DINING

Wine List

EDITORS Table 6

We appreciate that Aaron Forman, owner and sommelier of Table 6, supports small, family-oriented wineries. But we like his wine list philosophy—keep it fun and unpretentious—even better. To wit: Forman combats the usually snooty reserve list by taking pictures of wine labels and placing them in a photo album that's brought to the table on request. "I think people are very visual and sometimes a little shy about pronouncing the names of wine," he says. Kudos to that. 609 Corona St., 303-831-8800, www.table6denver.com

Ice Cream

EDITORS Gelazzi Gelato Italiano Café

We find it impossible to walk through Larimer Square without a visit to Gelazzi for a cup of pure heaven (cinnamon-sprinkled tiramisù and smooth hazelnut, anyone?). This Italian gelateria whips up a fresh array of tempting flavors every morning with milk instead of cream—meaning far less fat and fewer calories than regular ice cream...sweet! The owners visit Italy several times a year to bring back authentic ingredients, and they've created a decadent "gelatini" menu (gelato and liqueur) worth indulging in, too—happy hour is 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays. 1411 Larimer St., 303-534-5056, www.gelazzi.com

READERS Bonnie Brae Ice Cream
If the shop is open there's a line, and it usually stretches down the sidewalk. This neighborhood haunt is everything an ice cream spot should be—genuine, cheery, and full of homemade deliciousness in flavors like malted milk ball and deep-dish apple pie. We even heard that they once hosted a free-for-all ice cream giveaway during a power outage, so keep your fingers crossed. 799 S. University Blvd., 303-777-0808, www.bonniebraeicecream.com

Steak

EDITORS Elway's
Over the past three years, Elway's has emerged as the best steak house in Denver. The service is excellent, the side dishes and desserts are heavenly (particularly the tuna tartare with guacamole, and the warm chocolate soufflé), but it's the steak that stands out. Elway's porterhouse, lightly dashed with the restaurant's homemade seasonings, is the best steak we've eaten—ever. Juicy, flavorful, delicious. And now, with a second location (in the Ritz downtown, no less), there's double the goodness. Note: The menus at each location vary. 2500 E. First Ave., 303-399-5353; 1881 Curtis St., 303-321-3107, www.elways.com

READERS Tie: the Capital Grille and Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steak House
Both the Cap Grille and Del Frisco's know the key to winning the hearts (and stomachs) of red-meat-loving Coloradans: impeccable service and excellent, savory cuts of steak. The Capital Grille: 1450 Larimer St., 303-539-2500, www.thecapitalgrille.com; Del Frisco's: 8100 E. Orchard Road, Greenwood Village, 303-796-0100, www.delfriscos.com

Pizza

EDITORS Parisi
Parisi has pulled off a neat trick: serving high-end, delicious pizza in a casual atmosphere without seeming coy or contrived. The wood oven-baked pies are uniformly excellent—even when you take them home—with crispy, thin crusts and fresh ingredients that will whisk you off to Tuscany during even the snowiest of winter nights. We love the simplicity of the margherita, with sliced tomatoes and fresh basil; for heartier fare, you can't go wrong with the "salsiccia & funghi," better known in these parts as Italian sausage and mushroom. 4401 Tennyson St., 303-561-0234, www.parisidenver.com

READERS Proto's Pizzeria Napoletana
Since Pam Proto and her business partner Rayme Rossello first opened shop nine years ago in Longmont, they have been serving up some of the best, most authentic Neapolitan pizzas along the Front Range. At our favorite Proto's in the Confluence Park area, while away a warm summer evening at one of the sidewalk tables with a bottle of wine and the fantastic Pontiff Pie, topped with olive oil, garlic, fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella, and feta cheese. Multiple locations, www.protospizza.com

Diner

EDITORS Rocky Mountain Diner
What other true diner—in that neon-signage, pleather barstool kinda way—serves up a roast duck enchilada plate and a sheepherder salad with goat cheese crostini? (Both delicious, by the way.) Of course, we also love RMD's traditional staples, like homemade biscuits and chicken-fried steak, which are prepared on the mark. It's pretty much a madhouse during lunch, so prepare to wait your turn. In the meantime, check out the giant retro jukebox as you ponder the daily blue-plate special on the chalkboard. 800 18th St., 303-293-8383, www.rockymountaindiner.com

READERS Steuben's
With good ol' mac 'n' cheese and sides like hushpuppies, plus the Tuesday-night meatloaf special, Steuben's certainly cleans up in the comfort-food category. But even better are the retro-fab 1950s decor, the knowledgeable and honest servers, and the pleasantly eclectic menu surprises. (Think habanero honey-fried corn on the cob.) It's a gastronome's version of the greasy spoon. 523 E. 17th Ave., 303-830-1001, www.steubens.com

READERS Tie: Barolo Grill and Crú: A Wine Bar
While readers covet Barolo Grill's venerable wine list for its depth and precision, they also enjoy sipping on Crú's flights and wines by the glass. Either way, we say bottoms up. Barolo Grill: 3030 E. Sixth Ave., 303-393-1040, www.barologrilldenver.com; Crú: 1442 Larimer St., 303-893-9463, www.cruawinebar.com

Italian

EDITORS Osteria Marco
With Osteria Marco, a polished Italian tavern on Larimer Square, chef Frank Bonanno has shown us that he can pull off low-key eats as well as he does fine dining. His restaurant hits all the notes with a simple menu of artisanal cheeses and meats, fresh salads, traditional pizzas, and stacked panini, plus an affordable, all-Italian wine list. Our perfect meal: the chefs' assortments of meats and cheeses, a lemony arugula salad, and the show-stopping carbonara pizza. 1453 Larimer St., 303-534-5855, www.osteriamarco.com

READERS Pasta's Italian Restaurant
Our readers adore this family-friendly Littleton spot owned by Chris and Holly Stoleson. Stop in for the baked cavatappi, a jam-packed meatball sammy, bubbling pizza, or the spicy mussels alla diavola, and you won't go home hungry. Nor will you break the bank. 9126 W. Bowles Ave., Littleton, 303-933-2829, www.pastasitalian.com

Mexican

EDITORS Santiago's Mexican Restaurant
With green chile so spicy it sets your mouth on fire, Santiago's is for diners with a serious—and seriously robust—palate. If you're daring, try the chicken and carnitas (marinated pork) burrito, smothered in the hot stuff. The tacos, which are equally delicious, are a notch down on the spiciness scale. Bonus: The locally owned, fast-casual chain boasts 20 locations, so you're never too far away from the next delicious dinner. Multiple locations, www.eatatsantiagos.com

READERS Benny's Restaurante y Tequila Bar
Year after year, this Denver staple receives accolades for its sweet-tart margaritas, salty chips, and sour cream-laden burritos. Don't miss dining on the year-round, indoor patio. With a margarita in hand, it's an easy place to while away several hours. 301 E. Seventh Ave., 303-894-0788, www.bennysrestaurant.com

Barbecue

EDITORS Jim 'n Nick's Bar-B-Q
Seems like every time you turn around there's a new 'cue joint—and a few of them are even pretty good. But none of them combines tender, succulent meat with spot-on sides like Jim 'n Nick's. OK, yes, it's a chain. But who cares when the pork tastes this good? We recommend ordering either a pulled pork plate with collard greens and baked beans or the beef brisket with mac 'n' cheese and mashed potatoes. Oh, and don't forget some of that perfectly blended sweet tea to wash it all down. 8264 E. 49th Ave., 303-371-1566; 24153 E. Prospect Ave., Aurora, 720-274-5300, www.jimnnicks.com

READERS Brothers BBQ
With its eighth location opening in March, this perennial Top of the Town winner has the barbecue market cornered here in the Mile-High City. And it's little wonder folks love this little-restaurant-that-could. Started in a refurbished garage at the intersection of Leetsdale and Monaco in 1998, Brothers has always offered top-shelf comfort food like seasoned ribs, smoked pork, and hearty beef brisket. Multiple locations; www.brothers-bbq.com

Chinese

EDITORS Chopsticks China Bistro
For three years, we've driven right past this nondescript Chinese restaurant on the corner of Federal and Mississippi. Never again. Not after we've tried the juicy pork steamed dumplings, tender eggplant with basil, and fluffy white rice. Now we'll be dropping by every time we want an adventurous Chinese dinner, with a hint of American familiarity. 2990 W. Mississippi Ave., 303-936-1506

READERS Little Ollie's
Sesame chicken is to Chinese restaurants what burgers are to diners—the telltale choice. Little Ollie's crispy, sweet sesame chicken outshines the soggy dishes at other restaurants. 2364 E. Third Ave., 303-316-8888, www.ufeedme.com/littleollies

Thai

EDITORS Chada Thai
Step off 17th Avenue into this quiet Thai cafe and time slows down. Here, diners linger over fresh and unpretentious meals, remembering that the best way to try foreign food is when it's home-cooked. Chada's authentic spicy zucchini, eggplant, and chicken Thai curry combines fresh vegetables and creamy coconut milk in a tasty but humble way. 2005 E. 17th Ave., 303-320-8582

READERS Thai Basil
As this ever-growing local chain spreads throughout the state (the newest location is in Colorado Springs), more and more Front Range diners couldn't imagine going anywhere else for fresh mint and cucumber spring rolls, Thai iced tea, or savory curried chicken in peanut sauce. Multiple locations, www.thaibasil.us

Indian

EDITORS Masalaa
The moment you cross the threshold of this southern Indian restaurant, you'll forever kiss those tepid, mealy buffets good-bye. Masalaa's all-vegetarian spread is warm, authentic, and full of dynamic flavors. Mashed potatoes fill buttery crêpelike dosas, and carrots harmoniously combine with cauliflower and lentils in the mixed vegetable korma. 3140 S. Parker Road., 303-755-6272, www.masalaausa.com

READERS Little India
There's nothing quite like scooping up tender bites of chicken tikka masala with warm naan flatbread. These staples—made in a clay tandoor oven—have come to represent the classics of India, and Little India has them down to a science. Multiple locations, www.littleindiadenver.com

Sushi

EDITORS Sushi Tora
Boulder's Sushi Tora may not have the high gloss of Sushi Den—but that's no matter when you're focusing on a silky cut of toro and the gorgeous No. 9 roll, with delicate shrimp tempura, salmon, and avocado. Hint: If you're dining on the weekend, make sure you have a rezzie—Boulderites love their sushi, and Tora is their crown jewel. 2014 10th St., Boulder, 303-444-2280, www.sushitora.net

READERS Sushi Den
Who can argue with Sushi Den's unbelievably fresh fish offerings? For that, we give thanks to the owners' youngest brother, who makes weekly trips to the fish market back in Japan. The quality makes it worth holding out for a seat at the sushi bar, so as not to miss the chefs preparing the ever-fresh nigiri or the fiery New Style sashimi appetizer. 1487 S. Pearl St., 303-777-0826, www.sushiden.net

Deli

EDITORS Salvaggio's Italian Deli
If you don't mind driving a few miles and standing in line with trustafarians, Boulder's Salvaggio's is the only place we've found that serves a deli sandwich that's both authentic and tasty. Sure, the 'wiches can be a little pricey (a foot-long pastrami with homemade, hand-sliced mozzarella will run you $11), but the food is worth it. No, really. The fresh Boar's Head meats and cheeses are sliced on the spot, and the pillow-soft rolls are baked fresh daily. Multiple locations

READERS Heidi's Brooklyn Deli
So many sites, so much selection. No wonder Heidi's is consistently your top choice. Come for the Cajun turkey and avocado on wheat; stay for the delish smoothies. Multiple locations, www.heidisbrooklyndeli.com

Burger

EDITORS Tie: Elway's, Ted's Montana Grill, and SmashBurger
There are just too many darn good burgers out there; we couldn't settle on one winner this year. Here, our three favorites. If you're willing to pony up $12.50, you can't beat Elway's flavorful Smash Burger. (Little tip: The Cherry Creek version is more consistent.) For those on a midrange budget, Ted's Montana Grill serves a variety of tasty beef or (for a few dollars more) bison burgers with a wide range of toppings. And if fast food will do the trick, try the other SmashBurger, a local mini-chain whose Angus beef burgers far surpass any of the better-known national franchises. Elway's: 2500 E. First Ave., 303-399-5353, 1881 Curtis St., 303-312-3107, www.elways.com; Ted's: Multiple locations, www.tedsmontanagrill.com; SmashBurger: Multiple locations, www.mysmashburger.com

READERS Cherry Cricket
This Cherry Creek North institution has long been a favorite for its no-frills, juicy burgers and its simple, friendly neighborhood atmosphere. Grab a patty and a beer, and watch the game. 2641 E. Second Ave., 303-322-7666, www.cherrycricket.com

Brunch

EDITORS The Kitchen
Our favorite time to pull up a seat at this bustling Boulder bistro, known nationally for its sustainable kitchen and use of local ingredients, is not at dinner hour, or even for lunch. Instead, we like to drop in on a weekend morning, after a hike up nearby Mt. Sanitas, for a golden brioche toast laden with Long Family Farm ham, absolutely buttery hollandaise sauce, and two poached eggs. Only then can we rightfully linger over each savory bite. 1039 Pearl St., Boulder, 303-544-5973, www.thekitchencafe.com

READERS Snooze
On Saturday and Sunday mornings long lines wind out Snooze's door, cluing in passersby that they'd better get in line quick. If you successfully snag a seat in the hip, brightly lit dining room, put in an order for the pineapple upside-down pancakes or the smothered breakfast burrito. You'll know why every weekend loyal diners weather the wait—this is yuppie brunch at its best. 2262 Larimer St., 303-297-0700, www.snoozedenver.com

Breakfast Sandwich

EDITORS (None)
After sampling more than a dozen egg sandwiches, we're sad to report that we couldn't find a decent one in the city. Seriously—not a single one. Our readers couldn't come to a consensus either. Listen up! Breakfast sandwiches should be easy: a scrambled or fried egg, a slice of cheese, crispy bacon or a sausage patty, all stacked on a roll or toast. Microwaved eggs need not apply—use a griddle, people. If you know a great egg sandwich, e-mail us at tot@5280.com. We'll do an update if we find a worthy one.

Fried Chicken

EDITORS Tom's Home Cookin'
We've come to realize that fried chicken is as much about presentation as it is about crispiness. And for us, the simpler the presentation the better. This soul-food standby gives you a perfectly Southern-fried chicken breast, a couple of sides, and bread, all packed into a Styrofoam container by a perpetually cheery staff and sold to you for less than 10 bucks (cash only). Done. 800 E. 26th Ave., 303-388-8035

READERS Steuben's
This upscale Uptown diner has hung much of its reputation on its classic Southern-fried recipe. This version comes with mashed potatoes and gravy and a biscuit—just like mom (or at least someone's mom) used to make it. 523 E. 17th Ave., 303-830-1001, www.steubens.com

Soup

EDITORS Fuel Cafe
Have you ever considered licking the bottom of a soup bowl? We did after trying the soup made by chef Bob Blair (formerly of Parisi) at this new breakfast and lunch cafe in River North's TAXI development. The soup changes daily, meaning that one day you could slurp down the fennel potato with orange crème fraîche, and the next day you'll enjoy a Tuscan bean soup with sausage. This ultra-hip enclave is just minutes from downtown, making it a perfect spot for quick business lunches. 3455 Ringsby Court, 303-296-4642, www.fuelcafedenver.com

READERS Three Sisters Cafe & Catering
Even before you open the door of this downtown cafe, you can smell soup. Not the heat-up-in-the-microwave variety, but the kind that has been simmering and bubbling for what must be hours on a stove. Inside, the constantly changing lineup of eight varieties does not disappoint. From spoon-bending chowders to light, veggie-based broths, you'll find something to warm you up during the winter months and something to fill you up in the summer. Call ahead to listen to the specials on the soup line (303-313-2171), updated daily, so the other hungry souls behind don't have to wait while you deliberate. 1717 Stout St., 303-991-8772, www.threesisterscafeandcatering.com

Cheese Steak

EDITORS and READERS Pat's Philly Steaks and Subs
In a town with no shortage of cheese steak options—we must have a lot of Philly transplants or something—5280 readers and editors agree that Pat's is the best. With one caveat: While Pat's minced beef is perfectly blended with subtle spices and just the right amount of cheese, and never overwhelmed by those infernal vegetables (peppers and onions), a cheese steak that combined Pat's filling with the Wazee Supper Club's just-right hoagie rolls would be truly sublime. Multiple locations, www.patscheesesteaks.com

Small Plates

EDITORS Z Cuisine À Côté
French chef Patrick DuPays created this restaurant—with a rotating menu and an affordable list of wines by the glass—in honor of the Parisian wine bar. In the evenings the tightly packed tables hum with chatter, clicking glasses, and praises for the sweet caramelized French onion soup and the tartine À la Parisienne—an open-faced ham, béchamel, cheese, and fried egg sandwich. 2245 W. 30th Ave., 303-477-1111, www.zcuisineonline.com

READERS The 9th Door
Spain invented tapas, so it's little wonder that the downtown hotspot serving up that country's cuisine should dish out some of the city's best small plates. For traditional Spanish tapas, try the patatas bravas (golden fried potatoes with three sauces). For a more modern twist, order the aguacate (flash-fried avocado). 1818 Blake St., 303-292-2229, www.the9thdoor.com

French Fries

EDITORS Neighborhood Flix Cinema & Café
The sesame-ginger sweet potato fries at Colfax's trendy new dinner-and-a-movie film house are so scrumptious that we've been told they outsell the popcorn. The sweet-and-salty flavor combo in each mouthful leaves you wanting more the minute you're done, and the gingery tang punches up the subtle earthiness. Order them alone and munch your way through that new indie flick, or share a basket with your date before dinner. But be forewarned: These fries are dangerously addictive—as in, entrée...? What entrée? If you do make it to the entrée, the gumbo is great. 2510 E. Colfax Ave., 303-777-3549, www.neighborhoodflix.com

READERS Steuben's
Salty, but not overseasoned. Crispy, but not overcooked. Greasy, but not dripping. An added touch: The fries arrive at your table piping hot in a quaint little tin pail lined with wax paper. Plus, they don't skimp on the serving—the pail is full of fries down to the bottom, not stuffed with crumpled paper at the halfway point (a technique we've noticed elsewhere). 523 E. 17th Ave., 303-830-1001, www.steubens.com

Patio Dining

EDITORS Bistro Vendôme
Sure, almost all the outdoor dining options on Larimer Square are superb. But this Jennifer Jasinski French bistro is top-notch in terms of sheer experience. Steak frites, white twinkly lights, couples whispering to each other over a full-bodied bottle of Chateaux Something. Tucked back there in the courtyard, you'll feel like you've been transported to Paris. Well, almost. So, bon appétit! 1420 Larimer Square, 303-825-3232, www.bistrovendome.com

READERS Lola
Patios and people-watching go together like guacamole and chips (all of which, of course, can be found at Lola). With more than 150 tequilas on hand, sit back and enjoy the city sounds as well as the coastal Mexican cuisine from famed chef Jamey Fader. 1575 Boulder St., 720-570-8686, www.loladenver.com

Bakery for Sweets

EDITORS The Shoppe
Seems like cupcakes are still the big thing for desserts. So what's new and fun in that category? The Shoppe on East Colfax. It's a "cereal and cupcake" joint (how's that for the ultimate in comfort food?) that stays open till 2 a.m. on the weekends, just in case you're having a major craving late at night. Emma Skala, the on-site pastry chef and co-owner, creates more than 15 fabulous flaves (including vegan and gluten-free versions), all made from scratch. Grab a red velvet with cream cheese frosting and eat it on the in-store couch. There will likely be some old-school cartoons for you to watch while you're munching. 3103 E. Colfax Ave., 303-322-3969, www.theshoppedenver.com

READERS Happy Cakes
This beloved bakery, a favorite among Highland residents and Martha Stewart (it made a best-of list on the Martha website), makes wonderful cupcakes. We like the libation-inspired flavors like the Margarita and Jack and Coke. Brides looking to tap the bakery for wedding-tier cupcakes should hurry—Happy Cakes often books up far in advance. 3815 W. 32nd Ave., 303-477-3556, www.happycakesdenver.com

Cookie

EDITORS Wen Chocolates' Gingersnaps
We make regular pilgrimages to this Platte Street shop for chef William Poole's gingersnaps. Made from a secret family recipe, these gourmet treats are at once spicy, molasses-y, and creamy (thanks to the dip of white chocolate). 1541 Platte St., 720-891-4622, www.wenchocolates.com

READERS Paradise Bakery & Café
Paradise can satisfy just about any cookie craving. Take your pick of chocolate chip, snickerdoodle, ginger molasses, sugar, oatmeal raisin, or chocolate with white chocolate chips. Hint: We've found that if you promise to bring Paradise cookies to a company meeting people show up on time. Multiple locations, www.paradisebakery.com

Cup of Coffee

EDITORS The Unseen Bean
Armed with a talking roasting meter and what he calls "blind-roasted passion," Unseen Bean owner Gerry Leary—blind since birth—brews some of the most deliciously complex roasts we've tried...maybe ever. Check out his newish coffee shop off Pearl Street next time you're up north doing some shopping. We suggest getting a bag of Malawi beans to go—smooth with a dark chocolate aftertaste. 2052 Broadway, Boulder, 303-447-2326, www.theunseenbean.com

Restaurant Ambience

EDITORS Second Home
Though the fine-tuned American cuisine is one reason to go to Second Home, ogling the décor is another. Fashioned after a mountain lodge (but not in a wagon wheels and antlers kind of way), this Cherry Creek restaurant wraps diners into its glamorous wooden space. Planks on the floor, ceiling, and walls gleam with sophisticated warmth, while metallic details recall firelight. The effect: cozy yet sleek, modern yet inviting. Plus, huge south-facing windows not only spill natural light, they also offer a view of the pretty people lounging on the plush patio. 150 Clayton Lane, 303-253-3000, www.secondhomedenver.com

Waitstaff

EDITORS Opus Restaurant
Each time we dine at Opus in Old Town Littleton we leave feeling cared for, coddled, and revived. During the car ride home we recount the meal—the flawless dishes prepared by chef Michael Long, the beautiful wines poured in exquisite glassware, and the noteworthy service. Dishes arrive with aplomb but are whisked away unnoticed, water glasses are quietly kept full, and flatware magically appears. The waitstaff, obviously proud of the Opus experience, provides a level of service that is second to none. Plus, a little stroll around Old Town makes the evening just that much more pleasant. 2575 W. Main St., Littleton, 303-703-6787, www.opusdine.com