The perfect watering hole?

Cuba Cuba’s spicy mango-cilantro sangria.

We may not be in a citywide bull market, but there are plenty of reasons to feel pretty darn good about real estate in the Mile High City this year. This is especially true of Highlands, which has become a nationally recognized, trendsetting model for the possibilities of 21st-century new urbanism. Here’s how Highlands became the hottest part of town—and which local neighborhoods might be next.

Coohills has the looks, the location, and the crowd, but the French-American menu underwhelms.

Our food scene has never been more vibrant, and with global street eats, Scandinavian-inspired cuisine, and modern comfort food, it’s a thrilling time to be a foodie in the Mile High City. Book a table at one of these eight newcomers—and taste the future of Denver dining.

Chef Kelly Liken mixes gourmet drinks at her Vail restaurant.