Red Square Euro Bistro: Think all vodkas are the same? Think again. One glance at Red Square’s extensive vodka list and you’ll know better. With hard stuff from Russia, the U.S., Switzerland, Ireland and Latvia among other places, the list also includes house infusions like honey, anise and horseradish. Bottoms up! | 1512 Larimer St., 303-595-8600 | Tucker Shaw
Jitter Shake: Stop by Biker Jim’s Freakishly Small Concession Stand on the 16th Street Mall and indulge in this creamy caffeinated concoction that Biker Jim calls “Crack in a Cup.” He mixes Kaladi Brothers’ Venetian Cream with a scoop of vanilla and a scoop of coffee ice cream. It’ll get you through the afternoon and into the evening. Afraid of caffeine and/or fat? Try the fruit sorbets, made in Boulder by Ice Cream Alchemy, which also makes Jim’s ice cream. He does his own cheesecakes, though. | Downtown, 16th and Arapahoe streets | Kristen Browning-Blas
Le Baguette: Bánh mì, the French-Vietnamese sandwich of pork, cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and jalapeño on a baguette is an excellent no-brainer hot-weather lunch. Competition is stiffer than ever among Federal Boulevard purveyors. One worthy entrant: Le Baguette, which offers nine varieties at $2.50 and up a pop. Get two, they’re good. | 1035 S. Federal Blvd., 303-934-3898 | Tucker Shaw
