It was another banner year for Denver’s ever-growing dining scene, which was reflected in our most-read eat and drink stories. Our annual Best Restaurants list—which for the first time wasn’t ranked—saw a mix of stalwarts and standout newcomers. We welcomed an influx of must-visit watering holes and new hot spots. Slow Food Nations hosted its inaugural festival right here in Denver. Even Top Chef recognized the city as an up-and-coming foodie destination, filming its current season throughout the Centennial State. Here, we dish up the year’s most sought-after food and booze stories, according to 5280 readers.

The 25 Best Restaurants in Denver, 2017

Denise Mickelsen | October 2017

1 Year of 5280 for just $19.95 $12.
That's only $1 per issue!
Subscribe Today »

Here’s a fresh look at the eateries—some old, many new—that take excellent care of their guests and consistently bring exceptional flavor to the table.

Ashley Hausman Vaughters is Colorado’s first Master of Wine. Photo by Courtney Killian

Colorado Has A New Master of Wine

Denise Mickelsen | September 7, 2017 

Ashley Hausman Vaughters earned the impressive credential after almost a decade of study and drinking more bottles than she can count.

Biker Jim's Gourmet Dogs
Hot dogs and beer—a classic ballpark pairing—get a Denver-style update at Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs. Photo by Rachel Adams

Your Guide to Eating and Drinking in and Around Coors Field

Justin De La Rosa | April 4, 2017

The best spots to eat and drink before, during, and after the game.

 

Gail Simmons Top Chef
Top Chef judge Gail Simmons has been exploring Denver and beyond during the taping of season 15. Photo courtesy of Tommy Garcia/Bravo Media5,

Top Chef’s Gail Simmons Hates Glamping, Loves Colorado

Denise Mickelsen | June 5, 2017

When she’s not filming elimination challenges, Simmons has been hiking, biking, and eating her way around the Centennial State.

Beatrice and Woodsley
Beatrice & Woodsley’s cozy dining room. Photo courtesy of Beatrice & Woodsley

Seven of the Mile High City’s Coziest Eateries

Fen P. Fenton | December 11, 2017

When the weather outside is frightful, these hibernation-worthy hideaways are so delightful.

Beast & Bottle
Beast & Bottle’s corned lamb shank hash. Photo by Rachel Adams

Where to Brunch Now

Callie Sumlin, Claire Lardizabal, Denise Mickelsen | May 9, 2017

Eight spots that do justice to everyone’s favorite weekend meal.

Keep the romance alive and burning at Retrograde, a new speakeasy. Photograph by Paul Miller

Denver’s Best New Bars

Mary Clare Fischer, Spencer Campbell | February 2017

In the Mile High City, there’s a watering hole for every occasion.

Blackbelly Market’s chef-owner Hosea Rosenberg collaborated with Boulder designer Alan Ortiz on the look of his second restaurant concept, an ode to the cuisine and culture of his home state of New Mexico. Rendering courtesy of Alan Ortiz

Hosea Rosenberg’s Second Boulder Restaurant to Open This Fall

Denise Mickelsen | August 17, 2017 

Santo brings modern New Mexican cuisine to the former home of Scott’s on Alpine. (Bonus: Read about the restaurant’s November debut)

Solutions Lounge
The city’s latest escape room isn’t like all the others: ​Escapology ​Denver is connected to Solutions ​Lounge ​& ​Restaurant. Photo courtesy of Cori Anderson

Denver’s Newest Escape Room Has A Bar (And A Restaurant)

Daliah Singer | October 5, 2017 

Solutions ​Lounge ​& ​Restaurant ​Featuring ​Escapology is now open in Five Points.

The new store, located behind Union Station, is designed for urban Denverites. Courtesy of Whole Foods Market

Everything You Need to Know About Whole Foods Market Union Station

Denise Mickelsen | November 7, 2017

The LoDo store, which doubles as a dining destination, opened on Wednesday, November 15.

Jerilyn Forsythe
Jerilyn Forsythe
Jerilyn Forsythe is a freelance writer and editor, and 5280's former digital associate editor. Follow her on Instagram or Twitter @jlforsyt.