strawberry cheesecake, cinnamon swirl, blueberry streusel). Beyond the pancakes, you can indulge in a straightforward quinoa bowl, decadent eggy delights, a plethora of Benedicts, and fresh juices. And that’s really just a teaser taste of what they have available for breakfast. They offer sandwiches from simple to sublime, salads, many, many coffee drinks, some divine green chili, and a bar for your eye-opening mimosas, Bloody Marys and more. Did we mention the outstanding service?

SILVER: SHUGA’S | shugas.com BRONZE: 503W | 503w.co 8

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | FOOD

BOONZAAIJER’S DUTCH BAKERY dutchpastry.com

SOME SAY NEWER IS ALWAYS BETTER, BUT not Boonzaaijer’s. For all the traditionalists longing for the days of well-sourced ingredients and good service, this Dutch bakery is the place to go. Look no further than the tea cookies or their delectable Bavarian cake filling, made in-house from scratch. From breads to Danishes to pastries to cakes, “Quality, consistent product — that’s our goal,” says Stephen Boonzaaijer, gena mult eral manager and chef. You won’t find a similar variety of baked goods anywhere else in town. Besides, always SILV trying to seek out the avant-garde is exhausting.

omel

SILVER: MARIGOLD CAFE & BAKERY BRO kings marigoldcoloradosprings.com BRONZE: NIGHTINGALE BREAD nightingalebread.com LOCAL/REGIONAL CHAIN

URBAN EGG

urbaneggeatery.com

KING URBAN EGG IS A MULTIPLE GOLDGold w winner, see left.

SILVER: LA CASITA MEXICAN GRILL lacasitamexigrill.com

SILV REST west

BRONZE: FAST FIT FOODS fastfitfoodsco.com

BRO felipe

DINER

KING’S CHEF DINER kingschefdiner.com TH E R E ’ S S O M E TH I N G A BO U T A Thing, a mountain of mouth-watering, freshly griddled, hangover-worthy food piled majestically atop Texas toast and smothered with green chile, that can bring jaded taste buds back from the dead. If you want that same mountain without the toast, and slathered with lashings of sausage-studded rich country gravy, that would be a Grump. The dish, not you.

Everyone who cleans their plate gets a free “Clean Plate Club” sticker, plus bragging rights. The little purple castle is still chugging along on Costilla Street, but the second and more spacious location near Acacia Park allows larger crowds regular access to huge plates of food and that glorious green chile (which, by the way, is vegetarian.) If you’re really hooked on the gravy of the gods, you can purchase jars of the green chile so you can slather it on every meal of the day.

SILVER: GUNTHER TOODY’S DINER gunthertoodys.com BRONZE: WADE’S CAFÉ wades-cafe.com

BREAKFAST

URBAN EGG

urbaneggeatery.com URBAN EGG (URBAN EGG IS a multiple Gold winner, see page 8.)

SILVER: OMELETTE PARLOR omeletteparlorcs.com BRONZE: KING’S CHEF DINER kingschefdiner.com GREEN CHILE

KING’S CHEF DINER kingschefdiner.com

KING CHEF’S DINER IS A MULTIPLE Gold winner, see above.

SILVER: WESTERN OMELETTE RESTAURANT westernomelette.com BRONZE: FELIPE’S 109 felipes109.com FOOD | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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BURGER

SKIRTED HEIFER skirtedheifer.com

WHY EAT A BORING BURGER WHEN YOU CAN SPICE IT UP with a skirt? Not a wearable skirt mind you, but one made with copious amounts of an American favorite: cheddar cheese. And even more than that, the burgers are made with an ingredient you can’t find at your go-to fast food chain: love. “I haven’t seen anyone do a cheese skirt like us,” says manager Holly Adamo. Featuring a boisterous, friendly environment dedicated to providing customers with the tastiest burgers, it’s no wonder that the line to order at both locations is always several people long.

Best German Resta Voted30 years & counting!urant

German & Continental Cuisine

SILVER: GREEN LINE GRILL | greenlinegrill.com BRONZE: BINGO BURGER | bingoburger.com CARIBBEAN

RASTA PASTA realrastapasta.com

THE NAME SAYS IT ALL. THIS BASTION OF ITALIAN-JAMAIcan fusion treats Italian pasta with all the respect it deserves, while glamming it up with Jamaican flavors and flair. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when you cross jerk seasoning with some bomb-ass marinara, this is the place to get your answer.

Need vegetarian or gluten-free? They’ve got you covered. Need to tone down the spice level or amp it up? Just let your server know.

SILVER: HIGH GRADE FOODS JAMAICAN RESTAURANT & BAR highgradefoods.com BRONZE: SPICE ISLAND GRILL (Both locations closed January 2023) CAJUN • Strolling musicians Thursday - Sunday nights • Newly remodeled Ratskeller • Fireplaces in winter, Biergarten in summer • $4.50 Draft beers for Happy Hour

MOMMA PEARL’S CAJUN KITCHEN mommapearls.com

PUT THE SOUTH IN YOUR MOUTH! IF IT CAN BE COATED IN CORNMEAL and deep fried, you will find it at Momma Pearl’s. Everything from hushpuppies to coconut shrimp, from frog legs to okra to boudin balls. All your Cajun favorites in one place, including catfish, jambalaya, red beans and rice, shrimp and grits, and more. If you’re missing the French Quarter, get an order of beignets with a flurry of powdered sugar and let the good times roll.

SILVER: SPRINGS ORLEANS | springsorleans.com BRONZE: LUCHALS | eatluchals.com

Gold – German Restaurant Silver – Dessert Menu Bronze – Patio

Locally owned & operated for over 50 years!

CHINESE

COAL MINE DRAGON – UINTAH STREET coalminedragoncs.com

719-633-2220 • 34 E. Ramona between South Nevada & Tejon

online reservations at edelweissrest.com 10

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | FOOD

YOU KNOW WHAT YOU LIKE, COLORADO SPRINGS. FAST, FRESH AND dependable, all your favorite Chinese-American standards including 61 options on the lunch menu alone. The always-prompt service means your food will reach you fast and satisfy that craving for Hot and Sour Soup, Singapore Rice Noodles, Beef and Broccoli or Moo Goo Gai Pan. They’ve even got a dozen or so vegetarian options for those so inclined.

SILVER: CHINA VILLAGE | facebook.com/Chinavillage1982 BRONZE: SHANGRI-LA RESTAURANT | shangrilacs.com

CHOCOLATIER/CONFECTIONS

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY rmcf.com

QUESTION: WHAT DURANGO-BASED CONFECTIONARY manufacturer has franchises stretching from Panama to the Philippines?

Answer: Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.

And you thought they were just famous for their caramel apples, which range from the simple perfection of a crisp Granny Smith dipped in rich caramel to confectionary fantasies studded with nuts, candy or toffee. The siren song of chocolate will sing to sophisticated fans of luscious truffles or the buttery decadence of caramels and toffees or the simple delectability of something delicious enrobed in quality chocolate.

CHEAP EATS

TACO STAR 719-630-3646

COLORADO SPRINGS. 1 A.M. A WEARY TRAVELER DRIVES THROUGH Downtown searching for something to eat. Even on a Friday, most establishments are closed. Finally, a backlit sign catches their eye, and as they pull into the drive-thru, a sprawling menu stands before them.

“Is this heaven?” they may ask. Not quite; this is Taco Star. With a wide selection of budget-friendly Mexican foods and late-night hours, this cheap eat is perfect for all your midnight cravings.

SILVER: CACAO CHEMISTRY CHOCOLATIER AND PATISSERIE | cacaochemistry.com

SILVER: FELIPE’S 109 | felipes109.com

BRONZE: PATSY’S CANDIES | patsyscandies.com

BRONZE: MONICA’S TACO SHOP | 719-473-1996 (Fillmore), 719-400-2557 (Jamboree); 719-597-7022 (Palmer Park)

BRONZE: DRIFTER’S HAMBURGERS | driftershamburgers.com

FOOD | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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DESSERT MENU

MARIGOLD CAFE & BAKERY marigoldcoloradosprings.com THE DESSERT SELECTION AT MARIGOLD IS almost too big to contemplate. Almost. The problem lies with the execution, which is flawless. You could choose a cake, but would you have chocolate, carrot, strawberry or coconut? Or would you veer into the variety of mousse cakes or cheesecakes? And the pastries — so many sizes and shapes! So flaky and delicate and decadent, all beckoning “Pick me!” The tarts are another party, with the fruit tarts resembling edible works of art, glossy, plump and elegant.

SILVER: EDELWEISS GERMAN RESTAURANT | edelweissrest.com BRONZE: THE FRENCH KITCHEN tfkcc.com 12

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | FOOD

CATERER

PICNIC BASKET pbcatering.com

ON SPECIAL OCCASIONS, STRESS CAN GET THE BETTER OF YOU. BUT WHEN THE Picnic Basket caters, you don’t have to worry about a thing. Not only does the company put a premium on giving their guests an experience they’ll remember for a lifetime, but they also give back to the city — donating 10 percent of annual profits to local nonprofits. As for their food, be sure to check out the tri-tip steak for a Santaemera citrus Maria-style barbecue meal that will satisfy even the gluten-intolerant folks out there. them r bun b SILVER: BUFFALO GALS | pbcatering.com/buffalo-gals-catering (tie) plush

SILVER: FRONT RANGE BARBEQUE | frbbq.com (tie) BRONZE: SALAD OR BUST | saladorbust.com (tie)

SILV

BRONZE: LUCHALS | eatluchals.com (tie)

BRO

HUNGRY?

We got you smothered!

PATIO

PATTY JEWETT BAR & GRILL

THANKS FOR YOUR VOTES! Gold Diner, Gold Green Chile, Bronze Breakfast!

Proudly serving Colorado Springs since 1956!

pjbarandgrill.com

THE LEARNING CURVE TO PLAY GOLF IS HIGH. THANKFULLY, YOU don’t need to be any kind of enthusiast to enjoy the Patty Jewett Bar & Grill’s spacious and relaxing patio. But you do need to be an enthusiast for a wide variety of cuisines. If you’re feeling fishy, be sure to try their fresh ahi poke bowl. Or if you’re on a carnivore’s diet, make some room on your Saturday afternoon for the prime rib dinner. And while you’re there, be sure to take in the views of the third-oldest public golf course west of the Mississippi River.

SILVER: SHUGA’S | shugas.com

COSDINER.COM

131 East Bijou St. • Across the street from Acacia Park kingschefdiner.com • 719-636-5010

BRONZE: EDELWEISS GERMAN RESTAURANT edelweissrest.com FROZEN TREAT

JOSH & JOHN’S joshandjohns.com

WHAT DID YOU AND YOUR BESTIE DO? DID YOU MAKE THE best damn ice cream in Colorado into an ice cream empire? That’s what Josh and John did, and now we all reap the rewards of the best ice cream ever made (no bias here). The rich, smooth confection comes in enough flavors to boggle the mind — the proud Colorado Cookies and Cream celebrating the Centennial State along with Purple Mountain Majesty and Moose on the Loose. The amazingly balanced flavors, whether Yellow Cake or Malted Mazel Toff or Mocha Java Jolt, will put a smile on any face.

SILVER: BJ’S VELVET FREEZ | bjsvelvetfreez.com BRONZE: RIZUTO’S ICE CREAM & SWEET SHOP rizutosicecream.com VIETNAMESE

SAIGON CAFE

N THE coloradosaigoncafe.com n givTHE HERBS. BY ALL THAT IS HOLY, THE HERBS! GLOSSY ing 10 Santaemerald leaves of purple-tinged basil, grassy and bright cilantro, sassy mint, and the citrus kiss of lemongrass give the dishes at Saigon Cafe a fresh and vivid flavor. Find them rolled up inside the chewy, rice paper-swaddled summer rolls, adorning your bun bowl full of chewy, skinny rice noodles, or add them to your taste to a steamy plush brothy bowl of pho.

SILVER: PHO-NOMENAL | 719-597-0277 BRONZE: SAIGON TAPIOCA | saigontapioca.com

Italian-Jamaican Pasta Joint Full Bar, Friendly Service, Fun Atmosphere j Fourteen Years of

ONE LOVE in Downtown Colorado Springs

Thanks for voting us GOLD – Caribbean 405 N. Tejon j 719-481-6888 j realrastapasta.com FOOD | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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We appreciate your votes!

Tuscan Style Signature Sandwiches on Fresh Focaccia Cappuccino, Breakfast, and More!

BOXED LUNCH CATERING 603 S El Paso Street 719-766-2223

www.vivacegourmet.com

DOG-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

LAZY DOG

lazydogrestaurants.com

2016 & 2017 Gold Winner 2018 Silver

Best Thai

Thank you for

your votes!

AS RELAXED AS A DOG COZIED UP IN FRONT OF A WARM FIRE, that’s the atmosphere general manager Phillip Allen strives for at Lazy Dog restaurant. “Our patio is dog-friendly and we love to integrate with the community and support organizations such as the Colorado Springs Humane Society,” says Allen. “We even have a patio menu specifically for dogs and provide free treats.” Featuring a seasonal menu and scratch-made comfort food (including all the sauces, marinades and dressings), Lazy Dog’s small-town hospitality will leave you — and your doggo — cozy, full and happy.

SILVER: PUB DOG | pubdogcolorado.com BRONZE: CERBERUS | cerberusbrewingco.com

NaRai Siam (719) 434-1975 120 E. Cheyenne Mtn Blvd Colorado Springs 80906

FRENCH

LA BAGUETTE DOWNTOWN/WESTSIDE 719-636-5020 | labaguette-co.com

NaRai Thai (719) 531-5175 805 Village Center Drive Colorado Springs, 80919

Like us on Online Ordering Available narai-thai.com 14

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | FOOD

WITH ITS WESTSIDE LOCATION OPERATING SINCE 1984, LA BAGUETTE is the French traditionalist’s dream. The simple but delicious menu is prepared entirely from scratch, and its casual environment is as perfect for the businessperson’s lunch break as it is for the tourist’s breakfast. For artisan hipsters looking for the latest trend, check out their French bread, hand prepared and fresh-baked daily. Or, for the soccer moms, check out their variety of pastries and desserts that would excite any sweets-loving child. Even a gluten-free customer, often dismayed when their friends propose a bakery snack, can enjoy their accumulation of gluten-less options.

SILVER: THE FRENCH KITCHEN | tfkcc.com BRONZE: LA BAGUETTE FRENCH BISTRO – CHESTNUT labaguettefrenchbistro.com

HAPPY HOUR MENU

JAX FISH HOUSE & OYSTER BAR jaxfishhouse.com

PEOPLE ARE R AVING ABOUT THE SERVICE , about the awesome happy hour, about the freshest, high quality seafood around. Notable: The crab cakes having just enough filler to hold them together, with the emphasis on the crab. Love is lavished on the oysters, both char-grilled and raw, and on the sweet, perfectly seared scallops. For residing in a landlocked state, Jax offers a tremendous raw bar and a lively, inventive seasonal menu for entrées.

SILVER: COWBOY STAR RESTAURANT AND BUTCHER SHOP | cowboystarcs.com BRONZE: FUJIYAMA | fujiyamasushi.com (tie) BRONZE: LA BURLA BEE | laburlabee.com (tie)

GERMAN

EDELWEISS GERMAN RESTAURANT edelweissrest.com

“IT IS ALMOST AS IF YOU WOULD TAKE A TRIP TO Germany, without paying god knows how much money,” says co-owner Helga Schnakenberg. Edelweiss brings Germany to you. A family restaurant making authentic German recipes from scratch for over 50 years, Edelweiss delivers on its promise of a true taste of Bavaria. Be sure to try out their array of Schnitzels, made on a traditional press the family brought from overseas.

Or if you’re in a sweet mood, taste the Black Forest torte from their very own in-house bakery. With this kind of food here at home, a plane ticket abroad feels like you’re wasting money.

SILVER: UWE’S GERMAN RESTAURANT uwesgermanrestaurant.com BRONZE: WIMBERGER’S OLD WORLD BAKERY AND DELICATESSEN | wimbergers.com MEXICAN

KOREAN

ITALIAN

CRYSTAL PARK CANTINA

SAN CHANG HOUSE

PARAVICINI’S ITALIAN BISTRO

crystalparkcantina.com

sanchanghouse.com

ESTABLISHED IN 2011, CRYSTAL PARK CANTINA ETTEchecks all the boxes for amazing Mexican food: great enchilantirelydas, perfectly seasoned beans and rice, and (most importantly) lunchwell-crafted margaritas. Using the wonderful homestyle recipes latestof local chef Anne Armour (known as Grandma Anne) and only or thethe freshest ingredients, this tucked-away gem (formerly the te anyMission Bell Inn) is a Manitou staple for those looking for a good riendstime and great food. Join them for happy hour from 2 to 5 p.m. daily, featuring margaritas and cerveza.

IF YOU HAVE YET TO FIND DELICIOUS Korean food in the Springs, then you clearly haven’t been to San Chang House. The family business delivers on its promise of authentic Korean food, with portions large enough you’ll bring leftovers home. Check out their variety of lunch options as well as their classic bibimbap. Can’t handle spice?

Maybe stay away from the aptly named spicy soup.

SILVER: SEÑOR MANUEL | senormanuels.com

SILVER: TONG TONG tong-tong.business.site

BRONZE: VAQUEROS vaquerosmexicanrestaurantthree.com

BRONZE: SEOUL KOREAN BBQ seoulbbqco.com

paravicinis.com

YOU COULD MAKE A QUICK PASTA MEAL with ingredients from the grocery store, but the real thing is so much better. Led by Chef Franco Pisani, Paravicini’s is your place to go for hearty Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients and old-school family recipes. Be sure to check out their Veal Giuseppe, a dish that Guy Fieri once sampled on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Or, if you’re in the mood for a classic dish, try their beef lasagna instead.

SILVER: RED GRAVY | redgravyco.com BRONZE: LA BELLA VITA labellavitaristorante.net FOOD | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

15

LATIN AMERICAN

MONSE’S TASTE OF EL SALVADOR PUPUSERIA monsestasteofelsalvador.online

YOU DON’T HAVE TO KNOW WHAT A SALVADORAN PUPUSA IS to enjoy one at this bright and colorful OCC staple. Masa dough cakes (always gluten-free) are filled with meat, cheese and/or vegetables and griddled to golden perfection. At Monse’s, you can go with traditional fillings (like spicy carnitas, or chicken and potato), and almost every menu item is available with a vegetarian or vegan option. Round out a meal with loaded yucca fries, and maybe a house-made horchata (dairy or non-dairy) or a seasonal agua fresca.

SILVER: PIGLATIN COCINA | piglatincocina.com BRONZE: KARIACOS VENEZUELAN RESTAURANT kariacos.square.site (tie) BRONZE: “LUCY, I’M HOME” THE FLAVOR OF CUBA lucyimhomecolorado.com (tie) THAI

NARAI SIAM narai-thai.com

NAMED AFTER A THAI KING WHO RULED IN THE MID1600s, NaRai aptly delivers authentic Thai food that’ll make you feel like royalty. NaRai Siam’s owner/operator grew up in northern Thailand, and the restaurant offers a culinary experience you’ll find nowhere else in Colorado Springs. Be sure to check out their lobster fried rice made with real lobster tail meat, and try their vast selection of stir-fries and noodles.

SILVER: ELEPHANT THAI | elephantthaicos.com BRONZE: WILD GINGER | 719-634-5025 MEDITERRANEAN/MIDDLE EASTERN

HEART OF JERUSALEM CAFE heartofjerusalemcafe.com

TACOS

DOS SANTOS dossantostacos.com

LOOKING FOR A TRIED-AND-TRUE TACO TUESDAY HANGOUT? FAMIly-owned Dos Santos has you covered. With their dedication to fresh ingredients (even their lime juice is freshly squeezed daily), top-tier service and full bar, Dos Santos turns tacos into an art form. “We put a lot of love into our food, our atmosphere, and customer service. We are all about the vibe and all about the guests,” says Sydney Venegas, general manager. “It’s important that our guests feel welcome and like they are family! We are grateful that people want to come spend their time, energy, and money with us. We have really built a community.” Swing by for Taco Tuesday, Wu-Tang Wednesday, or daily happy hour 3-6 p.m.

SILVER: ZÓCALO | zocalocolorado.com BRONZE: FUZZY’S TACO SHOP | fuzzystacoshop.com 16

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | FOOD

CREAMY AND DREAMY — THE HUMMUS, THE TZATZIki or the Babaganoush? The answer is a happy yes, depending on whether you want the dip to be based on chickpeas, yogurt or eggplant. If you’re a member of the “Food Tastes Better on a Stick” club, you’ll love the lamb, chicken or kufta kabobs. The classic gyro represents, with the juicy blend of beef and lamb freshly shaved off the rotating grill and loaded onto a fluffy pita with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber and hummus. If you’re too full for the flaky baklava after your meal, you can get it to go.

SILVER: JAKE AND TELLY’S GREEK TAVERNA jakeandtellys.com BRONZE: MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ | medcafe-co.com SEAFOOD

JAX FISH HOUSE & OYSTER BAR

HOLD brings everyo jaxfishhouse.com oven-r JAX FISH HOUSE & OYSTER BAR IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER,devote see page 15. try of

SILVER: BONNY & READ SEAFOOD bonnyandreadseafood.com

SILV

BRO BRONZE: THE JUICY SEAFOOD | thejuicyseafoodcs.com mirch

R

SPECIALS! (DINE IN ONLY)

MONDAY MADNESS

50% OFF EVERYTHING 5-6pm!

Celebrating 25 Years!

*excludes some items •

LUNCH / DAILY Chicken Bowls $9 & California Roll with Tempura $12

2023 GOLD – 16 YEARS IN A ROW! Sushi/Japanese SILVER - Lunch BRONZE - Happy Hour Menu & Neigborhood Restaurant Downtown

FINE JAPANESE CUISINE & SUSHI BAR

PIZZA

SLICE420

• 22 S. Tejon · 630-1167 fujiyamasushi.com

Hours Mon-Sat Lunch 11:00-2:30 Dinner Mon-Sun 5:00-9:30 Sunday Dinner Only

•

TUESDAY

20% OFF Appetizers •

LIVE BAND

2nd Friday of every month 6-8pm!

NOW DELIVERING WITH GRUBHUB, DOORDASH & MILLENIUM

slice420.com

WHEN CHRISTIAN AND STEFANY PATRIARCA’S YOUNGEST daughter, Sofia, started having seizures caused by epilepsy and cerebral palsy, they sold their Florida pizza shop and moved to Colorado where they could legally access the life-changing medical marijuana Sofia needed. Now, Slice420 helps other families facing similar struggles gain access to alternative medical resources. “We have a mission behind our name. We work with the community, especially the special needs community, through classes and donations,” says COO Mario Sanchez. “We try and make sure we are doing the right thing every day. We work very hard to ensure everything is fresh and detailed. We have a lot of passion and take a lot of pride in everything we make.”

SILVER: LEON GESSI | leongessipizza.com BRONZE: WHITE PIE PIZZERIA | whitepie.com INDIAN

URBAN TANDOOR INDIAN LOUNGE theurbantandoor.com

HOLDING DOWN THE NORTH END OF ACADEMY, URBAN TANDOOR brings many of the Indian dishes you’ve come to expect plus a few surprises. Not everyone offers Desi Nachos or Goat Curry along with rich Butter Chicken, clayoven-roasted tandoori dishes and comforting rice-based biryanis. The menu also NER,devotes plenty of space to vegetarian options and tandoori-baked breads. The tapestry of seasonings and spices will dance across your palate.

SILVER: LITTLE NEPAL | lnepal.com

BRONZE: MIRCH MASALA KEBAB & CURRY DINING om mirchmasalaa.com FOOD | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

17

consid Hole, Wond curiou Meatlo with i climbi

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JAPANESE/SUSHI

FUJIYAMA

fujiyamasushi.com INSPIRED BY HER TIME IN JAPAN, Minji Suh, owner of Fujiyama in Downtown Colorado Springs, created every dish on her menu using age-old practices infused with a modern twist. Now, having celebrated 25 years this past September, she reflects on her success. “The customers love our taste,” she says. “We have lots of specials and happy hours and lots and lots of longtime customers. We really appreciate all our customers.” With their stylish interior, beautiful patio and expert chefs, it’s no wonder Fujiyama is a favorite for Downtown sushi lovers.

SILVER: DOZO SUSHI dozo-sushi-and-bar.business.site BRONZE: SUSHI ROW sushi-row.com (tie) BRONZE: DOKI DOKI facebook.com/FindDoki (tie) 18

IRISH

STEAK

JACK QUINN’S IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT

THE FAMOUS

thefamoussteakhouse.net

Colora house cious 1 put wh uniqu please

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JACK QUINN’S IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT HAS BEEN serving up authentic Irish eats in Colorado Springs for almost 25 years. The historic building, finished with imported Irish woodwork, hosts a deep list of events including live music and Irish cultural celebrations, and the pub has its own running club. “We want to be more than just a bar and restaurant,” says manager Meredeth Klube. “We want to be a gathering place for people to have fun. We try and be really community-based and I think that makes a huge difference. It makes us different.”

Stop in for a pint and stay for the live music and friendly crowd.

THE CLASSIC STEAKHOUSE ENVIronment gets no more classic than this. Located at the heart of Downtown, The Famous delivers on both its name and its pedigree. If you think “steakhouse,” the image that comes to mind will closely resemble the interior of The Famous. Perfect for both well-dressed business types eating on the company dime and the young couple celebrating a special occasion, polished booths and sizzling steaks awaityou m the ravenous carnivore. There are oysters galore for patronsNacho with a passion for seafood, and pork chops, chicken andthe com Colorado lamb draw a wide crowd.

Bonus

SILVER: ABBY’S IRISH PUB abbysirishpub.com

SILVER: TEXAS ROADHOUSE texasroadhouse.com

BRONZE: FOLKLORE IRISH PUB (Closed October 2023)

BRONZE: COWBOY STAR cowboystarcs.com

jackquinnspub.com

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | FOOD

bold a walks

SILV

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NWOT DOWNTOWN DOWNTO NWOD

LATE-NIGHT DINING

THE RABBIT HOLE rabbitholedinner.com

eht sah has the has the

WHEN ALICE WENT DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE, SHE NEVER considered how in the world she was to get out again. When you go down The Rabbit Hole, you might never want to get out again! Transport yourself into the whimsical, Wonderland-esque world of one of Downtown’s favorite late-night spots. Explore the curious menu, featuring the garlic red-curry tofu bites and bacon-wrapped Rabbit Meatloaf, and explore their many specialty “Drink Me” cocktails (The White Rabbit, with its signature flaming marshmallow on top, is a must). Take your time before climbing the stairs back up to Bijou Street and a world of common sense.

SILVER: CHIBA BAR | chibabar.co BRONZE: SHUGA’S | shugas.com

RESTAURANT FOR TOURISTS

FARGO’S PIZZA CO. fargospizza.com/#home

TAKE A TRIP BACK TO THE WILD, WILD WEST, A LAND where a gambler named Fargo fell in love with an Italian woman named Sophia, and where, together, they would introduce pizza to the region. While this story may not have roots in authentic Colorado history, you can experience it firsthand at Fargo’s Pizza Co. Come for the saloon-style architecture and antique items on display, stay for the wide array of pizzas, salads, soups and more. At one of the world’s largest family pizza restaurants, you’ll be in for an entertaining meal.

SILVER: COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY | cmbrew.com BRONZE: SHUGA’S | shugas.com (tie) BRONZE: LA BURLA BEE | laburlabee.com (tie) GLUTEN-FREE-FRIENDLY

TAPATERIA

gnipposhopping hs shoppin

tapateria.com

TRANSPORT YOUR TASTE BUDS TO BARCELONA AT OLD Colorado City’s Spanish tapas haven, Tapateria. Enjoy a descanso de mediodía sipping house-made sangria (or one of 200-plus wines), alongside wave after wave of delicious 100-percent gluten-free food on the cozy, heated patio. “It’s easy to come in and put whatever you want together,” says manager Haley Prater. “Our ambiance is very unique. It really feels like you’re in Spain.” With amazing food (more Chorizo & Figs please!) served by warm and attentive staff, it’s easy to feel como familia.

gniniatretne

SILVER: PORK BUTT BBQ | porkbuttbbq.com

dining entertaining dining gnin id

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BRONZE: MONSE’S TASTE OF EL SALVADOR PUPUSERIA monsestasteofelsalvador.online VEGETARIAN/VEGAN

BURROWING OWL burrowingowllounge.com

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WHEN YOU WALK IN AND START LOOKING OVER THE MENU, you might think you’re in the wrong place. Philly sandwiches? Sloppy Joes? BLTs? Nachos? Mac and cheese? But it doesn’t matter if you’re an herbivore or a carnivore — the completely vegan menu is loaded with enticing dishes that can satisfy any craving.

Bonus: Their ranch dressing is frankly amazing, and the house-made ginger beer is bold and assertive. Fun fact: Burrowing Owl supports several local nonprofits, and walks the walk when it comes to being part of the sustainable community.

l l l l l a l a a t t t i i i o D o o DD livingliving gniviplaying l

SILVER: ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFE | adamsmountaincafe.com SC_nwotnwoD sgnirpSoda DowntownCS.com DowntownCS.com roloCnwotnw DowntownColoradoSprings oD mDowntownColoradoS oc.SCnw Downtown_CS otnwoD BRONZE: SANTANA’S VEGAN GRILL | santanasvegangrill.com FOOD | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

19

THANK YOU

Colorado Springs for 20 years of support!

WINGS

O’FURRY’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL ofurryscs.com

THERE’S A REASON A RESTAURANT WOULD WIN “BEST Wings” too many times to count. And it’s not a long list of fruity, boozy or trendy flavors. At O’Furry’s you can get them mild or spicy. You just have to decide how many you want. Feeling adventurous? Go for the Double-Dipped. The wings are fried, dipped in their signature sauce, then finished on the grill. Be warned, you might not be able to go back to other wings after this.

SILVER: WINGSTOP | wingstop.com BRONZE: SLICE420 | slice420.com (tie) BRONZE: BUFFALO WILD WINGS | buffalowildwings.com (tie)

Paravicini’s - Gold Italian & Neighborhood Restaurant West Franco Pisani - Silver Chef & Bronze Cooking Class

COLONEL MUSTARD’S SANDWICH EMPORIUM colmustardsandwich.com

Paravicini’s Italian Bistro Paravicini’s Italian Bistro Bistro Paravicini’s Italian

SANDWICH

KARRIE WILLIAMS AND MARK JAKUSOVSZKY RECENTLY MARKED their third anniversary as owners of Colonel Mustard’s Sandwich Emporium, which they celebrate each year on the first Saturday of August (National Mustard Day). Their huge menu of unique sandwiches, made with locally baked artisanal breads, is complemented by a Not Sandwiches menu, as well as coffees, desserts and breakfast. And there are over 150 varieties of mustard for purchase. “We are so excited and proud of our staff,” says Williams of the Best Of honor. “We are delighted that so many happy customers enjoy every sandwich.” Colonel Mustard’s also has a monthly charity cribbage tournament and — for a twist on a sweet tooth treat — offers The Colonel’s World Famous Mustard Ice Cream.

SILVER: CHEBA HUT | chebahut.com BRONZE: VIVACE GOURMET CAFÉ AND CATERING vivacegourmet.com NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT – DOWNTOWN

SHUGA’S shugas.com

IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT AN ESTABLISHMENT THAT’S gained a cult reputation in the Springs over the last two decades is once again on the Gold winners list. With whimsy and playfulness, Shuga’s has earned a following for routinely delivering on promises of good company culture and craveable meals. Try their coconut shrimp soup and see if you can resist coming back for more. Or pair it with their Cuban sandwich for an explosion of flavor you’ll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. Add on their lavender blossom martini, and you’re in for a fun and delectable occasion.

SILVER: LA BURLA BEE | laburlabee.com (tie) SILVER: POOR RICHARD’S | poorrichardsdowntown.com (tie) BRONZE: FUJIYAMA | fujiyamasushi.com LUNCH

SHUGA’S shugas.com

SHUGA’S IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE ABOVE.

SILVER: FUJIYAMA | fujiyamasushi.com BRONZE: POOR RICHARD’S | poorrichardsdowntown.com 20

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | FOOD

CHEF

BROTHER LUCK fourbybrotherluck.com

BROTHER LUCK FIRST CAME TO FAME FOR HIS POPULARITY on celebrity chef shows and his standout restaurants; the best known is Four by Brother Luck, which is “redefining Southwestern cuisine for the culinary connoisseur.” Alongside that success, he’s increasingly known for his work in public speaking, mental health advocacy and supporting communities. The James Beard nominee’s newest venture is The Studio, “an intimate retreat located above the hustle and bustle of Downtown.” It’s an upscale, private setting where “guests looking to do something a little different” can take a carefully curated culinary journey. In the midst of all this, Luck mentors young talent in the culinary world, building a bright future for Colorado Springs’ restaurant scene.

NATURAL FOOD STORE

MOUNTAIN MAMA NATURAL FOODS

mountainmamanaturalfoods.com

SILVER: FRANCO PISANI – PARAVICINI’S ITALIAN BISTRO | paravicinis.com

FAMILY-OWNED AND -OPERATED, MOUNTAIN MAMA NATURAL FOODS has been bringing Colorado Springs organic produce, natural foods, vitamins/supplements and body care products since its opening in 1979. Owner Julie Sasinka says the company’s committed to offering outstanding one-on-one service in a smaller, comfortable, local atmosphere and creating a closely connected community. “We have an amazing staff who love being part of the community,” she says. “We have known our community for many, many years. It’s a little more intimate scene and a little more community-based.”

BRONZE: NORA DILLON – EPHEMERA ephemeradinners.com

SILVER: SPROUTS | sprouts.com BRONZE: NATURAL GROCERS | naturalgrocers.com FOOD | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

21

OVERALL RESTAURANT

EPHEMERA

ephemeradinners.com LOCATED UPSTAIRS IN COATI, THIS TASTE OF FINE DINING IS unlike any other you have experienced. Beginning in 2018 as a series of multisensory pop-up dinners, Ephemera offers its customers the ability to experience it in different ways. You could choose to indulge in the seven-course tasting menu, and go further with wine pairings from a chef or certified sommelier. Or, if you’re more interested in trying out specific meals, you could order from the menu à la carte. And to complete the experience, be sure to take in the assortment of locally produced art located throughout the establishment.

SILVER: SHUGA’S | shugas.com BRONZE: LA BURLA BEE | laburlabee.com (tie) BRONZE: ATMOSPHERE GASTROPUB atmospheregastropub.com

NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT – SOUTH

FELIPE’S 109 felipes109.com

BURGERS, BOWLS AND HEAPS OF GREEN CHILE. THESE menu items are what make Felipe’s stand out in a sea of fast-food imitations. A fusion of Mexican and American cuisines — one that includes $2 taco burgers all day on Tuesdays — Felipe’s offers a short but delicious menu for those looking to combine the nostalgic tastes of a ’60s carhop drive-in with distinct Mexican flavors. Be sure to try out their green chile queso or go for a hand-dipped milkshake.

Felipe’s truly delivers on their motto: “Love, peace, and green chili.”

SILVER: VIVACE GOURMET | vivacegourmet.com BRONZE: THE PUBLIC HOUSE | thepublichouseco.com

22

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | FOOD

THANKS FOR VOTING US

BEST SANDWICH SHOP!

Breakfast & Lunch • Tues-Sun 9-4 AWARD-WINNING SANDWICHES

1412 S. 21st St. - Colorado Springs

C O L M U S TA R D S A N D W I C H .C O M

• Soups • Salads • Sweets • Craft Beer & Wine 100 GOURMET MUSTARDS FOR SALE

Try Our World Famous Mustard Ice Cream!

AWARD WINNING VENUES

NEW RESTAURANT (SINCE 7.1.22)

DOKI DOKI

facebook.com/FindDoki DOKI DOKI OWNER AND OPERATOR JOHN KOENIG WANTS TO dispel the rumor that his fries have crack in them. They’re just seasoned to perfection with Japanese curry. In just over one year, Koenig’s truck has already gained a reputation for his Japanese-style pub food that he mostly makes from scratch. The menu consists of curry, chicken or pork katsu (which is like chicken-fried steak), sandos (Japanese sandwiches) and the famous fries. “The food pairs really, really well with beer,” Koenig says, “which is part of the success, I think.” Part of the success is also Koenig’s connection with community. “It’s really about bringing people together — community through food,” he says.

“It’s a shared experience.” And for those familiar with Coco’s in Japan, Koenig’s food provides a similar experience. Like all trucks, Doki Doki moves throughout the week; locations are posted on the Facebook page.

SILVER: SUSHI ROW | sushi-row.com

SILVER BEST NEW BAR BEST SPORTS BAR

SILVER BEST WEDDING VENU

BRONZE BEST UPSCALE BAR

BRONZE: SUMMA | facebook.com/SummaCOS FOOD | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

23

Tuesday-Sunday 3pm to 10pm

321 N Tejon St. Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Unique Southwestern-style dishes and creative cocktails served in relaxed digs with craft beer on tap.

Happy Hour every day at 3pm to 6pm

NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT – NORTH

ATMOSPHERE GASTROPUB atmospheregastropub.com

IN A WORD: PLAYFUL. THE MENU HAS A SENSE OF HUMOR, AND the chefs have the chops to back it up and send out delectable bites that cry out to be shared. From the smallest detail, like the zucchini pickles, to the decadence of a grilled cheese sandwich combining duck confit, Muenster and prosciutto, you won’t be disappointed. Whether you just want a Cup o’ Bacon, or you and your bestie want to split the Bulgogi Steak Fries, there’s something on this menu for everyone, without being a cookie-cutter of anyone else in town.

Also offering: Catering Services Event Spaces Cooking Classes

fourbybrotherluck.com chefbrotherluck.com

SILVER: COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY | cmbrew.com (tie) SILVER: THE PUBLIC HOUSE AT THE ALEXANDER thepublichouseco.com (tie)

Bar & them i juicy p BRONZE: ARLENE’S BEANS | arlenesbeans.com rich a bison put it and it NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT – WEST bun, h an am taco to frbbq.com the do SERVING HANDCRAFTED SOUTHERN-STYLE BARBEQUEthe dr and live homegrown music since 2000, Front Range Barbeque has a loyal following.

On Wednesdays year-round you can catch live music on the patio, with Sunday setsSILV added during the warm-weather season. Front Range also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, with their Halloween party and their 23rd Anniversary party onSILV the horizon. Guy Fieri ate there for Diners, Drive-ins and Dives in 2016, saying the foodwobb has “amazing flavors, and [is] smoked to perfection.” You’ll find homemade fixin’sBRO and local craft beers on the menu. woog

FRONT RANGE BARBEQUE

Ivan Ruiz, Eyes over Colorado Photography

Thank you Colorado Springs!

SILVER for Happy Hour Menu BRONZE for Steak BRONZE for Happy Hour

SILVER: 503W | 503w.co BRONZE: PARAVICINI’S | paravicinis.com FOOD TRUCK

DOKI DOKI

facebook.com/FindDoki DOKI DOKI IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE P. 23.

Doors open nightly at 4:00 See you here!

719.639.7440 • 5198 N. Nevada Ave., Suite150 • www.cowboystar.com 24

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | FOOD

See p.

SILV thefa

SILVER: THE CHUCKWAGON 719 facebook.com/chuckwagon719

BRO pepp

BRONZE: CHEF BOB’S LOBSTAH TRAP facebook.com/thelobstahtrap

BRO rabb

COOKING CLASSES

THE FRENCH KITCHEN tfkcc.com

OWNER BLANDINE MAZÉRAN STARTED THE FRENCH Kitchen to share the joys of French cooking. Eleven years later, she’s expanded her classes to include Asian food, chocolates, bread, cakes, all kinds of meats and so much more! “What we teach is easily reproducible at home,” says Mazéran, “and the goal is that, what you learn here you can use in your own home. There is always plenty of food to take home.”

Even if you can’t join one of the excellent cooking classes, you can still swing by for a taste of all the sweet and savory flavors their chefs have to offer in the front-of-house Café and Bakery, and grab an extra éclair to go (you’ll thank yourself later).

SILVER: GATHER FOOD STUDIO gatherfoodstudio.com BRONZE: PARAVICINI’S/CHEF FRANCO PISANI paravicinis.com

NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT – EAST

CAREFREE BAR & GRILL carefreebarandgrillco.com

PSST. DON’T TELL ANYONE, BUT CAREFREE Bar & Grill has some of the best fried chicken in the Springs! Tell them instead how the fried portabella mushroom strips are crispy, juicy perfections full of earthy flavor. Or about the mac and cheese, rich and creamy, which can be customized with bacon, shredded bison tenderloin or Buffalo chicken. That shredded bison? Hot tip: put it on everything! It turns the quesadilla into a substantial meal, and it succulently stars in the Not-So-French Dip on a garlic hoagie bun, hearty and toothsome. Or tell them about the frybread tacos, an ambrosial mashup of golden frybread smothered with traditional taco toppings. The friendly staff makes everyone who comes through the door feel like they’ve stepped into their very own “Cheers,” and the drink prices are some of the most reasonable in town.

SILVER: SLICE420 | slice420.com (tie) SILVER: THE WOBBLY OLIVE wobblyolive.com (tie) BRONZE: WOOGLIN’S DELI & CAFE wooglinsdeli.com FINE DINING

EPHEMERA

ephemeradinners.com See p. 22.

EPHEMERA IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER.

SILVER: THE FAMOUS STEAKHOUSE thefamoussteakhouse.net BRONZE: THE PEPPERTREE RESTAURANT peppertreecs.com (tie) BRONZE: THE RABBIT HOLE rabbitholedinner.com (tie) FOOD | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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DRINK

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CRAFT COCKTAIL MENU

LA BURLA BEE

will fi side an endles Beer C welcom biking

laburlabee.com

A BURLESQUE BAR THAT WELCOMES PEOPLE OF ALL IDENtities, La Burla Bee’s cocktail menu, fittingly, also values diversity and uniqueness. Classic drinks like martinis and Manhattans are reinvented and improved through craft recipes that aren’t afraid to take risks. For example, Satan’s Angel incorporates jalapeño-infused tequila, orange liqueur, lime, honey syrup and pinot grigio in what the website describes as “Our spicy spin on a margarita, named after the iconic legend of burlesque of the 1960s known for spinning fire tassels.” General Manager Romeo Uncaged explains the significance of the cocktails’ names, which reference burlesque legends: “These are the men and women that came before us... and were raped, beaten and put in jail for doing cabaret-style shows. We do homage to them by naming our signature cocktails after them.”

SILVER: SHUGA’S | shugas.com BRONZE: 503W | 503w.co (tie) BRONZE: ARCHIVES | thearchivescos.com (tie) 26

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | DRINK

BREWERY/BREWPUB

GOAT PATCH BREWING COMPANY

SILV goatp

BRO

goatpatchbrewing.com

GOAT PATCH CRAFTS AN EXCEPTIONAL VARIETY OF BREWS: IPAS, lagers, pumpkin-spiced ales, and even hard seltzers. Since their 2016 launch, they’ve also shown exceptional levels of community engagement. Both the business practices and social activities stem from a core mission, which co-owner Justin Grant defines as “Balanced beers, giving back to the community, and sharing a good pint with someone.” A few examples: ongoing outreach work with local causes, a calendar full of offbeat events See p.

(Goat yoga? Count us in!), and their ever-evolving food truck lineup. “The biggest thing for us,” Grant says, “is we feel like we built something special.”

SILV

SILVER: RED LEG BREWING CO. | redlegbrewing.com

SILV

BRONZE: CERBERUS BREWING CO. | cerberusbrewingco.com

BRO

CIDER HOUSE

BATCH SLAPPED batchslapped.com

CIDERS AREN’T JUST FOR APPLES ANYMORE . BATCH Slapped features everything from banana, to melon, to fruit punch Gatorade in its house ciders. They take an experimental approach to their beers as well, as co-owner Emily O’Keefe explains. The customer favorite Hangover series, for example, “was initially a maple blueberry coffee beer, and then we changed it to peach, and it’s about to be pumpkin.” People also love Batch Slapped’s menu; O’Keefe attributes some of their success to the fact that “we’re one of the few breweries that has in-house food as well,” running the gamut from paninis and kolaches to design-your-own charcuterie boards.

SILVER: BOXING BROTHERS | mcbev.com/boxingbrothers BRONZE: COLORADO CIDER CO. | coloradocider.com DRIVE-THRU COFFEE

DUTCH BROS dutchbros.com

DUTCH BROS HAS YOUR COFFEE CRAVINGS COVERED WITH their abundant selection of coffees, teas and energy drinks, and the customizability to have them any way you choose (iced, hot, blended? They got you). Since their days as a pushcart by the railroad tracks in Grants Pass, Oregon, they’ve provided a caring customer culture, while hosting multiple charitable organizations, such as Drink One for Dane, a day dedicated to raising funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association in honor of their co-founder Dane Boersma, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2007 and died two years later.

“Our heart is to serve and to give people a place they can belong,” says Dan Hutchcraft, assistant manager of the Colorado and Weber location. “Above and beyond just giving you a great drink, we want you to become a regular.”

SILVER: HUMBLE COFFEE | hbrcoffee.com BRONZE: KANGAROO COFFEE | kangaroocoffeellc.com TAP ROOM

TRAILS END TAPROOM trailsendtaproom.com

LOVERS OF BEER, CIDER, WINE, AND EVEN KOMBUCHA will find something to enjoy at Trails End Taproom, which has locations on the Westside and in Monument and a kiosk on the patio at Criterium Bicycles. With seemingly endless “pour-your-own” taps, trying new brews is as easy as snagging a Trails End Beer Card and pouring yourself a drink — and you only pay by the ounce! Dogs are welcome on the patios, which are perfect for cooling down after your latest hiking or biking adventure. It’s no wonder Trails End has won Gold six years running.

SILVER: GOAT PATCH BREWING COMPANY goatpatchbrewing.com BRONZE: OCC BREWING | occbrewing.com MARGARITA

CRYSTAL PARK CANTINA crystalparkcantina.com See p. 15.

CRYSTAL PARK CANTINA IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER.

SILVER: DOS SANTOS | dossantostacos.com (tie) SILVER: THE LOOP | theloopatmanitou.com (tie) BRONZE: JOSÉ MULDOON’S | josemuldoons.com DRINK | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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LOCAL COFFEE SHOP

LOYAL COFFEE loyalcoffee.co

FEW COFFEE SHOPS ARE AS ROOTED IN the community as Loyal Coffee. Owned by its baristas, Loyal Coffee operates its roasting clubhouse and two café locations in the Springs. Its website describes the blends they sell and serve as “exciting and approachable for all coffee drinkers.”

Its baristas’ dedication goes beyond serving up the perfect cup, though. As their website puts it, “We are committed to developing quality-focused and economically beneficial relationships with coffee producers that will positively impact all communities in the process of coffee production.” In short, Loyal’s roasts don’t just taste good; they do good.

SILVER: THE PERK DOWNTOWN theperkdowntown.com BRONZE: THE EXCHANGE theexchangeontejon.com SMOOTHIE/JUICE BAR

OLA JUICE BAR olajuicebar.com

STORE FOR CRAFT BEER

COALTRAIN FINE WINE, CRAFT BEER & SPIRITS coaltrainwine.com

PEGGY MCKINLAY, CO-OWNER OF COALTRAIN, REVEALS THE SECRET TO ITS UNPARalleled selection of craft beer: “Our beer staff gets together, and when salesmen come in, they bring samples,” which the beer staff tastes, “and they decide whether they think they’re good enough to be in the store.” Wines and specialty liquors also have to gain the staff’s approval. McKinlay also says that Coaltrain has grown with its customers’ tastes; when the store opened, “Wine used to be our main focus. That was our claim to fame. But when craft beers came along, they became equally important,” prompting expansions in Coaltrain’s beer offerings and beer staff. The more recent rise of specialty liquor led to the store’s physical expansion to accommodate demand.

SILVER: CHEERS LIQUOR MART | cheersliquormart.com BRONZE: WEBER STREET LIQUOR | weberstreetliquor.com STORE FOR WINE

SILVER: SMOOTHIE KING smoothieking.com (tie) SILVER: KÈVA JUICE kevajuice.com (tie) BRONZE: JAMBA | jamba.com STORE FOR SPIRITS

COALTRAIN FINE WINE, CRAFT BEER & SPIRITS

coaltrainwine.com

COALTRAIN FINE WINE, CRAFT BEER & SPIRITS

COALTRAIN IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. See left.

COALTRAIN IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE ABOVE AND RIGHT.

SILVER: CHEERS LIQUOR MART cheersliquormart.com

coaltrainwine.com

SILVER: CHEERS LIQUOR MART | cheersliquormart.com BRONZE: DOWNTOWN FINE SPIRITS & WINES | dtnfspiritsandwines.com 28

OL A JUICE BAR IS BRINGING natural, healthy foods and beverages to the masses. Café manager Christina Mondon outlines the basic approach to their menu as, “We are completely vegan, dairy-free, [and] working on becoming gluten-free.” While this makes Ola perfect for people with food sensitivities or who simply want to eat healthier, its smoothies, juices, wraps and bowls are sure to be a hit with any palate. If you’re new to eating better, no problem. Mondon emphasizes, “We really take pride in talking with our customers, educating them on what we have to offer, and just creating a really welcoming space for truly everybody.”

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | DRINK

BRONZE: DOWNTOWN FINE SPIRITS & WINES | dtnfspiritsandwines.com

Brought to you by your friends at:

JACK QUINN’S

IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT

OVER A QUINTILLION SERVED

Don’t drink and drive.

DRINK | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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I Guess We’re Growing On you

www.swirlismybar.com

THANKS FOR VOTING US

BRONZE Craft Beer!

YOUR FAVORITE NEIGHBORHOOD STORE SINCE 1974!

712 N. Weber Street 475.9533

www.weberstreetliquor.com weberstreetliquor.com

LOOSE, LOCAL LUCKY TRIPLE CROWN CASINOS

DISTILLERY

AXE AND THE OAK DISTILLERY axeandtheoakdistillery.com

AXE AND THE OAK DISTILLERY OFFERS GUESTS MORE THAN JUST award-winning whiskey, gin and spirits. Co-owner Casey Ross describes it as a place where people can “sit down with a glass of whiskey or a cocktail and communicate, socialize, converse.” Started by five friends united by a love of whiskey, Axe and the Oak fittingly attributes their growth to their community and the friendships developed with customers over the 10 years since the distillery’s launch. Ross notes that whiskey lovers aren’t just one type of person: “We cater to a bunch of folks... from college all the way up.” Visitors can enjoy a range of spirits and cocktails, along with cigars, meat pies and ice creams, or even take part in the bottling process during biweekly events.

SILVER: DISTILLERY 291 | distillery291.com BRONZE: 1350 DISTILLING | 1350distilling.com

TASTING ROOM (SPIRITS)

Cripple Creek, Colorado

AXE AND THE OAK DISTILLERY axeandtheoakdistillery.com above.

A XE AND THE OAK IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE

SILVER: DISTILLERY 291 | distillery291.com BRONZE: BLACKHAT DISTILLERY | blackhatdistillery.com 30

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | DRINK

LOCALLY PRODUCED BEER

LAUGHING LAB – BRISTOL bristolbrewing.com

CHANCES ARE, YOU’RE ALREADY FAMILIAR WITH Bristol’s flagship Scottish ale, with its balance of sweet, nutty and roasted flavors. Bristol Brewing Company co-owner and creator of Laughing Lab, Mike Bristol, observes that the beer, available only in Colorado, “is almost synonymous with Colorado Springs in the beer world,” thanks to nine Great American Beer Festival awards and a plethora of local accolades since its creation in 1994. Bristol says, “It’s a point of pride, I think, for Colorado Springs to have such an award-winning beer coming out of here.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.

SILVER: HAZY IPA – GOAT PATCH BREWING CO. goatpatchbrewing.com BRONZE: STICKY PAWS – FH BEERWORKS fhbeerworks.com (tie) BRONZE: TINY UMBRELLA PARTY – CERBERUS BREWING CO. | cerberusbrewingco.com (tie)

COFFEE ROASTER

SWITCHBACK COFFEE switchbackroasters.com

BRANDON DELGROSSO DIDN’T KNOW WHAT business he was getting into. What he did know, though, is that it was never just a coffee shop. Switchback’s slogan, “we believe in excellent coffee for everyone,” is more than words on a page. “We try to create a space ... where people from all different types of backgrounds can feel like they belong,” he says. For DelGrosso, producing great coffee is his passion. “We buy super high-quality beans with great sourcing practices....” says DelGrosso, who adds Switchback maintains relationships with farms in Guatemala, Bolivia, Honduras, Kenya and Ethiopia,.“We love bringing specialty coffee to the city and we want to make sure that it’s excellent coffee for everyone,” he says.

SILVER: LOYAL COFFEE | loyalcoffee.co BRONZE: SOLAR ROAST COFFEE | solarroast.com WINE BAR

UVA WINE BAR uvawinebarcos.com

HUSBAND-AND-WIFE TEAM ALEC AND LIZ Blakeley launched Uva Wine Bar with a mission of making wine accessible to people, regardless of their prior experiences. As Liz Blakeley explains, “We want to let people know that wine doesn’t have to be stuffy and expensive.” She also describes Uva as “a very friendly environment... people can come in dressed down or dressed up, and everybody’s welcome.” Uva offers something for wine novices and experts alike, with more than 40 wines available by the glass, plus a full menu of shareables, grilled dishes, soups and salads, meats SEEand cheeses, and homemade desserts. Try their wine bootcamps and geographically themed wine dinners, and stay for live music.

Y

SILVER: SWIRL WINE BAR | swirlismybar.com BRONZE: VINE & WHEEL | vineandwheel.com DRINK | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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Serving that Freshy-Fresh 7 days a week.

Happy Hour: Daily from 3:30—5PM | Mondays All Night Long!

11 S. Tejon St., Downtown Colorado Springs | jaxfishhouse.com 32

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | DRINK

m

NIGHTLIFE

DIVE BAR

TONY’S

tonysdowntownbar.com TONY’S EXEMPLIFIES WHAT A BELOVED neighborhood dive bar should be: a comfortable, casual place where you can relax with a beer, whether you’re watching the Packers game or catching up with friends. Owner Eel Anderson described the instructions that business partner — and bar namesake — Tony Leahy issued when they launched nearly 24 years ago: “I want Pabst Blue Ribbon, Old Style, and fried cheese curds. The rest is up to you.” The bar’s daily happy hour specials are extensive and affordable, so you won’t have to sell a kidney to afford a pitcher of PBR. Tony’s hosts regular weekly events most nights of the week, including trivia and karaoke. Anderson credits and thanks the staff for awards the bar wins and suggests, “The next time you’re at Tony’s, maybe thank them for their awesomeness.” Over a PBR, perhaps.

SILVER: BENNY’S | bennyscos.com BRONZE: VULTURES vulturesrocks.com

NEIGHBORHOOD BAR – NORTH

CASINO

GOOD COMPANY

WILDWOOD CASINO

goodcompanybar.com

GOOD COMPANY RESTAUR ANT and Bar has been a highlight of the north end of Colorado Springs for years. Beyond their bar grub, drink specials, trivia nights and live music, Good Company features “Bandeoke” — a twist on the karaoke formula in which you get to perform in front of a live band. The Briargate community bar is also a destination for sporting events, with a friendly wait staff that dresses for the occasion. Good Company has also served as host for the annual silent auction and liquor auction that benefits St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

WILDWOOD CA SINO RECENTLY TR ANSItioned to Golden Nugget. But the Vegas company’s acquisition of Wildwood hasn’t changed the way locals and visitors enjoy the experiences it has to offer. With a variety of coffee spots, bars and restaurants right on the premises, it’s all too easy to find yourself at a home away from home. And with lodging options next to the casino, it’s easier than ever to keep your whole vacation local.

SILVER: BACK EAST BAR & GRILL backeastbarandgrill.com

SILVER: THE BRASS ASS triplecrowncasinos.com/the-brass-ass

BRONZE: UVA WINE BAR uvawinebarcos.com

goldennugget.com/cripple-creek

BRONZE: BRONCO BILLY’S broncobillyscasino.com NIGHTLIFE | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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NEW BAR/BREWERY (SINCE 7.1.22)

URBAN ANIMAL urbanimalbeerco.com

IT’S ALL IN THE BREW. NO OTHER QUESTIONS. No further inquiries. “The beer speaks for itself,” says Megan Rall, a tap room manager who’s one of the team’s core members. If you walk in with absolutely no idea what kind of beer suits your fancy, Rall might recommend the Propaganda America IPA. But for most patrons, it’s a chooseyour-own-adventure. “The variety that we have could satisfy anyone,” says Rall, “so it really just depends on personal preference.” Even the hesitant, hard-to-please brew connoisseurs should leave their anxieties at the door. “I’ve been here since Day One and there hasn’t been a bad beer yet.”

SILVER: TRAINWRECK | trainwreckco.com BRONZE: TIPPERARY COCKTAIL PARLOR instagram.com/tipperarycocktailparlor (tie) BRONZE: BUZZED CROW BISTRO buzzedcrowbistro.com (tie) 34

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | NIGHTLIFE

NEIGHBORHOOD BAR – WEST

MOTHER MUFF’S KITCHEN & SPIRITS mothermuffs.com

“A DIVE BAR GEM IN OLD COLORADO CITY,” MOTHER MUFF’S KITCHEN & SPIRITS IS a perennial Westside fave. Maybe it’s the irreverent style that keeps the regulars coming back while also attracting new business. Muff’s declares “It’s 8 AM somewhere!” because the good times start when the doors open for breakfast. The Bloody Marys are Westside-famous, but the hair of the dog comes in many varieties. “Specialty Curfew Extender coffee cocktails, Bubble Juice Champagne cocktails, and a beer menu your Mother would love makes our drink menu the most unique in town,” Muff’s website says.

But pace yourself — Muff’s is open late, and we haven’t even gotten to the bar games and loaded fries...

SILVER: NOVA WEST | supernovabar.com/nova-west BRONZE: BENNY’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE bennys-restaurant-lounge.business.site

OVERALL BAR

LA BURLA BEE laburlabee.com

LA BURLA BEE IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE P. 26 AND 37.

SILVER: TONY’S | tonysdowntownbar.com BRONZE: THE MANSION | mansioncs.com UPSCALE BAR

LA BURLA BEE laburlabee.com

LA BURLA BEE IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE P. 26 AND 37.

SILVER: THE MANSION | mansioncs.com BRONZE: VINE & WHEEL | vineandwheel.com ADULT NIGHT CLUB

LA BURLA BEE laburlabee.com

LA BURLA BEE IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE P. 26 AND 37.

SILVER: THE MANSION | mansioncs.com BRONZE: STUDIO 32 DISCOTHÈQUE | studio32discotheque.com

A&O_9.375x5.275_half-page-ad_orig2_10.11.23.indd 1

10/12/2023 5:11:44 PM

NIGHTLIFE | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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NEIGHBORHOOD BAR – EAST

BUZZED CROW BISTRO buzzedcrowbistro.com (tie)

“Best Theatre”

CS Indy 2023 Gold Winner Thank You CS Indy Readers for voting Millibo Art Theatre Gold Winner for Best Theatre! Congratulations also to Springs Ensemble Theatre and to all “Best of ” Winners!

Mike Lee and Anna Faye Hunter in Picasso at the Lapin Agile - Feb 9-26, 2023

NEWCOMER BUZZED CROW BISTRO, THE EASTSIDE BAR loosely based on the 1994 film The Crow, has a lot to brag about. General manager Zeke Matthew starts with the food. “Our brisket, our tri-tip, our smoked wings — is second to none, some of the best in the area,” says Matthew. Buzzed sprinkles events throughout the week from karaoke to poker, but the bar also serves up live music every Friday and Saturday. “We have the best entertainment available on the Eastside,” says Matthew. “Everybody’s kind of going off of what we do; we’re kind of setting the trend.”

CAREFREE BAR AND GRILL carefreebarandgrillco.com (tie)

CAREFREE BAR AND GRILL IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE P. 25.

The MilliBOO!

SILVER: VULTURES | vulturesrocks.com BRONZE: THE CONTROL ROOM facebook.com/controlroomarcade (tie)

Enjoy sing-along music from Eric West and laugh-out-loud comedy magic from Scott McRay. Fun for all ages!

BRONZE: THE WOBBLY OLIVE | wobblyolive.com (tie)

NEIGHBORHOOD BAR – SOUTH

C’MON INN

11AM & 2 PM SAT

OCT 28

facebook.com/cmoninnbar

Costume Contest, Hat Giveaways and Special Treats are included.

The Belle of Amherst The life and poetry of of Emily Dickinson - one of the world’s greatest poets.

Starring Award-Winning actress Jessica Robblee.

Not to be missed!

8 SHOWS ONLY

TH-FR-SA-SU

NOV 2-12

“Robblee captures Dickinson’s blend of intelligence, SEPT 8-9inquisitiveness, and underlying melancholy with an astonishing degree of success.” – On Stage Colorado 7:30PM FRI-SAT

AS THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE CONTINUES TO DEVOLVE INTO acronyms, misnomers and intentional misspellings of complex words for the sake of simplicity (there is no such thing as a donut), C’MON INN is steadfast in its apt self-description. “The bar down where we’re at, it speaks for itself. It’s just a great ‘Cheers’ kind of feel,” says Dana Buck, a core employee of the establishment for nine years. You can dig into burgers, nachos or fry baskets, but really it’s the atmosphere you’ll fall in love with. “They all make you feel like family once you’ve been there once or twice.”

SILVER: THE PUBLIC HOUSE facebook.com/PublicHouseColorado BRONZE: THE HATCH COVER | hatchcover.biz

SPORTS BAR

TONY’S

tonysdowntownbar.com TONY’S IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE P. 33.

SILVER: UPPER90 TAVERN | soccerhauscs.com/upper-90-tavern (tie) SILVER: TRAINWRECK | trainwreckco.com (tie) BRONZE: BENNY’S | bennyscos.com (tie)

Support Original Live Theatre Donate to The Millibo’s Give! Campaign

NOV 1 - DEC 31

.

BRONZE: BUBBA’S 33 | bubbas33.com (tie)

THANK YOU!

NEIGHBORHOOD BAR – DOWNTOWN

TONY’S

tonysdowntownbar.com TONY’S IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE P. 33.

SILVER: LA BURLA BEE | laburlabee.com BRONZE: THE MANSION | mansioncs.com 36

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | NIGHTLIFE

File photo

BAR nager s — is events music tside,” etting

THE SPRINGS FAVORITE LIQUOR STORE FOR OVER 50 YEARS! 8000 WINE SELECTIONS 3200 SPIRIT SELECTIONS 2500 BEER SELECTIONS THANK YOU COLORADO SPRINGS FOR RECOGNIZING CHEERS! We continuously strive to support our community & our customers.

. 25.

DELIVERY, CURBSIDE, AND IN-STORE SHOPPING AVAILABLE!

Cheers!

cheersliquormart.com 719-574-2244 1105 N. Circle Drive

MUSIC VENUE

THE BLACK SHEEP blacksheeprocks.com

AS ITS NAME SUGGESTS, THE BLACK SHEEP ISN’T LIKE OTHER MUSIC VENUES IN TOWN. BEYOND THE full bar and photo booth, the space looks a little hollow during the daylight hours. “It’s a pretty bare-bones place. But when you walk in, the place just comes alive in a show,” says Rosanna Taylor, marketing director. And The Black Sheep puts on incredible shows. While it has featured bands like 21 Pilots and Imagine Dragons, it’s also made sure to provide slots for local groups to perform. “It’s really about the experience of the show more than anything.”

SILVER: LULU’S DOWNSTAIRS | lulusdownstairs.com (tie) SILVER: STARGAZERS THEATRE & EVENT CENTER | stargazerstheatre.com (tie) BRONZE: VULTURES | vulturesrocks.com

PLACE FOR COMEDY

HAPPY HOUR

LOONEES COMEDY CORNER

LA BURLA BEE

looneescc.com

IT’S A GOOD DEAL. “LAUGHTER IS CHEAPER THAN THERAPY, right?” says owner Erik Hawkinson. With a 30-year history of quality comedy, Loonees offers both the amenities necessary for a good show along with a full bar (arguably one and the same). Eddie Griffin and Daniel Tosh have performed on Hawkinson’s stage. “Very diverse, big names coming through all the time,” says Hawkinson. But during a usual week, Loonees runs shows on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, so there’s also plenty of time to see your favorite local comedians under the bright lights.

SILVER: LA BURLA BEE | laburlabee.com BRONZE: 3E’S COMEDY CLUB | 3escomedy.com

laburlabee.com

LA BURLA BEE IS A MULTIPLE Gold winner. See p. 26 and 35.

SILVER: TONY’S tonysdowntownbar.com BRONZE: SHUGA’S | shugas.com (tie) BRONZE: JACK QUINN’S IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT jackquinnspub.com (tie) BRONZE: COWBOY STAR cowboystarcs.com (tie)

YOUR FAVORITE NEIGHBORHOOD DELI AND CAFÉ!

• Classic breakfast • Handcrafted sandwiches • House-baked breads• Custom Catering • Handcrafted desserts & pastries • House-made potato chips

BRONZE Best Neighborhood Restaurant East ESTABLISHED 1989!

4750 Barnes Rd. • 719.578.9443 wooglinsdeli.com

NIGHTLIFE | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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ARTS, NEIGHBORHOOD & COMMUNITY ART GALLERY

G44 GALLERY AND KREUSER GALLERY g44gallery.com, kreusergallery.com

WHILE G44 GALLERY AND KREUSER GALLERY share an interior door, it’s their owners’ shared passion for local culture that earned their venues Best Art Gallery honors. Abigail Kreuser, Kreuser Gallery’s owner, and G44 owner Gundega Stevens provide a safe space for artists to be vulnerable and express themselves. “We have so much talent in this city that has gone unrecognized,” Stevens says, so she and Kreuser focus on highlighting local creators while building a strong arts community in Colorado Springs.

SILVER: GALLERY 113 | gallery113cos.com BRONZE: COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER AT COLORADO COLLEGE fac.coloradocollege.edu

THEATER COMPANY

SPRINGS ENSEMBLE THEATRE springsensembletheatre.org (tie)

AND... SCENE! THE SPRINGS ENSEMBLE THEATRE team is interested in diverse perspectives and storytelling.

Their first show, Talk Radio, premiered in 2010, and they have been supported by returning — and new — audiences ever since. Steve Emily, SET’s vice president, says they don’t shy away from difficult subjects and offer their audiences a wide variety of shows. In the company’s welcoming space, the audience “is not only going to experience something, they’re going to become the final cast member,” says Emily. “They know that because of the intimacy.”

MILLIBO ART THEATRE themat.org (tie)

AUDIENCES CALL MILLIBO ART THEATRE “A REAL gem in our community,” where actors, vocalists, comedians, acrobats and other performers are “putting on one-of-a-kind, absolutely breathtaking (and side-splitting) performances.”

For 22 years, the MAT has been making creative, artistic and adventurous theater. A vital part of the Springs’ theater scene, it engages audiences of all ages and backgrounds through workshops, dialogue, summer camps, arts residencies and touring shows. Steps away from the restaurants and bars of Ivywild School, the MAT has everything from puppetry, circus and theater adventures for families, to plays, comedy, cabaret, student showcases and improv.

SILVER: THEATREWORKS | entcenterforthearts.org/theatreworks BRONZE: FUNKY LITTLE THEATER COMPANY | funkylittletheater.org 38

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | ARTS, NEIGHBORHOOD & COMMUNITY

FOOD AND/OR DRINK EVENT

TASTE OF PIKES PEAK tasteofpikespeak.com

IT ALL STARTED 28 YEARS AGO AS A TRADE SHOW — THE Annual Pikes Peak Food, Wine and Beer Expo — but has turned into one of the most popular food and drink events in Colorado. It’s the perfect event to sample local hot spots and jam out to live music, and 2023 was the most successful year yet, with a huge turnout from restaurants, volunteers and sponsors. Organized by the Pikes Peak Chapter of the Colorado Restaurant Association — which was founded in 1933 and employs over 250,000 people — Taste of Pikes Peak stands out on the culinary calendar.

Start growing your appetite now!

SILVER: PIKES PEAK PRIDE FESTIVAL pikespeakpride.org BRONZE: HILLSIDE GARDENS SUMMER CONCERT SERIES hillsidecolorado.com (tie) BRONZE: PAWTOBERFEST hsppr.org/events/pawtoberfest-2023 (tie)

Connect with the animals.

Connect with each other.

Get closer than ever.

TOURIST ATTRACTION

Advance tickets required.

Visit cmzoo.org today.

GARDEN OF THE GODS gardenofgods.com

GARDEN OF THE GODS: THE ICONIC, JAGGED, ORANGE, sandstone formations jut out into the skyline of what is now Colorado Springs. In 1859, Rufus Cable, one of the original surveyors, called it a place fit for the gods, and the name stuck. Enjoy the trails and walkways, or drive the winding roads and take in views of the iconic Kissing Camels, Balanced Rock, Siamese Twins and more.

From vehicle tours to horseback riding to self-guided hiking or climbing adventures, there is no wrong way to explore and experience the beauty of Garden of the Gods Park. Entrance to the park and the Visitor and Nature Center are free (although some activities are offered through a third party or require permits and may include fees).

Go touch rocks!

SILVER: PIKES PEAK – AMERICA’S MOUNTAIN coloradosprings.gov/drivepikespeak

In partnership with

WINSLOW COURT A STELLAR LIVING COMMUNITY

BRONZE: CAVE OF THE WINDS MOUNTAIN PARK caveofthewinds.com (tie)

THANK YOU

BRONZE: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO cmzoo.org (tie) MUSEUM

COLORADO SPRINGS PIONEERS MUSEUM

VOTERS

FOR THE GOLD

cspm.org

IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN, COLORADO SPRINGS PIONEERS MUSEum will surprise you with exhibits and artifacts that tell the region’s story. The CSPM team works to make the museum “a mirror of our community” says Director Matt Mayberry. The historic former county courthouse building is closed while a modern HVAC system is installed, but the museum annex at 121 S. Tejon St., #100, is open and entry is always free. There you can experience Black Wings: American Dreams of Flight; The Story of Us: Pikes Peak Region A-Z; and Ute Knowledge: Colorado’s Original STEM.

SILVER: COLORADO SPRINGS FINE ARTS CENTER AT COLORADO COLLEGE fac.coloradocollege.edu

VOTED THE 2023 BEST ASSISTED LIVING AND RETIREMENT COMMUNITY IN COLORADO SPRINGS.

CALL TODAY TO SEE WHY!

719.597.1700 3920 E SAN MIGUEL ST

BRONZE: U.S. OLYMPIC & PARALYMPIC MUSEUM usopm.org ARTS, NEIGHBORHOOD & COMMUNITY | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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ARTIST

BUNNY BEE laburlabee.com

BUNNY BEE IS A RENOWNED INTERNATIONAL BURLESQUE PERFORMer, the owner of Springs cabaret La Burla Bee, and a board member of the Burlesque Hall of Fame since 2014. Burlesque “is about empowering the performer” and “acceptance and love of one’s body,” says Bunny Bee, who also took the Indy’s Best Artist honor last year. Burlesque often involves humor, and Bunny Bee performs political parodies and tributes to Saturday Night Live skits. “There is humor, and seriousness, and love, and sensuality,” she says, “and that can all be in one performance.” There are many misconceptions about burlesque, she says, and she encourages people to set aside preconceived notions, visit the cabaret and experience it for themselves.

PLACE FOR ADRENALINE JUNKIES

CAVE OF THE WINDS caveofthewinds.com

BRONZE: ASHLEY CORNELIUS | ashleycornelius.com (tie)

CAVE OF THE WINDS MOUNTAIN PARK IS HOME TO THE Terror-dactyl, a giant canyon swing that sends those brave enough to try it on a thrilling arc 180 feet into Williams Canyon — in less than four seconds. “It’s like a road runner and coyote cartoon as you’re tipping over, trading places with your face and your feet,” says Trip Uhalt, Cave of the Winds’ marketing and public relations manager. Visitors can also see stalagmites and stalactites on tours of the park’s caves. Local lore insists some of them are haunted.

BRONZE: ROMEO UNCAGED facebook.com/romeo.uncaged (tie)

SILVER: AHA! ESCAPE ROOM | ahaescapes.com

SILVER: JERRY RHODES | jerryrhodespottery.com

BRONZE: KAREN STANDRIDGE karenstandridgeartist.com (tie) 40

BRONZE: OVERDRIVE RACEWAY | overdriveraceway.com (tie) BRONZE: SKY ZONE | skyzone.com (tie)

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | ARTS, NEIGHBORHOOD & COMMUNITY

THANKS FOR YOUR VOTES! BRONZE STORE FOR SPIRITS BRONZE STORE FOR WINE

We carry one of the largest Beer, Wine and Liquor selections in the Springs at great prices!

FREE PARKING on the east-side of the building!

Courtesy The Burly Scouts; Steve Prue

475-8115 • 103 S WAHSATCH • WWW.DTNFSPIRITSANDWINES.COM

DANCE COMPANY

Located at the corner of Colorado and Wahsatch in Downtown Colorado Springs

YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR ART !

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US:

SILVER: Best Art Gallery

THE BURLY SCOUTS

BRONZE: Karen Standrige, Best Artist

Visit Gallery 113 for amazing, affordable, beautiful art created by our 17 local artists.

facebook.com/theBurlyScouts

GLITTER! FEATHERS! RHINESTONES! SPOTLIGHTS! THE BURLY Scouts entertain with all of that and more in their inclusive and education-based approach to burlesque. The club invites aspiring and seasoned performers to come together and create a community where they share their knowledge and hone their craft. They engage the community with the Burly Scouts Burlesque Camp for Beginners and have even started a scholarship program. Sparkling performances roll out at The Champagne Cabaret in Manitou Springs and La Burla Bee in Colorado Springs. Track Facebook for new performances!

SILVER: ORMAO DANCE COMPANY | ormaodance.org

719.634.5299 • 125 1/2 N. Tejon GALLERY113COS.COM

• PreviewsWorld Pullbox online ordering for new comics (scan QR code) • Join us Tuesdays 6:30 PM @ KaPowComicsLiveSales on Facebook

BRONZE: STRIPPED: A VALDEZ PRODUCTION vdez83.wixsite.com/strippedburlesque

• CGC and CBCS authorized dealer

WEDDING VENUE

HILLSIDE GARDENS hillsidecolorado.com

HILLSIDE GARDENS IS JUST MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN, but it feels like it’s in the mountains, beautiful with stunning views of Cheyenne Mountain. Co-owner Donavan Kennedy says the venue has a “sense of calming” that encourages guests to feel at home and make lasting memories. Most venues have package options for weddings, but at Hillside Gardens, couples can choose from a wider variety of caterers and florists. One of Hillside’s marquee attractions is Cactus Jack’s, a fully stocked tequila bar inside a lush greenhouse geodome. As well as weddings, Hillside welcomes anniversary parties and celebrations of life, and hosts a summer concert series.

THAN

K

YOU

Colo ra Sprin do gs!

Vote d Bes Comi c Sh t 5 tim op es

SILVER: THE PINERY AT THE HILL thepinery.com BRONZE: GARDEN OF THE GODS RESORT AND CLUB gardenofthegodsresort.com (tie) BRONZE: BRIARHURST MANOR ESTATE briarhurstdining.com (tie)

4239 N. NEVADA AVENUE 719.896.4376 · kapowcomicsandcoffee.com ARTS, NEIGHBORHOOD & COMMUNITY | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

41

42

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | ARTS, NEIGHBORHOOD & COMMUNITY

ESCAPE ROOM

AHA! ESCAPE ROOMS ahaescapes.com

IN THE BLIND TIGER PROHIBITION-THEMED ROOM, YOU’LL TRAVEL back to the Roaring ’20s to infiltrate a notorious speakeasy and gather evidence on crime kingpin Maximilian Malone. The Ripper unleashes a hair-raising 18-plus adventure in Victorian London that’s “not for the faint of heart.” Chocolate Factory is a nostalgic journey with a golden ticket. And coming soon is a mystery among island gods and cursed treasure in Shipwrecked – Skull Island! Co-owner Dawn Lingold started out setting up escape rooms for family and friends before founding Aha! Escape Rooms with her husband Ken. Lingold says Aha!’s fun themes set them apart, and they’re a great destination for birthday parties and team-building events. Tiered pricing means the more who play, the less you pay.

HOTEL

THE BROADMOOR broadmoor.com

SILVER: 21 KEYS ESCAPES | 21keysescapes.com

THE BROADMOOR HOLDS THE STREAK FOR THE LONgest-running Forbes five-star, AAA Five-Diamond Resort in the world. Nowhere else in Colorado Springs, heck Colorado, can you knock back a half-yard of beer (a 1½-foot-tall glass of Irish ale available at The Broadmoor’s Golden Bee gastropub), relax at a pink Himalayan salt-infused dry sauna, play award-winning golf courses and soak up the majestic views of Cheyenne Mountain and Pikes Peak, while staying in luxurious, family-friendly, pet-friendly accommodations.

BRONZE: CODEBUSTERS ESCAPE ROOM codebustersescaperoom.com

SILVER: KINSHIP LANDING | kinshiplanding.com BRONZE: THE ANTLERS, A WYNDHAM HOTEL | antlers.com ARTS, NEIGHBORHOOD & COMMUNITY | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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Out Loud inspires solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community and is a force for celebrating our collective humanity through song

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH UCC

20 E St Vrain Street www.outloudcsmc.com

INDOOR FAMILY FUN

SOCCERHAUS SPORTS & EVENTS CENTER soccerhauscs.com

BRING THE WHOLE GANG TO SOCCERHAUS AND PLAY INDOOR SOCcer, flag football, lacrosse and more. SoccerHaus has adult soccer leagues managed by experienced top-quality referees, who ensure a fun, safe environment. SoccerHaus also hosts multi-sport camps for kids and the Mighty Kicks youth soccer program in the winter months. Players and spectators can enjoy the Upper 90 Tavern at SoccerHaus, which features bratwurst, wings and delicious desserts. Additionally, the sports and events center can be rented out for special events, like birthday parties.

SILVER: GREAT WOLF LODGE | greatwolf.com BRONZE: URBAN AIR | urbanair.com

RUNNING CLUB

JACK QUINN’S RUNNING CLUB

jackquinnsrunners.com

SEE RARITIES

WORTH MILLIONS

HUNDREDS GATHER AT JACK QUINN’S IRISH PUB EVERY Tuesday and set out to run the streets of Downtown Colorado Springs. At first glance, a running club out of a pub might seem unusual, but running and drinking do have some similarities. “It’s more than a bar, it’s a public house,” said Michael Yowell, Jack Quinn’s Running Club’s president. Both running and drinking involve a strong sense of community. Jack Quinn’s Running Club brings “an interesting family” of friends together and gives them time to catch up while being active. And offering up cold beer after a long run doesn’t hurt their popularity either.

–IN MULTIPLE GALLERIES OF

CATERING COMPANY

FASCINATING EXHIBITS

PICNIC BASKET pbcatering.com

PICNIC BASKET CATERING IS ALL ABOUT PROVIDING A quality event experience that fits any budget. Picnic Basket doesn’t stop at providing high-quality food for events, the staff can help with every step of event planning and setup, including table-setting and bar services. Attention to detail separates Picnic Basket from other catering companies, according to Director of Sales Audri Piper. The company strives to make its services “client-specific,” by planning its food displays to match organizers’ themes and color schemes. Picnic Basket caters a wide variety of events, including weddings and corporate lunches.

Open to the public

10:30AM - 5 PM

SILVER: BUFFALO GALS | pbcatering.com (tie)

Tuesday-Saturday Closed Sunday & Monday

FREE PARKING

SILVER: FRONT RANGE BARBEQUE | frbbq.com (tie) Check out our Virtual Exhibits

BRONZE: SALAD OR BUST | saladorbust.com (tie) BRONZE: LUCHALS | eatluchals.com (tie)

SPECIAL EVENT VENUE

HILLSIDE GARDENS hillsidecolorado.com

MONEY.ORG/MONEY-MUSEUM 818 N. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80903

(next to the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College) 44

HILLSIDE GARDENS IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE P. 41.

SILVER: LA BURLA BEE laburlabee.com BRONZE: SOCCERHAUS SPORTS & EVENT CENTER soccerhauscs.com

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | ARTS, NEIGHBORHOOD & COMMUNITY

Courtesy SOAPDISH

SOCged by us also in the Haus, ts and

B

VERY lance, o have l, Jack sense riends d beer

LOCAL BAND

SOAPDISH

facebook.com/soapdishcoverband “AIN’T NO PARTY LIKE A SOAPDISH PARTY,” SAYS FRONTWOMAN Kristina Marshall. SOAPDISH has been rocking since 2008, and Marshall joined the group in 2016. Ever since, SOAPDISH has brought “high-energy, dance-party, feelgood” music to Colorado Springs crowds. They often play at Stargazers Theatre & Event Center, Peak 31 @ Union Station and Tony’s Downtown. Often performing in costume, SOAPDISH is all about fun music that makes their fans (SOAPIES, they call them) feel good. The aim, Marshall says: “Get people on the dance floor and never let them off.”

SILVER: SOFAKILLERS | facebook.com/sofakillers BRONZE: THE SHORT-T.E.R.M. | facebook.com/theshortterm

OUTDOOR FAMILY FUN

GARDEN OF THE GODS gardenofgods.com See p. 39.

GARDEN OF THE GODS IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER.

SILVER: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO | cmzoo.org BRONZE: TOPGOLF | topgolf.com

ARTS, NEIGHBORHOOD & COMMUNITY | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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Huge assortment of... furniture, home décor, antiques, collectibles, toys, gifts, jewelry, & crafts - in all styles: Shabby chic, Primitive, Midmod, French, Country, Modern, & more!

Thanks for your Votes!

Best Antique Store

If you can’t find it here, you can’t find it anywhere!

ANTIQUES · CRAFTS · COLLECTIBLES · FURNITURE

1815 North Academy Boulevard, Colorado Springs

719.596.8585 • AmericanClassicsMarketplace.com • Open Daily 10am-6pm

• original mixed media paintings • hand painted leather goods • greeting cards and art prints Stop by Gallery 113 downtown to see current work and creations from 16 other local artists!

terihomickart@gmail.com • 719.231.3574 terihomickart.com

Thank you Indy readers for voting us Best of Colorado Springs!

3500

NEW & PRE-OWNED VEHICLES TO CHOOSE FROM!

INCLUDING GAS, DIESEL, HYBRID & ELECTRIC! “Having Choices is the American Way!” Jay Cimino CEO, Phil Long Dealerships

48 Years of Service

PhilLong.com 46

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | SHOPPING & SERVICES

SHOPPING & SERVICES

TATTOO SHOP

WEST SIDE TATTOO westsidetattoo.net

IT’S SOMETHING OF AN OLD COLORADO CITY LANDmark for the eye-catching mural on its western wall, but more than that, West Side Tattoo is a creative sanctuary for aweinspiring ink. Photorealism, vibrant colors, intricate linework and realistic portraits — with more than 19 artists on staff, no style of skin art is off limits.

“It’s all about the client’s best interest,” says owner Brian Moore.

“We want to fit you with the right artist for the right design.”

Walk-ins are welcome or clients can visit West Side’s website to book an appointment online.

SILVER: AMERICAN BANNER TATTOOS americanbannertattoos.com BRONZE: CERTIFIED TATTOO STUDIOS certifiedtattoo.com

GROCERY STORE

KING SOOPERS kingsoopers.com

KANSAS CALLS IT DILLONS. IN CENTRAL MONTANA, IT’S SMITH’S FOOD and Drug. On the East Coast, it’s Kroger. And while “Kroger” serves as the header for the conglomerate, a nationwide array of enormous grocery stores, the people of King Soopers are not from Kroger’s headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio. The faces you see every week — from the cashiers to those behind the counters to the shoppers beside you in the aisles — are your Colorado Springs friends and neighbors. With roughly a dozen stores in the metropolitan area, it’s hard to find a better deal on food than the one King Soopers is offering just down the street.

SILVER: BREAD & BUTTER NEIGHBORHOOD MARKET breadandbuttermarket.com BRONZE: TRADER JOE’S | traderjoes.com SHOPPING & SERVICES | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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CHILD DAY CARE

Thanks to our hard-working team, our incredible customers and Indy readers for making us BEST OF 2023!

We’re proud to continue to serve our local community with excellence and dedication.

UCCS FAMILY DEVELOPMENT CENTER fdc.uccs.edu

IT’S A FAMILY. AT ITS CORE, THAT’S WHAT ANY DAY CARE SHOULD BE. But UCCS hosts more than a day care. At the university, it’s also a family development center. “We offer early childhood education and care for children 1 to 6 years old,” says Season Doebler-Matta, director. “And then we also offer a summer program for children that are 6 to 10.” As a part of the Student Affairs Division, UCCS Family Development Center works to ensure that “students have what they need on campus to be able to succeed.” This particular family really is tight knit, offering a child-to-adult ratio of three to one for 1-year-olds and five to one for preschoolers.

SILVER: FORT CARSON CHILD & YOUTH SERVICES carson.armymwr.com/CYS BRONZE: YMCA | ppymca.org CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

TERRA VERDE BOUTIQUE

COLORADO’S “LIKE NEW” FURNITURE STORE COLORADO’S “LIKE NEW” FAMILLY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1978 you for FURNITURE STORE your

Thank you for your Thank votes!

WWW.PLATTEFURNITURE.COM FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1978

WWW.PLATTEFURNITURE.COM

votes!

terraverdestyle.com

THERE REALLY IS NO ONE WAY TO LIVE THE COLORADO Springs lifestyle. Over the century and a half since the city’s founding, so many different kinds of people have worked to create the diverse, inimitable culture we enjoy.

So Terra Verde sells items for every lifestyle. “Our product varies from anything that you can beautifully decorate your home with to women’s clothing and shoes,” says part-owner Carrie Hibbard, “and we also have an amazing baby section.”

There’s no way to stop in for “just a moment” — you can try, but you’ll be drawn in by the nooks overflowing with gorgeous and eye-catching homewares, adorable gifts, stunning handmade jewelry (from Denver! Loveland! Spain!), a huge range of unique holiday decorations, hand-poured candles, loungewear, leather and vegan bags, bath and body products, even shoes. You’ll find yourself an hour and a store’s-length in before you know it. Terra Verde also supports the community, sponsoring meaningful events like Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Festival. So if you need an artisan beanie — best worn on the coldest hikes — handcrafted earrings — best worn for a night on the town — or a friendly face — best seen after a stroll Downtown — look no further than Terra Verde.

SILVER: MOUNTAIN STANDARD GOODS | mstgoods.com BRONZE: ECLECTIC CO. | shopeclecticco.com JEWELRY STORE Thank you for your votes

TERRA VERDE BOUTIQUE terraverdestyle.com

TERRA VERDE IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE ABOVE.

SILVER: LUISA GRAFF | luisagraffjewelers.com

We again want to thank the Colorado Springs cycling community for 47 years of support.

Your source for: Giant, LIV, Trek, Pivot, Surly, Electra, Momentum bicycles.

426 S Tejon St • (719) 475-8589 oldtownbikeshop.com 48

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | SHOPPING & SERVICES

BRONZE: JOHANNES HUNTER JEWELERS johanneshunter.com (tie) BRONZE: REVOLUTION JEWELRY WORKS revolutionjewelryworks.com (tie) STORE FOR FASHION ACCESSORIES

TERRA VERDE BOUTIQUE terraverdestyle.com

TERRA VERDE IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE ABOVE.

SILVER: ECLECTIC CO. | shopeclecticco.com BRONZE: CLAIRE’S | claires.com

PIERCING SHOP

THE HIVE

thehivepiercing.square.site S PR I N G S N ATI V E A N D OWN E R Dustin Bastian enjoyed chemistry, mathematics and biology in school. In his more than 20 years of experience in a profession where sterilization, gemstone composition, piercing angles and anatomy play a role, he found a way to meld these interests.

Dustin and his fellow piercers at The Hive embrace the opportunity to help clients express themselves through piercings.

The staff stay on top of current industry standards — including those through the Association of Professional Piercers — and pride themselves on counseling clients toward safe choices that are more than superficial.

SILVER: CERTIFIED TATTOO STUDIO | certifiedtattoo.com BRONZE: THE HOLEY GRAIL TATTOOING & BODY PIERCING tinyurl.com/TheHoleyGrail

ECLECTIC SHOP

AUTO REPAIR SHOP

ECLECTIC CO.

PHOENIX AUTO REPAIR

shopeclecticco.com

DRAWING FROM HER CORPORATE experience at Starbucks, Peri Bolts started Eclectic CO. in 2018 with a vision to empower local artists, foster conservation and bring people together. Between its Downtown and Old Colorado City locations, the company partners with around 150 local artists. The vendors include veterans and mothers, full-timers and hobbyists, all of whom help staff the stores. The arrangement lets artists engage with customers while selling a variety of clothing and handmade arts and crafts, including upcycled items.

Eclectic CO. sells unique things while bringing together a diverse group of people to support the community.

SILVER: MOUNTAIN STANDARD GOODS mstgoods.com BRONZE: TERRA VERDE terraverdestyle.com

phoenixautorepairco.com

RISING FROM THE PANDEMIC, RYAN MASTERSON and his wife Jen opened the shop in 2021. Drawing from his experience as a mechanic working on everything from cars to heavy machinery, Ryan provides comprehensive interior repair services, excluding transmission and engine rebuilds.

He strives to honestly “provide the news” for customers, equipping them with the necessary information to make good decisions. He sees his success as an extension of how he prioritizes his employees and customers. While Phoenix is a nod to his journey overcoming drug and alcohol addiction in the past, it also fittingly represents his repair work in the present.

SILVER: CHRISTIAN BROTHERS AUTOMOTIVE | cbac.com BRONZE: HONEST ACCURATE AUTO SERVICE | honestaccurateauto.com

SHOPPING & SERVICES | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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We would like to thank our loyal customers, and everyone who nominated and voted for us.

It means the world.

We do everything, from oil changes to engine swaps.

We are a one stop shop for all of your automotive needs.

1125 Pecan Street (719) 473-0900 phoenixautorepairco.com

35 Years of Gratitude!

Picnic Basket Best Caterer

GOLD!

Buffalo Gals Best Caterer

www.pbcatering.com

719.635.0200

SILVER!

Thank you for letting us share life’s special events with you.

50

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | SHOPPING & SERVICES

BIKE SHOP

CRITERIUM BICYCLES criterium.com

AT CRITERIUM BICYCLES , IT’S ALL about the ride. Established in 1973, Criterium offers expert fitting, sales, service and rentals — meaning beginner or pro, you’ll be hitting the trails in no time. From children’s bicycles to full-suspension mountain bikes, you can stop in for a quick tire fix or get a fully customized setup, all with the expert guidance of their friendly and knowledgeable staff. Or rent a bike and take a ride on the conveniently located New Santa Fe Regional Trail, located right behind the building.

SILVER: OLD TOWN BIKE SHOP oldtownbikeshop.com BRONZE: TED’S BICYCLES tedsbicycles.com

STORE FOR MUSIC

VETERINARY CLINIC

THE LEECHPIT

PIKES PEAK VETERINARY CLINIC

leechpit.com (tie)

OWNER ADAM LEECH GREW up buying Garbage Pail Kids cards at a 7-Eleven and spinning his parents’ records at home. Over the past 20 years, he’s channeled this love for music and collectibles into a successful business. The store’s music selection mixes the pull of nostalgia with the shine of the present. From hip-hop and pop to rock ’n’ roll and country, the store’s extensive vinyl collection proves how, even in a digital society, a hunger for the tangible persists. “A record is a permanent piece of history,” says Leech, and this desire for a physical connection remains as strong as ever.

INDEPENDENT RECORDS Permanently closed (tie)

pikespeakvet.com

THE RABBIT IS SICK. THE DOG ATE ALL THE HALLOWEEN CANDY. THE BEARDED DRAGON has been a little bit moody recently. The snake swallowed your LEGO Death Star and has taken on the shape and malleability of a soccer ball. “We have different doctors that specialize in each of those species and are super passionate about their education and care for those species,” says Kathy Winkler, practice manager at Pikes Peak Veterinary Clinic. For Winkler and the entire team, it’s not just about the exotic animals — it’s about “establishing strong relationships” with clients and their pets no matter how many legs your furry friend might have.

SILVER: WESTSIDE ANIMAL HOSPITAL | westsideanimalhospital.com BRONZE: BIJOU ANIMAL HOSPITAL | bijouanimalhospital.com (tie) BRONZE: HIGH COUNTRY VETERINARY HOSPITAL | highcountryvetco.com (tie) THRIFT STORE

FLORIST

THE ARC

PLATTE FLORAL platteflorist.com

arcthrift.com

OPENED BY ORVILLE AND LEWIS LAMbert to bring music to those in the military, Independent Records has been a fixture among musicians and fans for 45 years, supporting artists locally and in Denver. With downsizing over recent years and the recent passing of one of its owners, the business closed its doors for the last time Sept. 30. Looking back on her 14 years at Independent, manager Hollie Sherwood is thankful for the consistent community support and recalls fondly the ways music brings people together. “It’s hard to put into words,” she says. “It’s been like family.”

IT’S NOT UNCOMMON FOR ORGANIzations to market themselves as supporters of one cause or another. But for The Arc, their dedication to the mission isn’t a paper pledge. “We exist to generate revenue to fund The Arc chapters in the state of Colorado,” says Susan Hubbard, district manager for the nonprofit’s south stores.

The Arc works to “provide services and advocacy for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities.”

And the money generated by the four stores in Colorado Springs — along with the funds from the other 34 stores in Colorado — doesn’t leave the state.

MORE THAN A CENTURY AND T WO owners on from its founding, Platte Floral and current longtime owner Dianna Tolbert continue to beautify Colorado Springs. In addition to flowers, the shop offers a variety of green and flowering plants, kept fresh in the 4,800-squarefoot greenhouse. Platte Floral also offers gift options including candy, greeting cards and plush stuffed animals while providing delivery to local hospitals, funeral homes, mortuaries and more while offering same-day delivery options.

The family-owned business also sells an assortment of patio furniture and decorative artwork, including ceramics and glassware.

SILVER: WHAT’S LEFT RECORDS whatsleftrec.com

SILVER: GOODWILL OF SOUTHERN COLORADO | goodwillcolorado.org

SILVER: SWEETWATER FLOWER MARKET sweetwaterflowermarket.com

BRONZE: ENTERTAINMART entertainmart.com

BRONZE: LEECHPIT RECORDS & VINTAGE leechpit.com

BRONZE: SKYWAY CREATIONS skywaycreations.com

SHOPPING & SERVICES | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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AUTO/TRUCK NEW

PHIL LONG DEALERSHIPS phillong.com

SINCE ITS FOUNDING IN 1945, PHIL LONG HAS GROWN TO 20 locations and over 1,200 employees in Colorado Springs and across the state, offering a broad range of used and new car brands while working with lenders to save customers money. Throughout its history, the company has worked beyond the showroom to serve the community, from providing on-site employee wellness and health services to outreach through its affiliation with Mt. Carmel Veterans Center. “The thing I’m proudest about… is our annual United Way Employee Giving Campaign… our level of giving is greater than it’s ever been,” says Executive VP and partner Kevin Shaughnessy. When asked what one should look for in a car dealership, Kevin points to reviews, reputation and ownership. “When you are locally owned, your responsibility is to your customers … your employees and to your community. We’re able to align our interests with our customers’.”

SILVER: HEUBERGER MOTORS | bestbuysubaru.com BRONZE: TOYOTA OF COLORADO SPRINGS toyotaofcoloradosprings.com 52

FUR BABY SERVICES

HOUSE OF HOUNDS GROOMING facebook.com/HouseofHoundsGrooming

Shop i board Wit the sta dedica “I th says U “It’s have,”

SILV

SILV

FOR OVER 12 YEARS, JENNA KEMPTON HAS BEEN GROOMINGBRO dogs, the last seven of those years in Colorado Springs. “Dog grooming can kind of bring out the worst in dogs,” she says, comparing the experience with humans at the dentist. “I try to make it as calm as possible,” she says, adding that she takes care of one dog at a time and pays particular attention to not overcutting the nails. The secret to her success with dogs: “I kind of just want them to be my friend and the rest falls into place,” she says.

SILVER: SOGGY DOGGIES | soggydoggiesgrooming.com BRONZE: THE FUROLOGIST, CERTIFIED HOLISTIC PET GROOMING & CANINE ESTHETICS | thefurologistpetgrooming.com (tie) BRONZE: PLAYTIME PET SITTERS & DOG WALKERS playtimepetsitters.com (tie)

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | SHOPPING & SERVICES

See lef

SILV stree

BRO

COMIC SHOP

KAPOW COMICS & COFFEE kapowcomicsandcoffee.com

YOU M IG HT R E M E M B E R M A RTI N DAV I DSON , NOW A 30-year resident of Colorado Springs, from your days as a student at Palmer High School. When the bell rang and it was time to hit the comic book store in search of the newest releases, it might have been surprising to find your science teacher standing next to you in line. Well, the years have gone by and, for those who haven’t kept in touch, you may be surprised to find Davidson opened his very own comic book shop in 2016. According to Davidson, KaPow Comics & Coffee brings “something new, something a little bit different” to the world of graphic novels and collectibles — and the store prides itself on “not only great coffee, but an atmosphere which the entire family can enjoy.”

SILVER: ESCAPE VELOCITY COMICS & GRAPHIC NOVELS escapevelocitycomics.com BRONZE: MUSE COMICS + GAMES | musecomicscolorado.com

BACKCOUNTR MOUNT ALS

OUTDOOR OUTFITTER

REI

rei.com FROM A SHELF AT A SEATTLE COOPERATIVE GROCERY store in 1938 to a national retail chain today, Recreational Equipment Inc. offers a wide range of products to help you embrace the outdoors, or, at the very least, look the part. It also hosts local classes and provides rental equipment, while contributing to a variety of conservation and nonprofit initiatives. REI carries new and used adult and children’s clothing, gear for hiking, camping, climbing, cycling, travel, water and snow sports — the essentials, yes, but also those items that you never knew you needed.

CO LO R A D O S P R I N G S

719.633.0732 | MTNCHALET.COM | 15 N Nevada

SILVER: MOUNTAIN CHALET | mtnchalet.com BRONZE: SCHEELS | scheels.com

theskishopinc.com

T! OR

THE SKI SHOP INC.

TH A

PLACE TO BUY SKIS AND SNOWBOARDS

U FOR YOUR SU O Y PP K N

WHEN THE UHL FAMILY TOOK OWNERSHIP OF THE SKI Shop in 1981, they knew they wanted to bring their passion for skiing and snowboarding to the Colorado Springs community.

With more than 6,000 square feet of equipment for sale and to rent (not to mention the state-of-the-art tuning and repair shop), Ski Shop owner Rick Uhl and his staff are dedicated to providing great service in a fun atmosphere.

“I think that every employee has more fun at work than anywhere else, and it shows, says Uhl. “We like what we do! After all, if it’s not fun it’s actually work.

“It’s really cool that 71 years later we can be successful and have the following we have,” he says. “It brings such honor to everything we do.”

SILVER: CHRISTY SPORTS SKI & PATIO | christysports.com (tie) SILVER: MOUNTAIN CHALET | mtnchalet.com (tie) BRONZE: EPIC MOUNTAIN GEAR | epicmountaingear.com AUTO/TRUCK USED

PHIL LONG DEALERSHIPS phillong.com See left.

We will put our heart into every piece, large or small, and we are proud to have served Colorado Springs for over 18 years.

PHIL LONG DEALERSHIPS IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER.

SILVER: STREET SMART AUTO BROKERS streetsmartautobrokers.com BRONZE: CARMAX | carmax.com

SEE OUR WORK AND BOOK AN APPOINTMENT HERE:

(719) 735-5455 • 2031 W. COLORADO AVE, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80904 SHOPPING & SERVICES | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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BOOKSTORE

POOR RICHARD’S BOOKSTORE poorrichardsdowntown.com

IT’S DIFFICULT TO KNOW EXACTLY HOW MANY STOries start in Poor Richard’s. Across the array of bookshelves filled with volumes both new and used, there are thousands of different doorways to riveting adventures. But you’ll also find unique gifts and greeting cards which could start two acquaintances on the path to a storied friendship. Even a conversation with Poor Richard’s friendly staff might provide an opportunity for the beginning of something special. And the office just above the shop, now occupied by founder Richard Skorman, once was the workspace of Colorado Springs Independent co-founder, John Weiss. Who knows what stories you’ll begin at Poor Richard’s.

SILVER: HOOKED ON BOOKS facebook.com/hookedonbookscoloradosprings (tie) SILVER: BARNES & NOBLE barnesandnoble.com (tie) SILVER: TATTERED COVER tatteredcover.com | Springs location permanently closed (tie) BRONZE: WESTSIDE STORIES bookshop.org/shop/westsidestories VAPE SHOP

CHIEF VAPOR

ANTIQUE STORE

AMERICAN CLASSICS MARKETPLACE americanclassicsmarketplace.com

BEFORE YOU SEE THE RANGE OF PRODUCTS AND EXPLORE THE DÉCOR, BEFORE you smile back at managing partner Gary Brookshire, you might stand outside American Classics Marketplace and wonder if you’ve gone to the wrong place. The store, from the parking lot, doesn’t look like your usual antique shop. According to Brookshire, that’s very intentional. “The word ‘emporium’ is the thing I’ve been emphasizing,” he says. The business is inside an old furniture store and it offers a unique mix of items both old and new, used and untouched. “If we don’t have a million unique items, Brookshire says, “we’re pretty close.”

SILVER: SWEET WILLIAM ANTIQUE MALL | sweetwilliamantiquemall.com BRONZE: PLATTE FURNITURE | plattefurniture.com

chiefvapor.com

STARTED IN 2015 AND NOW WITH SIX LOCAtions in Colorado Springs, Chief Vapor sells a variety of disposable and refillable vaping products. Chief also has a rewards program, conducts charity and clothing drives with their customers, and recently started a college scholarship program for community members. Manager Ashley Walker believes Chief’s customer service is what sets it apart. “We want to do right by our customers,” she says.

SILVER: VAPOR SOURCE instagram.com/vaporsource (tie) SILVER: ELEV8 GLASS GALLERY elev8glassgallery.com (tie) BRONZE: MYXED UP CREATIONS myxedup.com (tie) BRONZE: SMOKER CITY facebook.com/smokercityemporium (tie)

ADULT STORE

MOTORCYCLE/MOTORSPORTS DEALER

FASCINATIONS

APEX SPORTS

fascinations.net

apexsportsinc.com

WHEN COLORADANS ARE FEELING FRISKY, THEY KNOW they can always go to Fascinations and explore their sensual selection of lingerie, apparel and other adult-oriented products. Curious consenters can swing by and explore the ever-expanding collection of things that go buzz in the night.

“We are proud to be the best in Colorado Springs. We strive to separate ourselves through our education and customer service and pride ourselves in having an open and inviting atmosphere,” says store manager Arthur Gallegos. “We are always making sure to provide the best quality products.”

HONDA, KAWASAKI, YAMAHA, SUZUKI, KTM, BETA, CHAMPIon Trikes and trailers — Apex Sports has everything you need to get out on the road.

Their full-service repair shop works with most makes of ATVs, motorcycles, scooters and utility vehicles, all while you peruse their selection of the newest riding gear and accessories.

Locally owned and family-operated since 1960, Apex prides itself on treating everyone like family, and their professional and knowledgeable staff is always just a phone call (or email) away. Adventure is calling. Enjoy the ride.

SILVER: HUSTLER HOLLYWOOD | hustlerhollywood.com (tie) SILVER: ROMANTIX | romantix.com (tie)

SILVER: PIKES PEAK HARLEY-DAVIDSON pikespeakharleydavidson.com BRONZE: PIKES PEAK INDIAN MOTORCYCLE pikespeakindianmotorcycle.com

BRONZE: SEDUCTIONS | seductionsonline.com 54

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | SHOPPING & SERVICES

We Appreciate Your

tes! o V GOLD

PAINTING CONTRACTOR

FAMILY-OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 2006 Our services include whole-home interiors and exteriors, multi-family buildings, large-scale commercial projects, deck staining, cabinet painting, fence painting and staining and much more.

Call to Schedule a Complimentary Estimate

(719) 574-3018 • AMCPAINTING.COM

A place for

EPIC WINS

We’re Proud to be Among the Best in Our Community At Banning Lewis Ranch, we believe that every family deserves only the best space to play, explore, and grow. With over 75 acres of parks and trails, we offer just that. Inspiring moments of new friends and endless adventures. Welcome to a place where your neighbors become family, family, and where the amenities are only outmatched by the memories.

A place for life’s moments.

BanningLewisRanch.com SHOPPING & SERVICES | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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HOME & GARDEN

INTERIOR DESIGN AND DÉCOR

TURK INTERIORS turkinteriors.com

THIS BOUTIQUE INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM OFFERS A variety of services for improving any type of space. “We are a full-service firm, but we cater to residential remodels, and we do everything from interior selections to furniture to window treatments and 3D renderings,” says owner Tricia Turk.

“We make it very personalized. We work very closely with the homeowners and the contractors.”

Turk Interiors can also create custom items — like furniture or window treatments. “If they can dream it, most likely, we can work to have it realized,” Turk says. “We work with fabulous trade vendors and tradesmen here in the city.”

SILVER: SENGER DESIGN GROUP sengerdesigngroup.com BRONZE: ANN SALTZGIVER, SALTZGIVER DESIGNS | saltzgiverdesigns.com 56

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | HOME & GARDEN

SUSTAINABLE/ENVIRONMENTAL HOME IMPROVEMENT COMPANY

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY RESTORE pikespeakhabitat.org

PIKES PEAK HABITAT FOR HUMANITY IS A NONPROFIT THAT “BRINGS PEOple together to build homes, communities, and hope,” partnering with families and their neighbors to provide affordable homeownership and home repair solutions.

Focusing on “building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter,” the organization provides numerous services to help anyone improve their housing situation. The ReStores — an extension of Habitat for Humanity — are retail home improvement and construction stores that also function as donation and recycling centers. They sell new and gently used building materials, appliances, home accessories and furniture at a fraction of retail price.

SILVER: TUMBLEWEED TINY HOUSE COMPANY tumbleweedhouses.com

ROOFING COMPANY

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

GOLD garden supply/nursery & SILVER store for houseplants!

TRITON ROOFING & SOLAR

tritonroofing.com

TRITON’S CERTIFIED PROFESSIONALS ARE EQUIPPED TO handle virtually any residential or commercial roofing, solar installation and lightning protection project. The company’s focus is on offering a hassle-free experience and meeting the highest standards — founders Justin Baker and Todd Dorpinghaus launched Triton because, having worked in the roofing industry, they’d seen “distinctive patterns in poor customer service and product support.” Their aim is to “far exceed any expectations” for all residential or commercial roofing projects.

Since 2009, the family-owned company has been on the forefront of solar technology and its team is happy to teach people about the environmental and financial benefits of adding solar panels to their homes.

SILVER: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ROOFING cheyennemtnroofing.com BRONZE: RELIABLE ROOFING SYSTEMS | myhappyroof.com

• Perennials & annuals • Trees, shrubs, & grasses • Tropical houseplants, cacti & succulents • Vegetable, flower & wildflower seeds • Unique gifts & fountains • Gardening tools • Custom organic fertilizers WE CARRY LOCAL RAW HONEY!

H MILITARY DISCOUNTS H 1827 W Uintah St • 719.632.8491 • www.ricksgarden.com Thanks for voting us

BEST VET CLINIC!

FLOORING COMPANY

OSUNA HARDWOODS LLC tinyurl.com/Osuna-hardwoods

OSUNA HARDWOODS OWNER LARS OSUNA WILL TELL YOU about his passion for flooring, though you can see it in the stunning images of finished rooms and reels of projects-in-progress on his Facebook page. “With close to a decade of experience, learning from one of the best flooring companies around, I am here to help make your dream floor come true with my own services,” he says. “From remodel to new construction, we can work together and make anything happen!”

SILVER: FLOOR CRAFT | floorcraft.us

FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1948!

Pikes Peak Veterinary Clinic

We are committed to providing the best care for your pets while supporting our community!

• Preventative Care • Surgery & Radiology • Dental Care ACCREDITED The Standard of Veterinary Excellence

Locally owned for 50+ years!

719.475.1747

1813 N. Union Blvd. • pikespeakvet.com M-F 7:30-5:30 • Sat. 8-12

BRONZE: LL FLOORING | llflooring.com HVAC COMPANY

WIRENUT HOME SERVICES thewirenut.com

WIRENUT IS A SEVEN-TIME RECORD HOLDER FOR BBB OF Southern Colorado’s Excellence in Customer Service award. The near 20-year-old company services everything electrical, HVAC or plumbing, and calls itself a “complete home service company.”

Family owned and Colorado proud, WireNut regularly engages with the community through monthly donations to various charities and Secret Santa shopping around town (when they surprise people by paying for their shopping carts around Christmas).

They boast quick and efficient work as well as eco-friendly practices and equipment, and also offer financing options and lifetime workmanship guarantees.

SILVER: AFFORDABLE PLUMBING, HEAT & ELECTRICAL affordableplumbingandheat.com

PARKEY’S HEATING, PLUMBING & AIR RE BRONZE: CONDITIONING | parkeysco.com

PEOd their

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

WIRENUT HOME SERVICES

zation res — thewirenut.com stores WIRENUT HOME SERVICES IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. ilding See above.

SILVER: TEK ELECTRIC | tekelectricalservices.com BRONZE: GADDIE ELECTRIC | gaddieelectric.com HOME & GARDEN | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS

OAK LEAF CONSTRUCTION oakleafcos.com

“AS GENERAL CONTRACTORS, WE CAN TAKE CARE OF YOUR HOME from the foundation to the roof,” says Oak Leaf Construction’s co-founder Vanessa Redmond.

Since 2015, Redmond has owned the company with her husband Bruce; both bring deep construction expertise from a lifetime in the field. The construction company specializes in additions, remodels and outdoor living spaces. And, Redmond says, Oak Leaf prides itself on legal, ethical and quality work.

“The things that we love to do are remodels. So, kitchens and bathrooms, along with building decks, because we like to create those dream spaces,” Redmond says.

“For some folks, those dream spaces are indoors in their kitchens and their bathrooms,” she says. “For others, it’s an outdoor space and really loving the outdoors here that we have in Colorado.”

They’re excited to offer free estimates and a new website that they hope will encourage interaction in the community.

SILVER: TURK INTERIORS | turkinteriors.com BRONZE: SENGER DESIGN GROUP | sengerdesigngroup.com 58

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | HOME & GARDEN

GARDEN SUPPLY/NURSERY

RICK’S GARDEN CENTER ricksgarden.com

SINCE 1948, RICK’S GARDEN CENTER HAS BEEN A FAMily-owned business. The full-service nursery offers trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, vegetables, herbs, houseplants, seeds, bulbs, pottery, soil, and all things pest control and gardenware. “We have an extensive nursery as well as the garden center and a very knowledgeable staff. Most of our staff has gone through the Colorado State Extension Master Gardener program,” says owner Dan Hopper.

“We have registered arborists in the nursery. And we have great customer service.

“We’re also making more improvements to the property,” he says, “hoping to expand customer services and work on parking and customer access.”

SILVER: PHELAN GARDENS | phelangardens.com BRONZE: GOOD EARTH GARDEN CENTER Permanently closed

Thanks for voting us GOLD

Store for Houseplants

Bring Life to Your Home Plants, ceramics, home decor, and more!

15% OFF with this coupon

The Living Room

DOWNTOWN 22 E. Rio Grande St. NORTHGATE 12229 Voyager Pkwy. #100

TheLivingRoomPlants.com

Thank you for your support!

USED FURNITURE

PLATTE FURNITURE plattefurniture.com

FAMILY-OWNED AND -OPERATED SINCE 1978, PLATTE FURNIture still carries its renowned vintage and antique stock, but the store is starting to branch out to include more modern, high-end furniture — keeping it all at an affordable price. “We’re getting more and more higher-end, liquidation, online returns or just overstock, so we’re doing more of that so that we can stay relevant,” says Kyle Kelly, chief operating officer and son of founder Dick Kelly.

“I feel like really the best is yet to come. The store is going to be so fun — and the quality of furniture is going to get better than it ever has.”

GOLD Interior Design SILVER Kitchens & Bathrooms

SILVER: THE ARC | arcthrift.com BRONZE: HABITAT FOR HUMANITY RESTORE pikespeakhabitat.org/restore

719.445.2119 • 2727 N. Cascade #160 • turkinteriors.com HOME & GARDEN | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

59

WINDOWS AND DOORS

RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN cswindowreplacement.com

FOR 120 YEARS, THE ANDERSEN NAME HAS BEEN TRUSTED in the window and door industry. Renewal by Andersen — the replacement division of the Anderson Corporation — has grown into one of the largest companies in its field.

It has markets all over the country, including all along the Front Range.

Renewal by Andersen offers a wide variety of window options along with entry and patio doors. The company proudly installs energy-efficient designs, and focuses on climate-neutral performance and solid, secure construction. Renewal by Andersen regularly offers promotions and is currently running a $10,000 sweepstakes for upgrading windows and doors.

SILVER: WINDOW WORLD windowworldsocolorado.com BRONZE: PELLA WINDOWS & DOORS OF COLORADO SPRINGS | pella.com PAINTING CONTRACTOR

AMC PAINTING amcpainting.com

Opening Doors to Your Dream Home!

Locally owned and operated Low rates/Fast Closings

Call today for a complimentary credit analysis and consultation

719-308-1620 NMLS# 1649074

AMC PAINTING COULD LITERALLY PAINT THE TOWN RED IF we needed them to. Specializing in both residential and commercial buildings, AMC can help with all painting needs.

The business started in 2006 as a small operation to fund college for founders Chad and Matt Cordova and has since grown into a large company that paints hundreds of houses across the Springs each year, alongside multiple commercial projects.

Customer reviews praise AMC for their quality work and their customer service.

The company provides free estimates and regularly offers promotions. They also provide wood staining and power-washing services.

SILVER: GREG UNSETH PAINTING & EXTERIORS gregunsethpainting.com PLUMBING

ELECTRICAL

HEAT & AC

BRONZE: MARKHAM PAINTING facebook.com/MarkhamPainting DECK BUILDER

OAK LEAF CONSTRUCTION

99

$

oakleafcos.com

Drain Cleaning Single Line

D-DC1-PROMO

See p. 58.

Expires 12/31/2023

Thank you for voting us Best Of in Electrical and HVAC 2 years in a row!

79 TUNE UP

$

FURNACE

OR AIR CONDITIONER H-ACTUNE79-PROMO H-FNTUNE79-PROMO Expires 12/31/2023

SILVER: UPRIGHT OUTDOOR LIVING uprightoutdoorliving.com BRONZE: FRONT RANGE SIDING & WINDOWS LLC frontrangesidingandwindows.com

79 REPLACE

$

REMODELING CONTRACTOR

Outlet or Switch Standard 120v Device Limit Two Per Household Non Specialty Only ROS79

Expires 12/31/2023

55OFF

$

CALL or text (719) 623-2975 book online theWirenut.com

Whole Home Duct Cleaning CPN55

OAK LEAF CONSTRUCTION oakleafcos.com See p. 58.

OAK LEAF CONSTRUCTION IS A MULTIPLE AWARD WINNER.

SILVER: BORDNER HOME SOLUTIONS bordnercolorado.com

Expires 12/31/2023

Locally Owned & Not a Franchise

60

OAK LEAF CONSTRUCTION IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER.

See website for details of our Lifetime Workmanship Guarantee

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | HOME & GARDEN

BRONZE: ALPINE CONTRACTING alpine-contracting.com

STORE FOR HOUSEPLANTS

THE LIVING ROOM thelivingroomplants.com

“NO ONE HAS A GREEN THUMB,” THE LIVING ROOM will tell you, “they are just buying the right plants!” And The Living Room’s staff will help find the right plants for you. “We are honest with customers, so we try to help pick out the plants that fit the care that our customers are comfortable with,” says manager Mabel Young. This local favorite offers houseplants from the familiar to the exotic, alongside decorative pots, soils, amendments — and plenty of expertise. The staff loves to troubleshoot and offer plant advice for customers. “We try to maintain a relationship with our customers,” Young says, “even after they purchase their plants.”

SILVER: RICK’S GARDEN CENTER ricksgarden.com BRONZE: PHELAN GARDENS phelangardens.com

HARDWARE STORE

ACE HARDWARE acehardware.com

ACE HARDWARE HAS LONG BEEN RECOGNIZED FOR ITS CUSTOMER service in home improvement retail. “The helpful place” has earned numerous J.D. Power recognitions with the highest ranking for customer satisfaction as well as Gold awards from Indy readers over the years.

Ace sells an array of home improvement items and tools alongside everything from camping equipment to cleaning products to garden supplies, not to mention specialty hardware. Ace will even help you if you buy a new grill and need it assembled, or if you need handyman services at home.

SILVER: HOME DEPOT | homedepot.com BRONZE: LOWE’S | lowes.com HOME & GARDEN | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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HEALTH & WELLNESS DAY SPA

VEDA SALON & SPA coloradoveda.com

YOU SEE VEDA ALL OVER — NORTH ACADEMY, UNIversity Village, Creekwalk — but it’s not a franchise. Veda is owned by a local family who also work in the business and pride themselves on “a culture of love, connection and community.” General Manager Amy Beechwood, who’s been with Veda for 18 of its 21 years, says education is “one of the cornerstones of the company,” meaning their highly trained team of professionals can bring you the latest and best in hair treatments, highlights, balayage and cuts as well as massage, facials, body wraps and spa packages. You’ll also find manicures, pedicures and nail treatments, bridal services... You get it, the list goes on. Above and beyond the technical excellence, they’ll make you feel at home.

SILVER: BEAUTY BAR | beautybar-inc.com BRONZE: GENESIS MEDSPA | genesis-medspa.com IN-HOME CARE PROVIDER

GENTLE SHEPHERD HOME CARE gentleshepherdhomecare.com

K ATHY MILLER, CO-FOUNDER OF GENTLE SHEPHERD HOME Care, was once in your shoes: confused, scared and struggling with the task of finding trusted care for her loved one, from thousands of miles away. Inspired by this experience, she and her husband Scott started Gentle Shepherd to “hold [your] hand and walk the journey with [you.]” They have a staff with heart, offering qualified and compassionate in-home care and recovery care for seniors and the chronically ill. “You’re entering people’s lives; it’s such a delicate time,” says Kathy, “and to be able to really love them through that and help their loved ones, it’s just a real gift.”

SILVER: THE INDEPENDENCE CENTER theindependencecenter.org

BARBERSHOP

SUNDAY BARBER CO. sundaybarberco.com

WORD ON THE STREET IS “MULLETS ARE CRAZY POPULAR,” AND THE professionals at Sunday Barber Co. will give you the haircut, beard trim, waxing, fade, color, shave or, yes, mullet of your dreams — whatever that dream looks like. “This place is about being whoever you want to be and making connections with like-minded people who just want to make you look awesome,” owner and barber Kai Hong says of Sunday Barber’s aims and origins, “and more importantly — make you feel like a million bucks with whatever haircut you want.” Everyone at the LGBTQ+ friendly barbershop works hard to keep it a safe space for all, Kai says, and the laid-back vibe will have you looking forward to your next cut. “I really wanted to create that little bit of magic that happens in a chair for everyone.” And now with two locations — Sunday Barber South opened Downtown in September — that magic is making its way through the Springs.

SILVER: FLOYD’S BARBERSHOP | floydsbarbershop.com BRONZE: LINCOLN ST. BARBERS | lincolnstbarbers.com 62

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | HEALTH & WELLNESS

BRONZE: AMADA SENIOR CARE amadaseniorcare.com/colorado-springs-senior-care DOCTOR (M.D./D.O.)

DR. LISA JENKS

genesis-medspa.com/meet-dr-lisa-jenks DR. LISA JENKS IS OWNER AND MEDICAL DIRECTOR at Genesis MedSpa — another Gold winner (see p. 65) — which she opened in 2007. Dr. Jenks began her career in emergency medicine and was an ER doctor for 17 years before transitioning to medical dermatology and aesthetics. Nationally recognized for her work in the medical aesthetics field and as a trusted trainer, she serves on Skin Inc. magazine’s advisory board and is also co-founder at DermAesthetic Consulting, where she shares her expertise with other physicians. Dr. Jenks guides the Genesis MedSpa team in providing medical-grade aesthetic services, with great success — the medspa has won Better Business Bureau’s coveted “Excellence in Customer Service” award three times. Dr. Jenks focuses on accessibility, and educating and informing patients so that they’re empowered to make the best decisions about their health needs.

SILVER: DR. RACHAEL DEGURSE mvmg.com/content/rachael-degurse-md BRONZE: GINA BAMBERGER uchealth.org/provider/gina-c-bamberger-do-family-medicine

A Total New You Salon & Medi-Spa

Thanks for voting us BRONZE - HAIR SALON!

We appreciate your support!

The finest in Hair, Nails, Massage, Skin Care & Laser Hair Removal 975 Garden of the Gods Rd #A 719-528-8511 www.atnysalon.com Call today for a free consultation or to book an appointment!

DENTAL PRACTICE

THE DOWNTOWN DENTIST thedowntowndentistcs.com ANOTHER YEAR, ANOTHER GOLD FOR THE CONVENIENTLY located and appropriately named Downtown Dentist. Dr. Julia Rohleder opened her practice in the early 2000s. Since then, she has welcomed Dr. Rodolfo Burgos and Dr. Rachel Espinoza, building a practice on Tejon Street that melds “old-fashioned hometown concern for people” with the latest advances in preSCHEDULE EYE EXAM ventative, restorative and cosmeticYOUR services. For those without TODAY insurance, the practice offers a cash-based membership and will soon be opening another ABBAEYECARE.COM | 719-257-2713 office at 218 E. Willamette Ave. While Dr. Rohleder is always excited to bring new services and techniques to her practice, she says there’s no substitute for really knowing and listening to her longstanding patients, so she can help them make the best decisions about their care.

SILVER: COMFORT DENTAL – POWERS comfortdental.com/office/co-south-powers BRONZE: WEST ONE FAMILY DENTAL westonefamilydental.com

USE YOUR VISION BENEFITS BEFORE

DECEMBER 31

SCHEDULE YOUR EYE EXAM TODAY ABBAEYECARE.COM | 719-257-2713 *Requires purchase of a complete prescription pair, including frame and lenses. Does not include Barton Perreira, Cartier, Cazal, Chanel, Cutler and Gross, Dior, Dita Lancier, Fendi, Gucci, ic!Berlin, l.a. Eyeworks, Maui Jim, Michael Kors, Nifties, Oakley, Oliver Peoples, Persol, Ray-Ban, Robert Marc, Silhouette, Tiffany & Co., Tom Ford, WOOW, accessories, contact lenses, or medical procedures. Cannot be combined with any other discounts, promotions, or insurance plans. Not valid on previous orders. Other restrictions may apply. See practice for full details. Offer valid 9/25/2023 - 12/31/2023. 23AEG-620369

HEALTH & WELLNESS | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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YOGA

CAMBIO YOGA cambioyoga.com

EVERYTHING LEADS BACK TO YOGA — AND CAMBIO Yoga invites everyone to get involved. With their commitment to inclusive yoga and their donation model, they’re changing what it means to be a yogi, from silence and introspection to a grassroots, community-based project. “It’s more than just this place to go and breathe and make shapes with [people’s] bodies,” says Cambio co-founder Amber Richman. “It’s a place to connect with other people, to really feel welcome and invited.” Established in 2009, Cambio’s innovative model has not only survived, but thrived with rave reviews of their classes, instructors and offerings (beginner to advanced). And now there’s a second studio. Get your om on...

SILVER: PRAXIS | praxisyoga.com BRONZE: BALANCED STUDIO | 719-602-4494 (tie) BRONZE: HOT ON YOGA | hotonyoga.com (tie) CHIROPRACTOR

all abo tors an body s enviro are wr boykinchiropractic.com ent th THE PROFESSIONALS AT BOYKIN CHIROPRACTIC AIM TOprodu “restore your body to its natural state of optimal health and perfor-compr mance.” The family business was founded 30 years ago, and today Dr. Austin R. Boykin (a former track and field athlete) and his father Dr. J.SILV Patrick Boykin (a former wrestler, basketball player and a rodeo team roper) provide patient care, while Roberta Boykin is office manager andBRO the “heart and soul” of the practice. Specializing in family care, pregnancy care, sports and personal performance, pain relief, auto accident recovery care, nutrition, and treatment for veterans, the team is dedicated to ongoing wellness and optimal functioning for everyone.

BOYKIN CHIROPRACTIC OFFICE P.C.

SILVER: THRIVE HEALTH SYSTEMS thrivehealthsystems.com BRONZE: CAREFREE CHIROPRACTIC carefreechiro.com PLACE FOR EYEWEAR

ABBA EYE CARE abbaeyecare.com

to a “C graph front d torship seriou therap design

YOU’RE DEFINITELY SEEING THIS CLEARLY…SILV With ABBA’s four Colorado Springs locations there’s always excellent eye care nearby, providing everything from routine exams to consul-BRO tations for laser surgery to glasses, sunglasses and contacts. ABBA aims “to make sure everyone can see no matter what their price point is,” offering discounts and a variety of prices, says Brie Hines, practice manager at the Nevada Avenue location. She adds, ”Our Oakleys are always popular,” which comes as no surprise considering the adventurous spirit of the Springs.

SILVER: COSTCO | costco.com/optical.html

64

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | HEALTH & WELLNESS

BRONZE: ROCKRIMMON VISION visionsource-rockrimmonvision.com (tie)

SILV

BRONZE: ARCHDALE EYECARE archdaleeyecare.com (tie)

BRO

BRO

RETIREMENT & ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY

WINSLOW COURT ASSISTED & SENIOR LIVING tinyurl.com/Winslow-CS

WINSLOW COURT ASSISTED & SENIOR LIVING PROVIDES RESORTstyle living that’s bright and hopeful (“safe and secure shouldn’t mean dull and depressing,” they point out) with a focus on warm support for each resident. The private apartments are designed for active seniors, delicious meals are chef-prepared, and the team offers community activities both on and off the property. Winslow Court prides itself on transparent pricing, and with choices including independent living, assisted living or short-term care, there are plenty of supportive options for your loved ones. As one family member said of her mother’s care: “I hate calling the staff as ‘staff,’ because they treat my Mom like family.”

SILVER: AMADA SENIOR CARE | amadaseniorcare.com BRONZE: BROOKDALE SKYLINE | brookdale.com MEDICAL SPA

GENESIS MEDSPA genesis-medspa.com

FOUNDED IN 2007 BY DR. LISA JENKS, GENESIS MEDSPA IS all about rejuvenating skincare for everyone. Dr. Jenks and her team of master injectors and aestheticians offer laser treatments, facials, microneedling, injectables and body sculpting services, providing personalized attention in a relaxed, pampering environment. “From the time a client calls us for an appointment till the time they are wrapped up and on their way out the door … they feel like they’re the only client that comes to Genesis,” says practice manager Ashley Perez. Genesis also offers products and services that are safe for pregnant and nursing women and immunocompromised people.

SILVER: TIMELESS AESTHETICS | timelessaestheticsllc.com BRONZE: MED SPA BY BEAUTY BAR | beautybar-inc.com NAIL SALON

BEAUTY BAR beautybar-inc.com

FROM A FULL SET OF DESIGNED AND DAZZLED ACRYLICS to a “CBD Pedicure,” at Beauty Bar you’ll be pampered hand and foot. Chrome, holographic and metallic — nail polishes are flying off the shelves, says McKenna Lay, front desk coordinator and retail manager. Detail-oriented and supported with mentorship, the Beauty Bar team “all have each other’s backs,” she says. The services are seriously professional but the vibe is all fun — from the music bumping to the retail therapy and spa amenities to the glasses of bubbly and the full-service bar — all designed to make sure clients leave looking forward to their next visit.

SILVER: VEDA SALON & SPA | coloradoveda.com BRONZE: HELEN’S NAILS | facebook.com/helensnails

Wondering what to to this weekend?

Visit

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HAIR SALON

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VEDA SALON & SPA IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE P. 62.

SILVER: BEAUTY BAR | beautybar-inc.com BRONZE: SALON BELLA | facebook.com/salonbella529 (tie) BRONZE: A TOTAL NEW YOU SALON & SPA | atnysalon.com (tie)

Nonprofit publication of Citizen-Powered Media

csindy.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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WI N N ER Enjoy

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your entire purchase, to celebrate with us! *Coupon expires 12/31/23. Present this ad to your budtender. Restrictions apply. Discount cannot be combined with other offers.

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INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | CANNABIS

CANNABIS PLACE FOR CBD PRODUCTS

MAGGIE’S FARM

maggiesfarmmarijuana.com AS RECREATIONAL CANNABIS LEGALIZATION IN Colorado approaches its 10-year anniversary, there’s almost no doubt that Maggie’s Farm has entrenched its position as one of the best dispensaries in the Pikes Peak region. Maggie’s Farm prides itself on its Clean Green Certified flower, cannabis grown to organic standards, set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Maggie’s farming philosophy prioritizes minimizing environmental impact. Maggie’s Farm harvests only one outdoor crop each year using nutrient-rich soil, spring water and Colorado sunshine. Across locations, Maggie’s budtenders are knowledgeable and kind. They focus on providing a no-rush, no-pressure, no-intimidation shopping experience. In addition to edibles, concentrates and pre-rolls, Maggie’s also dabbles in CBD, to include tinctures, topicals, bath salts and more. But if you visit, you might want to bring a sweater — it’s pretty chill in there.

SILVER: MYXED UP CREATIONS myxedup.com BRONZE: ALPINERY CBD CO. alpinefamilyfarms.com

MMJ DISPENSARY – DOWNTOWN

GOLDEN MEDS goldenmedsco.com

YOU KNOW THE LYRICS: “DOWNTOWN, NO finer place for sure.” Golden Meds proves Petula Clark was ahead of her time. Not only does the medical dispensary provide Indy-Goldworthy service and products, the Denver-born Meds is also socially conscious. “As part of that community, we’ve sought inclusion at every turn and worked to add diversity to the cannabis culture through our hiring practice, our customer base, and our suppliers,” their website says. And with brands like Kanopya Springs, Monte Fiore Farms, Next 1 Labs and Seed & Smith, a brighter day is just a Downtown trip away. And be sure to check out the daily specials.

SILVER: BOBBY BROWN BEST BUDS | bobbybrownbestbuds.com BRONZE: STANDING AKIMBO standingakimbodenver.com MMJ DISPENSARY – PUEBLO

MAGGIE’S FARM

maggiesfarmmarijuana.com MAGGIE’S FARM IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINner. See above.

SILVER: CANNABIS DEPOT cannabisdepotco.com BRONZE: STRAWBERRY FIELDS strawberryfieldscannabis.com CANNABIS | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

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RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA DISPENSARY

EMERALD FIELDS emeraldfields.com

WITH COLORADO SPRINGS RESIDENTS VOTING DOWN recreational marijuana dispensaries in November 2022, cannabis users will keep trekking to Emerald Fields in Manitou Springs for their goods. A self-described “cannaboutique,” Emerald Fields has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike since 2015. Seeking to make cannabis retail more mainstream with high-quality experiences and products, their website makes in-store pickup orders easy while knowledgeable sales staff are available on-site if you need some help.

Frequent “flyers” can even take advantage of their Gratify Rewards loyalty program to earn discounts on future purchases.

SILVER: ALPINE ESSENTIALS | alpinemj.com BRONZE: MAGGIE’S FARM maggiesfarmmarijuana.com

MMJ DISPENSARY – NORTH

ALPINE ESSENTIALS alpinemj.com

WITH OWNERS WHO GREW UP IN PALMER LAKE, ALPINE ESSENtials has been growing and serving the town’s medical marijuana needs for the past eight years. “We’ve got an excellent menu with a variety of products and excellent customer service,” says sales manager Chris Mastrilli. From edibles and tinctures to private label cannabis flower and more, Alpine’s enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff build relationships with their customers — whether new or experienced cannabis users — by being educated about their products in a high-end retail environment. “We’re very excited to be here and to serve the community,” Mastrilli says.

SILVER: MAGGIE’S FARM | maggiesfarmmarijuana.com BRONZE: PURE MEDICAL | pure719.com

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INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | CANNABIS

E K L A L NA ER TIO M EA L PA ECR R

Med Dispensary North

PALMER LAKE RECREATIONAL DISPENSARY

$

Rec Dispensary

10 OFF

Valid until 11/15/23. Must spend $75 before tax. Limit one per customer. REC only.

Place for CBD – Alpinery

719-375-1134 AlpineMJ.com 850 Commercial Ln. Palmer Lake CANNABIS | csindy.com | Oct. 25, 2023 | INDY BEST OF

69

VOTED BRONZE BEST HEAD SHOP & BEST VAPE SHOP!

Over 2200 Bongs 300+ Varieties Over 5000 Hand Pipes 200+ Varieties GREAT SELECTION OF CIGARILLO, WRAPS & TIPS ROLLING PAPERS, CONES & ROLLING MACHINES

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MAGGIE’S FARM IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE P. 67.

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SILVER: THE BOMB HEADSHOP AT BLOWN SMOKE SHOP thebombheadshop.com (tie)

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SILVER: MYXED UP CREATIONS | myxedup.com (tie) BRONZE: SMOKER CITY EMPORIUM smokercitycs.wixsite.com/smokercity (tie)

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A BEST OF WEEDMAPS 2021 WINNER, HIGHTOPS IS NO stranger to accolades. Now a Best Of Indy award charm can be added to their bracelet.

You’ll find all the usual suspects: edibles, pre-rolls, extracts, oils and more. But you’d be remiss if you didn’t look into joining the High Rollers Club where you can earn Loyalty Points, take advantage of Wake and Bake specials — and becoming a member is as easy as purchasing a T-shirt with their cool-ass logo on it. Pair with some hightops and wear it with Eastside pride.

SILVER: CANNIBICARE | weedmaps.com/dispensaries/cannabicare BRONZE: NATIVE ROOTS | nativerootscannabis.com MMJ DISPENSARY – WEST

MAGGIE’S FARM

maggiesfarmmarijuana.com MAGGIE’S FARM IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE P. 67.

SILVER: EMERALD FIELDS | emeraldfields.com BRONZE: CONFIDENTIAL CANNABIS | confidentialdispensary.com MMJ DISPENSARY – SOUTH

MAGGIE’S FARM

maggiesfarmmarijuana.com MAGGIE’S FARM IS A MULTIPLE GOLD WINNER. SEE P. 67.

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*coupon must be present at purchase *some items excluded 70

55

hightopscannabis.com

INDY BEST OF | Oct. 25, 2023 | csindy.com | CANNABIS

SILVER: HIGH HOPES | highhopescannabis.com BRONZE: NATIVE ROOTS | nativerootscannabis.com

A HUGE THANK YOU FROM US AT TONY’S Gold - Dive Bar Gold - Neighborhood Bar Downtown Gold - Sports Bar Silver - Happy Hour Silver - Overall Bar WINNERS OF 85+ BEST OF AWARDS in 25 years!!!

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MUSEUM | THEATRE | ART SCHOOL

Through our museum galleries, performance spaces, and classrooms, we invite you to experience a site of creativity, collaboration, connectivity, and communion for all.

Learn more at fac.coloradocollege.edu

In the Heights performance photo by Jeff Kearney, TDC Photography

We are for art enthusiasts, lifelong learners, cultural explorers, partners in humanity.

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