If you think Degree Metropolitan Food & Drink on the Metropolitan State University campus is just a college hangout, think again. Located across from the Pepsi Center and bolstered with a strong list of 20 craft beers, 16 wines by the glass, and innovative cocktails, Degree is a no-brainer for drinks before an Avs game or concert. But this sleek, modern restaurant offers a whole lot more.

You see, Degree is more than a restaurant: The eatery doubles as a learning environment for MSU hospitality students. Trained under executive chef Daniel Hyman, Degree offers hands-on schooling through the management program through the Department of Hospitality, Tourism, and Events.

But don’t read this as a negative when it comes to the food or service. This kitchen is spot-on (try the tokusen ramen bowl, the pressed torta packed with shrimp and chorizo, and the perfectly salted plate of fries with aji amarillo, white cheddar green chile, and yuzu marmalade) and the student trainees add rather than detract from the professionalism. Degree’s experience is solid dining day and night.

Bonus: A portion of Degree’s proceeds go to support student scholarships.

1190 Auraria Parkway (in the Springhill Suites Hotel), 720-439-2890