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Former Food Editor

Denise Mickelsen

Former Food Editor

Denise Mickelsen is 5280’s former food editor. She oversaw all of 5280’s food-related coverage from October 2016 to March 2021.

Articles By Denise Mickelsen

Where to Find Denver’s Best Italian Food

Pasta, pizza, and parm, oh my! These are our 25 favorite Italian restaurants in (and around) the Mile High City.

The 983 Big Cheesy at Cherry Cricket.

The Best Burgers in Denver and Beyond

Check out our updated list of favorite restaurants serving crave-worthy renditions of the bun-and-protein combo, including 15 new additions.

Mawa McQueen sits at a bench in front of a yellow wall at Mawita.

A Comprehensive List of the Women Leading the Front Range Culinary Scene

If you want to support female-led food and beverage businesses in Colorado, this is a good place to start.

The Definitive Guide to Brunching in Denver and Beyond

Give your Saturday or Sunday funday the delicious start it deserves.

Enjoy International Brunch at These 7 Local Restaurants and Bakeries

Tired of American-style eats? Explore a more global side of breakfast and brunch at these Denver area spots serving fare from China, Armenia, and other countries.

A Running List of Restaurants and Bars Closed in the Denver Metro Area

Four-decade-old Annie’s Cafe and TikTok-famous Domo are among the recent casualties to the long-lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s a living list of closures—both permanent and temporary.

Tavernetta alpenglobes

The 11 Best Outdoor Dining Setups in Denver and Beyond

Feeling safer outside because of the latest coronavirus variant? Here are a few of our favorite spots for al fresco meals in and around the Mile High City.

Reasons to Love Denver 2021: Local Eats, Old and New

From the old haunts that held us together to the new, pandemic-born concepts that have us hooked, Denverites have some delicious options for eating our feelings.

Dessert Takes Many Forms at Miette et Chocolat’s Aurora Outpost

The shop and gallery on East Colfax Avenue sells confections, pastries, and edible artwork by Argentine chocolatier Gonzalo Jimenez.

A Culinary Partnership Blossoms at the Ginger Pig

Chefs Natascha Hess and Carrie Baird are cooking playful, Asian-inspired fare in Sunnyside.

5280’s Food Editor Says Goodbye

Since 2016, Denise Mickelsen has nibbled and sipped nonstop to share the stories of the culinary talents who call Colorado home.

A First Look At WingWok, A Korean Fried Chicken Chain Opening in Centennial

It’s takeout and delivery only for the new fast-casual brand, which is scheduled to debut its first store in late spring.

Longtime Colorado Chef Expands From Food Truck to Retail Line

Orlando Benavidez of Bits & Pieces con Cerveza wants to deliver fresh corn tortillas and spice blends straight to your door.

Redeemer Pizza Takes Over the Meadowlark Kitchen Space On Larimer Street

The full-service New York-style pizza joint from chefs Spencer White and Alex Figura will include sourdough pies, hoagies, and wine on tap.

Talnua Distillery Turns Two With Big Plans For the Future

The Arvada-based company is the country’s only dedicated single pot still spirits producer, and is celebrating its anniversary with new copper stills and a delicious three-year-old whiskey.

Forget Me Not Cocktail Lounge Makes Its Debut In Cherry Creek

Culinary Creative’s Nicole Lebedevitch is pouring exquisite cocktails and chef Max MacKissock is preparing impeccable snacks, so make your reservations now.

Open Brings Killer Sandwiches to American Bonded in RiNo

Denver hospitality pro Jake Riederer tapped culinary royalty for recipes and is giving a dollar from every sale to Project Angel Heart.

Green Russell and Nomad Bar Alums Open the L Denver

The laid-back new spot on Broadway will satisfy every kind of drinker.

The Wild Is a New Day-to-Night Oasis Across from Union Station

The beautiful bar from the team behind Hudson Hill and Lady Jane is intended to be a space of calm and connection in downtown Denver.

How 3 Local Culinary Companies Are Giving Back

Satisfy your appetite—and support charitable causes—by purchasing greens, pasta, and sweets from these makers.

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