 Best of Boulder County '07
In the immortal words of the balding, Anglo songster Phil Collins: There's something coming in the air tonight. As spring gives way to summer, there's a sense of hope and excitement making its way through Boulder County. Gone are the winter storms that pounded the Front Range so mercilessly and turned shoveling into a daily quest to find pavement. (Note to Boulder city officials: Your snow-removal plan sucks.) Now we can look forward to hikes in the mountains, weekend trips to Boulder County Farmers Market and naked hippie babies playing in that bidet fountain on the Pearl Street Mall. But more has changed in Boulder County than the season. The city of Boulder now has a shopping center, Twenty Ninth Street (it's located on 29th Street, in case you missed that). Longmont has citywide wi-fi. Cranes and bulldozers have moved in, erecting new buildings and plowing under Mother Nature's majestic artwork. And although Boulder may have one city council member who's a stoner—percentage-wise that's probably not representative of the stoner population; it should be five council members—it also has a governing body that passed one of the most progressive global warming policies in the country. We may be just a tiny, blue dot on a predominantly red map, but any resident can tell you that our county is unique—some might even say weird. And we're proud of it. Whether it's our unhealthy obsession with prairie dogs, our unique relationship with the citizens of Tajikstan or the JonBenet media freakfest, Boulder County has cemented its reputation as the eccentric uncle in Colorado's conservative little family. Boulder Weekly's 2007 annual Best of Boulder edition is a summary of what you, our readers, believe is awesome about our area. Unlike many counties that are overrun by strip malls and chain restaurants, our little shire has a smorgasbord of vibrant independent businesses, a unique culinary scene and top-notch educational, recreational and entertainment options, making it one of the nation's most exciting communities. Of course, all of this is just a reflection of the people who work and live here. In the end, Best of Boulder is a tribute to the hard work, talent and creativity of everyone who calls Boulder County home. We hope you enjoy this quick overview of our community!
NEWS MAKERS
BEST PLACE TO SEE COMEDY
Album's Bistro, 1124 13th St., 303-449-6637 Let's face it, Boulder, this is a funny town. With a demographic consisting of equal parts college students, hippies, hipsters and hipster hippies, we produce an environment that's ripe for parody. If you don't see the comedy in that, well, then, you're probably a hipster hippie—go paste another environmental bumper sticker on your BMW. For a clinic on Boulder-style humor, trot on down to Album's Bistro on The Hill and catch their Thursday night comedy show. Formerly hosted by local stand-up comedian and Daily Camera columnist, Dave Burdick, Album's has become the No. 1 venue in Boulder for edgy, young comedians to cut their teeth. Five dollars will get you in the door, and another couple of bucks will get you a pint of beer. But don't be late unless you're willing to get taunted mercilessly by whoever happens to be on stage. Album's owner, Andy Schneidkraut, has been supporting local artists, musicians and comics for more than 20 years at his establishment. A former stand-up himself, Andy is now a self-professed comedy scholar and one heck of a nice guy. He's been trying to help Boulder develop a sense of humor for a long, long time, and we love him for that.
BEST NAZI IMPRESSION
Josh McNair And the coveted BNI Award for 2007 goes to... Josh McNair. As an undergraduate at CU in 2004, Joshie-boy was extremely involved on campus, promoting uplifting intellectual events—like anti-Semitism. McNair was integral in bringing the noted Holocaust denier David Irving to lecture at CU. Irving's speech went something like this: "Blah, blah, blah, it's a Zionist plot, blah, blah, I'm a racist douche-bag, blah, blah." However, McNair wasn't done yet. Somehow he managed to get into grad school at CU and was teaching creative writing to students in 2007 when new information was uncovered about the angsty Aryan. In 2004, McNair won an essay contest sponsored by Stormfront, a white supremacist organization that also publishes writing by David Duke and various other KKK higher-ups on their website. The essay is called "Organization, Cooperation and Action." It starts off: "Whites are in a fairly precarious position today." We certainly are, Josh. Apparently, there are a bunch of cowardly dipshits like yourself writing crappy essays for other cowardly dipshits. But don't despair. We know it was a tough year, but at least you're going home with the BNI Award. Way to go!
BEST BIRTHDAY BASH
Fox Theatre's 15th Anniversary Celebration Since opening in 1992, the Fox Theatre has emerged as one of America's most sought-after venues to play and has brought an alarming number of top draws to Boulder. When Dave Matthews used the Theatre as the backdrop to his breakthrough 1994 video, "What Would You Say," the Fox went from a local club to national tour destination. The city has changed a lot since 1992, and with The Hill in a state of change the Fox's importance to the community as a neighborhood anchor has only increased. So when the Fox turned 15 earlier this year, it was cause to celebrate, and the Fox did it the only way they know how—with a week of world-class music. Featured acts included the John Butler Trio, Robert Randolph and the Family Band, Umphrey's McGee, local favorite Big Head Todd and the Monsters and the Funky Meters, the band that headlined the venue's inaugural 1992 show. Thanks for a rockin' 15 years, Fox, and here's to at least 15 more.
BEST REASON TO BECOME A CIVIL SERVANT
The judicial system works—for you "Dude, I'm totally going to be a city councilman." "Far out, man." "Yeah, it's gonna be, like, radical, dude." Civics was always such a boring class in high school. By the time the teacher finished talking about the legislative branch and the executive branch and the judicial branch, you just wanted someone to hit him over the head with a goddamn branch. But cheer up, kiddies! Politics doesn't have to be boring. Just ask City Councilman Erwin "Richard" Polk, who was arrested on suspicion of driving while under the influence of kind bud back in September 2006. According to the police report, Officer Keith Steinman pulled Polk over for erratic driving and discovered an unusual odor emanating from Polk's car. Finding an allegedly warm pipe, the cop understandably concluded that Polk had been tokin' and drivin'. Not only that, but Polk had pot in his pocket—though, as he told the officer, it wasn't good shit. Polk denied driving while high, and, after much judicial consideration, the D.A. allowed Polk to plead guilty to reckless driving. Then city council permitted Polk to keep his post, deciding that city policy required him to resign only if he'd committed a felony. Now, we have nothing against smoking weed, provided you don't get behind the wheel. But it would be interesting to see how this little scenario would have played out if it had been a random CU student driving that car instead of a city leader.
BEST REASON TO ROCK
Big C — CD benefit for the Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers Foundation After beating the odds and becoming a five-year cancer survivor, local musician Jon Henderson decided to throw a party. That party turned into an annual event, the Beating Cancer Benefit, which has raised money for the Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers Foundation (RMCCF) in its four years. Henderson has had a continued personal battle with the disease—and has continued his charity efforts at the same time. His current efforts are focused on a project known as the Big C, a documentary/CD designed to educate and support newly diagnosed cancer patients. The soundtrack, performed by Henderson's band SPYZ, is available now at CDBaby.com, and the documentary is scheduled to be filmed at the end of the month. A token award is not nearly enough to honor the efforts of those who have battled cancer personally and those who do so through charity work. Still, consider this our little token of gratitude to someone who is countering cancer by rocking out for a cure.
BEST VIOLIN CONCERTO INVOLVING BRUSHES, NOT BOWS
Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra's ArtStrings Painted Violin Project The Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO) is a class organization that provides the community with stellar classical music performances and educational programs. As a nonprofit entity, BPO isn't afraid to sing for its supper, but this past year the organization took up a new artistic approach to raising funds—painting. For the ArtStrings Painted Violin Project, the orchestra selected 15 local artists to use violins as their canvas to be turned into a work of art. The instruments took on many designs and colors, including a Dushanbe Teahouse-themed violin and one angelic offering constructed of 22-gauge steel. The violins were put on display in local galleries for two months and then auctioned off to benefit the Boulder Phil. It was a worthy fundraiser for a worthy cause—an event that brought together local artists and artistic mediums, providing the community with culture and beauty, which in turn supported the creation of more culture and beauty. That is something truly deserving of a Best of Boulder award.
MOST LIKELY TO HOLD THE NEWS CYCLE HOSTAGE
JonBenet Ramsey The unsolved murder of a 6-year-old Boulder beauty queen—it's a story that has the makings for a TV miniseries. But why spend money writing a miniseries when you can dust off the newsreels any time a new detail in the JonBenet case emerges? TV networks made a killing last August when John Mark Karr, an American who'd been arrested in Thailand, confessed to JonBenet Ramsey's murder. Overnight, the Boulder County Courthouse morphed from low-key municipal building to a veritable squatting village of hot-shot network reporters wearing make-up and toting Blackberries. The Boulder County D.A. shelled out an estimated $24,000 managing the affair, $6,000 of which was spent flying Karr first-class to Denver. (He enjoyed the shrimp, we were told.) In the end, the ordeal couldn't have worked out better for Karr. Not only were all the charges against him dropped, but he got his ass out of a Thai jail—and a first-class plane ride home. The only downside is that pretty much everyone in America knows who he is, and they think he's mighty creepy.
BIGGEST REASON WHY COLORADO ISN'T REALLY BLUE
Referendum I fails, Amendment 43 passes There were a lot of reasons to bust out the bubbly last November. Not only did both Colorado Houses remain Democrat, but Colorado elected Democratic Gov. Bill Ritter—a huge feat in a traditionally red(neck) state. But not all liberals were doing their victory dance on election day. Coloradans rejected Referendum I, which would have legalized same-sex civil unions, and strongly affirmed Amendment 43, which went beyond existing state laws to permit marriage only between a man and a woman. While some said that the vote was a result of voter confusion, it's hard to ignore Colorado's unequivocal statement about gay rights—an echo of its shameful anti-gay Amendment 2 past, when gays were denied protection from discrimination. The scene may be disheartening for some, but the silver lining is the increased momentum that Boulder PRIDE and other groups gained from the Referendum I campaign. "If anything, it has strengthened us," Sonya Lewis, president of Boulder PRIDE told Boulder Weekly. "We had lesbian, gay and straight people coming forward saying, 'What can we do to help?' We now have new people that want to volunteer for PRIDE."
MOST ARTICULATE MESSAGE TO A POLITICIAN
Kathleen Ensz and her doggy doo-doo mailers Who do Republicans think they're kidding? No matter how many commercials they fund, or how many mailers they stuff into Democrats' boxes—we're not buying their bullshit excuses for the Iraq war or the long list of scandals coming out of the Bush administration. And we're not about to switch to the other side. This point was lost on Rep. Marilyn "Focus on Everyone Else's Family" Musgrave, who ran a close race against kick-ass Democratic contender Angie Paccione last fall. Musgrave's office sent so many flyers to Kathleen Ensz, a Democratic Longmont resident, that Ensz decided to return the junk mail—with a little something extra special. Ensz stuffed the mailers and a good helping of smelly dog shit into the Musgrave office's mail slot. We wish Ensz would have created a projectile with the package, but nobody's perfect. Musgrave staffers, who were dying for something to focus on besides gay people, made a huge stink about the issue and got the police involved. All Ensz got in return was a misdemeanor charge and a court date—plus the satisfaction of sending an unequivocal "fuck you" to one of Colorado's most ridiculously reactionary (and scary) politicians. Back to top
FOOD & DRINK
APPETIZERS/TAPAS
Reader & Staff Pick: The Mediterranean Restaurant
1002 Walnut St., 303-444-5335
Runner-up: The Kitchen
Honorable Mention: Dagabi Cucina So you can't afford a European vacation just now. How about sampling Spain, Italy and Greece one bite at a time? Whether looking for a light bite to eat or a tasty introduction to a meal, The Mediterranean Restaurant (commonly known among Boulderites as "The Med") brings the taste of that region to Boulder and is the clear favorite when it comes to tapas. For about $5 a piece, you can send your taste buds on a trip they won't forget. If you visit the Med during the warmer months the best place to enjoy selections like the Caprese or Spinach and Lamb Empanadilla is on the patio where the fountain and foliage are reminiscent of the region that inspired the restaurant. A commitment to using local and organic ingredients makes The Kitchen is a perfect place for those who want to fight global warming and keep it local when it comes to their food choices—and that's all of us, right? The recent addition of the wine lounge provides a wide selection of wines to pair with the tapas. If Italian food is your flare, then Dagabi Cucina is the place for you. Enjoy conventional Italian cuisine in a casual, contemporary setting that provides the perfect atmosphere to indulge in favorites like the Melanzane Con Caprino and Calamari Fritti during Tapas Happy Hour.
BAGEL
Reader & Staff Pick: Moe's Broadway Bagel
2650 N. Broadway, 303-444-3252
3075 Arapahoe Ave., 303-442-4427
Runner-up: Einstein Brothers Bagels
Honorable Mention: Big Daddy Bagels Boulder loves bagels. No doubt about that. And Boulder Weekly readers love Moe's Broadway Bagel. For seven years running—longer than the duration of the average marriage—B-dub's readers have voted Moe's No. 1. Moe's is the quintessential Boulder spot to find a wide variety of fresh bagels to start your day. But Moe's is more that just a breakfast stop. The lunch menu represents the flavor of Boulder with specialties like the Jive Turkey and the Yummus Hummus. And don't forget to indulge your taste buds in the pizza and salad selections. The runner-up in this category, Einstein Brothers Bagels, gives Boulder a different type of bagel experience at both locations. Choosing from bagels and other goodies on the menu provide thought for food to start your day. Big Daddy Bagels, a locally owned and operated shop, has been providing traditional bagels to Boulder since 1996. The full espresso bar, smoothies and deli are among the reasons our readers have voted Big Daddy an honorable mention when it comes to bagels.
BREAKFAST
Reader & Staff Pick: Lucile's
2124 14th St., 303-442-4743
518 Kimbark St., Longmont, 303-774-9814
Runner-up: Walnut Café / South Side Walnut Café
Honorable Mention: Dot's Diner, Turley's It may be time to give Lucile's its own category, as it almost seems unfair to the rest of the competition that every year the best Creole restaurant not adjacent to the Mississippi River wins Best Breakfast in Boulder. One bite into their Eggs Jennifer or Creole Omelet and you'll understand why Lucile's garners the gold. The cozy atmosphere, homemade strawberry rhubarb jam and to-die-for beignets will make the most modest Boulderite feel like southern royalty. For something unique, try the blackened salmon breakfast with grits, and wash it down with Lucile's house blend tea. No restaurant should feel slighted by coming in second to Lucile's, especially in a town like Boulder, which has so many world-class eateries that we could devote an entire issue to just the best breakfast spots. Try this: Start eating out for breakfast every day, going to a different restaurant each morning until you encounter a subpar meal. Smart money says you'll go a month before you find a bad one. If you do take on this challenge, we recommend beginning at the Walnut Café and its little sister, the South Side Walnut Café, which came in as runner-up. Both menus are loaded with healthy, Boulder-friendly fare. Both bars offer all variety of high-octane espresso drinks. And each café is loaded with character. And don't get us started on the Eggs Marcos. If you're looking for a slice of historic Boulder, sink your teeth into the offerings at this year's co-honorable mentions, Dot's Diner and Turley's. Dot's offers good old-fashioned grub and a delicious maté that will kickstart your day in overdrive. Turley's is as Boulder as it gets, and any day that begins with one of their delicious scrambles is a good day.
BAKERY
Reader & Staff Pick: Breadworks
2644 Broadway, 303-444-5667
Runner-up: Great Harvest Bread Company If you need to get your grain on, Breadworks is the place to go. A locally owned independent business, Breadworks uses the finest, healthy ingredients and bakes up a storm, drawing crowds of very loyal, very hungry people. For breakfast try a crisp, light brioche or buttery croissant. Lunch is done right with sandwiches featuring handmade artisan breads. Or choose a saucer-size cookie and a latté. The rich and spicy gingersnaps are a favorite. For the love of bread, Boulderites choose the Great Harvest Bread Company. With various whole-grain breads freshly made each morning and mouth-watering sweets, this national franchise is a favorite with the Boulder crowd.
BURGER
Reader & Staff Pick: Mountain Sun / Southern Sun Pub & Brewery
1535 Pearl St, 303-546-0886
627 S. Broadway, 303-543-0886
Runner-up: Tom's Tavern
Honorable Mention: Dark Horse, V.G. Burgers Sure, we love our granola in Boulder, but nothing in the world compares to sinking those pearly whites into a burger fresh from the grill—especially after climbing one of Colorado's famed 14'ers. Boulder's love of beef and healthy sensibilities come together at the Mountain Sun/Southern Sun Pub & Brewery, which serve up all-natural beef patties with lettuce, tomato and onion, but hold the antibiotics, growth hormones and steroids. Try this: Hike the Triple Peak Challenge (Green Mountain, Bear Peak and South Boulder Peak) then celebrate with a burger and a cool draw of the Sun's house-brewed ale. If you're fresh off the Greyhound and find yourself wandering along Pearl Street looking for some grub, ask any stranger you meet where you can get a good burger. Undoubtedly they'll all point you to the west end of the Mall to Tom's Tavern, a Boulder staple and this year's runner-up for Best Burger. Tom's serves it up old-school. This is no-frills dining at its finest. Looking for servers singing birthday tunes, donning "flair" and trying to up-sell you jalapeño poppers? Tom's isn't the place for you. But if you're looking for a great burger, make Tom's your neighborhood tavern. The Dark Horse gets an honorable mention for its world-class burgers and scrumptious curly fries. And at the Dark Horse you can watch the game with your buddies on one of their many television sets. If you're feeling sporty you can knock the puck around yourself with a round of air hockey. Joining the Dark Horse as an honorable mention is newcomer V.G. Burgers, a vegetarian fast-food joint. We love good food, and we love good food fast—and we love things that make us say, "Only in Boulder." Therefore, we love V.G. Burgers.
BURRITO
Reader Pick: Illegal Pete's
1320 College Ave., 303-444-3055
1447 Pearl St., 303-440-3955
Runner-up: Chipotle
Honorable Mention: Wahoo's Fish Taco Once again, our readers agree that Illegal Pete's has the best burritos in town. A Pete's burrito is more than just sustenance; it's a trusted friend, a companion, a magical elephant that lives in your closet and listens to acid jazz while you're partying with Gwen Steffani and the former cast of Small Wonder... Umm, OK, that was pretty weird. This eatery was so popular when it first hit Pearl Street that they were forced to open new locations on College Avenue and in Denver. With fresh, quality toppings stuffed into a warm tortilla, it's no wonder that this is a favorite haunt for students and yuppies alike. Every burrito is hand-wrapped with care and precision by a Pete's employee, then delivered to you like a newborn baby. Except much tastier, of course. Coming in second, Chipotle's burritos are a meal all by themselves. You definitely need two hands to eat this monster (and it also helps if you can unhinge your jaw like a boa constrictor and stuff that puppy right in there). The Chipotle assembly line is filled with a wide variety of options, including both black and pinto beans and a tasty corn salsa that adds spice and flavor to every bite. It's fish, it's tacos––what's not to like? Even when it's so cold outside that penguins are wearing fleece and the Skip seems like a human meat locker, you can still find solace at Wahoo's Fish Taco, where every day is a beach party. This Hawaiian-themed restaurant combines Mexican, Asian and Cajun fare into tasty meals.
BUSINESS LUNCH
Reader & Staff Pick: The Kitchen
1039 Pearl St., 303-544-5973
Runner-up: Brasserie Ten Ten
Honorable Mention: Prima Ristorante Prove your commitment to being "green" to a business acquaintance with lunch at a restaurant committed to providing dishes that are prepared from local, organic ingredients and to being eco-friendly in their business practices. The Kitchen provides just enough privacy amid murmuring noise from the open restaurant and kitchen to make it the perfect setting for a business lunch. The lunch menu changes seasonally, offering fresh dishes just as diverse as the crowd that frequents The Kitchen. Hustling and bustling through the day? Busy Boulderites agree that the French and Italian cuisine, prepared by the runner-up and honorable mention winners are among the best for a lunchtime meeting. Brasserie Ten Ten provides the perfect setting to enjoy a business lunch in an upscale setting that compliments the unique French cuisine served here. Or enjoy Italian classics with a twist at Prima Ristorante. Choose from a more private setting or the open patio while you delight in savory dishes.
DESSERT
Reader & Staff Pick: Glacier Homemade Ice Cream
4760 Baseline Rd., 303-499-4760
3133 28th St., 303-440-6542
1350 College Ave., 303-442-4400
Runner-up: Spruce Confections
Honorable Mention: Belvedere Belgian Chocolate Shop Boulder might be the healthiest city in the nation, but man (and woman) cannot live on tofu alone. When it comes to dessert, they flock en masse to Glacier Homemade Ice Cream. Glacier offers more than 80 flavors of creamy, cold stuff that can be enjoyed alone or mixed with your favorite ingredients, such as chocolate chips and marshmallows. For those who need a treat but are feeling a bit more health conscience, Glacier provides a variety of low-fat yogurts to choose from. A trip down Pearl Street will most likely land anyone with a love of sweets and pastries at Spruce Confections. Just a glimpse at the cases full of cakes, brownies, cookies, croissants and scones will make your mouth water. Favorites like the espresso sour cream brownies or the golden macaroons will leave you begging for more. Chocoholics agree that the Belvedere Belgian Chocolate Shop is the best place to indulge in a velvety melt-in-your-mouth treat. With a variety of authentic, preservative-free chocolates using imported Belgian chocolate, this chocolate shop deserves an honorable mention.
HAPPY HOUR
Reader & Staff Pick: The Mediterranean
1002 Walnut St., 303-444-5335
Runner-up: Trilogy Wine Bar & Lounge
Honorable Mention: Mountain Sun/Southern Sun Pub and Brewery There are happy hours and then there are HAPPY hours, and The Mediterranean definitely deserves the latter designation. With their famous tapas menu, you can fill up your entire table with delectable treats and create a delightful communal dining experience without breaking the bank. I'll take the falafel... no, wait, I want the hummus... Actually, no, give me some of those giant olives. Hold on there, cowboy. At The Med, you can have it all—and wash it down with tasty drinks from the full-service bar. It's a well-known fact that any restaurant owned by identical triplets from New Jersey is going to totally rock. Jill, Jessica and Jennifer Emich are the Trilogy sisters. Remember those Double Mint twins from the old commercials? Double your pleasure, double your fun. Well, we're betting the Emich sisters could totally kick their ass in a cage fight. Not only that, but they serve up one of the best happy hours in town. J3, we love you. No bar in town has more microbrews on tap than the Mountain Sun Brewery and its sister establishment, the Southern Sun. The service is friendly, the beers are always fresh, and they regularly hold full-fledged bluegrass hootenannies smack dab in the middle of the restaurant. Come to their happy hour from 4–6 p.m., and start sampling some of the best beers in America. But, hey, don't take our table.
FINE DINING
Reader & Staff Pick: Flagstaff House Restaurant
1138 Flagstaff Rd., 303-442-4640
Runner-up: Frasca Food and Wine
Honorable Mention: Sunflower Boulder is home to many world-class attractions. One of them is a restaurant—the world renowned Flagstaff House. With an internationally acclaimed wine list, Flagstaff House has served five-star cuisine to everyone from prom kings and queens to genuine royalty—the kind whose crowns have real diamonds. It's the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a special celebration and offers a menu as unique as its mountain setting. Showcasing the cuisine of Friuli, Italy, Frasca offers a seasonal menu that changes nightly, bringing diners back again and again to see what Chef Lachlan MacKinnon-Patterson is serving up. Creative dishes are complemented perfectly with fine wines from Frasca's celebrated list of Friulano wines. A favorite since 1999, The Sunflower gives Boulder County residents a fine-dining experience with an emphasis on organic ingredients and an array of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
CHINESE
Reader & Staff Pick: The Golden Lotus
1964 28th St., 303-442-6868
Runner-up: Moongate Asian Bistro
Honorable Mention: Orchid Pavilion Who knew that Chinese food could be so good in Boulder? Don't let the statues outside the front door of the No. 1 favorite Golden Lotus intimidate you. Once inside, you'll be in a serene setting to enjoy the traditional Chinese menu. And guess what? There's no MSG in any of the dishes, so rest assured you are getting a healthy meal. The lively décor featuring Chinese-themed statues provides an authentic setting for tasty items that range from the traditional like Moo Shoo Chicken to something a little different like the Kung Pao Squid. Remember the song, "One Night in Bangkok"? Well now you can have a taste of it when you visit the Moongate Asian Grill. Garnering raves countywide for its healthy Asian fusion cuisine, Moongate offers a wealth of vegetarian options. Tradition is the word that comes to mind when you walk in the Orchid Pavilion, not only because of its menu but because it's been part of the Boulder scene forever. If a reasonable price and many palatable options are your thing then this is the place for you. With 14 years of catering to Boulder's Asian cravings, the Orchid Pavilion receives an honorable mention in this category.
ICE CREAM
Reader & Staff Pick: Glacier Homemade Ice Cream
4760 Baseline Rd., 303-499-4760
3133 28th St., 303-440-6542
1350 College Ave., 303-442-4400
Runner-up: Ben & Jerry's
Honorable Mention: Boulder Ice Cream, Bliss Organic Ice Cream Everyone loves ice cream, and in Boulder everyone loves Glacier Homemade Ice Cream. It might be the 80 flavors, or it might be all the yummy stuff you get mixed into your creamy treat. Or maybe it's the fact that the servers don't sing those stupid songs like Cold Stone Creamery. Whether you like the simplicity of vanilla or want green tea ice cream full of Snickers bits, they've got your ice cream craving covered. They also have fat-free frozen yogurt for the hard-core health nut. Sure, you can pick this ice cream up in any supermarket freezer, but Ben and Jerry's is best enjoyed at the Scoop Shop on the Pearl Street Mall. With its commitment to social and environmental issues, Ben & Jerry's, though a chain, supports the causes Boulder residents care about, while also satisfying their sweet tooth. Locally owned ice cream shops, Boulder Ice Cream and Bliss Organic Ice Cream, share honorable mention status this year. In true Boulder fashion, both are committed to organic ingredients, making their creations a lick above the rest.
COFFEE
Reader Pick: Trident Booksellers and Café
940 Pearl St., 303-443-3133
Staff Pick: Laughing Goat Coffee House
1709 Pearl St., 303-440-4628
Runner-up: Vic's Coffee
Honorable Mention: Amante Coffee, Bookend Café No corporate winners in this category. Boulder residents like their caffeine brewed in locally owned shops. Perhaps it is the intimacy of the quaint setting or the view of the Flatirons from the west end of Pearl Street, but readers agree the best coffee in Boulder can be found at the Trident Booksellers and Café. And not just the best coffee, but the best conversations. The Trident is where the erudite and hip like to sit and sip. B-dub's staff gives props this year to the Laughing Goat Coffee House. The recently opened Laughing Goat not only serves a great espresso, but also hosts artsy events for you to enjoy while you sip on your latté in the evening or work during the day. Offering yet another non-corporate coffee shop with a hip atmosphere, Vic's Coffee earns the runner-up in this category with a zillion locations around town. Rounding out the category with an honorable mention are Amante Coffee and the Bookend Café, each offering a unique setting for coffee lovers to enjoy a cup of joe.
INDIAN
Reader & Staff Pick: Taj Restaurant
2630 Baseline Rd., 303-494-5216
Runner-up: Tandoori Grill
Honorable Mention: Sherpa's Maybe it's karma, but three Indian restaurants keep tumbling over one another for B-dub's top honors year after year with this year's votes going to Taj Restaurant, known locally as "The Taj." Our readers can't get enough of the fresh, MSG-free cuisine served up by the friendly staff. The all-you-can-eat lunch buffet makes this a perfect spot to get your fill during the hectic workday. Vegetarians can rest assured that they will be satisfied with the selection of meatless dishes. Another perennial Boulder favorite, Tandoori Grill, offers East Indian cuisine baked in a traditional clay oven. The $7 lunch buffet seems to feed all of SoBo, drawing a hungry business crowd each weekday. Order an array of meats from the menu, including chicken, lamb and shrimp, or go for one of the many vegetarian and curry dishes available. Try a Mangorita from Tandoori's full-service bar. Sherpa's offers meals inspired by the traditions of Nepal and Tibet. A trip to the travelers lounge will complete your culinary experience with books about the region.
JUICE/SMOOTHIE
Reader & Staff Pick: Jamba Juice
3053 Arapahoe Ave., 303-247-1170
Runner-up: Berry Best Health experts say its important to eat five fruits and vegetables each day. And, no, jelly and ketchup don't count. One quick way to beef up your fruit and veggie intake is to suck them through a straw. The California-based Jamba Juice chain is the favorite place for our readers to grab a glass of fresh carrot juice or a tangy fruit smoothie. More than 20 varieties of fruit smoothies and boosters, like the vita boost or energy boost, provide Boulderites with a smart drink or quick meal substitute. Berry Best is a locally owned smoothie joint. Its upbeat staff serves up equally fresh and tasty smoothies.
CATERING
Reader & Staff Pick: A Spice of Life
6333 Arapahoe Rd., 303-443-4049
Runner-up: Whole Foods Parties with good food rock. Cooking and cleaning up sucks. That's why so many Boulder Weekly readers call A Spice of Life Catering when they need to feed the multitudes. Whether you're hosting a wedding or a wake, A Spice of Life has the menu for you. They slave over the hot stove; you and your guests party and stuff your faces with delicious fare that ranges from spicy and exotic to traditional. Does it get better than that? Whole Foods wins runner-up this year. The store's reputation for providing healthful and organic food choices extends to the catering menu, which offers Boulder-friendly vegan and vegetarian options.
MARGARITA
Reader & Staff Pick: The Rio Grande
1101 Walnut St., 303-444-3690
Runner-up: Zolo Grill The recipe for The Rio Grande's margaritas has been an in-house secret for years. These margs are so strong and so damned tasty that there's a three-drink limit per customer––and believe us when we say that three is more than enough for any normal human being (and some small elephants). Even the most dedicated alcoholic on the B-dub staff (we're talking about you, Sue France) is ready to throw in the towel after that second marg hits home. The Rio has been a pre-drink destination for college students and hipsters for years, and we don't see that changing anytime soon. Zolo Grill has more than 140 different types of tequila. Allow us to repeat that: Zolo has more than 140 different types of tequila! You won't find any generic, boring mix drinks at this Boulder institution. Every margarita is mixed up by folks who know why God created tequila. At Zolo, the margaritas are magnificent, masterly, meaningful, magnanimous, mellifluous, matrimonial... mmmmmmmm.
MEXICAN
Reader & Staff Pick: Efrain's Mexican Restaurant
1630 N. 63rd St., 303-440-4045
101 E. Cleveland St., Lafayette, 303-666-7544
451 S. Pratt Pkwy., Longmont, 720-494-0777
Runner-up: Zolo Grill
Honorable Mention: Rio Grande, Juanita's Mexican Food, Casa Alvarez Forget the chihuahua. You don't have to run for the border. Just get on over to Efrain's when you need an authentic Mexican fix. Efrain's Mexican Restaurant has won the hearts of Boulderites with favorites like the Chili Verde Burrito. With a homey feel and a great margarita to accompany your meal, the place is always packed, no matter which of its three county locations you visit. Locally owned and operated by the Gomez family, it's an example of good food and good service resulting in success. Zolo Grill offers Mexican cuisine with a twist, fusing New and Old World tastes for something upscale and truly unique. Try the Boar Quesadilla, the BBQ Duck Tacos or the Filet of Ahi Tuna. Wash it down with one of Zolo's signature margaritas for a meal beyond the ordinary. Three area mainstays share honorable mention this year—The Rio Grande, Juanita's Mexican Food and Casa Alvarez, each with its own specialties and unique flavors. Boulder is truly a haven for the lover of Mexican food.
PIZZA
Reader & Staff Pick: Nick-N-Willy's Take-and-Bake Pizza
801 Pearl St., 303-444-9898
4800 Baseline Rd. Unit A-111, 303-499-9898
Runner-up: Abo's Pizza
Honorable Mention: Proto's Pizzeria Napoletana Few earthly experiences are as joyful as biting into a slice of pizza fresh from the oven—an experience impossible with delivery pizza. Restaurant pizza may be nice, but there's something wholesome about gathering around the dining table with your family on pizza night, the smell of garlic and tomatoes filling the house. The next best thing to homemade is Nick-N-Willy's, a longtime Boulder favorite and this year's Best of Boulder. Enjoy one of their many specialty pizzas, or keep it simple with a classic pepperoni. Either way, call ahead and let Nick-N-Willy's do the hard work. Pick up your freshly prepared pie, pop it in your home oven, fill your lungs with that sweet smell and dig in to an Italian classic fresh from your own oven. How does Boulder's high population of East Coast transplants get a taste of home? With a big-as-your-head slice of Abo's Pizza, this year's runner-up. Abo's serves it up New York style, and with fair prices and numerous locations throughout the city, home is never more than a slice away. And if home was in Naples—or if you're of Southern Italian descent or just, well, like a good pie—Proto's Pizzeria Napoletana, this year's honorable mention, is the place to get your fix. One thing is for sure, there's no shortage of excellent pizza in Boulder, and any of this year's winners would make a great place to visit Italy—Boulder-style.
PLACE TO BRING KIDS
Reader & Staff Pick: Red Robin
2580 Arapahoe Ave., 303-442-0320
Runner-up: Noodles & Co.
Honorable Mention: Mountain Sun/Southern Sun Pub & Brewery Is there life after parenthood? When it comes to eating out, too often the answer is no. But there are a handful of places in Boulder where little ones are truly welcome. Red Robin tops this year's list. With a wide variety of burgers, endless fries and tasty shakes—not to mention the balloons and mini-arcade—Red Robin is always a hit with the tykes. You might even have time to eat a meal yourself. Maybe it is the feeling of closeness in Noodles & Co. that makes it a perfect place to bring your kids. Or maybe it is the famous Wisconsin Mac & Cheese. Whatever it is, it has earned this lively restaurant the title of runner-up for a kid-friendly zone. Bring your kids to the pub? Of course there is nothing wrong with it—at least not at the Mountain Sun / Southern Sun Pub & Brewery. With a mellow setting that welcomes all, you can enjoy your meal just as much as your kids do. With a selection of burgers and grilled cheese, you and your rug rats will feel right at home.
PLACE TO EAT OUTDOORS
Reader & Staff Pick: Chautauqua Dining Hall
900 Baseline Rd., 303-440-3776
Runner-up: Boulder Farmer's Market
Honorable Mention: Mediterranean Restaurant It's T minus 60 minutes, and you're in a race with time to find the perfect restaurant to impress your girlfriend's parents. The Flagstaff House? Too expensive. Abo's? Not fancy enough. You could have them over to your place, but the fuzzy stuff on top of the Chinese food containers doesn't exactly pass as a dinner salad. Eureka! You've got it! Dining at Chautauqua. Any tourist from Nebraska or Nagasaki can appreciate the beauty of Chautauqua Park, and the historic Chautauqua Dining Hall offers innovative lunch and dinner options served on the deck, along with views of the Flatirons. It's the perfect cross between fine dining and fresh air. If you're looking for cheaper fare, a picnic on the Chautauqua lawn is always popular, and it's a perfect prelude to an after-dinner hike, a symphony concert or a silent film in the auditorium. If you want to pick up your rutabagas and can't wait another minute for a mint chocolate-chip ice cream cone, stop by the Boulder Farmers Market, which takes place Saturday mornings and Wednesday afternoons. Those wanting fine outside dining love The Mediterranean's outside patio. Add some sunshine, wine and tapas—who could ask for more?
LATE NIGHT
Reader & Staff Pick: Abo's Pizza
1110 13th St., 303-443-3199
2761 Iris Ave., 303-443-1921
637 S. Broadway, 303-494-1274
Runner-up: Hapa Sushi
Honorable Mention: Cosmo's Pizza, Dark Horse Bar Keeping vampire hours but don't drink blood? Or maybe you've just got a hardcore case of munchies. Then grab a piece of New York-style pie from Abo's Pizza. The big, tasty slices will more than satisfy even the most ferocious appetite, whether you have fangs or not. If trendy is your late-night delight. Head to Hapa Sushi for your favorite sushi rolls, or try one the more edgy rolls that are a specialty here. With pizza, calzones, salads and breadsticks, Cosmo's Pizza earns an honorable this year, together with the Dark Horse, where beer, burgers and tasty curly fries reign.
NEW RESTAURANT
Reader & Staff Pick: V.G. Burgers
3267 28th St., 303-440-2400
Runner-up: Panera Bread
Honorable Mention: California Pizza Kitchen, 7 Eurobar You'd think that a fast-food joint winning Boulder's vote for Best New Restaurant would be a sign of the much ballyhooed Apocalypse. But what if that restaurant used only organic ingredients? And what if all those ingredients were made from vegetables and not animals? You'd have to back off a few notches on the Apocalyptometer. This year V.G. Burgers grabs top honors in a category often reserved for fine dining. Serving up fast food that health- and environment-conscious Boulderites can stomach, V.G. Burgers offers an array of burgers and dogs made of organic vegetable products, together with fries and shakes. If burgers aren't your thing, choose from one of the signature soups or chili. They say variety is the spice of life. So make sure you spend part of your life at Panera Bread, our runner-up in this category. Whether you are looking for fresh bakery items or a filling lunch, this is the place to be. Panera serves sandwiches, soups, salads and pizzas with flair. 7 Eurobar gives diners an elegant setting to indulge in an Asian fusion menu. From Beverly Hills to Boulder, The California Pizza Kitchen is now serving its Left Coast twist on the traditional pizza and other innovative pastas and salads to the Boulder market.
OVERALL RESTAURANT
Reader & Staff Pick: The Kitchen
1039 Pearl St., 303-544-5973
Runner-up: Frasca Food and Wine With recognition in the Appetizers/Tapas and Business Lunch categories, they're doing something right at The Kitchen. Maybe it's the upstairs wine lounge with its seasonal fare. Maybe it's the ever-changing dinner menu. Maybe it's the fresh ingredients. Maybe it's the service and the dedication to green business practices. Whatever it is, the combination of fresh food, good wine and an upbeat urban feel earns this neighborhood bistro top 2007 honors. Chefs/owners Kimbal Musk and Hugo Matheson and their staff have reason to celebrate. Frasca Food and Wine became a Boulder favorite the moment its doors opened. Serving food inspired by the culinary traditions of Italy's Friuli region, Frasca offers a seasonal menu made with organic ingredients, working whenever possible with local farmers. Chef Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson, one of Boulder's most recognized and award-winning chefs, has definitely found a way to showcase his talents.
MICROBREWERY
Reader & Staff Pick: Mountain Sun/Southern Sun Pub & Brewery
1535 Pearl St., Boulder, 303-546-0886
627 S. Broadway, 303-543-0886
Runner-up: Walnut Brewery Winning Best Microbrewery in Boulder is pretty much like taking home Best Picture at the Oscars. We don't know the exact numbers, but our diligent statisticians tell us there are approximately a bajillion microbreweries in Boulder. That's a lot. With all that competition, the Mountain Sun Brewery manages to keep ahead of the pack by producing dozens of popular standards and new favorites every year. They are so popular, in fact, that they opened up a new establishment in 2002. The Southern Sun is located on Table Mesa, right across the street from the Boulder Weekly—and if you come by at noon on Fridays, you can catch the B-dub staff throwing back pints at lunch. (Just kidding, Stewart. We usually wait until at least 2 before we start drinking.) The Walnut Brewery is part of the Rock Bottom Restaurants chain, which includes Old Chicago, Sing-Sing and Chophouse restaurants. And it's a favorite haunt for Boulderites who want to bend their elbows in a relaxed atmosphere. Located in the former City Electric building, right around the corner from the Pearl Street Mall, Walnut has a variety of traditional favorites, as well as original beers created by their brew master Rod Taylor. And if you don't have time to stop and chat, you can always grab a Growler to go for just $7.95.
SUSHI
Reader Pick: Sushi Zanmai
1221 Spruce St., 303-440-0733
Staff Pick: Japango
1136 Pearl St., 303-938-0330
Runner-up: Hapa Sushi
Honorable Mention: Sushi Tora Boulder County residents are serious about their sushi, and their appetite for sushi, sashimi and other treats from the sea supports a number of first-rate sushi restaurants. Sushi Zanmai tops our reader poll this year, scoring high on both food and fun. Watch chefs prepare original treats like their Colorado Roll (raw filet mignon), LSD (lettuce shrimp deluxe) or their Amigo Roll (baked fish with jalapeño) at the sushi bar or beside your table. Enjoy lunch specials and sushi happy-hour specials, and stay late for the Saturday night karaoke sing-along, hosted from 10 p.m. to midnight. B-dub staffers have a soft spot for Japango, which serves a mean platter of sushi in a fun, contemporary atmosphere. Try the lunch sashimi platter and feel the salmon and yellowtail melt on your tongue. Or sample one of their many Bento Box options. Or order ala carte off their sushi menu. Japango also offers a kids' menu for the little fish-eaters in your life. The in-crowd can be found at the ever-popular Hapa Sushi on any given night. With two locations in Boulder—one on Pearl Street and one on the Hill—Hapa offers a wide range of bowls, salads and sushi options, including rolls with names like Foreplay, Orgasm and Multiple Orgasm. And, yes, it was good for us. Thanks for asking. Earning honorable mention this year, Sushi Tora offers fresh, delicious food in a small and intimate setting. The Magic Mushrooms appetizer is a great start to the always-fresh entrée items that will keep you coming back for more.
VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY
Reader & Staff Pick: Sunflower
1701 Pearl St., 303-440-0220
Runner-up: Whole Foods
Honorable Mention: V.G. Burgers Sunflower takes vegetarian cuisine to new heights, combining concern for health and the environment with fine dining. The produce is certified organically grown, and the vegetarian dishes are prepared without any kind of animal product, making them suitable for vegans, too. And if your family includes carnivores, they can enjoy the seafood, free-range poultry and game meats, as well as the hormone- and antibiotic-free beef. From the deli to your regular grocery items, Whole Foods gives Boulderites an open marketplace to search for their vegetarian favorites. With its award-winning salad bar, olive bar, gourmet cheeses and top-notch produce section, Whole Foods is vegetarian nirvana. Newcomer V.G. Burgers offers a wide range of fast-food favorites—burgers, hot dogs, fries and shakes—without a single bit of meat on the menu.
SANDWICH
Reader & Staff Pick: Snarf's
2049 Pearl St., 303-444-7766
1087 14th St., 303-444-7714
5340 Arapahoe Ave., 303-444-3404
Runner-up: Salvaggio's Italian Deli
Honorable Mention: Deli Zone Snarf's is one aptly named sandwich shop. When you get there and your head fills with the aromas of toasting bread, spices, olive oil and fresh lunch meats—capicola, corned beef brisket, roasted turkey—that's exactly what you'll want to do. (And "Snarf's" just sounds better than "Pigout's" or "Face Stuffer's"). This is Snarf's second year at the top of the heap. With salads, soups, plentiful desserts and lots of vegetarian options, it's likely to remain a local favorite as long as its doors are open. A little Italian flair for your sandwich? Salvaggio's Italian Deli serves Boulder signature sandwiches with bread baked daily and freshly sliced meat. The hardest part of eating at Salvaggio's is making up your mind. You don't have to go to New York to get a sandwich that makes you feel like you are in the Big Apple. With names like "The Guiliani" and "Queens Blvd," the Deli Zone makes a sandwich that will have you coming back again and again and again. The sandwiches are just as flavorful as the names with a ton of fixings that will definitely satisfy your lunchtime cravings.
TAKE OUT
Reader & Staff Pick: Siamese Plate
3033 28th St., 303-444-3133
1575 Folsom St., 303-447-9718
Runner-up: China Gourmet, Jimmy & Drew's 28th Street Deli (tie)
Honorable Mention: Khow Thai You don't have to agree on what to eat if you want to get take-out with your work buddies. At Siamese Plate they have Japanese and Thai under one roof, ensuring that there's something for everyone. Diversity is obviously important to Boulderites, and with nearly 200 items on the menu, choice is what it's all about. For no-frills Chinese food and quick service, China Gourmet is tops. Tucked away in North Boulder, it offers hot, fresh food, ranging from traditional Chinese to more Americanized options. Tied for runner-up is Jimmy & Drew's 28th Street Deli, a recent addition to the Boulder area. Offering true Big Apple-style fare, most of which is made on site, this is an emerging favorite. Readers give local hot spot Khow Thai, with its award-winning Thai menu, an honorable mention. Don't forget to get a cup of that Thai iced tea to go.
THAI
Reader & Staff Pick: Khow Thai Café
1600 Broadway, 303-447-0273
Runner-up: Siamese Plate
Honorable Mention: Thai Basil, Chy Thai Khow Thai Café, which has topped this category five years running, has a little something for everybody. Vegetarians and carnivores alike can partake of their delicious curries and stir fries, and whether you like to walk on the mild side of Thai cuisine (the delightful Sweet & Sour Stir Fry with cucumber, tomato and pineapple) or prefer it spicy (the out-of-this-world Sriracha Noodle Stir Fry), Khow Thai has got a platter to fit your palate. No matter what you choose, all the entrees at Khow Thai taste better with a refreshing—and uplifting—glass of their Thai iced tea. Want to travel through Asia but can't afford the flight? Get a sampling of the continent's many culinary flavors at Siamese Plate, where you can enjoy Thai and Japanese cuisine as well as sushi. Siamese Plate also offers a wide selection of meats with its entrees, including duck and lobster. And with two locations in Boulder and one in Louisville, the Far East is never far away. Looking for old-world flavor with modern culinary flair? Try Thai Basil, which offers Asian fusion cuisine and was voted co-honorable mention. Chy Thai, the other honorable mention, is the new kid on the block, but has made an excellent first impression. Their Royal Curry is to die for, and their Thai iced tea is some of the best in the city. And for a unique dessert, try the Sweet Sticky Rice and Mango.
MARTINI
Reader & Staff Pick: Purple Martini
1710 29th St., #1C, 1-877-4VODKA-1, dial 33 for Boulder
Runner-up: Trilogy Wine Bar & Lounge Boulder. The word just smacks of earth-loving vegetarian hippies who eat granola and smell like goat cheese. We love it—that's why we live here. But sometimes you just want to escape Boulder's Polar fleece and Smartwool and go cosmopolitan. You could buy a plane ticket to New York, but you can also put on your chinos and drive (or bike, if you're concerned about the environment) to Purple Martini. Two steps in the door, and you'll forget all about granola. Purple Martini's décor is sophisticated, and its diverse clientele will make you forget you're in one of the most homogenous cities in the United States. Add a little Grey Goose Vodka, and you've got a passport to the world—or the state, depending on how large your wallet is. Runner-up Trilogy Wine Bar is a perennial martini favorite with B-dub readers. Just off Pearl Street, Trilogy offers great happy hour specials, as well as awesome drink names, such as "Chocolatini," "Sextini" and "Dancing Queen." If you're up for the ride of a lifetime, try all three drinks in rapid progression. We hear it's a great way to make new friends.
TEAHOUSE
Reader & Staff Pick: The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse
1770 13th St., 303-442-4993
Runner-up: Pekoe Sip House
Honorable Mention: Celestial Seasonings, Tea Spot No surprises in this category. The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse isn't just a teahouse, it's a work of art and a testament to the ability of people to reach across borders and political boundaries. The result of a sister-city exchange between Boulder and the former Soviet Union city of Dushanbe—now part of Tajikistan—the teahouse is the most colorful building in town, representing three years of painstaking work on the part of more than 40 woodcarvers, craftsmen and artisans from Dushanbe. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, in addition to Tea Time from 3 to 5 p.m. each day, the Teahouse offers a menu that combines flavors from around the world—a truly unique dining experience. And did we mention flavorful, exotic teas? Yes, they serve those, too, and in glorious abundance. A newcomer to Boulder, the Pekoe Sip House offers Boulder's tea connoisseurs more than 100 loose-leaf teas in addition to espresso, baked goods, sandwiches and tea accessories. It's a great place to enjoy a cup of tranquility on a busy day. The Tea Spot offers a small selection of blended loose-leaf teas and steeping accessories and shares honorable mention this year with homegrown favorite Celestial Seasonings.
VIETNAMESE
Reader & Staff Pick: Chez Thuy
2655 28th St., 303-442-1700
Runner-up: May Wah Longtime local fave Chez Thuy serves large portions at a moderate price, offering a menu of traditional Vietnamese dishes and American favorites that will leave your taste buds tingling. The crystal rolls are a great starter, but make sure you leave room for one of the many seafood entrees or vegetarian hot pots. The Vietnamese coffee is to die for. And if you have room after all of that, we recommend the fried banana. May Wah is this year's runner-up, serving both Vietnamese and Chinese fare in the Baseline Shopping Center.
WINE SELECTION
Reader & Staff Pick: Frasca Food & Wine
1738 Pearl St., 303-442-6966
Runner-up: The Flagstaff House
Honorable Mention: Trilogy Wine Bar & Lounge Italians have long been known for their love of fine wine, and Frasca Food & Wine shares that passion with its devoted public. The cellar at Frasca contains 200 varieties, focusing on the wines of the Friuli region of Italy and includes bottles from acclaimed vineyards and reserves from lesser-known regions and winemakers. Most Monday nights, this fine restaurant offers wine pairing nights with a featured wine makers, enabling wine lovers to sample different wines paired with the perfect meal. With one of the largest wine cellars in the state at more than 20,000 bottles, the Flagstaff House is known internationally for its award-winning wine list. You don't have to know a thing about wine to appreciate the expertise of the restaurant's wine buyer and sommelier. If wine is the gift of the gods, then the Flagstaff House is the gods' gift to Boulder. For the casual hip crowd that can be found wandering the streets in Boulder on any given night, the Trilogy Wine Bar & Lounge earns an honorable mention. Perhaps it is the endless glass happy hour that draws the crowd or the live music that can be heard while you enjoy your Pinot Grigio.
ITALIAN
Reader & Staff Pick: Laudisio Ristorante
1710 29th St. #1076, 303-442-1300
Runner-up: Carelli's
Honorable Mention: Dagabi Cucina The winds of change have blown through Boulder, converting the abandoned lot of Crossroads Mall into Twenty Ninth Street. In the process, Boulder's best Italian restaurant, Laudisio Ristorante Italiano, moved from its longtime North Boulder digs to the shiny open-air chic of the new mall and took a new name, L's. But what hasn't changed is the restaurant's world-class Italian fare and award-winning wine selection. Whether located in North Boulder or on the main drag of a hip new shopping center, L's will transport you and your taste buds to old Italy. Carelli's deserves to place in any Best of Boulder listing simply because of the great, unpretentious Italian fare its been serving up for more than a decade. But Carelli's gets bonus points for its most recent addition—a crêperia. The restaurant serves up crêpes both sweet and savory, and whichever your flavor—or if you've just come for the pasta—be sure and pair it with one of the restaurant's many fine wines. At Dagabi Cucina, this year's honorable mention, you can enjoy tapas for lighter fare, a martini menu for those warm summer nights, or take advantage of their fine Italian dinner offerings for a hearty meal. Back to top CULTURE, SPORTS & SCENE ADVANCED EDUCATION
Reader & Staff Pick: Naropa University
2130 Arapahoe Ave., 303-444-0202
Runner-up: CU Continuing Education
Honorable Mention: Front Range Community College, Boulder College of Massage Therapy The U.S. Census shows there are more people with college degrees and advanced college degrees in Boulder than in any other American city, making us the smartest (or at least the most educated) town in the nation. B-dub readers are some of the smartest people in Boulder, so they must be right when they say Naropa University is the best place to expand your horizons. Providing programs designed to develop mind, body and spirit, Naropa's Buddhist-based approach reveals the difference between simply learning stuff and truly raising your consciousness. Afraid you might stick out like a sore thumb among the droves of undergrads on the CU campus? Don't be! Receiving the runner-up, CU Continuing Education is the place to turn to feel right at home, whether you are hoping to learn a new hobby, looking for a personal enrichment course or deciding to finish up your B.A. after 10 years of raising kids. Front Range Community College offers a community college setting with doors open to all, and Boulder College of Massage Therapy helps its students put their compassion into action.
ALTERNATIVE HEALTH CARE
Reader & Staff Pick: Boulder College of Massage Therapy
6255 Longbow Dr., 303-530-2100
Runner-up: People's Clinic Thinking it's time to give your body the attention it needs? Whether you are stressed out from work or aching from your last climb up a 14-er, the Boulder College of Massage Therapy can get you back to your former cheerful self. Massage not only helps to relieve pain, it can improve circulation and boost your immune system. Consider either a Zen Shiatsu, Swedish, Normalization or Deep Tissue massage in one of the 12 serene treatment rooms. With prices under $50 for a massage from a highly trained student, treating your body won't hurt your pocket book. Don't feel like you can't get the health care you need because you might be strapped for cash? Boulder's lower-income residents and those without health insurance can lean on the People's Clinic when it comes to primary and preventative health services. Even though it's merging with Clinica Campesina, People's Clinic will continue to provide a truly Boulder approach to our nation's health-care crisis.
ART GALLERY
Reader & Staff Pick: Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art
1750 13th St., 303-443-2122
Runner-up: Art & Soul Gallery
Honorable Mention: Boulder Arts & Craft Gallery, The Dairy Center for the Arts Some of the greatest cultures in human history emphasized art as one of the highest of human pursuits. Sadly, our culture isn't one of them. But Boulder County residents don't have to feel deprived. There are lots of galleries throughout the county offering us opportunities to humanize ourselves. The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art is dedicated to the presentation of everything artistic and meaningful. Local, regional and even national and international artwork graces the walls of this longstanding Boulder institution. Local artists are given their chance to display their work on the Open Wall once a week, and don't miss the resident performance group, Theatre 13. Whose got soul? The Art & Soul Gallery, that's who. It is the infusion of soul into each piece that makes this a Boulder favorite. The showcase of fine art, sculpture, crafts and jewelry earns this Boulder gallery runner-up. The honorable mention winners in this category offer the public two distinct art experiences. The Boulder Arts & Crafts showcases the works of 42 artists that continually lure pedestrians in from the Pearl Street Mall. The Dairy Center for the Arts has a gallery and photo wall that continually showcase the work of up-and-coming artists. The Dairy Center also features a permanent space for varying art exhibits throughout the year.
CHIROPRACTOR
Reader & Staff Pick: The Joint
2525 Arapahoe Ave., Suite 2, 303-440-8019
Runner-up: Café of Life
Honorable Mention: Whole Body Balance Chiropractic isn't about just getting rid of that ache in your back. It's about improving your overall health and preventing dis-ease. The Joint offers chiropractic treatment, including $20 walk-in adjustments, for everyone in the family. With packages for corrective treatment and maintenance, as well as a family plan, The Joint can align your spine and help your body function more fully without putting your bank account out of whack. Another favorite among B-dub readers, Café of Life wants you to enjoy not just good health, but outrageously good health. Its practitioners focus on athletes, children and families. Whole Body Balance deserves an honorable mention for its therapeutic services that include not only chiropractic care, but also acupuncture and Rolfing.
CLASSICAL MUSIC
Reader & Staff Pick: Colorado Music Festival
900 Baseline Rd., Cottage 100, 303-449-1397
Runner-up: Boulder Philharmonic
Honorable Mention: Colorado Symphony Orchestra Every summer classical music lovers converge on Chautauqua Park to enjoy the Colorado Music Festival. Highlights from this summer's festival, taking place between June 23-Aug. 3, include world-renowned percussionist Collin Currie, the Colorado premiere of Osvaldo Golijov's flamenco opera Ainadamar, a chamber orchestra performance of Carl Orff's Carmina Burana. Renowned pianist Simon Trpceski and internationally acclaimed klezmer clarinetist David Krakauer will also perform. If anything tops the beauty of classical music in a historic mountain setting, we don't know what it is. Each season, Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra performs classical masterpieces and new compositions and features prominent guest artists, like Itzhak Perlman and Yo-Yo Ma. The BPO is also committed to educating children about the beauty of classical music through its Partners in Education program and its special Family Concert series. The Colorado Symphony Orchestra is the region's only full-time professional symphony orchestra, bringing classical music to the stage and to radio audiences across the state. Its 2006-2007 season concludes in June with a performance by Frank Sinatra, Jr.
DANCE COMPANIES
Reader & Staff Pick: Boulder Ballet
2590 Walnut St., 303-443-0028
Runner-up: Frequent Flyers
Honorable Mention: Lemon Sponge Cake Earning recognition in both the Live Dance Group and Dance Studio categories, Boulder Ballet has grown to become Boulder County's largest professional dance company and school. Performances are accompanied by music from the Boulder Philharmonic, including the annual holiday performance of The Nutcracker, a local tradition. Boulder Ballet performs at both historic Macky Auditorium and the Dairy Center for the Arts, but they can also be seen at many festivals and special events in the area. Runner-up Frequent Flyers dazzles audiences and defies gravity with aerial performances on a vertical stage—the trapeze. Lemon Sponge Cake tests the limits of classical technique with contemporary pointe moves, keeping the art of ballet fresh.
DANCE STUDIO
Reader & Staff Pick: Motion Underground
2691 30th St., 303-786-7660
Runner-up: Boulder Ballet
Honorable Mention: Ballet Nouveau, Alchemy of Movement Want to dip it, pop it, t'work it, stop it but don't have the faintest idea what that means? From hip hop to breaking to tap to jazz, Motion Underground has classes that will improve your moves, while giving you a top-notch workout. Individual classes are available, as are 10-punch cards. There are beginning classes for adults, too, so you don't have to worry about having some 9-year-old showing you up. It might be to late too realize your childhood dream of becoming a ballerina, but you can still learn how to do a plié. Runner-up Boulder Ballet offers classes for all ages and levels. Melding classical technique with innovative, modern moves, Ballet Nouveau earns an honorable mention for best dance studio. The other winner in this category, Alchemy of Movement, is sure to improve your grace and coordination, not to mention your fitness level, with its variety of unconventional dance classes.
DENTAL
Reader & Staff Pick: Boulder Smiles
1636 16th St., 303-443-4417
North Boulder Dental (tie)
2601 N Broadway, 303-447-1042
Runner-up: Family Dental Care, Tara Rathburn
Honorable Mention: Susan Takemoto Be honest now. When was the last time you went to the dentist? If it's been so long that you can't remember, then pay close attention. Boulder Smiles focuses on aesthetic and cosmetic dentistry, improving the appearance of your teeth. Check out the clinic's Smile Gallery for stunning before-and-after photos. North Boulder Dental is a full-service family practice clinic that offers everything from gentle care for tykes to full restorative service for adults who've never brushed their teeth. Runner-up, Dr. Tara Rathburn is centrally located on Broadway and provides services for the whole family. Susan Takemoto earns an honorable mention for keeping Boulderites smiling bright.
DAY SPA
Reader & Staff Pick: Essentiels Spa
2600 Canyon Blvd., 303-440-0711
Runner-up: St. Julien Hotel & Spa
Honorable Mention: Sensorielle, Gold Lake Mountain Resort and Spa There's nothing like a pedicure, massage or a facial to make the world seem right again. With the wide selection of day spas that offer everything from hair care to manicures to facials, Boulder County residents have no excuse for feeling stressed. Topping this year's list of local oases is Essentiels Spa. This ocean-themed spa offers a full range of hair and skin-care options, together with spa treatments. Slip away with an all-day package or simply stop in for a massage or a body detox in a thermal bed. With names like "Head to Toe Sensations" and "Day of Decadence" that evoke images of bliss, St. Julien earns the runner-up position. Sensorielle has packages to pamper everyone from the bride-to-be to new mothers to athletes in need of TLC. If you are up for a seaweed body wrap or aromatic steam bath, head to Ward to check out the Gold Lake Spa.
FESTIVAL
Reader & Staff Pick: Boulder Creek Festival
Runner-up: Boulder County Farmers Market A perennial winner in this category, the Boulder Creek Festival is an annual rite of passage from spring to summer. Memorial Day weekend transforms the Boulder Creek area into a spectacle. With carnival rides for the kids, the always-intriguing booths, food and live music at the Band Shell in Central Park, you'll keep yourself and your kids entertained all day. Oh, and don't forget to buy a rubber duck to cheer down the creek in hopes of being the first to cross the finish line. You can sink your teeth into the idea of eating only organic and locally grown fruits and veggies at Boulder County Farmers Market. Held in Central Park on Saturday from 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. and Wednesdays from 4-8 p.m. during the spring and summer, the Farmers Market offers locally grown fruits and vegetables, as well as gourmet cheeses, wines and tasty baked goods and meals prepared by local chefs.
FUNDRAISING EVENT
Reader & Staff Pick: KBCO Studio C
2500 Pearl St., Suite 315, 303-444-5600
Runner-up: Exotica Erotica
Honorable Mention: Chocolate Lovers' Fling Local and national artists alike give Boulderites a flavor of their live performances in KBCO Studio C to benefit the Boulder County Aids Project (BCAP). Hit names like Sarah McLachlan, Elvis Costello and Sheryl Crow have followed in the footsteps of Melissa Ethridge, who was the first to perform at KBCO Studio C. Music lovers have flocked to purchase the latest edition of each new CD for the past 18 years, demonstrating their support for BCAP's mission. The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMoCA) has been hosting a sensual and artsy ball for 15 years now to support museum programs. Sexy costumes are a must at Exotica Erotica, where you will be treated to great music, sensual videos and exotic photographs. Everyone loves chocolate, and there's no better reason to stuff your face with gourmet chocolate than to support the Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence at the annual Chocolate Lovers' Fling, this year's honorable mention. (Hint: Calories don't count when it's for a good cause.)
GOLF COURSE
Reader & Staff Pick: Flatirons Golf Course
5706 Arapahoe Ave., 303-442-7851
Runner-up: Haystack Mountain Golf Course
Honorable Mention: Indian Peaks Golf Course What do America's top executives of Fortune 500 and nearly every president of the U.S. have in common? An uncanny devotion to the game of golf. According to Raymond J. Keating who wrote Fore: Watch out for Governmental Golf!, the terminology on the golf course would serve as a perfect metaphor for the ups and downs for leaders of the free world and mega-corporations. Take for instance these common terms: birdies, bogies, eagles, hooks, slices, buried lies, the rough, traps and bunkers, the left-to-right fade, the right-to-left draw, the yips, the dreaded shank, and the gimmes. Boulder County might not host visiting government elites, but we do have a fine selection of golf courses for golf enthusiasts to choose from. Flatirons Golf Course maintains its place as the staff and reader favorite for yet another year. Flatirons Golf Course has been the premier public golf course in Boulder since the 1930s. Runner-up Haystack Mountain, a 9-hole course, is situated next to Left Hand Creek, which provides a serene backdrop. Just a short drive to Lafayette, and you are rewarded an 18-hole course at Indian Peaks, which naturally provides breathtaking views of the mountains for which it is named. After your game, check out the great food at the Peaks Bar & Grill.
HAIR SALON
Reader & Staff Pick: The Parlour
1037 Walnut St., 303-444-3747
Runner-up: Urban Pearl
Honorable Mention: On Broadway, Great Clips Everyone who has ever had hair knows that finding the perfect stylist can prove more challenging than finding a good lover. One of the 22 stylists at The Parlour's full-service salon is sure to be your perfect match, whether you are looking for a new cut or want to change your hair color. In fact, The Parlour gives such good trims that some of Boulder's pickiest lock lovers refuse to go anywhere else. This year's runner-up is about the art on your head, on your skin and in your mind. You can get a new 'do at Urban Pearl, and then get ink done at Rising Tide Tattoo, located in the back. You can even purchase a piece of the fine art displayed on the salon's walls. On Broadway is an Aveda salon that provides not only hair care, but a chance to pamper the rest of your body with massage, facials and waxing. The second honorable mention, Great Clips, is certainly your best choice when looking for an affordable, walk-in cut from a trained stylist.
INDOOR CLIMBING
Reader & Staff Pick: Boulder Rock Club
2829 Mapleton Ave., 303-447-2804
Runner-up: The Spot Bouldering Gym Need a place to hang? The Boulder Rock Club is the best and oldest indoor climbing gym in Boulder. The adult and youth classes give everyone a starting place and a way to improve their climbing. BCR also hosts other fun special events and birthday parties. The legendary route settings at the Boulder Rock Club, ranging from beginner quality to 5.14a, will get your adrenaline pumping and give you a great workout. The Spot Bouldering Gym is this year's runner-up for those wanting to get vertical. Enjoy one of the freestanding boulders that soar up to 18 feet high, or check out the 25-foot roped climbing wall. Renowned in the climbing world, The Spot gives bouldering junkies and rock jocks lots of ways to challenge themselves.
LASIK SURGERY
Reader & Staff Pick: Beyer Laser Center
1810 30th St., Suite B, 303-499-2020
Runner-up: Insight Lasik
Honorable Mention: Eyecare Center Dr. Craig Beyer of Beyer Laser Center has performed thousands of LASIK refractive surgeries and has been in the business longer than any other surgeon in Colorado. Anyone who has had this procedure done at Beyer Laser Center can tell you that this is the clear choice when it comes to LASIK surgery. The docs at InSight Lasik, this year's runner-up, will make sure that you're comfortable with your surgery before, during and afterward. Drs. Jimmy Jackson and Keith Miller will do a full screening beforehand. Their experience ensures that you'll get the outcome you desire. Dr. Dennis Dupuis of the Eyecare Center of Boulder specializes in both contact lenses and LASIK surgery.
LIVE DANCE GROUP
Reader & Staff Pick: Frequent Flyers Productions
2590 Walnut St., Suite 5, 303-245-8272
Runner-up: Boulder Ballet
Honorable Mention: Lemon Sponge Cake Contemporary Ballet Take a flying leap with Colorado's famous aerial dance-theatre company. Founded and directed by Nancy Smith, Frequent Flyers Productions has been awing audiences since 1988 with their flying trapeze and aerial stunts. They even performed for Cirque du Soleil in Montreal in 2005. Whether indoors or out, the flying apparatus and unique dance experience ensure a Frequent Flyer's performance will linger in your memory, earning it the distinction of best live dance group. If you really like what you see, check out the only international Dance Festival produced by the Frequent Flyers every August. For two weeks, the festival showcases classes, workshops, community activities and performances. Boulder Ballet will make you want to get up on your toes with its breathtaking performances created under the artistic direction of Ana Claire and Peter Davison. This distinguished ballet company has been providing Boulderites with stunning performances for a quarter century now. This summer they are offering free admission to "Sunday in the Park" performances as a thank you to the community for its support of dance. Ballet with pizzazz! If you like your ballet with a modern touch, the Lemon Sponge Cake Contemporary Ballet is right up your alley. A combination of contemporary pointe with modern movements paired with an array of music, the honorable mention in this category is sure to leave you feeling satisfied after a performance. Choreographer and artistic director, Robert Sher-Machherndl, aims to create a dance experience that is influenced by our times.
LIVE JAZZ
Reader & Staff Pick: Trilogy Wine Bar & Lounge
2017 13th St., 303-473-WINE
Runner-up: St. Julien Hotel & Spa
Honorable Mention: Redfish Fish House and Brewery The performance space in Trilogy Wine Bar & Lounge is the perfect venue for jazz music. It's dark, the acoustics are fantastic, and it's got that secretive, speak-easy atmosphere that makes you feel like you're hanging out in Prohibition Era Chicago. The only things they're missing are the tommy-gun wielding gangsters and the cloud of blue cigarette smoke that usually follow jazz musicians wherever they go. However, until scientists discover a method for transforming cig smoke into biodegradable prairie dog food, the smoking ban is probably not going to be lifted in Boulder. St. Julien has a brighter, cozier atmosphere for their jazz performances. Customers are invited to order a drink, relax and enjoy the music in an intimate setting. Few people know this, but Saint Julien is actually the patron saint of smokin' saxophone solos. It's true. But don't ask anyone from the Catholic Church about this; they'll just deny it. One fish, two fish, Redfish, blue fish. What? You didn't know Dr. Seuss was a fan of the Redfish? It's true. He used to hang out at the bar and listen to jazz and talk about Sneetches all the time. OK, OK, that's not technically true. But if the good Doctor ever came to Boulder, we're pretty sure that he'd enjoy jazz at the Redfish. It seems like his kind of place.
LIVE THEATRE
Reader & Staff Pick: Boulder Dinner Theatre
5501 Arapahoe Ave., 303-449-6000
Runner-up: Dairy Center for Performing Arts Dinner, drinks and dessert while taking in a Broadway musical... It doesn't get better than that. That is why the Boulder Dinner Theatre has again claimed the distinction of Best Live Theatre in Boulder. For more than two decades, the Boulder Dinner Theatre has brought singing, dancing and drama together with good food. Tables surround the stage, and meals are served by the cast, providing an intimate atmosphere—and a feast for all your senses, from the meal to the performance. From improv to theatre staples like Romeo and Juliet, the Dairy Center for Performing Arts provides Boulder a chance to experience a wide variety of theatrical performances, in addition to other art forms from dance to art installations.
LOCAL CELEBRITY
Reader & Staff Pick: Zip Code Man
Runner-up: Big Head Todd & the Monsters
Honorable Mention: Hazel Miller Who really cares about a man who can guess a zip code just by hearing the name of a city? Boulder Weekly readers, that's who. They have voted the Zip Code Man the best local celebrity many times. Look for him next time you are cruising the Pearl Street Mall. He may be disguised as a juggler, but don't be fooled because that isn't his only talent. Big Head Todd and The Monsters might be famous, but they haven't turned their backs on the locals. They still do shows at local venues like the Fox, KBCO Studio C and Red Rocks. Honorable mention Hazel Miller and her sultry voice continue to draw crowds along the Front Range.
LOCAL MUSICIAN
Reader & Staff Pick: Big Head Todd and the Monsters
Runner-up: Hazel Miller, Devotchka (tie) Big Head Todd and the Monsters have been filling local venues since the early 1990s. With a bluesy sound that feels like Boulder, Big Head Todd pack Red Rocks for a special summer concert every year. Runner-up Hazel Miller has been treating audiences in Colorado to her vocal talents for nearly two decades. For a listen with a more edgy feel, Devotchka is truly an auditory treat. Blends of indie, jazz, folk and a host of other musical influences offer a sound that's unlike anything you've experienced before.
MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO
Reader & Staff Pick: Easton Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
1750 30th St., Unit 22, 303-938-1275
Runner-up: Boulder Quest Center
Honorable Mention: Way of the Crane "You have failed no one Grasshopper, only your own ambition." How awesome was the original Kung-Fu movie? Answer: Pretty damn awesome! Building your self-awareness while learning moves that give you the ability to protect yourself and others is the beauty of martial arts. And that's what they're offering at Easton Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. With beginning, intermediate and advanced classes for both children and adults, they have opportunities for all skill levels. You will learn lessons about self-respect and fairness in addition to practicing moves that will tone your body and prepare your mind. Boulder Quest Center, this year's runner-up, draws on ancient methods you can use in the modern world in their To-Shin Martial Arts and Blue Lotus Assembly Meditation Programs, where you'll empower yourself by learning how to deal with conflict. Training body, mind and spirit by enhancing self-defense abilities and learning to transcend the need to use violence is the aim of Way of the Crane.
MASSAGE
Reader & Staff Pick: Boulder College of Massage Therapy
6255 Longbow Dr., 303-530-2100
Runner-up: MassageSpecialists.com There are few things in this world that are pure. Kittens, rainbows, unicorns—OK, so maybe there are a few things. But, as anyone who's worked for 40 hours behind a desk can tell you, getting a good massage is about as close as you can get to pure bliss. We know, we know. In Boulder, there are about as many massage therapists as there are Subarus. That's why Boulder College of Massage Therapy is a sure bet for getting the best massage. Those on a budget will benefit from a visit to the student clinic, which offers reduced rates and serves as a practicing ground for Boulder's future Subaru-driving, muscle-kneading massage therapists. Coming in at a close second place is Massagespecialsts.com, which offers same-day appointments and a casual, relaxed atmosphere. Boulder's elite athletes and weekend warriors rave about the center's top-notch sports therapists, who are knowledgeable and friendly. Those in Denver can take advantage of Massagespecialists' new center at 70 Broadway.
MEDICAL FACILITY
Reader & Staff Pick: Boulder Community Hospital
1100 Balsam Ave., 303-440-2273
311 Mapleton Ave., 303-440-2273
4747 Arapahoe Ave., 720-854-7000
Runner-up: Boulder Medical Center Whether you're experiencing a personal baby boom or recovering from an attempt to test gravity, Boulder Community Hospital (BCH) provides well-trained doctors and nurses to assist you and your family. With three campuses in Boulder that provide specialty services and a remote campus in Lafayette, BCH is within your reach. The main location is best known for its cardiology and neurology services, but it also has an emergency department and intensive-care unit. The Mapleton facility provides behavioral health services, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation for brain injuries, chronic pain and pediatric rehabilitation, a sleep disorders clinic and sports medicine. The Foothills Hospital provides mainly maternity and pediatric care, along with emergency, intensive-care and surgery departments. The facility is also a "green" facility and was the first hospital in the U.S. to earn LEED certification for its high-performance, sustainable design. Runner-up Boulder Medical Center also has three convenient locations where their doctors and nurses provide comprehensive, multi-specialty care.
MOVIE HOUSE
Reader & Staff Pick: Boulder Theater
2032 14th St., 303-786-7030
Runner-up: AMC Flatiron Crossing
Honorable Mention: Landmark Crossroads Three words: movies and alcohol. You haven't really seen The Big Lebowski until you've watched it surrounded by 200 disheveled Boulderites dressed in ratty bathrobes who are sucking down Caucasians faster than a pack of alcoholic Russians. "The Dude abides, man." The Boulder Theater is not a heartless, corporate movie house. It's more of a family atmosphere—if your family happens to own a giant movie screen, a kick-ass sound system and a full bar. Going to the movies shouldn't be just something you do because you're bored on Saturday night—it should be an event. The Boulder Theater brings the magic back to the movie house. If you like options, the AMC Flatiron Crossing is the theater for you. With 13 screens to choose from, your movie choices are virtually unlimited. (Actually, that's not true; they're limited to 13.) This state-of-the-art facility is located in Broomfield, and it has all the amenities for your cinematic experience, including drinks, movies, video games and large, cardboard cutouts of your favorite movie stars in the lobby. Landmark Crossroads is one of the last remaining multiplexes in Boulder. Located on 30th Street, right next to the Barnes & Noble, Landmark has a modern facility with a friendly, local atmosphere. You'll find a full concession stand in the lobby and plenty of your favorite flicks to choose from.
MUSEUM
Reader & Staff Pick: Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art
1750 13th St., 303-443-2122
Runner-up: Leanin' Tree
Honorable Mention: Boulder History Museum Earning both Best Museum and Best Art Gallery, the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art proves that Boulder truly is an artsy place. Providing a showcase for both local and national artists since the 1970s, this arts facility provides not only great exhibits, but also compelling live theater and gallery shows. It's a museum and performing arts space rolled into one funky package. Greeting-card-inspired art? That is what you will get at the Leanin' Tree. After selling greeting cards with a distinctive western feel, the founder of this card company, Ed Trumble, began collecting works from the greeting-card artists and displaying them. The collection now has a catalogue of nearly 100 Western artists. Tucked amid the beautiful homes that populate The Hill is a treasure that displays artifacts unique to the Boulder area and rotating exhibits about Boulder's history. The Boulder History Museum earns an honorable for its commitment to telling the history of our unique (i.e., weird) city.
MUSIC FESTIVAL
Reader & Staff Pick: Telluride Bluegrass Festival
Telluride, Colorado, 303-823-0848
Runner-up: Colorado Music Festival Honorable Mention: RockyGrass Every summer, bluegrass junkies flock to the Telluride Bluegrass Festival for a week of great music at altitude. The event features favorite performers like Emmylou Harris, Alison Kraus and Bela Fleck and the Flecktones. With great music, a beautiful setting and a culture all its own, the Telluride Bluegrass festival has been drawing crowds for 34 years. Performers range from the new on the scene to those who have been favorites for years. Get ready to pack up your tents and head for the hills for the best music festival of the year. The Colorado Music Festival draws classical music lovers to Chautauqua Park every summer. This summer the festival will feature world-renowned percussionist Colin Currie, pianist Simon Trpceski and clarinetist David Krakauer. Yet another chance for bluegrass lovers, the RockyGrass Festival offers some cool time off from the heat of summer with three days of great music on the banks of the St. Vrain River near Lyons. This summer, look for Nickel Creek, David Grisman and Del McCoury and so many others.
MUSIC VENUE
Reader & Staff Pick: Red Rocks Amphitheatre
18300 W. Alameda Pkwy., Morrison, 720-865-2494
Runner-up: Boulder Theater
Honorable Mention: The Fox Theatre, Chautauqua Auditorium It's difficult to top an ampitheatre created by Mother Nature. This geological wonder is a unique phenomenon that will never be replicated anywhere else in the world. The large sandstone boulders surrounding the mountainous area have created a perfect acoustical/aesthetic venue. Since it's completion in 1947, Red Rocks Ampitheatre has been host to thousands of world-famous artists from the Beatles to the Killers. Pollster Magazine awarded Red Rocks best small outdoor venue 11 times in a row before finally giving up and designating the category the Red Rocks Award. The Boulder Theater has been putting on musical performances since it was first opened under the name of the Curran Opera House in 1906. Today, the Boulder Theater is one of the best small music venues in the country, and its shows range from mellow reggae and bluegrass to eardrum-shattering rock. There's no such thing as a bad concert at the Boulder Theater; the place is just too damn cool. After 15 years of hard work, the operators of the Fox Theatre have managed to make it a local institution. There's no doubt when you hit the Fox that you're going to see a killer show. The Fox brings in some of the best musicians in the country. What would Boulder be without Chautauqua? A beautiful, serene venue, this historical spot exemplifies all that is special about our city.
NONPROFIT
Reader & Staff Pick: Humane Society of Boulder Valley
2323 55th St., 303-442-4030
Runner-up: Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence
Honorable Mention: EcoCycle Boulder County residents love their furry friends, and the Humane Society provides an array of services for pets and strays. Dedicated to finding good homes for all of the creatures who come under their care, the friendly animal lovers at the Humane Society will help you make the right decision about pet adoption and help you as a new pet guardian to provide your critter with the best of care. What initially began as a resource to provide safety and support for victims of domestic violence expanded into a mission to end other forms of social injustice that affect the lives of women. This has earned the Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence a place in the hearts of Boulder Weekly readers, who recognize the need for community involvement to address the violence that impacts women and children. Keeping Boulder's junk out of the landfill is EcoCycle's goal. Focused on achieving a zero-waste community, EcoCycle is always exploring ways of reducing, reusing and recycling the materials we cast aside.
PERFORMANCE ARTS VENUE
Reader & Staff Pick: Dairy Center for Performing Arts
2590 Walnut St., Suite 5, 303-440-7826
Runner-up: Boulder Theater
Honorable Mention: Macky Auditorium From dance to theatre, music, film and spoken word, the massive space at the Dairy Center for Performing Arts has something for everyone to enjoy. If you haven't been to the Dairy Center lately, it is time to check out one the exceptional performances, art exhibits, dance concerts or installations hosted there. A movie and a margarita? A play and a piña colada? A concert and a Cosmo? The Boulder Theater offers great music, recently released movies, and other performances in a small, intimate setting. And it has a full-service bar. How can you beat that? Many of the Boulder's best perform at Macky Auditorium on the University of Colorado campus, including the Boulder Ballet. With the rich décor and stately setting, the Macky Auditorium lends an Old World feel to your theatre experience.
PLACE OF WORSHIP
Reader & Staff Pick: Outside/Mountains
Runner-up: Shambhala Center
Honorable Mention: Unity of Boulder There's nothing more special about Boulder than its mountains. When it comes to communing with the Divine, Boulder residents prefer the mountains over a brick-and-mortar church. With their staggering beauty, our Mountain Parks lift both mind and spirit, offering respite from the real world—if Boulder can be called the real world—and a way to cleanse the soul. But take care of them. You wouldn't throw your trash on the floor of a cathedral, so don't litter here. The Shambhala Center offers daily meditation and welcomes the community to partake in instructional sessions on meditation and Buddhist teachings. One of the fastest growing religions in the world, Buddhism has made its mark on Boulder. Unity of Boulder earns an honorable mention for its weekly services, inspiring speakers, concerts and community events.
PLACE TO DANCE
Reader & Staff Pick: Trilogy Wine Bar & Lounge
2017 13th St., 303-473-WINE
Runner-up: Fox Theatre
Honorable Mention: Boulder Theater The disco days are gone—thank God! But people still love to dance, and in Boulder County, they love to dance at Trilogy Wine Bar & Lounge. With the host of musical talents that perform there each week, Trilogy offers people a chance to enjoy a good glass of wine, a good meal and a chance to shake their groove thang. From noodle dancing to belly dancing to whatever you call that thing you were doing, the dance floor at the Fox Theatre has seen it all. The Fox brings in a wide variety of bands, offering everyone from the hip-hop lover to the hipster a chance to show their style. The Boulder Theater is another hot dance spot, with concerts and performances that include every musical taste.
PLACE TO SWIM
Reader & Staff Pick: Boulder Recreation Center
East Boulder Community Center
5660 Sioux Dr., 303-441-4400
North Boulder Community Center
3170 Broadway, 303-413-7260
South Boulder Community Center
1360 Gillaspie, 303-441-3448
Runner-up: Boulder Creek Goggles? Check. Swimsuit? Check. Flip-flops?... Uh-oh. Forgetting your flip-flops and having to walk barefoot to the swimming pool is the walk of death. You may get to swim, but who knows what foot diseases you'll contract in the process. Fortunately, if you're at one of the Boulder Recreational Centers you have nothing to worry about. Boulder Rec Centers' pools are clean and well chlorinated. There are no gross Band-Aids floating at the bottom of the pool—or at the top for that matter. And while the lifeguards may be exponentially younger than you, they're also super-friendly. While runner-up Boulder Creek isn't the best place to do laps—it's probably the worst—it is good for some summertime tubin'. Strap on your water wings, and pump up your innertube for some good, clean fun.
PLACE TO WORKOUT
Reader & Staff Pick: Boulder Recreation Center
East Boulder Community Center
5660 Sioux Dr., 303-441-4400
North Boulder Community Center
3170 Broadway, 303-413-7260
South Boulder Community Center
1360 Gillaspie, 303-441-3448
Runner-up: YMCA of Boulder Valley, Mapleton Center
Honorable Mention: Flatiron Athletic Club Let's face it, Boulder is where the beautiful people live. While they may be affluent, Boulderites don't do the country club. Then where do Boulderites go to see and be seen, you may ask? The gym! Ah, yes, in Boulder your workout outfit is just as important, if not more important, than what you wear for the rest of the day. Well, if you're cruising for chicks or dudes it is. Reader and staff pick Boulder Recreation Center has top-notch workout facilities. The machines are new and clean, and its centers offer a plethora of classes—except maybe basket weaving, and | 
