Restaurants

Overall EC

Winner: Sugarbeet

Sugarbeet is so damn good, we consider it the quintessential perfect restaurant. Billed as Modern American cuisine, every meal we’ve had there has been a ten. The service makes you feel like the only customer in the room, and the setting is cozy, intimate, and quietly exceptional.

Runner Up: Piripi

Overall Bldr

Winner: Salt

The culinary team here works under a three-pronged mantra: healthy, delicious, and sustainable. And they do that in an amazing location built in 1898 in downtown Boulder, filled with an electrical ambiance. After a great meal, you’ll walk out into the night and realize how lucky you were to be there.

Runner Up: Boulder Cork

Contemporary EC

Winner: 24 Carrot

Seasonal, innovative, and a touch of quirky. Repeat winner 24 Carrot embodies contemporary, fresh farm-to-table cuisine into crave-worthy dishes and clever cocktails, all served in a historic building that feels part speakeasy, part cozy neighborhood bistro.

Runner Up: Hickory & Ash

Contemporary B

Winner: Oak on 14th

Seasonal, innovative, and a touch of quirky. Repeat winner 24 Carrot embodies contemporary, fresh farm-to-table cuisine into crave-worthy dishes and clever cocktails, all served in a historic building that feels part speakeasy, part cozy neighborhood bistro.

Runner Up: River & Woods

Newcommer EC

Winner: Longmonter

Comfort food with purpose wins hearts fast. The Longmonter burst onto Main Street with crave-worthy mac and cheese, gourmet nostalgia, and playful charm, then added board games and seating, encouraging locals to linger after the last bite.

Runner Up: Red Cedar

Newcommer B

Winner: Cozobi Fonda Fina

Cozobi Fonda Fina feels like a place that’s just always been here. Everything about it (menu, service, decor, and especially the dishes) are polished, professional, and pack a flavor-filled punch. If they are this good already, other restaurants better step up their game.

Runner Up: Stella’s Cucina

Cheap Eats EC

Winner: Marco’s Hot Dogs & Tacos

Marco’s serves bacon-wrapped hot dogs piled like a ballpark feast and street-style tacos that hit every craving. Locals line up like it’s opening day because when the flavor’s this good, everyone wants a seat.

Runner Up: Eats and Sweets

Cheap Eats B

Winner: Cosmo’s Pizza

Cosmo’s Pizza started as a funky pizzeria on the Hill in Boulder known for its oversized slices and calzones. Since its beginnings in 2001, it has grown to six locations across Boulder, Denver, Lafayette, and Fort Collins. Known for late-night hours and New York–style pies, locals keep coming back for a cheap, satisfying bite.

Runner Up: Village Coffee Shop

Bread EC & B

Winner: Moxie Bread Co

Is it the crunch of the crust or the soft inside bursting with flavor? Maybe it’s their use of heirloom grains and fresh, unprocessed ingredients. It could be the stunning, southwestern-infused locale with a staff that couldn’t be more authentic. The real reason people come to Moxie is probably a little of it all.

Runner Up Bread EC: Babette’s

Runner Up Bread B: Dry Storage

Bakery EC

Winner: Button Rock Bakery

Button Rock Bakery is where you take your sweet tooth on a date. A repeat Best of the West winner, it’s famous for show-stopping cakes, playful details, and pastries so good they turn an ordinary day into a celebration.

Runner Up: Babette’s/Stacy’s Kitchen

Bakery B

Winner: Boulder Baked

You’ve had a chocolate chip cookie before, but you’ve never had one like this. The sweet treats offered by the culinary artisans here are of the “back in line” variety because as soon as you have one, you’ll be heading back in line for more.

Runner Up: Spruce Confections

Bagel EC & B

Winner: Moe’s Broadway Bagel

Moe’s Broadway Bagel doesn’t just win Best of the West, it owns it. Twenty years on, locals skip the debate and know the routine: chewy bagels, quick orders, and the quiet confidence of a place that never has to try too hard.

Runner Up: Big Daddy Bagels

BBQ EC

Winner: C’s BBQ

C’s BBQ isn’t just food, it’s a smoky spectacle. Tender ribs, brisket, and punchy house rubs turn Lafayette weekends into a pop-up block party your taste buds will RSVP to. Party deets: with Cherry’s Cheesecakes on Saturdays at the Lumberyards at Lafayette.

Runner Up: Wayne’s Smoke Shack

BBQ B

Winner: Big Daddy Food Truck

Big Daddy’s Texas BBQ has become Boulder’s go-to food truck for slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, and Southern sides served with big portions and big flavor. With loyal followers who line up before it sells out and a vibe that feels more neighborhood pit stop than roadside stand, it’s BBQ done Boulder-style.

Runner Up: KT’s BBQ

Breakfast EC

Winner: Morning Glory

Morning Glory Café proves breakfast deserves applause. Legendary fried rice bowls, blueberry pancakes, and scratch-made goodness from local farms turn sleepy mornings into flavor-packed performances you’ll happily line up for.

Runner Up: Tangerine

Breakfast B

Winner: Tangerine

Remember the excitement of sliding into the kitchen and sitting down for breakfast when you were seven? There was an anticipation you wouldn’t have for any other meal. The adult-equivalent of that is heading into Tangerine for breakfast. Eggs, pancakes, bacon, beans — you’re about to be seven all over again.

Runner Up: Village Coffee Shop

Breakfast Burrito EC

Winner: Santiago’s

If you say you like breakfast burritos but you’ve never had one from Santiago’s, then you might not know what you’re talking about. That’s because their fresh, made from scratch burritos can redefine your morning. It’s why they’ve been named “Best of the West” for 25 years.

Runner Up: Santa Fe 2.0

Breakfast Burrito B

Winner: Santiago’s

It’s no wonder Santiago’s has swept this category every year. At just around $4 for the daily special, Santiago’s breakfast burritos are a morning fiesta: eggs, potatoes, award-winning green chile, a daily rotating meat, and gobs of cheese. Locals grab one… then five more to stock the fridge.

Runner Up: Blackbelly

Brunch EC

Winner: 24 Carrot

With so many choices for brunch, listen to the locals on this repeat multi-category winner. 24 Carrot turns brunch into a full-on celebration. Sweet potato benedicts, melt-in-your-mouth brisket hash, lemon-curd beignets, and cocktails that sparkle make every bite, sip, and moment feel like a sunny, flavor-packed party.

Runner Up: Morning Glory

Brunch B

Winner: Jill’s Restaurant & Bistro

Brunch is a bit of a magical meal and there’s really no one who does it any better. A good brunch offering hits the right harmony between griddle and grill. Jill’s offers a taste balance to give you a delightful and delicious start to the day or a mid-day meal surge.

Runner Up: Greenbriar Inn

Burger EC

Winner: Longs Peak Pub

Longs Peak Pub is a Boulder County original: no loud TVs, no frills, just legendary burgers, cold beer, and a bar where strangers become regulars. It’s old-school, no-nonsense, and exactly why locals keep coming back.

Runner Up: 99 Saloon

Burger B

Winner: The Sink

There’s a reason The Sink on the Hill is celebrating more than a century as a Boulder icon. Beyond the stories of Robert Redford, Anthony Bourdain, and Obama passing through, they put as much care into how they operate as what they serve. One hundred percent solar powered, composting, and paying fair wages only complement the legendary grass-fed burgers they’ve been serving for generations.

Runner Up: Mountain Sun

Greek EC & B

Winner: Kalita Grill

After becoming a favorite in Boulder, Kalita Grill expanded into Lafayette, where it was quickly embraced. Owner Armen Madoyan personally selects every ingredient, along with a thoughtfully curated wine selection. From hand-rolled dolma to house-made dishes, the food feels intentional, generous, and deeply personal.

Runner Up Greek EC: Pita Grill

Runner Up Greek B: Falafel King

Chinese EC

Winner: China Gourmet (Longmont)

China Gourmet is Longmont comfort food royalty. Massive menus, generous portions, and classic American Chinese favorites keep locals loyal. And those perfectly packed takeout boxes? Like little edible treasures you’ll fight over in the car.

Runner Up: Colorado Dumplings

Chinese B

Winner: Zoe Ma Ma

They don’t just have the best restaurant name in Boulder, Zoe Ma Ma also has an amazing “Oh maybe I want that” menu. From the braised beef soup noodle to their popular potstickers to the CPR dish, every menu item will make you reconsider your order because the next item on the list looks so good.

Runner Up: Ginger Pig

Coffee House EC

Winner: East Simpson Coffee Shop

East Simpson Coffee House is Lafayette’s living room. Coffee flows, pastries vanish, and strangers suddenly turn into your brunch BFFs. It’s the kind of place where lingering feels mandatory and deliciously justified.

Runner Up: Fox.Dog / Meco’s

Coffee House B

Winner: Boxcar Coffee

It’s not so much a coffee shop as it is a hub of the community. A place where people stop in the mornings so they can start their day with an authentic smile or run in to recharge in the middle of a chaotic Tuesday afternoon. And the fresh roasted coffee can’t be beat.

Runner Up: January Coffee

Gluten-Free EC

Winner: Morning Glory

Morning Glory Café proves gluten-free can be anything but boring. From hearty breakfast hashes to indulgent blueberry pancakes, celiac diners (and everyone else) eat worry-free, enjoying scratch-made dishes that feel like a treat, not a compromise.

Runner Up: TeoCali

Gluten-Free B

Winner: Zeal

Imagine you get to hang out in the kitchen of the coolest people you know, who just happen to be amazing cooks. Their locally-sourced, health-conscious, gluten-free meal options are crafted with inspiring flavors in a Boulder-centric style.

Runner Up: Sweet Sisters Bakery

Dessert EC

Winner: Button Rock Bakery

Button Rock Bakery turns dessert into a deliciously binding contract. Lavish cakes, outrageous pastries, and sweet creations so tempting make “just a bite” a hilarious lie and you’ll happily sign on for seconds, thirds, and then some.

Runner Up: Cherry’s Cheesecakes

Dessert B

Winner: Frasca

It’s not just locals who recognize how special the desserts at Frasca are, the restaurant has received multiple national awards. It’s not a “let’s go there tonight” stop, it’s a full experience that must be planned out, and when you do get there, the dessert will exceed your expectations.

Runner Up: Blackbelly

Colorado-Based Chain EC

Winner: Snarf’s Sandwiches

Since 1996, Snarf’s has grown from one Boulder shop to nearly 50 locations. Its oven-toasted sandwiches inspire serious loyalty like the sailor who landed at DIA, saw the logo, and made his ride wait, because Snarf’s comes first.

Runner Up: Santiago’s

Colorado-Based Chain B

Winner: Illegal Pete’s

When you have friends in from out of town and you want them to experience the vibe and people of Boulder, this is where you take them. And when they come back to town you bring them here again. And again because they have 90 million burrito combinations.

Runner Up: Snooze an AM Eatery

Green Chile EC

Winner: Santiago’s

Santiago’s green chile is the stuff of local legend: smoky, spicy, and unstoppable. Spoon it on breakfast burritos, fries, or straight from the bowl. Locals swear by it, and it’s been winning hearts and awards for over 25 years.

Runner Up: La Mariposa

Green Chile B

Winner: Efrain’s Boulder

This is a great place to get a great scratch-made meal and connect with neighbors. Running into a new friend here, you’ll want to see how they have been, but most of the conversation will settle around the green chiles, which is understandable.

Runner Up: Santo

Indian EC

Winner: Taj Mahal 3

For more than two decades, Taj Mahal 3 has been Louisville’s go-to for a proper Indian lunch buffet and reliably bold dinner plates. Family-owned and steady as ever, it’s where regulars load up on saag, tandoori, and biryani, dialing the heat exactly how they like it.

Runner Up: Flavor of India

Indian B

Winner: Jaipur

Jaipur is unique. With chefs earning world-class recognition and a late-night menu serving curry, masala, and naan until 3 a.m. They specialize in catering for any kind of event and offer a dining experience that earned this year’s Top Nod of Excellence. They are currently moving locations, but you can always stop at their sister restaurant, Taj Mahal 3 in Louisville.

Runner Up: Tiffins

Italian EC

Winner: Parma Trattoria

Parma is where handcrafted pasta twirls, wood-fired pizzas bubble, and sauces taste like your Nonna stayed up all night. It’s cozy, soulful, and so good you’ll consider skipping dinner tomorrow so you can enjoy seconds tonight.

Runner Up: Gondolier Italian Eatery

Italian B

Winner: Bacco Trattoria & Mozarella Bara

This place is more than its mozzarella bar (although, that’s pretty good too). Bacco Trattoria is a notable authentic Italian restaurant that is worth the trip across town to North Boulder. Come for the mozzarella bar and stay for the fresh herb butter, and the bolognese, and the lasagna, and the wine selection…

Runner Up: Pasta Jay’s

Mexican EC

Winner: TeoCalli

Teocalli Cocina makes you rethink tacos. Locals line up for carne asada that’s basically addictive; tempura-fried avocado; and salsas that hit all the right notes. It’s proof that fresh, bold Mexican cuisine always steals the show.

Runner Up: La Mariposa

Mexican B

Winner: Efrain’s Mexican of Boulder

A Boulder institution since 1998, Efrain’s is rooted in founder Efrain Gomez’s family recipes and bold Northern Chihuahua–style cuisine. After years in its original, funky space, the move into a modern dining room proved something rare: when the food is already perfect, the only thing to improve is the room it’s served in.

Runner Up: Santo’s

Patio EC

Winner: Stem Cider at Acreage

If Colorado had a backyard, it would be Acreage by Stem Ciders. Mountain views, sprawling lawns, kid-friendly wandering space, and house-made cider set the scene for family hangs that start with lunch and stretch through the golden hour.

Runner Up: Pumphouse

Patio B

Winner: Chautauqua Dining Hall

Since 1898, the Chautauqua has been a landmark favorite in Boulder County. The Dining Hall is managed by Three Leaf Catering, known for using ingredients from their own farm. You can get a full view of the Flatirons from the wraparound porch making it a perfect spot to have lunch or dinner after a hike on the local trails.

Runner Up: Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse

Lunch EC

Winner: Stacy’s Kitchen

In just a couple of years, Stacy’s Kitchen has become beloved in Old Town Erie. Owner Stacy Gustafson opened the shop on her birthday in 2023, bringing hearty made-to-order sandwiches, fresh baked pies, and sweet treats rooted in lifelong love of food. Simple, affordable, and welcoming, it’s become the place locals go again and again.

Runner Up: Jeannot Patisserie

Lunch B

Winner: Avanti Food Hall

It’s one part European market and one part food truck park with seven rotating restaurants that specialize in food from around the world. It’s certainly no surprise that so many people call this their favorite. For the cherry on top, Avanti’s rooftop captures a picturesque view of the Flatirons.

Runner Up: Boulder Social

Sandwich EC & B

Winner: Snarf’s Sandwiches

Snarf’s Sandwiches reigns supreme, a consistent Best of the West winner since we began 25 years ago. Founder Jimmy Seidel remains the sole proprietor, building each shop with his own hands and his own money, even when funds were scarce. That dedication to the perfect sandwich has grown Snarf’s from a single Boulder shop into a multi-state favorite.

Runner Up Sandwich EC: Stacy’s Kitchen

Runner Up Sandwich B: Le Frigio

Seafood EC

Winner: Big Mac & Little Lu’s

Big Mac & Little Lu’s makes landlocked seafood dreams come true. With wild-caught fish, buttery lobster rolls, fresh oysters, and crave-worthy bisque, this spot delivers salty-air flavor without the airfare.

Runner Up Sandwich EC: 740 Front St.

Seafood B

Winner: Jax Fishhouse

Jax doesn’t care that Colorado is a land-locked state. They make sure that we get a taste of their famous crackjack oysters that’s only found on their menu. Since 1999, Jax Fish House has been prioritizing finding sustainable, responsibly sourced seafood in an effort to protect our oceans and bring the coast to the coast-less. Whether it’s the cioppino on Sundays, grilled swordfish, or gochujang cauliflower, Boulder’s top seafood house will satisfy you.

Runner Up: Spruce Farm & Fish

Pizza EC

Winner: Urban Field Pizza

Urban Field Pizza made a name for itself fast. In just a few years, the Longmont spot earned national recognition at the International Pizza Expo. With fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a willingness to push creative boundaries, it’s become a destination for pizza lovers and market wanderers alike.

Runner Up: Rosalee’s Pizzeria

Pizza B

Winner: The Sink

Buckle up. Thick ‘ugly crust’ on a Sinkza is essential to that Old Boulder dinner classic. The Sink on The Hill has been serving CU Boulder students for over 100 years, evident by the low ceilings signed by generations of alumni. Get a chance to sign it yourself on Pizza Tuesdays!

Runner Up: Cosmo’s Pizza

Steak EC

Winner: 740 Front St.

Steak at 740 Front is part of downtown Louisville’s rhythm. Housed in a restored 1904 saloon, it’s where locals go when they want a proper steak, a stiff drink, and a room that still feels rooted in the town’s past. Reliable, unfussy, and exactly what the night calls for.

Runner Up: Piripi

Steak B

Winner: Boulder Cork

As one of Boulder’s oldest restaurants and a repeat winner that can’t be toppled, Boulder Cork is an essential must-visit. Since 1969, the Cork has been serving a rotating menu that ranges from prime rib to their famous mud pie combined with a showcase of local art on brick walls that create an unforgettable experience.

Runner Up: Steakhouse 316

Sushi/Japanese EC

Winner: Sakura

A longtime Best of the West favorite, Sakura Japanese Restaurant has earned its reputation through consistency and craft. Rather than retire, the original owners passed the restaurant to their nephew, trained for years under master sushi chef Kho. From traditional sushi to tatami-style seating where shoes come off, Sakura remains as authentically Japanese as it gets.

Runner Up: Sumo Sushi

Sushi/Japanese B

Winner: Hapa Sushi

From Booty Call Rolls to Magic Mushrooms, Hapa Sushi will be sure to amaze you in their visual design and creative Japanese-Hawaiian cuisine. With DJ sets on the weekend, a full bar, and every day early bird happy hour, Hapa’s expanding menu and social energy produce a must-see location. 

Runner Up: Japango

Thai EC & B

Winner: Busaba

Busaba’s original Louisville location set the standard long before expansion. Bright curries, craveable noodles, and heat levels that actually mean something have built a fiercely loyal following. Scratch-made, vibrant, and unapologetically bold, it’s Thai food locals return to again and again, and a repeat Best Thai favorite since opening.

Runner Up Thai EC: Mana Thai

Runner Up Thai B: Aloy Thai

Vietnamese EC

Winner: Pho Cafe

Pho Café turns Vietnamese classics into a local legend. Rich broth, tender noodles, and banh mi that practically wink at you make every visit feel like a tasty little secret you’re thrilled to spill.

Runner Up: Saigon District One

Vietnamese B

Winner: Chez Thuy

This modest, unexpected, standalone restaurant on 28th is not just Vietnamese, but Thuy cuisine. Drawing locals and regulars alike, this place reveals a history lesson in its menu that combines passion with authenticity. The pho is hot, the Vietnamese coleslaw is tart, and Chez Thuy is expecting you there. 

Runner Up: Lotus Moon

Hot Dog EC

Winner: Marco’s Hot Dogs & Tacos

This is one of our favorite stops, and every new staff member gets taken to Marco’s Hot Dogs & Tacos. When the craving hits for Mexican hot dogs wrapped in bacon and topped with beans, mayonnaise, and whatever other goodies you want, we’ll drive across town. It’s a brick taco stand with outdoor seating, and once you’ve had the dogs, the long line makes perfect sense.

Runner Up: Costco

Hot Dog B

Winner: Mustard’s Last Stand

Mustard’s Last Stand is the last hot dog you’ll ever want. This place has been voted the best hot dogs in Denver and is in the Vienna Beef Hall of Fame because of their traditional Chicago-style dog that’s been bringing people to the back for over 45 years. Don’t forget the mustard on the classic! 

Runner Up: Freddie’s Hot Dog Stand

Taco EC

Winner: Taco’s Ay Ay Ay

Tacos Ay Ay Ay lives up to the drama in its name. Overflowing fillings, bold flavors, and a dash of Lafayette magic make every bite a tiny fiesta locals never want to end.

Runner Up: Teocali

Taco B

Winner: T/ACO

T/aco starts their mornings by milling their own corn so that it’s ready for the street tacos that night. Known for their surging hospitality, the staff go above and beyond to make sure every experience meets their high expectations. And if you’re lucky, you’ll find their rotating secret menu too.

Runner Up: McDevitt Taco Supply

Healthy Meal EC

Winner: Morning Glory

Being healthy at Morning Glory Café doesn’t mean sacrifice. Colorful bowls, inventive dishes, and fresh local ingredients make “good for you” taste downright irresistible.

Runner Up: Moxie Bread Co

Healthy Meal B

Winner: Zeal

There is a story in every dish, and Zeal tells a tale of how healthy and good come together.. Their philosophy is sustainable and clean food that actually is kind to you and the planet. No matter if you’re vegetarian, vegan, keto, or just a regular meat-lover, Zeal will have an option for you. 

Runner Up: Leaf

Chef EC

Winner: Hugo Meyer / Piripi

Chef Hugo Meyer doesn’t just run a kitchen, he choreographs it. Globetrotting experience, fearless flavor instincts, and a dash of mischief make Piripi the kind of restaurant you tell everyone about before dessert even arrives.

Runner Up: Sean Gafner / Roose, Jefes, 99 Saloon, Swaylos

Chef B

Winner: Hosea Rosenburg / Blackbelly

Starting with a food truck, a farm, and a catering business, Hosea Rosenberg evolved his aspirations into the Michelin Guide Green Star restaurant: Blackbelly. From New Mexico to CU Boulder to winning season five of Top Chef, Rosenberg opened his own restaurant and, recently, his own butcher shop in order to perfect cured meats. 

Runner Up: Bradford Heap / Salt

Chocolatier EC

Winner: Chocolaterie Stam

Chocolaterie Stam is Lafayette’s sweetest troublemaker. Bonbons, truffles, and hot chocolate so good it should come with a warning turns casual indulgence into a full-blown chocolate obsession.

Runner Up: Robin’s Chocolates

Chocolatier B

Winner: Piece, Love & Chocolate

This is the place you go if you have that craving. Chocolate, tiramisu, brownies, tarts, truffles…this boutique has just about everything. You can even take classes to get a peak into what goes on behind the curtain. 

Runner Up: Lift Chocolates

Drinks

Overall Bar EC

Winner: Erie Social Club

No longer a newcomer, Erie Social Club has become a fixture in town over the past five years. The interior sets the tone, with craft cocktails designed by in-house mixologists and a wine selection carefully curated by owner Nick. It’s a bar that feels intentional in every detail and it shows in the wins.

Runner Up: West Side Tavern

Overall Bar B

Winner: Bitter Bar

The staff’s welcome into this lamp-lit neighborhood nook is just as warm as the lighting feels. They offer your usuals along with unique inventions like “Strawberry Feels Forever.” The Beatle’s-themed cocktail features strawberry boba – the FIRST cocktail with boba we’ve seen – which only adds to the delight of this Boulder staple.

Runner Up: Velvet Elk Lounge

Brewery EC

Winner: Left Hand Brewery

Though it may have started with just Eric Wallace and a homebrew kit in Longmont, Left Hand Brewery has since swept the nation with their iconic nitros. While Left Hand is leaving their handprint across the country, they’re committed to shrinking their footprint, by investing in the most up-to-date energy and water conservation methods. 

Runner Up: Liquid Mechanics

Brewery B

Winner: Avery Brewing

In their list of 2025’s successes, along with being named World Beer Cup Gold Medalist, were the 5,000+ dogs they petted that year. Turns out, these pet enthusiasts are also pretty big nerds for the brewing process, offering tours to teach the public about the science of yeast and to show off their barrel-aging and burgeoning pilot programs. 

Runner Up: Mountain Sun

Bloody Mary EC & B

Winner: Lucile’s Creole Cafe

In a world of sweet breakfasts, Lucile’s dares to be savory. The Creole tradition of using your seafood dinner from the night before for breakfast lives on in dishes like the eggs pontchartrain – a fried trout adorned with poached eggs and sauce bernaise and is perfectly accompanied by their award-winning Bloody Mary (plus a beignet for your sweet tooth).

Runner Up EC: The Post

Runner Up B: The Buff

Happy Hour EC

Winner: Erie Social Club

Erie Social Club actually puts the happy into happy hour. In a space that’s swanky but approachable, hand-crafted cocktails and a curated wine selection come at happy hour prices. It’s become the kind of place locals plan their afternoons around, not something they squeeze in on the way home.

Runner Up: Walter Rhoades American Legion Post 111

Happy Hour B

Winner: The Dark Horse

The Dark Horse is pure Boulder lore. Toys cover the walls, beer flows freely, and owner Scott McCormick’s irreverent spirit still defines the room. CU watch parties and Pony Games are just part of the chaos. With redevelopment looming, locals are savoring every happy hour, hoping this icon isn’t done winning just yet.

Runner Up: Boulder Cork

Margarita EC

Winner: La Mariposa

The people of Longmont love the extensive options on their menu. They’ve got margarita inventions for every occasion,  “The Love a Rita” for Valentines Day, “Spicy Mezcalita” for Dio de los Muertos, and “Booze for Boobies,” a bright pink special that donates $3 with every order during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. 

Runner Up: Teocalli Cocina

Margarita B

Winner: Efrain’s Mexican of Boulder

When you’ve got it, flaunt it, and that’s exactly what Efrain’s does with their titular “Boulder’s Best Margarita.” And if margaritas aren’t your speed, they’ve got green chili queso so good you can drink it with a straw. This family-owned Boulder landmark recently achieved board game status after being added to the Boulder Edition Monopoly. 

Runner Up: Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant

Distillery EC

Dry Land Distillery

The glimmer of their custom-fabricated copper pot stills will draw you in from Longmont’s main drag, but their smokey Cactus spirits and warm atmosphere will keep you coming back for more. Dry Land Distillery’s cocktail program is a love letter to locally sourced ingredients, and the rugged Colorado landscape that makes it possible.

Runner-Up: Spirit Hounds

Distillery B

Vapor Distillery / Boulder Spirits Tasting Room

Boulder Spirits balances craft and presence. From their Longmont distillery, where everything is made on site, to their newer Pearl Street tasting room, the operation reflects a deep commitment to whiskey done right. Founded by Scottish-born Alastair Brogan, their single malts and bourbons honor tradition while firmly earning Boulder’s respect.

Runner-Up: Spirit Hounds

Bartender/Mixologist EC

24 Carrot Bistro – Jennifer Shillington & DJ

At 24 Carrot, the bar is as much a draw as the kitchen. Beverage Director Jennifer Shillington and bartender DJ Reimer have helped make the bistro an Erie icon, crafting cocktails that are thoughtful, seasonal, and perfectly matched to the menu. It’s a drinks program locals trust as much as the food, and what makes them a repeat winning duo.

Runner-Up: West Side Tavern

Bartender/Mixologist B

Bitter Bar

Since opening on Walnut Street in 2011, The Bitter Bar has carved out a Boulder cocktail cult with drinks made with passion, not pretense. Owner-operator James Lee built his following with precise classics and inventive concoctions, eventually buying the bar outright and keeping conversation and craftsmanship at the center of every pour.

Runner-Up: Jungle

Liquor Store EC

Wyatt’s Wet Goods

Italian wine? They’ve got it. French wine? Yep. California and everywhere in between. Wyatt’s Wet Goods stands out for its massive, thoughtfully organized selection of wine, whiskey, and just about anything else for your libatious delights. Curious and need help? The staff is as friendly as they are knowledgeable.

Runner-Up: Atlas Valley Purveyors

Liquor Store B

Hazel’s

Hazel’s feels like Boulder’s social hub for beverage lovers. With massive wine, beer, and spirits selections, friendly staff who actually geek out over your picks, and a vibe that turns shopping into a little adventure, it’s the place locals swing by on the way to dinner, a night in, or just because.

Runner-Up: Pettyjohn’s

Wine Shop EC

Atlas Valley Purveyors

Atlas Valley Purveyors makes wine shopping feel like a choose-your-own-adventure. Thoughtfully curated bottles, surprise gems, and staff who actually get your taste turn “just grabbing a bottle” into a very happy detour.

Runner-Up: Public Wine

Wine Shop B

Boulder Wine Merchant

Boulder Wine Merchant is the kind of place where a quick stop turns into a long, happy conversation. Smart curation, wildly knowledgeable staff, and bottles you won’t find everywhere make this a true Boulder original locals trust and love.

Runner-Up: West End Wine Shop

Winery EC

Taboche Winery

Taboche Winery keeps things refreshingly uncomplicated. Thoughtfully made wines, relaxed tastings, and a welcoming space let the bottles speak for themselves. As a newer presence in the local wine scene, Taboche has quickly built a following by focusing on what’s in the glass and letting people come back on their own terms.

Runner-Up: Snowy Peaks Winery

Winery B

BookCliff Vineyards

BookCliff Vineyards makes wine for people who actually want to talk about what’s in their glass. Bold choices, thoughtful craftsmanship, and bottles with something to say keep Boulder drinkers coming back for another opinionated pour.

Runner-Up: Vinnie Fera Winery

Entertainment

Fair or Festival EC

Lafayette Peach Festival

When the Lafayette Art and Antique Fair incorporated peach sales into its schedule, a new festival spun off. Since then, the organic Palisade orchards have transported thousands upon thousands of pounds of peaches to Lafayette. 2026 marks the 27th annual festival.

Runner-Up: Boulder County Fair

Fair or Festival B

Boulder Pride

Boulder Pride is equal parts celebration, visibility, and unapologetic joy. Thousands gather downtown for a day fueled by queer community, chosen family, live music, food trucks, and nearly 200 vendors all wrapped in color, resistance, and pride. It’s loud, loving, and unmistakably Boulder, and when it returns in 2026, you’ll want to be right in the middle of it.

Runner-Up: Boulder Creek Festival

Live Music Venue EC

Bricks on Main

When Bricks on Main opened in 2020, its flexible retail store accommodated locally-sourced retailers and their products in inconsistent market conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, it’s expanded into a multi-purpose venue, with frequent community music events and a full menu and bar. This first-time winner has left a lasting impression on the community.

Runner-Up: Muse Performing Center

Live Music Venue B

Chautauqua

Arrive in this scenic park in the warmer months and you can catch music events in the historic Chautauqua Auditorium, built in 1898 as a lofty and open venue. Arrive in the colder months, and you can enjoy more intimate shows in the park’s 1918 Community House. This repeat winner has something for everyone.

Runner-Up: Boulder Theatre

Gallery EC

Firehouse Art Center

One of the classes offered here is “Art of Possibility,” which is really a perfect way to describe what they bring to the community. They don’t just open our eyes to new artists, they make it possible for us to explore our own artistic nature.

Runner-Up: The Collective Community Arts Center

Gallery B

BMOCA

This repeat winner has been honoring the most significant contemporary art from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Mexico, among other places, since its founding in 1972. Located in a historic building next to Dushanbe Tea House, this dynamic venue brings the regional, national, and international art scene to Boulder.

Runner-Up: Art + Soul Gallery

This article previously misstated the location of BMoCA as on Pearl Street. It has been updated to reflect the correct location.

Museum EC

Longmont Museum

What better way to learn about local history and culture as a family than through programs, exhibits, performances, films, and activities for all ages in a dynamic building housing sprawling historical collections? That’s the kind of educational experience Longmont Museum has to offer.

Runner-Up: Louisville History Museum

Museum B

Museum of Boulder

The history of Boulder has come a long way since the organization of the Boulder Historical Society in 1944. The Museum of Boulder, developed by the society in 1945, reflects on the city’s roots by recognizing the diverse history of its community and starting conversations to lead the community forward.

Runner-Up: University of Colorado Museum of Natural History

Theater Company EC

Longmont Theatre Company

Housed in one of Main Street’s most elegant historic venues, Longmont Theatre Company has been part of the community since 1957. With renewed energy, the company is expanding its offerings, bringing in comedy, music, and other acts in addition to its award-winning theatrical productions.

Runner-Up: Theater Company of Lafayette

Theater Company B

Boulder Ensemble Theatre Company

Even as a national-award-winning group, Boulder Ensemble Theatre Company prioritizes community. Their acronym has embraced multiple meanings over the years, Butterfly Effect Theatre of Colorado, Boulder Ensemble Theatre Company, or simply “Betsy” after a member’s first theater teacher, all embracing local impact through theater.

Runner-Up: The Local Theater Company

Stage EC

Nissi’s

Here’s the thing about Nissi’s: it doesn’t matter who’s playing there. That’s because the acts are so expertly curated and the vibe of the venue so genuine, positive, and fun that on any given night, regardless of who’s on stage, you’re going to experience “the best night ever.”

Runner-Up: Steinbaugh Pavilion

Stage B

The Dairy Arts Center

The Dairy Arts Center is Boulder’s creative crossroads. On any given visit you might catch an indie film, stumble into a gallery opening, or end up at a performance you didn’t plan on but stay for anyway. It’s variety with purpose, and a hub the arts community truly uses.

Runner-Up: Bandshell

Arcade EC

Tilt! Pinball

You can hear it, right? The sound of the ball roaring down the chute. The slapping of the paddles. The laughter. The cheers. The stack of quarters toppling over. What you’re listening to are the sounds of a memorable night out at Tilt.

Runner-Up: Quarters

Arcade B

Press Play

Filled with vintage and contemporary games alike, this hole-in-the-wall arcade/bar combo hosts flat-screens and arcade machines, pool tables and pinball, poker tournaments and live DJs. Located on historic Pearl Street, Press Play is perfect for private family events or for casual evening hangouts.

Runner-Up: Gateway Fun Park

Pumpkin Patch EC

Cottonwood Farms

Cottonwood Farms is the kind of place childhood memories are made. Bob Condon’s farm turns fall into an experience — pumpkins, hayrides, animals, and mazes — then keeps the tradition going with Christmas trees come winter. It’s wholesome, hands-on, and deeply loved by local families.

Runner-Up: 7th Generation

Pumpkin Patch B

Munson’s Farms

A Boulder classic since 1976, Munson Farms has grown from a modest corn stand into a beloved family farm with more than 100 acres of produce, pumpkins, and seasonal fun. Each fall, locals and visitors alike wander the pumpkin patch, pick their own pumpkins, and soak up crisp autumn air against the foothills. It’s proof that some traditions only get better with time.

Runner-Up: Rocky Mountain Pumpkin Ranch

Local Celebrity EC

FACE – Cody Qualls

Internationally iTunes-charting artist Cody Qualls has found countless ways to charm and captivate his audiences since the age of sixteen. Whether he’s performing original rock, pop, hip-hop, and R&B tracks with his group The Brand New Ancients or catchy acapella arrangements with the ensemble FACE, he constantly brings infectious joy to the stage.

Local Celebrity B

Coach Prime

In his days as the player “Prime Time,” he became the only athlete who has ever played in both the World Series and the Super Bowl. Now, in his role as “Coach Prime,” he’s elevated the University of Colorado Boulder Buffaloes in the college football world, with 15 team appearances on national television in 2025 alone.

Health & Beauty

Day Spa EC

Blue Skies Massage & Wellness

Blue Skies feels like a pause button in the middle of Longmont. Owner Emily Bauer brings international training and a hospitality-first mindset into a space that’s calm, modern, and quietly luxurious. Every detail, from the rooms to the treatments, is designed to help you exhale and stay awhile.

Runner-Up: 95th St. Salon

Day Spa B

St. Julien Spa

A repeat Best of the West winner, St. Julien Spa is more than treatment rooms, it’s a full-scale wellness destination tucked into one of Boulder’s most elegant hotels. Spread across 10,000 square feet, the spa offers personalized massages, signature facials, sauna, steam room, and a 50-foot lap pool with mountain views, creating an immersive escape that unfolds at its own unhurried pace.

Runner-Up: Dragontree

Facial EC

Blue Skies Massage & Wellness

Relax into the clouds and find your bliss at Blue Skies Massage & Wellness. In addition to customized facials and advanced treatments like microneedling, the studio offers therapeutic massages, body treatments, targeted enhancements, and an infrared sauna designed to support both skin health and overall balance.

Runner-Up: Sustainable Beauty Colorado

Facial B

St. Julien Spa

A facial at St. Julien Spa isn’t something you squeeze in, it’s something you settle into. Treatments are elevated by the surrounding experience: steam, sauna, quiet lounges, and the sense that time has slowed down. It’s skincare wrapped inside a full afternoon of indulgence, which is exactly why readers keep voting it best.

Runner-Up: Dragontree

Salon EC

Golden Ember Salon

Golden Ember Salon doesn’t just cut hair, it upgrades moods. Expert color, sharp cuts, and stylists who actually get you make every visit feel like a mini glow-up.

Runner-Up: Salon Picasso

Salon B

Twig Salon

Established in the Boulder area over 15 years ago, Twig Salon is a staple in Boulder’s cosmetics industry. Beauticians here are known to take time to fully understand your vision before executing it to a “T.” Clients praise the shop for its LGBTQ+-friendly atmosphere, excellent service, and good vibes.

Runner-Up: Voodoo Hair Lounge

Barber EC

Woodward Barbers

Woodward Barbers (Erie) secured Best Barber in East County by a landslide thanks to their meticulous cuts and shaves. Looking for precision and care for a range of services? Look no further. From dry scalp treatment to their “It’s Been a Minute” cut, this classic-style barbershop delivers.

Runner-Up: Deluxe Barbers

Barber B

Hennepin Barbers

Hennepin Barbers cuts no corners in making their customers comfortable, whether it be the welcoming atmosphere, amiable staff, or supple leather chairs lining the shop. This South Boulder salon is known for stark beard trims and sharp haircuts for all ages, tailored to their customers’ every preference.

Runner-Up: Brooklyn Barber Academy

Massage EC

Blue Skies Massage & Wellness

Massage at Blue Skies isn’t one-size-fits-all. Led by owner Emily Bauer, the team starts with a thoughtful assessment and tailors each session to how your body actually feels that day. Whether it’s deep tissue, aromatherapy, or restorative work, the focus is relief that lasts beyond the table.

Runner-Up: Almita Massage

Massage B

Moving Mountains Massage

A full-time practitioner for over 20 years, Jesse Locke CMT, has devoted his life to Coloradans’ relaxation. This six-time BOTW winner is known for his calming presence and personalized approach to massage therapy. Find lower blood pressure, faster recovery, and improved emotional well-being with MMM.

Runner-Up: St. Julien Spa

Manicure/Pedicure EC

Salon Picasso

Salon Picasso turns nails into show-stopping statements. Expert techs, a cozy vibe, and a flair for the bold make every mani feel like a tiny celebration.

Runner-Up: Allure Nail Bar

Manicure/Pedicure B

Contempo Nails

The calm, welcoming environment invites you to relax with the knowledge that you will be pampered. Contempo Nails prides itself on staff longevity in an industry with high turnover. Other than its wide range of self-care services, they are kid-friendly, so you can both have an afternoon off.

Runner-Up: J Lounge

Medi Spa (Medical Treatments) EC

Valar Aesthetics

Valar Aesthetics blends medical precision with an atmosphere that’s warm, relaxed, and filled with laughter. Under Dr. Bauer’s care, results stay natural and never overdone, a consistency that’s made Valar a repeat Best of the West favorite.

Runner-Up: Sunflower Spa

Medi Spa (Medical Treatments) B

Vasu Skin Solutions

Vasu Skin Solutions is where Boulder goes when it wants skin that actually looks amazing. With laser treatments, tailored facials, and a team that remembers your name and your skin goals, clients walk in curious and leave radiant.

Runner-Up: Rinnova

Chiropractor EC

Chiropractic Center of Erie & Longmont

This isn’t the first time Dr. Dave has earned the award for what we call the best hands around. Known for finding “the spot,” his work goes far beyond simple adjustments, pairing deep tissue and muscle work with techniques like dry needling to treat the whole body. It’s this approach that keeps readers voting him best year after year.

Runner-Up: Live Your Life Chiropractic

Chiropractor B

Swan Lake Chiropractic

Swan Lake has been a Boulder staple for over 40 years, reversing spinal compression, correcting posture, and encouraging prenatal health. Owner Dr. Virginia “Ginger” Lawrence has practiced for 30+ years, and after having her own daughter, provides excellent prenatal and pediatric care in addition to many superb spinal services.

Runner-Up: The Joint

Veterinarian EC

Erie Animal Hospital

Dr. Sally Towner opened Erie Animal Hospital in a small farmhouse in 2001 and has grown it into a full-service, AAHA-accredited, Fear Free, cat-friendly practice. Long known for compassionate, individualized care, from acupuncture and rehab to integrative medicine, Dr. Towner’s steady presence and personal touch make this more than a vet clinic; it’s a partner in every pet’s life.

Runner-Up: Longmont Small Animal Hospital

Veterinarian B

Arapahoe Animal Hospital

Serving Boulder since 1954, Arapahoe Animal Hospital has built decades of trust by staying steady while the industry changed around it. Clear communication, long-standing relationships, and independent care keep generations of pet owners coming back. Not because it’s flashy, but because of kind, consistent care.

Runner-Up: Indian Peaks Vet

Medical Center EC

Kerix Health (formerly Nextera)

Under founder Dr. Clint Flanagan, Kerix Health (formerly Nextera) champions a concierge-style approach that prioritizes patient relationships over volume. Board-certified and community-rooted, Flanagan’s model gives people time with their doctor and personalized care, a commitment that’s now expanding into other states.

Runner-Up: Strive Direct Health

Medical Center B

Crossroads Medical Center

Founded in 1998 by 2025’s BOTW Best Doctor Carl Moritz, Crossroads Medical Center is one of only a few remaining independently owned medical clinics in Boulder. CMC doesn’t rush appointments, giving patients the attention and personalized care they need.

Runner-Up: Clinica Family Health

Hospital EC

Good Samaritan Hospital

A past and present winner, Good Samaritan Hospital is a recipient of frequent accolades, including landing in America’s top 5% of hospitals in clinical performance (Healthgrades). From being an official Level II Trauma Center to providing highly acclaimed joint replacement, GSH’s patients are in trusted hands.

Runner-Up: Longmont United

Hospital B

Boulder Community Health

For many Boulder residents, Boulder Community Health isn’t a choice, it’s been the hospital for 100 years. As the city’s independent, nonprofit health system, BCH has spent a century serving the community across multiple campuses, quietly becoming part of nearly every family’s story along the way.

Dentist EC

Keene Smiles

Dr. Greg Keene is known for recommending only what’s needed, easing anxiety, and giving back, including donating dental services to patients born without teeth. With long-tenured staff and a genuinely warm office, this is dentistry grounded in skill, ethics, and care.

Runner-Up: Artistic Smiles

Dentist B

Boulder Dental Center

BDC boasts remarkable convenience by making care accessible with multiple locations across Boulder and accepting major dental insurance plans. Dr. Danny Abboud has been at the helm since 2010, upholding the clinic’s excellent 40-year-old reputation as a one-stop dental care provider for whatever ails the Boulderite.

Runner-Up: Boulder Smiles

Doctor EC

Shawn Otteman – BCH

Dr. Shawn Otteman of Boulder Community Health has 30+ years of experience in his field and exceptional reviews to show for it. A family medicine physician who truly listens, patients say he refuses to rush appointments and genuinely connects, even calling to check in.

Runner-Up: Brad Brown – Strive

Doctor B

Dr. Christa Ambrose – Clinica

Dr. Ambrose is the doctor all medical professionals should strive to emulate. She chose to work with Clinica because it aligns with her medical philosophy: treating underserved people and making healthcare widely accessible. Her holistic approach prioritizes proper care, education, and wellness through constant communication with patients.

Runner-Up: Dr. Dirk Dolbeare – Boulder Orthopedics

Sports

Bike Shop EC

Louisville Cyclery
Louisville Cyclery has been part of Boulder County’s biking life for nearly half a century, and it shows the moment you walk in. Walls layered with race art and memories, lovingly serviced used bikes, a giant wooden bear out front, and lounge chairs that invite you to stay awhile. People linger so much they added a coffee cart — because this isn’t just a shop, it’s where cyclists hang out.
Runner Up: NuLife Cycles

Bike Shop B

Community Cycles
Community Cycles isn’t just about bikes, it’s about keeping them in motion. Since 2005, this nonprofit shop has repaired, reused, and redistributed thousands of bikes, pairing sustainability with real community impact. The mission runs deep, the knowledge is solid, and every bike saved from the landfill gets another life on the road.
Runner Up: Mike’s Bikes

Ski Shop EC

Angles Sports
Tours, new & used equipment, rentals. They started in a garage, and now you can find them on Main Street. Angles Sports owner, Ryan, loves fishing and sliding down the slopes so much he is probably open to doing it with you.
Runner Up: Snow Hut

Ski Shop B

Crystal Ski
Since 1976, Crystal Ski has been Boulder’s pre-powder pilgrimage. Owner Justin grew up in the shop, literally starting in high school before taking the reins. That continuity shows in the fit, the tuning, and the loyal locals who won’t head to the mountain without stopping here first.
Runner Up: Boulder Sports Recycler

Sporting Goods EC

Jax Outdoor
Since 1965, when it began as an 18-year-old’s idea for a military surplus store, Jax has stood strong as a unique and attractive paragon of Colorado at its finest. It is a Northern Colorado classic, which can make a small-town feel significant. YS respects the bona fide GOATs when credit is due.
Runner Up: Play It Again Sports

Sporting Goods B

Play It Again Sports
Committed to reusable gear and strong community loyalty, Play It Again Sports not only offers amazing and affordable deals, it serves as a center for local sports. Partnering with school athletic programs and clubs alike, if you’re a serious athlete, you will feel welcome here and perhaps find your new home, let alone sports hub.
Runner Up: Neptune Mountaineering

Golf Course EC

Indian Peaks Golf Course
Indian Peaks Golf Course has earned its loyal following by doing the fundamentals exceptionally well. A beautifully maintained course, approachable atmosphere, and steady consistency keep golfers coming back year after year. As a landslide repeat Best of the West winner, it’s a place where locals know exactly what they’re getting. And that’s the point.
Runner Up: Fox Hill Club

Golf Course B

Flatirons Golf Course
“Where Everyone Feels at Home” is a fitting slogan for Flatirons Golf Course. The course feels like what the heart of Boulder has to offer at its best: a fun and memorable time with natural greenery and comfortable vibes. On the city’s east side, the family-friendly atmosphere encourages the community to create memories.
Runner Up: Lake Valley Golf

Gym EC

RUF Fitness
RUF Fitness is built around showing up for your workout and for each other. With structured training, a supportive community, and an environment that doesn’t feel performative, it’s a gym where progress feels personal. No hype, no intimidation — just people putting in the work together.
Runner Up: Warrior Challenge Arena

Gym B

Mountain’s Edge
Mountains’ Edge Fitness offers a stress-free, inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and motivated to make progress. Bringing warmth to the community without pretense or judgment, the point of this place is to support the goals of the community rather than hinder it. It focuses on what’s really significant with fitness; the thief of joy is comparison.
Runner Up: Movement

Rec Center EC

Bob Burger Rec Center
Bob Burger Rec Center is Lafayette’s all-in-one community hub. From the outdoor water park and aquatics center to youth camps, adult leagues, and senior programs, it’s where multiple generations cross paths every day. Practical, busy, and deeply woven into town life, it’s recreation the way a community actually uses it.
Runner Up: Erie Community Center

Rec Center B

East Boulder Rec Center
East Boulder Rec Center isn’t just a building, it’s where generations of Boulder families learned to swim, picked up a basketball, and logged early-morning laps. The amenities matter, but it’s the community EBRC has built that makes it a true local staple.
Runner Up: North Boulder Rec Center

Ski Resort (Day Trip)

Eldora
Eldora is Boulder’s ski hill. It’s close, familiar, and deeply woven into Front Range winters. Whether you’re sneaking in a few runs before work or introducing someone to their first turns, its proximity and no-frills accessibility make it a longtime local favorite. Fast to get to, easy to love, and rooted in community history, Eldora remains the go-to when you just want to ski and not sit in traffic.
Runner Up: Loveland

Ski Resort (Overnight)

Winter Park Resort
This Colorado classic ski resort is a must-try for anyone interested in skiing. With comfortable and challenging slopes alike, and so much history to explore. They have built an open community and culture that will sustain winter sports for years to come.
Runner Up: Steamboat

Climbing Gym B

Boulder Rock Club
Opened 1991, BRC is one of the trailblazing gyms of the early indoor-climbing movement. Today it is still embossed in Boulder’s climbing culture as a Sendaholic’s haven. Boasting ever-updating routes, a weight room, a Moon Board, and more, this is the spot for rookies and veterans of the sport.
Runner Up: The Spot

Climbing Gym EC

Longmont Climbing Collective
A relative newcomer, Longmont Climbing Collective wasted no time winning over its community. With an inclusive, low-ego vibe and routes that welcome beginners and challenge seasoned climbers, it’s less about conquering walls and more about building confidence, connection, and a place people genuinely want to return to.
Runner Up: The Spot

Martial Arts EC

Bennett’s Karate
With deep roots in the honor and tradition of Japanese karate, this repeat winner brings a global culture to Boulder County. Time and time again they prove their reputation by bringing out the best in martial artists in and out of the Dojo. Spend some time with their community and classes and become the master you are meant to be.
Runner Up: Tran’s Martial Arts

Martial Arts B

Easton Jiu-Jitsu
Easton Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai continue to build a strong martial arts community grounded in self-improvement and mastery. This is why they are a clear, principled winner in Colorado’s culture. This is an excellent home for those looking to add the discipline and inspiration of martial arts tradition. The opportunity can significantly improve your life.
Runner Up: Boulder Karate

Yoga Studio EC

Soul Tree Studio
Soul Tree Yoga Studio offers a beautiful, warm, open space filled with compassion, a strong community, and sense of enlightenment. With a tradition rooted in the Eight Limbs of ethical restraints, the professionals here do an excellent job of guiding students toward a spiritually aware and fulfilling life.
Runner Up: Louisville Community Yoga

Yoga Studio B

Yoga Pearl
Yoga Pearl is a professional, open environment with a strong, enlightening community. Their excellent workshops and training will equip you with the skills to control your mind, filling your life with awareness and peace. This is a natural and enlightened winner.
Runner Up: Boulder Bikram Yoga

Pilates Studio EC

Rocky Mountain Pilates and Yoga
Rocky Mountain Pilates and Yoga provides an exceptional, spacious, and wonderful atmosphere filled with enlightened hearts and a shared journey of health and fitness. This location hosts a supportive community that will help actualize your success. No wonder they have won time and time again.
Runner Up: Pilates 4 Bodies

Pilates Studio B

The Pilates Center
The Pilates Center has built its reputation quietly and carefully over decades. Known for thoughtful instruction and instructors who truly pay attention, this Boulder staple attracts clients who value depth over trends. It’s not flashy, it’s effective, consistent, and rooted in the kind of expertise that keeps people coming back.
Runner Up: Bolder Pilates

Home & Hood

Old Town EC

Erie Old Town
With architecture dating back over a century, Erie’s historic downtown creates a classic atmosphere for Colorado residents and visitors. Truly the heart of Erie, the famous farmer’s market and various businesses are a hub for Erie’s locals and visitors to experience the best of Colorado culture.
Runner Up: Lafayette

Old Town B

Mapleton Hill
The historic Mapleton Hill neighborhood enhances Boulder’s classic, timeless aesthetic. With architecture and vegetation that stand the test of time, YS honors those responsible for Boulder’s most classic vibes.
Runner Up: Niwot

Neighborhood EC

Old Town Louisville
Old Town Louisville isn’t manufactured charm, it’s lived-in. Brick buildings, independent shops, longtime locals, and newer neighbors all share the same sidewalks, patios, and conversations. It’s the kind of downtown where you run into someone you know, linger longer than planned, and remember why small towns still matter.
Runner Up: Old Town Lafayette

Neighborhood B

NOBO Boulder
The North Boulder Arts District is responsible for bringing art and inspiration to North Boulder. With their extensive community engagement, colorful murals, and support for artists of all kinds, they inspire the community through their calling.
Runner Up: Whittier

Furniture EC

Woodley’s Fine Furniture
Woodley’s isn’t just selling furniture — they’re helping people settle in. Family-owned and Colorado-rooted for generations, the Woodleys built a business on listening, guiding, and making sure what you bring home actually fits your life. It’s why customers return decade after decade, not just room after room.
Runner Up: American Furniture Warehouse

Furniture B

Forma Furniture
Forma Furniture offers high-quality furniture with professional customer service and prestigious craftsmanship. This first-place winner earned their position by expertly furnishing Colorado homes with “that’s gorgeous” pieces.
Runner Up: Arhaus

Home Furnishings EC

Danish Furnishings
Known for its European furniture, high-quality showroom, and patient customer service, Danish Furnishings brings a taste of global culture to Colorado. Their breadth of experience and expertise make them a deserving winner. One trip in and you will appreciate what they offer as well.
Runner Up: Hello! Home Furnishings

Home Furnishings B

Boulder Furniture Arts
For over 30 years, Boulder Furniture Arts’ handmade and simplistic designs have responsibly furnished many Colorado homes. Their high-quality local business models call to new and repeat customers while the helpful customer service creates a comfortable experience from start to finish.
Runner Up: Derpy Dragon Woodworking

Home Improvement EC

Jax Ranch
Jax Ranch carries the weight of Colorado history on its shelves. Born from a 1965 surplus store and grown into a Front Range institution, Jax has always served people who work with their hands and live close to the land. It’s not trend-driven retail — it’s generational knowledge, dependable gear, and Colorado know-how passed forward.
Runner Up: Budget Home Supply

Home Improvement B

McGuckin Hardware
Since 1955 McGuckin Hardware has been a prime example of the impact a local business can have. Their expert staff are ready to assist you in finding the right tools to help turn a broken part of the home or new idea into a completed project.
Runner Up: Home Depot

Landscaper EC

Outdoor Craftsman
Outdoor Craftsman looks at a yard and sees possibility. Their team blends design, ecology, and craftsmanship to create outdoor spaces that actually belong in Colorado — native plants, smart irrigation, and landscapes meant to thrive, not fight the climate. The result isn’t just prettier yards, but ones that make sense.
Runner Up: Wild Heritage Gardens and Design

Landscaper B

Native Edge Landscape
Native Edge Landscape is the architect of Boulder’s most fun and restful backyard days. Whether it’s a cozy autumn day by a combo firepit + fireplace on an organically stone-tiled porch or a summer night in a poolside lounge at a hotel, Native Edge builds Boulder’s best residential and commercial sceneries.
Runner Up: Matrix Gardens

Realtor EC

The Fowler Group
The Fowler Group is made up of two sisters who come from a sixty-year long family legacy of realtors serving the Front Range. With their elaborate and cinematic Instagram reels, Brie and Jillian showcase how your home can be the centerpiece of your next story.
Runner Up: Audrey Atkinson

Realtor B

Tom Cohen / Compass
Tom Cohen started selling homes in 1990. He loves working directly with his clients, often reminding them that “Online search is fun. But it won’t text back or high-five you at closing. That’s what I’m here for.”
Runner Up: Arn Rasker / Sotheby’s

Plumber EC & B

Colorado Green Plumbing (landslide)
Colorado Green Plumbing won this year by a landslide (and it certainly wasn’t caused by a faulty sewer line). Homeowners praise president Paul Lingenfelter for his friendliness, trustworthiness, and willingness to educate customers. On top of their award-winning plumbing, they also provide stellar HVAC and boiler services.
Runner Up EC: Around the Clog
Runner Up B: Bernie’s Plumbing

Contractor EC

Silver Contracting
During the 2020 pandemic, contractors everywhere faced a garage door shortage — except Silver Contracting, which handcrafted its own custom doors. Known for adaptive attitude, they also facilitate stress-free building and renovation experiences.
Runner Up: Koeppen Construction

Contractor B

Melton Build & Design
Melton shares its design knowledge freely in workshops, including the annual Sugary Structure Showdown, where the top team donates to a local organization.
Runner Up: Petra Custom Builders

Tree Service EC

Reinholt Tree Services
A small team of arborists keeping trees healthy and residents safe from hazards, with 24-hour emergency tree care.
Runner Up: St Vrain Arbor Care

Tree Service B

Berkelhammer Tree
Berkelhammer Tree has shaped Boulder County’s landscape for decades, prioritizing stewardship over shortcuts. Founder Fred Berkelhammer championed tree care methods that protect pollinators: “saving the trees without killing the bees.”
Boulder Tree Surgeon

Auto Repair EC

Louisville Tire and Auto
Since 1993, Louisville Tire and Auto has provided honest, top-notch service. Technicians sell only what you need and provide flawless service.
Runner Up: Stang Auto

Auto Repair B

Pellman Automotive
Family-owned, transparent, and ASE-certified mechanics, providing updates, photos, and videos throughout the repair process.
Runner Up: Hoshi Motors

Lawyer EC

Lyons-Gaddis
Lyons Gaddis shows up prepared and explains things clearly. For 50+ years, their attorneys have helped navigate complex situations with steadiness and plainspoken guidance.
Runner Up: Gstalder Law Firm

Lawyer B

Hutchinson, Black & Cook
A picture of legal excellence, HBC has been a Boulder standard for over a century, offering small-firm attention with big-firm standards.
Runner Up: Frascona Joiner Goodman & Greenstein

Bank or Credit Union Boulder County

Elevations Credit Union
Founded in 1952, member-owned, community-driven, emphasizing personalized service and financial education.
Runner Up: Premier Members Credit Union

Place to Buy A Car in Boulder County

Fisher Honda
Craig Fisher built a soft-spoken, no-pressure dealership approach locals recognize immediately.
Runner Up: Valley Subaru

NonProfit EC

Sister Carmen
Founded in the 1970s by Sister Carmen Ptacnik, providing goods and support to local families.
Runner Up: Community Food Share

NonProfit B

EFAA
Serving Boulder County for over 100 years, providing food, housing, education, and advocacy.
Runner Up: Rocky Mountain Equality

Politician

Joe Neguse
Congressman for Colorado’s 2nd District since 2018, focused on climate, public lands, and democracy protection.
Runner Up — Former Erie Mayor Justin Brooks

Artist EC

Angie Nordstrom
Boulder-area painter and muralist, combining expressive emotions with upbeat messages inspired by nature.
Runner Up: Kristi Arzola

Artist B

Phil Lewis
Print-driven pieces and clean, modern compositions, with exquisite kaleidoscopic imagery.
Runner Up: Sam Cikauskas

Marijuana Dispensary EC

Herbal Wellness
All-inclusive, tailored dispensary experience with attentive budtenders and loyalty programs.
Runner Up — Igadi

Marijuana Dispensary Boulder

The Farm
Premium yet welcoming dispensary with consistent flower quality and wide selection of concentrates.
Runner Up — Karing Kind

Glass EC

Hillcrest Glass
Since 1969, providing reliable residential and commercial glass services with precision and craftsmanship.

Glass B

Slade Glass Co
Modern sensibility with a long-standing presence in custom glass work since 1961.

Tattoo Shop EC

Inksmith
Friendly, clean, professional setting that makes getting a tattoo approachable for everyone.
Runner: Main Street Tattoo

Tattoo Shop B

Boulder Ink
One of Boulder’s oldest shops, balancing technical skill with personal expression, open daily.
Runner Up: Rising Tide Tattoo

Shopping

Shoe Store EC

Brown’s Shoe Store
How do we tell you Brown’s Shoes is the locals’ favorite when they’ve won all 26 years? That’s how.

Runner Up: Jax

Shoe Store B

Apocalypse
In Boulder, the answer to every “Where did you get those shoes?!” question is Apocalypse. You can complete any fit there with the incredible selection of shoes for a Saturday night along with everyday wear pairs.
Runner Up: Two Sole Sisters

Eyewear EC

The Optical Centre
For more than 50 years on Main Street, The Optical Centre has stayed locally owned, independent, and loved. They pair comprehensive eye care with a curated, timeless eyewear selection, plus the steady expertise of Dr. Jeff Berger. Longmont keeps choosing them, and it’s easy to see why.
Runner Up: Lafayette Eye Associates

Eyewear B

Envision Optical
There’s a special kind of walk you see from people when they leave Envision Optical. It’s confident, strong, almost a strut. It’s that walk you have when you’re feeling your best and looking great.
Runner Up: Tom’s Sportique Eyewear

Jewelry EC

Anspach’s Jewelry
You’re not just buying a necklace or a ring, you’re starting a story. And the jewelers at Anspach’s will make sure it’s one told with heart, thoughtfulness, sincerity, and history.
Runner Up: Eric Olson Master Jewelers

Jewelry B

Hurdles
At Hurdle’s you don’t shop as much as you wander, waiting for that perfect piece to speak to you. Jewelry is more than just an “accessory,” it’s an extension of your personality.
Runner Up: Schapell Jewelers

Fashion Boutique for Women EC

Snow Apparel
Snow Apparel is a cornucopia of timeless style. From showcasing local artisans to international masters, owner Snow White ensures every purchase makes an impact. She uplifts marginalized masterpieces while making customers look and feel triumphant in their new threads.
Runner Up: Ivy Rose

Fashion Boutique for Women B

Apocalypse
Shopping locally isn’t just a slogan; it’s the Apocalypse aesthetic. Madison Moorhead McCabe and Jed Bickford McCabe champion shoppers away from fast fashion, offering a haven to find better ends.
Runner Up: Jacque Michelle

Men’s Clothing EC

Acme Fine Goods
The Internet makes it easy to shop, but Acme Fine Goods makes it fun. Trying something on and falling in love is a tactile experience, leaving you feeling like the world’s best-dressed man.
Runner Up: Jax

Men’s Clothing B

Weekends
For men looking to reset their wardrobe or find a new favorite shirt, Weekends offers unmatched stylist passion and knowledge. You’ll leave not just looking good, but feeling good.
Runner Up: Canoe Club

Consignment Clothing EC

Found Underground
When it’s time for a style-swap, this is the place to go. You get new clothes while helping the environment, and your old favorites may resurface for someone else.
Runner Up — Fabulous Finds

Consignment Clothing B

Apocalypse
Beyond gently used women’s clothing, Apocalypse is the go-to for finding pieces that express “This is who I am.”
Runner Up: Rags Consignment

Shopping District/Center EC

Downtown Longmont
Restaurants, shops, art, and event venues abound, but the most important element: the people. Seeing neighbors and community members enjoying it all builds real community.
Runner Up: Downtown Lafayette

Shopping District/Center B

Pearl Street Mall
Shop for gifts, records, food, and tattoos — Pearl Street is Boulder as it’s meant to be.
Runner Up: 29th Street Mall

Bookstore EC

Read Queen
A revolutionary literary hub, offering book clubs, workshops, and discerning curation. Miss it at your own risk.
Runner Up: Barbed Wire Books

Bookstore B

Boulder Bookstore
The agora for late-night thinkers, with a library of awards since 1987.
Runner Up:Trident Booksellers

Florist EC

Lafayette Florist
For 75 years, Lafayette Florist has crafted flowers as personal messages, from welcoming neighbors to marking life milestones.
Runner Up: Longmont Florist

Florist B

Boulder Blooms
Kim Thielke’s studio-style approach ensures every arrangement feels personal, seasonal, and distinctly Boulder.
Runner Up: Sturtz & Copeland

Kid’s Store EC

Longmont Museum
A time machine with 17,000+ objects, creating cerebral and emotional connections with history.
Runner Up: Adorn Kids

Kid’s Store B

Grandrabbits
Almost 50 years of expanding kids’ imaginations with personal, fun shopping experiences.
Runner Up: Pitter Patter

Gift Shop EC

Vintrey
Vintage, handmade, and fair-trade gifts curated inside a 1900s home for a “hidden treasures” shopping feel.
Runner Up: Bricks on Main

Gift Shop B

Cedar and Hyde
Gifts that elicit “Oh Wow!” moments — housewarming, birthdays, or a treat for yourself.
Runner Up:Bliss

Natural Goods EC & B

Natural Grocers
Beyond healthy food, they provide wellness classes and a dedicated nutrition center, committed to community wellness.
Runner Up EC: Little Herbal Apothecary
Runner Up B: Nude Foods

Grocer EC

Sprouts
A shopper’s delight, filled with tasty and nutritious items. Be prepared for a bigger cart.
Runner Up: Natural Grocers

Grocer B

Lucky’s Market
Independently owned, locally sourced, and organic, offering the best of Boulder on its shelves.
Runner Up: Trader Joe’s

Pet Supply EC

Gigi & Co
Intentional selection of health-forward essentials and local brands, plus force-free training expertise.
Runner Up: Happy Beast

Pet Supply B

PCs Pantry
From a small house to a 30th Street facility, P.C.’s Pantry combines personal shopping with nearly 25 years of excellence.
Runner Up: Only Natural Pet Supplies

Consignment & ReUse Furniture EC

Fabulous Finds
Walk-in, drop-off, and mobile consignment options with a warm, local environment supporting organizations like The Inn Between and Habitat for Humanity.
Runner Up: Furn Consignment

Consignment & ReUse Furniture B

Goodwill
Colorado’s 45-location network, with the Boulder store winning readers’ hearts and providing convenient donation drop-offs.
Runner Up: Pig & Pearl

Record Store B

Paradise Found Records
When you buy a record in Boulder, you buy it at Paradise Found Records; which has curated one of the most extensive catalogs of vinyl in Boulder County. With 26 years of winning Best of the West Awards, Paradise Found Records remains unmatched for botomless crate digging. 
Runner Up: Beat Book Shop

Record Store EC

Absolute Vinyl
Epicenter of Boulder County’s analogue revival, with local music archives and audiophile gems.
Runner Up: Little Horse Louisville

Musical Instruments EC

Guitar Hut
Honest repairs and innovative instruments, avoiding pretentious vibes while offering tried-and-true gear.
Runner Up: Monkton Guitar

Musical Instruments B

HB Woodsongs
Founded in 1971, Boulder’s longest-running music store offers instruments, lessons, rentals, tuneups, and an online shop.
Runner Up: Boulder Drum Shop

Quilting/Sewing EC

The Presser Foot
A BERNINA dealer with 500+ years combined experience, crafting quality work and guiding customers to the right machine.
Runner Up: The Quilt Store

Quilting/Sewing B

Elfriede’s Fine Fabrics
Since 1974, offering distinctive textiles and guidance that keep generations of makers returning.
Runner Up: Sew-Bo

Education/Kids

Place to Play with the Kids EC

WOW! Children’s Museum
Since 1996, WOW! Children’s Museum has become a cornerstone for young ones under 12. Through their Play for All program and inclusive mission, WOW! ensures every child has a safe place to have fun. Who wouldn’t want to play in a restored fire-station?
Runner Up: Coal Creek Park

Place to Play with the Kids B

ABC Kids Climbing
For kids who don’t stay still, ABC Kids Climbing offers endless opportunities. Toddlers can learn in safe spaces while elite climbers train, and parents can join in at open gym sessions!
Runner Up: Gateway Park Fun Center

Private School EC

Dawson School
Founded in 1970, Dawson School pairs strong academics with real choice. With 80 electives and 16 AP courses, students build a path unique to them. College prep is intentional, personal, and student-centered.
Runner Up: Saint John the Baptist

Private School B

Boulder Country Day
Teachers at Boulder Country Day truly know their students. Serving preschool through 8th grade, BCD combines strong academics with hands-on learning in a close-knit community, helping students grow confident and articulate.
Runner Up: Boulder Valley Waldorf School

Public School EC

Centaurus High School
Centaurus High pairs academic opportunity with a supportive culture. From standout arts programs to CU Boulder-aligned college pathways, students are encouraged to shape their future in a community that shows up for them.
Runner Up: Niwot High School

Public School B

Fairview High School
Fairview High emphasizes challenge, engagement, and meaning. The honors program and dedicated faculty cultivate a positive learning experience, producing frequent National Merit Finalists.
Runner Up: Horizons K-8

Summer Camp EC

Colorado Mountain Ranch
With roots reaching back to 1925, Colorado Mountain Ranch encourages kids to get outdoors and connect with nature — something better than wifi.
Runner Up: YMCA Northern Colorado

Summer Camp B

Renaissance Adventures
Renaissance Adventures brings imagination to life through creative role-playing, castle-building, and playground adventures.
Runner Up: Square State Skate

Music School EC

School of Rock
Performance-based music education helps students conquer stage fright and build confidence before adulthood — all while having a rockstar experience.
Runner Up: Center for Musical Arts

Music School B

HB Woodsongs Teaching Studios
From beginners to professionals, HB Woodsongs fosters creativity through deep listening, guided exploration, and improvisation, creating a complete music ecosystem in Boulder.
Runner Up:Harmony Music House

The post Best of the West 2026 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Producing Best of the West is no easy feat — it takes an incredible amount of human hours. Our standards are high: every winner’s blurb must be personalized and, most importantly, interesting to read. Cookie-cutter and boring don’t fly at Yellow Scene Magazine.

As a hyper-local, independent publication, we often operate on fumes. Journalism isn’t where the big dollars are, which is why sustaining support from the community is critical. In today’s climate, producing unbought and unbossed journalism matters more than ever. After 25 years, we refuse to sell out to the highest bidder. That said, being independent also means we’re “scrappy” (a polite way to say we’re working by the seat of our pants).

Despite the challenges, Best of the West is one of the most joyous issues to produce. It’s labor-intensive, but we get to call people with genuinely good news — how great is that?

These wins are truly honorable. YS’s ballot is write-in only — no pay-to-play, no multiple-choice. Just Best (Category) Blank. Readers decide who’s the best, not us.

Our first seven years of archives aren’t online yet (they’re still sitting on discs in the office), and even those need formatting TLC. Some categories are newer, and Boulder joined Best of the West in 2008. But we have hard copies and a living history of Boulder County.

Here are some of the most notable winners, each with over 10 years of wins. Want to create real change? Stop giving your money to billionaires and support these amazing local businesses instead!

Special Nods

Piripi (13 wins in 5 years)

615 Briggs St Suite C, Erie

www.piripirestaurant.com

10+ years

24 Carrot

578 Briggs St, Erie

www.24carrotbistro.com

Anderson Farms

6728 County Rd 3 1/4, Erie

andersonfarms.com

Avery Brewing

4910 Nautilus Ct N, Boulder

www.averybrewing.com

Berkelhammer Tree

28th St, Boulder, CO

berkelhammer.com

Bitter Bar

835 Walnut St, Boulder, CO

www.thebitterbar.com

Blackbelly/Hosea Rosenburg

Boulder, Denver

www.blackbelly.com

Button Rock Bakery

400 W South Boulder Rd, Lafayette

www.buttonrockbakery.com

Cosmo’s Pizza

Boulder, Lafayette, Denver, Fort collins,

cosmospizza.com

Crystal Ski Shop

1933 28th St #101, Boulder

www.crystalskishop.com

Dairy Arts Center

2590 Walnut St, Boulder

www.thedairy.org

Dragontree Spa

2405 Broadway, Boulder

www.thedrangontree.com

Eats & Sweets

401 S Public Rd, Lafayette

www.eatsandsweets.net

Elevations Credit Union

Multiple Locations

www.elevationscu.com

Firehouse Art Center

667 4th Ave, Longmont,

www.firehouseart.org

Flatirons Golf Course

5710 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder

www.bouldercolorado.gov/locations/flatirons-golf-course

Foolish Craig’s Cafe

1611 Pearl St, Boulder

www.foolishcraigs.com

Full Cycle 

2355 30th St, Boulder

www.fullcyclesbikes.com

Georgia Boys

Longmont, Frederick, Greeley

www.georgiaboys.com

Greenbriar Inn

8735 N Foothills Hwy, Boulder,

www.greenbriarinn.com

Hoshi Motors

2907 55th St Unit 1, Boulder

www.hoshimotors.net

Lulu’s BBQ

701 Main St, Louisville

www.lulusbbq.net

Marco’s Hot Dogs & Taco’s

1647 Kimbark St, Longmont

www.marcoshotdogsandtacos.com

Morning Glory

1377 Forest Park Cir #101, Lafayette

www.morningglorylafayette.com

Mountain Sun/Southern Sun/Longs Peak

627 S Broadway #E, Boulder

www.mountainsunpub.com

Moving Mountains Massage

1800 30th St #220N, Boulder

movingmountainsmassage.com

Moxie Bread

641 Main St, Louisville

moxiebreadco.com

North & East Boulder Rec Centers

E: 5660 Sioux Dr, Boulder N: 3170 Broadway, Boulder

bouldercolorado.gov/locations/north-boulder-recreation-center

Organic Sandwich Co.

1500 Pearl St #F, Boulder

www.organicsandwichco.com

Ozo Coffee

Longmont, Boulder, Arapahoe

www.ozocoffee.com

Pellman’s Automotive

2560 49th St., Boulder

www.pellmansauto.com

Piece, Love & Chocolate

805 Pearl St., Boulder

www.pieceloveandchocolate.com

Salon Picasso

489 US-287 #120, Lafayette

www.salonpicassohairstudio.com

SALT

1047 Pearl St., Boulder

www.saltboulder.com

Tangerine

Longmont, Lafayette, Boulder

www.tangerineeats.com

Taj Mahal 3

1075 E South Boulder Rd. #145, Louisville

www.tajmahal3.com

Tilt! Pinball

640 Main St. #B, Louisville

www.tiltcolorado.com

Village Coffee Shop

1605 Folsom St., Boulder

www.villagecoffeeshopboulder.com

15+ years

Atlas Valley Purveyors

2770 Arapahoe Rd #100, Lafayette

avpurveyors.com

Boulder Wine Merchant

2690 Broadway, Boulder

boulderwine.com

Bookcliff Vineyards

1501 Lee Hill Dr. #17, Boulder

www.bookcliffvineyards.com

Big Daddy Bagels

Longmont, Boulder, Lafayette

www.bigdaddybagels.com

The Boulder Cork

3295 30th St., Boulder

www.bouldercork.com

Busaba Thai Restaurant

East Boulder, Central Boulder

www.busabaco.com

Jax Outdoor Gear + Farm & Ranch

Lafayette, Broomfield

www.jaxgoods.com

Nissis

1455 Coal Creek Dr. #T, Lafayette

www.nissis.com

Pumphouse Brewery

540 Main St., Longmont

www.pumphousebrewery.com

Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant

1101 Walnut St., Boulder

www.riograndemexican.com

Stan’s Automotive

1950 W South Boulder Rd., Lafayette

www.stansautomotive.com

St Julien Hotel & Spa, Jill’s Restaurant & Bistro

900 Walnut St., Boulder

www.stjulien.com

Sushi Zanmai

1221 Spruce St., Boulder

www.izakayaamu.com

Waterloo Louisville

817 Main St., Louisville

www.waterloolouisville.com

West End Tavern

926 Pearl St., Boulder

www.thewestendtavern.com

20+ years

Boulder Creek Festival

1236 Canyon Blvd, Boulder, CO 80302

www.bouldercreekfest.com

Carelli’s Italian Restaurant

645 30th St, Boulder, CO 80303

www.carellis.com

Chez Thuy Fine Vietnamese Cuisine

2655 28th St, Boulder, CO 80301

www.chezthuy.com

Chiropractic Center of Erie & Longmont

698 Briggs St, Erie, CO 80516

www.eriechiro.com

Eldora Ski Resort

2861 Eldora Ski Rd, Nederland, CO 80466

www.eldora.com

Fox Theatre

1135 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302

www.z2ent.com/fox-theatre-venue

Hapa Sushi

Boulder, Denver

hapasushi.com

Lafayette Peach Festival

Public Road, Lafayette, CO 80026

www.lafayettecolorado.com/peach-festival

Louisville Cyclery

889 E South Boulder Rd, Louisville, CO 80027

www.louisvillecyclery.com

Sakura Japanese Restaurant

600 S Airport Rd, Longmont, CO 80503

www.sakuralongmont.com

Sugarbeet

101 Pratt St, Longmont, CO 80501

www.sugarbeetrestaurant.com

All 25 years

Bob Burger Rec Center

111 W Baseline Rd, Lafayette, CO 80026

www.lafayetteco.gov/2574/Bob-L-Burger-Recreation-Center

Boulder Theatre

2032 14th St, Boulder, CO 80302

www.z2ent.com/boulder-theater-venue

Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant 

2480 Canyon Blvd m1, Boulder, CO 80302

www.efrainsofboulder.com

Indian Peaks Golf Course

2300 Indian Peaks Trail, Lafayette, CO 80026

www.indianpeaksgolf.com

Jax Seafood

Multiple locations

www.jaxfishhouse.com

Luciles Creole Cafe

Multiple locations

www.luciles.com

Moe’s Broadway Bagels

Multiple locations

www.moesbagel.com

Santiagos 

Multiple locations

www.eatatsantiagos.com

The Sink

1165 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302

www.thesink.com

Snarf’s Sandwiches

Multiple locations

www.eatsnarfs.com

Shop Local—it’s more than a slogan. It’s a Revolution.

The post The Ones We Love Most appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Restaurants

24 Carrot, Erie CO

Overall EC

24 Carrot Bistro: Replicating last year’s contest nearly to a T, 24 Carrot eeks out the top spot for consecutive years. Erie’s burgeoning dining scene is attracting more and more attention, with 24 Carrot offering a new take on something that is a deep Colorado tradition if you think about it: Farm-to-Table dining.

RUNNER UP – Piripi

The Cork, Boulder CO

Overall & Best Steak Boulder

Boulder Cork: Cork’s legacy is already cemented in Boulder’s history as a beloved, but morphable institution. Since 1969 Boulder Cork has provided fine dining via a focus on locally sourced ingredients and prestigious chefs. One more first-place Best of the West is yet another feather in their cap.

RUNNER UP –  OAK at Fourteenth

Sugarbeet, Longmont CO

Contemporary EC

Sugarbeet: We told you last year in Sugarbeet’s first-place review, make reservations ahead of time! Even their website suggests so, right at the top. This is East County’s top spot for cutting-edge cuisine, there is a reason tables are so in demand.

RUNNER UP – Community

Oak on 14th, Boulder CO

Contemporary Boulder

OAK at Fourteenth: Focusing on the “multitude of cultures that have lived in Colorado, OAK at Fourteenth’s ever-changing menu reflects the season and inspirations that make dining here an experience not just a night out. An exceptional spirits list is another reason readers love coming here.

RUNNER UP – Spruce Farm & Fish

Stacy’s Kitchen, Erie CO

Newcomer EC

Stacy’s Kitchen: East County welcomed Stacy’s Kitchen by awarding them their first-ever Best of the West award this year. Whether it is sweets or sandwiches, Stacy’s has you covered. Affordable and tasty, we see why they’ve earned a spot on the list already.

RUNNER UP – Rumbo 52

Newcomer Boulder

Gemini: Spanish-influenced Gemini again takes home the Newcomer award. This just reinforces the fact that if you haven’t been, you need to go. With tapas of patatas bravas, cheeses, and olives paired with a glass of red, close your eyes and you’ll be in Barcelona.

RUNNER UP – Postino Wine Cafe

Ruby Ru’s, Boulder CO

Cheap Eats EC

Ruby Ru’s: Deciding to open a food truck is a huge step in any chef’s culinary journey. Finding enough success to take that food truck and turn it into a brick-and-mortar location is astounding. Enter Ruby Ru’s in Lafayette. Now serving affordable food from a fixed location.

RUNNER UP – Eats & Sweets

Cheap Eats & Hot Dog Boulder

Mustard’s Last Stand: Mustard’s Last Stand has been winning Best of the West awards in various categories for over a decade now. Iconic, classic, institution, whatever word you want to use to describe these Chicago-style dogs works. Gluten-free and veggie options ensure everyone can have a taste.

RUNNER UP – Illegal Pete’s

Andy Clark RIP, Moxie Bread, Louisville CO

Bread EC & Boulder

Moxie: If you want the best bread there’s only one place to get it. Boulder and East County readers both voted for Moxie in an absolute landslide. The love that Andy, rest in peace, baked into this place is still being felt in every warm loaf.

RUNNER UP (EC) – Babette’s

RUNNER UP (B) – Great Harvest

Button Rock, Lafayette CO

Bakery EC

Button Rock Bakery & Kenny Lou’s Deli: The Swiss-army knife of restaurants, Button Rock & Kenny Lou’s Deli can do it all. In this case, they’re taking home the gold for best bakery but don’t think for a second they’re just limited to baked goods! Deli, sushi, gluten-free options, if you can’t decide, just get it all.

RUNNER UP – Cherry’s Cheesecakes & Delights

Lucky’s Bakehouse, Boulder CO

Bakery Boulder

Lucky’s Bakehouse: Gluten-free, paleo, blue-corn cookies, and croissants that take two days to make, Lucky’s puts time and care into every product to ensure each customer — who pastry chef Jennifer often knows by name — can find something satisfying for their tastes. 

RUNNER UP – Shamane’s Bakery

Moe’s Broadway Bagels, Multiple Locations

Bagel EC & Boulder

Moe’s Broadway Bagels: We’re not sure if anyone will ever dethrone Moe’s from their top bagel spot. Every year it’s not even close, Moe’s wins in a blowout. We can wax poetic about the dough, flavor, and care, but just try one yourself (as if you haven’t already).

RUNNER UP – Big Daddy Bagels

Georgia Boys, Longmont and Frederick CO

BBQ EC

Georgia Boys: BBQ is personal. Each person has their taste, their perfect bite, their ideal tenderness. For what it’s worth, Georgie Boys nails it all. Check out the Smokehouse, the Shack, and the Greeley location — celebrating 10 years — or take it to-go, either way, they have you covered with great service and even re-heating instructions for ideal taste.

RUNNER UP – Lulu’s BBQ

KT’s BBQ, Boulder CO

BBQ Boulder

KT’s: Ask a real BBQ enthusiast about their favorite style and you’ll likely launch them into a diatribe about regional differences, traditional rules, and absolute no-no’s of this varied and proud American tradition. If you’re seeking Memphis style, that slow-cooked dry-rubbed pork, you’re looking for KT’s.

RUNNER UP – C’s BBQ Catering

Tangerine, Boulder, Lafayette and Longmont CO

Breakfast EC & Boulder

Tangerine (landslide): Why let eggs, pancakes, toast, and bacon be limited to morning time? Tangerine lets you satisfy your breakfast craving any time of day in either of their three locations. With quality olive oil, attention to gluten sensitivity, and a Buddhist-influenced name, Tangerine is not your average diner.

RUNNER UP – Lucile’s: Boulder, Erie & Longmont

Breakfast Burrito EC & Boulder

Santiago’s, Mulitple Locations

Santiago’s (landslide): The art of the breakfast burrito. Perfectly wrapped yet stuffed full, balancing hot, cold, spicy, and savory in a delicate concert. Readers have spoken yet again, the only place to find the perfect breakfast burrito across Boulder and East County is Santiago’s.

RUNNER UP (EC) – Taco Wagon

RUNNER UP (B) – Santo

24 Carrot, Erie CO

Brunch EC

24 Carrot: Grabbing yet another first place, 24 Carrot offers quality food for any time of day. With enough Best of the West awards to fill a novel, 24 Carrot is again shown love by readers across the area.

RUNNER UP – Morning Glory

Greenbriar Inn, Boulder CO

Brunch Boulder

Greenbriar: Oysters for brunch? Yes, please. Greenbriar’s brunch is a must-have Boulder delicacy, with fresh farm-to-table herbs and produce, and elevated American cuisine. There’s a reason why it’s topped the charts for years.

RUNNER UP – Jill’s Restaurant & Bistro

The Waterloo, Louisville CO

Burger EC

Waterloo: Named after Waterloo Records, the restaurant has a motto of “God Bless Johnny Cash,” and all of the flair and tunes to draw in 90’s music lovers. 

RUNNER UP – Rusty Melon

The Sink, Boulder CO

Burger Boulder

The Sink: Boulder’s oldest restaurant has drawn visitors like the Obamas, Guy Fieri, and Anthony Bourdain to its doors. A historical business in the region, it’s been open for more than 100 years and it features a funky, fun, and artistic aesthetic. 

RUNNER UP – Mountain Sun / Southern Sun 

Colorado Wok, Lafayette CO

Chinese EC

Colorado Wok: Colorado Wok is a stand-out restaurant for two reasons: flavor and portion size. Established in 2005, the cuisine is consistent, delicious, and fresh. The restaurant vibe is relaxed, casual, and friendly. 

RUNNER UP – Fan’s Chinese

Mason’s Dumpling House, Boulder CO and CA

Chinese Boulder

Mason’s Dumpling Shop: The first Mason’s Dumpling Shop was opened in 2001 in California when Alan Lam and Grace Li brought traditional Shenyang dumplings to the table. Today, the Boulder location embeds the same traditions into the food while featuring homemade dumplings with locally sourced produce and meat. 

RUNNER UP – Zoe MaMa

Meco’s Coffee Collective, Longmont and Lafayette CO

Coffee House EC

Meco Coffee Collective: The Meco Coffee Collective opened its doors to artists, entrepreneurs, and coffee enthusiasts in 2021 to build community. A quaint, intimate setting, the collective showcases local art while brewing one of the best cups of coffee in town. 

RUNNER UP – FOX•DOG Coffee

Coffee House Boulder

(tie) – Boxcar Coffee Roasters: Boxcar Coffee Roasters provide an experience as much as a caffeine fix. With ample interior seating and shared space with Cured sandwiches, visitors are quick to love the laid-back environment while sipping unique concoctions like a Shot in the Dark. 

(tie) – Ozo Coffee Company: A quiet but popular study space, Ozo Coffee offers one of the best single-origin espresso roasts in the area, as well as an excessive variety of non-dairy milk options. With both indoor and outdoor seating, this space is usually bustling because of its moderate prices and mellow vibe. 

Morning Glory, Lafayette CO

Gluten-Free EC

Morning Glory Cafe: Rabbit, boar, and antelope, Oh my! Morning Glory emphasizes fresh, organic, and sustainable ingredients that accommodate those with dietary restrictions, all while providing a unique upmarket menu. 

RUNNER UP – Button Rock Bakery & Kenny Lou’s Deli

Zeal – Food for Enthusiasts, Boulder CO

Gluten-Free Boulder

Zeal: Going gluten-free often means that you have to forfeit tasty food items like rolls, burgers, and bread, but not at Zeal! This restaurant offers a majority gluten-free menu with items like gyros, and mac ‘n cheese topping the list of favorites. 

RUNNER UP –  Vitality Bowls

Dessert EC

Button Rock Bakery & Kenny Lou’s Deli: This is the place to be if you’re looking for variety. From pork rolls to burrito bowls and sushi, Kenny Lou’s carves a name for itself for its in-house concoctions while Button Rock provides the most decadent, allergy-friendly cakes in town.

RUNNER UP – Cherry’s Cheesecakes & Delights

Boulder Baked, Boulder CO

Dessert Boulder

Boulder Baked: You know you’re in the right place when a wall of the bakery is dedicated to the awards that the business has received over the years. A cozy bakery in downtown Boulder, Boulder Baked makes your pastries to order, offering a variety of gluten-free options, and a coffee-shop-like aesthetic.

RUNNER UP – Lucky’s Bakehouse

Snarf Sandwiches, Multiple Locations

Colorado-Based Chain

Snarfs: Eating at Snarfs is something like a Colorado right-of-passage, with its grungy vibe and cartoon-like interior. A local chain that’s best known for its Italian Sandwich, Jimmy Seidel opened its first location in Boulder in 1996 after deciding to make the best sandwich in the world. Now, people from everywhere come to the neon-colored environment for an epic experience. 

RUNNER UP – Cosmos

Santiagos, Multiple Locations, CO

Green Chile EC

Santiagos : Santiagos is your best bet when you’re looking for no-frills Mexican food. The one ingredient that makes this place stand apart from others is its legendary green chile. It’s so good that they bottle it and sell it at local grocery stores. 

RUNNER UP – Rumbo 52

Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant, Boulder CO

Green Chile Boulder

Efrains Boulder: Efrains used to be known as the greatest hole in the wall ever, and in their spiffy new digs, they are packed all the time — just like always. It’s carved a name for itself in Boulder for its spicy green chili, which comes with chunks of pork and can be practically eaten as a bowl of soup.

RUNNER UP – Santo

Taj Mahal 3, Louisville CO

Indian EC

Taj Mahal 3: Elevated Indian food doesn’t get much more memorable than it does at Taj Mahal 3. Located in Louisville, this restaurant has been bringing rich flavors to the table for more than 20 years. The interior decor sets the vibe with traditional-style drapery and comfortable, round booths while providing a variety of northern Indian dishes. 

RUNNER UP – Flavor of India

The Taj, Boulder CO

Indian Boulder

The Taj: Chai lovers rejoice! The Taj offers the best cup in town as well as one of the most generous and fresh buffets in Boulder. Dine in comfort while feasting your eyes on a beautiful view of the Flat Irons. 

RUNNER UP – Tiffin’s India Cafe 

Parma Trattoria, Louisville CO

Italian EC

Parma Trattoria: There are few places that offer the same level of coziness as Parma Trattoria. While the restaurant is deceiving from the outside, the interior features a fireplace, trendy decor,  intimate lighting, and under which you can eat your fill of pizza and pasta. 

RUNNER UP – Gondolier

Carrelli’s of Boulder

Italian Boulder

Carellis: Garnished with an open fireplace, mosaic tiles, and warm lighting, some consider it to be an “essential fixture” in town. Plus, it has a gluten-free menu, essential for anyone with an allergy looking to indulge in classic Italian. With all its elegance, it’s hard to believe it started as a sandwich shop so many years ago. 

RUNNER UP – Pasta Jay’s

TeoCalli, Lafayette and Arvada CO

Mexican  & Taco EC

TeoCalli: Typically a very busy restaurant, TeoCalli blends traditional cuisine with contemporary flair. Readers voted them both Best Mexican and Best Taco, so you know what to order! The atmosphere is lighthearted but slightly elevated. It’s full of food classics like tacos and delicacies like bone marrow. 

RUNNER UP – Rumbo 52

Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant, Boulder CO

Mexican Boulder

Efrains Boulder: Efrains was established in 1998, bringing classic Chihuahuan cuisine to Boulder. The restaurant is colorful and bright, like the food, and the people. It’s even taken home the title of Boulder County People’s Choice award for Best Mexican Food 12 times. They have won YS’s BOW year after year since we added Boulder in 2009.

RUNNER UP – Santo

Pump House Brewery, Longmont CO

Patio EC

Pumphouse: Pumphouse was a pioneer, one of the first to open on Main Street with an eye on the future. That vision has proven to be a good one, since 1996 the Pumphouse is usually packed. Daily deals on things like Bloody Marys, hard teas, and margaritas keep locals coming back throughout the week. The atmosphere is also another appeal, with decor harkening back to mythical firehouse days (it was never a fire station) the building itself is well over 100 years old.

RUNNER UP – Birdhouse

West End Tavern, Boulder CO

Patio Boulder

West End Tavern: Incredible BBQ platters, numerous local awards, acceptance of everyone, and incredible views of the nearby peaks all draw readers to West End Tavern. Known for their wings, in fact, over 100 people have completed their “Winginator Challenge,” the sides are nothing to scoff at either

RUNNER UP – Rosetta Hall

Piripi, Erie CO

Lunch EC

Piripi: Piripi brings European, specifically Spanish, influences to Colorado. Sometimes overshadowed by other nearby cuisines — French and Italian — Spanish food and international influences have made their mark on Erie, and our readers, yet again. The children’s playroom is a unique idea for parents who want a night (or lunch) out, and still enjoy the elegance Piripi offers. 

RUNNER UP – Jeannot’s Patisserie & Bistro

SALT, Boulder CO

Lunch Boulder

SALT the Bistro: Farm to table lunch? Planning a baby shower? Beignets, bolognese, and brunch? There’s one answer to all these questions, and it’s SALT the Bistro. From private events to sustainable lunches and gluten-free choices, SALT does everything well, which is so incredibly rare.

RUNNER UP – Raglin Market

Snarf’s Sandwiches, Multiple Locations

Sandwich EC & Boulder

Snarfs: Snarf’s reigns Sandwich Supreme, once again taking this category in a landslide. People love sandwiches, and there were so many good contenders in this race, it’s just people really love Snarf’s toasted sandwiches, which are called Snarfies. 

RUNNER UP (EC) – Stacy’s Kitchen

RUNNER UP (B) – Organic Sandwich Co

Reelfish Fish & Chips, Lafayette CO

Seafood EC

Reelfish Fish & Chips: You might love Reelfish now, but wait until you see the changes owner Dimas Asevedo and Chef Justin Richardson have in store for you. Chef Justin says he just loves to prepare foods that satisfy the community. Watch for his ever-growing menu additions!

RUNNER UP – Piripi

Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar

Seafood Boulder

JAX Seafood: There was this time our publisher went on a date at Jax Seafood and she ate three dozen oysters. Poor fella. If it swims in the ocean Jax will give you the satisfaction you crave, even if its all oysters. 

RUNNER UP – Spruce Farm & Fish

Urban Field Pizza, Longmont and Boulder CO

Pizza EC

Urban Field: A newcomer to the community, winning YS Best of the West is not their first award. These folks have taken the town by storm already racking up local and national awards, including placing 7th in the 2023 International Pizza Competition in Las Vegas. But it’s not just their pizza that will take satisfy you. Their chef-driven menu takes a unique interpretation of their favorite dishes. And while your there be sure to check out their pantry.

RUNNER UP – Westbound & Down

The Sink, Boulder CO

Pizza Boulder

The Sink: You do not make it to 100 years as a restaurant and bar without becoming an absolutely beloved institution. From celebrity visits to raucous college nights and incredible pizza, The Sink represents the best of “Old Boulder.” They are a perennial winner and again take home first place in a landslide.

RUNNER UP – Cosmos

740 Front St, Boulder CO

Steak EC

740 Front St: 740 Front is one of Colorado’s two oldest bars, the oldest ongoing tavern license in the state, and to the community, a priceless treasure steeped in memory and local lore. 740 Front is the last remaining saloon of the original thirteen that lined the 3-block strip of Front Street.” That bit of history is from the website. But the steaks and seafood reign supreme here as well, which might be why they have a 4.3 score by visitors. 

RUNNER UP – Law’s Chophouse

Boulder Cork, Boulder CO

Steak Boulder

The Cork: Quite simply, The Cork is the quintessential perfect restaurant. Their steaks and prime rib are their signature dishes, and naturally, they are perfect, too.

RUNNER UP – 316 Steakhouse

Sakura Japanese Restaurant, Longmont CO

Sushi/Japanese EC

Sakura: Kho and Mindy opened Sakura the year before YS started. Our publisher first discovered Sakura while out on yet another date. She has been a loyal customer since. Truly authentic Japanese cuisine and in her words, the best sushi you can find. Check out Kho’s special creations, they will delight. She likes them so much she just tells Kho to make her whatever he wants.

RUNNER UP – Kenny Lou’s at Button Rock

Hapa Sushi, Multiple Locations

Sushi/Japanese Boulder

Hapa: Fun, funky and everyone’s favorite. Hapa takes a unique twist with their Hawaiian style sushi and Japanese cuisine but the ambiance and service will blow you away as much as the specialties. 

RUNNER UP – Japango

Busaba Thai Restaurant, Louisville, Boulder and Erie CO (Longmont coming soon)

Thai EC

Busaba: Everyone loves Busaba. If you have ever been to Thailand, you will see why. Truly authentic Thai recipes made Thai style, not American. The Louisville location has a line every weekend, and their success has led to opening Boulder and Erie locations, with Longmont coming this year. 

RUNNER UP – Thai Kitchen

Aloy Thai, Boulder CO

Thai Boulder

Aloy Thai: Mom and daughters as chefs, real spice and flavor, there’s even a write-up on the Food Network website! Loy Thai is where it’s at for the real deal, bringing Bangkok to Boulder

RUNNER UP – Busaba

Pho Cafe, Lafayette CO

Vietnamese EC

Pho Cafe: Large portions, vegan options, and great online reviews all point towards why readers love Pho Cafe. Come warm your soul with a bowl of Pho and taste the crisp crunch of their eggrolls.

RUNNER UP – Jennie’s Kitchen

Chez Thuy, Boulder CO

Vietnamese Boulder

Chez Thuy: Thuy has been running Chez Thuy since 1993. In their custom style, they thank the community for the good fortune they have been given to serve. John Lehndorff has called it “most successful, least-known restaurateur in the city’s dining history.” What we know is the Vietnamese cuisine is 100% authentically Thuy. 

RUNNER UP – Boulder Pho

Marco’s Hot Dog’s & Tacos, Longmont CO

Hot Dog EC

Marcos: Hotdogs might be the ultimate American street food. There are endless combinations and simple classics that always hit the spot. The sizzling hot grill is always a good sign. Want the ultimate Mexican street food? You can get delicious hotdogs and incredible tacos all in one spot. Readers love the taste and choices.

RUNNER UP – The Dugout Grill & Bar

Mustard’s Last Stand, Boulder and Denver CO

Hot Dog Boulder

Mustards Last Stand: Mustard’s Last Stand has been an icon in Denver and Boulder since 1978. If you want a true Chicago-style Hot Dog the only place you will find one as good as Mustard’s is in Chicago.

RUNNER UP – Freddie’s Hot Dog Stand

Teocalli, Lafayette and Arvada CO

Taco EC

TeoCalli: They call them street tacos, but everything TeoCalli does is modern, innovative, and fresh. Find both traditional and some really unique spins on the taco here.

RUNNER UP – Dugout

McDevitt’s Taco Supply, Boulder and Denver CO

Taco Boulder

McDevitts Taco Supply: Can tacos be soul food? At McDevitt Taco Supply they can. Readers love the authenticity, the love, and the passion tasted in every ingredient. With multiple locations, catering, and food trucks, there are numerous ways to snag a bite.

RUNNER UP – T/ACO

Morning Glory, Lafayette CO

Healthy Meal – EC

Morning Glory: It is with special honor that we write this year’s Best of the West for Morning Glory, learning that founder and chef Julie Lieb left us in 2023, daughter Lili is continuing on the legacy of melt in your mouth dishes. 

RUNNER UP(s) – Roots Restaurant & Dickens Opera House

Healthy Meal – Boulder

Thrive, Boulder CO

Thrive: Whether you are a carnivore or a plant eater, Thrive proves that you can have amazing taste, be all organic, and forego the meat for a meal. Their smoothie concoctions and soups are their signature. 

RUNNER UP – Wonderpress

Chef Hugo, Piripi, Erie CO

Chef EC

Hugo Meyer of Piripi: Chef Hugo came to Erie via Argentina with stops all over Europe and even the Caribbean, no one knew what was coming to town when Piripi opened in Erie. Now three years later, they have become well-established as a Boulder County 4-star restaurant with a 4-star chef at the helm, and very much worth the drive to Erie. 

RUNNER UP – Kevin Kidd of 24 Carrot

Chef Bradford Heap, Salt the Bistro, Boulder CO

Chef Boulder

Bradford Heap of SALT: There is not one thing Bradford does that he doesn’t do with full passion. While classically trained at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, there is nothing archetypical about Bradoford’s cuisine. Throughout his time in Boulder Bradford’s passion for what we put in our bodies and how it tastes is embodied in all that he serves. 

RUNNER UP – Eric Skokan of Bramble & Hare/Black Cat

Chocolaterie Stam, Lafayette CO

Chocolatier EC

Chocolaterie Stam: Although Valentine’s just passed, there’s no reason not to stock up on chocolate still! Stam’s offers fast delivery, multiple adorable boxes to choose from, and B2B options as well. 

RUNNER UP – Robin’s Chocolates

Chocolatier Boulder

Piece Love & Chocolate: Ever wanted to make your own chocolate? Come to a class at Piece Love & Chocolate and dive into the world of crafting your own sweets! Offering cakes, truffles, and delivery options as well, it’s hard to go wrong exploring, eating, and creating here.

RUNNER UP – Moshka

DRINKS

Erie Social Club, Erie CO

Overall Bar EC

Erie Social Club: Erie Social Club’s owners are a couple of Hawaiian-shirt-wearing, Disney-loving cozies who welcome all to their cocktail roost of warmth with everything from “barkcuteries” for the “fluffies” to “bookclub for the bibliophiles”. Peppered with fun, relevant events, you’ll find a multitude of excuses to roll in for a delicious bev. Our publisher certainly does. 

RUNNER UP – William Oliver’s

The Corner Bar, Boulder CO

Overall Bar Boulder

Corner Bar: Around since the 70’s and located in the historic Boulderado Hotel, Corner Bar provides the mob boss ambiance only a pre-2000’s establishment of worn, polished wood can. With live jazz every Friday night and a killer happy hour, this classy joint serves nostalgia with every tasty dish and pour. 

RUNNER UP – Rosetta Hall

Liquid Mechanics, Lafayette CO

Brewery EC

Liquid Mechanics: Liquid Mechanics is frequented for its personable staff and standout beer selection – brew reviews abound with “delicious” and “unique.” With different food trucks every day, a cheerful patio, pub games, and a quiet place to set up your laptop in the barrel room, this brewery is a go-to for a chill hang.

RUNNER UP – Odd 13

Mountain Sun, Southern Sun, Boulder CO

Brewery Boulder

Mountain Sun: A local classic, Mountain Sun is a freshly authentic Colorado spot for a quality bite and brew (without plastering the Colorado flag all over the walls). With an accommodating atmosphere and menu, you can bring your loudest, pickiest family members and leave feeling full, sunny, and a little crunchy.

RUNNER UP – Avery Brewing Co

Lucile’s, Multiple Locations

Bloody Mary EC

Lucile’s: Lucile’s generous Bloody Mary rendition refreshes and satiates with cajun spice and lush garnishes. Okra and a juicy, little shrimp accompany the classic olive-celery combo to check the essential Bloody Mary boxes of nuanced goodness. Added bonus: seriously delectable breakfast food to knock it down.

RUNNER UP – The Dugout Grill & Bar

Buff Restaurant, Boulder CO

Bloody Mary Boulder

The Buff: The Buff’s Tatanka (pronounced Ta-Tank-Ya) Bloody Mary should be called the Bang-for-Your-Buck Bloody Mary. This delicious doozy is served in a giant mason jar, garnished with veggies and BACON, and when ordered with an entree, the price drops from $9 to…drum roll please…$0.99. See you there for brunch, obviously.

RUNNER UP – West End Tavern

Erie Social Club, Erie CO

Happy Hour EC

Erie Social Club: Pop into this local watering hole for a happy hour of $7 cocktails — the classics ala Old Fashioned and Palomas, done right — and $5 snacks and beers. Come for the deals, stay for the friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect stop on your way home from one of those lucky, got-off-early days!

RUNNER UP – 95a Bistro & Co

The Corner Bar, Boulderado, Boulder CO

Happy Hour Boulder

Corner Bar: With a diverse selection of appetizers and cocktails, Corner Bar’s happy hour menu offers vittles off the aperitif beaten path for easy prices. Stop in on a snowy day for a cup of veggie chili and a glass of Pinot Noir in the sanctuary of one of Boulder’s oldest-standing buildings.

RUNNER UP – Jill’s Restaurant & Bistro

West Side Tavern, Longmont CO

Margarita EC

West Side Tavern: It’s no surprise that this posh spin on a classic is the brainchild of powerhouse couple Debra Heiser and Westley Isbutt, owners of West Side Tavern and creatives harkening from Vegas. Swapping lime juice for lemon and garnished with burnt sage soaked in Green Chartreuse, this margarita brings the glitz to full deliciousness.

RUNNER UP – North Side Tavern

Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant, Boulder CO

Margarita Boulder

Efrain’s: Efrain’s, a bright, charming establishment, with a pretty patio for sunny days, boasts THIRTEEN different varieties of margaritas and a lifetime of awards. They offer spicy or skinny, silver or gold, smoky or tropical – basically a marg for every palette. Anchor your buzz with a scrumptious entree and satisfaction is complete.

RUNNER UP – Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant

Spirit Hound, Lyons CO

Distillery EC

Spirit Hound: Lyon’s canine-themed distillery Spirit Hound, offers cocktails in three categories: Purebred, Off-Leash, and Dog Bowl. Visit the motorcycle repair shop turned distillery and tasting room to sample liquors distilled in their pristine all-copper pot still. Locally sourced ingredients, tours, and cocktail classes consummate Spirit Hound as a must-visit.

RUNNER UP – Abbot & Wallace

DV8, Boulder CO

Distillery Boulder

DV8 (Deviant Spirits): DV8, a self-proclaimed island of misfits, is a celebratory, queer-owned oasis of lust for life. With drag nights, DJ competitions, and stirring cocktails like A Hot Night in Bangkok (with chili-infused vodka and red curry!), DV8 provides a space for our freaky selves to let down and commune with boast-worthy booze.

RUNNER UP – Vapor

Bartender/Mixologist EC

Erie Social Club: Erie Social Club’s mixologists have a reputation for being friendly and well-versed in their trade. Patrons call out individual bartenders in their reviews – a quick scroll mentions Steven, Talon, and Jose. If you’re looking for a thoughtful drink recommendation and a welcoming atmosphere, this 3-time 2024 Bests winner is it.

RUNNER UP(s) – 24 Carrot & Piripi

Bartender/Mixologist Boulder 

Corner Bar: Racking up a third win in 2024’s Bests, Corner Bar is being celebrated for its service this time around. With local reviews that span from “made my night” to “prompt and friendly”, the kind and attentive bartenders give us yet another reason to stop in at this local classic.

RUNNER UP – The Bitter Bar

Liquor Store EC

Superior Liquor: It’s a really big store, that’s for sure.

RUNNER UP – Country Line Wine & Spirits

Hazel’s Beverage World, Boulder CO

Liquor Store Boulder

Hazel’s: For a ninth year in a row, Hazel’s wins by a landslide. With an epic selection, you can score rare, high-end items at competitive prices, plus your usual faves. Their amiable staff is accommodating to everything from large orders for parties to personalized recommendations. Hazel’s is a one-stop shop for libations.

RUNNER UP – North Boulder Liquor

Atlas Valley Purveyors, Lafayette CO

Wine Shop EC

Atlas Valley Purveyors: Atlas Valley Purveyors is more than a wine shop. Hard-to-find bottles and specialty gifts make it ideal for buying for the hosts in your life. Next time you’re planning a party, hit up the in-house grocery and butcher sections for an exceptional charcuterie. It’ll be a guaranteed hit!

RUNNER UP – Kuper Wine Bar

Boulder Wine Merchant, Boulder CO

Wine Shop Boulder

Boulder Wine Merchant: Run by master sommelier Brett Zimmerman, Boulder Wine Merchant boasts a cult following of locals. Its meticulous reputation, due to its tasteful selection and Brett’s personal relationships with wine-makers in the field, holds true. Check the website for free tasting events and featured picks that cover a generous price range.

RUNNER UP – Hazel’s

BookCliff Vineyards, Boulder and Palisade CO

Winery

BookCliff Winery: BookCliff Winery, a family enterprise, began with a former peach orchard in Palisade in 1995, and converted into a sustainable vineyard with fourteen grape varieties. The Boulder tasting room offers candle-lit dinners, classes, and a beautiful venue for parties. Visit for a relaxing wine-shopping experience or a chat with their experienced staff.

RUNNER UP – Silver Vines Winery

Entertainment

The Collective, Lafayette CO

Art Gallery EC

The Collective: Sometimes being in an art museum or gallery can be a stuffy experience. The Collective, however, fosters community and encourages everyone from students to senior memory care patient groups to visit. Referred to by one reviewer as the “gem of the community,” it’s easy to see how the gallery inspires guests with its diverse exhibits. 

RUNNER UP – Firehouse Art Gallery

Dairy Arts Center, Boulder CO

Art Gallery Boulder

Dairy Arts Center: The Dairy Arts Center has been a community staple since 1992. Guests can enjoy several free galleries that display photography, paintings, and other visual mediums by local, national, and international artists alike. Frequent visitors note that along with the exhibits, the Center’s beautiful, inviting space keeps them coming back. 

RUNNER UP – BMOCA

Nissi’s, Lafayette CO

Stage & Live Music Venue EC

Nissi’s: Come for the music, stay for the food. Seriously, one of the aspects of Nissi’s that keeps people coming back is its dishes like the Southern fried chicken strips, hummus plate, Rocky Mountain trout piccata, and more. Plus the venue’s extensive beer, wine, and cocktail list make it the perfect date night spot. 

RUNNER UP – Steinbaugh Pavillion

Stage Boulder

Glen Huntington Bandshell “Boulder Bandshell”: Not many venues can boast that they’ve brought the community music for nearly 100 years–unless it’s Boulder’s Bandshell. First built in 1938 by the Lion’s Club, concertgoers continue to flock back to this outdoor stage. Many visitors note its beautiful lights, open-sky concerts under the stars, and a rotating group of musical acts make it the perfect hangout spot. 

RUNNER UP – Daily Art’s Center

Boulder Theater, Boulder CO

Live Music Venue Boulder

Boulder Theater: The Boulder Theater is hard to miss with its large, bright art-deco sign beckoning passersby to come in. The venue has been showcasing comedians, jazz, rock, disco, movie festivals, and more for nearly 100 years. Take a step back in time, and see why concertgoers enjoy this small intimate venue with big performance energy. 

RUNNER UP –  Fox Theater

Quarters Var & Arcade, Longmont CO

Arcade EC

Quarters Bar + Arcade: Husband-and-wife duo Luke and Emily Kunselman always wanted to start an arcade bar in their hometown of Longmont. And in 2019 they opened Quarters and it has become a community staple. Customers appreciate the small but thoughtful curation of arcade games as well as the pour-your-own tap system.

RUNNER UP – Tilt!

Press Play, Boulder CO

Arcade Boulder

Press Play: Throughout the day, families can enjoy a number of kid-friendly games at Boulder’s Press Play, like Giant Jenga and Donkey Kong. However, in the evening, the venue transforms into an adult hangout. Frequent customers (and those who wished they lived closer so they could be) note that along with the games, there’s a dance floor and a full bar. 

RUNNER UP – Gateway Fun Park

Pumpkin Patch

Cottonwood Farm: Whether you have kids or not, going to a pumpkin patch and picking that all-important fall decoration is a must. Cottonwood goers note how this small, uncrowded farm offers its charm. Not to mention, parents appreciate that its entrance fees are quite reasonable. 

RUNNER UP – Rocky Mountain Pumpkin Ranch

FACE Vocal Band, Colorado

Local Celebrity EC

FACE Vocal Band: FACE formed well over a decade ago. And while some members have come and gone the group remained. Today, you can find them touring around the world and performing 100 shows a year. But of course, this Boulder group makes time to perform for the fans at home, captivating audiences with their sophisticated yet fun beats.

RUNNER UP – Chef Hugo

Celebrity Boulder

Deion Sanders “Coach Prime”: Already a legend in the sports world, Coach Prime shocked many by choosing to come to CU Boulder. His multiple Superbowl rings and reputation as a playmaker and showboater earned him admiration and derision alike in his playing days (depending if he was on your team or not!) but everyone loves him now.

RUNNER UP – Ralphie 

Longmont Museum, Longmont CO

Museum EC

Longmont Museum: The museum started as a humble display in a carriage house back in 1940. But it has since grown to encompass an 11,000-square-foot facility with plans to expand. While it offers several art displays, the history section is not to be missed. In it, you’ll find 17,000 artifacts, 10,000 historical photos, and a greater understanding of the Centennial State.

RUNNER UP – Lafayette History Museum

Museum of Boulder, Boulder CO

Museum Boulder

Museum of Boulder: Museumgoers note that this is the perfect spot for locals and travelers alike to get to know Boulder better. In 1944, the Boulder Historical Society committed to preserving the area’s artifacts and stories. It grew from occupying the second floor of a schoolhouse into a downtown facility with an annual $1 million budget. 

RUNNER UP – University of Colorado, Boulder Museum of Natural History

Longmont Theatre, Longmont CO

Theater  EC

Longmont Theater Co.: Theater can be hit or miss. But attendees continuously note the Longmont Theater Co. consistently puts on fantastic plays with high-quality production value that keeps them coming back. Not to mention, many note the ticket prices are quite reasonable. 

RUNNER UP –  Arts Hub

Theater Boulder

Dairy Arts Center: If you’re a fan of ballet, plays, contemporary dance, and other performing arts, then Dairy Arts Center is a must-visit. Along with thought-provoking performances, guests also note that the theater has excellent acoustics, comfortable seats (which is not always a guarantee), and delicious snacks.

RUNNER UP –  Local Theater Company

Lafayette Music Fest, Multiple Locations throughout Lafayette CO

Festival EC

Lafayette Music Fest: There’s no shortage of musical artists in the Centennial State. And in 2022, the nonprofit Rock for the People decided to gather them all in one place at the Lafayette Music Fest. Two years later, concertgoers can enjoy multiple stages across different venues. Not to mention tickets have clocked in at past events for under $40. 

RUNNER UP –  Erie Pride & Juneteenth by Being Better Neighbors

Boulder Creek Festival, Boulder CO, www.bouldercreekfest.com

Festival Boulder

Boulder Creek Festival: It seems prices everywhere continue to creep (or skyrocket) up and up. But Boulder Creek Festival offers 30-plus local bands across three stages completely free of charge. Not to mention, it’s also jam-packed with kid-friendly concerts and games. But of course, if you want to escape from the family for a bit, purchase tickets to the beer festival.

RUNNER UP –  Bluebird Music Festival

Health & Beauty

Blue Skies Massage & Wellness, Longmont CO

Day Spa EC

Blue Skies Massage & Wellness: Blue Skies has built up a regular clientele, which is due in large part to their staff taking the time to help customers find the best treatment option. Additionally, many spagoers note that they feel taken care of from the moment they arrive until they leave. 

RUNNER UP –  Body Bar

St. Julien Hotel & Spa, Boulder CO

Day Spa Boulder

St. Julien Hotel & Spa: Sometimes, a 30-minute massage just isn’t enough. Thankfully, St. Julien is the perfect weekend getaway. A community staple for nearly two decades, guests praise the highly attentive and friendly staff as well as the amenities offered like the sauna, steam room, and more. Of course, if you can’t make a weekend out of it, you can pop in for a quick massage or facial. 

RUNNER UP –  Dragontree

Blue Skies Massage & Wellness, Longmont CO

Facial EC

Blue Skies Massage & Wellness: Guests note that staff takes the time to get to know your skin type to recommend the best treatment. Additionally, Blue Skies also offers full facials specifically geared towards men and teenagers, meaning anyone can enjoy some well-deserved rest and relaxation. 

RUNNER UP –  Smooth Intentions 

Dragontree Holistic Day Spa, Boulder CO

Facial Boulder

Facial B (tie) – St. Julien Hotel & Spa

Dragontree: Guests note that the serene and tranquil vibe makes relaxing easy while taking advantage of their facials, which range from classic to ayurvedic options. Those who have gone to treat themselves at Dragontree also note that the staff is willing to help without pressuring you into treatments, which is very much appreciated.

St. Julien Hotel & Spa: St. Julien’s location and quiet campus allow one to truly step outside the hustle and bustle for a bit. Additionally, their facial options run the gamut in terms of treatment type, price, and time, so there’s something for everyone. 

RUNNER UP –  Alchemy Face Bar

Maven Hair Studio, Lafayette CO

Salon EC

Maven Hair Studio: One of the first upscale salons to open in East County Maven’s owner Laura, has been creating hair creations for 25 years. This particular review captured our attention; I LOVE this place! Laura is an amazing colorist and hair stylist…She set my hair free!

RUNNER UP –  95th St. Salon

Voodoo Hair Lounge: Voodoo is an artistic, community-oriented salon that’s known for its precision and talented stylists. In addition to providing unforgettable styles, this business diverts 93% of its waste through composting and recycling. Voodoo aren’t just good stewards of the environment, they are community partners.

RUNNER UP –  Twig Salon

Woodward Barbers, Erie CO

Barber EC

Woodward Barbers: An old-time classic in a new-time kind of town. Woodward Barbers is a classic barbershop that operates with finesse and attention to detail. Clients love this location because of its laid-back, comfortable atmosphere and endless supply of snacks.

RUNNER UP – Thunderbird Barbers

Hennepin Barber, Boulder CO

Barber Boulder

Hennepin Barbers: Head to South Boulder to snag an appointment with one of Hennepin’s top-notch barbers. An artistic shop with luxurious vibes and great background music, clients can expect a leisurely experience due to the appointment-based structure. However, shop owner Ben still runs his barber shop with a small-town feel.

RUNNER UP –  The Boulder Barbers

Siam Sensation, Longmont and Boulder CO

Massage EC

Siam Sensation: Not the first win for Siam Sensation, this multi-time winner provides a great massage that takes walk-in appointments and delivers the finest Thai massage in the county. But they offer both traditional Thai massages and mixed massages that prioritize opening the body to provide long-term relief. If you want to feel better this is a great place to book an appointment

RUNNER UP –  Blooming Massage

Moving Mountains Massage, Boulder CO

Massage Boulder

Moving Mountains Massage: Moving Mountains specializes in injury healing and stress relief through the medium of massage. But it’s Jesse’s skilled hands that make the difference. The fifth time that it’s topped the Best of the West charts, while it’s another feather in the cap for their business, it’s a win for your sore body. 

RUNNER UP –  Siam Sensation

95th St Salon, Lafayette CO

Manicure/Pedicure EC

95th Street Salon: When 95th St Salon opened it was not much more than a place to get a haircut. But the last twenty years have changed in our County and 95th has changed with it. Today it’s a full-service Aveda salon and spa that also does great nails.

RUNNER UP –  She Nails, Erie

J Lounge, Boulder CO

Manicure/Pedicure Boulder

J Lounge: Walking into J Lounge feels like you’ve entered into a contemporary, slightly elevated spa. The personable staff members make it many clients’ go-to location for manicures and pedicures in Boulder. 

RUNNER UP –  Contempo Nails

Valar-Aesthetics, Erie CO

Medi Spa (Medical Treatments) EC

Valar Aesthetics: A knowledgeable industry-leading staff goes a long way in the medical treatment industry, and that’s a quality that Valar Aesthetics provides. This team is beloved by the community for its sensitivity and personal charm. Unlike some businesses, Valar isn’t trying to sell a product. Instead, it focuses on client care and the relationships created.

Rinnova Skin & Body, Boulder CO

Medi Spa (Medical Treatments) EC

Rinnova Skin & Body: What’s better than temporary skin treatments? Treatments that are designed to provide lasting results for clients. Rinnova emphasizes renewal, safety, and natural healing that meets the client where they are. This quality team of specialists is sensitive to your needs while emphasizing quality educational support. 

Chiropractic Center of Erie & Longmont, CO

Chiropractor EC

Chiropractic Center of Erie & Longmont: Years ago we wrote that Dr Dave has the best hands in town. With over 25 years of tending to his patients’ needs, Dr Dave has consistently won because he is a master at helping you resolve pain. They take a full-body approach that includes soft tissue and muscle work with each adjustment. They also offer cupping and dry-needling. 

RUNNER UP –  Wurth Chiro

Chiro Now!, Boulder CO

Chiropractor Boulder

Chiro Now: Located in a strip mall in Boulder, Chiro Now doesn’t exactly toot its own horn. However, locals are quick to become loyal to this team of practitioners due to their accumulative level of expertise and patient care. These chiropractors take extra steps to get to know the patient and their ailments prior to making adjustments. 

RUNNER UP –  Swan Lake Chiropractic 

Jasper Animal Hospital, Lafayette CO

Veterinarian EC

Jasper Animal Hospital

It’s usually pretty easy to determine who owns a pet and who doesn’t. So, walking into Jasper Animal Hospital is quite an experience. The hospital’s team provides full-service care while making both you and your pet feel like family. 

RUNNER UP –  Erie Animal Hospital

Arapahoe Animal Hospital, Boulder CO

Veterinarian Boulder

Arapahoe Animal Hospital: Founded in Boulder in 1954, Arapahoe Animal Hospital has been a staple business within the city for more than 75 years. In addition to treating common pets like dogs and cats, this hospital supports the treatment of exotic animals, and every creature is treated with sensitivity. This is also the place to go to acquire a hard-to-get diagnosis for your pets. 

RUNNER UP –  Rise Vet

Boulder Community Health, Multiple locations

Medical Center EC

Boulder Community Hospital Erie/Lafayette: Boulder Community Hospital is best known for its expertise in the treatment of strokes, heart conditions, and neural conditions. While many hospital visits come with long wait times, BCH is quick, and efficient, making it easier to receive the care you need. 

RUNNER UP –   Strive Direct Health

Boulder Medical Center, Boulder CO

Medical Center Boulder

Boulder Medical Center: Boulder Medical Center makes patient care simple by accepting most insurance networks and simplifying the onboarding process. The center’s staff are friendly, and kind. And the facility, itself, is a multi-practice location which makes it easy to address all of your needs at once. 

RUNNER UP – Kaiser Permanente Baseline Medical Offices

Hospital EC

Good Samaritan Hospital: Lafayette’s Good Samaritan Hospital provides comprehensive care, but its pediatric center goes above and beyond the call of duty to support mothers and children. The facility contains a “Nook” or an area where new moms can go to get comfortable and bond with their baby. 

RUNNER UP – Longmont United Hospital

Hospital Boulder

Boulder Community Hospital: With more than 400 physicians practicing within the Boulder Community Hospital network, it’s no wonder why so many patients find the care they need. And the Boulder location is known for its outpatient care, which makes clients feel comfortable and supported on their medical journey.  BCH has been caring for people in Boulder since 1922, and for East County since the early 2000’s, but their practical approach to medical care has made them one of the best. 

Dentist EC

Dr. Greg Keene, Keene Smiles, Lafayette CO

Keene Smiles: This office has a loyal client base for a reason. First, it’s one of the last locally owned and operated dental offices. Dr. Keene approaches dentistry with sensitivity and kindness. In addition to providing world-class care, he also offers a membership option to those who don’t have health insurance, demonstrating his support of the Lafayette community. 

RUNNER UP – Brian Cope of Cope Family Dental

Dr. Colleen Kimball Bullard, Folsom Family Dental, Boulder CO

Dentist Boulder

Folsom Family Dentistry: While many dentistry businesses prioritize symptom management, Folsom Family Dentistry emphasizes preventative care for the whole family. What also throws this office into the spotlight is the laid-back, relaxed atmosphere. 

RUNNER UP – Gunbarrel Family Dentistry

Doctor EC

Dr. Brown – Strive Direct Health: Dr. Brown commands respect as soon as he walks into the room – and it’s not just because of his 6”7 stature. His knowledge, personality, and dedication to the person he treats make him a giant fixture in the Erie community. Booking appointments and getting in to see Dr. Brown makes it easy to prioritize your own health. 

RUNNER UP – Dr Bauer – Valar Family Medicine

Doctor Boulder

Dr. Carl Moritz – Crossroads Medical Center: Dr. Carl Moritz founded Crossroads Medical Center more than 25 years ago, and quickly established himself as an independent, personal physician in the region. Today, his business is one of the few that remains small enough to provide wholesome, ground-up care. 

RUNNER UP – Dr. Christa Ambrose – Clinica

Shopping

Brown’s Shoe Store, Longmont CO

Shoe Store EC

Browns: Brown’s Shoes in Longmont is what is called a Legacy business. After all, they have been serving locals since 1949. They have stayed in step with time and you will always find the latest in footwear in stock.

RUNNER UP – Jax Ranch and Home

Two Sole Sisters, Boulder CO

Shoe Store Boulder

Two Sole Sisters: Need some sass and beauty in your life? Try the beautiful, sassy styles at Two Sole Sisters. Embrace every season’s beauty from comfy sandals to waterproof boots–your feet won’t just do the walking; they will do the talking, too.

RUNNER UP – Pedestrian

Carbon Valley Eyecare, Frederick CO

Eyewear EC

Carbon Valley Eye Care: When Carbon Valley Eye Care opened the largest optometrist practice in the North Metro area, we kind of thought they were nuts for building out East. But their incredible selection and earned reputation for specialty eye care have made them a BOW winner year after year since opening.

RUNNER UP – Eyecare Center for Northern Colorado

Envision, Boulder CO

Eyewear Boulder

Envision: Since 1966 Envision Eyewear has been helping Boulderites see up the mountain and down the road. Their reviews tell you why they have been a local favorite all these years.  

RUNNER UP – Tom’s Sportique Eyewear

Eric Olson, Louisville CO

Jewelry EC

Eric Olson: One of two Master Jewelers in Colorado, Eric Olson is a true craftsman. He is so old school, he didn’t even have a computer to check you until a couple of years ago. That is because he is focused on the art of how to adorn us.

RUNNER UP –  Thalken

Hurdles Jewelry, Boulder CO

Jewelry Boulder

Hurdles Jewelry: The oldest store on Pearl Street and known to be a downtown treasure, Hurdles Jewelry is a first-generation, family-owned business that opened in 1947. They win year after year because year after year, they are true to their community with the highest quality and personalized service. 

RUNNER UP – Walters & Hogsett 

Ivy Rose, Longmont CO

Fashion Boutique for Women EC

Ivy Rose: For a long time East County folks had to drive to Boulder or Denver to go shopping. Not anymore. Main St. Longmont has become a destination for local shopping, and Ivy Rose is one of the reasons why. Always stylish clothes to adorn our bodies with but what makes the experience shopping here unique is their stylist on staff who can help you find the perfect outfit, all while keeping the prices within reach. 

RUNNER UP – Charmed 33

Apocolypse, Boulder CO

Fashion Boutique for Women Boulder

Apocalypse: Nostalgic for that vintage style? Mom jeans, oversized shirts that’ll make you smile? Apocalypse can deck you out like the Goodfellas, the 60’s hippie, or just really funky. Everything is unique here. 

RUNNER UP – Jacque Michelle

Acme Fine Goods, Louisville CO

Men’s Clothing EC

Acme Fine Goods: For the longest time, East County had very few options for men’s clothing aside from department stores at the mall. Mall no more! Acme Fine Goods has everything men want to wear. 

RUNNER UP – Jax Home & Ranch

Canoe Club, Boulder CO

Men’s Clothing Boulder

Canoe Club: With regal high-end streetwear, get pulled into a world of immaculate clothing options like nothing you’ve seen before. With polished floors and old jazzy tunes playing overhead, you will leave Canoe Club feeling like you’re in your own movie scene.

RUNNER UP – Heady Bauer

Found Underground Consignments, Louisville CO

Consignment Clothing EC

Found Underground: Funky, fun, and filled with Love, Found Underground has an eclectic mix of what to wear, all while actively supporting the LGBTQ community. 

RUNNER UP – Fabulous Finds

Rag’s Consignment, Boulder CO

Consignment Clothing Boulder

Rags Consignments: Rags is the Queen. In our 24 years, they have consistently won Best of the West just about every year. While it’s consignment shopping at Rags is like shopping new in a hip, chic environment.

RUNNER UP – Apocalypse

Downtown Longmont, CO

Shopping District EC

Downtown Longmont: Longmont is cool these days. Longmont is what Boulder was 30 years ago, a vast array of locally owned shops run by community members. And man has it changed from a sleepy farm town to a desirable downtown. All they need now is dancing at night!

RUNNER UP – Downtown Lafayette

Pearl St, Boulder CO

Shopping District Boulder

Pearl St.: A street whispering tales of old eras, known for its long history of surviving years of attempts at modernization, Pearl Street has seen it all! Immerse yourself in its timeless beauty, you’ll find yourself always coming back.

RUNNER UP – 29th St. Mall

Bookstore EC

The Read Queen: Who says print is dead? The Read Queen is proving people want books. Good books, unique books, printed reading material of all types. In addition to the cafe and bookstore they also now have a gathering space to sit and enjoy all that wonderful print (which is good for the brain too).

RUNNER UP – Barbedwire Books

Boulder Bookstore, Boulder CO

Bookstore Boulder

Boulder Bookstore: In 1977 Pearl St became a walking mall, the same year Boulder Bookstore opened. Other Pearl St Mall businesses have come and come, but Boulder Bookstore has remained a bastion of democracy and a vast resource of knowledge since where you will find over 20,000 sq ft with over 10,000 titles. 

RUNNER UP – Barnes & Noble

Florist EC

Lafayette Florist: Back in 1949 East County didn’t have a whole lot except old mining towns that were starting to shut down the mines. Lafayette Florist opened that same year as a garden haven for East County residents. A lot has changed in East County since, and Lafayette Florist has changed with it. Today you will find them at Arapahoe Rd and Hwy 287 still arranging the freshest floral bouquets you can find. 

RUNNER UP – Longmont Florist

Florist Boulder

Fiori: Fiori, meaning flower in Italian, Fiori is also fluent in the language of flowers. You will be reminded of the essence of the Italian riverside, as you celebrate joy and life-changing moments through the remnants of nature’s beauty. 

RUNNER UP – Sturtz & Copeland

Longmont Museum gift shop, Longmont CO

Kid’s Store EC

Longmont Museum: In 2023 YS covered the People’s History of BOCO & the North Metro. March 2023 was Longmont’s feature. But if you want to learn even more about this area head to Longmont Museum. However, Longmont Museum is so much more than history, you will find interactive exhibits, events, and performances all year. Longmont Museum is a central hub for Longmont culture. 

RUNNER UP – Adorn

Grandrabbit’s Toy Shoppe, Multiple Locations, CO

Kid’s Store Boulder

Grandrabbit’s Toy Shoppe: Since 1977 Grandrabbbits has been a magical and whimsy wonderland, Dive into a fantasy world of Cheshire cats and white rabbits, educational toys, and more. You will want to play as much as your kid will. 

RUNNER UP – Childish Things

Vintrey Honest Goods, Lafayette CO

Gift Shop EC

Vintrey Honest Goods: Vintrey is a family-owned, ethical shopping destination that provides gift options for everyone on your list. Toting their own brand of handmade items from India (jewelry, leather goods, and textiles), as well as sustainable brands and small-batch goods, their products are defined by an elegant simplicity. Feel-good shopping, for sure.

RUNNER UP – Timbalier

Cedar & Hyde, Boulder CO

Gift Shop Boulder

Cedar & Hyde Mercantile: The minimalist beauty of Cedar & Hyde manifests in chic clothing, elegant jewelry, and artful home goods. The owners were inspired by their own parents’ retail operation as children, and assured that “all are welcome to enter and linger.” And their loyal customers do, finding the mercantile to be a shopping sanctuary.

RUNNER UP – Bliss

Natural Goods EC

Natural Grocer / Vitamin Cottage: With a sweet, helpful staff (who will even hold your baby for you while you load up your groceries), Natural Grocers has a warm, community feel and high standards for their products. The knowledgeable employees keep the store clean and well-stocked, creating a peaceful place to shop for high-quality items.

RUNNER UP – Sprouts

Natural Goods Boulder

Sprouts: Sprouts’ friendly staff will go beyond to help you find what you need. From their beautiful produce to their affordable prices on natural brands, you can check off an entire week’s shopping list in one stop. And pop by the sandwich counter for a righteous lunch deal while you’re there! 

RUNNER UP – Nude Foods

Grocer EC

Natural Grocer / Vitamin Cottage: With a second win in Best’s 2024 lineup, Natural Grocers’ organic produce is top-notch, alongside a unique array of snacks and shelved products. They’re also the best prices on vitamins around! So stop in on your way home and let a thoughtful employee help you find what you’re looking for. 

RUNNER UP – Sprouts

Grocer Boulder

Whole Foods: Not all Whole Foods are created equal. But frequent fliers at the Boulder location note that the staff is incredibly helpful, even when it comes to hunting down the most esoteric of ingredients. Additionally, along with the huge selection of grocery staples, shoppers love browsing this location’s extensive specialty section. 

RUNNER UP – Lucky’s Market

Pet Supply EC

The Happy Beast : If you’ve ever been served an ad for the newest, healthiest dog food and immediately felt like an awful person for what you’re serving your canine, you’re not alone. But the truth is finding the best option for your dog is difficult—not to mention costly. Thankfully there’s Happy Beast. Shoppers note that the store’s friendly and knowledgeable staff help guide them to the health food that’s best for their dog and wallet. 

RUNNER UP – Dee-O-Gee

Pet Supply Boulder

PC’s Pantry: Along with offering a wide array of pet supplies at reasonable prices, PC’s also has an extensive pet bakery with dozens of special cookie options, ranging from Dawgoritos to Pup-kin cookies. Because treat culture isn’t just for the girlies. It’s easy to see why one shopper called PC’s the best pet supply store in the world. 

RUNNER UP – Only Natural Pet

Furn Consignment, Broomfield CO

Consignment and Re-Used Furniture EC

Furn Consignment: Skip IKEA cookie-cutter furniture and decorate your home with pieces that reflect your taste. Furn shoppers note that the furniture is beautiful, well-made, and (perhaps most importantly) reasonably priced. The owners are committed to uplifting local artists. And whatever doesn’t sell is donated to charities like the local African Community Center. 

RUNNER UP – Fabulous Find

The Amazing Garage Sale, Boulder CO

Consignment and Reused Furniture Boulder

The Amazing Garage Sale: This isn’t your neighbor’s garage sale. Customers keep coming back to this Boulder staple to browse its wide array of photographs, eclectic jewelry, furniture, sculptures, and more. There’s always something new to find and the prices are quite reasonable. 

RUNNER UP – Glenwood Wildlife Thrift Store

Quilter’s Corner, Erie CO

Quilting EC

Quilter’s Corner: One customer notes she walked into Quilter’s Corner looking for buttons and left with the supplies to start a whole new hobby. Indeed, shoppers note that Quilter’s friendly staff, classes, and open sewing spaces keep them inspired and coming back. 

RUNNER UP – The Presser Foot

Elfriede’s Fine Fabrics & Quilting, Boulder CO

Quilting Boulder

Elfriede’s Fine Fabrics & Quilting: One shopper called Elfriede’s a 40-carat diamond. Indeed, this quilting hotspot has been a community staple for 50 years. Customers note that its huge selection of fabrics, wool, garments, and other clothes is unmatched. 

RUNNER UP – Art Parts

Little Horse Vintage, Louisville CO

Record Store EC

Little Horse Vintage: Books and music in one place? Hell yeah. Customers say walking into Little Horse is like walking into a time machine. A community staple since 2001, this spot offers an eclectic collection of vintage books, records, and other trinkets. Not sure about the record? You can try it before you buy it by listening to it in the shop’s decked-out music closet. 

RUNNER UP – Absolute Vinyl

Paradise Found Records & Music, Boulder CO

Record Store Boulder

Paradise Found Records & Music: Paradise has existed in a few different forms and under a few different owners for years. But the shop’s current owner, Will Paradise, had been a longtime customer before buying it in 2016. Customers love the eclectic mix of old, new, and used records for reasonable prices. 

RUNNER UP – Beat Bookshop

Monkton Guitars, Broomfield CO

Musical Instruments EC

Monkton Guitars: Most shops start as a brick-and-mortar and then transition into an online shop. But Monkton began as an online store in 1989 and eventually opened its physical location in 2019. Shoppers love the Monkton’s fair prices and knowledgeable staff who are ready to answer questions without being overbearing. But what locals love is just coming in and jamming with the owner. 

RUNNER UP – Guitar Hut

HB Woodsong’s, Boulder CO

Musical Instruments Boulder

HB Woodsongs: HB Woodsongs is not just a big part of the music community, they are a Boulder icon. Along with an exceptionally helpful staff, the shop’s classes and open jam sessions help students of all levels hone their skills and connect with fellow musicians since 1971. 

RUNNER UP – Boulder Drum Shop

Cannabis EC

Complete Releaf: Customers note how Herbal Wellness has a thoughtfully selected but wide array of products to choose from. Staff are friendly and eager to answer questions. Plus, they have a large selection of artisan glassware. 

RUNNER UP – Terrapin Care Station

Cannabis Boulder

Native Roots: Go just about anywhere in Colorado, throw a rock, and you’ll probably hit a Native Roots dispensary. Seriously, they are everywhere (but please don’t actually do that). One can guess that’s due in part to the chain’s friendly and knowledgeable staff who meet you where you’re at with your cannabis knowledge without being condescending. 

RUNNER UP – Elements Boulder

Tattoo Shop EC

Main Street Tattoo: Sometimes, dealing with artists and staff at a tattoo shop can be a rushed and stressful experience. Definitely, not what you want when you’re about to permanently draw on your body. However, customers appreciate Main Street’s conscientious staff who will sit down with you, talk out your ideas, and come up with a design you’re happy with. 

RUNNER UP – Inksmith

Tattoo Shop Boulder

Bolder Ink: Walk into the oldest tattoo shop in Boulder and you’ll instantly feel the laid-back, friendly vibe. In other words, the perfect atmosphere for a tattoo. Customers have written they make special trips from outside of the state to Boulder Ink for a new tattoo.

RUNNER UP – Rising Tide Tattoo

HOME & HOOD SERVICES

Downtown Lafayette, CO

Old Town EC

Downtown Lafayette: Lafayette may be a small suburb, but it’s making a name for itself with the pioneering affordable housing initiatives most of us need in this economy.  Downtown Lafayette not only appeals to residents enjoying a quieter life but also for college students and millennials looking for a good restaurant for studying or brunch. 

RUNNER UP – Downtown Erie

Old Town Boulder

Mapleton Hill Historic District: Often considered one of Boulder’s poshest neighborhoods, it’s a treat for those who love to see elaborate and historic homes. The neighborhood is home to The Squires-Tourtellot house, constructed in 1865, which is believed to be the oldest house in Boulder. 

RUNNER UP – Pearl St

Callahan House, Old Town Longmont CO

Neighborhood EC

Downtown Longmont: Downtown Longmont has the downtown charm but with enough restaurant and shop options that fill every need. Aside from business establishments, downtown Longmont also hosts plenty of music and social events on the downtown streets. 

RUNNER UP – Indian Peaks

NOBO, Boulder CO

Neighborhood Boulder

NOBO Art District: Reigning champ from last year’s BOW, NoBo art district continues to be a fan favorite with the art enrichment opportunities it offers to the art lovers and artists in Boulder. Hosting art events like art exhibits, NoBo is a community-focused, grassroots organization.

RUNNER UP – Mapleton Hill

Furniture EC

Living Spaces Denver: Grab a soft pretzel from the Living Spaces Cafe and shop for quality furniture pieces at the Thornton store location. Want to shop from home? Customize your furniture pieces online. 

RUNNER UP – Woodley’s

Furniture Boulder

Boulder Furniture and Mattress: Started in 1999 by a CU business grad, feel cozy not only about your high-quality furniture purchase but that you’re supporting a local family business. Owner Cary Schram advertises that love and his relationship with customers as the most important approach to business. 

RUNNER UP – Arhaus 

Lottie Lane, Erie CO

Home Furnishing EC

Lottie Lane Erie: Taking the title again, Lottie Lane in Erie offers customers unique home decor pieces that you won’t find in many other homes while supporting a local realtor turned business owner. 

RUNNER UP – Due South

Proud House Studio, Boulder CO

Home Furnishing Boulder

Proud House Studio: Owner Megan doesn’t stop at the design drawing board. With an understanding in the construction process, she will oversee the plan to completion. A solo world traveler, Megan seeks creative inspiration from traveling the globe. 

RUNNER UP – Boulder Furniture Arts

Budget Home Supply, Longmont CO

Home Improvement EC

Budget Home Supply: Budget Home Supply has supported local non-profits like Habitat for Humanity and The Our Center since the beginning. They’ve even worked with hundreds of Boy and Eagle Scouts assisting them with supplies to complete their projects. Locally owned since 1984.

RUNNER UP – Ace Hardware

McGuckin Hardware, Boulder CO

Home Improvement Boulder

McGuckin Hardware: What’s more Colorado than allowing dogs at your establishment? At fan favorite McGuckin Hardware Boulder loves dogs so they let dogs in on the experience. With wholesome community touches like Nancy the harpist who plays during the holidays, it’s not surprising they often win this category.

RUNNER UP – Table Mesa Hardware

Outdoor Craftsman, Erie CO

Landscaper EC

Outdoor Craftsmen: Outdoor Craftsmen delivers clean modern twists on your English garden design with a sensitivity to the ecologically tricky nature of landscaping in Colorado. With modern eastern design inspiration, Outdoor Craftsmen can help create a real-life Rockies zen garden.

RUNNER UP – Wild Heritage Garden & Design

One Earth Landscape, Boulder CO

Landscaper Boulder

One Earth Landscapes: One Earth Landscape isn’t just any old landscape service. Founder and owner Jim Zarka not only boasts over three decades of experience, but he also holds a degree in landscape architecture, plus a strong resume of wide-ranging experience from academia, the Glasshouse of Boulder,  to Parks and Rec departments, which is why Boulder readers trust One Earth above all others.

RUNNER UP – Matrix Gardens

The Fowler Group, Boulder County CO

Realtor EC

Brie Fowler at the Fowler Group: Clients describe Brie Fowler the way one describes a trusted friend. She eases anxiety in the home-buying process, always has time for her clients, and is patient and accommodating to their particularities. A breadth of knowledge, handed down through Colorado generations, only adds a job done well to her just-plain-nice-to-be-around-ness. 

RUNNER UP – Paul Dart

Realtor Boulder

Arn Rasker-Sotheby’s: Arn is a Renaissance man, fluent in three languages, with a background in design and engineering. Often involved in unique properties, his varied and valuable credentials shine through in his work. Described as trustworthy, knowledgeable, and a great listener, his clients are in capable (and interesting!) hands.

RUNNER UP – Dena Schlutz- Estate Professionals

Plumber EC

Colorado Green Plumbing: Pulling this category by a landslide, Colorado Green Plumbing has a reputation for being fair, honest, and showing up promptly for same-day calls. When you add reasonable pricing and good work to that list (plus some free maintenance advice), well then you’ve just defined “perfect plumber.”

RUNNER UP – Around The Clog

Plumber Boulder

Mesa Plumbing: The folks at Mesa Plumbing are patient, and timely, and communicate clearly while providing quality service. They even tend to check in later to make sure everything’s still going well. It’s like your supportive dad came over to take care of it for you, but you insisted on paying him. 

RUNNER UP – Colorado Green Plumbing

Contractor EC

Silver Contracting, Boulder County CO

Silver Contracting: Drawing repeat customers due to quick work producing gorgeous results, Silver Contracting puts up interesting, freshly-designed builds. Customers describe the process as smooth, even “fun” – the rarest of contractor descriptors. Whether it’s a meticulous reno on a historical home or an out-of-the-box new build, they got you.

RUNNER UP – BC Home Services

Cottonwood Home Builders, Boulder County CO

Contractor Boulder

Cottonwood Custom Home Builders: Cottonwood’s creative, custom homes are stunners. Their impressive work spans from modern builds to green remodels. Customers praise their timeliness, attention to detail, and a tendency to land on budget – or under! Advocating for their clients and adapting to new technologies, these guys nail the journey and the destination. 

RUNNER UP – Melton

Reinholt Tree Care, Boulder County CO

Reinholt: Reinholt handles it. Prompt, affordable, and tidy, they’re honest and won’t recommend unneeded work. The pruning they provide is thoughtfully done – even artful! And they’re not just aesthetically accommodating; they’ll leave wood chips behind if you want to skip the haul to the garden center for mulch this spring.

RUNNER UP – St Vrain Arbor Care

Berkelhammer Tree Experts, Boulder County CO

Tree Service Boulder

Berkelhammer: This team of conscientious trimmers has a decades-long reputation for thoroughness – considering environmental impact (the bees!), safety, cleanliness, and friendliness. Their loyal customers come back for Berkelhammer’s accommodating attitude and expertise in pruning – for tree health and beauty. With good prices and an honest team, you’re all set.

RUNNER UP – Blue River Forestry

Stan’s Automotive, Lafayette CO

Auto Repair EC

Stan’s Automotive: Stan’s is the elusive auto shop that is steadfastly honest and communicates clearly. They even have short videos on their site to help you understand service choices, like replacing an air filter or brake fluid. Amenable to customers’ schedules and budgets, this family operation has had a faithful following since 1973. 

RUNNER UP – Grease Diva Garage

Pellman’s Automotive, Boulder CO

Auto Repair Boulder

Pellman’s Automotive: Pellman’s is all about customer care. Clients’ stories report exceptional service: they don’t always charge for small, surprise issues, they follow up, and they even leave space in their schedule for emergencies. From the pup in the front office to the affordable prices on your way out, they’re your honest, hometown automotive.

RUNNER UP – Hoshi Motors

Attorney EC

 Gstalder Louisville Law Firm: With three decades of experience in non-profit, dispute, and business law (to name a few), John Gstalder and the Louisville Law Group braid their knowledge and efficiency with a compassion that brings real understanding to the table. Clients appreciate their willingness to help in a crisis and their affordable rates.

RUNNER UP – Bagley Law Firm

Attorney Boulder

Frascona Joiner Goodman & Greenstein PC: Responsive and prepared to work under a time crunch, FG&G PC prioritizes their client’s needs in a real way. Keeping humanity at the forefront, they’re good listeners who are willing to dive into complex cases, making sure that nothing slips through the cracks. With efficiency and care, they ease clients’ anxiety.

RUNNER UP – The Moorhead Law Group

Glass

Slade Glass: Slade Glass is prepared to work with tricky fixes that others won’t. Their quick turn-around and clear communication work to create a stress-free project or repair. Prepared to fit emergencies into a busy schedule, they can tackle your glass needs from storefront windows to shower doors. Just give em a call!

RUNNER UP – Hillcrest Glass

Elevations Credit Union, Multiple Locations

Bank/Credit Union

Elevations: Elevations is known for going out of their way to help clients in a pinch. Diane Sawyer, in particular, who helps guide clients through loan decisions, is heralded as one of the best bankers in the area. Personable and professional, she’s there to walk you through otherwise tough and complicated decisions.

RUNNER UP – Premier Members CU

Fisher Honda-Acura, Boulder CO

Car Dealership 

Fisher Honda-Acura: Quoted as offering “the most pleasant car-buying experience”, Fisher Honda Acura has a speedy response time and can work patiently with any budget or schedule. They understand that a reliable car is often a pressing need, and they’re here to make that process seamless for their customers.

RUNNER UP – Boulder Toyota

Sister Carmen, Lafayette CO

Nonprofit EC

Sister Carmen: Sister Carmen Community Center’s roots harken to the 70’s in the humanitarian work of a nun with a heart for the community. A non-religious nonprofit, they provide access to health resources, housing connections, support groups, and advocacy for those struggling economically. Where there is a need, there is Sister Carmen.

RUNNER UP – Longmont Humane Society

EFAA (Emergency Family Assistance Association), Boulder CO

Nonprofit Boulder

EFAA: The Emergency Family Assistance Association steps in when situations are dire, keeping struggling families in the community from drowning in hardship. Among other invaluable resources, they offer a food bank, financial assistance, housing, and after-school kids’ programs, making a felt difference daily.

RUNNER UP – Growing Up Boulder

Congressman Joe Neguse, Boulder County CO

Politician

Joe Neguse: Congressman Joe Neguse made history in 2018 when he became the first Black member of Congress in Colorado. He was ranked among the top ten most effective lawmakers in Congress and has been recognized for his bipartisanship. The son of Eritrean immigrants, Joe works to expand opportunities for ALL Americans.

RUNNER UP – Mayor Justin Brooks

Barry Snyder, Fruitsticker Artist, Erie CO

Artist EC

Barry Wildman: Barry “Wildman” Snyder is known locally and internationally for his food sticker mosaic art. Upcycling the most forgettable trash into compelling, highly-elevated works of art, he creates unforgettable pieces that allow us to dream of a more vivid, sustainable world.

Angie Nordstrum, Boulder CO

Artist Boulder

Angie Nordstrom: Angie Nordstrum is a vibrant, inspiring muralist with a heart for the homeless. Through her generous spirit (not to mention, her killer smile) and art that feels quintessentially Coloradan, she brings a bright light to the streets of Boulder and beyond.

Kids & Education

Place to Play with the Kids EC

Lafayette Splash Pad: There’s nothing better than a free spot that can also entertain your kids for hours. The outdoor splash pad located in the festival plaza runs from Memorial to Labor Day weekends. 

RUNNER UP – Wow! Museum

Place to Play with the Kids Boulder

Valmont Skate Park, Boulder CO

Valmont Skate Park: Resembling the surface of the moon, a kidney, or a mitochondria cell, Valmont Skatepark is a free, 11,000-square-foot concrete skatepark with features to polish up your skate skills. 

RUNNER UP – ABC Kids Climbing

Dawson School, Lafayette CO

Private School EC

Dawson School: Lafayette’s Dawson School boasts a 100 percent college acceptance rate and more than six million dollars in merit scholarships among its alumni. With well-rounded offerings, multiple sports teams have qualified for CHSAA State Playoffs among music and academic accolades. 

RUNNER UP – Aspen Ridge Prepatory School

Private School Boulder

Boulder Valley Waldorf School, Niwot CO

Boulder Valley Waldorf School: What’s more Boulder than a Waldorf school? The 38-acre Niwot campus supports the growth of students, parents, and teachers while fostering a reverence for nature and environmental stewardship through the dreamy natural setting of the school. 

RUNNER UP – Friends School Boulder

Centaurus High School, Lafayette CO

Public School EC

Centaurus: Centaurus High School is a small town school offering big school programs like a unique pre-engineering program and I.B. and A.P. courses. The school is ranked #55 among Colorado high schools.

RUNNER UP – Erie High School

Boulder High School, Boulder CO

Public School Boulder

Boulder High School: Historically Boulder High School has been known as the funky, free-spirited school with a reputation for political activism. Located in a fun downtown location for students looking to be plugged into the city, Boulder High School was the first high school in Colorado. 

RUNNER UP – Horizons K-8

Square State Skate, Boulder County CO

Summer Camp EC

Square State Skate: Want to start early on getting your child on track to becoming a skateboarding star? Square State Skate School provides skateboard education and guidance for children of all ages while emphasizing the kids, not the tricks. Fun fact, founder Brian Ball, worked at YS in the early days!

RUNNER UP – School of Rock

Renaissance Adventures, Boulder CO and beyond

Summer Camp Boulder

Renaissance Adventures: There are worse characters for your child role-play than the chivalrous knight. Renaissance Adventures offers live-action role-playing programs throughout the year teaching lessons beyond just sword fighting and becoming heroes of a mythic quest. 

RUNNER UP – Avid 4 Adventure

School of Rock mural, Broomfield CO

Music School EC

School of Rock Broomfield: From James Brown, White Stripes and Green Day students of School of Rock Broomfield are covering the heavy hitters. Plugging in young and adult musicians into live music settings, the School of Rock teaches individual lessons and offers group band practices. 

RUNNER UP – Center for Musical Arts

Harmony House Music, Boulder CO

Music School Boulder

Harmony Music House: Get a private music lesson or get plugged into the bluegrass, teen rock, or jazz scenes by joining an ensemble. Harmony also can set up, repair, or restore your beloved instrument.

RUNNER UP – HB Woodsongs Teaching Studios 

Sports

Louisville Cyclery, Louisville CO

Bike shop EC

Louisville Cyclery: For another year running, readers have voted for the Louisville Cyclery The shop is also one of the oldest in the county, serving the community since 1980, and is staffed by bike-loving professionals who assemble the bikes custom on-site.

RUNNER UP – CycleErie

Full Cycle, Boulder CO

Bike shop Boulder

Full Cycle: Full Cycle, voted by readers as the best bike shop in Boulder, holds to its mission to serve road cyclists and triathletes in the area. Full Cycle is a great place to purchase a new bike or get a current bike worked on while enjoying a coffee at their on-site shop.

RUNNER UP – Community Cycles

Ski shop EC

Angels Sports: Located in Longmont, Angels Sports supplies gear, rentals, and tuning for every ski or rider, whether headed up to a resort or exploring the backcountry.

RUNNER UP – Snow Hut

Crystal’s Ski Shop, Boulder CO

Ski shop Boulder

Crystal Ski Shop: Serving skiers and riders since 1976, Crystal has been dazzling clients with their expert service. They are beloved in this community not just because of Justin and the staff’s expertise and knowledge, but the truly local vibe that comes with this Boulder institution. 

RUNNER UP – Boulder Sports Recycler

Jax Outdoor Gear, Lafayette CO/Multiple Locations

Outdoor Retailer EC

Jax Outdoor: Jax has a large range of outdoor gear for everyone from the experienced backcountry athlete to the nature novice. Jax is also dedicated to the earth, donating proceeds to several environmental organizations and prioritizing sustainable distributors.

RUNNER UP – Angles Sports

Neptune Mountaineering, Boulder CO

Outdoor Retailer Boulder

Neptune Mountaineering: With gear, guidebooks, a coffee shop, and professional service for any level of mountain athlete, Neptune is a pillar of the outdoor scene and has served the community since 1976. Patrons love the knowledgeable staff and on-site museum.

RUNNER UP – REI

Indian Peaks Golf Course, City of Lafayette, CO

Golf Course EC

Indian Peaks Golf Course: With eighteen holes with mountain vistas, Indian Peaks, located in Lafayette, it’s easy to see why readers voted it as the golf course in the county. With a course designed by a hall of fame player, an academy for all levels, and a bar and grill, there is something for everyone.

RUNNER UP – Colorado National Golf Course

Golf Course Boulder

Flatirons Golf Course: A par-70 course with views of the flatiron formations, Flatirons offers easy-to-book online tee times, classes, and ADA-approved features. Run by the city of Boulder, it is an inclusive and welcoming space.

RUNNER UP – Lake Valley

Gym EC

Louisville Rec Center: With options ranging from free weights, circuit training, workout rooms, and machines, Louisville Rec Center is the best gym in the county. Whether you want to lift alone, join a class, or hire a personal trainer, there is an option for all.

RUNNER UP – Fitness 1440

Gym Boulder

North Boulder Rec Center: Spacious with south-facing windows, the North Boulder Rec Center…. With a cardio and weight room and several drop-in or scheduled classes, there are options for all ability levels.

RUNNER UP – Movement

Rec Center EC

Bob Burger Rec Center: Fun for all ages, the Bob Burger Rec Center Has youth afterschool and recreation programs, a spacious gym, and a great pool. Classes are offered throughout the day for adults and children who want to get in shape or try a new activity.

RUNNER UP – Erie Community Center

Rec Center Boulder

North Boulder Rec Center: Not only was North Boulder voted the best gym, but the best all-around rec center in Boulder. With a full gymnastics and aquatics center, pickleball and basketball courts, plus a pool and standard gym, kids and adults alike will find something fun to do.

RUNNER UP – East Boulder Rec Center

Eldora Mountain, Nederland CO

Ski Resort – Day Trip

Eldora: Just over thirty minutes from Boulder, Eldora is our reader’s favorite day-trip ski area. The resort hosts both a downhill mountain and a Nordic center. The whole family will have fun with everything from a magic carpet for the littlest beginners to several double black diamonds for the expert clientele.

RUNNER UP – Loveland

Ski Resort – Overnight

Steamboat: Located in the historic town of Steamboat Springs, Steamboat Resort boasts some of the highest snowfalls in Colorado, serviced by 23 chairlifts and 181 runs ranging from extreme to beginner. Steamboat also offers a variety of apres for a post-ski celebration.

RUNNER UP – Winter Park

Chroma Jiu Jitsu, Lafayette CO

Martial Arts EC

Chroma Jiu Jitsu: New to Lafayette, Chroma Jiu Jitsu has already won Best of the West! The academy offers programs for both adults and children, which an inclusive and accepting atmosphere, making it clear that all are welcome.

RUNNER UP – Bennett’s Karate

Martial Arts Boulder

Easton: Easton was voted the best Martial Arts Center in Boulder, specializing in Jiu Jitsu and Mui Thai. With programs for adults and children led by professional coaches, any skill level can grow in the sport. With a dedication to health, Easton focuses on hygiene and sanitation, ensuring their space is pristine and a safe environment.

RUNNER UP – Boulder Karate

Soul Tree Yoga, Lafayette CO

Yoga EC

Soul Tree Yoga: A part of the community since 2009, Soul Tree Yoga, located in Lafayette, with 40+ classes offered a week, both in person and online, in English and Spanish, and for all ability levels, is an inclusive and welcoming place.

RUNNER UP – Louisville Community Yoga

Yoga Pearl, Boulder CO

Yoga Boulder

Yoga Pearl: With classes ranging from gentle restorative to faster flow; the studio focuses on building inner and outer strength for their clientele. Their several workshops, on top of classes, there are plenty of opportunities to grow a yoga practice in the studio.

RUNNER UP – Little Yoga Studio

Pilates for Life, Longmont CO

Pilates EC

Pilates for Life: Focused on the success of each individual, each client will start their journey at Pilates 4 Life with three private sessions before having the option to move to the group setting. Claudia Miller, the owner, places comfort and confidence as the main priorities in her business.

RUNNER UP – Rocky Mountains Pilates

The Pilates Center, Boulder CO

Pilates Boulder

The Pilates Center: Opened by The Talyor Sisters in 1990, the Pilates Center was voted the best Pilates Studio in Boulder. With both in-person and online classes, the studio focuses on providing classes to all ability levels. As a franchised chain, the Pilates Center offers some of the best services in the county, and a membership can be used in other cities or states.

RUNNER UP – Boulder Pilates

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The post Best of the West 2024: Readers Choice appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Photo by Gray Box Studios

This year, we’re giving our Best of the West winners the red carpet treatment: The readers have spoken, the critics have made their picks and several local celebrities have added their two cents.

The envelope please…

Overall Restaurant

Colterra : East County

This Niwot hideaway was Chef Bradford Heap’s first shining star, and it continues to be a gem of East County dining with seasonal dishes inspired by the cuisines of southern France and northern Italy.

The Mediterranean : Boulder

The Med (officially, The Mediterranean) does a little bit of a lot of things with great aplomb. The menu combines Italian, Spanish, French and Greek cuisine in an array of tapas, salads, seafood, paella, grilled meats, pizzas and house-made baked goods and desserts. No wonder it’s a perennial favorite.

Contemporary American

Terroir : East County

As its name might suggest, Terroir takes seasonality and locale very seriously. Its menu draws inspiration from the Colorado land and landscape, offering modern American cuisine doused with the flavors of the Mediterranean.

Salt : Boulder

It was a bold move to take over the venerable Tom’s Tavern space, but with Salt’s farm-to-table menu and innovative cocktail program, it’s living up to the reputation long established at its historic locale.

Cheap Eats

Martino’s Pizzeria : East County

Since it opened, Martino’s has quickly become a YS staff lunch favorite, with tasty traditional thin-crust pies, unusual flavors and a gluten-free option that everyone from sales to graphics can enjoy—whether we’re normally gluten-free or not.

Snarf’s Sub Shop : Boulder

Whether you’re hankering for a classic Italian, a cheese and mushroom or a prime rib and provolone, you can’t beat Snarf’s for a tasty, toasty sandwich every time, served up in a colorful sub shop, quick as you please. And with six locations, you’re never far from satisfying a craving.

Bakery

Indulge Bakery : East County

In the foodie faith, heaven is often described as a pastry shop, with gleaming glass cases brimming with gourmet treats as beautiful to behold as they are delicious to taste. Should you find yourself in need of a soul-stirring baked good, worship at the altar of Indulge and try a taste of heaven.

Tee & Cakes : Boulder

We recently discovered Tee & Cakes also sells really excellent Novo coffee, making that daily cupcake run just that much more legitimate. It’s a lot more socially acceptable to say you’re going to grab a cup of coffee than going to grab a cupcake…and maybe a whoopie pie…and some cookies…

Bagel

Big Daddy Bagels : East County

You may or may not be aware Big Daddy Bagels not only sells, well, really fine bagels, but they also toast them and put all sorts of fabulous things in the middle of them, creating bagel sandwiches that are some of the finest in the land. And their chocolate chip cookies aren’t half bad, either.

Moe’s Broadway Bagel : Boulder

Moe’s bagels are legit on two fronts: New York-style bagels served up in an atmosphere that couldn’t be anywhere but Boulder. Swoop in for a fix that’s Big Apple and People’s Republic all at once.

BBQ

KT’s Real Good BBQ : EC and B

With nearly 20 years and four locations under their belt, Kirk and Tricia Jamison (the eponymous KT) know a bit about barbecue. Their smoky trail took them from Seattle to Memphis to Boulder with a passion for great barbecue leading the way.

Breakfast & Brunch

The Huckleberry : East County

Sitting in pride of place on a prominent corner in Louisville, stepping into Huckleberry feels a bit like stepping back in time for the kind of country breakfast you thought went the way of phone booth. It really doesn’t matter what you order. As the kids say, “it’s all good.”

Lucile’s Creole Cafe : Boulder

Biscuits, gravy, red beans and grits. Need we say more? OK, then how about chicory coffee and beignets. Yeah. Thought so.

Breakfast Burrito

Santiago’s : EC and B

On the Santiago’s website, there is a little ticker showing customer-submitted answers to the phrase, “You know you’re addicted to Santiago’s when…” Someone apparently submitted “…the burritos work faster than Viagra.” We don’t know about that, but now we’ll know a happy customer when we see one.

Burger

SmashBurger : East County

It’s all about the crispy bits. Smash that meat against the griddle and the edges get deliciously crispy and carbonized while the middle stays moist and juicy. Add to that the fact that you can get it built any way you like with a side of fried potato goodness and this becomes the fast-food burger joint that puts all the others
to shame.

Larkburger : Boulder

Oh, trendy hamburger paradise. Why must you be in Boulder while we languish 20 or 30 minutes away in East County? Please bring your black Angus burgers, your truffle fries and your real ice cream milk shakes out our way. We’ll love you better. Promise.

Chinese

Spice China : East County

You wouldn’t think a restaurant with a 20-page menu would need to add anything, but when Spice China added a sushi bar last year, it only made it better. Bring your reading glasses and dig in; everything’s good, Chinese, Japanese and beyond.

China Gourmet : Boulder

Don’t be shy; step up to the counter and order the best Chinese food in Boulder. Sure, the atmosphere may leave a little to be desired, but the food more than makes up for it. Lunch specials here are a great deal.

Coffee shop

Brewing Market Coffee : EC and B

Start with a great bean and you get a good brew. Add baristas who are never too busy to add a heart or leaf pattern to your latte and who never blink when you order something weird like decaf. Top with the genius of burritos heated on a panini press, and it’s pretty clear why Brewing Market leads the coffee chains around here.

Restaurant for a date

Magnolia : East County

Steak and sushi are sexy, but you can order anything off the menu at Magnolia and feel the romantic vibes. Allow us to recommend the blue crab macaroni and cheese, mon petit chou. A swank dining room and patio won’t hurt your cause either.

Frasca Food and Wine : Boulder

If your date knows anything about food or the restaurant scene in Colorado, just mentioning you’ve booked a table for two at Frasca will set her heart aflutter. Forgot the reservation? If the fates are with you, there might be room for two at the salumi table. Tell her you requested it specially. We won’t say anything.

Dessert

Indulge Bakery : East County

There’s a reason this place is called Indulge. It’s because you’re already thinking about dessert at 9 am on a Thursday. It’s because you plan ahead to swing by and pick up a “little something” for that special dinner at home. It’s because you’d rather go here than order off of a dessert menu anywhere else.

Tee & Cakes : Boulder

Cupcakes are the perfect dessert: they’re decadent without being overwhelming (no great wall of cake here); they’re individually sized so you don’t have to share; and they come in as many flavors as there are moods. Who cares what’s on the dessert list? Let’s just have cupcakes.

For Families

Zamparelli’s Italian Bistro : East County

Unlike most “family-friendly” pizza places, there are no scary animatronic creatures at Zamparelli’s. You will not be forced to listen to the ruckus of screaming children playing noisy midway games. Instead, you and the kids will experience real food from a real menu in a real restaurant. And bonus: They can make you a martini.

Turley’s : Boulder

Please don’t take this the wrong way Turley’s, but to us, you’re like an upscale Denny’s, made for families hungry for real food instead of corporate dreck. You’re the sort of place where parents can feel good about feeding their kids, and kids feel really good about the food on their plates. It’s a compliment; trust us.

Green Chile

Santiago’s : East County

Santiago’s now ships its chile all over the state and beyond. If that’s not a vote of confidence, we don’t know what is.

Efrain’s II : Boulder

The chile at Efrain’s reminds us of John Mellencamp crooning that it “hurts so good.” No greasy gravy here; just straight up authentic heat. Come on, baby. Make it hurt so good.

Indian

Taj Mahal : East County

Hiding in a nondescript strip mall is a jewel of India. Ornately decorated with food as exotic and rich as the décor. The lunch buffet is a steal, and the take away a great way to bring India home.

Bombay Bistro : Boulder

Fresh ingredients from local farms mix with modern and traditional Indian flavors in this hip, hot spot. Try the boneless beef short ribs for a taste of everything Indian cuisine can be. A new cocktail menu rounds out the experience with fresh flavors to compliment your meal.

Italian

Zamparelli’s Italian Bistro : East County

Zamparelli’s is so much more than pizza. Their risotto balls are transcendent. Their pastas hit the mark every time. Their salads go beyond just lettuce. If you can manage not to order one of their fantastic pizzas, you’ll realize they have fantastic everything else as well.

Laudisio : Boulder

Laudisio was farm-to-table before it was cool. For 20 years they’ve served up the very best in local products with a true Italian flare. Their wood-fired pizzas (and mobile oven) were ahead of the trend. In fact, Laudisio seems to be ahead of the curve in pretty much every department.

Mexican

Efrain’s : EC and B

Personally, I could eat the chile verde bowl (with a side of guacamole) at least once a week. It’s my favorite. But the mondongo bowl also has a crave-worthy allure, as does the mystique of the Efrain’s burrito. No matter what, you get something delicious, something that will soon become your favorite.

Patio

Martini’s Bistro : East County

Martini’s is always a nice spot for dinner or lunch. But come spring, the beautiful Victorian with charm unto itself opens its lovely patio for diners. It’s like a normal restaurant patio but with all the perks of a hip lounge—cozy chairs, fireplaces, perfect lighting, excellent people watching and cocktails, of course.

The Mediterranean : Boulder

The Med’s patio is coveted. If it’s not raining or snowing or doing one of Colorado’s odd climatic freakshows, you want a spot on the patio. You want it because, maybe, just maybe, the slight breeze, sunshine and fresh air will make you feel as though you are sitting seaside on the coast of Spain, eating mussels and paella.

Lunch

Sun Rose Cafe : East County

There’s no want for deliciousness at Sun Rose—it’s all yummy. But there is a special you get from a cup of homemade soup (it changes daily) and a smoked turkey and bacon panini with slices of avocado, sweet basil vinaigrette, sun dried tomatoes and Dijon mayo. It exemplifies the Longmont eatery’s balance between hearty, familiar flavors and homemade inventiveness.

The Mediterranean : Boulder

Power lunches are for getting work done (or at least looking like you’re getting work done). But ya’ll gotta eat too. The Med has long been a destination for East County and Boulder power-lunchers and casual-lunchers alike, serving up all sorts of amazing tapas and entrees. Kind of makes being productive a lot more appetizing.

Salad

Zamparelli’s : East County

There are salads and then there are Zamp’s salads. Never overwrought or overcrowded, these are light and scrumptious. The Caesar is a tangy spin on a classic (with buttery croutons), the arugula salad is doused in Parmigiano-Reggiano with a tangy balsamic, and the pear and gorgonzola has tremendous balance with fruit and cheese, walnuts and greens. It’s a whole new world of salads.

Mad Greens : Boulder

It happens all the time. You have 30 minutes for lunch, and your choices are a handful of fast food or fast casual eateries. But all you want is a spinach salad with grilled portobello, blue cheese, artichoke hearts, almonds and maybe shallot tarragon vinaigrette. McDonald’s definitely isn’t gonna do it. But Mad Greens really does do it your way.

Sandwich

Martino’s Pizzeria : East County

When you want your sandwich to be a little more like pizza—melted mozzarella, homemade tomato sauce and Italian sausage—you would be remiss to overlook the Italian grinder at Martino’s. It’s overflowing, rich and gratifying, this sandwich leaves you stuffed.

Snarf’s Sub Shop : Boulder

If you can stand its loud music and a little wait for the food: Snarf’s kitchen crew and amazing food make it totally worthwhile. These famous sandwiches are served on hot, fresh bread, and each ingredient is sure to have you’re taste buds tingling through to the very last bite.

Seafood

Tortuga’s : East County

Tortuga’s is consistently referred to as the “hidden gem” of Longmont. Set in a pretty little historic home, they serve up amazing Caribbean- and Southern-inspired fare with flavors that you can’t find anywhere else in the area. If you know what’s good for you, discover this gem.

Jax Fish House : Boulder

Jax garnered national fame when its chef Hosea Rosenberg won Top Chef a few years back. But way before Rosenberg wowed Bravo obsessees, Jax was making locals drool over stellar seafood. Jax consistently does inspired plates of beautiful fish and shellfish, paying homage to the natural flavors of the ocean and rivers while showing their innovative muscles.

Pizza

Martino’s Pizzeria : East County

In this day and age, it’s tough to find a place where all people with all dietary restrictions can gather and enjoy a meal together. But Martino’s has gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian and vegan options. It’s always a crowd pleaser—no matter how picky your crowd is. Martino’s unites us all!

Abo’s : Boulder

Abo’s serves up a straight-forward pizza that pleases both college students and wayward office workers searching for mid-day sustenance, especially when that’s a big, thin-crust slice of pepperoni pizza. Whether you’re on a country road in Erie or in the heart of Boulder, Abo’s has a slice waiting for you.

Steakhouse

Magnolia : East County

Magnolia is the James Franco of restaurants (it’s good at a lot of things). But steak? Their steaks are swagger and savoir fair, like their grilled Angus sirloin with roasted garlic demi, which is served with buttermilk onion rings. Delicious and sexy…like the time James Franco guest stared on General Hospital.

The Boulder Chophouse : Boulder

The Boulder Chophouse brings a bit of upscale romance to the traditional steakhouse concept. There are no peanuts on the floor, but there is meat—crazy good slabs of perfectly grilled, well-seasoned steak.

Sushi

Sushi Mara (Magnolia) : East County

Lafayette’s Magnolia has different personalities: At one moment it’s a steakhouse, the next you’re being served a beautiful salad and leg of lamb. Then you’re getting an annihilator roll and two orders of unagi. And that’s a good thing, because we know that no matter our mood, we’re covered.

Sushi Zanmai : Boulder

You leave Sushi Zanmai with a smile on your face. It’s the sake. Then, of course, you’ve just had more raw fish than a binging shark, and you stayed late to catch surprisingly tolerable karaoke. Just try not to smile.

Thai

Thai Kitchen : East County

Thai Kitchen is legit. Which is our way of saying the Longmont restaurant may be the easiest way to connect with Thai culture while staying in town. The dishes—like the larb, pad prig and Thai curries—are traditional, full of exotic flavors, spices and heat.

Chy Thai Cuisine : Boulder

I judge Thai food restaurants by their tom kha soup. It’s not as ubiquitous as pad thai or curries, and when you take a sip of a truly delicious tom kha, you know you’ve found something special. Chy Thai’s is spicy but sweet, filled with meaty mushrooms and a subtle perfume of lemongrass. From there, keep eating.

Vegetarian

Flavor of India Inc. : East County

This happens every year: Flavor of India, by no means a “vegetarian restaurant,” is voted best vegetarian restaurant. But we feel for the non-meat eaters, and we’re happy they’ve found solace in their veggie samosas, aloo gobi and sag paneer.

Leaf : Boulder

We have a couple of vegetarians on staff, and they are a vocal, passionate few (they’ve even muscled the meat-eaters into Meatless Mondays). Boulder’s Leaf is a celebration of them: a restaurant that honors the vegetarian, preparing truly delicious food sans animal.

Bar

Waterloo : East County

Waterloo is the little black dress of bars. Seriously, hear me out: it’s classic yet trendy, it’s sexy and cool, and your mom would totally approve. With exposed brick, local beers on tap and a band usually playing your song, no matter your mood, it’s just the right fit.

The Bitter Bar/Happy : Boulder

The Bitter Bar is an adventure. It can be a pick-your-own-adventure. Or you can stow away on one of their mixologist’s expeditions. Order off of the menu (the Aviation is a dream or try the Green Tea Pimm’s) or simply tell the bad-ass staff what you like. Either way, prepare for a journey.

Dive Bar

Dillinger’s Food & Spirits : East County

Discover your inner delinquent at this bar with wide-set bar stools and pool tables to break away from the usual crowd. Stop by to get real bar grub with a nice bottled beer.

The Dark Horse : Boulder

Make your way into the belly of the beast with this untamed bar. Much like its name signifies, you’ll dive into a darkened, tight-quartered tavern and relish the flea market décor galore. With food like peanut-butter cheeseburgers and flowing beer on tap, I challenge you to giddy up.

Pub/Tavern

Waterloo : East County

Pub must-haves: beer and food. Waterloo doesn’t just have food. It has a list of burgers (the potato burger will seduce you), barbecue and some killer jalapeno poppers that go perfectly with a glass of local beer. Done and done.

Conor O’Neill’s : Boulder

I have a confession: I’m a former Conor O’Neill’s regular. The reason for the “former” has less to do with Conor O’Neill’s and more to do with me no longer being a barfly (that happens when you age). But as I think about having a boxty and a pint of Strongbow, there are still temptations.

Brewery

Oskar Blues : East County

If breweries were periods of ancient civilization, Oskar Blues would be the Roman Empire. It seems, these days, the funky Lyons brewpub has exploded with multiple locations—a restaurant and a tasting room—and a true national brand. We’re just the beneficiaries of their reign.

Boulder Beer Company : Boulder

The creations of Boulder Beer are crowd pleasers: drinkable but inventive, bold and flavorful. It’s no wonder our readers drink Boulder Beer’s beers by…well…the pint.

Happy Hour

Magnolia : East County

Happy hour is supposed to be happy, so when you finally get there, all you want are friends, a discounted cocktail and snacks. Magnolia has two of those—with a menu of bites and bits, including tempura avocado, in the casual cocktail lounge or the patio. Just bring friends.

The Mediterranean : Boulder

The best thing about The Med’s happy hour is the selection. They don’t just hand you a tiny list of happy hour restrictions. There are mussels, hummus and tapas to share or to hoard. And fear not, they serve up quality, not just quantity.

Margaritas

Efrain’s II : East County

The Efrain’s margarita comes in a jar—an unintimidating glass of golden liquid. It’s a bit sweet with flecks of salt and a soft hint of tequila shining through. It’s a summer day in one sip.

Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant : Boulder

The Rio marg is the stuff of legends. It’s toppled grown men and crushed many a 21-year-old. Slightly sweet and full of tang, these are not the type of cocktails served in fishbowls or downed by the gallon. There’s a limit of three, but trust us—three Rio margs could be your downfall.

Wine List

Zucca Italian Ristorante : East County

We love wine lists that have range. Zucca, Louisville’s new Italian stallion, has a well-curated list that spans Italy’s best wine regions. Have a little glass of Piedmont or a glass of Tuscany. That’s the kind of range we can drink in.

Frasca Food and Wine : Boulder

James Beard knows his stuff, and when he talks, we listen. The James Beard Foundation has repeatedly honored Bobby Stuckey, the co-owner of Frasca and master sommelier, for his mad skills as the wine director at Boulder’s Friulian gem. Their wine list has breadth and depth, it’s world-class but locally inspired.

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The post Best of the West: Readers’ Choice Food & Drink appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Readers’ Choice East County & Boulder:

Overall Restaurant (E. County)
Sugarbeet, Longmont
Sugarbeet returns to the top—as readers once again embrace this culinary darling as their premier dining destination. And it’s no surprise. Sugarbeet’s contemporary American fare is approachable and oh-so good. The atmosphere is perfectly unfussy (but just fussy enough to be special).

Overall Restaurant (Boulder)
The Mediterranean
After more than a decade and a half, The Med still inspires new patrons and still lures old ones. It’s a magnetic charm—in the form of fresh, beautiful plates of wood-fired pizza, big salads and seafood-heavy pastas as well as a lively, colorful vibe—that has just not faded.

Contemporary American (E. County)
Magnolia Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Lafayette
A restaurant that offers a sushi menu alongside chicken with roasted sweet potato and orange-coriander pan sauce and smoked beef ragu is either brilliant or crazy. With exceptional execution and creative elegance, we opt for crazy brilliant.

Contemporary American (Boulder)
Salt
Drop in, if not for the organic, seasonal dishes that satisfy and beguile, than to be in awe of the history, design and strut of this new Boulder hot spot. The setting is just as interesting and thoughtful as the plates that come out of the kitchen. Don’t forget about the basement lounge.

Cheap Eats (E. County)
Sun Rose Café, Longmont
The sweeping space, which is dotted with a gallery of local art and nicely filled with a smattering of tables, does not feel cheap; neither do the flavor-focused sandwiches, the ever-changing soups or the bountiful dinner salads. But for us, this Longmont café is as affordable as it is lovely.

Cheap Eats (Boulder)
Snarf’s Sub Shop
Snarf’s is a longtime institution in Boulder County—turning simple ingredients into pure sandwich delight for the college masses and the lunch crowd. The bread is phenomenal and arguably the calling card of Snarf’s. The tuna melt is amazing, topped with hot peppers. Snarf it!

BBQ (E. County & Boulder)
The Rib House, Longmont & Boulder
Readers and critics alike love The Rib House for its amazing fall-off-the-bone ribs and pork sandwiches, the turkey, cheesy corn, fried okra and delicious, delicious sauces. The Rib House always pleases. It’s kind of like the Tom Hanks of restaurants.

Bakery (E. County)
Indulge Bakery, Lafayette
You can find chocolates, cakes and pastries at any bakery, but at Indulge, the baked goods are always fresh, decadent, beautiful and perfectly indulgent.

Bakery (Boulder)
Spruce Confections
Whether you need an espresso and a cookie or a salad and piece of pie, the adorable Spruce Confections is the sweet spot. Try the cream cheese and peaches scone, and you will be walking on sunshine.

Bagel (E. County)
Big Daddy Bagels, various locations
A Big Daddy bagel is big and pillowy, chewy, with perfect doughy meat. And while we love their cream cheese, we prefer them as is…simple, fresh and unadorned.

Bagel (Boulder)
Moe’s Broadway Bagels
This iconic bagel-paradise has been the tried and true favorite of Boulderites for decades. The funky atmosphere and the staff’s passion for bagels just make you want to join in the fun.

Breakfast (E. County)
Two Dog Diner, Longmont
Plates of fluffy omelets, fun salt and pepper shakers, families sharing pancakes and crispy bacon. It all comes together to create the friendly, cool modern diner that is Two Dog.

Breakfast (Boulder)
Original Pancake House
At Original Pancake House, having breakfast is kind of like making a really good memory. The menu is packed with tasty treasures. If you’re in the mood for craveable classics, do try out the apple pancake or the Dutch baby. You’ll never forget it!

Breakfast Burrito (E. County)
Santiago’s, various locations
Santiago’s won this category hands down. Perfect to grab and go, their breakfast burritos are not the kind that leave you unbuttoning your denim. Still, the lanky foil-wrapped packages fill you enough to leave you totally happy.

Breakfast Burrito (Boulder)
Big City Burrito
The best part of a Big City breakfast burrito? The potatoes. These babies are fried crisp and light and packed in a giant tortilla. Just add eggs, cheese, salsa de lupe and guac. You are good to go, literally.

Brunch (E. County)
The Huckleberry, Louisville
The beauty of Huckleberry starts when you walk into the funky, historical digs in downtown Louisville. Then it fully blossoms when you dig into the blueberry flapjacks, fried green tomatoes or chicken pot pie.

Brunch (Boulder)
The Greenbriar Inn
Anything you pair with champagne is OK with us…and the Greenbriar’s Sunday brunch is no exception. This buffet is bountiful—with brunch classics like prime rib, omelets, oysters and salads…and champagne.

Burger (E. County)
Waterloo, Louisville
The potato burger is the specialty of the house but the Waterloo burger is the mainstay. Both are juicy, packed with accompaniments and bursting with savory, all-American flavors. It’s a burger destination that always satisfies.

Burger (Boulder)
Larkburger
This local newbie has done nothing but attract compliments and crowds since it opened. Probably because they serve up a mean burger and fries, perfect for those “I really need a burger” moments.

Coffeehouse (E. County)
Brewing Market, various locations
Readers love Brewing Market (all of them) because, here, there is no snobbery. Entire families gather for coffee and juice. Friends meet to gossip. Students pull out laptops and get to work. Plus, if you’re in need of a bite to eat or a nibble of chocolate, they have plenty of both.

Coffeehouse (Boulder)
Vic’s
Vic’s is the local’s refuge from the corporate coffee titans. Their coffee and espresso are killer and the pastries (we love the big, fluffy muffins) are always fresh. And no matter which location, there is always that special Vic’s brand of hipness.

Restaurant for a Date (E. County)
Sugarbeet, Longmont
Sugarbeet, with a reputation that is solid as gold, has become the place to go when you want to impress. Whether your date is a foodie or just regular person with a regular palette, the food, drink and service are spot on.

Restaurant for a Date (Boulder)
The Mediterranean
Let’s face it: The Med is a sexy place. The setting is sleek and cool. The drinks are flowing. The food is always delicious, fresh and just exotic enough. The lighting seems practically made to help you get a good-night kiss. And The Mediterranean vibe is pure and sensuous. That’s how you romance.

Dessert (E. County)
Indulge Bakery, Lafayette
When an Indulge cake is pulled out during a birthday party or special event, it’s really, really hard to say no. So, if we were you, we would just say yes.

Dessert (Boulder)
Cheesecake Factory
Decadence never perfectly describes the Cheesecake Factory. It is, in fact, as gluttonous as they come, but our readers tend to think big, especially when it comes to the Chocolate Tower Truffle Cake.

For Families (E. County)
Two Dog Diner, Longmont
One need only look through the windows of Two Dog Diner to see that it’s terrific family fun. Parents and children fill the tables. The atmosphere is lighthearted, cool and playful. And their menu is a kid’s dream come true: pancakes and waffles and grilled cheese, oh my!

For Families (Boulder)
Turley’s
“Family friendly” doesn’t mean there are toys and games and a giant singing mouse. At Turley’s, it means that an entire family can gather for a delicious meal and enjoy the experience. Plus, Turley’s has a healthful bent that keeps our readers coming back—whether it’s with the kiddos or with co-workers.

Patio (E. County)
Martini’s Bistro, Longmont
Martini’s patio is kind of like a living room in the beautiful Colorado sun. Enjoy a martini and one of their killer appetizers lounging around the outdoor fire pit on a patio sofa.

Patio (Boulder)
The Mediterranean
The Med’s patio doesn’t have a view of rocky peaks or busy streets. It’s pure sunshine and flower pots and a true focus on the intimate setting and amazing food.

Green Chili (E. County & Boulder)
Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant, various locations
Efrain’s green chili is not like traditional Colorado chili. It’s thinner, like a spicy broth with big chunks of pork and a pertness. The flavor is up front and forward, just like it should be.

Lunch (E. County)
Sun Rose Café, Longmont
A cup of homemade soup. A fresco panini. An ice-cold glass of lavender lemonade. So simply scrumptious, Sun Rose’s lunches are the kind of meals that surprise you with flavor and satisfaction and leave you ready to tackle the rest of your day.

Lunch (Boulder)
Laudisio Italian Restaurant
Laudisio reminds us that lunch does not need to be austere. It reminds us that we can enjoy a bibb lettuce salad along with the ridiculously good rucola pizza. And maybe dessert.

Chinese (E. County)
Spice China, Louisville
Spice China is legendary and it could win simply on the breadth and depth of its menu, but we suspect they actually won because the food that results is truly stellar.

Chinese (Boulder)
China Gourmet
Whether you order spicy beef tendon when you’re at a Chinese restaurant or you’re more of a sweet-and-sour pork sort of person, here there’s something that will surely please everyone. Order at the counter and act like a regular.

Italian (E. County)
Zamparelli’s Italian Bistro, Lafayette
Zamparelli’s is a local’s favorite. How could you go wrong with brick-oven pizzas, lovely salads and soups and mouth-watering sandwiches? No, seriously, that’s not rhetorical. How can you go wrong?

Italian (Boulder)
Laudisio Italian Restaurant
Laudisio has one of those menus that’s endlessly enticing but verging on frustrating. So much so that it’s painful to pick between chicken saltimbocca and spaghettini puttanesca. But eventually we do pick one, and we are so happy we did.

Salad (E. County)
Zamparelli’s Italian Bistro, Lafayette
A salad for every day. Sometimes we go for the arugula salad with prosciutto. Other times it’s the Caesar with tasty croutons. Pear and gorgonzola salad is best on a summer day, when the flavors match our mood.

Salad (Boulder)
Mad Greens
Why didn’t someone think of this sooner? A fast, fun salad stop that offers more dressings, toppings and types of greens than you can shake a breadstick at.

Mexican
Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant, various locations
If you like it hot, you’ll love Efrain’s. Known for its funky vibe, Efrain’s serves up honest Mexican food. Cool your palate with a super strong margarita.

Mexican (Boulder)
The Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
The quintessential margarita spot needs a solid menu of craveable treats. At Rio, everyone has their favorites—whether it’s the soup and quesadilla on the lunch menu (even when it’s not lunch) or a steak burrito, smothered. Grab a seat on the roof and catch a slice of Boulder nightlife with a side order of Mexican-American fare.

Pizza (E. County & Boulder)
Proto’s Pizza, various locations
The Neapolitan-style thin crust at Proto’s brings people together. Especially, on Friday nights, when Proto’s serves up its specialty: the mighty tasty
clam pizza.

Seafood (E. County)
Tortuga’s, Longmont
If you haven’t been to Tortuga’s in a while, it’s time to revisit this Longmont gem. Amazing fish in a landlocked state isn’t hard to come by here.

Seafood (Boulder)
Jax Fish House
How often do you get a chance to dine with a Top Chef? And beyond the celebrity factor, the food is delish. Start with oysters, order with abandon, and don’t forget to save room for dessert.

Steak house (E. County)
Colorado Coal Company, Erie
One of the best reasons to drive to Erie. Get a table or belly up to the bar with the locals and enjoy a great steak at a reasonable price—from top sirloin and flat iron to rib eye, New York strip and prime rib.

Steak house (Boulder)
Boulder Chop House
Contemporary steak house feel with local and organic ingredients inspiring the menu. Timeless taste meets cutting-edge cuisine trends in a cool, super comfortable and intimate setting. This is how Boulder does steak house.

Sushi/Japanese (E. County)
Sakura Japanese Cuisine, Longmont
This Japanese gem looks innocuous from the outside, but inside, feels totally authentic. Order a bento box to try lots of things or just get your favorite sashimi.

Sushi/Japanese (Boulder)
Sushi Zanmai
Step through the doors and be treated to a hearty welcome from the sushi bar. It’s just a sign of things to come. This place is legendary for good reason. Order one of their house specialty rolls.

Thai (E. County)
Thai Kitchen, Longmont
Our publisher’s sister lives in Thailand, so when she tells us that a Thai place is authentic, we tend to believe her. Order the pork larb and order it spicy.
It’s addictive.

Thai (Boulder)
Elephant Hut
Excellent food, a sleek, modern and impeccably beautiful atmosphere and art painted by elephants. Yes, elephants.

Sandwich (E. County)
Snarf’s Sub Shop, Longmont & Westminster
Quality ingredients and classic preparations make this a beloved favorite. Hip-hip hurray for the new store in Westminster!

Sandwich (Boulder)
Salvaggio’s Italian Deli
Smack dab in the middle of Pearl Street isn’t where you might expect to find a traditional Italian deli, but one bite of the sandwiches here will make you a believer.

Indian (E. County)
Taj Mahal III, Louisville
The atmosphere is warm, the staff is friendly and our readers obviously dig their tasty, traditional Indian fare. Try a little of everything at the lunch buffet.

Indian (Boulder)
Tandoori Grill
Authentic Indian dishes with a modern twist, this restaurant is consistently listed among the best Indian establishments in Colorado.

Vegetarian (E. County)
Flavor of India, Longmont
Saag paneer, vegetable samosas, aloo gobi—for any vegetarians looking to spice up their lives, you really can’t do much better than Flavor of India.

Vegetarian (Boulder)
Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant
Sick of salads? The entire menu at Leaf is vegetarian, offering tons of gourmet and eco-friendly options for herbivores and their omnivore friends.

Overall Bar (E. County)
Pumphouse Brewery, Longmont
Pumphouse is where Longmont goes to relax. Beers with the boys. Ladies’ night on the patio. Friends, teammates or co-workers enjoying a break from work and locally brewed beer.

Overall Bar (Boulder)
West End Tavern
The mixologists (that’s right, no bartenders here) at West End have skills coming out of their shot glasses. Sage Swink leads the team of cocktail craftspeople, serving up drinks in the cozy downstairs bar or on the rooftop patio.

Pub/Tavern (E. County)
Mike O’Shay’s Restaurant & Ale, Longmont
Longmont’s downtown Irish haven is one of the most reliable finds in the area. It’s a neighborhood bar and restaurant serving up consistently tasty
food to a friendly crowd.

Pub/Tavern (Boulder)
Walnut Brewery
You can simply judge Walnut Brewery by the crowds that fill it—and do expect a wait if you show up on a weekend evening. With a Buff Gold in your hand, you’ll know it’s worth it.

Brewery (E. County)
Left Hand Brewery, Longmont
You can’t deny Left Hand Brewery’s reign: Sawtooth Ale, Milk Stout, Jackman’s Pale Ale and the seasonal Oktoberfest. With beers like these, Left Hand has truly become our own king of beers. And we are loyal and trusting minions.

Brewery (Boulder)
Walnut Brewery
The beers that Walnut Brewery create are flagship local drinks. Buffalo Gold is iconic, citrusy and gold like sunshine. The St. James Irish Red Ale has a staunch cult following. The Indian Peaks Pale Ale has a lovely, crisp flavor that makes it so amazing on a spring day.

Local Beer (E. County & Boulder)
Left Hand Brewery’s Sawtooth, Longmont
Coloradans are beer snobs and for a good reason. Our palettes are refined from all that consumption. So, when readers select Sawtooth as their favorite, it means something. The amber ale is drinkable yet complex with nutty and herbal flavors.

Happy Hour (E. County)
Oskar Blues, Longmont
After work, folks—from the suited up to the dressed down—hear the siren song of happy hour of Oskar Blues Liquid & Solids: $2 pints. Is it calling your name?

Happy Hour (Boulder)
The Mediterranean
At The Med, happy hour is a true art, with plate after plate of mussels, steamed octopus and all kinds of hummus. They practically invented tapas; well, at least they brought them to Boulder.

The post Best of the West: Reader’s Choice Food appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.