THANK YOU COLORADO DAILY READERS RE/MAX of Boulder BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY Nothing makes us prouder than being chosen by our friends and clients as the BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY. Boulder County is our backyard and we have been serving our local communities since 1977. We are giving back by sponsoring two major live music events this summer. Once again, RE/MAX of Boulder is the presenting sponsor for Band on the Bricks on Wednesday nights on the Pearl Street Mall. We are also sponsoring the Louisville Downtown Street Faire on Friday nights. We have earned our place as the top-performing real estate company in Boulder County. Now it’s our turn to thank you for your continued support. Come join the fun and help us ROCK BOULDER COUNTY!
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April 2018
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 3
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // FOOD & DRINK
2018 CU & BOULDER’S BEST
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The 2018 CU and Boulder’s Best results are in. In this guide you will find some of the finest restaurants, retail stores, service providers, entertainment venues and people that make CU and Boulder a place we love. Browse through the following pages and keep this guide handy throughout the year.
Best Food & Drink ................ 5
Thanks to everyone for voting. Now turn the page and read about the winners!
CONTRIBUTORS: Writers: Brittany Anas, Darren Thornberry, Adam Goldstein, Julie Kailus, Emma Castleberry, Linda Bond, Shelley Widhalm Photographer: Jonathan Castner Advertising Features Coordinator/Design: Greg Stone
Best Entertainment, Health & Fitness ................. 12
Digital Content Producer: Alan Crandall VP/Marketing & Advertising: Jill Stravolemos
ColoradoDaily.com CU and Boulder’s Best is a marketing feature of your Colorado Daily. Copyright 2018, Prairie Mountain Publishing. To advertise, call your advertising consultant or 303.473.1400. 4
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
Best Shopping & Retail...... 21 Colorado Daily
CU & BOULDER’S BEST //
BEST FOOD & DRINK BEST BREAKFAST & BEST DINER
Doug's Day Diner
2400 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.449.5733, boulder.dougsdaydiner.com
BEST BAKERY & BEST LUNCH & BEST NEW RESTAURANT
Le French Café
2525 Arapahoe Ave., Unit C1 Boulder 303.284.2265, facebook.com/lefrenchcafeboulder
Croissants, crepes and macarons? Oui, say Boulderites! Le French Café, a relative newcomer to Boulder, is earning accolades from guests who love the European charm of this colorful cafe that’s in the Village Shopping Center. Nudged to give an acceptance speech, Owners Agnes and Quentin Garrigou had this to say: “We are so grateful to all of the customers who have enjoyed a meal – or just a coffee and croissant – with us at Le French Café. We are honored to have had you in our restaurant and so happy that you all enjoyed your experiences.” Le French Cafe is a bakery that serves breakfast and lunch, with classic dishes like French onion soup, sandwiches on freshly baked baguettes and Croque Madame, a sandwich with toasted ham and cheese, a sunny-side up egg and Bechamel sauce. “Every customer is family to us, whether they’re a first time customer or have been a regular since the opening of the restaurant,” say the Garrigous, who added that they enjoy serving “a little slice of France” to people in Boulder. Runner Up for Best Bakery: Lucky's Bakehouse and Creamery 3990 Broadway St., Boulder, 720.596.4905 luckysmarket.com/luckys-bakehouse-creamery
While every town needs a classic diner, Doug’s Day Diner dares to experiment with its menu while still offering up the classics. This means the inventive “Black Betty Burger” – smothered with peanut butter, fresh green chile, sharp cheddar and blackberry jam – shares a menu with traditional eggs benedict. The goal at Doug’s Day Diner? To be your “third place,” whether you’re a regular or a newcomer. The quintessential diner isn’t work or home, but rather that third place where you can feel taken care of and where traditions can be formed over a latte and perfectly made omelette. The menu here is big (and so are the servings!), with plenty of sweet and savory options. Got a sweet tooth? Try the Boulder
Crepes, which come with homemade jam or cream cheese and is topped with powdered sugar and whipped cream. The menu is also brimming with burrito and sandwich options, too, making it a great place for breakfast or lunch. Runner Up for Best Breakfast: Lucile's Creole Cafe, 2124 14th St., Boulder, 303.442.4743, luciles.com Runner Up for Best Diner: Dot's Diner, 2716 28th St., Boulder, 303.449.1323, dotsdinerboulder.com
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Thank You for voting us Best Auto Repair this year
Runner Up for Best Lunch: BJ's Restaurant, 1690 28th St., Boulder, 303.440.5200, bjsrestaurants.com Runner Up for Best New Restaurant: Bartaco, 1048 Pearl St., Boulder, 719.249.8226 bartaco.com April 2018
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CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 5
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // FOOD & DRINK
BEST BREW PUB
BEST BURGER & BEST HAPPY HOUR
Avery Brewing Co.
4910 Nautilus Court North, Boulder, 303.440.4324, averybrewing.com
Since 1993 Avery has been committed to producing eccentric ales and lagers that defy styles and categories. “Boulder County attracts some badass people and we get to hang out, connect, talk beer and be a part of their lives,” says Ray Decker, hospitality manager at Avery Brewing. “We couldn't be more grateful to be surrounded by this incredible community and the beautiful land of Boulder and Colorado.” And the Avery team does a stellar job describing their brews. Andy Parker, chief barrel herder, describes Raja as tasting like “a passion fruit wrapped in really good weed.” Lyle Cobb, from the tap room and kitchen, describes Old Jubilation Ale as a “sexy sweater for your mouth.” We’ll toast to that! But the Avery team isn’t just making great beer; they’re also partnering with several nonprofits to help them raise money (and also make meetings less dull). Runner Up: Mountain Sun Pub and Brewery 1535 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.546.0886, mountainsunpub.com
Roadhouse Boulder Depot
2366 Junction Place, Boulder, 303.443.2167, roadhouseboulderdepot.com
Come for happy hour and stick around for a burger. Roadhouse Boulder Depot nabs a win in both of these highly touted categories. Located in the Boulder Train Depot, the restaurant merges urban flare with a historic setting which is reflected on the “roadhouse” style menu. (Think of your fave bar classics, but elevated: prosciutto and asparagus flatbread pizzas, quinoa lettuce cups, potato chip nachos and wings with traditional buffalo sauce or perhaps Asian spiced dry rub). As for those award-winning burgers? There’s a build-your-own option with tasty toppings like crispy onions, jalapeño cream cheese and pork green chili. Or, you can choose from one on the expertly crafted menu.
The restaurant – which opened in winter 2015 by University of Colorado alumni, the Ship brothers, Terry, Dan, Mike and John – holds generous daily happy hours from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and then, round two, from 9 p.m. to close. Runner Up for Best Burger: Bluff Street Bar & Billiards, 2690 28th St., Boulder, 303.444.1562, bluffstreetbar.com Runner Up for Best Happy Hour: The Mediterranean, 1002 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.444.5335, themedboulder.com
BEST CALZONE & BEST LATE NIGHT
BEST CLASSY BAR
The Bitter Bar
DP DOUGH
835 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.442.3050, thebitterbar.com
Editors Note: The DP Dough location in Boulder recently closed, but hopes to reopen a new location soon. Visit dpdough.com for updates.
A couple of mottos at DP Dough, a late-night calzone purveyor: “To each his ‘zone” and “open crazy late.” The restaurant excels in both categories. More than a dozen calzones star on this DP Dough’s menu (alongside tots, breadsticks and wings, too!) The calzones include classics like an “Italian Zone” loaded with salami, ham and pepperoni; chicken calzones; steak calzones and veggie ones, too. On Friday and Saturday night, DP Dough is a beloved stop for hungry Buffs, staying open until 2:30 a.m. During the week, the calzone shop stays open to 1 a.m. Runner Up for Best Calzone: Gondolier Italian Eatery 4800 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.443.5015, gondolieritalianeatery.com Runner Up for Best Late Night: Bluff Street Bar & Billiards 2690 28th St., Boulder, 303.444.1562, bluffstreetbar.com 6
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
BEST CHINESE
China Gourmet
3970 N. Broadway, #102 Boulder, 303.440.3500, chinagourmetmenu.com
When it comes to Chinese orders, most people have their go-to favorites, whether that’s beef and broccoli, Mu Shu chicken or Egg Foo Young. At China Gourmet, it’s pretty much a guarantee you’ll be able to spot your favorite dish on the menu. This no-frills restaurant (no credit or debit cards accepted!) has a massive menu with more than 100 popular Chinese dishes on it including pork, beef, poultry, vegetarian and seafood categories all on the menu. We’re guessing there are even a few dishes you’ve never heard of before, like “Ants Climbing a Tree.” (Psst, it’s a bean and beef dish). China Gourmet also offers great lunch specials, with much of the menu under $8 a dish. Runner Up: Flower Pepper 2655 Broadway, Boulder, 720.381.1594, flowerpeppereats.com
The recipe for a great classy bar in Boulder: world-famous cocktails paired with a long happy hour so you’ve got more than enough time to imbibe and catch up with friends. Then mix in a great mantra that governs Bitter Bar: Cocktails that are made with passion, not pretense. “Our patrons rave about our happy hour,” says Heather Owens one of the managers at Bitter Bar. It's Monday through Friday 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with several craft cocktails priced at $6 dollars, $4 draft beers listed and a few wines for $5. It’s certainly one of the longest happy hours in town! “In late spring we'll be rolling out a new menu layout along with 10 additional cocktails,” Owens says. “The new cocktails will welcome springtime with floral and citrus-forward beverages.” Runner Up: Brasserie Ten Ten 1011 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.998.1010, brasserietenten.com Colorado Daily
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // FOOD & DRINK
BEST DELI/SANDWICH SHOP
Snarf's Sandwiches
6562 Lookout Road, Boulder; 637 S. Broadway St., Boulder; 2128 Pearl St., Boulder; 5340 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, eatsnarfs.com
This funky sandwich shop has locations throughout the country. But, did you know Snarf’s got its start in Boulder. Jimmy Seidel, AKA “Snarf,” was done looking for the world’s best sandwich, so he created his own. That’s the birth story of Snarf’s first location in Boulder, which is affectionately referred to as “The Shack.” Now, for the next trivia question: Did you know Snarf’s has a secret menu? Over the years employees have crafted some sandwiches that are “off-the-menu” but that you can order. They include a buffalo chicken sandwich gussied up with Frank’s Buffalo Hot Sauce, a cheesesteak and a reuben sandwich. Snarf’s sandwiches are made with premium meats and cheeses, crisp veggies and they set themselves apart with giardiniera peppers and homemade, oven-toasted bread, and the sandwich shop also makes soups and salads.
BEST COFFEEHOUSE
The Laughing Goat
Runner Up: Salvaggio's Deli 2609 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.938.1981; Pearl Street Mall, Boulder, 303.545.6800; 1335 Broadway, Boulder, 303.448.1200, salvaggiosdeli.us
1709 Pearl St., Boulder, thelaughinggoat.com
Laughing Goat Coffeehouse is more than an artisan coffee house and performance venue. It’s also feels like “home” to many of the customers that gather here for coffee, live music, even finely crafted libations. “Just the other day a regular told me ‘I was just reflecting on how important the Goat is to my life – how it’s given me a sense of home – and I just want to thank you for creating it. Throughout the toughest years of my life, you gave me a refuge,’” says Jenkins, owner of The Laughing Goat. “The sense of coming home comes up a lot in the feedback I hear. I believe what we do best is we preserve a sense of community and connection in the spirit of the what is authentically Boulder.” And, this “second home” has some great views, with generous outdoor seating to take in views of the mountains. Runner Up: Trident 940 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.443.3133, tridentcafe.com
BEST DIVE BAR
World Famous Dark Horse Bar and Grill 2922 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.442.8162, darkhorsebar.com
BEST HEALTHY EATS
Fresh Thymes
2500 30th St., # 101, Boulder, 303.955.7988, freshthymeseatery.com
Dive bars are known for being eclectic. The World Famous Dark Horse Bar and Grill, decorated from top to bottom with movie props and antiques and Tuesday night tricycle races, is no exception. The bar, with burgers served from a counter, is a Boulder landmark that has been around since 1975. It appeals to the masses, drawing University of Colorado students and locals for beers, burgers and to watch ball games, and staying open late every night of the week. Dark Horse’s quirk is reflected on the menu, as well, with specialties like the Jiffy Burger (peanut butter, provolone and bacon surprisingly sync up well together) and storied Rocky Mountain oysters. Of course, you’ll want to stay awhile: The bar has trivia, karaoke and bingo nights, as well as pool, air hockey, foosball and videogames. For the uninitiated, the best night to check out this bar is on a Tuesday when adults are lapping around the bar on a specialty tricycle for a chance to win beer.
Fresh Thymes offers a fresh take on healthy food. The cuisine is fast, convenient and healthy – yet you’ll still feel as though you’re indulging. (Hello, mac and cheese with a vegan cashew sauce!) Customers love that Fresh Thymes makes everyday food that people want to eat every day, but it is food that's prepared and crafted in a conscious way to avoid all common allergens, is mindful of nutrient density and supports local farms, says Christine Ruch, chef and owner. “But most importantly, we make food all people crave because it's just plain delicious,” Ruch says. Asked what’s on tap for the future, Ruch says Fresh Thymes is working on making its own kombucha and has plans to expand its retail division, The Marketplace, to carry all kinds of ferments. “If it's one thing I've learned on my own health journey, it's that gut health is paramount and fermented foods are a key component of healthy gut biome,” Ruch says. “Plus they taste great, and fermentation is a great way to preserve the season's bounty.”
Runner Up: Bluff Street Bar & Billiards 2690 28th St., Boulder, 303.444.1562, bluffstreetbar.com
Runner Up: Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant 2010 16th St., Boulder, 303.442.1485, leafvegetarianrestaurant.com
April 2018
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 7
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // FOOD & DRINK
BEST ICE CREAM
BEST INDIAN/NEPALESE
Glacier Homemade Ice Cream and Gelato
Kathmandu II Restaurant 1964 28th St., Boulder, 303.442.6868, kathmandurestaurant.us
4760 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.499.4760; 3133 28th St., Boulder, 303.440.6542, glaciericecream.com
Boulder screams for ice cream from Glacier Homemade Ice Cream and Gelato! Glacier sells ice creams, gelatos, sorbets, low-fat yogurts, ice cream sandwiches and milkshakes. Since opening its doors in 2001, Glacier chefs have made more than 1,000 flavors and do so with fresh, naturally grown produce and ingredients. At any given time, Glacier has at least 70 ice cream flavors in store. “We have been working on making the best tasting and healthiest desserts possible,” says Glacier Founder Mark Mallen. “We started making house-made glutenfree brownies and cookies to add to our ice cream. In addition, we have a new line of dairy-free vegan and paleo flavors called Glacier Cream that tastes just like regular ice cream. We have done Glacier Cream flavors like Coffee Chocolate Chip, Cacoa Berry Chocolate, Pecan, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Mexican Chocolate.” Have an idea for a flavor? Let Glacier know; they might be able to bring it to fruition. Runner Up: Sweet Cow 2628 Broadway, Boulder, 303.447.3269; 669 S. Broadway, Boulder, 303.494.4269, sweetcowicecream.com
BEST ITALIAN & BEST PIZZA
Gondolier Italian Eatery 4800 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.443.5015, gondolieritalianeatery.com
Pay attention, kids, because there are a bunch of Boulderites who know something you might not know: Gondolier IS Italian food. It’s a family restaurant with deep Boulder roots that has been hand-making pasta, pizza, sauce and meatballs since 1960. Gondolier, being a family business, does family-friendly very well. When you walk in the door, the feeling is of being home. Gondolier’s pasta menu boasts hearty, rich fare like fettuccine verde primavera, ziti Bolognese, spaghetti carbonara … the good stuff. Every Tuesday it’s all-you-can-eat spaghetti for $6.99 so that’s a
8
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
Taste the Himalayas at Kathmandu II! Kat II makes traditional Indian and Nepali dishes from scratch using original family recipes. It’s always fresh, and vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes are available. Get your grub delivered by Doordash or Hungry Buffs, or sit in, take out, or have them cater your party in their private dining room! About the menu: chicken and lamb curry, vindaloo, tandoori, and biryani, and seafood and vegetarian entrees, are made to order, so snag some saag soup or fish pakora while you wait. Heaven! If you’re a fan of naan (is it possible not to be?), you’ll probably go way overboard on their scrumptious varieties – garlic, onion, cheese, aloo, kabuli, and more. Kat II has a full bar, not to mention the all-you-can-eat lunch and dinner buffets. So, yes, you can get gutsprung on the city’s best Indian and Nepali food if you see fit, or just select a few dishes to share with friends have a relaxing night out.
no-brainer. Classic Italian dishes like chicken or eggplant parmesan, chicken piccata, and pork marsala will remind of you of mom or grandma’s cooking – divine! And the pizza? Handtossed using the same family thin crust recipe they started with 58 years ago! Try the Wild Mushroom: mozzarella and porcini mushrooms, mushroom sauce, finished with fresh arugula, black truffle shaving, extra virgin olive oil and grated parmesan. Runner Up for Best Italian: Carelli's Ristorante Italiano, 645 30th St., Boulder, 303.938.9300, carellis.com Runner Up for Best Pizza: Cosmo's Pizza, 1325 Broadway, Boulder, 303.447.3278, cosmospizza.com
Runner Up: Nepal Cuisine 4720 Table Mesa Drive, #C100, Boulder, 303.554.5828, nepalcuisineboulder.com
BEST OUTDOOR FOOD/DINING
The Mediterranean
1002 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.444.5335, themedboulder.com
The Med has long been a favorite for food and drinks on its amazing patio. The tapas and paellas, pizza and seafood, all of it noshes best outdoors on a summer night. (It’s a foregone conclusion that you’ll take your folks there on parents’ weekend.) The rebirth of the restaurant’s stellar patio 25 years ago has everything to do with the Med getting the votes in this category. “When we remodeled the Med in 1993, the fabulous private patio was a hidden treasure,” says Owner Peg Romano. “By adding chairs from Italy and re-tiling the fountain with a custom tile design by Ceramica Casola in Positano, Italy, it really came to life. The goal was to make it feel like you have taken a small trip to the Mediterranean coast.” Every spring, Med staff adds brightly colored flowers to “complete the feel” and set the mood for sangrias and sunset. Runner Up: The Lazy Dog Sports Bar & Grill, 1346 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.440.3355, thelazydog.com Colorado Daily
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // FOOD & DRINK
BEST PLACE TO CURE A HANGOVER
Southern Sun Pub & Brewery 627 S. Broadway, Boulder, 303.543.0886, mountainsunpub.com
You can probably think of dozens of worst places to cure a hangover. Sitting in class. Church. Band practice. At work. etc. But how about the best place? Could it be a local 10-barrel brewery with a cozy living room, nice big patio, and all the books and board games you want while you nurse that hair of the dog? Yep, it’s real. Southern Sun Pub & Brewery’s gorgeous beer menu is a total win and your post-mayhem lunch could be a sandwich, burger, quesadillas or a yummy vegetarian, vegan, and/or gluten-free offering. Monday night, when your headache is gone, check out their great lineup of live music, too. Managing Partner Paul Nashak got straight to the point when asked for his thoughts on Southern Sun’s win in this category: “Hangovers are no match for finely crafted malted beverages and the best burgers on the Front Range.”
BEST ROOFTOP
BEST SEAFOOD
1101 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.444.3690, riograndemexican.com
928 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.1811, jaxfishhouse.com/boulder
Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
There’s one Boulder rooftop that offers a killer Flatirons view and the best marg in town, and that’s Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant. If the Flatirons aren’t impressive enough up there, you can people watch, chill with friends, or even contemplate the future, but whatever you do, don’t go thirsty. The Classic Rio Marg is a Rio rooftop rite of passage. “Whether you're bringing the family for Mexican food or just bringing your thirst for a good time, the Rio is always the refreshing, delicious escape you’re looking for with a fantastic view of the Flatirons from our rooftop bar,” says Marketing Manager Jamie Rasmussen. “Thank you, Boulder, for loving us and supporting us over the years, and indulging in the legendary Rio marg!” No, thank YOU, Rio Grande, not just for the marg, but also the incredible chile con queso, shrimp diablo, braised pork tacos and a lot more. Runner Up: The Lazy Dog Sports Bar & Grill 1346 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.440.3355, thelazydog.com
Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar
Let’s put to bed the notion that you can’t get great seafood in a landlocked state. That idea just doesn’t fly at Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar where, since 1994, it’s been serving Boulder insanely fresh, delectable seafood and blowing minds with unrivaled service. Jax has relationships with sustainable fishmongers nationwide and the result is you freaking out over the best fish you’ve ever eaten. “For a number of years, we had no direct competition, so to be recognized now that there are other options in town is even more meaningful,” says General Manager Lee
Sandoval. “We’re fortunate to have some longtime staff here at Jax who are emotionally invested in what we do, which translates to consistently great food and service.” New to oysters? Jax’s Raw Bar has up to a dozen varieties ready to go every night, not to mention clams, crabs and lobsters. All flown in daily. All amazing. Runner Up: Wild Standard 1043 Pearl St., Boulder, 720.638.4800, wildstandard.com
Thank you for your continued support!
Runner Up: Village Coffee Shop, 1605 Folsom St., Boulder, 303.442.9689, villagecoffeeshopboulder.com
Play • Stay • Eat • Sleep • Repeat !
303-442-2602
Open: 7:30am-6pm Everyday!
cottonwoodkennels.com 7275 Valmont Rd., Boulder
Email Tom@CrossFitSanitas.com for info and a free week April 2018
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 9
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // FOOD & DRINK
BEST SPORTS BAR
Bluff Street Bar and Billiards
2690 28th St., Boulder, 303.444.1562, bluffstreetbar.com
Bluff Street has the sports, obviously. But regulars also come back again and again for the happy hour deals, free pool (six tables) until 3 p.m., and the tastiest food you’re gonna have at any bar. Incredible wings and burgers, a knockout beer list, and top-shelf live music make Bluff Street a cut above your average sports bar. Warning: Don’t look at the food pics at facebook.com/ bluffstreetbar unless you are ready to head to Bluff Street immediately. “We are thrilled to be considered Boulder's best sports bar, but so much more goes into making our spot a gratifying experience for everyone,” says Owner Mason Ware. “We think live entertainment, great happy hour, amazing food with a Southern comfort flare, the best pool tables in Boulder, and a fun, experienced staff will catapult Bluff Street Bar & Billiards to not only the best sports bar, but undeniably, the best bar in Boulder!” Runner Up: The Lazy Dog Sports Bar & Grill, 1346 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.440.3355, thelazydog.com
BEST TACO
Bartaco
1048 Pearl St., Boulder; 719.249.8226; bartaco.com
Consider how tacos have blown up over the last couple years. Taco trucks, pop-up taco joints, fast food tacos, street tacos... general taco craziness. So to actually win Best Taco? That’s a big deal and it means Bartaco tacos are legit. Start with a four-inch corn or bibb lettuce shell, top with cilantro, and then go nuts with fried oyster, pork belly, tuna tatako, baja fish, falafel, or something else entirely. “Our focus every day is to provide a memorable
experience for our regulars and new guests alike through our friendly service and vibe, as well as through our quality and flavorful house-made food and drinks,” says General Manager Michael Gleason. “I'm proud of our dedicated, hardworking team. We are grateful to be a part of this incredibly exciting and diverse community – big thanks to our neighbors for welcoming us to Boulder. We're glad you like tacos just as much as we do!" Runner Up: Pica's Mexican Taqueria 5360 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.444.2391, picascolorado.com
BEST SUSHI
BEST THAI
1117 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.473.4730, hapasushi.com
2720 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, 303.440.2903, aloythai.com
Hapa Sushi Grill & Sake Bar
Aloy Thai Cuisine,
Here’s the deal. People love, hate, or aren’t sure about sushi. For those who haven’t made their minds up, Hapa is the perfect place to give it a try. Taking its name from a Hawaiian term that describes a harmonious blend of Asian and American cultures, Hapa’s chefs start with foundational Japanese cooking but don’t hesitate to amplify or mix traditional ingredients with other culinary influences, thereby creating something truly “hapa.” And that’s what’s so appealing to sushi lovers: Hapa dares to try something new and the result is unrivaled sushi goodness. Case in point: the Surf & Turf Roll, which packs lobster tempura, asparagus and avocado in a roll, topped with seared Wagyu beef, drizzled with a garlic basil butter with a side of balsamic reduction. Or how about a true Boulder roll - the Mork & Mindy: Albacore tuna, salmon, chives and mandarin oranges! Get to Hapa now! Stop reading this!
You know that annoying thing where you go to an Asian country, fall in love with the food, come home, and never find anything as good? Aloy Thai Cuisine is the exception! Yes, you CAN get traditional homestyle Thai right here in Boulder. How homestyle is homestyle? Well, Aloy’s chefs are known in Thailand for their versatile dishes made with great respect to tradition. So when you sit down to an Aloy meal, the culinary artists on the other side of the wall are not just dropping stuff in oil and ringing a bell. They’re investing everything they’ve got in your experience. Of course, your favorite Thai dishes like Pad Thai are offered, but you’ll also be invited to try dishes once made for royalty, Bangkok street noodles, and robust curries.
Runner Up: Sushi Zanmai 1221 Spruce St., Boulder, 303.440.0733, sushizanmai.com
Runner Up: Buddha Thai Cuisine 2719 Iris Ave., Boulder, 720.565.0506, buddhathaicuisine.com
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CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
Colorado Daily
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // FOOD & DRINK
BEST WINE SELECTION
BEST VEGETARIAN
Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant
Flagstaff House Restaurant
A passion for fresh and local. That’s what makes Leaf the best vegetarian restaurant in town. From its very own Three Leaf Farm in Lafayette, Leaf offers seasonal organic, megafresh produce and free-range eggs. Boulder has many vegetarian restaurants, it’s true, but Leaf’s chefs work directly with their farmer just down the road and it shows. So if you want to go meatless, let Boulder’s favorite show you how awesome it can be. Many of their dishes can also be made gluten-free and vegan. “We’re so honored to be recognized by the community for our vegetarian cuisine,” says Owner Sara Stewart Martinelli. “Our goal has always been to provide delicious and creative cuisine to our guests, and we strive to show that meatless doesn’t have to mean flavorless. We try to create unique and satisfying dishes using the bounty of the harvest and focusing on the vast array of natural flavors in the botanical world.”
The wine list at Flagstaff House isn’t just the best in Boulder. It doesn’t merely “impress.” No, Flagstaff House has received, every year since 1983, the prestigious Wine Spectator Grand Award for having one of the most coveted wine lists in the world. Flagstaff has more than 16,000 bottles in the cellar, many of which you just won’t see elsewhere. Not to be hyperbolic, but it’s simply spectacular. "We are incredibly honored and thankful and are thrilled to acquire the title of Best Wine Selection,” says General Manager Adam Monette. “In a larger sense, this award is also shared by the many members of our Flagstaff House family who have worked so hard behind the scenes since we opened our doors in 1971. To receive this award from a newspaper we admire so much, that serves a great purpose in our tight-knit Boulder community, makes us all so very happy and grateful."
1138 Flagstaff Rd., Boulder, 303.442.4640, flagstaffhouse.com
2010 16th St., Boulder, 303.442.1485, leafvegetarianrestaurant.com
Runner Up: Native Foods Café 1675 29th St., Suite 1272, Boulder, 303.442.0213, nativefoods.com
Thank You We appreciate all your votes!
Runner Up: Hazel's Beverage World, 1955 28th St., Boulder, 303.447.1955, hazelsboulder.com
ThAnkS For VoTing US Best Diner • Best Breakfast 3 yeArS in A row! Monday – Friday 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Saturday & Sunday 7:00 a.m.– 3:00 p.m. 2400 Arapahoe (corner of Arapahoe & Folsom)
Brie 303.245.9909 | 2828 30th St., Boulder pcspantry.com | Open 7 days a week April 2018
303-449-5733 • Dougsdaydiner.com GET A BREAKFAST BURRITO OR GRIDDLE BISCUIT SANDWICH 5/31/2018
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 11
CU & BOULDER’S BEST //
ENTERTAINMENT, HEALTH & FITNESS BEST ALTERNATIVE CAREGIVER/DISPENSARY
BEST CROSS FIT GYM & BEST PLACE TO WORKOUT
5420 Arapahoe Ave., Unit D, Boulder 303.443.0240, rootmmj.com
2525 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, 303.449.4635, crossfitsanitas.com
Root MMC
The crew at Root MMC takes pride in its product, and that investment makes all the difference for patients seeking high-quality, effective medicine. The growers and budtenders know that every patient is an individual; they’re never careless and they’re not liable to offer any kind of onesize-fits-all approach to connecting patients with the most effective remedy. From concentrates to edibles to topicals and CBD-rich products, Root MMC offers a spectrum of solutions. “We produce 100 percent of the craft cannabis we sell and take personal pride growing clean, high-quality medicine. In addition to our high-quality flower, we are also known for our wide selection,” said Adam Dickey, Root MMC spokesman. “People also come to us for a personalized experience. Patients can rest assured that the Root’s selection will cater to their individual needs, whether a patient prefers to administer marijuana transdermally, sublingually, through digestion or vaporization.” Root MMC offers all of these options in a welcoming, comfortable and no-pressure environment. Runner Up: Terrapin Care Station 1795 Folsom St., Boulder. 303.954.8402, terrapincarestation.com
CrossFit Sanitas
The crew at CrossFit Sanitas didn’t want to simply open another gym that mirrored countless other facilities across the city, the state and the country. Instead of running a mirror image of countless other CrossFit facilities, this group wanted to create a community-centered gym that offered even the most die-hard CrossFit followers some options. In lieu of the standard “garage gym” model of most CrossFit locales, the owners of Sanitas aimed for a different kind of aesthetic. “Gyms are intimidating places for many and CrossFit as a whole didn’t quite solve that on their own,” noted Sanitas CrossFit Manager Tom Baker. “So our mission was and continues to be to create a fun, bright place to work out for all levels while focusing on holistic health. From nutrition to self-care, we’re a one-stop shop!” At Sanitas, that includes rand new workout
Runner Up for Best Place to Work Out : FitTec, 3151 Walnut Street, Walnut Gardens, Boulder, 720.897.3399, fittecfitness.com
BEST BIKE SHOP
959 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.443.2850, theritzcostumes.com
2626 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.413.0228, republiccyclesboulder.com
The staff at the Ritz know that a good costume can be the critical key to a memorable celebration. This costume emporium has been a Boulder staple for four decades, and the reasons for its longevity are clear: quality products and friendly service. “We are the party before the party,” said Owner Susan Nutting and Manager Tiffany Zarr. “It’s all about the experience. We have been costuming Boulder from head-to-toe for 40 years and counting. The Ritz is a Boulder landmark and a must-see for Boulder and beyond.” The Ritz offers options for all kinds of costuming needs, from the subtle to the flamboyant. It’s just as easy to find a nuanced, tasteful evening gown as it is to find a colorful, attention-nabbing getup that’s worthy of a Broadway stage. This range makes The Ritz a valuable resource long before and long after Halloween. This isn’t simple a spot to find masks and unremarkable, disposable costumes; this is a place to find the costumes that best illustrate one’s inner essence.
Republic Cycles offers a simple and straightforward credo that also serves as its main mission: “Our goal is to create a lifelong bicycle relationship with our customers.” The crew at this full-service bike shop works hard to ensure long-term relationships with its customers, offering quality work that persists long after an initial purchase. Indeed, with its wide range of accessories, its fit shop dedicated to making bikes as comfortable as possible for their riders and its full-service repair facilities, Republic is a valuable resource for its customers long after a bike is first wheeled out of the shop. Launched by cycling pros and industry specialists Eric Larimer and Steve Bell in 2016, Republic has quickly earned the status of a community hub for cyclists of all levels of experience. Whether you’re looking for a bike to help you get around town or a more serious ride to tackle the rugged foothill trails around Boulder and beyond, Republic is reliable home base.
The Ritz
Boulder, 303.440.8515, theatricalcostumesetc.com CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
Runner Up for Best Cross Fit Gym: CrossFit Beat 4800 Baseline Road, Ste. C111, Boulder, 720.458.0073, crossfitbeat.com
BEST COSTUME SHOP
Runner Up: Theatrical Costumes, Etc., 673 30th St., 12
equipment, massage treatment rooms, fully-equipped locker rooms, spa-quality showers and downtown Boulder’s only cold plunge pool. Along with a staff of expert trainers and access to nutritious food, drinks and supplements, these resources help Sanitas offer a refreshingly different spin on the CrossFit model.
Republic Cycles
Runner Up: University Bicycles 839 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.4196, ubikes.com Colorado Daily
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // ENTERTAINMENT, HEALTH & FITNESS
BEST CU STUDENT ORGANIZATION
BEST DANCE CLUB
1669 Euclid Ave #401, Boulder, 303.492.7704, programcouncil.com
6185 Arapahoe Road, Boulder, 303.440.8303, avalonevents.org
Program Council
The Avalon Ballroom
College is a time to broaden one’s horizons. No matter one’s major, studying at the university level is an opportunity to explore new conceptual and creative vistas, whether it’s in music or film. The University of Colorado’s Program Council has long taken that mission seriously, and has worked for decades to connect CU students with a wide range of films, recordings and live bands. Since 1953, the Program Council has organized film series and hosted live bands on the Boulder campus. Students of all backgrounds and specialties have had equal access to the latest artist trends thanks to the Program Council – their commitment to bringing in the most innovative local and national bands have ensured that the campus remains a center for the latest and greatest music. What’s more, their equal investment in contemporary and classic film offers the CU community a chance for cultural literacy, an education that only complements any student’s class load, whether they’re studying liberal arts or accounting. Steered by the students, the Program Council continues to ensure that the CU campus is more than just a bunch of buildings that host classes; it’s a place where art, culture and music thrive.
The Avalon Ballroom is a haven for those who take dance seriously. This facility was built by dancers for dancers, and that commitment is clear in the diversity of the programming and the quality of facility. From its elegant décor to its top-notch dance floor, the Avalon spares no expense for its patrons. These touches, along with a revolving program of music and dance that ranges from contra to salsa make the Avalon a unique standout in a city that hosts plenty of dance clubs. “Managed by the Boulder Dance Coalition, it has a 5,000 square foot cushioned dance floor and two smaller dance spaces, all lovingly constructed by the Boulder dance community,” said Boulder Dance Coalition member Maggie Butler. “Our mission is to provide affordable, safe and comfortable spaces for dance, to promote social and participatory dance in our community.” This commitment to all brands of dance and all varieties of music make the Avalon a stunning magnet for dancers who are truly committed to the craft, as well as newbies looking to learn more about the art form.
Runner Up: Radio 1190 1600 Euclid Ave., Boulder, 303.492.5031, radio1190.org
Runner Up: Tahona Tequila Bistro 1305 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.938.9600, tahonaboulder.com
Snarf’s
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BEST DELI & SANDWICH SHOP
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CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 13
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // ENTERTAINMENT, HEALTH & FITNESS
BEST EYE CARE PROVIDER
Aspen Eyewear
2525 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder. 303.447.0210, aspeneyewear.com
Getting a new, up-to-date pair of glasses or contacts shouldn’t take weeks. The optometrists at Aspen Eyewear know that living with out-of-date specs is enough of a hassle; their full-service office on Arapahoe Avenue is designed to connect patients with what they need as quickly as possible. Indeed, Aspen Eyewear’s onsite lab ensures sameday service, one of many touches that makes this eye care provider stand out. This full-service element comes along with a dizzying selection of sunglasses, frames and other eyewear. Of course,
these elements would mean very little without a crew of qualified doctors. Happily, a dedicated and friend corps of optometrists are at the forefront of this family-owned and operated business. Dr. Michael Bollenbacher and Dr. Swalla are invested in every one of their patients, and their personal commitment is clear in every service they provide, from standard eye check-ups to weightier procedures. “We are the right place to take care of your eyes,” the Aspen crew insists, and their rare combination of customer service and personal investment gives that claim plenty of weight. Runner Up: Boulder Vision Center, 1645 28th St., Boulder, 303.443.4545, bouldervisioncenter.com
BEST MASSAGE CLINIC
Bodywork Bistro
1100 Spruce St., Boulder, 303.440.1992; 3825 Iris Ave #300, 303.413.1992; Bodywork Bistro Whole Foods, 2905 Pearl St., 303.545.6611, bodyworkbistro.com
With its multiple locations around Boulder, the Bodywork Bistro is a consistently convenient space to decompress from the pressures of the average workday. But access isn’t the only appeal to this unique trio of clinics. Bodywork Bistro offers an attention to detail and a clinical expertise, a degree of professionalism that’s common to every one of its masseuses. They all share a common purpose: to create a purifying, healing and nourishing environment. “Just as our body needs nourishing food, it also requires nourishing touch to thrive and release negative stress and emotions. As our time is spent more and more on computers we need to make sure we’re getting enough essential touch in our lives,” said Bodywork Bistro Spokesman Dave Goetz. “The massage and bodywork we provide is the antidote for what is missing in our culture.”The clinic bills itself as the“therapeutic touch for a high-tech world,” and its dedicated staff and top-notch chairs and mats do a lot to ease the stress of an overly digitized work cycle. Runner Up: Dargontree Spa 1521 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.219.1444, thedragontree.com/spas/boulder
Best Costumes in B Boulder!
Thank you Boulder!
959 Walnut 303-443-2850 open late 14
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
BEST LOCAL BAND
Gasoline Lollipops gasolinelollipops.com
The members of the Gasoline Lollipops don’t take their role as musicians lightly. Vocalist and Guitarist Clay Rose, Guitarist Donny Ambory, Upright Bassist Brad Morse and Drummer Adam Perry are serious about their status as a Colorado-grown band, and they bring an intensity to every performance. “The Gasoline Lollipops’ mission is to offer residents of Colorado and earthlings in general a relatable human experience put to a danceable beat,” a spokesman for the band explained. “To play in Gasoline Lollipops is often times a spiritual experience, we hope that our listening audience shares this experience with us.” The band never shies away from intensity, pairing folk and rock musical aesthetics with a fervor straight out the punk rock playbook. It’s a unfiltered brand of musicianship that’s attracted a loyal local fanbase and that’s made the Gasoline Lollipops of the state’s most consistent musical representatives. While the band is constantly focused on spreading their message beyond their home base, they remain rooted in the spirit and sounds of the Centennial State. We couldn’t be happier to call them hometown heroes. Runner Up: Face Vocal Band, facevocalband.com
BEST MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO
Easton Training Center
2005 32nd St., Boulder, 303.938.1275, eastonbjj.com/boulder
Martial arts are only part of the dynamic at the Easton Training Center. This studio on 32nd Street uses a wide variety of fighting disciplines to highlight other values and lessons, ones tied to discipline and achievement. “Easton Training Center is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai academy born out of world-class training, built on a foundation of safety, and focused on bringing out the best in every person who steps onto our mats,” said Easton Training Center Assistant Manager Sachi Ainge. “You won’t find intimidation and ego when you walk through our doors – instead, we cultivate a culture where anyone and everyone is encouraged to learn and grow.” Easton Training
Center’s commitment to making students of all backgrounds and all skill sets feel comfortable and safe is a key to its success. This studio effectively melds the best martial arts training with a deeper and valuable philosophy, one that uses ancient fighting traditions to uncover rewarding lessons about perseverance, fitness and spirituality. Runner Up: Boulder Ki Akido 1925 55th St., Boulder, 720.288.0233, boulderkiaikido.org Colorado Daily
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // ENTERTAINMENT, HEALTH & FITNESS
BEST MUSIC VENUE
BEST MUSICAL FESTIVAL
1669 Euclid Ave., #401, Boulder, 303.492.7704, programcouncil.com/ about-2/club-156
100 Sunrise Ranch Road, Loveland, arisefestival.com
Club 156
Seeing a national music act on a college campus is special. There’s something about the energy at a campus like the University of Colorado Boulder that makes live music even more urgent and impressive; seeing up-and-coming acts in a place where thousands are actively engaged in exploring ideas both new and old has a distinct resonance. That’s why Club 156, nestled next to a bowling alley and arcade in the University Memorial Center is such a gem. For decades, musical acts of all backgrounds have toured through the little venue tucked away in the heart of the Boulder campus. For years, it’s been a true testament to the cultural life at CU, thanks to the hard work of students at the Program Council. Just as the Macky Auditorium is a landmark for classical and hauteculture performances, Club 156 is incubator of all the best DIY elements of rock and roll. This is a venue where bands have to give their unadorned best to win the favor of the crowd, and that’s what live pop music on a college campus should be about.
ARISE Music Festival
Great music from high-profile bands is only part of the appeal oftheARISEMusicFestival.Inadditiontohostingnationallyand internationally acts that range in tone from jam bands to hiphop impresarios, the ARISE offers attendees plenty of ways to relax,refresh and focus on the music.Instead of a noisy,crowded arena, the festival takes place against the bucolic setting of Sunrise Ranch in Loveland. And in lieu of endless vendors, the festival hosts yoga classes, music workshops, panel discussions and other activities designed to encourage calm reflection over the course of three days.“The ARISE Festival is an independent, family-run, leave-no-trace event,” said ARISE Spokeswoman Mia Kuehn.“Recognized as more than a music festival, ARISE offers a range of activities such as workshops, enriching yoga classes, provocative documentary films and panel discussions, art installations,live painters and art gallery,performance artists and theme camps.”This wide range of activities helps spotlight the musicians and their output in a purer sense, and the festival’s commitment to an environmentally sound event is a refreshing standout in a crowded festival season. Runner Up: Rocky Mountain Folks Festival Lyons, 800.624.2422, bluegrass.com/folks
Celebrate 40 years of the BOLDERBOULDER with a beautiful, captivating hard-bound book.
BUY THE BOOK ONLINE!
bolderboulder.pictorialbook.com
i c r e M , p u o c u a e B Boulder!!
were voted: e w y h w e e Come s
Best Bakery
Best New Restaurant
Best Lunch
Runner Up: Boulder Theater, 2032 14th St., Boulder, 303.786.7030, bouldertheater.com
April 2018
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 15
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // ENTERTAINMENT, HEALTH & FITNESS
BEST OUTDOOR GEAR STORE
Neptune Mountaineering 633 S. Broadway, Boulder, 303.499.8866, neptunemountaineering.com
Locals are breathing a big sigh of relief now that Neptune Mountaineering has returned to local ownership and completed its massive remodel. “There’s more space, more light and more inventory,” says Marketing Director Shelley Dunbar. “The best part is that our customers are thrilled with the changes. Nearly every day we get feedback about how happy they are.” Neptune curates a special selection of outdoor gear and clothing for climbing, skiing, hiking, camping, backpacking and adventure travel, as well as stocks brands that you won’t find anywhere else. “Beyond that, our friendly staff members are always ready share their expertise and local knowledge, and our weekly slide show events are inspiring and educational,” Dunbar says. It’s a place you want to hang out with like-minded folks, especially at the store’s new full-service coffee bar. “Neptune is far more than just a place to buy outdoor gear, it’s the hub of Boulder’s outdoor community,” she says.
BEST NATURAL FOODS STORE
Natural Grocers
2685 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.402.1400, naturalgrocers.com
There’s no shortage of healthy food stores in Boulder, so Natural Grocers has had to work extra hard to stand out among the competition. A new expanded location has helped the cause. “A year ago we had a space that we outgrew. It was standingroom-only, elbow-to-elbow shopping, and some customers would keep shopping at that space to a minimum,” says Assistant Store Manager Jerome Crawford. “But in our new space, one year this month,
now they’re back. This is certainly a more relaxed place to shop, and we’re giving our customers exactly what they’re looking for.” In addition to a welcoming spot to shop for favorites like 100 percent organic produce and eggs with the highest standards of animal husbandry, Crawford says Natural Grocers delivers the ultimate “trifecta” – the highest-quality wholesome foods, staff members who specialize in making themselves available to answer questions and unbeatable pricing. “It’s a really good combination.”
Runner Up: REI
1789 28th St., Boulder, 303.583.9970, rei.com
Runner Up: Whole Foods 905 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.545.6611, wholefoods.com
BEST POOL TABLES
Outback Saloon
3141 28th St., Boulder, 303.444.0081, outbacksaloon.net
“It’s like a sports bar, dive bar and neighborhood pub all in one,” says Matt Wolvington of the family-owned and -operated Outback Saloon, which he is purchasing from his father to keep the traditional alive. “It’s your ‘Cheers,’ where everyone knows your name. It’s important to me to keep our name in this town and to have a place where people can relax and not be judged.” Pool brings all kinds of Boulderites together at Outback, which maintains nine tables and hosts a Thursday-night league, plus tournaments on Friday at 7:30 p.m. for $5 double elimination singles – and the bar matches the pot. Outback is also home to the county’s only full-length shuffleboard table, as well as darts, foosball, skeeball, Golden Tee and 18 TVs. Of course 24 tapped beers, wings, burgers, and handbreaded chicken tenders, pickles and mushrooms are always available for feel-good sustenance during a long night of pool. Outback has got that down pat: The bar has been open every day from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. for 28 years and running. Runner Up: Sundown Saloon 1136 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.449.4987 16
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
Colorado Daily
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // ENTERTAINMENT, HEALTH & FITNESS
BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY & BEST PILATES
Alta Physical Therapy & Pilates
2955 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.444.8707, altatherapies.com
Thank you for believing in us! We’re honored and grateful to all of our loyal customers who continue to vote us the Best Outdoor Gear Store in Boulder. This is our 17th consecutive win, thanks to you. Come see our new digs and get the best selection, brands, and advice you’ll find anywhere in the world.
Located in Boulder Colorado in the Table Mesa Shopping Center
NeptuneMountaineering.com | Phone: 303.499.8866
Alta Physical Therapy & Pilates is on a mission to elevate the health of the Boulder community. “Not only do we help people recover from acute injuries, we also model and foster lifelong exercise habits that prevent injury and promote active lifestyles,” says Owner Jane Milliff, MMSc PT, CBP. “The diversity of skills and techniques available at Alta is unparalleled. We offer 45- to 60-minute treatment slots, where patients have their therapist’s undivided attention.” Alta’s Pilates program continues to grow, but the facility also offers restorative yoga taught by a physical therapist, qi gong and balance training, all designed to keep people safe, active and thriving at any stage in life and fitness level. Most new patients come to Alta on a friend’s recommendation. “We have developed a
community of devotees and we think that speaks volumes about our care,” Milliff says. “Patients return to us and recommend their loved ones because of our devotion to personalized care focused on getting patients back to their life in a way that makes sense for them. Everything at ALTA is driven by devotion to our patients. They showed us their devotion by voting us CU and Boulder’s Best. Thank you!” Runner Up for Best Physical Therapy: North Boulder Physical Therapy 3000 Center Green Drive, Boulder, 303.413.9903, northboulderpt.com Runner Up for Best Pilates: North Boulder Pilates 3000 Center Green Drive, Boulder, 303.413.3496, northboulderpilates.com
THANK YOU BOULDER
for voting us Best Mani/Pedi! Come see why today! www.jloungespa.com
April 2018
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 17
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // ENTERTAINMENT, HEALTH & FITNESS
BEST RUNNING & HIKING TRAIL
Mt. Sanitas Trailhead
1/2 mile west of 4th Street on Mapleton Avenue, Boulder, 303.441.3440, bouldercolorado.gov/osmp/ mount-sanitas-trailhead
This close-in Boulder trail system is, well, a classic. Rising straight up from downtown, this foothills wonderland serves as the ultimate lunchtime loop for runners wanting to squeeze in a challenging quickie for training purposes; an accessible, picturesque place to hike with out-of-towners after a day of shopping on Pearl Street; and a convenient weekday dog-walking playground for Mapleton neighborhood residents. Most trails and loops are moderate to steep, affording beautiful views of town and Boulder’s famed red rocks. There’s seemingly something here for everyone, depending on how much time you have to explore and your fitness level at altitude. The iconic Mount Sanitas Trail traverses both sides of a dramatic ridge on the way to the Mount Sanitas summit, and the southern portion of the trail is a popular climbing access route for bouldering. No wonder Sanitas is this outdoor-centric town’s top trail. Runner Up: Chautauqua Trailhead, 900 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.441.3440, bouldercolorado.gov/osmp/ chautauqua-trailhead
BEST RUNNING STORE (TIE)
Boulder Running Company
Runner’s Roost
Boulder Running Company remains an institution here, where active residents want to talk to a real person about a real passion. “We understand that it’s easy to go online and buy products, so we strive to ensure that every experience within our store is a good one for all customers,” says Jess Gillman, national community and corporate relationship manager for Boulder Running Company. “We believe that our wide variety of product, connection to the community, and ongoing effort to create new and exciting experiences within our doors helped us to win votes for such an award.” The store carries CrossFit, cross training, yoga and swim products, too. “A lot of people are not just running, but they are doing it all and want a store that can help them get fitted and outfitted for whatever and wherever their fitness endeavors take them,” Gillman says. Community remains a huge push for BRC. “That’s why you will see us out every Saturday supporting ParkRun Boulder or hosting our ‘community for barre’ on the rooftop or yoga on the patio,” Gillman says. “We are constantly looking for ways to grow and bring others along for the journey, and it starts with building and growing a community worth following.”
The biggest different between Runner’s Roost and the competition in the local running shoe market is the store’s attention to detail and biomechanically minded staff. “We not only build custom insoles on location, but we can modify shoes and insoles to meet anyone’s needs within minutes,” says Runner’s Roost Boulder Store Manager Tricia Vieth, who is also a local high school coach. “It’s not just about finding the correct shoe on the shelf, but it’s making that shoe work 100 percent for the individual.” In addition to stocking a wide selection of running shoes for testing out what works best, Runner’s Roost also hosts in-house massage therapy, nutritional services and acupuncture to give local striders exceptional support services. And, according to Vieth, free weekly fun runs, followed up by beer and pizza, Friday morning yoga classes and regular guest speakers “allow the community to connect with the one thing that ties us all together – running!”
2775 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.786.9255
629 S. Broadway, Ste. E, Boulder, 303.554.7837, runnersroost.com
Runner Up: Newton Running 3655 Frontier Ave., Boulder, 303.442.1113, newtonrunning.com
BEST SKATE SHOP
Meta Skateboards
1505 Pearl St., #103, Boulder, 303.443.1245, metaskate.com
For over 17 years, Boulder’s beloved locally owned and operated skate shop has been a fan favorite among aging skaters and now a whole new next generation of riders. Located right downtown, just east of the Pearl Street pedestrian mall, Meta Skate Shop prides itself on being a place to bring together all kinds of people who are passionate about the evolving sport of skateboarding. The store “represents skateboarding as a community based activity, an interaction of neighbors and a source of local inspiration,” according to the shop’s website. Meta stocks a wide selection of skateboard goods as well as affordable finds for those on a budget, including skateboards, trucks, wheels, hardware, clothes, footwear, accessories and more. The shop is also committed to developing the future of the sport. Meta continues to build its team of local riders who represent the brand in skate competitions and act as ambassadors in community skate spaces around Boulder. Runner Up: BC Surf and Sport Twenty Ninth Street, Boulder, 303.440.6030, bcsurf.com
18
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
Colorado Daily
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // ENTERTAINMENT, HEALTH & FITNESS
BEST SKI AND SNOWBOARD SHOP
BEST SKI RESORT
BEST TANNING SALON
2000 30th St., Boulder, 303.442.2493, christysports.com
2861 Eldora Ski Road, #140, 303.440.8700, eldora.com
1670 30th St., Boulder, 303.447.8844, verandasuntanning.com
Christy Sports has been Boulder’s longtime go-to ski resource since taking over its 30th Street brick-andmortar location in the 80s. Assistant Manager Eddie Roy attributes Boulder’s loyalty to Christy Sports to the special attention placed on customer service. “We just try to always go the extra mile, whether that’s busting out a tune as quickly as possible, carrying your skis up to the shop or making sure you’re on the right equipment,” he says. “We had such a good core staff this year – a reliable, dependable group that still likes to have fun while we work.” Known for carrying a selection of “better and best” name brands, Roy gives two in particular a nod for nailing that claim this winter: Ride in the snowboard category and Atomic in the skiing genre. “We are so happy with what Ride has been doing with its boards, boots and bindings. Half my staff rides their stuff,” he says. “On the ski side, Atomic has been making some great skis and boots, and we sell a lot of their equipment.” Come summer, Roy reminds locals that Christy’s transitions to a patio store, becoming the go-to for grills, too.
Just a short drive up Boulder Canyon, Eldora will always be Boulder’s backyard ski area. The resort’s history with the town is long and rich, but the future is still unfolding at this winter playground. Given a medley of improvements and upgrades under new owner POWDR, it’s no surprise Eldora was voted this top honor. “The biggest and best is certainly the installation of the new Alpenglow six-person high-speed lift,” says Marketing Manager Michel Tapia. But Eldora has also cut new runs, upgraded the infrastructure in the base lodges, revamped food menus and enhanced the snowmaking system. Seamless RFID passes are also on the way. “Boulder is unique and fortunate in the fact that such a dynamic and exciting city has a ski resort just over 20 miles away,” Tapia says. With consistent conditions, a fun vibe and great events, guests can enjoy a quick escape from work on a powder day or head up for a full day of fun on the slopes.
Runner Up: Epic Mountain Gear 2525 Arapahoe Road, Boulder, 303.938.8799, epicmountaingear.com
Runner Up: Copper Mountain 209 Ten Mile Circle, Copper Mountain, 800.458.8386, coppercolorado.com
Christy Sports
Eldora
Veranda Sun
Colorado’s got a lot of sunshine, but some people prefer a golden, all-over tan from Veranda Sun, especially in preparation for those beach vacations. Boulder’s first tanning salon, opening its doors way back in 1983, Veranda Sun has grown with the community and now offers eight different levels of tanning in 19 sun beds. The pros here know how to make sure customers are not getting over-exposed to ultra-violet rays. Staff members will access your skin tone to design a tanning plan just for you. That could mean several shorter cosmetic-tanning sessions to achieve your desired bronze results, or even a different type of protective pre-tanning lotion to keep you safe. The salon also offers UVA- and UVB-free red light therapy for skin rejuvenation and pain relief, and a hand-blended, hand-held custom spray tanning solution. Maintaining a clean, high-quality environment, Veranda Sun is committed to keeping its customers happy – and healthy.
Voted Best IndIan/ nepalese
RestauRant 2018
thank
You
Boulder!! April 2018
lunch Buffet - daily • 11am-4:30pm dinner din Buffet - daily • 5pm-9pm 1964 28th st. | Boulder, Co | 303-442-6868 www.kathmandurestaurant.us CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 19
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // ENTERTAINMENT, HEALTH & FITNESS
BEST SPA
BEST YOGA
1521 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.219.1444, thedragontree.com
3280 28th St., 303.440.3930; 1129 13th St., 303.440.8952; 645 27th Way, Boulder, 303.497.9642, corepoweryoga.com
The Dragontree Spa
CorePower Yoga
Spa Director Mary Jindrich describes The Dragontree as “a beautiful, peaceful, community-based spa that nurtures its guests, allowing for rejuvenation of all the senses.” The holistic spa features select Ayurvedic services that take healing to new level. “The air is full of wonderful aromas, and the colors and vibe calm the mind stopping the chatter in the head,” Jindrich says. “Our unique and relaxing Ayurvedic foot baths aim to reinvigorate overworked feet. Imagine soaking your feet after a long day playing in the mountains or walking around downtown. It’s absolute bliss.” The Dragontree is known for focusing on the little things – all the details that enhance the guest experience and create a feeling of serenity from the outside stresses of daily life. That includes the approach by The Dragontree staff. “They are both compassionate and talented, with a true sense of caring aimed at providing the highest quality of customer service,” Jindrich says. Watch for new facials this summer, services based on the full and new moon cycles, plus a new Ayurvedic dry brush treatment with house-formulated oils.
“Lives change here every day,” says Derise Anjanette, who manages CorePower Yoga’s North Boulder studio. “We recognize that incredible life-changing things happen when you root an intensely physical practice in the mindfulness of yoga.” And that’s exactly what students do at CorePower, a place where according to Anjanette “everyone is welcome and your teachers know your name.” A membership or package can be used at any of CorePower’s 175+ locations nationwide, including three in Boulder, and the class selection is vast: Hot Yoga, Yoga Sculpt, Hot Power Fusion, C2 Power Vinyasa, CoreRestore (Yin Yoga) and more. Conveniently, classes start as early as 5:45 a.m. and run as late as 10 p.m., and locations are open 365 days a year. CorePower also takes its collective power beyond the studio, working with organizations such as the Whole Planet Foundation, Give Back Yoga, Yermande, The Red Cross and Smile Train, as well as volunteering at local farms and with Boulder Bridge House, which provides meals to the homeless.
Runner Up: Spa at St Julien 900 Walnut St., Boulder, 720.406.9696, stjulien.com/spa
Runner Up: Yoga Pod 1750 29th St., Boulder, 303.444.4232, boulder.yogapod.com
Boulder’s Most Awarded Mover
by the daily camera, colorado daily & The boulder Weekly Call Today For A FREE Friendly Estimate
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visit our website www.taylormove.com 20
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
Colorado Daily
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // SHOPPING & RETAIL
SHOPPING & RETAIL BEST ART SUPPLY STORE
Guiry’s Color Source
2404 Pearl St., Boulder; 303.444.3800; guirys.com
BEST ART GALLERY
Art + Soul Gallery
1615 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.544.5803, artandsoulboulder.com
Art + Soul Gallery has curated an eclectic and varied selection of jewelry and fine art in an effort to match the desires of the community in which it operates. “We really listen to what our clients want,” says Gallery Owner Debbie Klein. “There are so many amazing artists and designers out there doing special work, but Boulder is a unique place with unique tastes.” Visitors will find a wide selection of art, from oil on canvas to reclaimed object sculpture, as well as high-quality, elegant jewelry. “We are always on the hunt for special pieces that will resonate with our clients, whether it is our selection of exceptional alternative bridal and commitment jewelry, or affordable and meaningful fine art,” says Klein. “We specifically search for things that we think our clients want to live with. I don’t think many galleries have to have a conversation with their clients about rock climbing or kayaking with their new diamond ring!” Runner Up: Smith Klein Gallery 1116 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.7200, smithklein.com
BEST AUTO MECHANIC
Pellman’s Automotive Service
2560 49th St., Boulder, 303.938.4050, pellmansauto.com
The team at Pellman’s Automotive understand that your car is one of your most precious investments and handing it over to someone, even a qualified professional, can be a somewhat uncomfortable experience. In an effort to generate more peace of mind for their customers, the company provides digital inspections, which show pictures and video of exactly what is happening to your vehicle. “We e-mail or text the inspection results and then spend some time explaining our findings and recommendations,” says Lisa Pellman, owner of Pellman’s Automotive. “Our customers love this resource and feel like they have a better understanding of their vehicle through our use of it.” But most Pellman customers already know they are in good hands, even without the digital inspection. “We are an ASE Blue Seal shop and have been for the past 14 years, which means every employee in our shop is Certified,” says Pellman. “This requires effort and persistence, but the reward is a well-trained, professional staff that are knowledgeable and up-to-date on today’s technically advanced vehicles. Our goal is to go above and beyond to give the highest level of service and care to all of our customers.”
Felicia Claiborne, district manager for Guiry’s Color Source, knows that artists have a choice when it comes to where (and how) they purchase their products and materials. “We live in an age where you can restock your entire kit without ever leaving your couch,” she says. “And any company can sell paint or brushes. This is why we try to be more than just a place you go to pick up a canvas.” From the carefully-curated, highquality inventory to the knowledgeable and passionate staff, Guiry’s tries to be a place where artists want to go shopping. “We’re family owned and operated and, because of that, we have an ingrained sense of community and family,” says Claiborne. “We care about what we do, and our co-workers and customers often times become some of our closest friends. This award is so special to us because it is just a small indicator that we’re heading the right direction and that the efforts we put in have an impact on our community.” Runner Up: Meininger 1135 Broadway, Boulder, 303.444.3063, meininger.com
BEST BARBER SHOP
Al’s Barber Shop
1219 Pennsylvania Ave, Boulder, 303.442.8832, als-barbershop.net
Al’s Barber Shop was founded nearly 25 years ago in an effort to provide a high-end-yet-comfortable environment where men can get their hair cut, groomed and styled. The continued popularity of the barber shop is a testament to the realization of that effort. The name refers to founder Al Urbanowski, who envisioned a barber shop where classic and old school meet stylish and modern. This theme applies not only to their full-service menu of hair services, including straight shaves and color treatments, but also to the American Crew product line carried at both locations. After Urbanowski established the Boulder location in 1995, a second Denver location followed in 2007. Urbanowski still offers haircuts and shaves at both locations with his team of dedicated, highlytrained stylists. While Al’s Barber Shop recommends appointments, they take walk-ins as well. The Boulder location is opened Monday through Saturday and the Denver location is open Tuesday through Saturday. Runner Up: Floyd’s 99 Barbershop 2790 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.2279, floydsbarbershop.com
Runner Up: Hoshi Motors 2504 Spruce St., Boulder, 303.449.6632, hoshimotors.net April 2018
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 21
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // SHOPPING & RETAIL
BEST CAR WASH
Puddle Car Wash
3100 28th St., Boulder; 303.447.9274, puddlecarwash.com
BEST BANK & BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE
Elevations Credit Union 1669 Euclid Ave., Boulder; 2960 Diagonal Hwy., Boulder; 4760 Baseline Road, Boulder; 303.443.4672, elevationscu.com
When Elevations Credit Union was founded on the CU Boulder campus more than six decades ago, the company’s primary constituency was the faculty, staff and students of the university. While the company has since grown to serve a much larger and diverse customer base, they still treat each member as an individual. “As a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution, we are only successful when our members are successful,” says Susan Green, chief marketing officer for Elevations. “That means we emphasize building long-term relationships and deep mutual trust with our members by acting in the best interest of our membership
and community.” Elevations provides free financial seminars and youth financial literacy programs to the community, and also partners with CU Boulder to provide students with a firm financial start through Buff One Banking and the provision of more than $250,000 in scholarship awards every year. “At Elevations Credit Union,” says Green, “we believe in providing solutions for a better life.” Runner Up for Best Bank: Chase Bank 3325 28th St., Unit 4, Boulder, 303.444.0792; 2950 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.449.3361; 2500 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.245.6620; 1301 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, 303.245.6660; 1310 College Ave., Boulder, 303.474.3295; 603 S. Broadway, Boulder, 303.245.6590, chase.com Runner Up for Best Customer Service: Cottonwood Kennels 7275 Valmont Road, Boulder; 303.442.2602, cottonwoodkennels.com
Puddle is so well known in Boulder that most people don’t even include the “Car Wash” part of the name when talking about it. With almost fifty years of operation under its belt, the family-owned business has washed and detailed more than four million vehicles for loyal customers. While employee retention is often a challenge at a car wash, Puddle has managed to maintain a dedicated team of employees. “The success of the Puddle has a great deal to do with our long-time employees trying to make customers happy,” says Steve Miller, owner of Puddle. “We focus on speed without sacrificing quality because we realize time is valuable to people.” Puddle has no cloth or brushes in its automated wash system for a completely safe, touch-free wash for your vehicle. “We do quality work quickly and our experience, expertise and attention to detail are first and foremost to meet the expectations of our customers,” says Miller. Runner Up: 95th Street Car Wash & Detail Center 2541 Arapahoe Road, Lafayette, 303.664.9274, carwashlafayette.com
BEST DRY CLEANER
Art Cleaners
1501 Lee Hill Road, Unit 6, Boulder, 303.447.8700; 3980 Broadway, Boulder, 303.443.0158; 1715 15th St., Boulder; 303.440.8600; 2570 Baseline Road, Boulder; 303.499.7030; 4800 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.494.2709, artcleaners.com
A mattress isn’t something that people buy often, and the team at Verlo Mattress want to keep it that way. “We’re the only company that offers a lifetime comfort guarantee, where we can adjust the comfort of our products down the road in case our guests comfort preferences and needs change,” says Randon Brewster, managing partner at Verlo. All Verlo mattresses are crafted-to-order in the local Boulder factory. The first mattress adjustment within 180 days is always free and, depending on the mattress model, that warranty is sometimes extended to a year. Verlo is locally owned and operated by a team of active community members who understand that their customers are their neighbors. “There are many options when it comes to bedding and mattress stores in Boulder, so we really appreciate being recognized as the best by the community we serve,” says Brewster. “This award is special to us because we always strive for excellence through providing our guests the best value and customer service.”
Art Cleaners is a Boulder staple for all your cleaning needs and a regular appearance in customer-voted awards throughout the city, and a recent change in ownership hasn’t made that any less true. “We’ve been in Boulder County for a really long time,” says Gus Mircos, operations manager at Art Cleaners. “Boulder is where our flagship stores are and we rely on the Boulder community to provide a high level of customer activity at those stores so we can keep running. Knowing that the Boulder community appreciates the service that we provide makes us even more appreciative of the community itself.” Art Cleaners is committed to being a “green cleaner,” meaning they only use silicone-based products rather than petroleum-based ones. Art Cleaners is also a true family business: Kim Austin, Mircos’ mother, purchased the business from long-time owner Brian Hansen, who is still involved. Art Cleaners runs monthly specials for their e-mail subscribers and customers can sign up for the e-mail newsletter on their website. The company also offers free pick up and delivery twice a week.
Runner Up: Denver Mattress Co. 1945 28th St., Boulder, 303.413.1314, denvermattress.furniturerow.com 22 CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
Runner Up: John’s Cleaners & Laundry 3325 28th St., #6, Boulder, 303.444.2877, johnsdrycleaners.com Colorado Daily
BEST BEDDING/MATTRESS STORE
Verlo Mattress
3080 Valmont Road, Boulder; 303.447.1154, verlo.com
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // SHOPPING & RETAIL
BEST FURNITURE STORE
HW Home
1941 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.545.0320, hwhome.com
BEST EYE CARE
Envision
1011 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.939.8021, envisionboulder.com
Since its opening in 1966, Envision has been working to provide the Boulder community with a full-service eye care center that is much more than just a place to buy your glasses. Envision not only carries the most contemporary eyewear with unique styles for every shopper, but they also provide full-service optical where certified opticians and doctors can give comprehensive eye exams, evaluations for LASIK, and medical care. Envision can even provide emergency services and
treatment for situations like foreign object removal. “We have a wonderful, friendly and knowledgeable staff to help our patients and clientele,” says Chris Merciez, optical manager at Envision. “We are a unique, boutique-type business with three optometrists on staff. We have enjoyed helping many families from Boulder and the surrounding communities throughout the years.” Envision is conveniently located in downtown Boulder next door to Pasta Jay’s and customers can get their parking validated for any city garage. Runner Up: Aspen Eyewear 2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.447.0210, aspeneyewear.com
BEST FLORIST / GARDEN CENTER
Sturtz and Copeland Florist and Greenhouses
A local, Colorado company, HW Home has been providing Boulder and the surrounding areas with an eclectic selection of furniture and home accessories for nearly 20 years. “To us, business is personal, and our customers respond well to that,” says Ron Werner, president and co-founder of HW Home. “We recognize each person that walks through the door is unique with an even more unique style, so we give them the freedom to customize pieces and make them their own, without a crazy mark-up.” April will be a great time to take advantage of HW Home’s customization options during the Perfect Fit Event. “The experience of HW Home is all about coordinated living and seizing the opportunity to tell a rich story,” says Werner. “That was achieved through two decades of sourcing, hand-crafting, selling and improving everything we touch.”
ThANK yOU BOUlDer!
2018 CU & Boulder’s BEST
PhysiCAl TherAPy & PilATes AltaTherapies.com | Close to Campus | 303-444-8707
2851 Valmont Road, Boulder, 303.442.6663, sturtzandcopeland.com
Nearly ninety years in business can cause a lot of changes, not all of them good. With that type of history, some businesses might start skimping on quality or get so large that they lose their connection to customers. This is not the case for Sturtz and Copeland Florist and Greenhouses. “It’s hard to find a real, storefront florist shop these days,” says Connie Smith, manager at Sturtz and Copeland. “Plenty of places carry flowers but specialists, they are not, and we are.” April 2018
Not only does Sturtz and Copeland have a team of professional floral designers with years of experience, but the store also carries a wide selection of interesting house plants and garden accessories in addition to fresh flowers. The team at Sturtz and Copeland can help design flowers for any major event in a customer’s life, plan a custom garden for yards of all sizes, or simply help you find the perfect plant, flower or accessory for your gardening needs. “We are a hometown,
We’re proud to be CU & Boulder’s Best Bike shop – two years in a row!
friendly place that remains committed to offering the best products and the best advice, care and service to our customers,” says Smith. Runner Up: Fiori Flowers 2620 North Broadway Street, Boulder, 720.565.2434, fioriboulder.com
Pickup & Delivery Servicing - Trade Up Program - Demo & Rental Bikes 2626 Baseline Rd, Boulder, CO | 303.413.0228 RepublicCyclesBoulder.com CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 23
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // SHOPPING & RETAIL
BEST HAIR SALON & BEST INDEPENDENT BUSINESS
Pompadours
1320 Pearl St., Ste. 200, Boulder, 303.938.8015, pompadours.com
This is the thirteenth year that Pompadours has been named Boulder Best Hair Salon. Located on the historic Pearl Street Mall between 13th and 14th Streets, the staff returns the love CU students and Boulder residents have for Pompadours. Manager Jessica Wilkerson said, “We are so grateful. We have been CU’s trusted neighbor for 28 years. We are selective on our talented and creative stylists and we offer continued education to keep improving our skills. We have fresh talent this year and are keeping up with the most current trends while creating new ones. Our service list is constantly evolving!”Jessica added, “We are so appreciative of every guest who enters our doors and we promise they’ll leave feeling better than they’ve felt in years. We value their loyalty and do our best to meet their needs. We have many clients who have been coming here since day one, almost 30 years ago! Many of our guests are more like family and friends of ours.” Runner Up Best Hair Salon: Salon Liquid 1100 Spruce St., Boulder, 303.444.4446, hairsalonliquid.com Runner Up Best Independent Business: Boulder Bookstore 1107 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.447.2074, boulderbookstore.net
BEST LINGERIE
Christina’s Luxuries
2425 Canyon Blvd., #100, Boulder, 303.443.2421, christinasluxuries.com
BEST HARDWARE STORE
McGuckin Hardware
2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.443.1822, mcguckin.com
McGuckin Hardware was founded in 1955. The hardware store has over 150,000 items in 18 different departments spread across 60,000 square feet of ‘anything you can imagine.’ “We hope we were named ‘best’ because of our efforts in personalized customer service, advice and product selection. Our features, products and services have not changed much from the previous year, besides the constant influx of new items that we bring in to keep our stock fresh. We also try and host fun, hands-on Saturday activities, which we call ‘Shoppertainment.’ Otherwise, we’re just focusing on the tried and true model of ‘face-to-face interactions’ that built our business from the ground up,” says Steve Wilke, marketing communications. Wilke said, “We’re very grateful for and indebted to our wonderful customers for their continued support. We take pride in being Boulder’s favorite ‘everything’ store, and we cannot thank our customers enough!”
BEST JEWELRY STORE
Hurdle’s Jewelry
1402 Pearl Street, Boulder, 303.443.1084, hurdlesjewelry.com
Boulder’s oldest and longest standing jewelry store has been a family affair for over 70 years. Owner Keith Hurdle is the third generation to run the store and his daughter is following his footsteps as the fourth generation. He said, “We are involved in the community; we are a part of the city that got us to where we are today.” He believes the quality of service separates Hurdle’s from everybody else. “It’s so important for us to give people the proper experience from the minute they walk in the door. I employ people who have empathy, who listen to what people want, who figure out their perspective and help them get the right answers. We want
to engage people and help them with what they need. That’s true through every aspect of what we do. Even me – I’m always learning even after being here for 40 years. I appreciate everything people have done to make us Boulder Best,” Hurdle said. “They trust us and we do the best we can for them. We appreciate everyone who stepped forward to vote for us.” Runner Up: Art + Soul Gallery, 1615 Pearl Street, Boulder, 303.544.5803, artandsoulboulder.com
BEST LIQUOR STORE
Hazel’s Beverage World
1955 28th Street, Boulder, 303.447.1955, hazelsboulder.com
CU students and Boulder residents named Christina’s Luxuries as Boulder Best this year for the outstanding collection of lingerie, loungewear, sleepwear and swimwear with such high-end brand names as Simone Perele, Marie Jo, Cosabella. Barbara Wilson, owner and manager, said, “We have something for everybody and our customer service is second to none. Each woman who works here is a personal shopper all across the board. We are trained to fit bras from A to G cups; that’s our specialty, and we like to guarantee comfort and satisfaction.”Wilson said, “Boulder has been so good to us. We’d be nothing without our customers. It is fabulous to live and work in this town.”
Hazel’s puts a radically different spin on the liquor store. The locally owned store has over 12,000 selections with 76 cooler doors filled to the brim with macro and micro beers and everything in between. There is wide aisle after wide aisle of wines from around the world and a climate-controlled cellar. Hazel’s has spirits of every kind, from absinthe to tequila, from bourbon to vodka and Boulder’s best cigar humidor. “Hazel’s is a large store that’s fun to visit. It’s so easy to get lost in our aisles of product, which is why we staff great people in each department to help find a certain product and make recommendations,” says Hayley Kamke, director of marketing. “We offer a large assortment of glassware, games, bar accessories, and with the food section we’ve really rounded out what we offer our customer. We always want to thank our customers for making us a destination in Boulder. We hope they stop in to take advantage of our sales, in-store events, and the games and prizes we offer regularly to show our appreciation.”
Runner Up: MayBee’s by Fascinations 3135 28th St., Boulder, 303.442.7309, shopmaybe.com
Runner Up: Liquor Mart 1750 15th St., Boulder, 303.449.3374, liquormart.com
24
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
Colorado Daily
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // SHOPPING & RETAIL
BEST MANI/PEDI
jlounge Natural Nail Bar and Spa 3003 Walnut St., Boulder, 720.484.6669, jloungespa.com
Owners Julie Perington and Jennifer Zrubek created a unique spa experience when they came together a year ago. Jlounge combines relaxation and superior quality spa treatments in a beautiful, clean environment. They have a perfect blend of wellness, natural nails, skin care, facials, massage and beauty in a retreat-like setting with a team of individuals to provide the absolute best in customer service. Jlounge cleanliness 101 includes porcelain non-jetted tubs; selected salts, essential oils and lavender for pedicures; Benefect cleaning products and carefully chosen natural products. Perington explained, “We are a natural, clean and fun
place to get services done. We have a natural line of skincare products as well as new CBD skincare products at the spa. We value our loyal customers and love when they bring their out of town guests in for a celebratory service or just because…we promise to provide the utmost in customer service during every visit!” Runner Up: Polish Nail Salon 2100 28th St., Boulder, 303.546.6207, polishnailsalonboulder. business.site
BEST MEN’S CLOTHING STORE
Weekends
BEST MOVING COMPANY
1200 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.4231, weekendsboulder.com
Taylor Moving and Storage
John Schopbach, owner and men’s buyer, said he believes CU students and other Boulder residents come to Weekends for the selection of denim. “We have the better lines including APC, J Brand, Boglioli, Eton, AG jeans, rag & bone, and Common Projects shoes. We stay very current and shop the markets to find the newest and best. This year we added APC and Stone Island, and we’re always changing our displays, keeping the merchandise fresh and the windows interesting. We are more contemporary than traditional, and we’re always striving for current looks.” Schopbach said that after 27 years “it’s nice that people still like our mix. We’ve evolved all along and we will keep evolving.”
Taylor Moving and Storage is continual winner of recognition for its moving services, thanks to their reputation for trustworthiness, superior service and satisfied customers. Glen and Leah Taylor’s company has been hauling things locally and across the country since 1997. They are packing specialists, trained to perfectly pack your items, from clothes to fragile keepsakes. The packing service includes full or partial packing for moving, unpacking services, moving boxes, tape, packing paper, and bubble wrap available in a range of sizes at a reasonable price. They even offer free pick up of used moving boxes.
Runner Up: Men’s Wearhouse 1600 28th St., Unit 1220, Boulder, 720.565.6006, menswearhouse.com
Runner Up: Boulder All Star Movers 1729 Majestic Drive, #4, Lafayette, 720.308.0966, boulderallstarmovers.com
4949 N. Broadway Street #110, Boulder, 303.443.5885, taylormove.com
Gondolier Italian Eatery Where Going Out Feels Like Coming Home…
We’re thankful and proud to be your 2018 CU & Boulder’s Best Winner for:
Best Italian & Best Pizza
Serving Boulder since 1960 • Delivery • Take-Out • Home Made Pasta
Gondolier Italian Eatery – www.GondolierItalianEatery.com Longmont: (720) 442-0061, 1217 S. Main ST.| Boulder: (303) 443-5015, 4800 Baseline RD. April 2018
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 25
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // SHOPPING & RETAIL
BEST OFF CAMPUS HOUSING/PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
The Habitat Apartments
6255 Habitat Drive, Boulder, 303.530.2212; habitatapts.com
This is the fifth year the Habitat Apartments have been named Boulder Best so you know they’re a Boulder favorite! Property Manager Cori Batson feels that is due to 25 years of sustained local ownership and management. “We are located not too far from downtown but not too close so we can offer amenities that aren’t always found in town,” she said. “That includes huge floor plans, open courtyards and mature landscaping which make it feel uniquely like ‘home.’ We pair wonderful amenities with a beautiful laid-back environment.”New this year is a fire pit area with an outdoor kitchen and the launch of the Habitat’s community gardens and gathering space. Batson added,“Thank you to all of our residents past and present for trusting us with your housing needs and for making The Habitat Apartments such a wonderful place to call home.
BEST NEW STORE
Cedar & Hyde Mercantile 2015 10th St., Boulder, 720.287.3900, cedarandhyde.com
People who discover Cedar & Hyde Mercantile feel they have found one of Boulder’s hidden treasures. Sisters Christie and Poss Lambert created a shopping experience off the beaten path with a eclectic array of high-quality clothing, home decor and gifts. Their focus on smaller artisans, not big names, has allowed them to offer unique merchandise. This year Cedar & Hyde made a significant change. Christie Lambert said, “We used to have a bigger men’s section and we’ve reduced that. We now carry
a few basics for men but we have space for more designers we want to bring in for women such as Jesse Kamm, Lauren Manoogian and Rachel Comey.” Living in Boulder for 20 years has given Christie insight in the community. “People who live in Boulder want to have their own destination and we feel we can serve the community in that unique way. We have some of best customers in the business, and we are so grateful for all the support they have given us. It’s made it possible for us to grow in ways we want to, and we couldn’t do without them.”
Runner Up: Hudson Real Estate, 1200 28th St., # 100, Boulder, 303.442.6380; hremanagement.com
Runner Up: Due South, 802 S. Public Road, Ste. A, Lafayette, 720.638.4047, duesouthhome.com
BEST PET BOARDING
Cottonwood Kennels
7275 Valmont Road, Boulder, 303.442.2602, cottonwoodkennels.com
Rhonda Beitzel, manager, feels one thing that makes Cottonwood Kennel special is the large staff. “They’re amazing,” she said. “They love the animals they work with. We look at every dog or cat as an individual. We find what each one wants to do, we find out what makes them excited and happy, and then we do that. We have a lot of options for dogs and cats.” Beitzel said that for dogs, 26
there are group play and private play areas. “We have a pasture where they can walk around with chickens, ducks, peacocks and sheep. There’s also an agility course, and in the summer there’s a pond for them to splash around in. They can play with toys, show their skills or play in a group with their friends, but they don’t have to. We see a lot of special needs pets – maybe they are
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
old, or nervous around other dogs – and we have flexibility with each dog.” Cottonwood has a cattery too. “Each kitty has its own individual space and they can also explore the cattery. The staff spends time discovering what each kitty likes. During the day they can spend time with other kitties if they want. Some might want to be petted, some might want to chase a laser pointer, or even take a
nap in the sun.” She added, “We want to say thank you to our wonderful clientele, we couldn’t do this without you!”
Runner Up: Broadway Animal Hospital & Pet Center 1405 S. Broadway, Boulder, 303.732.6897, broadwayanimal.com Colorado Daily
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // SHOPPING & RETAIL
BEST PET PRODUCT STORE
BEST PIPE SHOP & BEST RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA
2828 30th St., Boulder, 303.245.9909, pcspantry.com
2801 Iris Ave., Boulder, 303.440.1323, thefarmco.com
P.C.’s Pantry for Dogs & Cats
P.C.’s Pantry for Dogs & Cats, offers food, toys and treats for your furry best friend in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Mary Lee Withers, owner of the pet product store, and her staff of nine welcome cats and dogs and their guardians with treats passed out to the four-legged visitors. “I think it’s my staff that brings people to the store. My staff is excellent,” Withers said. “They enjoy our customer base. They enjoy meeting the dogs and the cats. They know the products well, and they always try to be helpful with customer needs.” The store grew from a small house on Walnut Street in 1998 to the red building at 30th and Bluff streets. It features a bakery and deli with a menu of homemade biscuits, meatloaves and Barkday Cakes for that special day, baked in the kitchen daily. The doggie recipes are created out of natural, human-grade ingredients, free of salt, sugar and preservatives.
April 2018
There are a few wheat-free options like Granola Apple and Yappy Yam, and the gluten-tolerant dog can enjoy pizza and cheese treats, carobdipped peanut butter, brownies and graham crackers. There also is a full selection of healthy pet foods and supplements and a range of other products that includes treats, clothing, bowls, toys, beds, leashes, specialty cleaning items, books, frames and accessories. Runner Up: Only Natural Pet, 2100 28th St., No. 1C, Crossroad Commons, Boulder, 303.449.5069, onlynaturalpet.com
The Farm
The Farm Recreational Marijuana Dispensary is a locally-owned and operated Colorado marijuana dispensary focused on growing clean, potent and natural craft cannabis for adults 21 and over. “Since 2009, The Farm has focused on cultivating only the finest and purest craft cannabis, providing excellence in service and education and making our Boulder community better every day. The combination of those core values is what sets us apart from other dispensaries,” said Adam Dickey, marketing coordinator of The Farm. The Farm keeps up-todate on new cultivation techniques and innovations and employs organic sustainable growing practices, working in small batches with a focus on quality in aroma, flavor and effects. Once the plants start flowering, The Farm, which cultivates 100 percent of its craft cannabis in Boulder, does not apply anything to the plants except for predatory insects and grower attention. The Farm operates as a care center and carries a menu of strains, cannabis concentrates, edibles, topicals, handmade glass accessories and Farm-branded merchandise. A local pioneer in compliance, The Farm helps to shape the movement for responsible consumption of marijuana, serving as an ambassador for ending cannabis prohibition and the negative perception of medicinal cannabis. Runner Up for Best Pipe Shop: Mile High Pipes & Tobacco 1144 Pearl St., 303.443.7473, milehighpipeandtobacco.com Runner Up for Best Recreational Marijuana: Terrapin Care Station 5370 Manhattan Circle, #104, Boulder, 303.954.8402, terrapincarestation.com
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 27
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // SHOPPING & RETAIL
BEST RECORD/ CD STORE
Bart’s Record Shop
1625 Folsom St., Boulder, 303.444.1760, bartsrecordshop.com
BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY
RE/MAX of Boulder
2425 Canyon Blvd., Ste. 110, 303.449.7000, boulderco.com.
RE/MAX of Boulder and its team of 100 Realtors serve the Boulder Valley, helping buyers and sellers navigate different types of real estate transactions. Established in 1977, the company is one of the first RE/MAX franchises in the country, accruing several recognitions over the years, such as being one of the Top 500 Power Brokers in the United States, as listed in the “National Real Estate & Relocation” and “Real Trends” magazines. Regionally, the franchise has received the top award from RE/MAX Mountain States for close to 30 consecutive years. “Our people have made us successful,” said Tom Kalinski, founder of RE/MAX of Boulder. “Our agents place a lot of importance on their clients and serve them with integrity.” More than two-thirds of the company’s transactions are from repeat customers or referrals. The company focuses on service to its clients, to its agents and to the community. Runner Up: 8z Real Estate 4041 Hanover Ave., Ste. 200, Boulder, 303.543.3083, 8z.com
Bart’s Record Shop, in business for 26 years, is the place to grow or shrink your music collection of anything from jazz, soul and reggae to rock, pop, punk and country and a full range of other categories. “What sets Bart’s apart is its longevity,” said Patrick Selvage, manager of the shop. “Unfortunately, most independent records stores from back in the day have not survived. It’s really due to our supportive and eclectic community that we’ve stayed in business all these years.” The shop buys and sells new and used records and compact disks, as well as posters, turntables, 45s and more, changing the offerings each day. Those wanting to sell their collections may not be able to listen to everything but may want someone else to enjoy their cherished box of records or CDs. They typically fall into four categories: inheriting a collection, downsizing the home, wanting to go digital or simply needing cash. They are invited to come to the store to make a sale, or staff will come to their home for a pickup of used records and CDs. The store also transfers LPs, or long plays, to CDs, repairs scratched CDs, fixes damaged turntables and stereo equipment, provides appraisals of record collections for estates and special orders records and CDs.
BEST SECOND HAND STORE
Clutter Consignment
2500 30th St., Ste. 120, Boulder, 303.386.3423, clutterconsign.com
Need to de-clutter a room or two or add a piece of furniture or some home décor to your home? Clutter Consignment is a home furnishings consignment store featuring current, vintage, retro, classic and contemporary furniture and home decor. “Clutter is always full of great furniture and home decor with many recognizable brands, high quality art and a daily influx of consignments,” said Patty Ross, owner of Clutter Consignment. “We are a special place in that we have unique, well-curated items and great customer service.” Clutter’s inventory, which changes daily, includes a full range of offerings from hand-knotted rugs to antique desks, original artwork and crystal wineglasses, all in gently used and clean condition. Consigners are paid a 50-50 split on a monthly basis for the previous month’s sales. Consignments are taken daily, but furniture consignments are preferred Monday to Friday with a picture sent in before a visit to the store. Small items can be brought in anytime, and staff will sort through the items to determine if they can be sold. Runner Up: Rags Consignments, 3129 28th St., Boulder, 303.440.5758, ragsconsignments.com
BEST SHOE STORE
Pedestrian Shops
1425 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.449.5260; 2524 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.449.7440, comfortableshoes.com
Pedestrian Shops, which has two stores in Boulder and one in Denver that opened in March 2018, offers “the most comfortable shoes, sandals, clogs, boots and more” for men, women and children, as stated on the shop’s website. Family-owned in Boulder for more than 45 years, the shop aims to provide the most comfortable brands of footwear, so its customers can enjoy life and take a walk with a spring in their steps. “Something we try to do is to try to have something for everyone,” said Zoe Polk, manager of all three stores. “Boulder has college-age to Baby Boomers and everything in between. We try to offer something that would be good for all ages, and we try to find unique things that are not at every big box store or department store.” The shop strives for quality, selection, service and value, while also being an environmental steward, using recycled shoe boxes for online orders, operating in part on solar energy at the Pearl Street location and implementing a “closed door policy,” keeping the doors shut when the airconditioning is on. Also, the shop holds shoe drives twice a year to help those in need, where customers who donate a pair of shoes receive a 10 percent discount on a new pair. Runner Up: Two Sole Sisters, 1703 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.0404, twosolesisters.com
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CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
Colorado Daily
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // SHOPPING & RETAIL
BEST SUNGLASS & EYEGLASS STORE
BEST VAPOR SHOP
Boulder Vapor House
Aspen Eyewear
1155 13th St., Unit B, Boulder, 720.287.2092, bouldervaporhouse.com
2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.447.0210, aspeneyewear.com
With the largest selection of eyewear in Boulder, Aspen Eyewear wants to help improve vision for those in the Boulder area, offering everything from prescription updates to first-time eye exams. A family-owned and operated retail optical store that opened in 1985, Aspen Eyewear provides onsite eye exams, new and renewed prescriptions for eyeglasses and sunglasses, contact lens fittings, eyeglass repairs and ocular disease management. “We are very customer service-oriented. That’s the biggest difference between us and other optical stores and online purchasing,” said Jennifer Ebner, manager of the practice. “We want to make sure everyone is satisfied, whether we are adjusting glasses for free or giving our specialized optical advice.” Doctors Michael Bollenbacher and Ashley Swalla are the onsite doctors
of optometry; plus, there are multiple opticians, all board certified by the American Board of Opticianry, to assist with appointments. The store offers thousands of frames and a custom lab for on-site customized lens cutting, allowing for same-day service instead of sending the frames off to a lab and making customers wait for days. “It’s just really rewarding when you are able to help someone see, but they also can look good while doing it because we have some amazing frame choices,” Ebner said.
The Boulder Vapor House enlivens the senses with a bit of bliss, greeting customers entering the shop with a robust and diverse scent selection. The tasting bar presents more than 120 flavors of e-liquid from 20-plus industry leading brands, ranging from classic tobacco flavors to fruit flavors and savory desserts. The e-liquids come in a variety of nicotine concentrations, including nicotine-free, and are made from USDA food-grade and FDA pharmaceutical-grade products, free of artificial dyes and questionable ingredients. “We only carry premium bottles,” said Robert Tran, a salesperson at the shop. The shop enlivens the other senses, too, with live music and local art, along with hosting a number of events that include local vape meet-ups with product giveaways, artist launch parties and issue release parties for local publications. “Our big thing here is customer service, and we try to treat our customers how we want to be treated,” Tran said. “Most of our customers become regulars.”
Runner Up: Boulder Vision Center PC, 1645 28th St., Boulder, 303.443.4545, bouldervisioncenter.com.
Runner Up: Smoker Friendly 1620 30th St., Boulder, 303.449.7089, smokerfriendly.com
THANK Y U BOULDER... FOR VOTING US BEST STORE IN BOULDER FOR VOTING USMATTRESS BEST MATTRESS STORE AND COUNTY
BEST GREEN PRODUCT’S STORE IN BOULDER COUNTY
VOTED BEST Of BOULDER Best Bedding/Mattress Store & Best Green Products Store
VOTED #1 MATTRESS STORE SINCE 1999!
BOULDER’s BEsT MATTREss sTORE!
LONgMONT | 455 Weaver Park Rd | 303-651-9024 BOULDER | 3080 Valmont Road | 303-447-1154 visit us online at verlo.com
VOTED #1 MATTRESS STORE SINCE 1999!
Making cars sparkle since
1973
Thank you! LONGMONT
455 Weaver Park Rd | 303-651-9024
BOULDER
3080 Valmont Road | 303-447-1154
ARvADA
8700 Wadsworth Blvd Unit F | 720-465-9641
visit us online at verlo.com April 2018
Puddle Car Wash 3100 28th street in Boulder 303-447-9274 www.puddlecarwash.com CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 29
CU & BOULDER’S BEST // SHOPPING & RETAIL
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you for
voTing pompadours BEST HAir SAlon 13 YEArS in A roW 2006 - 2018
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303-938-8015 1320 Pearl Street, Suite 200
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Call Matt today at 720-310-0641 or e-mail mflood@coloradoboxoffice.com FESTIVALS // CONCERTS // ART // THEATER // FOOD + DRINK
30
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
BEST VETERINARY CLINIC
Broadway Animal Hospital & Pet Center
1405 S. Broadway St., Boulder, 303.499.5505, broadwayanimal.com
Broadway Animal Hospital & Pet Center combines a full-service veterinary practice and animal hospital with a long list of ancillary services, including pet grooming, pet boarding, a doggie day care center and massage and chiropractic appointments. The practice takes in emergency cases and routine medical, surgical and dental issues, making sure to provide close personal attention through every stage of the pet’s care, while offering the most effective tests and treatments. Care is provided by doctors Lee Woods, Aya Alt and Bibi Khalsa, all licensed veterinarians with more than 45 years of combined experience in small animal veterinary medicine. “We treat our patients and our guests like the valued family members they are,” said Mallory Zentner, business manager of the hospital. “We provide customized, personalized care for our patients and our guests, and that really stands out to our clients. We really treat them with compassionate care, and that’s a big part of it, learning about the clients, learning about the pets and making our recommendations based on that.” The hospital is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association, a status attained by approximately 12 percent of animal hospitals nationwide. The practice also is certified as a cat-friendly practice, using stress-free techniques when handling and treating felines. Runner Up: Alpine Hospital for Animals, 3210 Valmont Road, Boulder, 303.443.9661, alpinehospitalforanimals.com
BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE
Anthropologie
805 29th St., #1118, Boulder, 303.449.4575, anthropologie.com
Anthropologie goes beyond the closet to helping its customers dress up the home with unexpected, distinctive finds. The shop offers clothing, dresses, shoes, intimates and accessories, along with furniture, home decor and beauty and wellness items. The assortment of clothing and other items are sourced and crafted to ensure customers bring home something that is unique in style, such as boho chic, easy cool, elegant classic and modern sporty. In the dress shop, there is attire for casual daytime wear, cocktail parties and weddings. “We strive to create an unimagined experience for our customer, and we make it more about shopping for clothes and the whole experience,” said Kate Shilling, store manager. The range of home furnishings is expansive with furniture,
curtains, decorative pillows, duvets, rugs and wall art. The store’s founder, Dick Hayne, current URBN chairman and president, responded to the plea of a friend who was dissatisfied with her shopping options in the suburbs of Philadelphia and wanted a store to indulge her creative side. Hayne, realizing this wasn’t an isolated phenomenon, created a
lifestyle brand catered to “creative, educated and affluent 30 to 45-year-old women,” as stated on the company’s website. The store opened its first shop in 1992 in Wayne, Pa., and now operates more than 200 stores worldwide. Runner Up: Barbara & Company, 1505 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.443.2565, hbarbaraandcompany.net Colorado Daily
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Best Coffeehouse The Laughing Goat RU: Trident
Best Breakfast and Best Diner Doug's Day Diner RU for Best Breakfast: Lucile's Creole Cafe RU for Best Diner: Dot's Diner
Best Dive Bar World Famous Dark Horse Bar and Grill RU: Bluff Street Bar & Billiards
Best Burger and Best Happy Hour Roadhouse Boulder Depot RU for Best Burger: Bluff Street Bar & Billiards RU for Best Happy Hour: The Mediterranean
Best Calzone and Best Late Night DP Dough RU for Best Calzone: Gondolier Italian Eatery RU for Best Late Night: Bluff Street Bar & Billiards
Best Chinese China Gourmet RU: Flower Pepper
April 2018
BEST 18
FOOD & DRINK
Best Bakery and Best Lunch and Best New Restaurant Le French Café RU for Best Bakery: Lucky's Bakehouse and Creamery RU for Best Lunch: BJ's Restaurant RU for Best New Restaurant: Bartaco
Best Brew Pub Avery Brewing Co. RU: Mountain Sun Pub and Brewery
CU & BOULDER’S
Best Classy Bar The Bitter Bar RU: Brasserie Ten Ten
Best Deli/ Sandwich Shop Snarf's Sandwiches RU: Salvaggio's Deli
Best Healthy Eats Fresh Thymes RU: Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant
Best Ice Cream Glacier Homemade Ice Cream and Gelato RU: Sweet Cow Best Indian/Nepalese Kathmandu Restaurant RU: Nepal Cuisine Best Italian and Best Pizza Gondolier Italian Eatery RU for Best Italian: Carelli's Ristorante Italiano RU for Best Pizza: Cosmo's Pizza Best Outdoor Food/Dining The Mediterranean RU: The Lazy Dog Sports Bar & Grill
Best Place to Cure a Hangover Southern Sun Pub & Brewery RU: Village Coffee Shop Best Rooftop Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant RU: The Lazy Dog Sports Bar & Grill
Best Sushi Hapa Sushi Grill & Sake Bar RU: Sushi Zanmai Best Taco Bartaco RU: Pica's Mexican Taqueria Best Thai Alloy Thai Cuisine RU: Buddha Thai Cuisine
Best Seafood Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar RU: Wild Standard
Best Vegetarian Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant RU: Native Foods Café
Best Sports Bar Bluff Street Bar and Billiards RU: The Lazy Dog Sports Bar & Grill
Best Wine Selection Flagstaff House Restaurant RU: Hazel's Beverage World
FLOWERS AND PLANTS
Thanks for Your Votes!!!
Boulder’s Best Florist & Garden Center! 2851 Valmont • 303-442-6663 Mon-Fri 8 to 6, Sat 8 to 5, Sun 10 to 5
www.sturtzandcopeland.com CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 31
20
CU & BOULDER’S
BEST 18
ENTERTAINMENT, HEALTH & FITNESS Best Alternative Caregiver/Dispensery Root MMC RU: Terrapin Care Station
Best Bike Shop Republic Cycles RU: University Bicycles
Best Costume Shop The Ritz RU: Theatrical Costumes, Etc.
Best Cross Fit Gym CrossFit Sanitas RU: CrossFit Beat
Boulder’s Best for Eight Consecutive Years! Thank you, CU & Boulder!
Best CU Student Organization Program Council RU: Radio 1190
Best Dance Club The Avalon Ballroom RU: Tahona Tequila Bistro Best Eye Care Provider Aspen Eyewear RU: Boulder Vision Center Best Local Band Gasoline Lollipops RU: Face Vocal Band Best Martial Arts Studio Easton Training Center RU: Boulder Ki Aikido Best Massage Clinic Bodywork Bistro RU: Dragrontree Spa Best Music Venue Club 156 (Program Council) RU: Boulder Theater
2018 CU & Boulder’s Best Veterinarian 2017 Boulder County Gold Best Vet Clinic 2017 Boulder County Gold Best Pet Grooming 2017 Runner-Up Best Pet Boarding Service
Doggie Day Care • Boarding • Grooming • Chiropractic & Massage Services Progressive Dentistry with Digital Radiography Pet Travel Documents & Preparation 303.499.5505 • 1405 S. Broadway St., Boulder www.BroadwayAnimal.com 32
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
Best Musical Festival ARISE Music Festival RU: Rocky Mountain Folks Festival Best Natural Foods Store Natural Grocers RU: Whole Foods Best Outdoor Gear Store Neptune Mountaineering RU: REI Best Place to Work Out CrossFit Sanitas RU: FitTec Colorado Daily
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CU & BOULDER’S
BEST 18
RETAIL & SHOPPING Best Pool Tables Outback Saloon RU: Sundown Saloon
Best Art Gallery Art + Soul Gallery RU: Smith Klein Gallery
Best Physical Therapy and Best Pilates Alta Physical Therapy & Pilates RU for Best Physical Therapy: North Boulder Physical Therapy RU for Best Pilates: North Boulder Pilates
Best Art Supply Store Guiry's Color Source RU: Meininger
Best Running and Hiking Trail Mt. Sanitas Trailhead RU: Chautauqua Trailhead Best Running Store (TIE) Boulder Running Company & Runner's Roost RU: Newton Running Best Skate Shop Meta Skateboards RU: BC Surf and Sport Best Ski and Snowborard Shop Christy Sports RU: Epic Mountain Gear Best Ski Resort Eldora RU: Copper Mountain Best Spa The Dragontree Spa RU: Spa at St Julien Best Tanning Salon Veranda Sun Best Yoga CorePower Yoga RU: Yoga Pod
April 2018
Best Auto Mechanic Pellman's Automotive Service RU: Hoshi Motors Best Bank and Best Customer Service Elevations Credit Union RU for Best Bank: Chase Bank RU for Best Customer Service: Cottonwood Kennels Best Barber Shop Al's Barber Shop RU: Floyd’s 99 Barbershop Best Bedding/ Mattress Store Verlo Mattress RU: Denver Mattress Co. Best Car Wash Puddle Car Wash RU: 95th Street Car Wash & Detail Center Best Dry Cleaner Art Cleaners RU: John's Cleaners & Laundry
Best Furniture Store HW Home Best Hair Salon and Best Independent Business Pompadours Hair Salon RU for Best Hair Salon: Salon Liquid RU for Best Independent Business: Boulder Bookstore Best Hardware Store McGuckin's Hardware RU: Ace Hardware Best Jewelry Store Hurdle's Jewelry RU: Art + Soul Gallery Best Lingerie Christina’s Luxuries RU: May-Bee's Best Liquor Store Hazel's Beverage World RU: Liquor Mart Best Mani/Pedi J Lounge Natural Nail Bar and Spa RU: Polish Nail Salon Best Men's Clothing Store Weekends RU: Men's Wearhouse
Best Eye Care Envision RU: Aspen Eyewear
Best Moving Company Taylor Moving & Storage RU: Boulder All Star Movers
Best Florist / Garden Center Sturtz and Copeland RU: Fiori Flowers
Best New Store Cedar & Hyde Mercantile RU: Due South
Best Off Campus Housing/Property Management The Habitat Apartments RU: Hudson Real Estate Best Pet Boarding Cottonwood Kennels RU: Broadway Animal Hospital & Pet Center
Best Vapor Shop Boulder Vapor House RU: Smoker Friendly Best Veterinary Clinic Broadway Animal Hospital & Pet Center RU: Alpine Hospital for Animals Best Women's Clothing Store Anthropologie RU: Barbara & Company
Best Pet Product Store P.C.'s Pantry for Dogs and Cats RU: Only Natural Pet Best Pipe Shop and Best Recreational Marijuana The Farm RU for Best Pipe Shop: Mile High Pipe and Tobacco RU for Best Recreational Marijuana: Terrapin Care Station Best Real Estate Company RE/MAX of Boulder RU: 8z Real Estate Best Record/ CD Store Bart's Record Shop Best Second Hand Store Clutter Consignment RU: Rags Consignments Best Shoe Store Pedestrian Shops RU: Two Sole Sisters Best Sunglass & Eyeglass Store Aspen Eyewear RU: Boulder Vision Center
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST 33
FESTIVALS // CONCERTS // ART // THEATER // FOOD + DRINK
APRIL 28
MAY 12
Longmont Laughfest
Sparks & Spirits
Beer, Cider, Spirits & Comedy Showcase
Experience Amazing Arts That Light Up the Night
Saturday, April 28, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 12, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.
300 Suns Brewing, Longmont Presented by Bub Comedy and 300 Suns Brewing
Lafayette Arts Hub, Lafayette Presented by Arts Hub
APRIL 27-28
AUG 24-26
10th Annual
NedFest Music & Arts Festival 2018
FoCoMX – Fort Collins Music eXperiment
Featuring Electric Hot Tuna
Fri., April 27 - Saturday, April 28
Sat., Aug. 24, 5:30 p.m. – Sun., Aug. 26, 9 p.m.
Old Town, Fort Collins Presented by Fort Collins Musicians Association
Jeff Guercio Memorial Ball Field, Nederland Presented by Peak to Peak Music Education Association
For Upcoming Events Or To Purchase Tickets Visit:
COLORADOBOXOFFICE.COM To ticket with ColoradoBoxOffice.com call 303.473.1500 34
CU AND BOULDER’S BEST
Colorado Daily
BOULDER’S BEST FOR OFF CAMPUS HOUSING Love where you live. It’s this idea that drives us to create living spaces that truly fit our residents’ lifestyles. That’s why we’re proud to offer remodeled apartments and townhomes with an array of wonderful features. Like cozy fireplaces and private patios. The largest of their kind in all of Boulder, the Habitat Apartments and Townhomes has something for everybody, with floor plans ranging from studio to three-bedroom units. It gets even better! Our outdoor amenities include a heated swimming pool, a lush picnic area, and, our newest addition, an outdoor kitchen and firepit area. Perfect for warm summer evenings and grilling out with friends, our outdoor area has everything you’re looking for. If you feel like trekking out, you’re in luck. We’re also really close to some of Boulder’s most happening spots, including Twin Lakes, Gunbarrel Commons Park, access to the Boulder Bike Path, and tons of running trails. We’re even walking distance from the neighborhood grocery store, several restaurants, and craft breweries. So come explore your new home! BBQ with friends. Relax on your private patio. And enjoy some scenic Colorado views from the comfort of your home. We promise you’ll love it.
First Range Management Quietly Serving Boulder since 1987
www.habitatapts.com 6255 Habitat Dr. Boulder, CO 80301
303.530.2212
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