After years of cooking on the line at some of Breckenridge’s best-known restaurants (Hearthstone, Peak 9, Mi Casa) and owning a late-night eatery (the Sloppy Dog) of his own, chef Ryan Turano wanted to create more time for his growing family. So down the mountain Turano and his family went. They moved to Denver and turned the old Hash restaurant space in Sunnyside into Sunny’s.

Turano’s talent and experience (he’s a culinary school grad from Johnson and Wales) are evident as he weaves innovative and comforting twists into every breakfast favorite. Take the light, yeasty, strawberry waffle, piled high with organic strawberries and crowned with crème anglaise, whipped cream, and an artistic drizzle of smooth balsamic syrup. Or look to the exceptional Rhody Benedict with delicate white corn Johnny cakes topped with two sunny side-ups, fork-tender slabs of pork belly, and warm, spiced apples all ladled with creamy hollandaise and sprinkled with smoked salt. The same creativity extends to the six other Benedicts, eight specialty platters, four oatmeal combos, four egg classics, and three granola bowls.

With Turano’s focus on flavor, execution, and fresh ingredients, every bite on this menu is worth a drive across town. I, for one, am heading back as soon as possible for the Nutty with Nutella waffle with banana compote, Nutter Butter crumble, crème anglaise, and whipped cream.

Bonus: Nab a seat on the sun-dappled patio.

2339 W. 44th Ave., 303-477-0005