It was love at first bite when I gave in to the irresistible cinnamon sticky buns at the recently opened Maddie’s Neighborhood Restaurant on South Downing. Warm, yeasty swirls arrive topped with toasted pecans, cinnamon, and brown sugar. The kicker: a sweet cream butter that melts through each fold of dough.

Extra care seems to go into every bite at Gayor Geller’s cheery breakfast and lunchtime spot. One such dish is the challah French toast (pictured) that’s been nicely soaked before it hits the griddle. The result is a breakfast that sings with custardy egg, vanilla, and brown sugar. Crème anglaise, whipped cream, fresh berries, and your choice of meat (don't miss the house-made turkey sausage) round out the plate.

Sip this: Maddie’s House Bloody Mary—made with Hangar One vodka and Colorado’s own Motherlode Provisions—comes garnished with thick-cut bacon, olives, and a slice of lemon.

2423 S. Downing St., 720-389-8068