Home run…Baseball season is here with hot dogs, cold beer, and…veggie burritos. PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) just named Coors Field one of the country’s top 10 vegetarian-friendly ballparks. Next time you’re at the park, check out the offerings: veggie burger, veggie burrito, veggie wrap, and panini sandwiches with mushrooms and roasted red bell peppers.

Top tastes…The 15th annual Taste of Vail kicks off today, Wednesday, with the 3:30 p.m. Colorado lamb cook-off in the Vail Village. From April 6-8, sip wine from more than 50 vinters, nibble on fare from the Vail Valley’s restaurants, and get your epicurean on with enlightening seminars. Among others, we’ve got our eye on the sweet-sounding chocolate seminar (Friday from 4-5 p.m.) with John Scharffenberger of Scharffen Berger Chocolates. And don’t forget about all the spring snow just waiting to be skied—you’ve gotta do something to burn off the calories. Tickets, which range from $20 to $375, are still available but they’re going fast. 1-888-311-5665, www.tasteofvail.com.

Sneak peak…We’re anxious to try Nine 75 (the soon-to-open restaurant in the old Moda spot). Especially after catching an early look at chef Troy Guard‘s New American menu. Expect comfy eats: ceviche shooters, “the works” potato skins, mac ’n’ cheese, and cotton candy. Word is the place opens for dinner on May 13. 975 Lincoln St.

A piece of the pie…Bene Gourmet Pizza, an Oregon-based chain, officially opened its doors on Monday. The restaurant, located at the intersection of Arapahoe Road and I-25, offers 22 gourmet pizzas, all made with a semolina crust sweetened with organic clover honey. Through April 10, bring in two nonperishable food items (or $2) and receive a free Caesar salad. Donations will go to the Food Bank of the Rockies. 8547 E. Arapahoe Road, Greenwood Village, 720-200-9222, www.benegourmet.com.

Amanda M. Faison
Amanda M. Faison
Freelance writer Amanda M. Faison spent 20 years at 5280 Magazine, 12 of those as Food Editor.