Denver Colorado Luxury magazine Spring 2025

COURTNEY OLSON

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.

1.6 Million Americans Live with Type 1 Diabetes–Yet There’s Hope.

45% of patients at the BDC are uninsured or underinsured.

The Children’s Diabetes Foundation funds groundbreaking research, education, and care to improve the lives of children and adults living with type 1 diabetes at the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes (BDC).

The Barbara Davis Center is a world-renowned institution providing leading-edge treatment and research located in Colorado.

With your support, we are bringing innovation, hope, and a future where the cure is within reach.

8,000+ patients are served at the Barbara Davis Center.

35% of BDC patients are living at or below the poverty level.

Join Us in Changing Lives.

Know the Symptoms—extreme thirst, frequent urination, bedwetting, fatigue, weight loss and stomach pain.

Support Pioneering Research—help us move closer to a cure.

Donate or Learn More at ChildrensDiabetesFoundation.org.

Gwenivere Snyder

Your Concierge REALTOR®

Denver to Aspen, Boulder to Castle Rock

98% List to Sale Ratio

303.718.1085

g@gwensnyderrealestate.com gwensnyderrealestate.com

Your Move, Seamless from Start to Finish

Planning to buy or sell? Now is the perfect time to start your journey! Securing the best deal is a given; making it seamless for you is what sets me apart. No question is too big or small—reach out anytime via text, call, or email!

Luxury Tailored Experience

• Colorado Native

• 23+ years of luxury real estate expertise

• Unmatched integrity and discretion

• Tailored concierge services

• Obsessive attention to detail

What Sets Me Apart

• Trusted REALTOR® by top athletes and owners (has worked with over 55)

• Strong affiliates across the nation

• Master of social media and marketing proficiency

Who You Work With Matters

• Top 1.5% Nationwide | RealTrends Verified

• Top 100 Broker in Denver Metro | Mile High Leaders

• 5280 Top Producer | Double Black Diamond

• Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate Honoree

Philanthropy is Close to My Heart

I Donate 10% of Each Deal to a Charity:

• Douglas County Community Foundation

• Cradle to Career

• Colorado Children’s Foundation

• Bruton’s Books

• TJ Ward Foundation

• A Precious Child

Recent Sales

15490 Mountain View Circle

Spruce Meadows, Broomfield

Sold for $6,000,000

Represented the Seller

14046 Lexington Circle

Lexington, Westminster

Sold for $2,150,000

Represented the Seller

102 Coulter Place

The Village at Castle Pines, Castle Rock

Sold for $4,250,000

Represented the Buyer | Listed by LIV

2814 Eagle Circle

Vista Ridge, Erie

Sold for $1,200,000

Represented the Seller

Trisha Ventker About the Editor

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

Chef Luke Hodnett

Bradley Joseph

Kate Loweth

Trisha Ventker

trisha@ventkermedia.com

cover photo credit of Courtney: Ryan Northrop

Feature

An Interview with Courtney Olson

Home

Spring Into Action: Are Home Prices On the Rise?

Fashion

Elie Tahari - Legacy of a Survivor The Art of Fashion

Food & Wine

Prosciutto Pizza with Peach Balsamic Drizzle

Travel

Aspen Meadows Resort, Bauhaus-Inspired Luxury Retreat

Europe at Your Own Pace: The Magic of Slow Travel by Eurail Lana’i Luxury

Mexico City: Central Hoteles & Balcón Del Zócalo

Health & Beauty

Dana Davis: A Journey of Strength and Advocacy

Hotels, Restaurants, Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches Boutiques and Culture Guide

Must Haves: Spring Gift Ideas

Denver Guide

Contributors

Richard Carroll

“Elie Tahari - Legacy of a Survivor”

Mary Hill

“Spring Into Action: Are Home Prices On the Rise?”

Kate Loweth

“Europe at Your Own Pace: The Magic of Slow Travel by Eurail”

Contributors

“Prosciutto

Bradley Joseph

“Dana Davis: A Journey of Strength and Advocacy ”

Trisha Ventker

“Aspen Meadows Resort, Bauhaus-Inspired Luxury Retreat”

“Lana’i Luxury”

“Mexico City: Central Hoteles & Balcón Del Zócalo”

Chef Luke Hodnett

Pizza with Peach Balsamic Drizzle”

FEATURE

FEATURE

Q

Meet Courtney Olson

Courtney Olson is the distinguished fine art advisor at Relevant Galleries, a premier contemporary art destination in Cherry Creek North, Denver. As part of AD Gallerie, a legacy company with over 30 years in the fine art industry, Relévant Galleries offers an elevated experience for discerning collectors. Olson brings a refined eye for curation, guiding clients toward investment-worthy masterpieces from internationally renowned artists.

Relévant Galleries is one of nine elite art spaces, with locations in Aspen, Vail, Beaver Creek, Denver, Santa Fe, Scottsdale, Park City, and an exhibition gallery in Dallas. Each location is tailored to its market, with Cherry Creek North specializing in exclusive collections, including the works of David Yarrow and Gib Singleton. Olson’s expertise ensures that collectors receive a bespoke and sophisticated journey through the world of fine art.

A

Courtney Olson

with

Photo credit on wall: David Yarrow photo credit of Courtney: Ryan Northrop

CDTell us about yourself. Where did you originally come from?

I was born in Aspen, Colorado, and raised in the Roaring Fork Valley—a place that nurtured both my love of nature and creativity. My earliest memories involve time spent in our Aspen gallery, visiting artist studios, and attending exhibitions with my parents. The art world wasn’t just something I observed—it was the rhythm of daily life. My great uncle, Paul Zueger, founded our family’s first gallery, and over the years my parents (Mike & Lynnette Olson) became a integral part of the company. So, that passion for art and collecting became part of my identity. After studying business and art history, I knew I wanted to carry that legacy forward—while also bringing my own perspective to the evolving art landscape.

CDHow did you get involved with Relevant Galleries?

Relevant Galleries was created as a way to reimagine our family’s legacy through a contemporary lens. I stepped in to launch the brand with the goal of bridging established and emerging artists with a new generation of collectors. It was an opportunity to build something that felt fresh and relevant, while still grounded in the values that shaped our history—integrity, curation, and connection.

DCan you tell us about Relevant Galleries and how it fits into the larger structure of AD Galleries?

CRelevant Galleries is one of several distinct gallery identities operating under AD Galleries, our parent company. AD Galleries owns and operates 12 locations across Aspen, Vail, Denver, Park City, Scottsdale, and Santa Fe, and has grown into one of the country’s leading fine art networks. Each gallery under the AD umbrella retains its own character, with Relevant focused specifically on contemporary art with compelling narrative depth. Our approach is rooted in long-term relationships and thoughtful storytelling, which is why collectors and artists alike continue to grow with us.

CDWhy are you passionate about what you do?

Art has this incredible ability to challenge, inspire, and connect people. I love helping someone discover a piece that truly speaks to them—that moment when a collector realizes, “This is not just wall art.” It’s about building relationships, not just transactions. And working closely with artists, watching their careers grow, is unbelievably rewarding. I consider it a privilege to be a part of that journey and making history.

DHow has being a thirdgeneration leader shaped your approach and passion for the gallery business?

CCarrying on a family legacy is both an honor and a responsibility. Being raised in this world gave me a deep understanding of the art market, but also the human side of the business—what it means to truly connect with people through art. I think the most exciting part of being a third-generation leader is finding ways to honor our legacy while pushing the gallery into the future. There’s a real joy in bridging tradition with evolution.

DWhat’s on the horizon for Relevant Galleries and AD Galleries?

CWe’re in a period of exciting growth. At Relevant, we’re expanding our programming with immersive exhibitions, strategic collaborations with curators and institutions, and new opportunities to engage collectors beyond the walls of our galleries. From private events and art fairs to educational initiatives. Ultimately, it’s about creating meaningful, lasting experiences for collectors and offering artists a platform where their work is valued and celebrated.

Lynnette Zueger-Olson & Paul Zueger with Brooke Shields -for an Aspen Grove Fine Arts gallery event - 1993

Paul & Bonnie Zueger (Founders/Partner of AD Galleries), Mike Olson & Lynnette Zueger-Olson (Partners of AD Galleries), Courtney Olson (Gallery Director of Relevant Galleries), Russell Wilson & Ciara- 2023

Courtney Olson, Aspen Grove Fine Arts - 1998

Relévant Galleries is honored to be the premier representative of David Yarrow’s work worldwide. Visit our galleries to explore the collection, or call/text us at 720-799-6604 to schedule a private appointment with one of our art consultants.

At Right: Fargo, Ed of 12; Large 71 x 99

Top Left: The Road to Amalfi, Ed of 12; Large 71x91; Standard 52x65 Center Left: The Witness, Ed of 12; Large 71x104; Standard 52x74 Bottom Left: The Lodge at Vail, Ed of 12; Large 71x86; Standard 52x62

HOME

HOME

“Spring Into Action: Are Home Prices On the Rise?”

Mary Hill

Spring Into Action: Are Home Prices On the Rise?

Mary Hill Broker/Realtor

Mary Hill Properties

The Denver Metro housing market carried strong momentum into February 2025, offering buyers more options and signaling a shift toward a more balanced landscape.

More Listings, More Choices

New listings saw a year-over-year increase, giving buyers a wider selection. Month over month, new listings surged by 14%, while pending sales jumped 23%, reflecting renewed confidence in the market.

Home Prices on the Rise

The median closed price climbed to $599,000, continuing its upward trend. Compared to January, prices rose by 4%, and homes were selling faster—median days on the market dropped by 14 days.

A Market Finding Its Equilibrium

While homes spent a median of 33 days on the market, longer than the frenzied pace of previous years, this is still well below the typical 90-day timeline of a historically balanced market.

For Buyers

Now is the time to buy. More inventory means more options and more room to negotiate. If you have vision, you can negotiate price on dated homes with great ROI (Return on Investment) potential. Just changing paint colors and flooring will realize you gains. Historically, waiting to buy a home will cost you money with appreciation hovering around 4 to 5 percent. And it’s critical to get pre-approved financing so you can be ready to buy when the right home comes on the market.

For Sellers

Spring and summer are historically prime selling seasons. To maximize the ROI on your home, staging is critical. Something as basic as the color of your front door can make a difference of thousands in the selling price of your home. Dated properties will benefit from a coat of paint (107%) and perhaps new flooring. Decluttering and making your home feel like their home will bring in more high-quality buyers and offers.

What Can We Expect for the Spring Denver Metro Housing Market?

With inventory expanding and demand holding steady, the Denver Metro housing market appears to be stabilizing. Sellers are seeing price appreciation, while buyers benefit from increased choices. As we move into spring, all eyes will be on mortgage rates, a key factor in shaping the market’s trajectory. From all indications more sellers are selling and more buyers are buying. Since interest rates have been steady for the last couple of months, buyers are more accustomed to these rates and are taking the plunge into home ownership. All indications are that this trend will continue into Spring.

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

Elie Tahari - Legacy of a Survivor

Richard Carroll

“I had a lot of challenges and that makes you stronger.”

Elie Tahari

“Elie Tahari - Legacy of a Survivor”

Richard Carroll

Elie Tahari was born in Jerusalem, January 21, 1952, the middle son of Iranian-Jewish parents. His early life was the embodiment of the classic rags-to-riches tale with a dramatic emphasis on the latter. Israel had been a nation for just four arduous years in 1952, and the nation’s lethal struggles with Palestine and others, which are ongoing today, were then a daily occurrence.

Raised in the epicenter of this penetrating and deadly political conflict, Elie Tahari was blessed with the spirit and passion to endure nearly insurmountable early difficulties with an emotional depth and righteous fervor that were his prevailing legacy. His early years shaped his character and helped him to comprehend the true fragility of success, an awareness which has remained with him a lifetime. Later he said, “I had a lot of challenges and that made me stronger. I had nothing, so nothing to lose.”

After a brief back-and-forth across the border, Elie’s family closed the door on Iran for good, immigrating to Israel after his father’s fabric store in Tehran was torched, settling in a transit camp, and living in a tent lacking water and electricity. Elie recalled that it was hot in the summer and cold in the winter, and his garb of the day was tattered clothes that were dirty and wrinkled. Later, he was sent by Israeli social services to an orphanage where he recalled receiving a new pair of shoes each year. During his early teenage years, he also lived in a kibbutz, an integral part of Israeli society where he learned the value and importance of work, and also enjoyed the pleasures of adequate clothing and food. His formative years were spent at a boy’s boarding school in Tel Aviv where he would sneak into movie theatres and spend the day, and then at an Israeli Air Force boarding school in Haifa, the third largest city in Israel, 56 miles north of Tel Aviv.

New York City, the American dream

“I had to succeed. Failure meant I would have to be homeless again.” Elie Tahari

In 1971 at age 19, Elie talked his way into a free flight to New York City arriving with $60 dollars in his pocket, little command of the English language, and not knowing a solitary person in the city. He walked store-to-store searching for work, washed cars, slept at the YMCA and also on a Central Park bench when he was low on funds, and eventually did find a job as an electrician in Manhattan’s Garment District. Not content with his day job, he doubled nights as a salesclerk in a Greenwich Village boutique quickly attaining a clear sense of New York City’s fashion world. With no formal fashion training, but gifted with an attentive observant eye, he soon would be joining an elite group of fashion personalities such as Coco Chanel, Chloe, Louis Vuitton, and Gianni Versace, all of whom began their fashion careers with enormous challenges.

Burn The Bra

In 1968 and throughout the 70’s, a wave of feminism was sweeping across the land led by Gloria Steinem and the liberating and symbolic catchphrase “Burn the Bra” which was redeeming for many. Elie noticed that countless women in the city were going braless. By luck he found a stock of fabric tubes, purchased them for two dollars a tube, and redesigned them to replace a bra and resold them for four dollars. Streetwise and ingenious, he slipped into a trade show with his tubes and in a few hours he had amassed nearly a thousand orders, which was the beginning of his fashion career. He created a collection of clothes and, with help from others and a top-tier team, he opened his first boutique on Madison Avenue in 1974 at age 22, only three years after immigrating from Israel.

Elie was inspired by the New York nightclub scene and forged ahead in 1974 with his first runway show at Studio 54, which was the place to disco dance and feel absolutely free, whether one were gay, straight, or transgender. The club was the center of the universe at the time, a young adult amusement park that captured the imagination. Hundreds of celebrities and characters danced in Studio 54, and Elie’s collection, centering on the trendy disco look of the day, was a smash hit.

Elie expanded in the eighties from disco wear to elegant and classic tailored suits and jackets, quality tailoring, and garments that remain stylish with rich patterns that come to life. In 1989, he opened shops in Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdales, and eventually in the 1990’s his brand was carried by all major department stores. Expanding further, Tahari’s first catalogue was sent to some 250,000 customers. Elie met Rory Green at his 46th birthday party in 1998, when she was 27; they married and worked together for 11 years. Rory, exceedingly well-educated and a television producer, was the driving force in bringing the label to new heights from $50 m to $500 m, by reacting swiftly to fashion tendencies. They had two children together and separated amicably. After Rory departed the label, her business career ascended skyward as a distinguished public speaker, board member and CEO of international corporations.

“I had a lot of challenges and that makes you stronger.” Elie Tahari

In 1997 Tahari introduced Theory, a new line that is sophisticated and timeless, and in 2002 the company’s name was changed from Tahari to Elie Tahari as the label expanded globally to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. In 2013, then New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg declared September 4th “Elie Tahari Day.” Elie was also honored with the Ellis Island Medal of Honor which pays homage to the immigrants’ experience and the contribution made to America by immigrants and their children. His billion-dollar fashion empire is growing, and in the documentary, The United States of Fashion Designer Elie Tahari, he re-visited the exact bench in Central Park he slept on when broke, and thankfully his Central Park dreams of a better life have come true.

the art of fashion

model: Courtney Olson

photography: Ryan Northrop

camera assitant: Ezra Bram

stylist: Tiaja Pierre

on-site HMUA: Tiaja Pierre

location: Relevant Galleries

green vase: Modern Bungalow

floral arrangements: Bee & Pollen

wardrobe: white gown: Willowby

black jacket dress: A.L.C.

pink ruffled dress: V. Chapman

black sling back heels: Saint Laurent

white & silver block heels: Tony Bianco

jewelry: model’s own

FOOD&WINE

FOOD&WINE

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.

Prosciutto Pizza with Peach Balsamic Drizzle

Chef Luke Hodnett

Leven Supply 300 E. Alameda Ave. Unit D, Denver eatleven.com/supply

Makes: 1x 14” Pizza

Ingredients:

1 pizza dough ball (or premade crust)

¼ cup garlic oil or Extra virgin olive oil

¼ cup peach balsamic drizzle

5 pieces whole milk mozzarella, sliced

2 ounces prosciutto, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

AP or Semolina flour for rolling out dough, if using fresh

Directions:

1. If using a pizza stone, place it in your oven and preheat to 500 F for at least 30 min. If using a pre-made crust, simply follow the directions that came with it and skip to step three.

2. Dust your work surface with flour and work your dough into a roughly 14-inch circle. Place on a pizza peel.

3. Cover the dough in a thin layer of the oil so there are no dry spots of dough.

4. Place the slices of mozzarella evenly around the pizza, leaving gaps between them.

5. Bake the pizza until the cheese is bubbly and the dough has some nice brown coloring to it (5-10 mins).

6. Once the pizza is out of the oven, cut it into eight slices.

7. Place a small pile of thinly sliced prosciutto on each slice of pizza.Garnish whole pizza with fresh basil (the more the better!).

8. Drizzle with plenty of peach balsamic and serve immediately.

Pro tip: cut a lemon in half and char cut side down on a hot pan until it has a deep color to it. Serve as a garnish that you squeeze over the pizza right before serving to add an extra boost of flavor and acidity.

“Pizza is a near-perfect food. With a hot oven and a handful of quality ingredients, you can make something truly special whether you are in a professional kitchen or feeding your family at home on a weeknight. Though it may seem intimidating, it has never been easier to make your own pizza wherever you may be cooking.

I’m going to share how we make one of our signature menu items at our new restaurant Leven Supply: our prosciutto pizza with peach balsamic drizzle. You’ll be shocked at how much flavor that just a few ingredients can pack on this pizza – it’s basically a charcuterie board on a pizza – and I guarantee you won’t be able to stop at just one slice once you taste it.

The easiest way to make the pizza at home is to start with a premade crust you can source from any grocer, but adventurous cooks can break out a pizza stone and try out that dough recipe you’ve had bookmarked but haven’t tried yet. This pizza works great with almost any crust style and will still be delicious and look great.

The beauty of this dish is that you can substitute many of the ingredients with any quality ingredients you have around and still get an incredible meal. Make it gluten free by buying a GF crust, swap the prosciutto out with a vegetable, add grilled peaches or find a different style balsamic drizzle if you see something fun at the store. Endless possibilities to create something that will WOW your guests!

Of course you can always let us do the cooking for you if you visit us at Leven Supply and see all the scratch-made offerings we have (including all our naturally leavened sourdough pizzas). But you can also come visit us anytime you need some unique ingredients or a bottle of wine to add to your meal at home. My favorite part of our new concept at Supply is the grocery and retail offerings we have that take all the stress out of having to look around for quality ingredients that can really make a meal or gift stand out.

We love talking pizza, so stop by and see us if you ever have any questions or just want to share some photos of what you created!” – Chef Luke Hodnett

TRAVEL

TRAVEL

Aspen Meadows Resort, Bauhaus-Inspired Luxury Retreat

Trisha Ventker

Aspen Meadows Bauhaus-InspiredResort,Luxury Retreat

Trisha Ventker

Bauhaus is the principles of simplicity, functionality, and the use of geometric shapes and bold colors.

Visiting Aspen Meadows, I’m won over by the stunning beauty of Colorado, and the luxurious ski town of Aspen, harmonizing with nature, and living the moment in this gorgeous venue. I’ve said it before, but Aspen is another fantastic Colorado setting where the famed ski town meets the Rocky Mountains, complete with the nearby Roaring Fork River. It’s my birthday weekend celebration with my husband Tom, and our first visit to Bauhaus-themed, Aspen Meadows, featuring 98 a ll-suite accommodations on a striking 40-acre landscape. We were greeted by the warmth of our spacious corner, one-bedroom Mountain View suite, a sanctuary of Bauhaus elegance, offering a dining area, curated artwork, and an intuitive layout designed for both relaxation and function.

Bauhaus

Bauhaus was founded in Weimer Germany, in 1919 by a German architect, to combine art and design into a unified whole, and to make everyday objects more functional and interesting, such as simplicity and effectiveness. Bauhaus, abolishing the separation between artist and craftsman, and a unification across all art forms to create a complete design environment. Bauhaus, in German, translates to “building house” or “construction house,” and in Weimer, the Bauhaus University teaches students the essence of the international style that has proven to be one of the most influential design aesthetics in history. The university offers 40 courses of study covering architecture, art and design.

Aspen Meadows, a Vision of Bauhaus Elegance

Originally envisioned by Herbert Bayer, a pioneer of the Bauhaus movement, the resort was designed to inspire reflection, creativity, and intellectual engagement. Managed by Salamander Collection, Aspen Meadows has undergone a full-room renovation, introduced West End Social Club, opened Meadows Café, a forthcoming Health Center renovation, and during ski season, Aspen Meadows has enhanced skiers with a resolute ski concierge, and expanded complimentary shuttles. Walking through the resort, my notes include the architecture and the harmonious integration with nature, the clean lines and geometric forms, all with the Bauhaus viewpoint, and remaining to Bayer’s original concept. Our suite and the 97 other suites are designed with floor-to-ceiling windows flooding the room with natural light, and sweeping mountain views. The open layout was placed with sleek furnishings, and understated color palettes, creating a calm, modern setting. I recognized the purposeful minimalism, and simple yet sophisticated interior with streamlined furniture and the intriguing geometric patterns. The suites also have a kitchenette, coffee station, a cozy lounge area, dedicated space for ski gear, and expansive balconies or patios, inviting guests to fully experience the surrounding wilderness, with a seamless outdoor, indoor flow.

Aspen Meadows Bauhaus-InspiredResort,Luxury Retreat

Design, Fashion and Fine Dining

Our first full day began smartly enjoying breakfast at Meadows Café, with intriguing Bauhaus décor and an eclectic book collection, providing the perfect ambience for yogurt parfaits, monkey bread, tasty croissants and lavender lattes. A friend, Sanji, joined us from Vail, and we wandered through Aspen’s high-end boutiques, such as Dior, Valentino, Prada and Louis Vuitton, most of which have been featured in Denver Colorado Luxury Magazine. Sanji admired a mini blue ombre Dior Lady Joy bag, while I was tempted by a Dior steel blue coat. Though we left empty-handed, we relished the fantasy of owning such a luxury. We chose lunch at Casa Tua, with locations in Miami Beach and Paris, offering creative Italian and International dishes, and spent the afternoon at the exclusive Gravity Haus Social Club, a clubby and luxurious 18,00-square-foot retreat blending adventure, community and comfort. We sipped on handcrafted drinks in a private lounge and cocktail bar, checked out the state-of-the-art gym, sauna, and cold plunge at the Wellness Center, and Coworking & Meeting Spaces, with panoramic views of Wagner Park and Aspen Mountain. Skiers have access to lockers, gear rentals, and exclusive access to premium ski equipment.

Dining, Wayan Aspen

Wayan was another special treat experiencing classic French Indonesian cuisine, created by brothers, Cedri and Ochi Vongerichten, who moved Wayan from Aspen’s Little Nell hotel to an attractive stand-alone, chalet-style building with Aspen character. The room has a blazing wood-fired fireplace, the walls adorned with Indonesian and Balinese artwork, and one of my favorite restaurant details, an open kitchen. Busy chefs prepared the traditional Indonesian sweet Yellow Rice, created with saffron or turmeric, and raisins, sugar and cinnamon. The Charred Chicken Lombok, was pungent with taste, and a flavor of Thai basil while dressed with roasted spiced carrots. A bowl of Lobster Noodles, designed with Indo noodles, a sprinkle of black pepper, butter and Thai basil, was a delight with layers of flavor. We tip our hats to the Wayan Aspen chefs’.

Saturday: A Birthday Celebration in Style

It was a gorgeous morning, a little brisk, clouds wandering, and immense mountains towering skyward. An Aspen visit is incomplete without skiing at one of the premier Aspen ski resorts. We chose Aspen Snowmass, offering four legendary mountains: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk, with 5,700 plus acres of terrain for all skill levels. Tom, an excellent skier, tested his skills on numerous runs. Aspen Snowmass, founded in 1946, offers the pinnacle of alpine adventure, and has transformed the town into a global ski mecca, offering lessons from worldclass ski and snowboard professionals, ski concierge services with personalized equipment fittings, slope-side storage and private guides. For hungry or fatigued skiers, Snowmass has luxury mountain dining from cliffside après-ski lounges to five-star alpine bistros, and dining opportunities across the four mountains. We headed back to Aspen Meadows after a day on the slopes at Snowmass, to the Bayer Center for a deeper dive into Herbert Bayer, the Bauhaus visionary behind Aspen Meadows.

Herbert Bayer: The Bauhaus Mastermind Shaping Aspen’s Identity

Tom, my husband, is architecturally trained, adores the science, art and skill of architecture, and was eager to touch on Herbert Bayer, a true Renaissance man, (1900–1985) who was a graphic designer, painter, sculptor, architect, and environmental designer, who helped shape Aspen’s modern identity. He was designing for Vogue Magazine Berlin in 1937, just before World War II, and the Nazis declared his work “degenerate art.” Thankfully, in 1946, Bayer landed in Aspen, designed the Aspen Institute, restored the Wheeler Opera House, and transformed Aspen into a center for art and culture. Bayer was also an art design consultant for ARCO, overseeing the creation of one of the world’s largest corporate art collections, and designed the ARCO logo. His monumental sculpture, Double Ascension, 1972, is enjoyed in Los Angeles at downtown’’s City National Plaza, mounted with a 60-foot diameter pool, and remains a valued landmark.

Saturday Night – A Culinary Grand Fiesta

Tyler, well versed with the menu, and with meticulous service, was our server at Aspen Meadows, West End Social, for my birthday dinner. The restaurant offers an elegant yet inviting ambience with dramatic floor-to-ceiling mountain views. First on the table was fresh and heady Rosemary Olive Sourdough, seemingly direct from the oven, with slabs of preserved lemon butter, and Caviar Bumps drizzled with sweet and salty olive oil. Our entrées with recommendations, were a platter of Steak & Prawns, which were a perfectly grilled Texas Wagyu, the prawns, butter-poached with chimichurri, a favorite sauce that originated in Argentina with fresh herbs, garlic, olive oil and vinegar. A side of crispy Brussels sprouts with maple vinaigrette balanced the richness. However, pasty chef, Sara Figueiredo, stole the show. She worked at Harvest in Boston’s Harvard Square, an Italian-focused stint at Babbo and Eataly, and moved to San Francisco, where she worked at Michelin-starred Lazy Bear before arriving in Aspen. She created a bonfire-inspired s’ mores creation of molten chocolate, semifreddo with brown sugar, marshmallows, Graham crackers, cookie butter, and white chocolate lava sauce. The finishing touch was a spectacular pastry display with a handcrafted white chocolate mountain with tiny skiers. It was a breathtaking edible tribute to Aspen, created by a talented pastry chef.

When You Go

Aspen Meadows is much more than a resort. It’s an immersive experience in art, design, and mountain luxury. Whether you’re drawn to Bauhaus architecture, world-class skiing, or creative cuisine, Aspen Meadows seamlessly blends historic heritage with modern indulgence. Colorado residences save up to 20 percent on select stays. Ikon, Aspen Snowmass Premier & Mountain Collection Pass Holders, enjoy up to 25 percent off.

Timeless Luxury in Downtown Denv

DAILY AFTERNOON TEA | LIVE MUSIC | ATRIUM COCKTAILS

Europe at Your Own Pace:

The Magic of Slow Travel by Eurail

New routes for 2025 provide access to even more cities.

Kate Loweth

Kate Loweth is happiest when glamping in a national park, snorkeling in the Caribbean, or dining on unfamiliar food in a far-off place. She has been writing about travel for over a decade. Her work has appeared in AAA, AARP, Business Insider, Thrillist, and Success Magazine.

Europe at Your Own Pace: The Magic

of Slow Travel by Eurail

New routes for 2025 provide access to even more cities.

Kate Loweth

Gone are the days when taking the train through Europe was reserved for post-college kids with massive backpacks. This past December, I used a 4-day Eurail Global Pass to visit the European Christmas markets, starting my journey in Heidelberg, Germany, and ending in Vienna, with stops in Basel and Innsbruck along the way. My days were filled with glühwein, spätzle, and bratwurst, and when it was time to move on to the next city, Eurail made it easy.

Eurail Offers Flexibility

I purchased a first-class Flexi Pass, which was very straightforward to use. I could choose which four days in the 30-day period I wanted to use the pass, and they didn’t have to be consecutive, allowing me to spend more time in Heidelberg riding the funicular to the castle and seeing the stunning city from above.

This flexibility is particularly great when you want to keep your travel options open. When I was riding the train between Basel and Innsbruck, I was chatting with a fellow traveler sitting across the aisle from me. He shared a few of the places he’d just visited that had unique Christmas markets. The Eurail Rail Planner mobile app allowed me to easily switch my itinerary when needed, book seat reservations, and see train delays in real time. Best of all, I didn’t have to worry about losing a paper ticket.

First Class Offers Elevated Service

Eurail doesn’t have its own trains; instead, it utilizes a network of railway providers to connect 33 countries and over 30,000 destinations. The levels of service available depend on the railway provider, with some offering first-class seating for an upgraded price. On the trains I took, the first-class section provided more space, with a 2-1 seating configuration instead of the 2-2 configuration that second-class offered. There was also more room for baggage in first class, which is particularly helpful when carting your luggage all over Europe.

Food was available for purchase in first class, and we had a waiter who came through and took our orders, so there was no need to go to the dining car for meal service. I enjoyed a surprisingly delicious meal of currywurst with sauerkraut and a warm roll that went great with the refreshing Radler I ordered. Watching the rolling green hills and snow-capped mountains go by as I enjoyed my meal from my seat was a real treat. While air travel feels like a means to an end that you just need to endure, seeing Europe via Eurail was an enjoyable part of my travel experience.

New Routes

Eurail kicked off 2025 with new routes and faster connections. Travelers can now visit Poland via the Eurail Pass, and a streamlined Vilnius–Riga–Tallinn route makes it possible to travel from Vilnius to Tallinn in one day. Travelers between Berlin and Paris can get there in eight hours via a new high-speed rail service, an excellent alternative to airplane travel that lets you avoid crowded airports.

Access Eurail’s planning guide to map out routes and find the perfect pass for your summer or Christmas market trip.

DREAM IN Color

Lana’i Luxury

Trisha Ventker

Lana’i Luxury

Trisha Ventker

White Lotus inspired retreat with-out the drama. A luxurious escape to Sensei Lana’i, Four Seasons.

The pungent bouquet of Cook Pines merged with the engaging sweetness of tropical flowers, plants, and a rich, vigorous and enriching earth with countless shades of green, set a mood of contentment and bliss, as a light breeze from the ocean played with a scattering of silvery clouds, beneath a deep blue Lana‘i sky. My body sending a huge Lana’i thanks to the refreshing and fragrant breeze that delighted the lungs. Succeeding 2024 a difficult year, a few days at the secluded Sensei Lana’i, A Four Seasons Resort, tucked away on Hawaii’s island of Lana’i, is an appreciated embrace. The stunning wellness enclave designed to rejuvenate and relight the spirit and body, and well-being, on an island that flutters the spirit, and boosts good thoughts into the realm of life. The five-star, five-diamond, 35-acre wellness and fitness enclave is on the southeastern coast of Lana’i, in the mist-kissed highlands, overlooking Hulopoe Bay, is Hawaii’s smallest, publicly accessed inhabited island in the chain, encompassing 140-square-miles, with all of 3,000 residents. Lana’i City, a 20-minute drive from the Four Seasons, which, for me, was more like a town, was at one time a noted plantation center, and one of the largest producers of pineapples in the world. Today the municipality stands with a strong individual character, not a tourist town, and with one school and hospital, no high-rises, no chain restaurants, no stop or streetlights, and no dress code. Sandals, shorts and a floppy hat work well with the Lana’i Aloha spirit.

The Sensei Lana’i, A Four Seasons Resort, a low-rise, adults only destination, managed by Four Seasons since 2005, was designated as a wellness retreat in 2019. With 96 suites and guest rooms, five restaurants, and a 1,000-square-foot, Japanese inspired, spa, the overall island setting touches me like I’m on another, feel-good planet, far from the everyday pursuit.

Arrival; A Journey to Seclusion

The adventure began with a midday non-stop United flight from Denver to Honolulu, followed by a private six-seater flight to Lana’i, an astonishing transition from city to untouched Nirvana. As we descended, I observed rugged cliffs, expansive plateaus, and striking, emerald greenery. It brought back memories of just how gorgeous Hawaii is, as my last visit was some 30 years ago. Stepping into Sensei Lana’i, A Four Seasons Resort, I felt an immediate exhalation, the shift from routine to retreat. My spacious room, 220, was an oasis in itself with warm, light wood tones, modern touches, and the gold standard of bathroom luxury, a Japanese “Toto” commode.

Reservations: 808.435.6587

A Culinary Experience at Nobu Lana’i.

My first experience with Nobu cuisine was in Los Cabos. (Please see, Spring/Summer issue, 2023, Nobu, Los Cabos, and Holiday 2019, Nobu, Los Cabos, Denver Colorado Luxury Magazine) Inspired by famed Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa, and creating from the wealth of the sea, his Black Miso Cod has become one of the most copied dishes on the planet. The Four Seasons, maintaining fresh cuisine, and a seamless locale for Nobu cuisine, as 75 percent of the resort’s fruit and vegetables, and beverages are sourced from local farmers, fishermen, and purveyors. The first evening unfolded at Sensei by Nobu, where dinner was a ceremonial indulgence, designed not only for flavor but for optimal nutrition. A Yellowtail Jalapeño, had the perfect balance of a delicate fish preparation, dressed with Yuzu soy, cilantro, Jalapeño peppers, garlic paste, and just the right amount of heat. A refreshing Kohlrabi Salad was created with Sensei farms Romaine, Parmesan crème fraiche dressing , candied pecans, dry miso, a ruffle dressing, and crispy leeks. Ahi Ginger Tosazu, was a locally caught Big Eye Tuna, finished with tasty red onions and a ginger Tosazu sauce, loaded with layers of flavor. The grilled Ribeye bathed in a decadent white truffle butter sauce, adorned with sage and thyme, medium rare, was rich and deeply satisfying, heightened by Maui onions. Each bite was a salute to the chef.

Day Two; Wellness, Art and Celestial Wonders

Experiencing this setting of good thoughts and well-being, I was eagerly looking forward to the spa, My morning was enjoyed at Hale, a Hawaiian-style thatched-roof hideaway tucked away in a lush garden with blooming flowers. The spa experience wasn’t just about the treatment, it was “immersing in nature,” allowing the scent of fresh orchids and the sound of rustling palms to melt away stress before the first touch even began. I booked a 60-minute custom massage customized to specific preferences, and developed it together with the therapist. My therapist, Liran, performed a masterpiece of bodywork that was completely tailored to my needs. he seemed to intuitively know every inch of tension and worked with an almost hypnotic precision. It was one of my best massages ever. I was then led to a private pool and steam area, directly outside the massage table, where, for 30 minutes, I floated in the warm water gazing at the towering palm trees. At that moment, I felt exactly like Belinda from White Lotus, completely pampered, taken care of, and enveloped in the kind of relaxation that erases every ounce of stress.

Lomi Lomi

I learned that one of the signature treatments here is Lomi Lomi, a traditional Hawaiian healing practice. More than a massage, it’s a “ritual of renewal” using rhythmic, wave-like strokes to align the body, mind and spirit. The thoughts behind this is rooted in Aloha ‘Ana, a deep respect for nature, balance, interconnectedness, and the aroma of sandalwood, macadamia and coconut oils, and other Hawaiian flowers. Lunch was a sensory delight by the infinity pool, where every dish was both decadent, and thoughtfully designed. I started with a bright and tropical Guava Spritz, along with a bowl of Furikake Popcorn, a Four Seasons Hawaii classic, a surprisingly addictive snack packed with umami, and the ko’ele burger, with a depth of flavor, designed with a combination of short rib and Wagyu, elevated with chive aioli and a pickled heirloom tomato. The poolside indulgences, felt perfectly placed within my day of relaxation, without overwhelming.

An immersive Art walk: Seeing with a Kilo Mindset

I recognized that Sensai Lana’i is more than a wellness retreat, it’s a living, breathing art experience too. Strolling through the manicured gardens, the soaring palm trees, like friendly guardians, casting shadows about. In Hawaiian culture, the concept of Kilo, is mindful observation and a way of seeing beyond the surface. I encountered some stunning sculptures that appeared as if they came from a museum of art, and allowed myself to slow down, absorb and reflect. I viewed seven Fernando Botero sculptures, that seemed to invite touch and contemplation. Botero, with an incredible sense of humor and observation, depicted people and figures in large, exaggerated volumes. During his lifetime Botero, a Colombian, was considered the most recognized and quoted artist in Latin America, his work seen in some of the finest museums. Also, there is a Jeff Koons sculpture at the resort’s entrance, titled Aphrodite, a modern, reflexive vision of classic beauty, and a striking welcome for guests.

Dinner with a View and a Night Among the Stars

I was in great need to experience The Break at Four Seasons Lana’i, at Manele Bay, the Four Seasons other Hawaiian resort. Dinner at The Break was an elegant affair featuring Ahi Nachos with a lingering sunset view; however, the highlight was a visit to the Lana’i Observatory, a rare treat for a resort, and a first for me. Beneath an expansive night sky untouched by city lights, I looked through a huge, 3.2-foot (1-meter) telescope at the Orion Nebula Jupiter, and a full moon, and wondered just how the Indigenous Hawaiians and people of the Pacific used the stars to guide their way on the immense ocean. It was a humbling and grounding experience, a reminder that while we focus so much on our personal wellness, we are still just specks in the vast universe.

Day Three: The Power of Mindset, Rewiring the Mind, and Culinary Passion

This lovely Wednesday morning concerned mental clarity, and how breath and heart rate variability shape our stress levels, and how to manage both with guided imagery. Mindset 1:1 with Biomarkers: This custom session measured my heart rate variability (HRV) and showed how my emotional state impacts my heart rhythm, respiration and nervous system. I left this session with focused breathwork and guided imagery techniques to better self-regulatemy nervous system. While the next session, “Freeing Yourself from Stories,” challenges old beliefs, for a greater sense of freedom, presenting a new lens on personal growth. I believe the thoughts and concepts are something you can take home with you and use in everyday life. I had arranged an important interview with Executive Chef Marlowe Joseph Lawenko, who is a talented and creative chef, with a journey from the Philippines to the pinnacle of Nobu’s empire, and a testament to dedication, craft, and passion. His culinary story begins with his family in the Philippines, and a love for Brunei, where his father cooked nightly and his mother baked. His love for food led him to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, and eventually to Nobu Tribeca, the first ever Nobu location, which I visited, and remember vividly, when I lived in Manhattan. For 16 years plus, Chef Marlowe climbed the ranks from line cook to Executive Chef, and is now overseeing Sensei by Nobu with a commitment to excellence and innovation. I said, “What is the most rewarding part of your job?” Smiling, without hesitation, he said, “Satisfying the guests and watching the staff evolve.”

On the final night, the multi-course Omakase dinner, where each dish is designed to ignite the body and senses, was again excellent, thanks to Chef Marlowe and his staff. The dinner was also brought to life through the brilliance of Nobu and their philosophy, of fresh seasonal ingredients, and a fitting crescendo to a memorable journey.

When You Go

Lana’i is Hawaii’s best kept secret, a destination where nature, luxury and serenity coexist effortlessly. The heart of Sensei Lana’i, A Four Seasons Resort is a deep respect for balance, nature, and tradition. Every experience, be it a wellness session, dining, or a simple moment of stillness, is designed to restore equilibrium, and though in 2012, Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, purchased 98% of the island for a reported $300 million, the Aloha spirit is stronger than ever, and Lana’i city remains non-touristy.

Mexico City: Central Hoteles & Balcón Del Zócalo

Trisha Ventker

Mexico City: Central Hoteles & Balcón Del Zócalo

Trisha Ventker

Central Hoteles and their highly regarded Balcon del Zocalo restaurant, overlooking Playa de la Constitution in the heart and soul of Mexico City’s evolving history, at first glance was simply overwhelming, a spine-tingling experience of antiquity spread out in front of me in a grand display of pride, nobility, and rectitude. Here is the center of government of both the nation and the capital, and an historic gathering place since Aztec times. The Zocalo, as the residents refer to the world’s second-largest square, is home to the Palacio Nacional, the seat of the government, while the hotel faces directly to the Gothic, Metropolitan Cathedral, 1573, the largest cathedral in Latin America, constructed on top of a former Aztec sacred temple, and the former Aztec city of Tenochtitlan. The cathedral, drawing inspiration from the Gothic Cathedrals in Spain, has one of the largest 18th-century organs in the Americas, and during its construction period, 1573-1813, an interpretation of various architectural styles took place, including Gothic, Baroque, Churrigueresque, and Neoclassical, as well as various era paintings, sculptures and furniture are found in the interior.

Zocalo Reflections

The scope of life in the Zócalo, the celebrations, cultural and religious events, the artists and musicians who have performed here, the vendors, and demonstrations, set thoughts soaring. The industrious residents, with love, lost and gain, and a lifetime of stories to be shared, have the passion of living, and survival. Thousands of people have trod on its stones, various languages soaring into the shifting clouds with 68 officially recognized indigenous languages, spoken by nearly seven million Mexicans, is both exciting and humbling, while experiencing a place that has seemly stood quietly throughout the ages. However, among a throng of essential Zocalo attractions, the stunning Palacio de Bellas Artes, 1904. is truly a palace. Distinguished as the “Art Cathedral of Mexico” and the cultural center of the city and country. The Palace has been the scene of some of the most notable events in music, dance, theater, opera and literature. While on the top floor is another bonus, the Museum of Architecture.

Central Hoteles

Arriving at the Central Hoteles, which fits perfectly within the history and bravura of Zocalo’s venue, is a restored, Neoclassical, award-winning, 300-year-old building with six floors, 105 guest rooms, and fine dining. Sharing the Mexico City experience with two friends, Lisa and Sanji, it was my first visit to the Capitol of Mexico, sitting at a lofty 7,200 feet altitude, and experiencing the sixth-largest metropolitan area in the world, the largest Spanish-speaking city in the world, and the oldest capital city in the Americas. I could instantly feel the energy and vitality in the hotel, and the busy Zocalo with people strolling, mariachis with trumpets spiraling, and agile guitarists playing with zest, as the Mexican flag is flying high. By means of the curiosity of travel, this is the place to be.

Central Hoteles & Balcón Del Zócalo AV. 5 DE MAYO 61

CENTRO HISTORICO, CDMX

Mexico City: Central Hoteles & Balcón Del Zócalo

Dining Mexico City

The city has long been recognized among the world’s prominent dining cities. A largely rural country with an abundance of fresh produce, and specialized regional cuisine, that even to a gourmand is awe-inspiring. Mexico’s hefty soup creations originating from the villages, using what was available, creating various tastes, have been widely copied. From what I’ve learned from traveling in Mexico, here is a short regional list. The flour tortilla burrito originated in Sonora, beef comes from northern Mexico, as do various cheeses, wines from northern Baja, while the Caesar Salad was invented in Tijuana. Grilled lobster calls Baja home, as does seafood cocktails, ceviche and Margaritas. Oaxaca is noted for tamales, empanadas, and seven varieties of mole. Sopa de Lima originated in the Yucatán, as did Conchinita Pibil from the Maya culture, and Raw Conch always marinated in tangy lime juice. Chiapas is noted for a spicy Chili dish, and Veracruz has a legendary menu selection of Huachinago, a baked whole fish covered in tomato sauce seasoned with olives, garlic, capers and spices. Puebla, the originator of mole, is noted for a succulent Poblano Puebla. However, Mexico City pulls it all together with a collection of creative and Michelin-honored chefs, working with the country’s spices, fresh produce, and innovative international flavors.

Dinner at Balcón del Zócalo

The restaurant is located on the hotel’s top floor with magnificent views and considered one of the foremost terraces overlooking the Zócalo. The dinner orchestrated by Chef Pepe Salinas, who studied at the CIS Culinary School in Lucerne, Switzerland, the Higher School of Gastronomy, and has also reinterpreted Mexican cuisine. An exhibitor at various Food and Wine Festivals, including France, Chef Pepehas been creating the gastronomic menus at Central Hoteles and Balcón del Zócalo for more than ten years. His theme, Hacer Mexico, made in Mexico, is addressed in his menus.

The sun was sitting low on the horizon at 8:15 p.m., and I could feel the thin air at this high altitude. Chef Pepe came to our table where I was enjoying an authentic margarita, and Lisa and Sanji, a Sotoi, which is a distilled spirit made from a plant commonly called Desert Spoon, which grows in the Chihuahuan Desert in northern Chihuahua and is known as the “State Spirit of Chihuahua.” He led us to the cellar and, smiling, said, “We feature seasonal ingredients, and a Tasting Menu where every season the menu is changed based on a theme, and we also have an artist, Diana Cárdenas who designs serveware and plates around the themes.” He proposed a toast, and for the first course he served Valor, a roasted pumpkin seed wafer, spread with Melipona bee honey, ants, nuts, and avocado truffle. A wonderful starter, a new taste, and delightful.

Back at the restaurant, Lalo, the jefe de sala brought us El Buffet, a platter of Nopal or baby cactus, dressed with Guajillo pepper harissa, tonnato totoaba sauce, garum powder and Tzatziki sauce, and a glass of Willamette, Oregon, Sokol Blosser. The Nopal was slightly tangy with a flavor similar to green beans, fiber rich, and excellent for your health, energy level, and divine. The third course was cider with gazpacho bone broth and watermelon; healthy, and high in fiber and nutrients. The fourth dish arriving, titled Menu Degustacion, was a veggie meat salad with Morelian Gazpacho, and savory and protein-laden, it’s low in saturated fats, essential nutrients, and was garden fresh. The fifth course was a lightly roasted peach garnished with Oaxaca mole, and created with a splendid flavor twist. Ruido De Sala, our sixth course, was pheasant dashed with roasted apple mole, asparagus marbre and green peas-pistachio roulade, a selection with multiple lingering aftertastes, and if I were a judge, it’s an award winner. The seventh Tasting Menu selection, named Remodelacion, a pork dish designed with Castacan black ceviche with slices of cucumbers and pickled onion foam. The sweet and pungent, El Poder Del Platos, an onion and pineapple tart, was followed by a mango-passion fruit sorbet smothered with amaranth, hazelnuts and chocolate tamal.

I must report that this was one of my most amazing dining experiences, and if this is an example of Mexico City dining, I see why the city is so highly rated.

The next day, we booked a private tour with Chill N’ Go Tours, who were dependable, professional and knowledgeable, and made us feel as if we were traveling with old friends. We visited the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mexico’s most visited religious site, a sacred place where every year millions of pilgrims honor the Virgin of Guadalupe. In our next issue in the fall, we’ll be covering how we visited the house of Frida Kahlo with the same tour company.

I have read that Mexico City is sinking in various locations, being built on a clay-based lake bed, but regardless, the city’s dining reputation is rising to the heavens.

When You Go

Central Hoteles, a Mexican-owned company, offers five-star hospitality with 24-hour service to guests. A small to midsize property, Mexico’s classic, hospitality and warmth are at the forefront of the hotel.

*chef Pepe’s drawing inspiration for tasting menu

HEALTH&BEAUTY

HEALTH&BEAUTY

Dana Davis:

A Journey of Strength and Advocacy

Did You Know?

1.6 Million Americans Live with Type 1 Diabetes–Yet There’s Hope

The Children’s Diabetes Foundation funds groundbreaking research, education, and care to improve the lives of children and adults living with type 1 diabetes at the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes (BDC).

The Barabara Davis Center is a world-renowned institution providing leading-edge treatement and research located in Colorado.

*45% of patients at the BDC are uninsured or underinsured.

*8,000+ patients are served at the Barbara Davis Center.

*35% of BDC patients are living at or below the poverty level.

Us in

Dana Davis: A Journey of Strength and Advocacy

Dana Davis’ journey with type 1 diabetes began at just seven years old. The daughter of Barbara and Marvin Davis, founders of the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes and the Children’s Diabetes Foundation, Dana was diagnosed at a time when the tools, treatments, and understanding of the disease were limited. There was no way to check blood sugar at home, only urine testing, and she was given one insulin injection each morning with the hope that she would make it safely through the day. Her diagnosis not only transformed her life, but it also galvanized her family’s mission to ensure that no one else would face type 1 diabetes without support, education, and hope.

Growing up with type 1 diabetes, Dana faced the daily challenges of managing a chronic condition—monitoring blood sugar, depending on insulin, and living with the unpredictable highs and lows that affect every part of life. But rather than letting her diagnosis define or limit her, she embraced it as a catalyst for change. Her personal experience gave her a profound connection to others living with the disease and an intimate understanding of what the type 1 diabetes community truly needs.

As an adult, Dana took on a leadership role within the Children’s Diabetes Foundation, carrying forward her parent’s legacy while also bringing her own voice and vision to the cause. As the foundation’s Executive Director, she has played an instrumental role in fundraising, outreach, and awareness campaigns, ensuring that vital research and patient care initiatives continue to advance. She has also been a fierce advocate for innovation by supporting groundbreaking research that aims to make life easier for those with type 1 diabetes and, one day, eliminate the disease altogether. This year marks a deeply meaningful milestone for her—her 50th diaversary, a celebration of the day she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The Barbara Davis Center will be celebrating over 450 patients living with type 1 for over 50 years!

Beyond her work with the foundation, Dana has been a source of inspiration for countless individuals and families. Her resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the type 1 diabetes community demonstrate the power of turning personal challenges into opportunities to create meaningful change.

Dana Davis’ story is one of perseverance, advocacy, and hope. Through her leadership and lived experience, she has helped shape the future of diabetes care and given voice, strength, and solidarity to the millions affected by type 1 diabetes. Her journey continues to shine as a beacon for a future free from the disease.

MUST

HAVES

MUST HAVES Spring Gift Ideas

CAMILLA

Camilla x White Lotus Mid-Length Board Shorts

The White Lotus x Camilla collaboration takes cues from the show’s locales—Hawaii, Sicily, and Thailand—creating a collection infused with tropical, Baroque, and jungle-inspired prints. Featuring standout pieces like caftans, dresses, and accessories, each design embodies the vibrant luxury, bold aesthetic, and captivating drama of these two iconic brands.

These Camilla board shorts are decorated in a mixed print. Cut for a mid-length silhouette, an elasticized drawstring waistband completes this piece.

Elasticized drawstring waistband

Back welt zip pocket

100% polyester

Dry clean

Imported

$275

saksfiftheavenue.com

FERRAGAMO Asymétrique

Ferragamo announces the launch of the Ferragamo Asymetrique watch, a striking example of elegance and modernity that redefines the concept of contemporary timepieces.

Envisioned by Creative Director Maximilian Davis, this new icon stands out with its daring and unexpected profiles, featuring an asymmetrical tank-shaped case that captures the essence of everyday sophistication.

Size: 22.4X36.71 mm

Movement: RONDA 762E.2-2 hands quartz

Case: IP Yellow Gold - Crown with red cabochon

Dial: White silver sunray with metal studs

Bracelet: Yellow Gold bracelet - Butterfly buckle with Ferragamo logo

Glass: Sapphire crystal, anti-reflection, scratch-resistant

WaterResistance: 30 meters

2+2 Year Warranty

Outer box, packaging, warranty and instruction booklet

$1,195-$3,495

MUST HAVES Spring Gift Ideas

EPICUTIS

Arctigenin Brightening Treatment

Epicutis® Arctigenin Brightening Treatment is a revolutionary alternative to Vitamin C, offering brighter, more even-toned skin without the instability or irritation Vitamin C is known for. Clinically proven and safe for all skin types and tones, it’s the first globally compliant, clean brightening formulation that effectively targets dark spots, uneven texture, and discoloration. This game-changing innovation delivers visible results while being gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin—making it a must-have for anyone seeking a radiant, resilient glow.

As the only EWG-verified professional skincare line, Epicutis meets the highest standards of ingredient safety and efficacy. Epicutis stands apart in the skincare industry by prioritizing skin health with minimalist yet highly effective formulations, driven by 20 years of biotechnology and clinical research.

PEACHSKINSHEETS

This spring, say goodbye to dull neutrals and hello to bold, beautiful colors! As we welcome longer days and fresh starts, it’s time to update your bedroom with hues that will energize you.

PeachSkinSheets’ vibrant, fade-resistant colors bring a colorful touch to any space, all without the hassle or high maintenance. Whether you’re drawn to the tropical hues of the Caribbean Collection or prefer soft, airy pastels, with 34 colors to choose from you are sure to find your perfect match!

Unlike other bedding, PeachSkinSheets stay as vibrant and smooth as the day you bought them, no fading or pilling. Wash after wash, your sheets will keep their rich color and ultra-soft feel, making them a smart long-term investment in both style and comfort.

starting at $40

peachskinsheets.com

MUST HAVES Spring Gift Ideas

DEFENAGE

12-Factor Revitalizing Lip Enhancer

Step into the future of lip care with DefenAge’s Lip Enhancer, the breakthrough serum that rejuvenates lips from within. Powered by DefenAge’s exclusive Age-Repair Defensins®, this advanced lip treatment not only provides immediate comfort but delivers long-term benefits, including fuller, smoother, and more youthful lips.

Unlike typical lip plumpers that offer temporary results, this formula stimulates your skin’s natural renewal process, improving lip volume, texture, and firmness over time.

Clinically tested and dermatologist-approved, this lip enhancer shields lips from environmental stress, smooths “lipstick wrinkles,” and supports a healthier, more vibrant appearance. $72 defenage.com

CAMILLA

The White Lotus x Camilla collaboration takes cues from the show’s locales—Hawaii, Sicily, and Thailand—creating a collection infused with tropical, Baroque, and jungle-inspired prints.

Featuring standout pieces like caftans, dresses, and accessories, each design embodies the vibrant luxury, bold aesthetic, and captivating drama of these two iconic brands.

Crafted of silk, this maxi-length caftan showcases a sharp V-neck framed by draped kimono-inspired sleeves.

$995 saksfifthavenue.com

Camilla x White Lotus Maxi Caftan

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 Fri 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 Sunday 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

The Corner Office, located in downtown Denver, opened in 2008 by restaurateur Peter Karpinski of Sage Restaurant Group. The Corner 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

B

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

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).

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 $60 - 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

Pancho & Jane

Pancho & Jane, the new Golden taco spot, has launched its weekend brunch service featuring brand-new menu items. Served from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, the menu features creative dishes including chilaquiles, suadero hash and hot chicken & churros; as well as brunch staples with a twist, including avocado toast, a breakfast burrito, a yogurt bowl and a specialty taco. Enjoy brunch beverages such as abuela’s coffee, mimosas and a coconut-infused Bloody Mary mixed with tequila, alongside weekly live music.

panchoandjane.com

16500 S. Golden Road (suite 101), Golden, CO 80401 (303) 226-1418

Brunch Sat - Sun 10:00 am - 3:00 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.

urbanfarmersteakhouse.com

1659 Wazee St, Denver CO 80202 (303) 262-6070

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

- Fri 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

- 5pm

D

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