Denver’s Best New Restaurants 2015
From humble bagels to farm-to-table dishes, the local dining scene has never been so exciting. Here, 10 spots to try now.
Fashion Trend We Love: Denim
Stride into spring by pairing denim’s freshest styles with shoes that accentuate new cuts and details.
Colorado TV: “Urban Conversion”
An Arvada man turns his eco-makeover into a reality TV show.
Escape Rooms Unlock a New Entertainment Market
Interactive puzzle rooms are popping up across the Front Range, offering wanna-be Watsons the chance to test out their sleuthing skills.
Colorado Bookshelf: Too Bad to Die
Don’t miss Francine Mathew’s new WWII spy novel on bookshelves this month.
5 Spring Break Adventures to Entertain Your Kids
No vacation? No problem. From zip-lining to kart-racing, here are five ways to make your kids’ spring break special.
Fractured Prune Doughnuts Bringing Make-Your-Own Concept to Denver
Hike We Like: Flatirons Vista Loop
This short and easy loop in Boulder Open Space has killer views of the Flatirons, plus several great options for lengthening your route.
The Many Faces of Homelessness
Photographer Dylan Burr’s latest art show and coffee-table book, The Neighbours Project, spotlights Denver’s homeless population.
Jobs 2.0: Denverites Who Found the Perfect Second Careers
Not feeling satisfied at work? Meet six locals who made a serious—and successful—career change.
Obsession: Mercantile’s Almond Milk
The Union Station eatery makes a fresh batch of creamy and lightly flavored almond milk every day. Here’s how we like to enjoy it.
Our Charitable Picks for February 16-22
Get Involved is a weekly series pointing readers toward community-oriented events, volunteer opportunities, and good causes in Colorado.
A Sporting Life
A letter from the editor of our March 2015 issue.
Colorado Seeks to Open Up Overseas Trade
The state’s so-so export stats hide a booming knowledge-based economy state officials hope to ship overseas.
Inside University of Colorado Hospital’s Addiction Center for Pro Athletes
At CeDAR, elite athletes can recover from addiction and dependency without missing the intense daily practice they need to compete.
Get Involved: Homes of Living Hope
A portable health clinic built in Louisville heads to Mexico City.
Colorado Women Who Deserve a Hall of Fame Distinction
The Denver Women’s Commission will unveil a Hall of Fame exhibit this month. Here are some of our modest proposals.
Denver Women’s Commission Turns 30
Its gift? A shrinking gender gap.
Q&A: Taylor Gold, Pro Snowboarding’s Breakout Star
The 21-year-old Steamboat Springs native talks tricks, training, and preparation.
The Great Pot Property Bind
Legal marijuana’s hardest-hitting side effect is one nobody predicted: a red-hot industrial real estate market.
Happy Hour at Golden Moon Speakeasy
Golden Moon’s unique spirits warm up a cold night.
Opinion: Parents Bill of Rights Misses the Mark
Why an ill-fated bill was ill-advised from the start.
Enjoy a Winter Weekend Escape at C Lazy U Ranch
Dude ranch vacations aren’t just summer pastimes at C Lazy U Ranch in Granby.
History Colorado’s Latest Exhibit Takes You Back to 1968
Explore many of the turbulent events that occurred during this historic year at History Colorado’s interactive exhibit.
Snow Trek
This is part of a weekly series published fresh on Thursday mornings.
The Omnivore’s Outtake: To The Wind’s Escargot—Right Where They Belong
People often make menu selections when they eat out based on what they “can’t make at home.” My suggestion? Add escargot to that list.
Ask a Chef: Babette’s Steve Scott
One of the city’s finest bakers talks about the sacrifices he makes in the name of perfection.
Valentine’s Day Plans: Parent’s Night Out
Alliance Française de Denver invites your kids to join an evening full of French learning—while you enjoy a romantic night out.
Neighborhood Guide: South Park Hill
This is part of a monthly series on 5280.com about Denver’s niche, new, and veteran neighborhoods.
Best Bets: Nick Musaelian’s Absurdist Portraits
Boulder-based painter Nick Musaelian will debut his recent works at Abend Gallery on February 13.
Travel and Outdoors in the February Issue
Still haven’t picked up the most recent issue of 5280? Here’s what you’ve been missing.
6 Hikes We Can’t Wait to Conquer This Summer
While the mountains are still receiving snowfall, that doesn’t mean we can’t start planning our summertime treks. Here, six hikes to get you wishing for the warmer days ahead.
Bar Speak: New Mile High Sipping Spots, Part 1
So many bars, so little time. We profile a few of the Mile High City’s newest watering holes.
Go Now: Katsu Ramen For Authentic Ramen Noodle Soup
Colorado’s ramen aficionados have been making the drive to Aurora and waiting in line for the authentic dishes at Katsu Ramen.
Relationship Tips from a Modern Love Therapist
Denver-based marriage and family therapist Alysha Trujillo talks to 5280 about the importance of maintaining the health of our relationships well beyond Valentine’s Day.
From Every Angle
A home commands breathtaking views of the Flatirons with a design that draws the outside in.
Fracking Fight Reaches Denver’s Doorstep
A new anti-development coalition takes on the oil and gas industry.
Color Theory
A young family revives this classic Littleton home with a dazzling mix of hue and pattern.
6 Kid-Friendly Winter Adventures to Enjoy Now
Take advantage of the cool weather with these fun-filled activities for the whole family.
Try A Living Wall
A vertical planting installation in this LEED Platinum–certified Denver home shows that going green isn’t just smart. It can be gorgeous, too.
Create An Inviting Backyard Oasis
A small, serene Denver courtyard lives large with an inventive design by Dig Studio.
Sleep Better With Simplified Bedding
A slick flat sheet/duvet combo from a Boulder entrepreneur allows you make your bed perfectly in just five seconds.
Inside Denver’s Hippest Loft
An artistic couple’s personalities shine in their collection-filled, upcycled Denver home.
Sneak Peek: PearlWest
Behind the scenes of the massive new commercial project in downtown Boulder.
Up Your Theater IQ with Local Theater Company’s Salons
The Boulder troupe’s series helps artists better understand how new works are created, and teaches audience members how to watch and discuss plays.
A Guide to Cherry Creek North
Five go-to design stores for furniture, accessories, gifts, and more.
Our Heartfelt Picks for February 9-15
Get Involved is a weekly series pointing readers toward community-oriented events, volunteer opportunities, and good causes in Colorado.
Shop Talk: ModMobili
ModMobili owner Jonathan Auty doesn’t just tell you how to integrate modern furniture into your home. He shows you.
Powder Room Tips and Tricks
Bold patterns and inviting touches are the keys to a properly styled bathroom.
Daring by Design
Can home decor be playful and elegant? With this Boulder home, designer Erin Iba of Iba Design Associates answers an emphatic yes.
Meet the Designer: Ashley Campbell
Designer Ashley Campbell shares her layered, livable approach to design.
LoHi’s Newest Apartment Building Goes Green
Denver architecture firm Tres Birds Workshop combines sustainability with style in Lumina.
Trend Alert: Blue & White
Our favorite color duo, blue and white, is perfect for spring. Freshen up your Colorado home with these vibrant, fun finds from across the country.
How to Make a Spring Bouquet
Try these tips and blooms, picked by Jil Schlisner of Moss Pink Flora & Botanicals, for a brilliant arrangement.
Boldly Moving Forward
A letter from the editor of 5280 Home’s Spring 2015 edition.
Best Bites: North County’s Chile de Arbol Roasted Chicken Salad
Forget the standard taco salad and savor every bite of this zesty, Baja-inspired dish.
Don’t Miss: Food Lover’s Book Club (Wednesday, Feb. 11)
WinterWonderGrass Colorado Celebrates All Things Local
The annual Rocky Mountain festival celebrates string music, craft Colorado goods, and community vibes.
Your (Quick) Guide to the Colorado Garden & Home Show
Our picks for don’t-miss displays, exhibitors, and seminars at this year’s show.
Will Peyton Make One Last Run?
Why one more year with Peyton is probably the Broncos’ best option.
Fashion Special: It’s a Mondo World
Denver fashion designer and Project Runway All Stars winner, Mondo Guerra, launches a black-and-white capsule collection that’s anything but basic.
New Report: Colorado’s Vaccine Rates Fall Short
One in four kids in Colorado are considered under-immunized, according to the latest state report on vaccine-preventable diseases. We spoke to co-author Dr. James Todd about what parents can do to protect their children.
The Anti-Alpine World Ski Championships Guide
Six ways to get out and enjoy Colorado in early February while avoiding the hubbub in Vail-Beaver Creek.
A Program For A More Mindful Life
Well & Company combines nutritional supplements and community events to help individuals build and maintain healthy lifestyles for mind, body, and spirit.
7 Prix-Fixe Valentine’s Day Menus Under $75
The way to your date’s heart…good food!
Skating for a Cause
This is part of a weekly series published fresh on Thursday mornings.
Bar Speak: What Are Your Favorite Watering Holes?
The Denver drinking scene is vast and varied, and simply too large for one editor to cover. So we’re asking readers: What did we miss in our 2015 Best Bars list?
Building a Community: Project Enye
Millions of people across the U.S. are caught between dual identities—born American, with Latino roots. A Denver-based group hopes to bridge that gap, and spawn a new cultural movement.
10 (Mostly) Free Things to Do: February 2015 Edition
From running the stairs at Red Rocks to attending Breckenridge’s Mardi Gras celebration, here are 10 ways to give your wallet a break this month.
NEWS: MiJo Joins Avanti Food & Beverage
Where to Eat During the Alpine World Ski Championships
Heading to Vail-Beaver Creek to catch the races (or check out the entertainment)? Here are our top picks for where to refuel.
Update Your Wardrobe With These Winter Sale Finds
Pump some life into your cold-weather look without killing your budget.
Hike We Like: The Cretaceous-Tertiary Loop
Hike the eastern edge of Golden’s South Table Mountain, the land where dinosaurs once roamed—and died.
Daniel Junge Is A Sundance Kid At Last
The Denver-based filmmaker has fought long and hard to have “Sundance Film Festival Official Selection” on his cinematic resumé.
Shop Talk: Valentine’s Gift Ideas From Bloom
From watch boxes to succulent arrangements to high-end jewelry, Bloom by Anuschka’s two locations are gifting go-tos for Valentine’s Day and throughout the year.
Boulder Eats: Breakfast at the New Naked Lunch
Build-your-own delicious breakfast sandwich at the new eatery at Boulder’s Lofts at Peloton.
Super Bowl Ad Sparks a Burger Battle
If you’re spending time debating whether to choose one mass-produced burger over another, you might want to reconsider your dietary priorities.
Athletes to Watch at the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships
Need a primer on who’s who on the ski hill? We’re here to help.
Denver Jewish Film Festival Preview: “Little White Lie”
This year’s Jewish Film Festival, running from February 4–15, focuses on questions of conflicting religious, racial, and cultural identities.
These 8 Women-Led Businesses Are Going to Startup School
Boulder-based startup accelerator MergeLane welcomes its first class of women-led businesses.
5 Non-Ski Events at the Alpine World Ski Championships
Think you have to be a skiing superfan to check out the Championships? We give you five other reasons to head west.
Our Top Charitable Picks for February 2–8
Get Involved is a weekly series pointing readers toward community-oriented events, volunteer opportunities, and good causes in Colorado.
Best Bites: Glaze’s Chicken and Matcha Waffles
The Congress Park eatery has had many iterations (three to be exact). Let’s hope its latest is here to stay.
February Weekend Plans: Happenings From Around the Region
It’s February, folks. So it’s all about the slopes.
Bar Speak: Where Top Bartenders Go For a Cold One
Looking for your next favorite watering hole? We asked Denver bartenders where they imbibe.
New Site Hopes to Reunite Lost Pets with Owners
EmergencyPetMatcher, a socially powered website created by University of Colorado Boulder researchers, helps connect families with lost pets during natural disasters.
Bar Speak: A Chat With One Of The World’s Best Bartenders
Sean Kenyon talks to 5280 about his past, future, and the smashing success of his LoHi speakeasy, Williams & Graham.
For (Virtually) Authentic Chicago-Style Pizza, Patxi’s Delivers
Put your cardiologist on speed dial and thank us later.
Beer Review: Prost Brewing’s Altbier
This session brew satisfies our game-day beer cravings—and our tastebuds.
Bar Speak: Cocktail Ingredients of the Moment
What’s hot in the Denver bar scene? From sherry to bacteria (yes, really), bartenders share their favorite ingredients du jour.
The Denver Passport Presents the Winter Warmer
Bundle up and hit the town—the Denver Passport is back.
Job Posting: Restaurant Critic
Get Involved: Reading Partners
This organization has partnered with 13 schools in Denver, Aurora, and Sheridan to connect adult tutors with children who need extra help on their reading skills.
Trail to the City
This is part of a weekly series published fresh on Thursday mornings.
Six Places to Watch the Super Bowl
Watch the Seattle Seahawks duke it out against the New England Patriots at any of these Super Bowl hangouts in Denver.
One More Reason to Take an Uber on Super Bowl Sunday
This Super Bowl Sunday think twice about getting behind the wheel.
Good News: Colorado Earns Highest Ranking on LGBT Equality
A first-of-its-kind report shows that our state, while not perfect, is fairly progressive when it comes to LGBT-related laws and policies.
In the Works: A Natural Food Co-op for Stapleton, Park Hill, and Aurora
Hike We Like: Waterton Canyon
This newly reopened portion of the Colorado Trail offers the expected mountain views—and a lesson in where Denver’s much-needed water comes from.
Lower Oil Prices Put a Welcome Pause on Fracking
With gas prices dropping below $2 per gallon here in Colorado, now is the perfect time for people on all sides of the fracking debate to re-examine their positions.
Boulder Eats: Verde Food Truck’s Brick-and-Mortar
Your Guide to the FIS Alpine World Ski Championships
Everything you need to know to navigate this massive two-week ski event, hosted in Vail and Beaver Creek.
Our Top Charitable Picks for January 26-February 1
Get Involved is a weekly series pointing readers toward community-oriented events, volunteer opportunities, and good causes in Colorado.
Get Some: Blackbelly’s Bone Broth
Best Bites: Chowder Room’s Vegan Chowder
It’s National Pie Day, Eat This!
Satisfy your craving at Lucky’s Bakehouse & Creamery.
Note to the Nuggets (and Everyone Else): Emulate the Spurs
As the blue-and-gold continues its eternal flirtation with mediocrity, the way out of the doldrums can be found deep in the heart of Texas.
Meet the Artists: Charles and Collin Parson
In the father-and-son pair’s exhibition, Continuance, visitors get the rare opportunity to see, side-by-side, how two generations perceive the same world.
Rebuilding History
This is part of a weekly series published fresh on Thursday mornings.
You Can Become Certified in Mental Health First Aid
A training course teaches Coloradans how to identify, support, and react to symptoms of mental illness.
Smart Cooking: Eugenia Bone’s “The Kitchen Ecosystem”
Go Now: Grey Cactus Cocina & Bar
West Wash Park’s CafeBar recently re-opened as an upbeat taco bar.
Hike We Like: Coyote Ridge Trail
Take a journey back to prehistoric times while hiking ridges of Dakota sandstone, hogbacks of limestone, and valleys of soft, black shale.
One For The Rails
The bar-hopping light-rail guide that takes commuting home from work (or school) up a notch.
Denver Deep Dish Opens LoHi Location
You may visit Jason McGovern’s latest restaurant for the addictive Chicago-style pizza, but you’ll keep coming back for the wings.
Q&A: Jamie Wells, Beer Man
Old British-style brews? West Coast-style IPAs? You can find them all at the tiny J Wells Brewery in Boulder.
Best Bites: Tokio’s Tiramisu
Tokio puts a Japanese twist on a classic Italian dessert.
Eat Cheap: The BSide
The BSide’s happy hour drums up snack-time nostalgia.
How To: Make a Black Onyx Old Fashioned
Savory Spice Shop puts its own spin on a classic cocktail for Valentine’s Day.
Review: Guard and Grace
Is Guard and Grace Denver’s best steak house?
Reminder: Law Enforcement Settlements Are An Expensive Problem
New figures add an additional $1.5 million to the already swollen cost of Denver law enforcement settlements.
Welcome to the Wheat Revolution, Championed by Chipotle
Chipotle founder Steve Ells has always pushed the boundaries of fast food. Now, he has his sights set on incorporating a unique variety of nutritious whole wheat in all his restaurants.
Single In The Mile High City
Two unpaired locals—Nicole, 30, and Joey, 31—break down Denver’s dating scene.
Travel and Outdoors in the January Issue
If you haven’t snagged a copy of the January issue, here’s what you’ve been missing.
Meet the Makers: 10 Craftspeople to Know in Denver
Independent designers, artisans, and creators—collectively described as “makers”—are filling studios and workshops across Denver and cranking out beautiful handmade products. Meet 10 of the best.
The Price of Love
Our Valentine’s Day date matrix has an option for every couple—and every budget.
Fast Lane to Glory
For Vail skiing prodigy and Olympic gold medalist Mikaela Shiffrin, success can’t come fast enough. Adulthood, though—that can wait.
Best Bites: The Post Brewing Co.’s Roasted Butternut Squash
Behind The Brew: Hogshead Brewery
This is part of a monthly series that introduces you to Colorado breweries.
Inside the Design Mind of a Denver Restaurateur
The secret to Justin Cucci’s funky restaurant decor? The Internet.
DIY Spa Day
Relax (and reward) yourself at home with goodies from one of Denver’s newest skincare companies.
Beer Review: River North Brewery’s Big City Quad
This high-ABV brew is reminiscent of a hearty oatmeal raisin cookie—perfectly suited for an ordinary night snuggled up on the couch.
Louie Psihoyos’ Second Act at Sundance
The Boulder-based filmmaker debuts his new eco-thriller, Racing Extinction, at the Sundance Film Festival.
4 New Spa Treatments to Combat Your Winter Skin Woes
Brighten your dull winter skin with these innovative (and ultra-healing) therapies.
Treat Yourself to a Tree Massage
The Four Seasons’ newest spa treatment pairs evergreen oil and bamboo healing sticks to alleviate your aching muscles.
A New Way to Fill the State’s Tech Talent Gap
SeedPaths turns disadvantaged youth into highly trained developers.
A Woman’s Place Is in the Boardroom
A new startup accelerator helps women-led businesses get off the ground.
Caribou Ranch to Auction Off Colorado Music Memorabilia
The iconic recording studio will sell some of its musical and historical treasures later this month.
Eyes on the Mountain
Local police and the FBI turn up security on the 2015 Alpine World Ski Championships crowds.
Vail and Beaver Creek Get a Face Lift
It took four-plus years and $58 million to prepare Eagle County for the 2015 Alpine World Ski Championships. Here, a look inside the improvements.
Long Live the Birds of Prey
Beaver Creek’s tenacious run will challenge racers during this month’s FIS Alpine World Ski Championships.
Parenting Perfection
A letter from the editor of our February 2015 issue.
Book It: Denver Restaurant Week 2015
Denver Restaurant Week reservations go quickly. Nab yours before other savvy gourmands beat you to it.
“Beets” Reveals an Often Overlooked Narrative in Colorado History
Rick Padden’s play is a timeless exploration of war, humanity, and how we treat prisoners.
First-Timer’s Guide: Aspen
This luxury mountain getaway is a must-see in every season. Here are suggestions on living it up on your next visit, no matter your budget.
For the Birds
This is part of a weekly series published fresh on Thursday mornings.
NEWS: Jeff Osaka Announces Second Osaka Ramen
5 Things to Know About the 2015 Colorado General Assembly
From guns to marijuana and more, here are five hot-button issues that will be on legislators’ radars during the 70th session of the Colorado General Assembly.
5 Places To Rent Your Ski Wear
Forget Rent the Runway. In Colorado, you can lease all the necessary winter wear to outfit you for any mountain adventure.
Go Now: Bistro Vendôme’s Vegetarian Tasting Menu
Bistro Vendôme’s monthly vegetarian tasting menu runs Wednesday through Friday.
Our Top Picks for January 12-18
Get Involved is a weekly series pointing readers toward community-oriented events, volunteer opportunities, and good causes in Colorado.
10 Face & Body Oils to Combat Winter Dryness
Colorado’s winter weather can wreak havoc on your skin. Here are some face and body oils to get you back to beautiful.
The Anti-Skiing Guide to Colorado’s Mountains
Six ways to spend a weekend in the mountains—without a pair of skis.
Chez Thuy Adds Location on Federal
Broncos’ Winter Starts Way Too Early
After Sunday’s debacle, Elway and Company suddenly have some uncomfortable questions to answer.
Neighborhood Guide: Jefferson Park
This is part of a monthly series on 5280.com about Denver’s niche, new, and veteran neighborhoods.
Sweet Treats: Beaver Creek’s New On-Mountain Candy Shop
Need a sugar rush to help you and your family make it to last chair? Swing into Beaver Creek’s Candy Cabin.
Healthy Sweets: Truffles from Two Moms in the Raw
Go Now: Biju’s Little Curry Shop
This month-old, fast-casual kitchen in RiNo offers a fresh take on Indian cuisine.
Finally, An Easier Way to Get to the Mountains
The Colorado Department of Transportation plans to launch a new bus service, which will run routes along I-25 and I-70, this spring.
Bartender Speak: Q&A with Allison Widdecombe
The Williams & Graham mixologist talks to 5280 about her approach to bartending and what makes the perfect Manhattan.
Empire Dairy King
Skip après-ski for the taste of a small-town treat.
Broncos Face Their Toughest Road Yet
Denver’s team has a host of “ifs” to overcome in order to earn a spot in the Super Bowl—let alone win the Lombardi trophy.
Best Bets: Laura Guese’s Sky-Inspired Paintings
The Denver-born artist will display her works—inspired by Colorado’s bluebird skies—at the Mike Wright Gallery through February.
The Omnivore’s Outtake: California Food Parlance at Gozo
Extreme Selfie
This is part of a weekly series published fresh on Thursday mornings.
10 (Mostly) Free Things to Do: January 2015 Edition
From ice sculptures to parading livestock, here are 10 ways to give your wallet a break this month.
Hike We Like: Bobcat Ridge’s Valley Loop Trail
This gentle loop in the City of Fort Collins’ 2,600-acre Bobcat Ridge Natural Area is a year-round escape for snowshoers and hikers.
Recipe: Game Day Nachos
Playoff season is upon us. Follow these tips to build the perfect plate of nachos to enjoy during game time.
One Year Later, Legal Weed is Working Just Fine in Colorado
Despite prognostications that legalized recreational marijuana would turn our pristine state into a hellish dystopia, we’re probably more utopian than ever.
How Not to Disgrace the Colorado State Flag (And the Rest of Us)
A primer on how to (and how not to) outfit yourself in Centennial State gear.
5280’s Top 10 Long Reads of 2014
We’re re-reading our most popular long-form articles of the year, and invite you to do the same.
5 Cleaning Hacks to Green Up Your Household
…and start the new year off right.
Our Top Picks for New Year’s Eve
Put on your party clothes and get ready to ring in the New Year right at these festive fêtes.
This Nonprofit Is Changing Communities Through Play
A local group is rethinking Denver’s urban spaces with one intention: play.
