Where to go for great ingredients, kitchen gear and interesting wines across the state.
DENVER
THE UNDENIABLE
Argonaut Liquors
718 E. Colfax Ave., 303-831-7788
Closed Sunday
LIQUOR STORE
WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s hard to imagine East Colfax Avenue without the Argonaut sign hovering above it, guiding drivers to its well-stocked shelves. Great place to stock your bar or pick up a case of everyday wines.
WHAT TO GET: New specials every week.
THE HOLE STORY
The Bagel Store
942 S. Monaco Pkwy., 303-388-2648
6 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday-Wednesday,
6 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday-Friday
BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Not only are many of the goods at the Bagel Store pas Yisroel, the bagels are simply the closest thing you will get to an honest-to-goodness New York-style bagel in this state, amazing considering we don’t have Big Apple tap water. These come complete with that exterior that’s crunchy enough when fresh that no toasting is necessary, and the insides are ideally spongy. These genuine salt bagels continually pour forth from the vats in the back; also available are giant, braided challah and pastries.
WHAT TO GET: A plain bagel is all you need.
THE BAD GIRL
Le Bakery Sensual
300 E. Sixth Ave., 303-777-5151
Closed Sunday
lebakerysensual.com
BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Besides being on your short list of bachelorette-party bakeries, Le Bakery Sensual also produces G-rated birthday and wedding cakes. Need a marzipan rendition of your boss for an office party? You know who to call.
WHAT TO GET: A cake in the shape of … is that Florida?
THE FIXTURE
The Cheese Company
5575 E. Third Ave., 303-394-9911
Closed Sunday
GOURMET GROCERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Given the name of the place, cheese takes up a relatively small corner of the shop. But it’s a good selection. Also on hand: prepared foods to take home. Stock up on breadsticks, pasta, and other gourmet groceries.
WHAT TO GET: Baked pasta and cheese.
THE CONNECTION
Fred’s Fine Meats
5614 E. Cedar Ave., 303-377-2979
Closed Sunday
BUTCHER
WHY WE LOVE IT: Fresh cuts and a super-clean counter make Fred’s the Butcher of choice in Crestmoor. Plus, it’s right next door to Pete’s Fruit and Vegetables.
WHAT TO GET: Rotisserie chicken, prepared daily.
THE LOCAL CONNECTION
Goodness to Go
1712 E. Sixth Ave. between Gilpin and Williams streets, 303-377-6500
Tuesday-Saturday
quichefactory.com
SPECIALTY MARKET
WHY WE LOVE IT: Bonnie Smith, a.k.a. The Quiche Lady, just couldn’t bear it when the farmers’ market season ended, so she and other market regulars opened this little shop that carries locally made foods.
WHAT TO GET: Quiche Factory quiches, Pappardelle’s pasta, Loredana’s pesto.
THE SHEPHERD
The International Market
2020 S. Parker Road 303-695-1090
Daily 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
BUTCHER, MARKET
WHY WE LOVE IT: Beautiful, flavorful lamb is sold here. Butchers are on hand to provide cuts you want in the size you want. This is also the place for hard-to- find Middle Eastern and African condiments such as foo-foo flour, palm oil, ghee and fava beans, and not-to-be-believed desserts.
WHAT TO GET: Lamb chops, lamb stew, ground lamb, lamb ribs, leg of lamb. Pork is not sold here.
THE RELIABLE
Oliver’s Meat and Seafood Market
1718 E. Sixth Ave., 303-733-4629
Closed Sunday
BUTCHER
WHY WE LOVE IT: Straight out of the old school, Oliver’s is your first stop on the quest for the perfect holiday rib roast or picnic ham. Ask about knife-sharpening services.
WHAT TO GET: A pound of bacon.
THE BEACON
The Truffle
2906 E. Sixth Ave., 303-322-7363
Closed Sunday
denvertruffle.com
CHEESE
WHY WE LOVE IT: Although it recently changed owners, The Truffle remains one of Denver’s best cheese vendors, with a top-notch collection. Delicious cured olives. Watch for more cured meats in the near future.
WHAT TO GET: For an at-home cheese course, choose two.
THE HEAD OF THE CLASS
Marczyk’s
770 E. 17th Ave., 303-894-9499
Daily
marczykfinefoods.com
GOURMET GROCERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Marczyk’s has uncompromisingly good meats, produce, and imported and domestic gourmet groceries. Great cheese counter, killer wine shop in back.
WHAT TO GET: A Marczyk frequent-shopper card.
THE FAVORITE
Mondo Vino
3601 W. 32nd Ave., 303-458-3858
Closed Sunday
mondovino.net
WINE SHOP
WHY WE LOVE IT: Bigger-than-expected selection of juice from around the world, offered with no attitude. Take your time browsing, and discuss your wine plans with the staff.
WHAT TO GET: Ask what’s on sale. Not all great wine is pricey.
THE GEM
Pacific Ocean International Supermarket
2200 W. Alameda Ave., 303-935-2470
Daily
ASIAN GROCER
WHY WE LOVE IT: All the fermented bean curd and fish sauce you can handle, plus a very fresh, high-turnover selection of produce. Don’t be fooled by the rough-shod exterior of the place; indoors the aisles are clean and bright.
WHAT TO GET: Seafood, which practically jumps out of the case.
THE CELLAR
Reserve List
1886 S. Pearl St., 303-722-5478
Closed Sunday
reservelist.com
WINE SHOP
WHY WE LOVE IT: This small, pleasant wine shop in the Platt Park district boasts a knowledgeable staff, accessible prices and frequent tastings and events.
WHAT TO GET: A membership in the Reserve List wine club for first crack at new finds.
THE “PANADERO”
Rosales Mexican Bakery
2636 W. 32nd Ave., 303-458-8420
Daily
BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: This Mexican bakery opened in 1974, long before the West 32nd Avenue renaissance that brought coffee houses, wine shops and nightclubs to the mostly Latino neighborhood.
WHAT TO GET: Sugary yeast breads and pan de muerto for Day of the Dead.
THE CUPBOARD
Simple Foods
3901 Tennyson St., 303-561-4740
Daily
GOURMET GROCERY, DELI
WHY WE LOVE IT: What’s not to love about a full-service gourmet grocery dedicated to all-natural and organic foods that also produces an excellent meatloaf sandwich and chocolate chip cookie? Second location in Salida.
WHAT TO GET: Raw pizza dough, mixed at the Edgewater Inn.
THE DISPENSARY
Spinelli’s Market
4621 E. 23rd Ave., 303-329-8143
Daily
GOURMET GROCERY, DELI
WHY WE LOVE IT: Besides fresh mozzarella and an excellent selection of olive oils, this longtime Park Hill landmark and one of Denver’s premier importers of Italian foodstuffs also provides excellent prepared foods and sandwiches.
WHAT TO GET: Rosemary-cured almonds.
THE KITCHEN SINK
Standard Restaurant Supply
6337 Federal Blvd., 303-487-1499
1420 Oak St., near West Colfax Avenue and Kipling Street, Lakewood, 303-231-9355
www.standard.adigitalsys.com/ecom/
KITCHENWARE
WHY WE LOVE IT: You don’t have to be an insider to shop in these airy, brightly lit stores.
WHAT TO GET: Anything a pro or amateur cook could want.
THE BREAD BASKET
Trompeau Bakery
1729 E. Evans Ave. 303-698-9682
Closed Sunday
BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: As close as it comes to a neighborhood French bakery in Denver, Trompeau has an ever-present aroma of yeast and flour, and baguettes constantly coming out of the oven.
WHAT TO GET: Croissants, first thing of the day.
SUBURBS NORTH
THE CROSSROADS
My India’s
1000 Depot Hill, Broomfield, 303-466-0800
11 am.-8 p.m., closed Wednesday
MARKET
WHY WE LOVE IT: North and South Indian products, Indian movies and a caring community.
WHAT TO GET: A complete frozen dinner.
THE BAZAAR
Pacific Ocean Marketplace
6600 W. 120th Ave., (between Sheridan and Wadsworth) Broomfield, 303-410-8168
Daily
ASIAN GROCERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: An English-speaking customer asks another woman at the deli counter a question, which is conveyed in Vietnamese to the one who is making the food, who answers in Chinese, and they all end up laughing. That’s the spirit of this large, bright, super-clean market that sells fresh fish, all kinds of greens, fruits and vegetables, teas, noodles, sauces and tasty little dumplings and sandwiches.
WHAT TO GET: Dim sum or banh mi.
THE “WHO KNEW?”
Turquoise Mesa Winery
555 Burbank St., in the Burbank Office Park, Broomfield, 303-653-3822
1-4 p.m. Saturday
WINE TASTING ROOM
WHY WE LOVE IT: In operation for four years, Turquoise Mesa produces four red and four white wines from Palisade grapes. You can try them all, and take a tour of the tiny winemaking operation.
WHAT TO GET: Their wine with your custom-made label.
THE OLD SCHOOL
Valente’s Deli Bakery
7250 Meade Street, Westminster, 303-429-0590
8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday
MARKET
WHY WE LOVE IT: For more than 50 years, the Valente family has kept area residents supplied with imported meats and cheeses, candy-coated almonds, anise, vanilla, orange and lemon pizzelles, and dessert cannolis.
WHAT TO GET: Fresh baked breads.
THE LOCALS’ SECRET
Wally’s Quality Meats & Delicatessen
11187 Sheridan Blvd., Westminster, 303-439-80249 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturday.
BUTCHER
WHY WE LOVE IT: This friendly, knowledgeable locally owned butcher carries locally grown meats, sauces and seasonings, and Traeger smokers.
WHAT TO GET: House-made bacon.
SUBURBS WEST
THE FAIRY TALE
Black Forest Deli
9535 W. 58th Ave., Arvada, 303-425-0265
7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday,
7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday
blackforestdeli.com
DELI
WHY WE LOVE IT: All kinds of European groceries line one wall of the store, from Viennese coffee to Swedish cloudberry preserves. On Wednesdays, fresh German bread and rolls come in from Wimberger’s Old World Bakery in Colorado Springs.
WHAT TO GET: Salami, chorizo, andouille and bangers. Or, a hot Reuben with homemade sauerkraut on fragrant dark rye.
THE WHOLE PIE
Gargaro’s Italian Bakery
5058 Marshall St., Arvada, 303-424-9881
10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday,
9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday
BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Beautiful loaves of white bread, plain or twisted, perfume the parking lot of this nondescript little house in an industrial neighborhood east of Wadsworth. The Gargaros specialize in food to go, including meatball and sausage grinders with cheese and peppers, eggplant parmigiana or ham on a homemade roll.
WHAT TO GET: Calzones, chicken soup, homemade sauce by the pint, fresh pasta or sausage by the pound.
THE OOH-LA-LA
La Patisserie Francaise
7885 Wadsworth Blvd., Arvada, 303-424-5056
8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday,
9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday
BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: No shortcuts at this 20-year veteran. All cream, all butter, all the time.
WHAT TO GET: Éclairs, fruit tarts, buttery chocolate croissants and fresh baguettes. And strudel.
THE DESTINATION
Historic Olde Town Arvada
Ralston Road (58th Avenue) and Olde Wadsworth Boulevard (west of Wedsworth Bypass), 303-420-6100
www.historicarvada.org
Hours vary
NEIGHBORHOOD
WHY WE LOVE IT: Start at Steve’s Meat Market, 5751 Olde Wadsworth Blvd., where you can get your elk processed or just buy some jerky. Stroll south to Rheinlander Bakery for strudel and check out their new Celia’s Gourmet gluten-free products. Next, browse the wine selection at Primo Vino. You have several lunch options: Ophelia’s and the Arvada Tavern, famed for its burgers. Holder of the city’s first liquor license, the tavern is right out of a vintage movie set, with a glass-brick facade, chrome bar stools and a gleaming shuffleboard table. Kitty-corner is DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant, and around the corner on Grandview, you’ll find the D Note, a live music hall and restaurant, Bliss, a bustling cafe by day and wine bar by night. Across the street to the east is the Grandview Tavern, where you can get a roasted poblano cheeseburger. Down the block a bit, Bread Winners has opened a gourmet market and deli.
THE QUEEN
Royal Bakery
9606 Ralston Road, Arvada, 303-940-20658 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-
Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday
BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Janina and Andy Nowotarski sell yeast buns, poppy-seed cakes and krusczyki, or angel wings, light twists of crisp-fried dough sprinkled with powdered sugar.
WHAT TO GET: Jelly doughnuts called paczki (pronounced “poonchki”).
THE DANISH DANISH
Totally Tasty Danish Bakery
6480 Wadsworth Bypass, Arvada, 303-431-63116:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 6:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday
BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: A little United Nations of a shopping center contains this Danish bakery, Greek and Mexican restaurants, a Vietnamese pho place and the Jefferson County motor vehicle office.
WHAT TO GET: Puff pastry filled with marzipan.
THE PILGRIMAGE
Applejack Wine & Spirits
3320 Youngfield St., Wheat Ridge, 303-233-3331
Closed Sunday
applejack.com
LIQUOR
WHY WE LOVE IT: Not only does Applejack have a gargantuan selection of spirits and beer, it also has a world-class cellar of Bordeaux wines. A must-stop before any big party, or when stocking your liquor cabinet.
WHAT TO GET: An Applejack Advantage Card, for members-only specials.
THE PRO
Edwards Meats
12280 W. 44th St., Wheat Ridge, 303-422-4397
Daily
BUTCHER
WHY WE LOVE IT: Excellent meats, including game, extensive seafood selection, plus wide range of gourmet groceries and produce.
WHAT TO GET: Homemade sausage.
THE TEMPTRESS
Penzeys Spices
7511 Grandview Ave., Arvada, 303-424-2777
SPICE SHOP
WHY WE LOVE IT: Now fans of the Penzeys Spices catalog don’t have to send away to Wisconsin for their goodies. This shop in Olde Town Arvada sells hundreds of spices and blends, from vindaloo curry to hot chocolate mix. Best of all, they let you smell before you buy.
WHAT TO GET: Tien Tsin chile
SUBURBS SOUTH
THE INSTITUTION
The Compleat Gourmet
7592 S. University Blvd., Centennial, 303-290-9222
9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday
compleatgourmet.com
KITCHEN STORE
WHY WE LOVE IT: For 22 years, this cheerful shop has offered an inspiring gathering place for cooks.
WHAT TO GET: Intricately painted Polish pottery, cookbooks, wedding registry.
THE DELIGHT
La Petite France Bakery
7475 E. Arapahoe Road, Englewood, 303-771-3314
7 a.m-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, 8 aq.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday
lapetitefrancebakery.com
BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Precision is everything when it comes to French pastry, and the attention to detail at La Petite France is exemplary. The soft, sweet flavor of rich butter infuses almost every item behind the counter.
WHAT TO GET: Raspberry rugelach.
THE GOBBLE
Shady Springs Ranch
South of Franktown, 303-660-5569 (call for appointment)
shadyspringsranch.moonfruit.com
TURKEY FARM
WHY WE LOVE IT: Farmer Dave Queen raises all-natural turkeys on 10 acres near Franktown. His free-rangers are cross-bred heritage birds that eat grasses, insects and grain.
WHAT TO GET: Thanksgiving 2007 orders on the website.
THE GODFATHER
Tony’s Meats
4991 E. Dry Creek Road, Littleton, 303-770-7024; 7421 W. Bowles Ave., Littleton, 720-377-3680; 151 W. Mineral Ave., 303-795-7887; Tony Rosacci’s Fine Catering, 12001 E. Caley Ave., Centennial, 303-662-9353 (closed Sunday); 874 W. Happy Canyon Road, Castle Rock, 303-814-3888
Daily
tonysmeats.com
BUTCHER/GOURMET GROCERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Great meat, great prepared foods and a great selection of gourmet groceries from around the world. Prime beef available from regional ranches.
WHAT TO GET: Check the website for weekly specials.
AURORA
THE TREASURE TROVE
Black Sea Market
7920 E. Mississippi, 303-743-8163
Daily
EASTERN EUROPEAN MARKET
WHY WE LOVE IT: Smoked fish and meats are the specialty of this hole-in-the-wall market, but you’ll be hard-pressed to walk out the door without a few jars of Russian or Bulgarian honey. Also, hard-to-find European confections.
WHAT TO GET: Frozen shrimp by the pound.
THE MEXICAN MEAT MARKET
Carnicería Guadalajara II
11385 E. Colfax Ave., 303-344-3862
Open daily, 8 a.m. -8 p.m.
MEXICAN, BUTCHER
WHY WE LOVE IT: Because butchers don’t look at you funny when you ask for sweetbreads, pig feet or a pound of chicken gizzards.
WHAT TO GET: Just about anything in chicken, beef, pork or goat. Hand-made tamales.
THE IMPORT
Han Ah Reum Mart
2751 S. Parker Road 303-745-4592
9 a.m.-9:30 p.m. daily
ASIAN MARKET
WHY WE LOVE IT: From the Japanese electronics at the front door to the unidentifiable pig parts in the freezer case in the back, this gigantic grocery/department store/Asian crafts center is a marvel. The produce is remarkably inexpensive and fresh.
WHAT TO GET: An extra hour off work to go through the whole place.
THE (NOT) RAW DEAL
Sir Loin Meat Shoppe & Fresh Seafood
1910 S. Havana St., 303-751-0707
Daily
sirloinshop.stores.yahoo.net
BUTCHER, MARKET
WHY WE LOVE IT: Even if they only sharpened our knives, we would worship Sir Loin. But they cut our meat (choice or prime) just the way we like it, and our buffalo, lamb and pork. Game, too, and rabbit, alligator and frog’s legs, and fresh fish and shellfish, and spices and other specialty foods, all reasonably priced.
WHAT TO GET: Check out the smoked stuff.
BOULDER COUNTY
THE SWEET TOOTH
A Grande Finale Patisserie
641 Main St., Louisville, 303-926-4084
7 a.m.-1 p.m., Sunday and Monday; 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday.
agrandefinale.com
BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: No great shakes from the outside, A Grande Finale unfolds into cases of elegant pastries, chocolates, cakes and pies. Wedding cakes, too.
WHAT TO GET: Try the mini Linzertortes, or a personal mousse – maybe gingersnap pumpkin or German chocolate – or a flakey, frangiapane-filled pithivier or a croissant stuffed with orange and chocolate. Or. Or.
THE TREASURE CHEST
Aladdin Market
780 W. Baseline Road, Lafayette, 303-604-1400
10 a.m.-8 p.m. daily
INDIAN, GROCERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Every favor, scent and texture of Indian cuisine, with a dash of Bollywood video rental thrown in for good measure.
WHAT TO GET: Seasoned Indian cooks will find all the ingredients they need, including fresh fruits and veggies. Beginners can get going with pre-packaged sauce mixes for dishes like chicken tikka masala.
THE PIT STOP
Corner Market & Bakery
401 S. Public Road, Lafayette, 303-666-8311
7 a.m – 5 p.m., Monday-Saturday
BAKERY, CAFE
WHY WE LOVE IT: Chef Steve Ogno, late of Tony’s Meats, fills a niche empty in Lafayette until now. Fine deli-style sandwiches, gourmet grab-and-go entrees and did we mention the enormous, definitely-not-for-one cinnamon rolls?
WHAT TO GET: Perfectly crispy mini baguettes and a bag of eggy little challa.
THE MEAT LOCKER
Herb’s Meats & Specialty Foods
2530 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303-499-8166
9:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Saturday
BUTCHER
WHY WE LOVE IT: Family-owned Herb’s will custom cut your holiday standing rib roast, or stock your freezer with what you need for day-to-day meals.
WHAT TO GET: Owner Bob Grass’s home-made soups, sauces or chili, or house-made sausages. Ranch-raised game, including rabbit, pheasant, quail and Grande Natural Elk from Del Norte.
THE INDULGENCE
Indulge Bakery
Southeast corner, 95th Street at Arapahoe Road, Lafayette, 303-926-1676
Closed Sunday
indulgebakery.com
BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Pastry chef Linda Willetto doesn’t do everything, only what she knows she does well. This means you’re choosing from flaky croissants, elegant fruit tarts, to-die-for chocolate cakes and from scratch pies.
WHAT TO GET: The $3 “grab box” of pastries chosen by the staff. No, you can’t peek before you buy.
THE PICK OF THE LITTER
PCs Pantry for Dogs and Cats
2600 30th St., Boulder, 303-245-9909
Open daily
pcspantry.com
PET BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Everything you need to pamper the pooch or puss in your family, from leashes and beds to bully sticks and locally made jerky-style treats for dogs and cats.
WHAT TO GET: PC’s Pizzas. Or a beef-flavored “Barkday” cake.
THE PACKAGE STORE
Superior Liquor
100 Superior Plaza Way, Superior, 303-499-6600
9 a.m.- 11 p.m., Monday-Saturday
superiorliquor.com
LIQUOR STORE
WHY WE LOVE IT: Like Boulder’s vaunted Liquor Mart, but grown up and moved to the suburbs.
WHAT TO GET: Organic and vegan wines, single-barrel bourbon, single-malt scotch and top-shelf sipping tequilas.
THE TOOL SHED
What’s Cooking
Southwest corner, 95th Street and Arapahoe Road, Lafayette, 303-666-0300
whatscookinginc.com
Closed Sunday
COOKWARE
WHY WE LOVE IT: All the gadgetry, crockery and cookware a home-chef could need, plus the customer service to back it up.
WHAT TO GET: Knife skills class.
THE OLD SCHOOL
Your Butcher Frank
900 Coffman St., Longmont, 303-772-3281
8 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday
BUTCHER
WHY WE LOVE IT: Traditional and fully stocked with the exotic stuff you might need, like sweetbreads, tripe, tongue, smoked shanks and lamb shanks, and the stuff you love, like fresh Italian and German sausages and bratwurst.
WHAT TO GET: The ham loaf is a high-speed train ride back to old-school Sunday dinner.
FRONT RANGE NORTH
THE MALL KID
Cottonwood Cupboard
5957 Sky Pond Drive, Loveland, 970-663-2253
10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.
KITCHEN STORE
WHY WE LOVE IT: This locally owned outpost in the middle of the Centerra mall sells dishes, cookware and gadgets of all kinds.
WHAT TO GET: Custom-made gift baskets.
THE INSTITUTION
The Cupboard
152 S. College Ave., Fort Collins, 970-493-8585
thecupboard.net
Open daily
KITCHEN STORE
WHY WE LOVE IT: For 35 years, Carey Hewitt and his knowledgeable staff have sold cookware, gadgets, specialty foods and cookbooks to Northern Colorado cooks.
WHAT TO GET: Cooking classes.
THE SHORTCUT
Gustavo’s Market
2567 S. Shields St. in the Raintree
Village shopping center, Fort Collins, 970-484-4877
gustavosmarket.com
Lunch, dinner Monday-Saturday
MARKET/TAKEOUT
WHY WE LOVE IT: Dress up a dinner or buy the whole thing at this chef-run market/cafe.
WHAT TO GET: Creamy tomato basil soup and apple-pear cobbler.
THE MASALA
India’s Rice-N-Spice
2531 S. Shields St, Fort Collins, 970-221-1552
MARKET
WHY WE LOVE IT: Not only can you get just about any spice you need for your curry, stock up on basmati rice in colorful cloth bags, and fill the freezer with ready-to-cook entrees, the smiling ladies at the register will give you recipes to try.
WHAT TO GET: Basmati rice in a brightly printed, zippered cloth bag you can later use as a purse.
THE NEW KID
Kitchen Alley
121 E. Fourth St., Loveland, 970-593-0130
Open daily
KITCHEN STORE
WHY WE LOVE IT: Part of downtown Loveland’s renaissance, this gadget paradise opened in November.
WHAT TO GET: A new knife.
THE SMART ONES
Otie’s Wine and Spirits
4630 Royal Vista Circle, southeast
corner of I-25 and Hwy 392 (Windsor Exit), Windsor, 970-204-1759
LIQUOR
WHY WE LOVE IT: They leave you alone for a couple of minutes when you first walk in, then offer knowledgeable advice about the wide selection of wines, beers and other hooch.
WHAT TO GET: Plenty of cold whites and sparklers.
WHERE THE BUFFALO ROAM
Spomer Ranch
23675 WCR 27 1/2, Milliken, 970-587-2001 7 days. Call for a tour.
homepages.peakpeak.com/~sbr/index.html
BISON RANCH
WHY WE LOVE IT: The Spomer Ranch has been owned and operated by the same family for 100 years and raises some of the best-tasting bison in the state. They also run the Red Barn Bison Company, an absentee-owner program for people who want to own a buffalo.
WHAT TO GET: Your own (live) bison! Or some jerky, ground meat, steaks and leather goods.
THE UNITED NATIONS
Taquería los Comales, Arirang Korean Restaurant, Las Delicias market, Hong Kong Buffet, Mabrook International Food Market, Tortillería Las Americas IV
Corner of Prospect and College avenues in Fort Collins
INTERNATIONAL
WHY WE LOVE IT: On either side of the Chuck E. Cheese’s, you’ll find an international collection of tiny shops and restaurants.
WHAT TO GET: Fresh-baked tortillas at the Mexican bakery.
THE SUGAR RUSH
Vern’s Toffee
444 S. Link Lane, Fort Collins, 970-493-7770
Call for a tour (must be over age 12)
vernstoffee.com
CANDY MAKER
WHY WE LOVE IT: Just sugar, cream, almonds and butter in this so-good-you’ll-moan toffee.
WHAT TO GET: A 1-pound box of toffee for $13.95
THE ANSWER TO “GOT MILK?”
Windsor Dairy
6427 WCR 68 1/2, 970-674-0571. Windsor exit (Colorado 392) from Interstate 25. Call for hours.
windsordairy.com
MILK, EGGS, MEAT
WHY WE LOVE IT: Two veterinarians run this organic dairy that supplies pasteurized milk to
Organic Valley, and sells raw milk and cream, organic eggs and meat on-site.
WHAT TO GET: Buy a share in a cow so you can taste the freshest milk, and pick up a dozen pale green eggs.
THE CARNIVORE
Yauk’s Specialty Meats
220 Main St., Windsor, 970-686-9080
Closed Sunday
MEAT MARKET
WHY WE LOVE IT: No fancy displays here, just locally grown meat, smoked on-site.
WHAT TO GET: Whole smoked turkey, housemade jerky.
FRONT RANGE SOUTH
THE DRIVE-BY
Alfonso’s Super Taco
2801 E. Main St., Cañon City, 719-276-0186
Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.
MEXICAN
WHY WE LOVE IT: For $7, drink and tax included, you can walk away from this stand with a fat burrito packed with the most flavorful meats imaginable, which you eat dripping juices down your chin at one of their creaky picnic tables or in your car.
WHAT TO GET: The carne asada supreme.
THE SPEAKEASY
15C
15 E. Bijou St. Suite C, Colorado Springs, 719-635-8303
Happy hour to cocktail hour
15cclub.com
BAR
WHY WE LOVE IT: Not since Prohibition has a bar worked so hard to keep a low profile. But seek out this timeless hole in the wall – in a dark alley, marked only by a tiny blue light over the door – and you are well-rewarded with the cocktail of your dreams. Hunch over the shiny wood bar or lounge on the sofa. The fact that people smoke at 15C only adds to its nostalgic feel.
WHAT TO GET: A Rob Roy or a Gibson.
THE BLESSED EVENT
Holy Cross Winery
3011 E. U.S. 50, 719-276-5191, Cañon City, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon-5 Sunday
abbeywinery.com
WINERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Benedictine monks have been honing their wine-making skills at the lovely abbey since 1924, and a few years ago opened the operation to the public.
WHAT TO GET: The riesling and a couple of one-of-a-kind wine glasses etched with the abbey’s emblem.
THE SUNBEAM
Hopscotch Bakery
333 S. Union Ave., Pueblo, 719-542-4467
Closed Sunday
hopscotchbakery.com
BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: The bright, friendly, retro-hip Hopscotch bakery, located in downtown (just across the river from I-25) is popular with locals and drive-bys alike. And if you like your cupcake, the proprietors can even cater your next event.
WHAT TO GET: Lemon squares.
THE SWEET TREAT
Nana’s Bakery Panadería
3255 E. Platte Ave., Colorado Springs, 719-473-4424
Daytime, closed Sunday
BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Nana’s has a way with sweets, especially the ones filled with pumpkin, mango and apple. A great source for authentic Mexican bread too.
WHAT TO GET: At five for $1, the galletita (tiny cookies, to some of us) are irresistable.
THE CAKE MAKER
Old Heidelberg Pastry Shop
1109 S. Tejon St., Colorado Springs,719-634-1052
3609 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Colorado Springs, 719-536-0979
Until 6 p.m., Monday-Saturday
oldheidelberg.net
BAKERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Old Heidelberg is more than a bakery, it’s a fun lunch spot where schnitzel and spaetzle keep the fare special. It just might be the best place for a fancy birthday cake in the Springs.
WHAT TO GET: The marble pound cake, packaged and ready to go.
THE WINE CONSULTANT
Queen Liquor
1744 W. Uintah, Colorado Springs, 719-475-1744
Closed sunday
LIQUOR STORE
WHY WE LOVE IT: There are plenty of larger liquor stores in the area, but the Queen rules because of her smart, affordable and well-edited wine selection. Each bottle feels carefully chosen and that makes it a safe and dependable place to shop.
WHAT TO GET: Chat up the friendly staff and they’ll give up their latest find.
THE HEALTHY CHOICE
Simple Foods Market
1548 G St., Salida, 719-539-7144
9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday
simplefoodsmarket.com
GROCERY
WHY WE LOVE IT: Simple Foods’ owners Laura and David Kephart can often be found unloading bushels and ringing up produce at the small, inviting store, which sells all-natural meats, organic everything, natural pet supplies and prepared stuff like salads and spreads.
WHAT TO GET: Something good for you.
THE COOK’S DREAM
Sparrow Hawk Ltd.
12 E. Bijou St., Colorado Springs, 719-471-3235
Closed Sunday
sparrowhawkcookware.com
KITCHENWARE
WHY WE LOVE IT: Foodies lose themselves in this downtown candy store for cooks. It is positively crammed with every kind of pot, pan and utensil known to man, plus a tasteful, high-quality collection of serving supplies.
WHAT TO GET: That odd-sized tart pan you didn’t know you needed.
HIGH COUNTRY
THE WELL-STOCKED BAR
Beaver Liquors
110 E. Beaver Creek Blvd., Avon, 800-483-9887
Open daily except Sunday
beaverliquors.com
LIQUOR STORE
WHY WE LOVE IT: Tasteless jokes and an obscene website aside, this place actually stocks great wines, the best beers (check out the beer of the month on sale) and a full line of cigars in its humidor. The T-shirts are sold all over the country to college kids.
WHAT TO GET: What’s on sale?
THE OASIS
Great Western Grog Shop
710 E. Durant Ave., Aspen, 970-925-3000
10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday, closed Sunday.
LIQUOR STORE
WHY WE LOVE IT: After you’ve already dropped a wad on drinks at an Aspen restaurant, and you’re headed back to the hotel, there’s nothing better than knowing hundreds of interesting, reasonably priced bottles – and beers! – await at the Grog mere blocks away, all at the right temps and ready to be poured into plastic cups.
WHAT TO GET: Anything vintage.
THE SECRET STASH
Grappa Fine Wines and Spirits
100 E. Meadow Drive, Vail, 970-479-9463
10 a.m.-midnight Monday-Saturday, closed Sunday
grappafinewines.com
LIQUOR STORE
WHY WE LOVE IT: The wine-of-the-month is a great way to try a new wine at a good price, but to really find the deals here, go downstairs and pick through the crates and bins on the floor, which are conveniently arranged by country and well labeled.
WHAT TO GET: A mixed case.
THE ARTISTIC APPROACH
The Kitchen Collage
34323 Colo. 6, Edwards, 888-239-4743
10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday
kitchencollage.com
KITCHENWARE, SPECIALTY FOODS
WHY WE LOVE IT: Not that you’ll necessarily need, say, an oval fish skillet while negotiating the I-70 corridor, but the selection at this store is fantastic, and they also have a section of specialty foods, including crackers, dips and salsas.
WHAT TO GET: The Jalapeño Squiggle Crackers.
THE PROCESSOR
Middle Park Meat Co.
1107 Colo. 9, Kremmling, 970-724-3880
BUTCHER/MARKET
WHY WE LOVE IT: Harlan Land has been minding the store at his meat processing plant for close to three decades, but it isn’t all about the meat. He has fancy condiments to serve with his out-of-this-world smoked bacon – not to mention weed-free hay for your horse.
WHAT TO GET: Apple-cured pork chops.
THE FORAGER
Specialty Foods of Aspen & The Cheese Shop
601 E. Hopkins Ave., Aspen, 970-544-6656
11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday
CHEESE SHOP, MARKET
WHY WE LOVE IT: Owner Michele Kiley searches the world for the cheeses and food items he offers at this delightful store.
WHAT TO GET: Panino du jour.
THE HEALTHY CHOICE
Winter Park Market
78336 U.S. 40, Kings Crossing Center, Winter Park, 970-726-4704
10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday, daily, 11-4 sunday, 10-6
GROCERY STORE
WHY WE LOVE IT: Homeopathic remedies and a juice bar share space with a full line of organic produce (oranges and carrots to slip in your pocket for mountain biking or slope snacks. Bonus for a small store: gluten-free and dairy-free stuff.
WHAT TO GET: A fresh berry smoothie.
WESTERN SLOPE
THE GO-TO
Carol’s Oriental
2814 North Ave., Grand Junction, 970-245-3286
9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily; closed
Sunday
ASIAN MARKET
WHY WE LOVE IT: No fresh produce or meats, but Carol’s carries just about everything else you’d need to make an Asian meal in this huge store, including the cookware. Japanese, Thai, Hawaiian, Filipino, Chinese, Vietnamese canned, frozen and packaged components are all here.
WHAT TO GET: Specialty soy sauces from many countries.
THE TOOL SHED
Cookworks
321 Elk Ave., Crested Butte, 800-765-9511
10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, closed Sunday
cookworks.com
KITCHENWARE, MARKET
WHY WE LOVE IT: Chocolate sauces and garlic and onion jam tempt from the food aisles, while the gadgets keep us occupied for hours. Foil cutter, anyone?
WHAT TO GET: Blackberry Honey Mustard Pretzel Dip from Robert Rothschild Farm.
THE SWEETIE
Enstrom’s Almond Toffee
200 S. Seventh St., Grand Junction, 970-683-1000
Daily
enstrom.com
CANDYMAKER
WHY WE LOVE IT: Enstrom’s almond toffee is one of Grand Junction’s proudest exports.
WHAT TO GET: Toffee crumbs for baking.
THE WORK STATION
Main Street Bagels Artisan Bakery & Café
559 Main St., Grand Junction, 970-241-2740
mainstreetbagels.net
BAKERY, DELI
WHY WE LOVE IT: Free wifi and fatty cinnamon rolls slicked with icing make for a top stop to get some work done, powered by well-brewed java. Meat or veggie soup and sandwiches served on fresh-baked breads mean you can log on right through lunch.
WHAT TO GET: A pecan schnecken, pastry loaded with gooey nuts.
THE ULTIMATE CONVENIENCE
Village Market
157 S. Fir St., Telluride, 970-728-4566
7:30 a.m.-9 p.m. daily
GROCERY STORE, DELI
WHY WE LOVE IT: Just two blocks from the gondola, sandwiches and a full line of prepared foods. Cheap, convenient and tasty, especially because they use organics whenever possible.
WHAT TO GET: A sandwich for the ride up.
