MANNY BARELLA
WHAT WE DO ...
Southpaw Electric is an electrical contracting company specializing in commercial, residential and industrial electrical contracting. We are the premier front range Electrical Contractor. With our highlyqualified and licensed electricians we’ll make sure your job is done right. We provide an expertise in the electrical industry from Trouble Shooting and service calls to high end Design Build projects. We offer electrical services to install, maintain, and repair electrical installations as well as Automated Systems, Fire Alarm, Communications, and Computer Networking.
Our dedication to our customers and your project is top-notch. We’ll work with you to make sure all your needs are met and make recommendations to provide a cost effective installation, that brings you the results you are looking for. State licensed in Colorado, owned and operated by a Master Electrician for over 20 years. We are the premier electrical contracting company in Colorado.
Erie, CO. | southpawelectric | 303-419-3710
HELPING PEOPLE NAVIGATE THE FINANCIAL AND NON-FINANCIAL ASPECTS OF CHANGE
Raquel Hinman, CFP® has more than 25 years experience offering financial planning and investment management to people going through a major life transition.
Hinman Financial Planning, Inc. is a fee-only fiduciary that can help you with:
• Retirement planning
• Understanding the impact of an inheritance
• Post-divorce planning
Hinman Financial Planning, Inc. is a fee-only Registered Investment Advisor. We do not sell products or earn commissions. We do provide financial planning and investment solutions that are tailored to your needs, keeping you at the center of the relationship.
About the Editor
Trisha Ventker
Trisha Ventker is a published author, award-winning photographic artist, branding and viral visibitity expert and publisher of Denver, Luxury magazine.
Reader impressions have surpassed 12 million for the magazines, with the Denver Luxury magazine leading readership, being nationwide.
Denver Colorado Luxury magazine has covered 17 major fashion houses, and in addition to the local and international fashion scene, featured are international and fashion travel, local and worldwide celebrities, food and wine, and the bustling Denver art scene.
Ventker is best known for her Amazon best selling book Internet Dates From Hell which had the movie rights optioned by Paula Wagner. Trisha is also one of the first Indie Book authors to have a book optioned for the big screen.
Ventker is originally from New York City, presently residing in Colorado for the last 17 years, with her husband and son.
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Trisha Ventker
CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER
Trisha Ventker CONTRIBUTORS
Richard Carroll
Mary Hill
Brent Karlicek
Tiaja Pierre
Trisha Ventker
trisha@ventkermedia.com
cover photo credit : Trisha Ventker
Feature
An Interview with Top Chef Alumni Manny Barella
Home
Denver Metro Fall Housing Market: A Season of Distinct Contrasts
Fashion
Fashion Designer – Marc Jacobs
Food & Wine
Bruschetta and Wine Pairings
Travel
Mexico City 2: A Taste of Mexico City
The Wigwam Resort Phoenix
Magically Todos Santos and Villa Santa Cruz
Around Town: RiNo: River North Art District & Kimpton Claret Hotel and Sky Lodge at Halo Bar
Health & Beauty
Making Scents
Gift Guide
Must Haves: Travel Gift Ideas
Denver Guide
Hotels, Restaurants, Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches Boutiques and Culture
Contributors
Richard Carroll
“Fashion Designer – Marc Jacobs”
Mary Hill
“Denver Metro Fall Housing Market: A Season of Distinct Contrasts”
Contributors
Brent Karlicek
“Bruschetta and Wine Pairings”
Trisha Ventker
“Mexico City Part 2: A Taste of Mexico City”
“Magically Todos Santos and Villa Santa Cruz”
“The Wigwam Resort Phoenix”
“RiNo: River North Art District” & “Kimpton Claret Hotel and Sky Lodge at Halo Bar
Tiaja Pierre “Making Scents”
FEATURE
FEATURE
Q
Meet Chef Manny Barella
Born in Monterrey, Mexico, Chef Manny Barella left law school to follow his culinary passion, honing his skills in renowned kitchens like Frasca Food & Wine and Uchi. A 2022 James Beard semifinalist and Top Chef Season 21 Top 5 finalist, he’s known for blending bold flavors with deep storytelling. In June 2025, he opened Riot BBQ in Denver with pitmaster Patrick Klaiber, transforming a beloved barbecue space into a vibrant fusion of Monterrey tradition and Texas smokehouse style.
The menu wows with 14-hour smoked brisket tacos on bison tallow tortillas, al pastor pork ribs, and macha slaw, while the atmosphere channels the warmth of family gatherings around the fire. Barella, also president of the Hispanic Chefs Association in Colorado, is as committed to mentorship and cultural pride as he is to creating unforgettable meals.
Chef Manny Barella A with
Photo credit: Hispanic Chefs Association in Colorado
DCultural Roots: Where are you originally from? How has your heritage influenced your culinary style and the flavors you bring to your menus?
MI was born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico. I grew up in a very (very) meat forward culture since my hometown is known for cattle. It has been a beautiful ride of discovery when it comes to vegetables; this has brought me satisfaction in a way that I didn’t experience growing up. Currently, I have a BBQ restaurant that fits perfectly with my upbringing, open fire and meat focused menu. It is a little reminiscent of home and I feel in my natural element - casual, packed with flavor, community oriented.
DEarly Inspiration: What first sparked your passion for cooking, and when did you know it would become your career?
MI think than more than cooking, what got me into food was the pleasure of eating lol... growing up we never went out to restaurants that much, mom cooked a lot at home, so my way to try different cuisines translated more into doing them myself, in my own limited of knowledge version. I dont have the romantic story of cooking with grandma, I actually went to law school first, then realized that my moral compass did not align with what it took to be a prosecutor in Mexico. I wanted to be part of someone’s good day, make people’s day better, and what better way than through food... good food. Not to mention, I think that food is a great way to “travel”, you get to know history and culture of other regions by learning about their food and traditions.
DTraining & Mentorship: Can you share a pivotal moment or mentor from your early training who shaped your approach in the kitchen?
MI will always remember my time at Solage in Calistoga, CA. I was prepping and I had my chef Massimo Falsini, currently chef at Carusos in Santa Barbara, standing a couple feet away from me working on a vinaigrette. Mind you, this guy has earned Michelin stars in Rome, has been cooking for as long as I have been alive... and then he proceeds to try his vinaigrette and get so excited he starts laughing. I was amazed by the fact that someone with so little to prove, so many recipes, so much it
experience could get that excited over something so simple like a vinaigrette; made me want to love food even more. I want to transfer my love for food through my cooking, and share a little bit of who I am with every bite. I hope that when I have been doing it for as long as he has, I still get blown away by a vinaigrette the way he did that day.
DCareer Journey: You’ve cooked in various kitchens before Denver— what were some of the most important stops along your path, and what did each teach you?
MMy dream job for some time was Frasca, it took me 3 years of preparing to get a seat at the table. When I finally got to join the trenches there, I was filled with joy and pride. That job shaped my path and has followed me eveywhere I go. My chefs there, Eduardo Vallelobo and Kelly Jeun were great mentors, and now friends, and every time I cook something, I ask myself what would they say about it. Their standards are incredibly high, but so are mine thanks to them. Another life shaping moment was when I got approached to open a Mexican restaurant and write the menu. That is when my career really took off. I got to represent my country with the food I grew up eating, and people were loving it. Bellota (the restaurant) was what began this beautiful journey that exploded into some of the best experiences and memories I have ever had.
DDefining Challenges: What was the biggest challenge you faced early in your career, and how did overcoming it make you the chef you are today?
MI was on a J1 visa (student visa) for 1 year at a time, so eveytime it was over, I had to go to Mexico and apply for the next one, go to a new city, new restaurant, new apartment... over and over again. In one of those visas, TN this time (3 year), I got fired for what I still consider wrong place at the wrong time, and as a 30 year old man, life as I knew it was over. I got my visa cancelled and had 10 days to leave the country. I had been an adult in USA for longer than in Mexico; couldnt even sleep in “my room” at my parents house because I felt like a guest. It took me 9 months and working as a telemarketer in Mexico to find another visa that would bring me back to the country. I landed in Napa Valley to one of the most emotionally soul-sucking jobs I have ever had... but hey, I was back, that was all that mattered. So I put my head down, I was grateful for another chance, and made it my purpose to make the most out of it.
Pitmaster Patrick Klaiber & Chef Manny Barella
DTop Chef: Tell us about your time on Top Chef?
MIt has been the most rewarding and challenging experience of my career. It opened doors I didnt even know existed and most importantly, connected me with some of the closest people in my life right now. One of the results that I am the most grateful for is the fact that I can tell other immigrants that IT IS POSSIBLE... there’s an opportunity for everyone here and if you work hard enough, treat people right, and have a little bit of luck, you can make an impact in this country. I grew so much as a chef during my time there, and I will be eternaly grateful for the opportunity of telling my story.
DSignature Dish Story: If you could choose one dish that best represents your artistry and heritage, what would it be, and what’s the story behind it?
MMy esquites “risotto”. Growing up there was this old guy that would ride a bicycle with a grill in the front (yes, I know...) and he had this little bell that everyone knew that it meant he was close, like an ice cream truck. As you approached him, you could smell the burnt cornhusk and that smell there has always brought me home. In this dish, I burn tortillas and make tortilla ash, then I make an aioli with the ashes that I fold into the corn that is being cooked risotto style for a creamy, slighlty bitter, citrusy mexican street corn dish that I grew up eating out of styrofoam cups, and ended up serving it on nice china at restaurant filled with people that wanted to try my food.
DLooking Ahead: You’ve already made a name for yourself in Denver’s culinary scene— what’s next for you, and how do you envision the next chapter of your career unfolding?
MI dont want it to stop in Denver... or USA for that matter. My goal is that when people in Mexico talk about chefs outside of the country representing our culture, my name is in the mix. I am interested in legacy, in paying it forward. I want to help the next generation of Hispanic
cooks accomplish what they desire. On a personal level, I want to erradicate the stigma of sacrificing a healthy family for a successful restaurant. I think success is measured in happiness, and I am the happiest with my family. “Chef Manny” stays at the restaurant and the occasional event, but when I am at home, I am a dad, a husband, a brother, a friend... That is how I envision my career unfolding, with a healthy balance of this beautful path I chose for myself with my career and the path I chose with my family and myself outside of being a chef.
HOME
HOME
“Denver Metro Fall Housing Market: A Season of Distinct Contrasts”
Mary Hill
Denver
Metro Fall Housing Market: A Season of Distinct Contrasts
Mary Hill
Broker/Realtor
Mary Hill Properties
Denver Metro Fall Housing Market: A Season of Distinct Contrasts
This fall, the Denver metro housing market for single family homes reveals itself as a portrait of contrasts. Inventory levels and days on market are trending upward, yet pricing has shown remarkable stability-a testament to the market’s underlying resilience, even amid reduced buyer activity.
New Listings: A Nuanced Landscape
•Year-over-year: New listings increased 5.07%.
•Month-over-month: A decline of 13.57% in new listings.
•Active listings: Rose 0.76% from last month and an impressive 31.7% from last year.
The modest 0.76% month-end inventory increase illustrates a key reality—well priced, well-presented homes continue to sell swiftly, particularly in sought-after neighborhoods.
Pricing: A Measured Adjustment
In July 2025, the average single-family home price settled at $782,224, a 4.69% decline from June’s $820,701. Year-over-year, the reduction was measured at 1.08%, suggesting a gentle market recalibration rather than a downturn.
Market Pace: Slower, Yet Competitive
Median days on market increased by six days compared to July 2024, and the average days on market rose eight days, reaching 36 days. This remains well below the 90-day pace of a balanced market-maintaining a competitive edge for desirable properties.
For Buyers
Expanded inventory offers an unprecedented level of choice. Buyers can afford to be discerning, wait for the right property, and negotiate with confidence. Seller concessions, once rare, are becoming more common-making this an ideal moment for strategic acquisitions.
For Sellers
Fall historically draws sellers with genuine motivation to move. Presentation is paramount:
•Professional staging to highlight architectural and lifestyle appeal.
•Resolution of visible defects to reassure buyers.
•Pre-listing inspections to build buyer confidence and streamline negotiations. Pricing competitively is essential; overpricing in today’s market can stall momentum.
The Outlook for Fall
This is a market where strategy wins. Buyers have time and leverage; sellers who present their homes impeccably can still command premium offers. If interest rates decline as anticipated, expect a noticeable lift in activity heading into the year’s end. Mortgage rates remain the market’s key influence, shaping both buyer psychology and transactional velocity.
Stats taken from RECOL on August 1, 2025
Mary has been a realtor since 2016. She specializes in maximizing the return on your home your largest investment. If she isn’t selling or showing homes you will find her playing poker, watching college basketball games or spending time with her family.
direct: 303.808.7796 email: mary.hillgroup@gmail.com
FASHION
FASHION
Richard Carroll
Fashion Designer – Marc Jacobs
“I had a lot of challenges and that makes you stronger.”
Elie Tahari
“Fashion Designer – Marc Jacobs”
Richard Carroll
Marc Jacobs life and career was filled with improbable fluctuating swings while endowed with surging talent and forte, and life-changing decisions, to create a fashion voice that made its mark. Highly gifted with a powerful and prevalent observer of lifestyles, art and literature, Jacobs is well-read, an exceptional writer, and incessantly lives life in a grand style. Enormously popular, a creative genius with a robust sense of humor, and to some a legend, and a celebrity in the fashion world, has also had to face the challenges of success. Marc Jacobs would make a captivating and absorbing documentary with the lead character, blessed with looks like an actor or rock star, with an intriguing personality, and oozing with the brilliant gift of virtuosity, to fully capture the essence of the fashion designer.
Born in New York City in 1963, to a secular, Ashkenazi-heritage Jewish family. When he was seven his father an agent of the William Morris Agency died, from Ulcerative Colitis, an overwhelming blow to Jacobs, while his mother, Judy, according to Jacobs and widely quoted, “She was mentally ill and really didn’t take care of her kids,” With failed marriages, Jacobs, and his brother and sister were forced to move with reach remarriage from New Jersey to Long Island and the Bronx. When he was a teenager, he finally left home to live with his paternal Grandmother, Helen, on the Upper Westside of Manhattan in an apartment on Central Park West. She was artistic, educated, and well-traveled, and was quick to recognize, and support, Jacobs’ creative fashion talents. His siblings, Julie and Paul, were sent to foster care in New Jersey.
Fashion Intensifying
Charivari 72, a fashionable clothing store chain, at the time, selling avant-garde creations, in 1979, opened their fourth store on the Upper West Side at 81st and Columbus. Jacobs, age 14, enthusiastic and vivacious, visited the store nearly every day during construction, becoming an unrelenting pest, asking when they are going to open, and asking for a job. Finally, on opening day he hunted down fashion designer Perry Ellis for his autograph, and requesting suggestions on how to become a fashion designer.
Upscale Charivari’s finally relented and hired Jacobs, as a fashion-fascinated stock boy, possibly with a good word from Grandmother Helen. Jacobs attended the New York High School of Art and Design during the day, and after school working at Charivari’s, stocking clothes, absorbing the passion and energy of the store, designing sweaters in the evenings, and graduating in 1981. His background and creativity, a fashion positive, he entered the Parson’s School of Design, and won the Perry Ellis Gold Thimble Award. With his Grandmother’s help, she assisted with the original sample for his Senior Collection at Parsons, and Jacobs was the Design Student of the Year, graduating in 1984.
The Grunge Collection
Influenced by Halston, Coco Chanel, and Yves Saint Laurent, in 1984, at age 21, he launched his first collection, and became the youngest designer ever to win the New Fashion Talent Award granted by the Council of Fashion Designers of America. During a four-year run at Perry Ellis, as the Women’s Wear Designer, he was honored with the prestigious 1992 CFDA prize for Womenswear Designer of the year, an award he would win again. But regardless of his talent and awards, his Grunge Collection in the Spring, 1993, at age 29, influenced by the streetwear in Seattle at the time, was a fashion blockbuster, critics hated the show with top models, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, and Christy Turlington walking the runway, wearing combat boots, flannel shirts, beanies, colorful, street-alley prints, clothes in muli-layers, and odd proportions. Jacobs was mixing street dress and music aesthetes into fashion. He said, “I wanted to try something different and mix it up, and I never thought I would be fired.” Perry Ellis did give him his walking papers, but the Grunge Collection had a positive upward step in Marc Jacobs career, as a forward-thinking designer, and as seen today, the prevalent fashion trend with ripped and torn jeans, knees protruding, that swept the country.
Challenging Times
Jacobs opened his first boutique in 1997 on Mercer Street in downtown Manhattan’s Soho District, the Marc Jacobs label soon proved a success, with Julia Roberts, his first customer. He was also hired as Louis Vuitton’s Artistic Director in 1997, being the first American to head a French luxuryline, a position he held for 16 years. His famed style a blend of classic elegance and edginess, and with a celebrated individuality through bold designs are his hallmark. However, his successful achievements, and physical pressure at an early age was like a dark cloud ready to explode, and with a high social profile in New York City, and Paris, he became involved with alcohol and drugs, his personal life moving into a terrifying tailspin. His close-knit group of friends worried about him, insisting something should be done about his drug and alcohol addictions. He checked into rehab in 1999, and strong again, he launched Louis Vuitton’s first Ready-to-Wear line, while expanding his own line. He entered rehab again in 2007, and then with recurring bouts of Ulcerative Colitis, inherited from his father, he changed his lifestyle, exercising for the first time ever, and junk food is replaced by healthy selections, and with his new active lifestyle, unfortunately, he had a hernia operation caused by overexercising.
Moving Forward
Health problems aside, he designed suits and luggage for the film The Darjeeling Limited, collaborated with Playboy on limited-edition tee shirts, and in 2007, launched an award-winning fragrance, Daisy Wild, named after Daisy Buchanan from F. Scott Fitzgeralds, The Great Gatsby. In 2010, Jacobs opened Bookmarc on Bleecher Street in Manhattan’s West Village, offering a highly curated selection of books, fine art, film, fashion, photography, and rock & roll. He introduced the Kiki boot in 2010, reintroduced the Grunge Collection in 2018, and a year later the Tote Bag. Forever an avid New Yorker, Jacobs shares a home with his husband, Charly DeFrancesco, in a historic and beautifully restored Frank Lloyd Wright home in Rye, New York.
Richard Carroll is a nationally known travel writer honored with eight international writing awards. Richard has covered all seven continents, and with family heritage dating to early Colorado.
Credits: Model - Ashlee Stephenson
Designer: Andreas Tsagas
Photographer: Robert Grey (Athena Underground)
FOOD&WINE
FOOD&WINE
The Gilded Sip
B&GC
in Halcyon Hotel Cherry Creek
b&gcdenver.com
B&GC, a clandestine drinking spot located beneath Halcyon, a hotel in Cherry Creek, prides itself on a beverage program that features meticulously crafted classic cocktails and playful, well-executed originals in a hideaway that oozes mystique and allure. B&GC is a celebration of the type of cocktailing and revelry often reserved for the elite, wealthy and powerful.
Adding to its low-lit, glamourous legacy is the brand-new, $2.5K Gilded Martini. Not just a cocktail, The Gilded Martini is a keepsake. Kept on display in a custom lock case until its next rightful owner claims it, The Gilded Martini features Gold Infused Monkey 47, Belvedere 10, house vermouth blend, olive oil and a 24k gold sheet garnish, and it’s adorned with a one-of-a-kind GNAT Jewelry Atelier 14 karat yellow gold paperclip necklace with a solitaire diamond (normally a $5,000 piece). Perfect for a birthday, anniversary or one of life’s little “just because” luxuries.
The Gilded Martini was created by the B&GC team and was made possible due to the partnership with GNAT Jewelry Atelier. The Gilded Martini is made to order and guests can order this drink simply by asking a server or bartender, and the team plans to make more after the original one is bought.
The Guilded Martini
$2,500.00
A sip of legacy. This $2.5K martini isn’t just a cocktail— it’s a keepsake. Adorned with a one-of-akind Gnat jewelry piece, each sip is a moment, each garnish a treasure.
Discover award-winning wines from California and Colorado in our tasting rooms, paired with local bites and tailored experiences. Enjoy wine by the glass, flight, or bottle, perfect for the season. Holiday gifts? We've got bottles, club memberships, and date nights covered! Host your holiday or corporate party with us for an unforgettable experience.
Conde Nast Traveler
photos courtesy of Postino Wine Cafe
Bruschetta and Wine Pairing Recommendations
Brent Karlicek, Advanced Sommelier and VP of Beverage at Upward Projects (Postino’s parent brand)
Prosciutto, Fig & Mascarpone Bruschetta > Viso, Barbera-Nebbiolo, Italy.
Viso’s vibrant personality shines alongside the harmonious balance of salt, fat, and sweetness of the prosciutto, fig, and mascarpone bruschetta. Layers of ripe plum, black cherry, and delicate violets mirror the dish’s richness and depth, while the wine’s lively acidity and supple yet confident tannins bring every element into graceful harmony — a pairing as indulgent as it is unforgettable!
Brie, Apple & Fig Spread Bruschetta > Perfekt, Riesling, Germany.
Juicy, tart green apple — softened by the sweet, creamy richness of Brie and fig spread — creates the perfect canvas for the aromatic, dry, and effortlessly drinkable charm of Perfekt Riesling.
Smoked Salmon & Pesto Bruschetta > Ebbio Sparkling Rose of Pinot Nero, Italy.
Ebbo’s vibrant aromas and flavors of cherry and strawberry, lifted by a touch of salinity and refreshing acidity, beautifully complement the salty-richness of cold-smoked salmon and the herbaceous backbone of pesto. From a leisurely brunch to a late-night bite, this pairing delivers pure pleasure at any time of day.
Mushroom & Mascarpone Bruschetta > Routestock, Pinot Noir, California.
Savory mushrooms and the velvety richness of mascarpone find perfect harmony with the bright red cherry, forest floor, and subtle spice of Routestock Pinot Noir. Its radiant acidity and gentle tannins balance each bite, delivering a pairing that embodies both comfort and elegance.
*Check Postino’s website for all Colorado & other state locations: postinowinecafe.com
TRAVEL
TRAVEL
Magically Todos Santos at Villa Santa Cruz
Trisha Ventker
Magically Todos Santos at Villa Santa Cruz
Trisha Ventker
The broad, expansive beach, like a misty illusion, seemed to reach to the horizon. The Pacific Ocean, challenging, dangerous, and incredibly striking, was casting a deep, luxuriant blue, while ruffled, wind-blown waves swept onto the shore, as sandpipers, feathers dry, gracefully danced around the waves searching for snails and crustaceans in the wet sand. Sea birds in tight formation fly low on the waves, gliding in the gusty airstream, the setting of ocean and sky speaking to me in a low, salty whisper: looks are deceiving, swimmers beware. While further up the coast at La Pastoria, a few agile surfers with boundless balance are swept into the curl of the waves, riding high as if attached to a kite.
The rhythm of the earth and the wide stretch of sandy beach are both alluring and captivating, as is all of Todos Santos, and I was gently pulled in with a big abrazo. The village is a little over an hour’s drive from Los Cabos via Hwy. 19, and for the editorial coverage, traveling with friend Lisa Alvarez, who also speaks conversational Spanish. I booked Villa Santa Cruz, five miles north of Todos Santos, a luxurious, 20-acre boutique property overlooking the Pacific and, for me, among the preeminent stretches of shoreline in all Mexico. An unparalleled night sky is revealing millions of sparkling stars lighting up the sky in a blaze of iridescence, and where sky bathing is for the heart and soul.
Intentional elegance on the edge of the Pacific
When Lisa and I touched down in Baja Sur, we weren’t looking for a getaway, we were searching for something deeper: a reconnection, peace, and beauty. And what we discovered at Villa Santa Cruz wasn’t an escape, it was a love story, a sanctuary, a whisper from the wild Pacific saying, “Slow down, you’re home.” This was my second visit to Todos Santos, the first being a spontaneous day trip with my husband and son, driving from Los Cabos, and lured by murmurs of surf, art, and color. Even in that brief encounter, I felt the Todos Santos imprint touching my heart. Returning with my friend Lisa, it felt like a full-circle moment, like returning to a place I hadn’t finished loving yet.
The property affiliated with Small Luxury Hotels opened in 2009, and is a sparkling diamond in the desert, with enough space to farm everything from agave and mangoes to lettuce and tomatoes, offering 24 guest rooms and suites, two heated saltwater pools, including an 82-foot lap pool, and an onsite stable home to six horses. who grasp both Spanish and English. We arrived to a warm welcome by smiling Azu, who is the heartbeat of guest relations, and stepped into what felt like a living dream, a Tented Ocean Suite, just feet from crashing waves, wild yet refined, private yet deeply connected to nature. I felt there was nothing artificial about this luxury setting, it was international elegance at its finest. We noticed remarkable aspects from the moment we set foot on the property, noting every detail is cared for, from the perfectly raked sand pathways and hand-trimmed flora to the delicate handmade ceramic pottery on each table and the softest linen tucked just so. Browsing among the villa’s landscape, it was like I was aloft and gliding and gently guided by splendor, and a masterclass of harmony, laid out with a designer’s eye and a gardener’s soul.
Villa Santa Cruz
Magically Todos Santos at Villa Santa Cruz
Green Room Dining
Enjoying our ocean-side accommodations, the ceaseless waves breaking in a soft crescendo, the Green Room dinner on our first night sealed the magic. The customized restaurant is set directly on the beach, where we dined with our toes in the sand the hanging lights swaying in the sea breeze above us. It’s one of those rare places that feels both effortlessly relaxed and impossibly special. The Green Room is a treasured dining experience that draws guests from near and far, and not just for the creative cuisine, but for the villas’ heartfelt spirit and passion. Beneath a canopy of stars, we met the owners, Matt and Jessica Canepas, Joyce Marreros and their PR team and shared a feast: Shrimp Dumplings laced with tangy coconut and chile cream, and sashimi-style Temari, followed by a tender Truffle-Topped Flank Steak on crispy rice, and seafood caught today. Lisa ordered a refreshing Green Room Mezcal cocktail created with grapefruit, cucumber, and basil. I soaked in the setting while sipping a tall lemonade, the bracing salt air alive with goodness, the candlelight’s flickering, the all-encompassing murmur of breaking waves, and the sense that this wasn’t solely a hotel, it was someone’s dream.
The Birth of a Villa
The soul of Villa Santa Cruz began in 2001, when founder Matt came across a stretch of gorgeous raw beachfront in Todos Santos with no roads or infrastructure, just open land, endless ocean, and beyond picture-perfect, a stunning beach. Realizing the potential, Matt purchased the property with nothing more than a vision and a leap of faith. In 2006, Jessica arrived, fell deeply in love with Matt, and together, with great prudence and foresight, understanding international hospitality, the intriguing and varied culture and Mexican lifestyle, they worked to create their vision of Villa Santa Cruz, which for me is an absolute gold star winner. They raised their two children on-site in a private home tucked unobtrusively on the grounds. The Canepas family life is a separate story, the villa is not just a workplace for them, it’s where they live, and where they have created a family with a purpose. In the years that followed, the villa personality flourished when frequent guests Joyce and Guillermo Marreros, fell in love with the ethos, or spirit, of the villa, and eventually joined as co-owners, investing in the continued growth and care of Villa Santa Cruz. Joyce walks the villa like a steward of the grounds, sharing stories over breakfast, and also watching the worker bees, and celebrating the birds.
Day Two
We were greeted by an exquisite Baja morning, an offshore breeze rippling the ocean, the swish of the waves establishing a mood of tranquility, and well-being. Coffee is delivered tent-side, a surprising and thoughtful ritual for me, and followed by breakfast at Caracara, a bright, open-air restaurant named for the crested Caracara, a majestic bird that roams the Baja sky. We dined under an artistic palapa-style structure, a kind of architectural cocoon adorned with chandeliers and earthy textures, airy and elegant, grounded in nature yet elevated in every way. Joyce joined us to tell us more of the villa’s story, and how it evolved from a few rooms into an eco-conscious, soul-stirring destination that honors the land it rests upon.
A Bountiful Greenery Spread
Our eyes were opened touring the villa’s working farm on a sun-drenched stretch of land teeming with herbs, edible flowers, leafy greens, tomatoes, and squash, among others, and tended to with intention and care. I realized, this isn’t farm-to-table for trend’s sake, but rooted in reverence. Every bite at Caracara and The Green Room is a celebration of the villa’s bountiful land. The lettuce is more flavorful, the mint more vibrant, the tomatoes more sun-kissed, and thanks to the villa, the cuisine is wholesome and nourishing. We also learned about the biodiversity of the region, such as snapdragons, lavender, cardon cactus, hummingbirds, roadrunners, elf owls, and, of course, the majestic Caracara. The property is alive, curated by nature and nurtured by a team that genuinely cares.
Paul, our guide, also shared with us the rooftop villas with sweeping views, serene bungalows tucked into nature, and open-air stables, where guests can arrange horseback rides on the beach or a gentle riding lesson. The rhythm of hooves on sand, under the golden Baja sky, felt like a love letter to a slower, more cinematic way of life. But for those who desire a bit of spirited competition, the villa recently added a beautifully kept pickleball court, a thoughtful layer of leisure, and if you’re up for a quick match at sunrise or a sunset rally, the setting elevates the sport into something unruffled.
Todos Santos (All Saints)
During the afternoon we visited the colorful heart of Todos Santos, population 7,000, home of the historic Neustra Senora del Pilar de la Paz church, founded as a mission in 1724, housing the statue of the Virgin of Pilar, which is the focus of Todos Santos’ festival in November. During the 19th century, the village thrived as the Baja sugarcane capital, with eight sugar mills, the last mill closing in 1965. In the mid-1980’s the highway from Los Cabos to Todos Santos was finally paved, opening the village to the world. We walked Playa de Armas, which is the main square with a theater, culture center and museum, and throughout Todos Santos there are an incredible 25 or more art Galleries, (I stopped counting at 20), offering fine art, handcrafted pottery, colorful apparel, silver jewelry, and nicely carved wood art pieces. Artist studios, craftspeople, and writers searching for their voice are thriving, with the sense of creativity swirling in Todos Santos, anchored by an arts festival in February.
Hotel California—such a lovely place
We popped in to the Hotel California for a Mexican pizza, and couldn’t help but think about the Eagles, and the hotel made famous, or at least well-known, by the famed Eagles hit, “Hotel California,” though unfortunately, the Eagles never visited Todo Santos, nonetheless, Hotel California lives on. The hotel was opened in 1950 by Mr. Wong, a Chinese immigrant, who also opened Todo Santos’ first gas station, and regardless of the Eagles, Hotel California is a popular gathering destination for visitors and residents alike, offering a large boutique, a busy bar, and restaurant.
Caracara Dinner
Back at the villa, Caracara’s wood-burning oven and grill was busy with Blue Corn Empanadas filled with arrachera marinated in lime and garlic, and a Tres Leches Cake that was so soft and ethereal it seemed to disappear on my tongue. It was also time to pull the surrounding setting around me in a tight squeeze, and fully appreciate the goodness of nature, the remoteness of the moment, Mexican hospitality, and the dream that created the villa.
Magically Todos Santos at Villa Santa Cruz
Day Three
Day three we fell further into Baja’s rhythm, which was a slow, sun-soaked morning by the pool, and a lunch of Baja Fish Tacos and guacamole, shared with laughter and herbal-infused lemonade. Late afternoon we met Azu for a mezcal tasting, that unfolded like a masterclass of culture, flavor, and ancestry. Azu, a fourth generation mezcalera from Guerrero, who spoke of Mayahuel, the Aztec goddess of agave and transformation. Her words were not unlike the reverence of poetry, as we sipped smoky Montelobos blends from Oaxaca and Puebla, and we also crafted the Rosalia, infused with rosemary, agave syrup, lime, mezcal, tajin rim, and a splash of Topo Chico, which was spicy and bold. The evening dinner felt like a final act of sensory indulgence: tomato and burrata “clouds,” burrata being a rich, sweet, creamy cheese. Next was a delightful Lobster Risotto infused with cognac and wild mushrooms, a side of Truffled Potatoes arrived, and a Seared Filet, finished with a velvety and tangy béarnaise sauce. Each plate sang of Baja’s bounty, and the team’s creativity behind every choice.
Departure Day
Our final morning was a special sacred Temazcal ceremony, an ancient indigenous sweat ritual, practiced by ancient civilizations including the Maya, Aztecs, and Toltecs in Mexico and Central America, that was used to heal the sick and welcome the summer and winter solstice. Lisa participated in the darkened hut-like structure, invoking renewal, rebirth, and cleansing, and it was a memorable highlight. Villa Santa Cruz is in the planning process to build a complete Wellness Center complete with a gym, cold plunge, dry sauna, treatment rooms, and locker facilities. However, on this trip the deeply relaxing massage therapy sessions left us floating.
On our trip to the Los Cabos Airport, wind in our hair and the sun warming our skin, I realized that I didn’t just relax in Villa Santa Cruz, but I remembered who I was, what mattered in life, and how it feels to be held by a destination, and that’s the magic of the villa, it doesn’t just host you, it holds you, and it’s a reminder that luxury, when done right, doesn’t shout, it whispers, inviting you to be, to listen to the waves, to taste the earth, to slow down, and to come back, not just to Baja Sur, but to yourself. We experienced unparalleled service, as did other guests. Every employee I spoke with or encountered, be it the gardeners, chefs, or servers, greeted us with a smile and warmth, and a knowing presence that made us feel less like guest and more like honored friends.
When You Go
Travel is extremely personal and challenging, and a travel companion can either make or break a trip, which I’ve seen happen on numerous trips throughout the world. On this location, my travel companion, Lisa, was the type of person who makes travel feel effortless. She’s thoughtful and curious, and a genuinely great conversationalist, bringing out the best in everyone. She helped me to capture the moments I might’ve missed, through her photography and intuition. Whether it was a perfect golden light showering the tent or a subtle thought in the mezcal tasting, I’d forgotten to include in my notes, she reminded me of the detail. Traveling with Lisa was easy and grounding, and I’m grateful to have shared this chapter of my life with her.
Timeless Luxury in Downtown Denv
DAILY AFTERNOON TEA | LIVE MUSIC | ATRIUM COCKTAILS
Mexico City Part 2: A Taste of Mexico City
Trisha Ventker
Migrante Executive Chef Fernando Martinez Zavala
Mexico City Part 2: A Taste of Mexico
Trisha Ventker
It was a lux culinary journey to Mexico City. A city that is long noted for its culinary expertise, and where, for many residents and visitors alike, dining is a revered lifestyle. A boundless joy, for me, is reporting, and taking immense pleasure in the creativity of the chefs, who draw from the country’s legendary rich and diverse regions, and each with a specific culinary specialty. A cuisine that varies dramatically from coast to coast, the saying with epicureans is that it all comes together in Mexico City, where dining is nicely crowned with an international touch, and I wholeheartedly agree. Mexico brought chocolate to Europe, is renowned for a unique selection of soups, such as Sopa de lima, a traditional soup from the Yucatán, originating from the Maya culture, and mole Poblano, the national dish of Mexico. In the 17th century, mole was introduced by Sister Andrea at the Santa Rosa Convent in Puebla. Mole, with deep layers of taste and various tangy flavors, is utilized by numerous chefs throughout the world, while the famed Mole Madre is aged for over 1,000 daysand is a Mexicanculinary luxury.
Michelin-star haven
Mexico City has nine Michelin-star restaurants, and numerous others a step away from the honor, though in time I believe the Michelin Stars will more than double here. We explored the city, from buzzing streets lined with taco stands to elegant cocktail lounges hidden behind unassuming facades, and extended is a sensory overload in the most conceivable way. Over one vibrant weekend we experienced the capital’s culinary richness, from street selections, and inspired haute cuisine, to mezcal tastings guided by informative culinary experts. Here is how a food lover’s dream unfolded across three unforgettable days, along with two close friends, Lisa and Sanji. Our Mexico City dining journey began when we booked in at Central Hoteles, and I reported on the excellent Balcon del Zocalo restaurant and Chef Pepe Salina, found on the top floor of the hotel. (Please see Part One, Mexico’s Historic Corner, summer issue 2025.)
Friday, a Feast for the Senses
Breakfast was at the hotel’s café, which was a soft opening to what would become a day of bold indulgence, starting with fresh baked croissants with or without ham and cheese, and choosing from a selection of hot steaming coffees, with Chiapas near the Guatemalan border, noted for growing Mexico’s high-quality coffee beans, as well as Veracruz and Oaxaca. Following breakfast, we explored the pulsating and affluent Roma district, noted for luxury shopping, chic art galleries, lined with designer boutiques, fashion, and dining options. This distrcit is west of Mexico City’s historic center. It is divided into two colonies: Roma Norte and Roma Sur.
Migrante was our lunch selection, a celebrated entry in the Michelin Guide, led by Executive Chef Fernando Martinez Zavala. Migrante is tucked into a tree-lined street in Roma Norte with an open kitchen, nicely placed wood tables, and offering a dazzling fusion of flavors and artistry. The name Migrante, which could mean, in this format, a mixture of various cultures that make up the country, and appropriately the restaurant has a brick wall decorated with a world map. Chef Zavala fuses Mexican ingredients with Asian and contemporary flavors. The fish, I noticed, is cooked in charcoal, and throughout the busy room, smiling faces. We eased into the dining experience with drinks as unique as the city itself.
Mexico City Part 2: A Taste of Mexico
Friday, a Feast for the Senses
The three of us began with an impressive blend of beverages. I sipped on a non-alcoholic Pardela with Almave, a non-alcoholic tequila, and subtle notes of coffee, chocolate, and salt. Sanji’s Coraje was a tropical blend of Tres Generaciones Tequila, while Lisa selected a golden-hued Polanco sparkled with Mandarin liqueur, gin, and a splash of tonic. Our amiable servers, Kevin and Andre, guided us through a luxurious tasting menu that accented Chef Zavala’s artistic skill, with a dazzling fusion of flavors. A spicy crab tartlet spiked with homemade yuzu kosho, a captivating Japanese citrus paste with chili peppers and sea salt, offered layers of taste. A surprise was the Foie Gras Churros, a clever culinary assimilation of France and Mexico. Churros are the Mexican version of a donut, popular at breakfast, and found at food stands throughout the city. A Sweet Shrimp Tartare arrived, topped with Uni, the Japanese term for sea urchin, rich and creamy with a sweet nutty undertone. Next on the delightful tasting menu was Aged Totoaba, a fish found in the Sea of Cortez, considered a delicacy in Chinese cuisine, with amazake, a sweet fermented rice, and a daub of green curry. We concluded the dining, which, from beginning to end, was an explosion of flavor, elegance, and invention, with a dessert of caramel, miso, cacao flower, and mandarin. The creative genius of Chef Zavala, whose love of Mexico, and worldwide flavors, is awe-inspiring, who crafts tastes from his world of travel.
El Zocalo
Back at the Central Hoteles and the illustrious Balcon del Zocalo, the historic center of the city, that seems to pull us in as if there is a huge magnet attached to our shoes. Residents say the Zocalo is the heart and soul of the country, a living, breathing entity with a changing personality, where all of Mexico City’s life passes through, its everlasting stones trod upon since 1524. Distinguished as the second largest in the world, and home to the largest cathedral in Latin America, however, to me, it’s the flow of people from every stage in life: musicians eager to perform, lovers, arm-in-arm, passionate vendors with eye contact, visitors bringing an incredible mix of languages, a nicely dressed woman wearing a Gucci suit carrying an expensive briefcase, next to a young Maya boy who looks lost, holding a guitar missing a string, and each person, with a reason to be there.
Barolo, Roma Norte
Dinner was also recommended in the Roma neighborhood at the highly rated Barolo, admired by the Chilangos, or residents, and named after an Italian wine region. The atmosphere, with a sultry vibe, was dimly lit and welcoming, and, upon entering, we were met by enticing complex aromas. Remarkable cocktails set the tone. Next, we had the honor to meet the world renowned chef, Rafael Prado. Sanji’s take was an espresso martini infused with mezcal, Lisa chose a Lava Salt Rosso with a sweet citrus taste, and for me, the abiding Porn Star Martini, so named in London, and created with vanilla vodka, passion fruit purée, freshly squeezed lime juice, chilled sparkling wine, and garnished with fresh passion fruit. Our dining decision was family style, starting with a 24-month aged Parmigiano Reggiano, known as the “King of Cheeses,” first produced by Benedictine and Cistercian monks in the Middle Ages, slathered with 18-year-old balsamic vinegar, and definitely, a fine dining bonanza. Servers quickly arrived with Cacio e Pepe, a classic Italian pasta dish with lavish and robust flavors, originating in Rome, shaped with spaghetti, black pepper and elevated with shallots, white wine, and a creamy sauce. We adored a Tuna Tartare with yuzu kosho, a fascinating sauce made with chili peppers, sea salt, and the peel of the Japanese citrus yuzu. Something new for me was the platter of Spaghetti Nero, inky black from squid ink, with squash blossoms, fried zucchini, olive oil, garlic, and basil, while the Veal Carbonara’s refined sauce left a memorable aftertaste. We all agreed the dinner sang true, balancing rustic tradition with fine-dining finesse.
From Roots to Refinement
It was a busy Saturday morning in Mexico City, and the Zocalo was buzzing with activity, as we crisscrossed the enormous plaza, absorbing the demeanor and ever-changing atmosphere. The flag, with great fanfare, is raised every morning at 8 a.m. while in one corner, a band of mariachis wearing large hats was gathered, as an attractive young woman wearing a long white veil, along with her fiancé, and friends, was on their way to a marriage chapel. In the mix of humanity was a colorful juggler, shoeshine, and taco stands, visitors with city maps and cameras, and joggers out for a run. People were gathering in front of the National Palace, waiting to enter to see Mexican artist, Diego Rivera’s famed murals, and I could see the Zocalo was only just awaking with a big yawn and stretch.
With all the celebrated restaurant options, it was both difficult and exciting to make a lunch choice, and finally, we selected Fonico in Roma Norte. Roma Norte, on tree-lined Avenida Alvaro Obregón, is one of the most stylish and trendy neighborhoods in the city, lined with cafés, bars, boutiques, and beautifully restored buildings. Fonico, upscale and elegant, shares a multilevel former heritage estate with Rayo Cocktail Bar on the upper level and Fonico downstairs, accessed by the oldest elevator in Mexico City, and a winding wrought-iron staircase. Listed in “North America’s 50 Best Restaurants and Bars,” Fonico is headed by Executive Chef Billy Maldonado, who studied gastronomy at Puebla, worked in New York, and the Bellagio in Las Vegas, and was selected as one of the “Best New Chefs” by Food and Wine in 2023. Maldonado creates a seasonal Fonico menu with vegan options, and a modern take on seafood dishes with soulful and global precision. With Alejandra, our server, and Manager Garcia, overlooking every detail in the room, Sanji’s cocktail, El Viejo y el Mar (The Old Man and the Sea), named after a novel by Ernest Hemingway, sparkled with Matusalem Gran Reserva, chocolate tea,strawberry syrup, and Prosecco, while Lisa’s Bacanorita delivered a smoky, spicy profile with bacanora tequila, cucumber, grapefruit, lemon, and grilled pineapple ash. The culinary storytelling continued in the kitchen. We shared an array of inspired dishes, each one honoring Chef Billy’s Mexican roots. Grilled Octopus “a la Veracruzana”, was nestled in a bright, citric stew of peppers and chile Guero. A rich and tender, Confit of Suckling Pig layered with mango-ginger, red pipian, a Mexican sauce made with pumpkin seeds, a scattering of dried red chilies, a dollop of sweet corn pudding, local squash, and plantain molotes, stuffed with black beans and cheese. Chef Billy, going back to his roots in Puebla, prepared Chicken with Mole Poblano, and paired nicely with a spiced date, dried fruit compote, fideo seco, fideo, a Mexican pasta bringing a rich, nutty flavor to the table, topped with crispy chicken skin chicharrón, and Chiapas cheese. My standout was a Beef Brisket, glazed with three chilis, smoky and deeply satisfying. Overall, the flavors were bold yet balanced, and an homage to both family tradition and haute technique. Chef Billy, who began his career in my hometown at Jean-Georges’ New York kitchen, at age 17, has found a way to translate memory into flavor with remarkable finesse.
The St. Regis Mexico City
Departing the Central Hoteles and the Zocalo, we neighborhood hopped to the St. Regis Tower, a radiant 31-story high rise in the heart of Paseo de la Reforma, a wide avenue that runs diagonally through the city, while the hotel, with 197 lodgings, is located directly in front of the Roundabout and the esteemed Diana the Huntress Fountain. Arriving just in time for Golden Hour, the hotel is elegantly embodied, a tranquil pause in a city that never stops moving. We booked a late lunch/early dinner at Diana Restaurant, the setting, fittingly, with the Diana the Huntress Fountain as a backdrop. We shared a Burrata with heirloom tomatoes and dressed with a white balsamic. A plate of Ossobuco de ternera with fideo seco and crema de rancho, was another savory delight, and the Lobster Tail with citrus beurre-blanc and fennel, was prepared perfectly with a remarkable tangy essence.
Mescal Tasting
We were invited to the hotel’s King Cole Bar by mescal aficionado Juan Miranda, and taken on a deep dive into Mexico’s ancestral spirit. Each pour was with a amuse-bouche, announcing flavors and history alike, while learning about Sosima Olivera, a highly respected Oaxacan female mezcalera, helping to keep the centuries old craft alive. Mescal Highlights; La Medida, made from cliff-growing Jabali agave; Mezcaloteca, from rugged Petatillo terrain; Tlamati, distilled with rooster breast and guava leaves; and Vinatero, a smoky expression from Durango’s cenizo maguey.
Leisure and Luxury
Sunday, our last full day in Mexico City, we booked brunch at Diana with Executive Chef Diego Nino, presenting a culinary display as stylish as the setting with fresh pastries, local delicacies, and attentive service that made even Sunday feel decadent, and later Sanji and Lisa enjoyed high tea at Casa Polanco, a tastefully restored Spanish Revival-style mansion converted to a hotel. They described the high tea as elegant and serene with a modern Mexican twist, and with just the right level of indulgence. Get away morning was quiet with room-service breakfast and a reflective ride to the airport. It was difficult to say goodbye, but we left with stories, flavors, and friendships we won’t forget. Mexico City shared more than its cuisine, offering culture, creativity, and hospitality that linger long after the last sip.
When you go
Be aware that Mexico City is 7,350’ above sea level, more than 2,000 feet higher than Denver, so for those not acclimatized to altitude, it’s smart to pace yourself when moving about the city. During my numerous reporting trips to Mexico, I recognized that Mexico truly understands the art of cordiality, and this trip reinforced that thought.
St. Regis Mexico City
Paseo de la Reforma 439 Colonia Cuauhtémoc, CDMX
Reservations: +52 55 5228 1818
Long
Story Short
Walking out into a Mexico City evening, lights blazing, the passion of movement far and wide, a gentle breeze with a bite rustling about, we hooked a ride to the intimate Long Story Short restaurant and bar, near the vibrant Zona Rosa neighborhood in Juarez, for a early nightcap. Anxious to report on Long Story Short, at first glance it reminded me of a speakeasy setting out of a movie where Bogart and Bacall would be sitting at the bar, drinks in hand. The good vibes in the room were encouraged by legendary music artists such as Frank Sinatra, Amy Winehouse, and Bob Marley, and driven by story and spirit. Music uplifts the essence at Long Story Short, and often late night dancing expands the fun. Owners, Ximena Arechega, Javier Casillas, and Alfonoso Tenopala greeted us like old friends. The menu reads like speculative fiction, and we ordered the house Negroni (Hasta el ultimo trago Corazón), translated from a Mexican movie starring Lila Downs, (Till the last drink my love), and offering a strong citrus orange taste. The Frida was a mix of tequila, pineapple shrub, and sweet potato, while the Hermano Lee was a crisp, citrus-forward cocktail with nopal, spinach, and apple. Lisa, a budding mixologist, was invited behind the bar for a guest stir. For me, this is true hospitality in a city that excels at hospitality.
Migrante
Chiapas 186, Roma Norte
Cuauhtémoc, 06700, CDMX
Reservations: +52 55 5941 5470
migranteroma.com
Barolo
Calle Orizaba 203, Roma Norte Cuauhtémoc, 06700, CDMX
Reservations: +52 55 9232 1964
@barolo.rest
Fonico Salamanca 85, Roma Norte Cuauhtémoc, 06700, CDMX
Reservations: +52 55 6385 2051
fonico.mx
DREAM IN Color
The Wigwam Resort Phoenix
Trisha Ventker
Wigwam Resort Phoenix
Desert luxury in Southwest Arizona
Departing the campus of Arizona State University, I sadly reminisced to husband Tom, while glancing at son Tristan, “What happened to those years? It seemed they disappeared in a flash, the years ticking by in a wild dash, time relentless and persistent, and here we are in Arizona with Tristan, a high school senior, helping him to decide the next phase of his life, and it was only yesterday that we were dropping him off at our local elementary school with his lunch box.” It was two days of whirlwind campus stopovers, visiting ASU in Tempe, and U of A, Tucson, and unanimously, we decided we needed a breather, so we booked in to the classy Wigwam Resort located in Litchfield Park, a small residential community, 16 miles west of Central Phoenix, and a 30-minute drive from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. We were overcome by Wigwam and the incredulous 331 guestrooms and suites, the smiling service, and the famed Arizona sun, bright and bold, offering 300-days of sunshine a year and warming the early Spring day. The 440-acre resort delivered everything we didn’t know we needed, and then some. First glance, it appeared like a covert oasis in the Sonoran Desert, a romantic rendezvous for some, and with a relaxed grace of history, style and nature, for family fun too.
Litchfield Park
Before the campus’ trip I researched Litchfield Park, which originated in 1916 during World War I when the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company sent executive Paul Litchfield to purchase land to grow Egyptian long staple cotton to reinforce vehicle tires being used in the war-effort. He purchased 16,000 acres to cultivate the cotton which proved to be a difficult process, but Paul and wife Florence fell passionately in love with the region, and built Ranch Loma, an exquisite winter estate on a hill overlooking the company townsite. Litchfield Park was officially recognized in 1926, and in November 1929, the Wigwam, first built for guest quarters for visiting Goodyear Tire executives, was expanded into a public hotel. Litchfield Park, aptly named, is home to eleven parks, miles of pathways, towering palm trees, a zoo, and upscale homes. The P.W. Litchfield Heritage Center, noted as the art and culture heart of the southwest valley, and the Litchfield Park Historical Society Museum are both an intriguing visit. Finally, in 1987, 3.2 square mile Litchfield Park was incorporated into a city, and thanks to Goodyear and Paul Litchfield, I now know why the Wigwam at Litchfield Park is a member of the Historical Hotels of America. We checked in to our spacious guest rooms, and Tom and Tristan quickly headed to one of the three sparkling swimming pools, to soak in some rays, while I slipped away for some serious self-care at the spa.
LeMonds Aveda Salon and Spa
The full service, two-story spa, has been noted among the best in Arizona, and browsing through the 26,000 square foot complex, I experienced the high rating firsthand with 15 indoor treatment rooms, a private lap pool in an attractive courtyard setting, saunas, steam rooms, a Jacuzzi pool, and relaxation rooms. I also counted four hair stations, four manicure and five pedicure stations. I booked a 50-minute, full body custom massage with Stacy, my therapist, using natural ingredients from pure plant and flower extracts. It was one of my best ever massages, and complete, total bliss. I melted into a zero-gravity chair, and later enjoyed the peace and quiet of the adults-only pool in the spa courtyard, and it was pure tranquility. Reading their large Spa Menu, guests can select everything from a Sea Salt and Olive Oil Body Scrub, a Prickly Pear Body Treatment, to a Desert Aloa Body Wrap, and Sound Therapy.
In the evening, we regrouped to share stories by the fire pit, explore the menu and talk through all the excitement and nerves that come with senior year and big, life-changing decisions. Looking at my only child, who is now a young man, I realize that life is moving too quickly for me. I also understand that I’m not alone. Thousands of parents each year experience these same thoughts.
Dinner at Litchfields
We were excited to connect with Executive Chef & Beverage Director, Christopher Mclean, a prestigious Certified Level Two Sommelier, who created the menu of Southwestern American cuisine. A starter for Tom was a Coconut Blood Orange Margarita, followed by a Grilled Caesar Ribeye dressed with peppercorn mélange steak glaze. I selected a Paloma, French Onion Soup, and a delightful nine ounce marinated Wagyu Flank, sprinkled with truffle butter. Tristan, with an excellent eye for cuisine, and a hearty appetite, chose a Rib Eye with truffle butter, a side dish of gourmet macaroni, and his refreshing drink was a non-alcoholic craft beverage titled Summer Equinox with seed lip agave, lime, pineapple and soda.
Arizona’s Golfing Center
Before checking out and enjoying Sunday Brunch, we took a stroll through the nicely landscaped property, and for golfers, there are three 18-hole courses, each with a particular skill level. The Red Course is most popular, while the challenging Gold Course, a par 72, 7,345 yards, has hosted a number of major tournaments and been named one of the “Top 100 Golf Courses in America.” The layout for golfers with various skills is spectacular, and for those who want to take a crack at golf, this is the place.
Sunday Brunch at Litchfields
The cashless restaurant was buzzing with activity, and we shared the menu offerings. Starters were Amuse Bouche, which was a wrapped prosciutto, and compressed cantaloupe with a dash of balsamic caviar. The house-made poblano and savory cheddar biscuits, with Arizona honey butter, were also winners. Our salad of Local Field Greens, was a collection of fresh strawberries, bits of pecan, candied bacon, chèvre, and touches of dark chocolate. A favorite at the table was the creative Avocado Toast, made with grilled multi-grain bread, Meyer lemon, Easter radish, scallions, toasted sesame, and poached egg. I placed a star next to the House-Cured Big Glory Bay Salmon, accompanied by crispy latke, heirloom tomatoes, relish, crème fraiche, and petite herbs, while the Millionaire’s Benedict was designed with truffled butter poached crab, and a toasted English muffin. Tristan, with relish, enjoyed the Chicken and Blue Corn Waffles, created with sweet corn purée, smoked maple syrup, pickled Fresno Chile, and bone marrow butter. We finished the inspired brunch with a Chocolate Egg, and a Chocolate Cookie with white chocolate mousse, dressed with dark chocolate sauce, and a light passion fruit gel. Our final goodbye was a tangy Lemon Sorbet, smothered with macerate strawberries, basil, honey dust, and lemon extra virgin olive oil. Chef, Christopher McClean and his staff, are a step above, placing years of cooking knowledge into a menu bursting with taste.
When You Go
Wigwam isn’t just a hotel booking, it’s a proper travel experience. Be it you’re looking to unwind, reconnect or simply be a desert treasure, Wigwam is designed to please. Designed for any family pairing, you’ll leave refreshed and recharged, the starlit nights a colossal bonus.
The Wigwam Resort Phoenix
AROUND
AROUND TOWN
RiNo: River North Art District
Trisha Ventker
RiNo: River North Art District
Trisha Ventker
Denver, dynamic, ever-growing, self-motivated, and ensconced in a stunning setting is a city with a free-spirited personality, a mile high where the air is a bit thin for new-comers, and an historic front range where the eastern most line of the Southern Rocky Mountains can be seen towering on the horizon, and, of course, biking, skiing and exploring, is the norm. Denver, with its Old West history, is simply a city that draws you in like a huge magnet. I’ve called Denver home for 17 + years, and what I adore about the city is the diversity and assortment of areas. According to the City and County of Denver, the city has an incredible 78 official neighborhoods. I certainly have not covered all of them by a long shot; however, it’s an ongoing challenge.
My recent neighborhood is RiNo: River North Art District, a vibrant district north of downtown, which is a one-mile radius of converted historic and run-down warehouses and factory buildings, and where creative artists with brushes flashing left their mark with colorful wall murals, while clever retailers and creative folks moved in with boutiques, art galleries, studios, restaurants, and music venues, including the Forney Museum of Transportation, the Infinite Monkey Winery, Black Shirt Brewery, and so much more. RiNo is earthy, free-spirited, and great fun to spend an afternoon or evening enjoying live music, and it is yet another Denver neighborhood with culinary brilliance.
The Creative Heartbeat of Denver’s RiNo Neighborhood— Raw and Refined
Denver has always had a cool factor, but RiNo? RiNo doesn’t just wear cool; it creates it. I’m covering editorially with my friend Roger, along with a wonderful 45-year friendship dating to my days in New York City. Roger now lives in Palm Springs, and our journey through RiNo was as rich and flavorful as our long friendship. We booked rooms at the Catbird Hotel, a stylish home base, smartly designed and perfectly placed for exploring. A small, boutique property, Catbird has 165 guest rooms, full kitchens and is designed for extended stays. Drinks and snacks on the rooftop, called Rook, gave us panoramic views of the Denver skyline, and my room design in the penthouse felt as creative as the streets below. From the moment we checked in to the smart and classy Catbird, we felt we were part of something special, and with great support from RiNo that also offered an inspired welcome.
Strolling RiNo, we took pleasure in design-forward wine bars, eclectic noodle cafes, inspired dessert lounges and vibrant, booming murals giving old warehouses new life with zest and creativity, and it’s not surprising with an incredible 200-plus murals that RiNo and Denver have been honored as the “U.S. Capital of Street Art.” We stopped by the Corsica Wine Bar, where managers Brandon and James mentioned that Corsica has a select collection of European wines, serving 39 wines by the glass and approximately 200 by the bottle, and that Corsica and the Barcelona Wine Bar belong to the same restaurant group, with Barcelona respectfully presenting cuisine from Spain. Corsica’s moody interior with a mural designed by Keya Tama, has a street-side patio, open-faced kitchen and serves cuisine influenced by the French island of Corsica with an Italian twist and topped with flavorsome Mediterranean cuisine.
muralist Keya Tama
With cocktails in hand, we shared a delightful Whipped Ricotta Toast. created with dabs of honey and espelete, a mildly spicy red pepper, and a scoop of tart and semi-sweet barberries. Quickly, Bri our server, arrived with a golden, crispy Barbajuan, the national dish of Monaco, which was a pastry filled with ravioli, Swiss and ricotta cheese. The Rigatoni Bolognese with deep layers of taste, originally from Bologna, Italy, was prepared with a meaty Bolognese sauce and laced with finely diced onions, celery, and carrots. The Bastion Meatballs, using gluten-free bison meat, were tender and juicy. A gold star to Executive Chef Devin Rachles, another creative chef to be added to my ongoing collection of topmost Denver chefs.
Dessert was down the street at Mecha Noodle Bar, where we ordered from Zoe, a succulent dessert tagged Happy Endings that delivered pure delight, and Mecha is also noted for their signature mochi tasting. We tasted traditional and savory fruit-forward flavors such as black sesame, matcha lychee, mango, and passionfruit. The Ube Pudding layered with banana, sweet potato, and vanilla wafers was a standout. Even the cocktails were dessert-level delicious, a favorite being the mango sticky rice version with cachaça and coconut liqueur. The ambience of the Mech Noodle Bar was buzzing, casual, and full of character and good times.
Day Two – RiNo Sparkling
On a warm summer morning, Roger and I checked out Sway Wellness Spa on Larimer Square, and while browsing through the streets, we both felt it was great fun to experience the artistic energy floating through RiNo and the creative passion of crafting a style and personality that emerged in RiNo. The Sway folks with more than 20 years of spa work, have a vigorous comprehensive approach to healthy living with advanced expertise and long-established treatments in place. I booked a 50-minute Deep Tissue treatment, researching my selection beforehand. The massage was deeply corrective, relaxing the body into a mode of comfort and well-being, stress out the door, and being able to let go, chill out, and unwind while being drawn into a wonderful state of bliss and harmony. In turn, Roger spent time in the Sway Remedy Room. He said, “Overall it was a unique experience and a wide-ranging bonus for the body and mind.” The 40-minute Remedy technology includes 15 minutes in the Normatec and LED Light Therapy, 20 minutes in the traditional sauna, and five minutes in the cold plunge. We were informed that Normatec is for recovery, increased circulation, and reducing muscle stiffness. Athletes use it extensively for performance enhancement, muscle fatigue, and physical happiness.
A stroll through the land of murals, and we ended up at Rioja for lunch, orchestrated by chef and owner Jennifer Jasinski, who was the first female Denver chef to be honored in 2013 with the James Beard Foundation Award for “Best Southwest Chef.” Jen, as she is known, attended the Culinary Institute of America and has worked in some of the finest restaurants in the country along with a stint in Paris. Jen’s spicy salad with seared tuna was bright and bold, designed with goat cheese, a crunchy seed mix, two hard-boiled eggs, and splashed with a jalapeño crema vinaigrette. Equally favorite was the Artichoke Tortellini, tender, complex, and delectable. Roger ordered a Son of a Bee, beer, and we toasted the day with a cheer to Jen and RiNo.
RiNo Dining Fiesta
In the evening, as the sun slowly began dropping below the horizon in a blaze of dappled light, and puffy clouds, we decided on small bites at Barcelona Wine Bar, led by Executive Chef Emilio Garcia and Sous Chef Cesar Lugaro. Garcia, who worked in the family kitchen as a young boy, moved to the United States from Guatemala at age 17, cooked in various restaurants, and is recognized among Colorado’s top chefs. Garcia creates small plates with savory flavors and seasonal ingredients. Likewise, Chef Cesar Lugaro is the lead chef in Special Events, focusing on Spanish and New American cuisine, and cooking since he was old enough to lift a heavy iron skillet. Our small bites tasting was organized by GM Michael and server Christine, and first up was the classic rustic Italian ciabatta bread, slathered with La Boella olive oil, followed by pungent and aromatic bacon-wrapped dates with Valdeon mousse. and Spanish Valdeon blue cheese, which is a blend of cow and goat’s milk, the recipe, sassy, complex, and a bit spicy.
The croquettes, which are beloved tapas throughout Spain, were crispy, deep-fried rolls with a garlicky aioli sauce. Roger sipped on a deep red, award-winning Rioja from Bodegas Olarra, while I opted for the non-alcoholic “Tea Time” mocktail featuring Earl Grey tea, blueberry shrub, salted honey, lemon, and aquafaba. As an encore, we learned about the renowned Beverage Directors, Gretchen and Emily, managing with detailed knowledge more than 40 wines available by the glass. The Barcelona Wine Bar tapas took us on a rich and indulgent ride to Spain, along with lasting culinary memories.
We ended our epicurean adventure at Carne, which translated from Spanish is meat, and appropriately, meat is Carne’s culinary focus. Owner and Executive Chef Dana Rodriguez, bigger than life, vivacious, energy-driven, always with a smile on her lips, and with an inflamed heartwarming documentary waiting to be filmed. Rodriguez brought to mind some of the fashion designers we feature monthly in Denver Colorado Luxury Magazine, who rose from humble beginnings to success. Dana was raised on a farm in Chihuahua, Mexico, lacking electricity or running water, her diligent family living off the land, while her father worked as a farmer and butcher, and Dana assisted in the kitchen absorbing her father’s craft. She moved to Juarez at age nine and to Monterrey, Mexico, as a teen, and finally in 1998, emigrated to Denver at age 24. Badly in need of a job and money, Jen at Rioja hired her as a cleaner and dishwasher, and slowly she worked her way up the challenging culinary ladder to prep cook, pasta maker, baker, and sous chef at Rioja. Furthering her skills in other Denver restaurants, as Chef de cuisine at Bistro Vendome and honored as an elite James Beard Award Nominee. Dana owns Work and Class, across the street from Carne, and is Culinary Partner at the famed Casa Bonita .
She opened Carne, July 3, 2024, and features Dona Loca, her own brand of blanco, reposado, and anejo, tequila, also served in other restaurants. Dazzling and delightful, Dana Rodriquez emerged from the kitchen and introduced herself to us and others with a smile, then GM Eric and Jes led us through the Carne menu and a feast that was perfectly executed from starters to main, the attention to detail standing high. Dana created the Burrata with heirloom tomatoes, a silky celebration of avocado mousse with a blend of avocado, yogurt, lime, chili peppers, vinegar, a pinch of salt, and a vinaigrette blended with red wine vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, and black pepper. An out-and-out, tangy-tasting delight. The Beef Tiradito, one of many house specialties, was made with jalapeño aioli, a side of avocado sauce, and a tostado. The multi-flavored beef was tender and appetizing. The Seasonal Risotto, one of Roger’s favorite dishes, arrived with fava beans, a minty mascarpone puree, a shower of parmesan, and spoons of preserved mushrooms. Last on the table a rich, tender, beefy, and textured cut of cap beef, titled Brazilian Picanha, which is enormously popular in Brazilian cuisine, and Dana went a step further with her distinct green chimichurri sauce, created with a dash of Mexico. I’m looking forward with immense pleasure to a return visit to further explore Dana’s thoughtful and zesty menu or even perhaps, feature her in a future issue
RiNo: River North Art District
Federales Tequila and Tacos
The following morning we walked to the casual and popular open-air Federales Tequila and Tacos for brunch. Federales is a wing of the Chicago-based restaurant group, Four Corners, known for their alfresco taco and tequila concept, and also own other concepts such as Ranalli’s Benchmark and Kirkwood. The RiNo location is the first Federales to open outside of Chicago, and was buzzing with activity. Federales is the place to go for delightful tacos, a hip bar with a host of regulars, and spontaneous entertainment. I’ve covered dining for the magazine, numerous times throughout Mexico, and am excited to see how the cuisine compares. Upfront, Roger ordered a spicy and classic margarita with a salted rim. and for me, a frozen mango margarita with sugar and tajine slathered on the rim—both were nicely prepared. For brunch we selected a Queso Fundido, popular in Northern Mexico with roots in the ranching culture, the Mexican Revolution, and the states of Chihuahua and Coahuila, and a Tex-Mex appetizer. The Federales version could have been FedExed straight from Mexico, fashioned with chorizo, fire-roasted poblano, a Chihuahua-Oaxacan cheese blend, pico de gallo, and flour tortillas. A Breakfast Torta, also popular in Northern Mexico, is a tasty and filling, hands-on dish prepared with tangy chorizo, Chihuahua cheese, black beans, slices of avocado, a fried egg, lightly fried jalapeño, a bed of lettuce leaves, pieces of tomato, and a telera roll. The Eltote, which I’ve enjoyed in Mexico, was a lightly grilled corn on the cob with subtle spices and often offered by street vendors. The handmade guacamole, loaded with layers of taste, is like Mexican comfort food for me, and with a bag of chips, it is the essence of party time. When departing, I noticed a couple tossing shot glasses at a bell, and I asked, “What is that all about?” Mackenzie, the GM said, ”It’s an ice shot, and the challenge is to down the shot and throw the glass at the bell that hangs over hot coals and make the bell ring and watch the shot glass melt in the coals. I gave it a try and didn’t ring the bell…boo, but maybe next time!
When You Go
If you’re headed to RiNo, Catbird is an excellent home base, and be prepared to enjoy a sensory journey through one of Denver’s most inspired and happening neighborhoods. Here is where stories are painted on walls, flavors dance on the tongue, and memories are made in the most unexpected corners. The journey also reminded me how easy and fun it was to share RiNo with Roger. He’s the kind of friend who catches details I miss and helps with capturing just the right images or angles while bringing thoughtful perspective to everything we did. After four decades of friendship, he still surprises me in the best way.
“Hello, my name is AWSUM” Portrait by Naomi Haverland
Kimpton Claret Hotel and Sky Lodge at Halo Bar
Trisha Ventker
Kimpton Claret Hotel and Sky Lodge at Halo Bar
Trisha Ventker
A luxurious escape
It was exceptional experiencing the Kimpton Claret Hotel, the city brimming with life, a canvas of golden light blanketing the streets, and a passing parade of people, all blending together in a city I love, while a breeze from the Front Range pulsated the air on a cool evening night. Denver has always been a city that strikes the perfect balance—urban energy against a backdrop of rugged mountain magnificence that entices the imagination.
Bill Kimpton, a brilliant visionary.
The Kimpton Hotels hold a highly respected standing in the history of hotels. The late Bill Kimpton is recognized and widely credited with pioneering the concept and being the originator of boutique hotels in the United States. A brilliant innovator and steps ahead of the hotel industry, in 1981 in San Francisco, he founded Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants by purchasing rundown, smaller hotels and converting them into welcoming, lifestyle, comfortable bookings, such as the Hotel Bedford on Post Street, the Hotel Vintage Court, and the adjacent Masa’s restaurant. He said, “Restaurants are for the locals, and hotels are for visitors, and both must be welcoming.”
Following his lifestyle concept, Bill Kimpton was the first to offer hosted afternoon wine tasting with appetizers. Widely quoted, he said, ”A touch of wine in the afternoon is the perfect time to relax and meet a guest, so why not?” The Kimpton Claret hotel located in south Denver in the Belleview Station neighborhood, follows Bill’s lifestyle with a hosted social hour, a yoga mat in every room, mountain bikes available, and dog friendly. Living north of the city, I found the hotel, a sleek and stylish new addition to Denver’s hospitality scene. From the moment I arrived, I felt this wasn’t going to be just another hotel stay.
A first impression that endured
I was immediately engrossed by the effortlessly modern yet inviting design. The lobby was a perfect mix of warm textures, statement furniture, and contemporary artwork. It was sophisticated but not pretentious, exactly the kind of space where you want to linger, with a large lobby fireplace for winter afternoons. Checking in, a smiling staff member offered me a complimentary welcome drink, and it was one of those small touches that instantly elevates a stay. It was clear that the Kimpton lifestyle and diligence was a priority here. My room was perfectly positioned with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the Denver skyline like a work of art, while plush bedding and a spa-like bathroom made it difficult to imagine wanting to leave. True to the Kimpton style, thoughtful details were in every corner, including the yoga mat tucked neatly in the closet, as if inviting me to start my morning with a stretch and a view.
Sky Lodge and Halo Bar
High on the 19th floor, I was delightfully amazed by the dazzling Sky Lodge and Halo bar. I invited my husband and four of my closest friends to join me for libations and appetizers. We sipped cocktails and perfectly crafted small plates, grouped around a warming firepit, and blankets if needed, which made the evening even more special, and a setting that made me feel it’s precisely where I was meant to be. The Sky Lodge is simply spectacular lounging within a glass enclosed greenhouse with views forever, and the Halo, the highest open-air bar in Denver.
Executive Chef Christian Graves
Another huge bonus for the Sky Lodge is Chef Christian Graves and his team, who enhance the magic of the hotel. Chef Graves is the creativity behind Saverina Restaurant and Halo Bar, presenting Italian-inspired cuisine, wood-fired pizza and sourcing from Colorado farmers and ranchers, ensuring that every entrée is fresh, sustainable, and delectable. With regards to Chef Graves, we shared a delightful array of seven appetizers that switched the moment to a party atmosphere high in the sky. The Shrimp Cocktail with tangy lemon and spicy cocktail sauce, brought smiles all around, as did the Shisito Peppers, slightly blistered with Meyer Lemon aioli, and maidon sea salt, and the Crispy Mac N Cheese Balls with a side of flavorful pimento dip. The Bluefin Tuna Crudo in a bed of fried rice chips, and splashed with a ginger-garlic dressing, was one of my favorites, as well as the Burrata Pouline, accompanied with a light black truffle gravy, Italian cheese curds and fries. A plate of herbed French Fries with Meyer Lemon, seemed to disappear as quickly as they were served. The crispy house-made potato chips with one ounce of Golden Caviar, and chive-crème fraiche, is an appetizer I will order on a return visit.
The combination of the cool evening air, the warmth of the fire, and the energy of the city below created a moment I didn’t plan but will never forget. It’s a reminder to pause take in the surrounding beauty, and savor the moments that matter.
When You Go
Affable and gracious Bill Kimpton, passed at age 65, but from his small start in San Franciso, in 1981, there are some 75 Kimpton hotels world-wide. Whether you’re a Denver local searching for a stylish stay, Kimpton Claret and Halo Lounge are a splendid choice. Thursdays, 6 to 9 p.m., live music. Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m. to closing, a live DJ playing dance spins and requests. It’s the Kimpton style.
HEALTH&BEAUTY
HEALTH&BEAUTY
Making Scents
Tiaja Pierre
Making Scents
Tiaja Pierre
In a world where the air is often thick with overpowering fragrances, I have faced that all-too-familiar dilemma: Stepping into a car on a first date and being overwhelmed by an intense scent, making me consider hailing a taxi. Or finding myself in an elevator, catching a lingering aroma that stirs memories of someone who is no longer present. These experiences resonate deeply with me.
Growing up, I was an active athlete, but my devotion to sports often clashed with a household sensitive to fragrance. My mother’s aversion meant I frequently forwent deodorant, relying instead on an abundance of showers to stay fresh. This early awareness of fragrance sensitivities—affecting nearly 30 percent of the global population—ignited a vision within me. As a teenager, I even wrote to various fragrance houses, inquiring about the possibility of developing a scent that I dreamed of, showcasing my passion from a young age.
With heartfelt dedication to my mother’s legacy, I set out to create a line of perfumes that would honor her while catering to those who share similar sensitivities. To bring my dream to life, I teamed up with Galimard, Maison de Parfums…the oldest fragrance house in France, founded in 1747 and known for crafting pomades and fragrances for Louis XV. Nestled in Grasse, the perfume capital of the world, I collaborated with a chemist to develop the perfect unisex fragrance, known as a fougère. The word “fougère” itself is French for “fern.” This type of fragrance is not merely a single ingredient but an olfactory accord meant to evoke the scent of ferns in the forest. Perfumes categorized as fougère fall under a beloved subfamily in both men’s and women’s perfumery. When you hear the term “fougère” (pronounced foo-zhair), it refers to fragrances characterized by a delightful combination of fresh, grassy, and mossy scents. These fragrances are commonly described as classic and timeless, defined by their green and herbaceous aroma, often with a slightly sweet and woody undertone.
My Tiaja fragrance features an innovative formulation with five base notes, six heart notes, and six top notes. This unique combination allows for flexibility and the development of future products under the Tiaja brand. My mission is clear: to craft luxurious fragrances that inspire joy and evoke positive emotions, allowing individuals to express their unique essence without compromise.
At the heart of my brand lies a commitment to the delicate balance of scent. Each fragrance is meticulously designed to stimulate the senses and evoke cherished memories while ensuring a gentle experience for all. By harnessing cutting-edge technology and the finest ingredients, I have crafted an inaugural perfume that transforms the art of fragrance into a soothing experience.
With Tiaja, the world of luxury scent is now accessible to everyone, regardless of sensitivity. My brand aspires to be the premier provider of exquisite perfumes that not only inspire but also elevate everyday moments into extraordinary experiences through the enchanting power of scent. In a realm where elegance meets empathy, I invite you to indulge in the beauty of fragrance—limitless and uncompromised. After five decades of perseverance, my dream is now a reality. To explore and learn more about this luxury brand, please visit tiajapierre.com
MUST
HAVES
MUST HAVES Travel Gift Ideas
AIRPLANE POCKETS
Today we have an exciting product for anyone who will be flying and is concerned about the cleanliness of the airplane tray table and also needs more room to hold all of your items that you bring on the plane.
Airplane Pockets is a sanitary tray table cover with 4 expandable pockets that easily slides on like a sleeve and completely covers the tray table to hold and organize all of your items conveniently in front of you at your seat. No need to keep going back and forth to your carry-on bag to get your things.
This new upgraded version made from a durable tight weave polyester has larger pockets and a 3/4 inch elastic ribbon around all 4 of the pockets to snuggly hold your items, like a laptop computer, books, iPad, phone, snacks and even a Big Gulp tumbler or large water bottle.
MUST HAVES Travel Gift Ideas
KINTION POCKET MIRROR
1X/3X Magnification LED Compact Travel Makeup Mirror with Light for Purse, 2-Sided, Portable, Folding, Handheld, Small Lighted Mirror for Gift, PinkArctigenin
•【Excellent Daylight It provide clearly view and true color details for makeup
【•1X/3X Magnifying Mirror It is suitable for the entire face makeup and closeup facial grooming
【•Compact Mirror It is perfect for your pocket, handbag, purse, and is an ideal portable mirror at home or travel
【•Easy to Use Hinge that opens flat to 180 degrees for an easy to grip handheld
•Has two hidden magnetic power swtich that control LED lighting
$8.99
amazon.com
ZACA
2 CHEWABLES ARE MORE POWERFUL THAN A SPORTS
DRINK
Discover the power of just two chewable hydration tablets in each packet. Zaca has up to 5x more active ingredients than leading sports drinks & powders.
Perfect for any occasion. Traveling, flights, workouts, weddings, high altitude journeys, festivals, bachelorette parties & kits, skiing, running, cycling, hiking, and more.
$20.99
zaca.com
MUST HAVES
Gift Ideas
BRELIIO CLIP UMBRELLA
Elevate your everyday carry with the Breliio Clip, the umbrella designed for both style and practicality. Its signature clip handle secures effortlessly to backpacks, handbags, strollers, or even bike frames—freeing your hands while keeping protection close at hand.
Engineered with 10 reinforced ribs and aviation-grade aluminum alloy, the Breliio Clip balances strength and lightness to stand up to wind, rain, and daily use.
Its reverse-folding design keeps the wet side in, while the generous 210T canopy provides ample coverage and water-repellent protection.
$49.99
breliio.com
SNOOZ GO
The 2-in-1 gift for better rest and relaxation.
SNOOZ Go is a sleek, travel-friendly white noise machine and Bluetooth speaker designed to improve sleep, reduce stress, and bring calm wherever you are—from hotel rooms to long flights to the office. Rechargeable travel sound machine, Bluetooth speaker, and night light. You deserve better sleep.
$59.99
GUIDE
GUIDE
DDenver’s leading guide to highly-rated hotels, restaurants and culture
The Brown Palace
The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa is aptly named with its palatial atrium aweing guests of all ages. The hotel first opened in 1892 and has kept its historical charm while providing modern and luxurious amenities. A walking tour of the hotel is available to enlighten visitors of the heart and soul that went into its design and highlights special details only visible to a knowledgeable eye. Despite the close proximity to a bustling downtown, guests enjoy the many restaurant options on-site, including afternoon tea time in the stunning atrium, complete with devonshire cream shipped in directly from England, and the culinary mastery offered at the Palace Arms restaurant, served in a room with hand painted wallpaper and surrounded by ancient relics.
brownpalace.com
321 17th Street, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 297-3111
HOTELS
The Crawford is a truly unique hotel, located in Denver’s Union Station. Designed within the original walls of this historical landmark, which dates back to 1881, guests find themselves enjoying a new room experience at each visit, as no two rooms are the same. The hotel boasts historical yet modern design features, with rooms that feel cozy yet luxurious. Guests looking for a peaceful atmosphere can curl up with a good book in one of the reading nooks while those looking for more excitement need only walk downstairs to The Great Hall. Also known as Denver’s Living Room, The Great Hall features a vibrant array of shops and restaurants with award winning chefs. Whether patrons are enjoying a craft beer from the Terminal Bar or competing in a friendly game of shuffleboard, The Great Hall brings people together, a perfect reflection of the building’s original intention.
thecrawfordhotel.com
1701 Wynkoop Street Denver, CO 80202 (720) 460-3700
The Crawford Hotel
Four Seasons
Four Seasons hotels are known for their luxurious accommodations and unmatched customer service, and the Four Seasons Denver is no exception. From the moment guests enter the hotel, they are treated to an experience like no other. Large suites with stunning mountain views, unforgettable meals at the famed EDGE Restaurant & Bar, relaxing treatments at the full-service spa, and delicious cocktails served poolside at the rooftop pool oasis, are just a few of the unique amenities awaiting Four Seasons guests. Its convenient location across from the Denver Center for the Performing Arts complex and just steps away from Larimer Square and the 16th Street Mall, allows guests easy access to shows, shopping, restaurants, sporting activities, and exciting nightlife offered in downtown Denver.
fourseasons.com/denver 1111 14th Street Denver, CO 80202 (303) 389-3000
HOTELS
DThe Gaylord of the Rockies
Located minutes from Denver International Airport in the idyllic All American City of Aurora, Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center will feature over 1,500 guest rooms including 114 well-appointed suites and over 485,000 square feet of extraordinary meeting and convention space. As a gateway to the Rockies, Gaylord Rockies will offer memorable experiences to its guests with first-class restaurants, a luxurious spa and salon, diverse shops, winding waterways and picture perfect sunset views. Rustic alpine charm and exciting “open-air” activity make this Rocky Mountain Front Range retreat an adventure in itself.
The Oxford Hotel
The Oxford Hotel, in addition to being one of the most popular luxury hotels in downtown Denver, is the oldest operating hotel. It has seen many enhancements through the years, perfecting the art that is a luxury hotel, while preserving the character and integrity of its history. As a registered landmark on the National Register for Historic Places, and boasting a stunning display of art and historical architecture, it’s no wonder the hotel receives guests from across the globe.
theoxfordhotel.com
1600 17th Street
Denver, CO 80202
(303) 628-5400
HOTELS
The Ritz-Carlton
The Ritz-Carlton Denver, located in the heart of downtown, lives up to its name with quality and modern sophistication incorporated into every inch of the hotel. Special attention to detail is evident throughout and provides guests with a tranquil setting to enjoy a luxurious home away from home. Even the youngest of guests are considered VIP’s and eligible to take part in the Ritz Kids program. A myriad of dining options are available within walking distance of the hotel but many guests enjoy paying tribute to famed Broncos quarterback John Elway, by indulging in the fine dining offered on site at ELWAY’S steakhouse.
ritzcarlton.com/denver
1881 Curtis Street
Denver, CO 80202
(303) 312-3800
Acova
Owned and operated by restaurant veterans, Sean and Betsy Workman, Acova debuted in the Lower Highlands area of Denver in June of 2018 and was designed to be the neighborhood joint for friends and family. The kitchen creates an eclectic menu for all lifestyles and dietary restrictions and serves lunch, happy hour, dinner and weekend brunch.
acovarestaurantcom
3651 Navajo Street, Denver, CO 80202
(303) 736.2718
Mon - Thurs
11:30 am - 10:00 pm 11:30 - 11:00 pm Sat 10:00 am - 11 pm
Sun 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
RESTAURANTS
One of Colorado’s best northern Italian restaurants, Barolo Grill has also been recognized as one of the world’s best restaurants for wine. In 2018 Barolo was honored with both Wine Spectator’s Grand Award and Wine Enthusiasts’ Best 100 Wine Restaurants award. Known for hand crafted modern Piemontese cuisine and knowledgeable, attentive staff, Barolo is the perfect choice for special occasions or a great night out. Their seasonally changing menus highlight items from the staff’s annual pilgrimage to Northern Italy and features locally sourced ingredients from regional farms and artisans.
barologrilldenver.com 3030 East Sixth Avenue, Denver, CO 80206 (303) 393.1040
Dinner Tues - Thurs 5:00 pm - 9:30 pm Fri - Sat 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Sun - Mon closed
Barolo Grill
Ash’kara
Ash’Kara, a globally inspired restaurant with influences from Israel, the Middle East and Mesopotamia, is a collaborative partnership with the restaurateur team of chef Daniel Asher and Josh Dinar (River and Woods, the forthcoming Tributary Food Hall in Golden and Mother Tongue at Broadway Market) and Culinary Creative Group (Bar Dough, Senor Bear, Morin and the forthcoming Maine Shack). Ash’Kara is located in Denver’s Lower Highlands neighborhood.
ashkaradenver.com
2005 W 33rd Avenue, Denver, CO 80211 (303) 537-4407
Mon - Tues 3:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Wed - Sun 11:00 am - 2:00 pm 3:00 pm - 10 p.m.
RESTAURANTS
Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse
The restaurant features warm dining spaces, with local stone and classic mahogany throughout to create an unparalleled ambiance. Enjoy Denver’s premiere smoking lounge with more than 65 cigars to choose from in our humidor. Located in the prestigious Greenwood Village area, it’s the perfect place to reconnect over an intimate dinner and is one of the best steakhouses in Denver.
delfriscos.com
8100 E Orchard Road, Denver, CO 80111 (303) 796-0100
11:30 am - 2 :00 pm
5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Cocktails check website
photo courtesy of Eater Denver
Guard and Grace
There’s a reason that Guard and Grace is the first name on people’s lips when asked for a steakhouse recommendation in Denver. Chef and owner Troy Guard wows his patrons with a fine dining experience featuring mouth watering steaks and a delicious raw bar, turning any social gathering into a celebration.
guardandgrace.com
1801 California Street, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 293-8500
Dinner Sun - Thurs 4:00 pm - 9:30 pm Fri - Sat 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm
RESTAURANTS
Le French Founded by Senegalese French sisters Aminata and Rougui Dia, Le French is a gourmet, casual-chic French bakery and bistro. Le French specializes in high-end pastries and elevated modern Parisian cuisine with global influences, a nod to the sisters’ heritage. lefrenchdenver.com 4901 S. Newport St. Denver, CO 80237 (720) 710-8963 Tues - Thurs 11:00 am - 9:00 pm
11:00 am - 10:00 pm
8:00 am - 10:00 pm 8:00 am - 2:30 pm
photo credit Rachel Adams
Le Bilboquet
Reminiscent of a charming French bistro, Le Bilboquet Denver is located in Cherry Creek North within the St. Paul Collection. The restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere paired with simple, classic French cooking - bringing a slice of Parisian café culture to the neighborhood. Le Bilboquet is a natural gathering spot to enjoy a chilled bottle of rosé alfresco or classic bistro fare like croque monsieur paired with a local draft beer.
lebilboquetdenver.com
299 St. Paul Street, Denver, CO 80206
(303) 835-9999
Mon - Fri 11:30 am - 9:00 pm Sat 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Sun 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Sat - Sun 10:30 am - 9:00 pm
RESTAURANTS
Spuntino
Spuntino Food & Wine claims a “Global Mind, Colorado Body, and Italian Soul” and the statement could not be more true. The owners, a husband and wife team, bring their passion for Italian food and culture to the Highlands region of Denver. Fresh, house-made focaccia, gnocchi, and gelato are enhanced by an extensive wine list and intimate setting.
spuntinodenver.com
2639 W. 32nd Avenue, Denver, CO 80211
(303) 433-0949
Dinner Wed Thurs - Fri 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Sat - Sun 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Happy Hour Tues- Sun 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
photo credit Emily Teater Photography
Tamayo
Patterned after Tequileiras in Mexico, Tamayo invites patrons in for delicious small plates and specialty margaritas designed to perfection, inciting conversation and community. This modern take on Mexican cuisine is not found at a typical Mexican restaurant. Served on the terrace while watching a spectacular sunset over the Rocky Mountains, first time visitors are sure to return.
eattamayo.com
1400 Larimer Street, Denver, CO 80202
(720) 946-1433
Lunch Mon - Fri 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Dinner Sun - Thurs 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Fri - Sat 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Brunch Sat - Sun 10:30 am - 2:30 pm
Happy Hour Daily at the tequila bar & lounge 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm
RESTAURANTS
The Corner Office and Martini Bar
The Corner Office, located in downtown Denver, opened in 2008 by restaurateur Peter Karpinski of Sage Restaurant Group. The Corn0er Office is where enjoying great food and cocktails is your only assignment Loosen up, kick back and slide into prime time with colleagues, friends or someone special. Designed with a modern eye for comfort and good times, The Corner Office features a bustling bar, energetic dining rooms, communal table and private event rooms.
thecornerofficedenver.com 1401 Curtis Street, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 825-6500 Mon - Thurs 6:00 am - 11:00 pm Fri- 6:00 am - 12:00 am Saturday Sunday 7:00 am - 12:00 am 7 :00am - 11 :00 pm
Toro
In the tradition of Central and South American convivial dining culture, Toro Denver features a ceviche bar, small plates, and family-style entrees, plus, hand-muddled cocktails and local beer and wine. Toro features authentic Latin ingredients, international flavors, and artful dishes at their Cherry Creek Denver restaurant.
torodenver.com
150 Clayton Lane, Ste B, Denver, CO 80206 (303) 253-3000
Brunch Sat - Sun 10:30 am - 3:00 pm
Dinner Mon - Thurs 4:00 pm - 10:00pm Fri & Sun Sat 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm 5:00 pm- 11:00 pm
Breakfast Mon -Fri Sat - Sun 6:00 am - 10:00 am 6:30 am - 10:00 am
Happy Hour Mon - Sun 3:00 pm - 5 :00 pm
RESTAURANTS
uchi Denver
Uchi Denver is a renowned contemporary Japanese restaurant located in the heart of Denver, offering a unique culinary experience with its creative fusion of traditional flavors and modern techniques. Known for its innovative sushi, sashimi, and hot dishes, Uchi Denver has gained a reputation for impeccable quality and a chic, inviting atmosphere, making it a must-visit for those seeking a sophisticated dining experience in the Mile High City.
uchi.uchirestaurants.com/location/denver/ 2500 Lawrence Street Denver, CO 80205 (303) 444-1922 Mon -Sun 4:00 pm - 10:00pm
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Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches
Bistro Le Roux
Bistro LeRoux, Chef Lon Symensma’s ode to the Meditteranean bistro, is gorgeously appointed and features an inventive menu of decadent fare in the heart of Denver’s LoDo neighborhood. From savory Croques Madame to decadent fresh-baked Cinnamon Rolls, LeRoux’s menu draws inspiration from Symensma’s time spent training (and eating!) in kitchens across Europe. lerouxdenver.com
1510 16th Street Denver, Colorado 80202 (720) 845-1673
Brunch Sat - Sun 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches
Brown Palace
Perked in an elegant corner of The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, Ellyngton’s is a stylishly appointed breakfast and lunchroom that offers a classy Sunday Brunch. With an extensive selection of exquisite menu items – guests can relish entrees like the prime rib quiche or the cured salmon toast. Patrons will get a taste of the hotel’s rich 130-year history by dining among the ornate décor and 19th century structures. .
brownpalace.com
321 17th Street, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 297-3111
Brunch at Ellyngton’s Sun 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Hilton Denver Inverness
Set against the backdrop of the picturesque Rocky Mountains, Hilton Denver Inverness’ Champagne Sunday brunch features over a 100 offerings each week. A local favorite, the Sunday brunch is hosted in The Garden Terrace and offers an omelet station; shellfish display, including shucked oysters; smoked salmon; snow crab legs; bay scallops; and more. Additionally, a wide display of mini desserts and weekly rotating dessert flambe is available. Prices start at $64.95 per person and $32 for children ages 6-12 (guests under five are complimentary). theclubatinverness.com/garden-terrace 200 Inverness Drive West, Englewood, CO 80112
Brunch Sun 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches
Tamayo Tamayo’s Bottomless Margarita Brunch is everything you want and everything you need going into fall and winter brunch dates with friends. The free-flowing small plates and brunch cocktails are offered every Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Enjoy unlimited small plates featuring delectable favorites like huevos rancheros, carnitas tacos and tres leches paired with mimosas, margaritas and Bloody Marias. Bottomless Food & Drink $55 - Bottomless Food Only $40.
eattamayo.com
(720) 946-1433
Brunch Sat - Sun 10:30 am - 3:00 pm
Toro
Denver is a city built on brunch and Toro’s brunch menu is a pioneer in pairing breakfast favorites with unique cultural cuisines from all over the world. Toro’s bottomless brunch is perfect to enjoy with friends and family in their outdoor courtyard that’s hidden within the dining room. Offered Saturday and Sunday with a bottomless food and drink option for $50, this brunch is exclusive but surely one you’ll never forget. Their brunch menu, features exotic dishes with Latin flair like the Zucchini Tiradito, huevos rancheros, shrimp corn enchiladas, churrasco and eggs and quinoa-fried rice. Toro is also introducing a new brunch dessert, which is sure to become a fan favorite: churro bread pudding!
torodenver.com
150 Clayton Lane, Ste B, Denver, CO 80206 (303) 253-3000
Brunch Sat - Sun 10:30 am - 3:00 pm
Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches
Snooze A.M. Eatery
Snooze’s new fall menu is here! The new menu includes three brand-new omelets, pumpkin pancakes and beverages and a big change to the lineup of Snooze’s Signature Pancake Flight with the addition of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes. Now, for the first time ever, guests can make reservations to dine at Snooze seven days a week!
snoozeeatery.com
*check website for all other locations 101 N. Broadway, Suite 1, Denver, 80203 ((720) 443-4540
Brunch Daily weekdays: 6:30 am - 2:30 pm weekends 6:30 am - 3:30 pm
Jill’s at The St. Julien
Although in Boulder, Jill’s definately is worth the drive from Denver! Brunch has returned to Jill’s Restaurant on both Saturdays and Sundays, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a new menu from executive chef Rich Byers. The thoughtful menu features fresh, local and dynamic ingredients with dishes such as a brioche croque madame with black truffle béchamel, Gruyère, an over-easy egg and River Bear ham, Shrimp & Grits with Gayla’s Georgia grits, and various Benedicts. Plus, brunch-goers can enjoy a build-your-own Tito’s Bloody Mary Bar loaded with mixes, toppings, hot sauce and more, in addition to bottomless mimosas.
stjulien.com
900 Walnut St., Boulder, CO 80302
(720) 406-7399
Brunch Sat - Sun 7:00 am - 3:00 pm
Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches
Olive & Finch
Olive & Finch, a “fine-casual” eatery from chef Mary Nguyen, will open a new location in Denver Union Station in early 2025. The third location of Olive & Finch will occupy the 1,879 square-foot space that formerly housed Snooze A.M. Eatery inside the iconic transportation hub. Olive & Finch Union Station will be open for dinner, happy hour, lunch, brunch and breakfast. It will offer a more robust selection of grab-and-go options than other Olive & Finch locations for travelers, including its own proprietary line of cold-pressed bottled juices, sandwiches, salads and more. The quick-service restaurant will also have a full craft coffee program, a liquor license and an emphasis on fresh-baked savory pastries and sweet treats.
oliveandfinch.com
*check website for all other locations
552 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80218 (303) 832-8663
7 am - 5 pm Daily | 7 days a week
Postino
Postino WineCafé’s brunch is a balance of light and indulgent while maintaining the brand’s reputation for lovingly-crafted, approachable and downright delicious offerings. Available at all Colorado locations on Saturdays and Sundays, the brunch menu features a lineup of “table bites” designed for sharing, mains, sides, brunch cocktails and an ever-changing selection of boutique wines.
postinowinecafe.com
check website for all Postino locations
Brunch Sat - Sun 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches
Urban Farmer
Located in Denver’s charming LoDo neighborhood Urban Farmer Steakhouse offers an extensive selection of brunch offerings, including classic dishes like buttermilk pancakes, waffles and French toast, and unique options such as rabbit hash, served with fingerling potato, endive slaw and confit egg yolk. The restaurant also offers a Bloody Mary bar, encouraging guests to concoct their own creations each weekend for just $25. The buffet is complete with 26 different toppings, including olives, celery, pickled vegetables, fresh cucumber, fresh horseradish, togarashi, in-house candied bacon with brown sugar and chili flake, a selection of spices, house made bloody mix and much, much more. For those who prefer bubbles, the mimosa bar features a selection of freshly-squeezed orange, grapefruit and cranberry juices and a selection of up to four berry toppings.
Brunch Sat - Sun 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
A Tsagas Furs and Leathers Designs
A Tsagas Furs and Leather Designs is a Leather and Fur Clothing Store in Denver, CO that creates customized designs, offers alterations, and even restyles your old fur and leather pieces into something current and stylish. If you’re looking for edgy fashions made of leather or fur, visit us today or contact us to find out more about our unique services
atsagasdesigns.com
974 S Monaco Pkwy Denver, CO 80224 (720) 941-3877 Monday 11:00 am- 5:00 pm
Monday-Friday 10:00 am- 7:00 pm Saturday 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Sunday CLOSED
LUXE FAVS
Today, father and son create a beautiful array of custom jewelry ranging from classic to contemporary. While Gnat Original Design is well known for our exquisite engagement rings, we also craft one-of-a-kind pieces in the entire range of jewelry using precious metals, fine gemstones and certified diamonds.
gnatjewelers.com
250 Columbine Street Suite 130 Denver, CO 80206 (303) 355-5050
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11:00 am - 6:00 pm
10:00 am- 6:00 pm
Gnat Jewelers
Moore For Life
Michael Moore has worked in the cosmetics industry since 1988 with brand leaders such as Bobbi Brown Essentials, Chanel, and Estée Lauder. In New York City, he was often seen backstage during fashion week, supporting major designers such as Oscar de la Renta, Bob Mackie, and Vera Wang. Michael’s client list included Oscar winners, First Ladies of the United States, and royalty.
Eventually, the quality of the Colorado lifestyle—the healthy, natural atmosphere that inspires his technique— drew him out west, where he opened Moore For Life in Denver’s own center of chic, Cherry Creek North.
mooreforlife.com
3035 East 3rd Avenue Denver, CO 80206 (303) 484-1857
Tues- Saturday 10 am - 6 pm
LUXE FAVS
Hermes
A family company whose craftspeople make, often by hand and always with love , bags and belts, diaries and dishes, scarves and shoes, perfumes and purses, ties and travelling furniture, as well as gloves, hats, watches, jewelery and clothes.
hermes.com
Cherry Creek Shoping Center
3000 E. First Avenue, Space P-206
Denver, CO 80206
(303) 388-0700
Tues-Saturday 11:00 am- 7:00 pm
Sunday CLOSED
Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum continues to wow visitors daily with its extensive display of world-class art, featuring painting and sculpture disciplines, modern and contemporary art, photography, textile art, and other representations from around the world. Temporary exhibitions provide a constant source of new art to view and appreciate. Special activities and games for kids are incorporated into the museum, allowing for an engaging and enlightening experience for all ages.
denverartmuseum.org
100 W. 14th Avenue Parkway, Denver, CO 80204 (720) 865-5000
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10am - 5pm Mon - Sun 10am - 8pm
Denver Center for the Performing Arts
The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) is the largest non-profit theatre organization in the country. From Broadway tours including performances such as Phantom of the Opera, Rent, Les Miserables, and Wicked, to more intimate theatres featuring comedy shows and other events, and education for all levels of thespian talent, the DCPA offers something for everyone.
denvercenter.org/ 1101 13th Street, Denver, CO 80204
Administrative offices: (303) 893-4100
Main Box Office: (303) 893-4100
Closed major holidays
Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens offers visitors an escape to a tranquil, 24-acre floral oasis. It features endless trails to meander while surrounded by a stunning display of natural beauty, showcasing local plants as well as plants from around the world. Many enjoy stopping in at the Offshoots Cafe for a coffee and croissant before continuing their journey. Families enjoy the Mordecai Children’s Garden, a rooftop garden designed for kids, providing them with a safe space to explore and connect with nature.
botanicgardens.org
1007 York Street, Denver, CO 80206 (720) 865-3500
Sun-Thurs 10am - 9pm Fri-Sat 10am - 9:30pm Mon - Sun 9am - 5pm
CULTURE
Downtown Aquarium
The Downtown Aquarium is truly an underwater adventure with exhibits featuring creatures in multiple habitats across the globe. From the desert to the rainforest and everything in between, visitors of all ages will marvel at the beauty of this underwater life. Aquarium visits are enhanced by dining at the aquarium restaurant where delicious meals are served with a view of a 50,000 gallon aquarium containing tropical fish, sharks, and even a mermaid or two.
aquariumrestaurants.com/downtownaquariumdenver
700 Water Street, Denver, CO 80211 (303) 561-4450
Denver Museum of Nature & Science
The DMNS provides visitors with multiple exhibits to explore and perform hands-on activities. Visit the Health exhibit to test your strength and view your self-portrait from 50 years in the future. Explore the Space Odyssey exhibit and experiment with the impacts of water, air, and magnets. Walk through the Wildlife dioramas to experience the magnificent size of a bear. The Discovery Zone was specially designed for small children and gives them the opportunity to expand the use of their fives senses within a safe environment. Museum visitors also enjoy the many shows offered at the IMAX and Planetarium.
dmns.org/ 2001 Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO 80205 (303) 370-6000
Museum Mon - Sun 9am - 5pm except Dec 25)
Shop Mon - Sun 9am - 5pm
Dock Hours 8am - 2:30pm
CULTURE
photo courtesy of The Ritz Carlton
