Keep money in the hands of our locals by saying goodbye to greedy corporations and mass-produced products, and shopping locally. The next time you need to purchase a gift for someone, support your neighbors while boosting the local economy with our list of unique and locally made arts, crafts, and goods.  Shopping locally is more than a cute slogan; it’s a revolution and how we survive a corporate coup.

Locavore Gift Guide

1. The Boulder Flower Farm 

Flower workshop – Longmont 

Gift someone a new skill with a fun and informative flower-arranging workshop from the Boulder Flower Farm. For over 35 years, this farm and wedding venue has been providing the community with ornamental flowers. It offers the perfect opportunity to express yourself and work with a variety of colors, flowers, and textures by creating a beautiful floral design in one of their many floral design workshops. 

This is a great gift for creative-minded people.  boulderflowerfarm.com – 4114 Oxford Rd, Longmont, CO 

2. Lishma Love 

Mushroom light catcher – Online 

If you’re looking for a truly unique gift, you’ll want to look at these adorable mushroom light catchers from Lishma Love, inspired by all things fungi. Place these dainty glass mushrooms in sunlight to create a dreamy and ethereal ambiance. The cute, pastel-colored fungi hand-blown glass ornaments are more than just a whimsical gift that looks stunning in the sunlight. Part of the proceeds from the sale is donated to provide scholarships for students seeking psychedelic therapy.  lishmalove.com/shop

3. Local Books and Music

Gift Card – Erie, Lafayette, Longmont, Boulder 

Got a bookworm in your life? A gift card to any one of the local bookstores is one of the best local gifts you can give a book lover. Located in Old Town Erie is the Briggs Street Books and Music, which stocks all books and music from all genres, as well as fun bookish gifts. 

The Read Queen, in Lafayette, offers an in-house coffee shop along with a range of new and used books, furthering the gift card experience.

Composition Shop just opened in Longmont and carries a healthy selection of bestsellers, local authors, and a variety that extends well beyond romance novels.

Finally, the Boulder Bookstore not only has an extensive collection of books for any reader to find their next pick, but also events with popular authors sharing their work.   

briggsstreetbooks.com  –  615 Briggs St Unit D, Erie 

thereadqueen.com – 129 N Harrison Ave, Lafayette

compositionshop.com – 356 Main St, Longmont

boulderbookstore.net – 1107 Pearl St, Boulder

4. The Singing Cook 

Gift Card & Gifts – Louisville 

Located in the historic downtown of Louisville is a local favorite: The Singing Cook. This store is the best place to find some unique and essential kitchen items. From cool kitchen gadgets to quality bakeware, this is the ultimate place to shop for the cook in your life. You’ll even be able to find plenty of locally-made products! singingcookstore.com  – 728 Main St., Louisville

 5. Mudslingers Pottery School 

In-store creative class – Lafayette 

Got a creative person in your life? Why not gift them with a fun, creative class at Mudslingers Pottery School? This ceramic school and creative studio was established in 1997 and has since shared the love of ceramics with all who join its classes. Learn how to use a pottery wheel and hand-build some stunning pieces. There are several classes and workshops that you can purchase a gift certificate for. mudslingerspottery.com – 414 E Simpson St. Lafayette, CO

 6. Farfel’s Farm 

Trump chew toys – Boulder 

Spoil your pooch with a fun and cheeky chew toy from Farfel’s Farm. Farfel’s Farm is a unique, creative store on Pearl Street that offers high-quality pet products and services. 

Our choice of gift? These creative Trump chew dolls are durable and well-stuffed for plenty of hours of wild fun. There are some other “politically sound” dog toy options available from this store as well. The best part about letting your dog go wild on a Trump doll? The proceeds of this chew toy are used to help Farfel’s Farm & Rescue save hundreds of dogs from high-kill shelters yearly and place them in loving foster homes.  farfels.com – 906 Pearl Street, Boulder

7. Vintrey Honest Goods 

Lafayette  

Sometimes gift shopping can be hard if you don’t have a gift idea in mind. Why not take a stroll through Vintrey Honest Goods and get inspired? This small family-owned business in Lafayette stocks a wide selection of goods from local artisans. Browse through the unique vintage merchandise and small batch goods to find the perfect gift. vintrey.com  – 107 S Public Rd, Lafayette

 8. Adorn Home & Gift Gallery

Longmont 

Support the local economy and local artisans by picking a gift that is truly unique at Adorn Home & Gift Gallery. For over 17 years, this gift shop has provided a one-stop location for unique gift shopping. Don’t know what you’re looking for? That’s okay. Browse through the collections of colorful decor, pampering products, jewelry, children’s gifts, and other knick-knacks that catch your eye and will make a special gift! Browse through products from over 160 vendors!  adornadornables.com – 5480, 661 4th Ave, Longmont

 9. Thalken 

Locally-made jewelry – Lafayette 

Thalken is a locally owned and operated jewelry and gift store. What started as a presence at pop-up events grew into a friendly store that is a staple in the local community. Husband and wife duo, William and Hana, sell a wide range of perfect gift items, including Hana’s handmade jewelry, rustic and organic pottery, cozy socks, and hand-poured soap. thalken.com  – 101 1/2 E Chester St, Lafayette

 10. Boulder Free Flight 

Paragliding experience – online 

Looking for a non-traditional and thrilling gift idea for the adventure seeker in your life? Why not buy them an unforgettable paragliding experience and let them witness the beauty of the Rockies from the sky? This experience will have you flying tandem with a professional paragliding pilot, where you will get to soak in the views of the Continental Divide to the West, Boulder’s iconic Flatirons to the South, and the Great Plains to the East. This is an amazing gravity-defying experience they’ll never forget. redtailparagliding.com/tandem-paragliding-boulder

 11. Art Parts Creative Reuse Center

Gift certificate – Boulder 

Surprise the environmentally conscious person in your life with a thoughtful and sustainable gift:  a gift voucher to the Arts Parts Creative Reuse Center. Arty people, crafters, and DIY enthusiasts will enjoy browsing through the abundance of colorful art supplies from shelves brimming with colorful beads, ribbons, yarn, paints, and one-of-a-kind objects waiting to be transformed into something creative. This non-profit reuse center repurposes unused art and craft supplies to keep them out of landfills. A gift voucher for this eco-friendly store is a great way to spark creativity while supporting a meaningful mission.   artpartsboulder.org – 3080 Valmont Road, Boulder

 12. Piece, Love & Chocolate    

Chocolate making class – Boulder 

Give the chocolate lover in your life a truly unique gift: learning how to make chocolate! Piece, Love & Chocolate is a local chocolatier that has been around since 2011, and it is where all your sugary dreams come true. The classes include learning how to make handcrafted truffles, classic macarons, and baking decadent lava cakes. This is a great gift and a fun way to pick up some new skills. pieceloveandchocolate.com –  805 Pearl Street, Boulder

 13. Highland Honey

Jar of creamed honey – online 

Enjoy a spoonful of creamed honey made from local Boulder County apiaries in your cup of warm tea or in your favorite baking recipes. This creamy and rich honey is raw and unheated, so you don’t have to worry about it crystallizing. Located in the foothills and mountains of Boulder County, you can taste the complex flavors of wildflowers. This is the perfect locally-made gift for someone sweet in your life.  highlandbees.com

 14. Flatiron Pepper Co

Super hot spice set – online 

Gift the foodie in your life with a feisty spice set from locally-owned Flatiron Pepper Co. These chiles and peppers from all around the world are mixed together to create a unique blend, from mild and flavorful to rich and spicy, each with its own character. The super hot set comes with three rich and smoky flavors to enjoy on foods like pizza, pasta, steak, and any other dish you can think of. Not only is this a fantastic food lover’s gift, but it also supports a passionate local business with a bold taste.  flatironpepper.com/products/dark-smoky-2

 15. Local Coffee Producers  

Bag of coffee – Online & Local

We cannot think of a better gift for coffee lovers than a bag or two of aromatic coffee from some of Boulder’s best local producers.  Peak State’s aromatic coffee, founded by an outdoor athlete and coffee lover, harnesses the natural powers of mushrooms without compromising on flavor. 

Pauls Coffee is a Louisville and Superior favorite, Pauls Coffee is all about small-batch roasting and the kind of consistency locals swear by. Their beans are smooth, balanced, and deeply reliable — the kind of everyday coffee gift that feels both local and personal. In Louisville and now open in Superior.

Ozo Coffee long a Boulder staple with locations through Boulder and one in Longmont, has a devoted following, Ozo Coffee has built its reputation on ethically sourced beans, meticulous roasting, and a community-minded approach. Their single-origin options and seasonal blends make thoughtful, well-crafted gifts for any coffee lover.

Ampersand Coffee is another great option. Not only is their organic coffee delicious, but the Boulder business also focuses on women’s empowerment by partnering with the International Women’s Coffee Alliance (IWCA).  

Another coffee producer worth checking out is Silver Canyon Coffee. Established in 1985, they are the first small-batch, specialty roasters in Boulder. Coffee lovers will appreciate the curated selection of microlot and single-origin coffees.  

peakstatecoffee.com/collections/coffee-with-benefits 

paulscoffeeandtea.com

ozocoffee.com

ampersand-coffee.com 

silvercanyoncoffee.com

 16. Colorado Aromatics 

Bag O’ Balms – Longmont, CO 

Boulder County is home to some amazing skincare businesses, and Colorado Aromatics is a great place to do your gift shopping. Our pick is the Bag O’ Balms. This gift set comes with a knuckle balm made from calendula, myrrh, and plantain to soothe the skin. There is also a creamy foot butter made from mint, comfrey, and calendula, and a soothing lip balm made with jojoba oil and lemon. This is the perfect gift for those hot and dry Summer months in Boulder. coloradoaromatics.com/products/bag-o-balms

 17. Rebecca’s Herbal Apothecary & Supply 

Therapeutics teas and tinctures – Boulder Got a tea lover in your life? We can’t think of a better gift than tea from Rebecca’s Herbal Apothecary. The store stocks a wide range of botanical teas made from real plants and simple ingredients. Choose from sweet and light floral teas to powerful herbal teas for when you’re feeling under the weather. The range of teapots and infusers also makes for some lovely gift ideas! rebeccasherbs.com  – 1227 Spruce St, Boulder

 18. Boulder Ghost Boulder Tour 

Tickets to the haunted pub tour – Boulder 

Do something different for a gift and purchase tickets to the frighteningly exciting Boulder haunted pub tour. Visit some of Boulder’s most historic and allegedly haunted sites and learn the ghostly stories and historical background. This tour visits some of Boulder’s most haunted pubs, where you’ll get to enjoy a drink while the guides share tales of local history, myths, and legends. Bring your camera along for a night of fun, fright, and history if you dare!  boulderghosttours.com

 19. Beyond Boulder Bike Adventures 

Bike-N-Brew CruiseExplore the local breweries and disservices on a bicycle with this fun Bike-N-Brew cruise. This is the ultimate gift for someone who has always wanted to explore the iconic Flatirons and wildlife of Boulder, fueled by tastings of locally made gin, whisky, vodka, mead, or beer from each stop. This tour will take participants along a flat, paved creekside bike path for an easy ride between stops. This 3-4 hour ride is packed with fun, fitness, and fabulous spirits.  beyondboulderadventures.com – Boulder 

 20. Planks & Paint   

Crafty workshops – Broomfield  

Gift your loved one the experience of making something from scratch while learning a new skill. Planks & Paint offers a wide selection of fun and social workshops where you can learn to make crushed-glass art, signs and decor, resin art, and burn hats and decorate with wood flowers. planksandpaint.com  – 12716 Lowell Blvd, Broomfield

 21. Brewhop Trolley  

Brewery Tour

Longmont is home to some amazing brewing companies, and the Brewhop Trolley is a great way to try them all. In 2016, the Brewhop Trolley launched with a Hop-on + Hop-off loop that takes visitors to Longmont’s best tasting rooms. On this tour, visitors will get to explore the offerings from taprooms like Pumphouse Brewery, 300 Suns Brewing, Left Hand Brewing Company, and more. This is the ultimate gift experience for beer lovers!  brewhoptrolley.com – Longmont

Local Markets and Stores to Find Unique Gifts 

Although these places don’t have a specific gift item on our list, they’re a great place to discover unique and locally-made gifts that you may not have thought of before.  

 22. Old Friends 

This local Louisville gift store was opened in 2009 as a way to bring a little joy and laughter to the local community through fun cards and gifts. Fast forward 15 years and Old Friends is now a popular spot to find a unique gift. Browse through shelves of funky socks with Rocky Mountain-themed designs, fashionable jewelry, and plenty of other unique gift ideas with an emphasis on bringing joy.  oldfriendslouisville.com – 706 Front St, Louisville

 23. Boulder County Farmers Market

One of the best places to shop for local gifts is at the Boulder County Farmers Market. Twice a week, on Saturdays and Wednesdays, this market hosts a wide variety of local vendors and Colorado producers. This is the best place to visit if you’re looking for a foodies gift. Take a stroll through the market and browse through vendors selling products like fresh flowers, plants, cheese, and meat from the local farms. Your gift options are endless, with ideas like artisanal chocolate, locally-made honey, authentic pasta, decadent French cookies, and zesty pickles. bcfm.org/markets – 13th Street between Arapahoe Ave & Canyon Boulevard, Boulder 

 24. The Lafayette Flea

Thrift shopping is a great way to find a truly unique gift that matches the recipient’s personality and style. The Lafayette Flea in Lafayette is an exciting multi-dealer market that sells vintage, repurposed, and local goods inside what used to be a 60s bowling alley before being transformed into a flea market in the 1990s. Browse through an eclectic mix of clothing, funky jewelry, furniture, and other odds and ends you won’t find at a mass-produced commercial chain, which is why Lafayette Flea is a must-visit place for gift shopping.  thelafayetteflea.com – 130 East Spaulding Street, Lafayette

 25. Longmont Farmers Market 

Do some gift shopping at Longmont Farmer’s Market, which offers a fantastic farm-to-table experience. As a growers-only market, you’ll be able to purchase the freshest local produce, including freshly baked goods, Colorado meat, coffee beans, cheeses, spices, jewelry, and wine. You’ve got plenty of gift choices at this bustling market. bcfm.org/markets/longmont-farmers-market – 9595 Nelson Rd, Longmont

 BONUS! Niwot Market 

Do your gift shopping at one of the few locally-owned grocery stores in Colorado. The Niwot Market is a family-owned and operated store that is an integral part of the Niwot community. Stocking high-quality, healthy, and local products, there are plenty of great gifts waiting to be bought. There’s a wide variety of baked desserts that foodies will appreciate, natural beauty products, and handmade jewelry. Explore the tables of knick-knacks with gift ideas like candles and ceramics. niwotmarket.com – 7980 Niwot Rd, Niwot

Retailers Picks

by Yellow Scene staff

 1. Alpaca Connection

1334 Pearl St, Boulder • 303-447-2047 • alpacaConnection.us

The Pick: Handmade alpaca baby hats made by owner Lidia Holl. Price: $39.99. A luxurious alpaca wool coat with intricate embroidery, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern style.

Who It’s For: Fashion-forward and ethically conscious consumers.

Other Services: Alpaca clothing, boutique favorites, unique gifts, accessories, menswear.

 2. Boulder Philharmonic

boulderphil.org • 303-449-1343 • boulderphil.org

The Pick: Winter Wind’erland with Boulder Phil Woodwind Quintet.
Join us at charming Niwot Hall on December 10 at 6 PM for some of the season’s best merry-making: live holiday music, hands-on crafts, and cozy treats to warm your spirit!

Who It’s For: All members of the family.

Other Services: The Boulder Philharmonic offers a full season of concerts that bring our community together and keep the music alive. Student/children tickets are only $10 for most performances. Tickets at BoulderPhil.org • (303) 449-1343 • info@boulderphil.org

 3. Bricks Retail

512 4th Ave #103, Longmont • 720-680-0555 • bricksretail.com

The Pick: Sip and Shop!
Toast to holiday cheer while finding the perfect presents – because shopping for joy should be as delightful as giving it. Explore Bricks to find various gift options perfect for anyone on your list! Local shop with souvenirs, hats, shirts, candles, jewelry, toys/games and so much more. Open daily at 10am.

Who It’s For: Ideal for the holiday enthusiast who believes that every successful shopping spree deserves a celebratory cocktail!

Other Services: Gift wrapping, holiday events, gift baskets. Full food and bar at Miss Krissy’s.

 4. Energy Arts

1602 9th Ave, Longmont • 303-990-8990 • energyarts.com

The Pick: Taoist Breathing for Tai Chi and Meditation
A journey to EMBODY the Dao. Existing for more than 2,000 years, now in 250 languages, the Daodejing (Tao Te Ching) is a timeless classic. Ten years in the making and from a true insider’s perspective, passed to current lineage holder Bruce K. Frantzis by Liu Hung Chieh in the original oral tradition: “These are the words… this is what they mean… this is how to do what is proposed.” – Liu Hung Chieh, Daoist Sage.

Who It’s For: For those seeking wisdom: the Way and the Power, the philosopher in the family, and everyone you know with a spiritual bent.

Other Services: Qigong, Tai Chi, meditation, Ba Gua, Hsing-i, and Dao Yoga live classes, online programs, books, and DVDs.

 5. Frequent Flyers Aerial Dance Studio

3022 Sterling Cir Suite 150, Boulder • 303-245-8272 • frequentflyers.org

The Pick: Arts and Aerial Dance
Create and promote the magic of aerial dance through performance and education.

Who It’s For: Those who want to fly!

Other Services: Youth, teen and adult classes, performances, Aerial Dance Festival.

6. Groundworks Lab

3750 Canfield Street, Boulder • 720-379-6033 • groundworksmartlab.org

The Pick: The Annual Holiday Art Market, Dec. 13–14 from 10–5.
Come support local artists and stuff your stockings with handmade gifts for everyone on your list (throw in a lil’ something for yourself too, you deserve it).

Who It’s For: With many local artists participating, there’s sure to be something for everyone!

Other Services: Classes in wood, glass, print, clay and metal.

 7. Jax Outdoor Gear

900 South Highway 287, Lafayette • 720-266-6160 • jaxgoods.com

The Pick: Local Artisan Products
A collection of unique items crafted by local artisans, from bespoke outdoor gear to handcrafted farm and ranch supplies.

Who It’s For: Local explorer – for those appreciating the quality and authenticity of locally made products.

Other Services: Gear rentals, classes for outdoor adventures, top brand products, coffee bars, ice cream, and activities for kids.

 8. Larkridge Shopping Center

16542 Washington Street, Thornton • 303-595-9919 • shoplarkridge.com

The Pick: Your destination for shopping, dining, entertainment, and everyday services with more than 45 retailers. Here’s to a safe, healthy and happy holiday season!

 9. Longmont Downtown Development Association (LDDA)

320 Main St, Longmont • 303-651-8484 • downtownlongmont.com

The Pick: Downtown Longmont Gift Card
Downtown Longmont Gift Cards are the perfect gift! Send your loved ones on a choose-your-own-adventure of food, drink, shopping, personal services, and more in downtown Longmont!

Who It’s For: Downtown Longmont Gift Cards are the perfect gift for everyone! With more than 70 participating businesses, everyone on your list will find something they love.

 10. Longmont Museum

400 Quail Rd, Longmont • 303-651-8374 • longmontcolorado.gov/museum

The Pick: Cultural Center & Gift Shop
Discover everything the Longmont Museum has to offer, from world-class exhibitions to engaging events, programs and a local’s favorite gift shop.

Who It’s For: The curious, families, history buffs.

Other Services: Museum exhibits, retail gift shop. You can support the Longmont Museum by becoming a member, joining the giving club, making a donation, volunteering, or buying gift certificates.

 11. Longmont Theatre

513 Main St, Longmont • 303-772-5200 • longmonttheatre.org

The Pick: Local theatre company and performing arts center since 1957
Dedicated to enhancing our quality of life and fostering vibrant, active community engagement through all forms of the performing arts and live shared experiences.

Who It’s For: The theater or arts lover; local entertainment.

Other Services: Season passes, ticket sales, academy and venue rental.

 12. Motus Theater

P.O. Box 6080, Boulder • 720-432-2004 • motustheater.org

Storytelling is at the heart of what makes us human. We focus on bringing silenced histories and marginalized voices to the stage:

• Multimedia performances exploring U.S. history through the lens of race and class that expose what has been pushed to the margins of historical narratives.

• Autobiographical monologue performance projects with those whose voices have been marginalized and live on the frontlines of violence in our country.

By creating performances that illuminate foundational patterns of exploitation in U.S. history, and sharing autobiographical stories that disrupt false and dehumanizing narratives used to justify inhumane and exploitative policies, Motus supports cultural and policy shifts that uplift our shared humanity.

Tickets to a show make a great gift and we always appreciate donations.

13. Boulder Drum Shop

3070 28th Street, Ste. D, Boulder • 303-402-0122 • boulderdrumshop.com

The Pick: Yamaha Drums
Yamaha drums from Boulder Drum Shop, known for exceptional quality and durability, perfect for any genre.

Who It’s For: Rhythm maestro – for drummers seeking precision and versatility in their beats.

Other Services: Array of drums and ethnic percussion instruments, lessons, wide range of brands including Sonor, Pacific, Pearl, Ludwig.

 14. School of Rock Broomfield

West 120th Avenue Unit A & B, Broomfield • 303-325-3772 • schoolofrock.com/locations/broomfield

Drum • Guitar • Bass • Keyboard • Singing lessons

The gift of music can come in many forms, but at School of Rock Broomfield, it comes with stage performances. Our music programs for kids in Broomfield are designed to get students on stage performing, with the goal of building strong musical proficiency.

Valar-Aesthetics, Erie CO

 15. Valar Aesthetics

671 Mitchell Way Suite 210, Erie • 720-740-8980 • valarmedspa.com

The Glam Fam is our new and exciting loyalty program with TONS of great perks!
Dr. Bauer is certified in two Aesthetic Medicine Boards as well as Board Certified in Family Medicine. He has been practicing for more than a decade and brings all of his medical and aesthetic expertise to every encounter.

 16. Yellow Scene Magazine

Serving Boulder  County & the North Metro Region • yellowscene.com

The Pick: Independent local news magazine for Boulder County & the North Metro.
Give and Get Democracy – #newsCO needs.

Who It’s For: Those who care about truth and democracy.

Give & Get: When you support Yellow Scene, you strengthen democracy, keep truth accessible, and receive the magazine delivered to your home. Help us reach our goal of $5,000 — just 52 new sustaining supporters.
$8/month = $96 – fully matched during the campaign = $192.

Your contribution today ensures local journalism stays free, fearless, and people-powered. Give today and double your impact for independent news.

Other Services: Graphic design, advertising, online and event marketing, marketing consultations, SuperKids Expo event.

Restaurants

Busaba

133 S. McCaslin Blvd., Louisville
303-665-0330 • busabaco.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Taj Mahal III

1075 E. S. Boulder Rd., #145, Louisville
303-926-0999 • tajmahal3.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Jaipur Indian Restaurant

1800 Broadway Street, #160, Boulder
303-442-0999 • jaipurindianrestaurant.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Paul’s Coffee & Tea

956 W Cherry St #101, Louisville
720-259-1723 • paulscoffeeandtea.com

Gift Certificates, Gifts, Roasted Coffees and Teas

Ras Kassas

802 South Public Road, Lafayette
303-447-2919 • raskassas.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Colorado Mountain Kava

615 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont
720-833-6864 • instagram.com/mountainkava
Sober bar serving Kratom, Kava and other specialties.
Sober environment for parties, gift certificates, sober drinks.

The Sink

1165 13th St., Boulder
303-444-7465 • thesink.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

The ones who dared to fight City Hall.

When Boulder denied public access to police body-cam footage, we took it to court. Our fight for transparency is now before the Colorado Supreme Court — because accountability doesn’t stop at the city line.

Through December 31, every gift to Yellow Scene will be matched — dollar for dollar — through the Colorado Media Project’s Matching Grant.Give & Get Democracy this Holiday Season. Your $8 recurring monthly support not only gets you YS delivered to your house, but it’s matched for the entire year, bringing that $8/month to $192. 

Because Independent journalism isn’t just about telling stories. It’s about protecting your right to know, holding power accountable, and keeping democracy in the light. This is #newsCOneeds Becoming a sustaining supporter today for $8 a month! 

The post Locavore Gift Guide: How To Never Shop Corporate Again appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

YS paired together nearly 50 restaurants to create several different multi-course tasting experiences – with a twist!

When we decided to pair together 10 different tastings across BOCO and the North Metro, enlist 10 writers, coordinate numerous chefs, and bring along photographers, we initially thought we may have bit off more than we could chew. With dogged determination, a flurry of scheduling, and plenty of incredible options across the area, it all came together more perfectly than we initially imagined. What resulted was a culinary journey taking us through a three course meal with drink pairings to boot.

Each menu was organized around a main dish or ingredient — from corn to beef loins, from fresh seafood to smoky cocktails — taking us on an indulgent trip across counties. Follow in the footsteps of this extraordinary collaboration or simply live vicariously through the descriptions and photos of some of our favorite spots to eat, drink, and simply enjoy what our area has to offer. We were blown away by what local chefs and mixologists prepared, and cannot wait to share it with you.

Pairing #1

BY: Deb Cameron

This tasting slate was custom designed to show the bounty and abundance available from chefs, winemakers, and mixologists at the top of their game in Boulder. While I was never surprised with the caliber of each piece of the meal, I was delighted by something else — how chefs connected with corn, one of the supporting ingredients in the featured dish.

I look forward to corn each summer, and I’m currently growing heirloom varieties in my garden. In this pairing, corn purée was the base for scallops and pork belly, toasted corn was a key component of the artisanal mezcal in my cocktail, and popcorn as part of panna cotta in my dessert. The wine selections complemented the flavors and ingredients while the appetizer contrasted the sweetness of the corn with vivid, dramatic flavors.

Toasted Popcorn Panna Cotta with Plums held by Andrea Uzarowski of Süti. Photo by Judi Morell

Roots | Longmont – Papri chaat
“India is all about roadside snacks, and I’m representing only one, which is very popular in the northern part of India. It’s one of my favorite street snacks,” said Chef Madhoo of Roots, which has recently taken over the Dickens Opera House space on Main Street in Old Town Longmont and also operates a predominant catering presence in the state. She prepared a snack consisting of 12 components: spiced garbanzo beans seasoned with peppers, turmeric and roasted peppers, sweet and spicy tamarind, chopped cilantro, yogurt, mint chutney, fried garbanzo bean made in house from noodles, papri puffed crackers. After tasting, the spice of the flavors popped first, followed by the creaminess of the yogurt, freshness of the mint, and the crunch of the garbanzo beans. Light and satisfying, it made an exciting entry into the rest of the meal.

Farow | Niwot – Artisanal corn-based mezcal cocktail
Since opening two years ago, Farow has received a lot of attention for its commitment to creatively using hyper-local fresh and delicious ingredients. There are even hopes that Farow may be in contention for a green Michelin star, to be announced later this fall. While we love the restaurant’s approach to food, we’re also paying attention to its bar program. Mixologists Johnnie Adair and Noah Elkind have recently been asked to showcase their work in the Flor de Caña Most Sustainable Bartender challenge, as well as at the semifinals of the Woodford Reserve Manhattan Experience in San Francisco. Their creation for our challenge was made with mezcal infused with roasted corn. The drink was then rimmed with a brick-red lime pepper that was reminiscent of Tajín. Bright and beautiful in cut glass, it was possible to taste the corn in the drink, which contrasted with the lime and slight burn from the alcohol. The drink was the perfect choice, with spice that blends with both the main course and the heat in the appetizer.

SALT | Boulder – Pan-seared sea scallops and pork belly
As one of the highlights of SALT’s dinner menu, this dish is decadent and rich — what you’d expect from generous servings of scallop and thick, toast-sized portions of pork belly. The corn purée made a satisfying platform for both flavors and complemented the vegetables, including green beans, red peppers, and spinach. I requested some bread to sop up every last drop. I suggest you do the same.

Bookcliff Vineyards | Boulder and Palisade – 2022 Rosé and 2022 Syrah
Bookcliff has been at the forefront of Colorado-based winemaking for years. Providing options for two wines — either the rosé or the syrah, both of them matched with the main dish in different ways: The lighter rosé played much better with the seafood, offset the corn, and complemented the flavors of the dessert. The darker syrah made magic with the richer, smokier pork belly flavors. We don’t suggest anyone choose between them. Enjoy both if you can.

Toasted Popcorn Panna Cotta with Plums from Süti. Photo by Judi Morell

Süti & Co. | Boulder – Toasted popcorn panna cotta with plums
Andrea Uzarowski dove into this challenge, creating a complex but still light dessert that included corn panna cotta matched with plum, pistachio, and cacao nibs all dressed with bright edible flowers. The combination worked — the richness of the panna cotta acting as a call back to the corn, pork belly, and scallops in the main dish. But the bright plum with a hint of rich cacao, was a perfect finish to the meal.

Pairing #2

BY: Deb Cameron

It’s always exciting to explore options that are available in my hometown. I moved to Erie about six years ago and since then have delighted in watching how the food scene has evolved. For this challenge, I was able to access almost all of the locations on the list by foot or bike, except for Rumbo 52, which was just a short drive away. The proximity of this amount of community, entertainment, and culinary variety is one of the draws of the town. Area family and friends agree.

Ceviche from Rumbo 52. Photo by Paul Guise

Rumbo 52 Cochina and Cantina | Frederick – Ceviche Tuna Tartare
The appetizer was provided by chef and restaurant owner Fausto Felix who has shown a talent for bringing authentic Mexican and Latin American fare to the area. His most recent venture combines a location that previously housed both a diner and an Italian spot into a beautiful and comfortable destination for Latin American cuisine. His ceviche tuna tartare makes a fitting companion to Piripi’s seafood paella. It includes fresh yellow tuna, serrano peppers, grape tomatoes, shaved tomatillos, and mandarin orange in a light chipotle mayo. It was spicy but didn’t burn your tastebuds.

Smokin’ Scotsman & Green Tea dual cocktails from Erie Social Club. Photo by Paul Guise

Erie Social Club | Erie – Smokin Scotsman & Green Tea Cocktail
Erie Social Club also provided the cocktail, something which they gave so much thought to that they couldn’t decide between two of them, so they provided both. The first we tasted was a Smokin’ Scotsman, made with scotch whiskey, simple syrup, lemon, and rosemary. The smoke, in this case, came from charred lemon and rosemary on top of the drink. As it was being charred, it imbued the area within the glass with the heady campfire aroma that quickly reminded me of the fires under the paella, particularly the smoked sausages in Piripi’s mixta version. Alternately, the Green Tea Cocktail was made with housemade green tea, vodka, lavender simple syrup, and lemon. It’s the brightness that I could see pairing with either the vegetarian or seafood versions.

Paella from Piripi. Photo by Deborah Cameron

Piripi | Erie – Paella
Paella is luxurious, satisfying, and flavorful. It’s also not made quickly. Piripi’s chef owner Hugo Meyer told us it can take up to four days to prepare for paella nights at the restaurant, where they serve seafood, vegetarian, and mixta variations on the first Monday of each month. This rice dish is made better with high-quality ingredients including specialty grains, high-quality saffron, and the best seafood or meats possible. My favorite part of any paella is the socarrat, the caramelization of the rice at the bottom of the dish that occurs if the rice isn’t over stirred. It’s chewy, savory, and incredibly satisfying. To me, it’s the gold at the end of a pan of goodness, and Piripi’s is reliable.

Columna Albarino wine from Erie Social Club

Erie Social Club | Erie – Columna Albarino
The Spanish albarino suggested by Erie Social Club had a mineral quality that bartender Kelly Rahm felt would match well with the paella. She shared that this wine was grown in the Rias Baixas region of Spain, which is more inland, and it lent an earthiness to the wine. There was a lemony quality that made it an especially good choice to pair with paella. What was in the glass tasted rich, complex, and interesting. It not only held its own against the food, in turn, the food enhanced the flavors of the wine.

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake from Stacy’s Kitchen. Photo by Kenneth Wajda

Stacy’s Kitchen | Erie – Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
I first heard about Stacy Gustafson online when her social media fans besieged her with orders for decadent pies at holiday time, so it was great news to hear that she had opened her own shop on Cheeseman Street. For this pairing, she made one of her signature desserts, a cinnamon roll cheesecake which is often featured at the shop. The cheesecake was as rich as I had expected, but the crunch of the cinnamon filling stood out. The texture and richness held its own rather than being lost in the cheesecake’s creaminess. With the body of the cheesecake and the richness of the flavor combinations, this is every bit a statement end to the challenge meal.

Pairing #3

BY: Chris Curtis

Lobster Ravioli from Boulder Cork. Photo by Chris Curtis

The Boulder Cork | Boulder – Lobster Ravioli
Perfecting the art of indulgence since 1969, walking into The Boulder Cork feels like entering your best friend’s house. An intricate floor plan of rooms, exposed beams, and antique furniture all contribute to the atmosphere while the friendly staff made me feel like a regular. With thirty years of experience behind every dish, the chef sent out the lobster ravioli appetizer. I didn’t need to know much more than lobster for my anticipation to soar, but hand roll them in house made pasta, cover them with sun dried tomatoes and fresh herbs from the restaurant’s very own on-site garden, and I knew I would be hooked. The fresh herbs provided texture to the dish and the pasta arrived at a perfect al dente. I could easily see and taste that my night of indulgence just set sail for this long anticipated evening.

The Boulder Cork | Boulder – The Last Ferry
The bar at The Boulder Cork draws your eyes right to it when you walk through the doors. Dark wood juxtaposed against a well lit backsplash of carefully laid cream colored flagstone, beckons you to come to it and sit for a moment. The masterful mixologist indulged my request for a cocktail to pair with my incredible lobster ravioli appetizer and what arrived at my table couldn’t have been more perfect. Made with a base of Drumshanbo slow distilled gunpowder Irish gin, lime, lemon sorbet, prosecco, a hint of maple, and basil from the on-site garden, this citrusy delight brought a bright, flowery nose that balanced out the rich lobster ravioli. Aptly named The Last Ferry as a nod to the coast, I found myself amused that this last ferry kicked off my evening of indulgence in a bubbly way.

Heirloom Tomato and Beef Loin from Bramble & Hare. Photo by Chris Curtis

Bramble & Hare | Boulder – Heirloom tomato and beef loin
Opening the front door of Bramble and Hare I’m met by black curtains hiding the interior of the restaurant which, when pulled aside, creates the effect of going down a rabbit hole. Dark wood and warm lighting reveal intimate tables and I’m quick to notice faux pelts adorning the backs of some of the chairs. Knowing that Bramble and Hare runs a four hundred and twenty-five acre farm just outside of Boulder makes my mind race as to what delight awaits me. Much to my enjoyment, a dish created around heirloom tomatoes, quite possibly picked that very day based on how they tasted, arrived. My eyes and nose could hardly process all that awaited me. Creamy polenta, braised celery, sautéed kale, beef loin, parmesan cheese crackers, and a side of marinated tomatoes composed this textural masterpiece. Acidic, creamy, light and rich all at once, I no sooner blinked and it was gone.

Élevé from Snowy Peaks Winery. Photo by Chris Curtis

Snowy Peaks Winery | Estes Park – Élevé
Offering award-winning, hand crafted wines made from Colorado grown grapes, Erik and Candice Mohr endeavor to bring a taste of Colorado to your glass. To enhance my heirloom tomato and beef loin entrée, I found myself sipping on Élevé, a blend of Syrah, Petite Syrah, and Mourvedre. It definitely lived up to its name, being high in flavor, complexity, and indulgence. A hopeless fan of red blends, I enjoyed the boldness and spice of the Syrahs while at the same time appreciating the dark berry flavors of the Mourvedre. I imagined it shaking hands with the beef loin and joyfully tussling a bit with the acidity of the fresh heirloom tomatoes, all tempered by the polenta and parmesan crackers. Snowy Peaks now lives on my list of wineries to try and I can’t wait to see what more they have to offer.

Sticky Toffee Pudding from Jill’s Restaurant and Bistro. Photo by Chris Curtis

Jill’s Restaurant and Bistro | Boulder – Sticky toffee pudding
Hurtling towards an indulgent food induced nap, Jill’s Restaurant and Bistro, located in the St. Julien Hotel and Spa and an easy walk from my main course restaurant, perked me right up! Tall ceilings, bright lights, and that bustling bistro vibe all came together to energize me. What awaited me made all my dessert dreams come true. Sticky Toffee Pudding. I’ve always been fascinated by this dessert because what appears on the surface to be so simple, reveals itself to be a complex process. A classic British dessert, it’s made with chopped dates and toffee sauce. A light sponge, a perfect bake, and a balance of flavors form the base of the desert. It’s then smothered in a caramel sauce and Jill’s tops theirs with a creamy whiskey brickle ice cream. What sets this treat apart, however, can be found in the very tiny and crunchy garnish that brings an additional and delightful texture to the dish. A perfect end to an incredible evening. 

Pairing #4

BY: Sam Gilstrap

Familiar flavors came together in unexpected ways to present a fresh take on a family meal reminiscent of Italy. The main course was Cimini’s Pesto Crusted Salmon, with everything else catered around that flavor profile.Fresh tastes of pesto, strong cheese, and a surprising desert all made for a fantastic culinary journey you should recreate on your own.

Burrata from Jax Fish House. Photo by Sam Gilstrap

Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar | Boulder – Burrata
From their Charred Spanish Octopus with a lovely light tomato and red pepper confit to the Fried New England Calamari with sensational lime aioli to the Ahi Tuna Poke with serrano spice and fun mouth feel, the starter options at Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar are to be savored — especially this writer’s personal favorite, the Burrata. This version closes the summer with English pea gremolata and hibiscus reduction that synced up perfectly with the Pesto Crusted Salmon. The richness of these flavors is inspiring, especially as the smooth and creamy burrata cheese ties everything together atop a crispy pasta cracker! Hurry and try it before fall comes and the Burrata changes with the season.

Snowy Peaks Winery | Estes Park –  Mourvèdre
Mourvèdres make excellent pairings with strong cheeses – like burrata – or fatty meats – such as salmon. Snowy Peaks’ Mourvèdre is no exception. At first whiff, the cherry jam and spices take you to the vineyards of the Rhône. While this wine may be a bit more boozier than most, the bright berries, especially alongside the Pesto Crusted Salmon, hide that booziness and highlight the light pepper finish. There is a leathery quality to the tannins, which provide a rapturous mouth feel without distracting from the elevated tastes surrounding you. By the end you may even discover the lovely earthy notes of vanilla and chocolate. If you typically lean towards Cabernet Sauvignon, you’ll find a friend in Snowy Peaks Winery’s Mourvèdre.

Pesto-crusted Salmon from Cimmini’s. Photo by Sam Gilstrap

Cimmini’s Italian Restaurant | Niwot – Pesto Crusted Salmon
The familiar elegance of Cimmini’s Italian Restaurant in Niwot makes for a relaxing and savory experience. With the Pesto Crusted Salmon at the helm of this main course, you are presented with a decadent slice of familiar comfort. The salmon flakes perfectly with just a touch of a fork and almost melts in your mouth. A piquant pesto cream is generously applied to the outside of a sheet-baked cut of salmon covered with a crunchy breading. The texture alone reminds me of home. Couple that with buttered asparagus spears resting on angel hair pasta, and the whole course sings. The craft behind building community through food is at the forefront of Cimmini’s mission. And makes this an excellent spot to visit regularly for a family dinner experience.

Reposado Old Fashioned from Dry Land Distillers. Photo by Sam Gilstrap

Dry Land Distillers | Longmont – Reposado Old Fashioned
With rich and savory dishes, one must cleanse the palate with more earthy tones. Dry Land Distillers in Longmont and their Cactus Reposado Old Fashioned does just the trick. At first sip, a sweetness greets the tongue, and soon the back of the throat is caressed by peaty overtones. With an eco-conscious focus at Dry Land, our desire to return to the earth is never more evident than in this cocktail. You want something spirit forward to cut through and elevate the velvety pesto and cheese already seducing your taste buds, but you also want something that grounds you. The knowledge and craft demonstrated by the staff here and Dry Land’s Cactus is that stabilizing force.

Landline Doughnuts | Longmont – Palisade Peach Donut
For dessert I hope you saved room for light, melt-in-your-mouth donuts! But not just any donuts, no sir. These are made with potatoes, which makes them fluffier than Landline’s counterparts. This donut in particular has a lovely cream cheese frosting that provides a delicate tang opposite the juicy Palisade peaches that adorn this confection like a noble crown. It is indeed the perfect cap to an excellent meal, and the OZO Coffee Company cold brew gives a little lift to get you home in spite of the food coma. These meals and pairings reminded me of my past and the importance food and drink have played in those memories. Here at Landline Doughnuts, that reverie is not out of place. Their donuts are a vehicle to a happier place in time in your life and remind you to call mom.

Pairing #5

BY: William Underhill

Lafayette offered a complete culinary adventure filled with surprising pies, perfectly poured wines and great ambience. Everything was based around the impeccable Pork Tenderloin from Community Supper Club. Every chef and mixologist was able to create a compliment to this tender, melt-in-your-mouth dish. Beginning and ending with pastry showed the versatility of what you can bake, whether its sweet or savory.

NZ Ground Beef Pie from Tip Top Savory Pies. Photo by William Underhill

Tip Top Savory Pies – | Lafayette – NZ Ground Beef Pie
I started my day of culinary touring around Lafayette at Tip Top, who had prepared a wonderful savory pie to pair with the entree we planned to indulge in later. I  was excited, as, like many of the restaurants in Lafayette, I  had always heard wonderful things about Tip Top and eagerly wanted to know more. After I sat down at the solitary plastic table just in front of the counter, I  dug in and nearly lost myself in the food. I was expecting charming little pies with simple flavors and a decent crust. What I got, however, exceeded expectations tenfold. The NZ Ground Beef Pie is a rich, saucy, deeply savory pie with a shatteringly crisp, buttery crust. The ground beef filling is incredible on its own, similar to the filling one might find in a sloppy joe but with more delicate flavors, a little less sweetness, and more pronounced tomato notes. I  intended to talk a bit as we ate, but found myself nearly unable to speak  as I  became engrossed in the deceptively small pies.  I did not expect to leave as full and happy as I  did, and I can confidently say that Tip Top is one of the best restaurants I’ve ever dined at.

Marzen Beer from Liquid Mechanics. Photo by William Underhill

Liquid Mechanics Brewery Co. | Lafayette – Marzen Beer
Walking in from the parking lot, with the hot sun on my back, I was able to see just how seriously Liquid Mechanics take their craft. There were barrels up to the windows, stacked alongside all sorts of brewery equipment that I couldn’t identify. For pairing with the pork tenderloin from Community Supper Club, they chose a Marzen, an Oktoberfest, or sometimes simply called a ‘Fest’ beer, with a rich, subtle sweetness that contrasted beautifully with the saltiness and slight bitterness of Community’s excellent dish. Though I myself have not had much beer before, the Marzen from Liquid Mechanics is so good that my inexperience posed no obstacle to my enjoyment. It is, as said before, slightly sweet and a bit caramely, light on the palate, and easy and refreshing to drink.

Pork Tenderloin from Community Supper Club. Photo by William Underhill

Community Supper Club | Lafayette – Pork Tenderloin
I sat down at Community Supper Club after a long day of dining at restaurants all around Lafayette and somehow felt immediately welcome. The lights were cool and calming, and our server was extraordinarily kind and accommodating. I indulged in some of the best food I  had ever eaten. The pork tenderloin, chosen for me by Community’s Culinary Coordinator JV Hernandez, is a harmonious symphony of textures and flavors, with perfectly tender pork and potatoes delicately balanced with crunchy chips, sour-yet-sweet cherries, and sprigs of parsley. When  I finished my meal  my energy had somehow gone from a bit tired, weary after a long day, to energized and happy, a testament to the quality of our food here.

True Story Pinot Noir from /pôr/ wine house. Photo by William Underhill

/pôr/ wine house | Louisville – True Story Pinot Noir by William Snowden
Last, I took the bus to /pôr/ wine house in Louisville, spying it’s wonderful decor out of a cloudy plastic window. Even from my questionably clean bus seat, I was able to tell that /pôr/ was a wonderful place — the sort of chic, modern restaurant that comes to mind whenever one thinks of date night or any sort of celebratory dinner. Of their absolutely incredible selection of wines and liquors, the one served to me — William Snowden’s True Story Pinot Noir — is absolutely delightful, sweet, and refreshing. It was a perfect contrast to the pork tenderloin from Community. Not only is the wine itself delightful but so is the story behind it. As I drank, the owner of /pôr/ told me how the name, True Story, is a reference to Mr. Snowden’s boisterous nature. He’s the sort of person to introduce all sorts of tales with, “True story, but ….” /pôr/ is a delightful establishment, with all sorts of liquors that, just like the one I enjoyed, are great to taste and rich with interesting stories.

Peach Palisade from Button Rock. Photo by William Underhill

Button Rock Bakery | Lafayette – Peach Palisade
Next, I headed over to Button Rock Bakery, a quaint restaurant that had prepared a desert to pair with the other dishes. Walking in, I  saw counters of  impeccably decorated cakes near the front entrance, the smell of baked pastries wafting over to us from the rest of the restaurant. The food at Button Rock not only smells and looks incredible, but has a taste to match. They  feature a whole variety of rich, sweet, comforting baked goods prepared with the utmost care. Among these is the Peach Palisade, an almost unbelievable dish: layers of thick, crunchy pastry balanced atop layers of cream and semi-frozen peaches, with cream and jam on the side. The dish presents a wonderful textural and flavor contrast, the crispness of the pastry pairing perfectly with the smooth creaminess of the filling, and sweetness with just a little bit of tart from the jam.

Pairing #6

BY: Rona Goody

Unwinding after a hot afternoon full of Boulder summer fun calls for complex yet uplifting tastes to mirror the area’s diverse recreational offerings, perfect for Mediterranean-themed cuisine. Whether you’ve been parasailing over the foothills or strolling Pearl Street after helping your youngest set up their first-year dorm room, Boulder’s culinary creatives are ready for you.

Steak & Raisin Dolmas from Spruce Farm & Fish. Photo by Kenneth Wajda

Spruce Farm &  Fish | Boulder – Steak & Raisin Dolmas
Next, head up to the Boulderado’s ground-level Spruce Farm & Fish for a totally different atmosphere. Need a spot for a career-changing dinner meeting? Yes! Looking for a place to relax with old friends? Also yes! The Steak & Raisin Dolmas are an ancient Mediterranean dish reconceptualized by veteran chef Mike Thom, one of Boulder’s most experienced local experts in delish. Thom’s dolmas are a revelation, very herb- and fruit-forward, with a light and refreshing take on tzatziki. You may or may not be able to go back to your favorite conventional deli dolmades after this, because Thom’s are in a class apart, but luckily, the recipe is available below!

Chameroon from License No. 1. Photo by Kenneth Wajda

License No. 1 | Boulder – Chameroon
First stop: the classic yet cutting-edge Hotel Boulderado, built in 1909, for a Hemingway masterpiece of a cocktail by head bartender Jonathan Morse at the swanky downstairs bar, License No. 1. The Chameroon (pronounced with a “k” sound), a riff on the Martinez and named for a cigar wrapper style, has a bouquet that whets the appetite. With ingredients such as Turkish tobacco bitters, the apple-based brandy known as Calvados, and Chamomile-infused gin, its finely balanced, long-lasting hints of earth, spice, and fruit engage every sense on the palate. You’ll want to take your time, not least because of the exquisite web of tastes connecting the Chameroon with the evening’s appetizer and main dish.

Lamb Shank from Gemini. Photo by Kenneth Wajda

Gemini | Boulder – Lamb Shank
Just as the sun begins to set, walk west along the mall to Gemini for one of the finest yet down-to-earth dining experiences you’ve had in a long time. Perfect for a special date or for taking the family out for no particular reason, everything about Gemini is infused with clear intentions. From its care in selecting local ingredients, to its ethically sourced wine list, a meal at the family-owned and -operated Gemini feels great, ethically and gastronomically. As the warm shadows lengthen in the sunset and you soak in the sounds of musicians and kids playing on the mall, treat yourself to a symphony: an osso bucco–style crosscut of mellow lamb shank harmonized with some tart Western Slope cherries, delicately roasted carrots, the groundedness of walnuts, and a subtle surprise of cilantro. This is an entree you will not want to end.

Redstone Meadery | Boulder –  Traditional Mountain Honey Wine
Yet, nothing lasts forever, which is why you will have already purchased a bottle from master brewer David Myers’s Redstone Meadery for a combination nightcap and dessert aperitif! Try the Rum Barrel Aged Traditional Mountain Honey Wine, a new addition to Redstone Meadery’s extensive list of handcrafted meads, both honey wines and nectars. With this drink, Redstone has taken its distinctive barrel-aging in a new direction by aging its award-winning Traditional Mountain Honey Wine in rum barrels. Come for the notes of tropical fruit at the front of your palate at first sip, and stay for the warm and spicy tones in the middle, all sustained by an atmosphere of oaky rum. An experience for the ages, in the comfort of your own abode.

Pairing #7

BY: Tony Firestine

The culinary landscape of Longmont and the surrounding areas has grown exponentially in the past few years. Visiting five area restaurants/bars in a single afternoon was the challenge, and I was up for the task at hand. Ready to indulge, I put on my loose pants and headed north. What I discovered were just a handful of the culinary gems that the Longmont area has to offer.

Pomegranate Salad from Raglin.

Raglin Market | Boulder – Pomegranate Salad
After taking a brief detour off the Diagonal Highway on the way to Longmont, I land in Boulder’s neighboring Gunbarrel, and my first stop on the tour d’indulgence is Raglin Market. This is where the team behind Boulder’s French cuisine staple, Mateo, serve up fresh salads, sandwiches, and snacks for lunch and happy hour in a comfortable fast-casual setting alongside a handful of artfully curated classic cocktails, old-world wine selections, and local craft beer. Raglin’s Pomegranate Salad starts the expedition off right with a bright display of farm fresh ingredients, all on a bed of freshly harvested greens from Esoterra Culinary Garden. Raglin does their best to source both produce and meat within 50 miles of the restaurant. The pomegranate seeds burst and intermingle with the pepperiness of raw red onion and the brittle crunch of candied pecans. Specks of lush feta cheese dot the dish and even out the array of vivid flavors.

Bada Bing Cocktail from West Side Tavern.

West Side Tavern | Longmont – Bada Bing Cocktail
Longmont’s West Side Tavern is the perfect definition of a gastropub: an eclectic menu in a lively and unique setting rounded out by an awe-inspiring spirits list and a crew of bartenders to mix you just the right cocktail. Raglin’s pomegranate salad needed bright and piquant flavors to work alongside it for a faultless pairing, and West Side’s Bada Bing cocktail did not disappoint. A base of vodka is married to a lavish cherry balsamic shrub, rosemary syrup, and topped with a flamed rosemary garnish. Take a sip before the smoke settles. The sprig of rosemary is still crackling, and you get the combination of bold scarlet fruit and campfire aroma. If you tend to go for the brown stuff, the colossal whiskey selection is sublime and stays under lock and key in an old curio adjacent to the bar.

Bistro Steak from Sugarbeet.

Sugarbeet | Longmont – Bistro Steak
Located in Old Town Longmont, Sugarbeet has become an institution over the more than a decade and a half it’s been a beacon of modern American cuisine. The current owners took over about seven years ago and continue in the tradition of high-quality cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere. Their Bistro Steak is the perfect centerpiece of my indulgence journey; an elevated take on the classic steak frites. The plate is lined with tender baby kale and dollops of sauce Colbert, enriched with egg yolk and demi-glace similar to a hollandaise. The shoulder tender steak is rich and succulent and cooked perfectly to your liking; I went for medium rare. The pommes paillasson are grated and pressed, formed and cut into frites, fried in duck fat until crisp on the outside and unctuous on the inside, and topped with a light grating of truffled pecorino cheese, which adds a subtle earthiness to the dish. With a divine and creative kitchen, the hospitality needs to match the food, and Sugarbeet does this well; co-owner Ari Kara greets guests from behind the bar and remembers recurring guests by name. Regular appellation-focused wine dinners are a highlight for Sugarbeet’s perfect amalgamation of warmth, creativity, and celebration of artisan food and drink.

Avignonesi Rosso di Montepulciano from Küper Wine Bar.

Küper Wine Bar | Longmont – Avignonesi Rosso di Montepulciano
Wine from every part of the world goes into the diverse and distinctive selection at Küper Wine Bar. Owners Doug and Julie Oldfield curate a cozy space where you can lounge over nibbles and discover all that the world of wine has to offer. We found the consummate pairing for Sugarbeet’s Bistro Steak in Avignonesi Rosso di Montepulciano, an appellation from southern Tuscany vinified 100% from the Sangiovese grape. The mouth-watering acidity and bright red fruit notes cut into the rich sauce, and the rustic character of the wine matches the savory and succulent quality of the steak. This wine also drinks great on its own. If you’re feeling adventurous, build your own charcuterie board to go along with your wine flight. Or, join one of two tiers of their wine club where membership includes invites to private and exclusive events.

Raspberry Cheesecake from Longmont Bakery.

Longmont Bakery | Longmont – Raspberry Cheesecake
Who doesn’t deserve a decadent treat every now and again (and again)? Longmont Bakery has been a mecca of everything sweet and indulgent in Longmont for the past two years, and the owners bring decades of baking experience to the table. I found a slice of their silky cheesecake to be the perfect ending to my indulgent excursion. This little bit of heaven is both fluffy and rich, topped with a vivid raspberry swirl and airy whipped cream. The cases are filled with pastries every day: eclairs, cannoli, cream puffs, cookies, macaroons, and too many flavors of cake slices to mention. Order ahead and have them create a custom celebration cake with the perfect design or have them bake the perfect pie for your holiday festivities. They not only deal in the sugary side of things, but they bake more than a dozen types of bread on site, supplying a few local restaurants and serving sandwiches on their fresh loaves for the lunchtime crowd.

Pairing #8

BY: Cristina Trapani-Scott

There are so many wonderful restaurants in Boulder County. Choosing one can be difficult, but perhaps there’s no need to make a choice. On a recent weekend I took a culinary journey — one progressive dinner, five great Boulder County spots.

Garlic Mojo Baked Crackerjax Oysters from The Post. Photo by Cristina Trapani-Scott

The Post | Boulder – Garlic Mojo Baked Crackerjax Oysters
I must admit, while I’ve had my fair share of oysters, I’ve had nothing quite like the Garlic Mojo Baked Crackerjax Oysters at The Post. They are less oysters and more silky-smooth bites of heaven on a half shell. It’s no wonder these were featured on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.” They made a perfect start to my Boulder County culinary crawl.  According to manager Garrett Parsell, the oysters are brought in daily from the Chesapeake Bay area to ensure their freshness. What I loved about these was not only how fresh they tasted but how their smooth texture allowed the light lime and garlic of the mojo to have their moment. Toasted breadcrumbs topped each half shell, adding a garlic butter crunch that left me savoring the dish for a while after.

Kneebone Pils from Cellar West. Photo by Cristina Trapani-Scott

Cellar West Artisan Ales | Lafayette – Kneebone Pils
With a beautiful open space and a friendly staff, Cellar West is a great spot to get a cold lager to pair with any of The Post appetizers, especially the oysters. Founder and brewer Zach Nichols suggested the Kneebone Pils, the brewery’s flagship pilsner, as a pairing. What a perfect choice. I was immediately taken by the flavor, the spicy bitterness rounded out by a refreshing splash of honey. It balanced well with the garlic and lime of the oysters. Eric Eckhart, who is on staff at the brewery, said Kneebone is a classic German pilsner, one of the closest to a traditional pilsner he has tasted in a long time. He said this is one of his go-to beers, and he always keeps cans of it in his fridge when it’s available. Nichols founded the brewery in 2016 with his wife, Rachel, in a garage space in Boulder. They opened their Lafayette location two years later. Kneebone Pils speaks to that location, as it is named after the Kneebone Open Space nearby. This particular pilsner definitely exhilarates my palate, and I’ll also be snagging some to keep in my fridge.

Chicken Tikka Masala, Chicken Korma, and Saag Paneer from Taj Mahal III. Photo by Kenneth Wajda

Taj Mahal III | Louisville – Chicken Tikka Masala, Chicken Korma, and Saag Paneer
If the constant flow of regulars coming on a Friday night isn’t proof enough that this is some of the best Indian food around, then trust me — it absolutely is. The thick classic curry sauce in the chicken korma was like a blanket of savory goodness on my tongue. The coriander and cumin balanced to give the dish a hint of sweetness at the end of each delicious bite, and the chicken was tender and packed full of flavor. How about that tikka masala? I’m a sucker for garlic and thick creamy tomato sauce. This definitely was a savory delight with more of that tender chicken, but I kept coming back to the creamy saag paneer with the pillowy house-made cheese. Never has spinach melted in my mouth so deliciously. Finally, I’m a dipper, and there was nothing better than dipping the perfectly crisp garlic naan in each of these wonderful dishes. It’s easy to see why people come back time and time again for these popular plates.

Orin Swift Locations New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc from R Gallery + Wine Bar. Photo by Cristina Trapani-Scott

R Gallery + Wine Bar | Boulder – Orin Swift Locations New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc
This is the perfect place to find yourself post-entree in a progressive food crawl. Owner Rob Lantz curates his wine and beer with the care he gives to the artwork in his gallery. He also has a wonderful way of knowing specifically which wines will pair with all kinds of foods. In my case, he thoughtfully paired my classic Indian main dish with a fresh and clean sauvignon blanc. This was the perfect choice with its light hint of grapefruit and essence of grass. The flavors balanced well with the creamy savory dishes I’d enjoyed. Lantz said that, in his experience, this particular wine not only enhances the flavors of the food, but it elevates it. I understood clearly what he meant after my first sip. The Orin Swift Locations wines are created by David Phinney, one of Lantz’s favorite wine makers. The grapes for this come from the Marlboro region of New Zealand, which is known for its sauvignon blanc wines. “This wine has more meat and substance than a lot of sauv blancs from that region,” Lantz said. “This one, in particular, is a step above, in my opinion.” I am sure to return for another glass soon.

Dessert Bento from Japango. Photo by Cristina Trapani-Scott

Japango | Boulder – Dessert Bento
Capping off my progressive crawl with a Dessert Bento at Japango felt like the perfect ending to my journey. After all the delicious food and drinks I’d taken in, I was ready for something sweet and light, and Japango delivered. The dessert bento offered a beautiful array of small and light sweet treats starting with the Akuma Cake, a devil’s food cake topped with Glacier’s sea salt ice cream drizzled with fudge and caramel and garnished with a savory sesame brittle. This was perhaps the most decadent part of the box but small enough to satisfy me without overwhelming me. The Thin Mint Truffles combined the creamy richness of a dark chocolate truffle with the sharp cool mint of those familiar cookies we all know and love. The box also came with a choice of different-flavored mochi from Mochidoki, including green tea, strawberry, habanero chocolate, black pepper, and lychee. I got the green tea, and it was my last refreshing bite of the crawl. The light sweet tea, the cool cream, and the tender rice dough made for a perfect ending to the perfectly delicious restaurant pairings.

Pairing #9

BY: C.R. Dallas

Out-of-this-world appetizers to down-to-earth comfort food, these flavors speak to the breadth of what Boulder County has to offer. Citrus, smoke, butter, and cream, this procession of ingredients was a symphony of flavors trumpetting atop a deep bassline of comfort and satisfaction — with ambiance to boot.

Moroccan Grilled Zucchini from Outworld Brewing. Photo by Dallas Dorman

Outworld Brewing | Longmont – Moroccan Grilled Zucchini
Outworld Brewing crash landed into the brewpub scene in early 2020, though hip creatives will find them anything but alien. Boasting a cantina-style private lounge, cosplaying customers, a science fiction book club, and an array of meals and microbrews that would make even a Vulcan blush with excitement, Outworld brings an experiential and collaborative flair to their dining experience. And flair is exactly what this appetizer had: The Moroccan Grilled Zucchini kicked off the challenge with a bang. A thick, lengthwise filet of zucchini marinated in balsamic vinaigrette atop a bed of creamy hummus, topped with chermoula, toasted garlic, ginger crisps, pepitas, and sweet pickled serranos had a delightfully firm and flavorful body sizzling with the complex flavors of citrus and acid, sweetness and spice, all with a smoky finish. The bright flavors cascading over the palate anew and complex — with every bite, a firework.

The ‘R’ in Squash from Spirit Hounds. Photo by Dallas Dorman

Spirit Hounds Distillers | Lyons – The ‘R’ in Squash
Spirit Hounds’ bright-eyed and bushy-tailed approach to fine spirits is immediately apparent in the waitstaff’s radiant smiles and the “doghouse”’s irreverently rustic decor. From the barrel top tables, the prominently displayed pride flag, to the bare barnwood bar and copper pot still, the tasting room is a modern saloon where everyone is treated like a local. Their pairing to the Moroccan Grilled Zucchini was a delightfully autumnal and earthy whisky cocktail, The ‘R’ in Squash, which grounded the firecracker dish acting as a smooth, delicately sweet palate cleanser. An herbal, citrus perfume leads the cocktail — with a curt nod to the chermoula preceding it — into a refreshing procession of pumpkin, maple, and honey. Notes of cocoa in the whisky are accentuated by the nutty flavor of walnut essence.

Combo Platter from Kalita Grill. Photo by Dallas Dorman

Kalita Grill | Boulder – Combo Platter
Kalita Grill is family owned, and they cook like family. Owner and Chef Armin Madoyan believes food is at the heart of community, and appropriately, his dish is the heart of this challenge. And, you can taste the love. The meat, both the chicken and the gyro, are succulent, savory — qualities accentuated by Kalita’s made-from-scratch rustic hummus. The tzatziki sauce leads each bite with a flutter of refreshing creamy cucumber that the hummus finishes with a richly nutty and vaguely bitter concomitant. The meal feels like a hug from a beloved relative even before you try the plush pita bread, which adds a buttery, satisfying bite, tying together the whole dish. Kalita Grill may be in the business of food, but they’re serving comfort.

Élevé Blanc from Snowy Peaks Winery. Photo by Dallas Dorman

Snowy Peaks Winery | Estes Park – Élevé Blanc
Snowy Peaks Winery has all the charm of a hike during a Colorado sunrise. Their tasting room is vibrantly yellow, lined with quaint artisanal offerings for the wine lover or local fan. Easy smiles line the bar as the knowledgeable staff selects our final pairing: 2022 Élevé Blanc, a delicate but complex network of flavors, at once refreshing the palette and echoing our procession of dishes and cocktails. It is a dry white but not without a hint of sweetness hiding after an initial citrusy punch that cuts through the rich flavors of this bespoke meal without contradicting them. The wine expands over the palate, lingering with the aromatic sweetness of apricot and wildflowers which begs the next bite or sip.

Cherry Cheesecake from Cherry’s Cheesecake & Delights. Photo by Dallas Dorman

Cherry’s Cheesecake & Delights | Erie – Cherry Cheesecake
Cherry’s Cheesecakes and Delights may be lauded from the NFL to The White House, but Cherry’s star power shines brightest locally: through her customer’s smiles. From the first bite, I couldn’t help smiling myself. Cherry’s cheesecakes are pure joy. Sold in single serving cups with over 170 signature flavors, cheesecake lovers — even those who are vegan or gluten free — will never want to leave. Her classic Cherry Cheesecake paired excellently in this challenge. Cherry’s cheesecake is a delightfully airy subversion of a typically heavy dessert: the feathery whipped cream, saccharine cherries, silken cheesecake, and rich, buttery crust all sang in harmony, no element of the cake outshining the other. The crust was surprisingly crisp, adding a nice textural bite to the smoothness of the cake and the juicy emphatic pop of the cherries.

Pairing #10

BY: Doug Geiling

A Pearl Street gem, an auto shop-turned hipster vibe pizza joint, a refreshing distillery, and a cozy neighborhood haunt team up for a delicious BoCo culinary adventure. Our editor is in Provence, France at this very moment, the region full of fresh fruits, seafood, and pastas that inspired some of the dishes in this feast.

Mateo | Boulder – Poulet Frites
Inspired by the Provence region of Mediterranean France and “slightly Americanized,” chef and restaurant owner Matthew Jansen calls this dish his “tried and true — something you could eat every day.” Indeed, after one bite I knew I would be back for more as a customer. The chicken, creatively prepared, is essentially flash seared and then slow baked. It is served over a beurre fondue with a mixed green salad in sherry vinaigrette and hand-cut, salted French fries. It’s the crispy-seared chicken with the tangy fondue that made this dish for me. It is absolutely delicious and simultaneously unpretentious. It is also Mateo’s signature dish and a local favorite. It’s comfort food you can be proud of. And it fits the Pearl Street ambience perfectly. Inside the restaurant Mateo presents a cozy, welcoming atmosphere imbibed with a sense of serious quality, just like the signature dish they are known for.

Photo by Kenneth Wajda

Mateo | Boulder – Contratto Sparkling White
My server Griffin said this is all he ever drinks. Whether that’s really true or not, I understand why. This is the Alta Langa Metodo Classico Pas Dosé Millesimato, vintage 2019 sparkling white. Do I know what all that means? Heck no, but in the words of Thomas Haden Church in the wine-based comedy Sideways, it tastes pretty good to me! That’s an understatement. It is fragrant and refreshing like a summer breeze over a Mediterranean orchard, and the bubbles are lively, like the Pearl Street bustle just outside my window at Mateo. Indeed, this wine hails from the Italian Piedmont which borders the French Provence region that inspired Mateo’s signature chicken dish, the Poulet Frites. It is a match meant to be.

Barchetta Pizza | Boulder – Curry Butternut Squash Soup
Chef Jesse Jensen must have checked the weather forecast because the Curry Butternut Squash Soup he served me was perfect for a rare cool and rainy August afternoon in downtown Boulder. Just as I delved into my amazing soup, the rain picked up as if on cue, dappling the abundant windows of this spacious corner eatery. For just a moment I thought I was in New York City in October. I’m thinking that the secret to this amazing dish must be the slow-cooked caramelization (30 minutes!) and topping of roasted nuts. It was the perfect blend of creamy texture, subtle curry flavor, and nutty goodness. The word Barchetta, Jesse explained, is slang for a little sports car or boat. Indeed, this corner hangout used to be an auto shop, and the old garage doors were retained for its throw-back décor. Bob’s Burgers reruns played on the television. “This is a cartoon bar, not a sports bar,” Jesse happily explained before showing off his wife’s amazing cartoon-themed artwork on the wall.

Abbott & Wallace Distilling | Longmont –  Rosé Dawson Cocktail
Inspired by the French 75, slightly fruity but not overly sweet. This is how Abbott & Wallace’s Steph Young described their Rosé Dawson, a perfect match for Mateo’s main dish. For some reason this tasty concoction reminded me of a perfect summer day. It is made with Alpine Dry Gin with lemon rosemary simple syrup topped with a sparkling dry rosé and finished with a garnish of rosemary and a couple slices of fresh strawberry. Friends John Abbott and H.K. Wallace were beer guys who fell in love with distilling a few years ago. Their wonderful establishment rests on a quiet Longmont corner a few blocks west of Main Street. It is open and airy but tastefully adorned with DIY salvaged materials like the giant “swamp pad” wooden beams hanging from the ceiling. As Steph described from behind the bar, they pride themselves on quality and source their grains locally, specifically from two Colorado farms. The enthusiasm and care with which they run this business is as refreshing as their Rosé Dawson, like a crisp sunny day in late September on the Front Range.

West Side Tavern | Longmont – Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake
There are places that claim to be neighborhood haunts, and then there are the rare gems that really are such places. I accidentally passed this restaurant because I saw nothing but houses, and then I realized that one of those houses was the West Side Tavern. Inside is a mix of quirky décor and deep texture of brick walls and dark wood tables. The walls are decorated with wine racks, totem poles, and a giant picture of an Easter Island head (I think). Hanging over the bar is a tiny human skeleton riding a stuffed snowy owl. My kind of place. Pastry chef Carie Sorensen whipped up a traditional strawberry rhubarb-swirled and layered cheesecake topped with a drizzle of chocolate ganache and garnished with fresh strawberry slices. I am a tough customer with cheesecake, but this one was just about perfect — not too rich but with flavor for miles. I polished off the dessert even though I told myself repeatedly not to eat the whole thing. I couldn’t help it. As I left, very satisfied and impressed, I took a closer look at the beautiful leafy side patio and noticed the tiki bar. A tiki bar in the middle of a quiet west Longmont hood? Oh, how I wished I lived closer to this place, like in the house next door.

The post The Challenge | Indulgence Issue 2023 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

From the cobblestones of Pearl Street Mall to the outlets we pass by on our way to work, Boulder County offers a wealth of incredible food. We tried 12 of the best dishes that can be found in BOCO, including cuisines from the Timoto-Cuica tribe, beautiful barbeque, fungus grown in the deep forest, locally cultivated crops, and many others. These are restaurants where you can make memories with people you love or order take out from if you’d rather stay home and hang out with your dog. These are uncertain times and we all deserve a break and a good meal. Here are some of the best dishes in BOCO.

Dragonfly Noodle:

The Butter Lobster Ramen is prepared in a delicious miso bonito broth. It is served with ramen noodles and sprinkled with spices, sesame seeds , and crunchy wakame seaweed. The broth is savory and has a funky salty-sweet richness to it. The tender lobster tail swims in the broth and is coiled in the noodles. 

The dish came from a day when Chef and Owner Edwin Zoe was brainstorming ideas and he realized he wanted to create a dish that merged his Taiwanese and American identities. He always had a love for lobster and ramen, but preparing the dish came with its own hurdles — there is a small window of opportunity to prepare the lobster correctly. The lobster will either turn out rubbery or tender. Regardless, that’s what makes cooking exciting.You’d think that out of all places, Boulder would be the last place to find delicious seafood, but you’d be wrong. Chef Zoe has put a creative spin on lobster, and you shouldn’t miss it. 

Gemini: 

The Champiñones: I must admit that I was skeptical when Chef Brian Pierce’s dish was first placed in front of me. I’d never had mushrooms as an entree. But upon taking my first bite, I found myself overtaken by this dish’s rich savor, my concerns forgotten. The mushrooms burst with salt and umami and a bit of a sour center that leaves you feeling sweet. Oddly enough, it reminded me of Sour Patch Kids, which probably only means that I have an unhealthy diet. The salted and peppered egg yolk in the center combined with the mushrooms makes the dish warm and gooey, a testament to Chef Pierce’s ingenuity.

Piripi: 

The Pulpo Piripi: At Piripi, Chef Hugo Meyer wants to create the perfect bite. Born in Argentina, he moved to Germany after finishing school, became a dishwasher at a pub and quickly rose to the role of General Manager. He spent the next years physically building restaurants himself in Spain and the Caribbean before marrying a homesick Coloradan and moving to Erie, Colorado. His Pulpo Piripi dish is the culmination of his quest for the perfect bite. 

Served with olive oil, spicy paprika, and, interestingly enough, lemon meringue pie dipping sauces, the tentacle is embedded with sea salt and the suction cups fried to give the bite the right amount of crunch. The meat is stretchy and chewy, like a savory saltwater taffy. Share with your friends, if you don’t decide to hoard it all for yourself.

Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ:  

The St. Louis Pork Ribs: The ribs are wonderfully tender and sweet. You can basically eat it with a fork, as the meat peels off like licorice. At Smokin’ Dave’s, all of their dishes are smoked, roasted, and seasoned with hickory. They offer four signature sauces: Carolina Mustard, Spicy, Sweet Original, and Tangy. As for the side dishes, the string beans were well prepared, but the Southern baked corn didn’t impress me. All in all, Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ knows how to serve ribs. Bring your vegan friends just to taunt them!

Farow:

The Pan Seared Colorado Bass: Chef Patrick Balcom’s Pan Seared Colorado Bass is crisp to the touch. Once your fork pierces the skin, steam reaches towards the heavens. The meat underneath is pearly white and evaporates in your mouth. The peeled and chopped tomatoes stacked on top gives it a tender, juicy flavor — as does the summer succotash moat the bass lies in. The succotash is a mix of corn, snap peas, and summer squash, with a toss of squashed lemon, butter, and herbs. All are freshly cut and served in such a way even meat lovers will enjoy. It’s a bit pricey for the small portion, but if you’re trying to count your calories, this place is for you. 

Quiero Arepas: 

The Pabellon: Quiero Arepas is a small food vendor located inside of Avanti Food & Beverage — a food hall on Pearl Street. Inside, you’ll find each restaurant was built from what looks like cargo crates that were repainted to serve the chefs’ cultural identities. Quiero Arepas was built to celebrate the Timoto-Cuica tribe’s cuisine, a tribe that built their civilization in the Andes in Venezuela. One of their greatest cultural contributions is the arepa, a flatbread made of corn meal, water, and salt. After it’s grilled and baked, it becomes a vessel to hold some of the most delicious food you’ll ever eat.

At Quiero Arepas, Chefs Igor and Beckie Panasewicz served me the Pabellon. It is made with stewed and shredded beef, muenster cheese, black beans, fried plantains, and guasacaca. If there is anything I have to say about this dish, it is that I wish I had a bigger mouth! The arepa was so soft and crunchy at the same time, you could pull the pork apart like string cheese, and there were so many flavors that I lost track of. All of it just melts in your mouth, and even as I write this, I wish I had a Pabellon right now.

Organic Sandwich Co.: 

The Turkey & Bacon Jam Sandwich: The search for the perfect sandwich is an eternal one. At Organic Sandwich Co., your search may come close to ending. The Turkey and Bacon Jam Sandwich is made with roasted turkey, house-made bacon jam, tomato, crisp romaine, and avocado aioli on a pretzel loaf. It feels quite light in the hand but is surprisingly filling. Everything about it is fresh — the bread, the cold cuts, and the bacon jam spread is delicious. The pretzel bread is definitely the best part because it is not like that typical sliced loaf bread you get at the store. If Joey Tribbiani from Friends was a real person, he’d probably go to Organic Sandwich Co. about six times per day. 

Hickory & Ash: 

The Colorado Lamb Shank: Hickory & Ash is a grandiose restaurant. It’s like walking into a palatial cabin that your old friend invited you to visit during the summer, dazzling you with its hipster-like string lights, its hardwood floors, and all the other furniture porn, but just wait until you try the food! 

The Colorado Lamb Shank is the perfect meal for all you meat lovers out there. It’s a well-roasted course, delicately sprinkled with feta cheese on top. Some of its meat was dark, but that made it all the more enjoyable. As for side dishes, the salty farrotto and the snappiest of snap peas served as a nice balance to the lamb. The pepper jam was also delicious, and I have to remind myself to ask for the recipe. 

Bramble and Hare: 

The Pan-Seared Salmon: Vapor emanates from this dish as it is placed in front of you, drowning your senses in a miasma of smells so enticing that you must remind yourself of the rules of civility and resist the primal urge to devour the thing whole. Silverware and etiquette. Must remember silverware and etiquette. The grilled skin is delectable, after being tossed in a butter-coated frying pan. The salmon itself is smooth, rich, and feels as if someone glazed the inside of it. It was like staring into an oblong pink pearl. Its flavor is owed to the white wine, lemon, and basil. Its side dishes make it all the better. The plentitude of Aztec corn is delightful. It is locally grown and served with Huitlacoche, a delicacy made from the fungus grown on corn. The summer squash and tomatoes are well prepared, but the carrots are a little undercooked. Bramble and Hare offers a 1920s speakeasy vibe: a dim-lit clandestine atmosphere but the Pan-Seared Salmon should be no secret!

Taj Mahal III:

Garlic Naan, Basmati Rice, Chicken Tikka Masala, Saag Paneer, and Cauliflower Manchurian: The garlic naan was by far the best Indian flatbread I’ve ever had. It was fresh out of the oven, had a soft and flaky texture from the air pockets, and the oil from the garlic made it so much better. You’ll wish you could have more of it, but the naan is already bigger than the plate! It was the perfect complement for the chicken tikka masala. The masala is rich, and the chicken pieces are like little hot coals, but don’t worry, the basmati rice will help cool it down. The cauliflower manchurian is speckled in spice, and it was still crunchy without being overcooked. The saag paneer was slightly bitter and stringy, but your partner will remind you how healthy it is. Taj Mahal is a great restaurant to bring your family, so stop by the next time you’re hungry for naan! 

INJOY Tavern:

The Artichoke Feta Dip: This dish is served with artichoke hearts, feta cheese, bread crumbs, pita crisp, and seasonal raw veggies. The pita bread is fresh out of the oven — crispy along its edges and soft at its center, with a sprinkle of garlic. The dip is made of marinated artichoke and feta creme which creates a tangy, pasty flavor and makes the meal all the more filling. The carrots and asparagus are also a nice balance to counter the strong flavor of the dip. It’s a simple dish, but sometimes simple is all you need. It is a nice meal that you can share with your friends while sitting out on the patio and watching the sunset over the Erie Highlands.

Busaba:

The Pad Thai: If I had an office job around the area I would definitely come here more often. The Pad Thai consists of stir-fried rice noodles with egg, green onion, bean sprouts, and ground peanuts, with the choice of chicken, pork, beef, tofu, or shrimp. You can make it as spicy as you’d like, but be careful not to go overboard. Overall, it’s a good meal to have during your lunch break or when you want to hang out with your buddies. I gladly ate the leftovers for dinner that night, so if you’re looking for a quick bite that will last you, Busaba is the place.

The post 12 Dishes That Will Satisfy a Culinary Expedition in BOCO | Indulgence Issue 2022 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.