Explore and sample amazing Southern Hemisphere wine at the Fall Wine & Food Classic Grand Tasting Event at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater in Vail. Local restaurants will be preparing spectacular tastings. Guests will enjoy a picnic-style event on the grass with south of the equator music while taking in the gorgeous Vail scenery and fall…
A multi-day extravaganza of food, wine, and spirits! The festival will feature a Grand Tasting on the Pepsi Center grounds on Sunday, September 8 with 700+ wines and spirits, a VIP lounge, culinary stage, and silent auction.
We can't assume the GrowHaus purposely chose to set this three-course culinary affair on 4/20, but they probably know it's a good day to have lots of food on hand. And there will be: Four well-known Denver eateries, including Ophelia's Electric Soapbox and the Squeaky Bean, will provide the munchies, while Jagged Mountain Brewery, Peak…
Welcome the warmer weather with this springtime- and European-inspired, six-course meal, during which each dish will be paired with a renowned Allegrini wine made in Italy's Valpolicella region. Start with a pour of the Poggio al Tesoro (2014), which pairs well with Chef Tom Coohill's halibut topped with turnips, Meyer lemon, mustard, and lavender. The…
Fire up your cooking during this two-part workshop series that features your favorite wood-fired pizza pies. Learn how to make a 12-inch pizza peel (that tool chefs use to slide pizzas into the oven) at the Craftsman & Apprentice. Then, join in on part two the following Sunday (May 1) when you'll actually make the…
At this feel-good charity dinner, try a new take on culinary pairing. Guests kick off the night with a cocktail hour that includes a charcuterie station, a raw oyster bar, and signature libations concocted by eight of Denver’s finest bartenders. Attendees can rank their top three choices from a list of more than 30 of…
Travel (through food) to Mexico with Baja-based Chef Javier Plascencia, who will heat up the kitchen with Lola chefs Jamey Fader and Dave Query for a night of six Baja-Mediterranean fusion courses. The courses include an ahi tuna parfait and wood-fired octopus. Cap it all off with a warm doughnut. Each dish is paired with…
Spring has sprung—we hope—thanks to Pax Mahle of Pax Mahle Wines, a leader in California winemaking. Join him and other vino aficionados for a five-course pairing meal featuring fresh springtime flavors. At the family-style table, spoon up Parmesan panna cotta and wash it down with a 2014 Pinot Noir from Sonoma-based Wind Gap Wines. Then…
Spring is in the air—and on the plate. This four-course, farm-fresh meal includes a bread and butter plate with house-cultured butter, a beet tartare, and Colorado trout with fermented fry bread. Each course will be paired with a wine, beer, or cider from the restaurant's libations list. Proceeds benefit A Growing Culture, an organization that…
Tired of trying to attend the many alcohol and food pairing events held in the area? Just pick the largest pairing event of the year, which features more than 88 local brewers and 50-plus unique pairings. Come hungry for eats such as Osteria Marco's Oak Aged Yeti–braised short ribs paired with Great Divide's Oak Aged…
When the Williams & Graham staff is away, the Bon Vivants will come to play. For four days, cocktail connoisseurs can enjoy the whimsical creations of the team from Trick Dog Bar, a San Francisco favorite, as its members take over one of Denver's best watering holes. We can't tell you much about the "Top…
Spend Mother's Day on the couch after this five-course meal on the holiday's eve. Master chef Connie Ruel will craft everything from seared scallops and shrimp custard cake to a duck and beef chip Napoleon. Each creation will be paired with a Kingman Estate wine such as a Chardonnay or Merlot. Sat 6 p.m.
The season for bar crawls is starting, but it's an even better time to hit up your favorite wineries. Visit local vino producers such as Creekside Cellars and Water 2 Wine to get a taste of the fresh libation as wineries release their first batches of the season. Stay close to Denver or venture farther…
This reputable Boulder eatery will be open for brunch for the first time. A basket of pastries and baked goodies will come to the table first followed closely by delectable eats like yellowfin tuna or the soft-shell crab—all paired with your choice of rosé, champagne, or Chablis wine. Sun 11:30 a.m.
Not having to cook is one of the best gifts you can give a mother. Between the prime rib-carving station and the omelet station at this buffer, she won't know where to begin. You can also indulge in the Bloody Mary bar or bottomless mimosas. To top it off, all mothers will receive a rose.…
You might recognize Chef Pati Jinich from her PBS show, Pati's Mexican Table, or for her appearances on the Today Show, The Talk, or NPR's The Splendid Table. This event offers the rare opportunity to see her live for a demo of recipes from her new cookbook, Mexican Today: New and Rediscovered Recipes for Contemporary…
Colorado is spicing up its Big Brothers Big Sisters program by throwing chefs into the mix for the Junior Chef Challenge (May 26). Before locals battle it out, they'll meet to devise a winning strategy. Chef Robert Juan of Zengo will meet with Little Sonya Reza; stop by to meet the pair—or just to enjoy…
With only 20 seats available for this four-course, community-style mea, you'll want to reserve your spot now. Chef Joe Cozza of Carmine's on Penn will woo his dinner guests with dishes like spicy chicken and okra gumbo and jambalaya-inspired stuffed bell peppers. Each creation will be paired with a hand-picked Italian wine. Wed 7-9 p.m.
Maria von Trapp's favorite things may have been strudel and schnitzel with noodles, but ours match up more closely with this spread of indulgences. CopperMuse Distilling bartenders will mix up five mini cocktails to be served with three tapas courses (think: seared scallops and locally raised guineafowl) prepared by xhef Chrissay Pleines. Pair it all…
Stop pairing beer with dinner and go straight for dessert. Mockery Brewing and Pie Bird are teaming up to bring you pairings like a mixed berry mini-pie with a lemon Pilsner. The whole event serves as a Kickstarter fund-raiser for the Brewtography Project, a photographic essay that will depict Colorado's craft brewing industry. Sat 6-9…
One in eight Colorado households is food insecure, yet Americans throw out $165 billion worth of food each year. To combat this problem, Denver organization We Don't Waste rescues unused foodstuffs that would otherwise end up in a landfill—and now the nonprofit is entreating local chefs to help them transform their finds. Cooks like Mijo's…
Redd's Apple Ale and Strongbow are to cider as Budweiser is to beer—and there's nothing wrong with that—but we know the Centennial State can do better. This apple-infused celebration features tastings from 19 Rocky Mountain cideries such as Colorado Cider Company, Colorado Common Cider, and Stem Ciders, and everyone gets a full glass of Molly's…
This biweekly food festival displays an international sensisbility despite its cuisine's local origins. To wit: It's modeled after European outdoor markets that bring together food vendors, artisans, and musicians for a true community experience. Its kickoff session on June 5 features almost three dozen food vendors from across town, including High Point Creamery and Spud…
One of Denver's oldest exisiting microbreweries is celebrating a birthday. Head to Great Divide Brewing Co.'s RiNo location to indulge in its newly released Denver Pale Ale, or be one of the first to try unlimited tastings of its latest 22 Anniversary Dark American Sour Ale. (You'll receive a reusable stainless steel tasting glass to…
At this summer charity event, attendees judge chefs from eight of Denver's best restaurants as they vie for the title of Denver wing king—or queen. The most daring audience members can even throw their own hats into the ring in a wing eating contest, with the chance to win a Coleman portable grill. In addition…
Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant is turning 30 this month, and it's celebrating the significant birthday in almost as many ways. On June 15, all seven locations of the eatery will feature items that were on the original menu in 1986—for the original prices. Three days later, a block party will take over Old Town Fort…
Explore tequila's less popular cousin, mezcal (an alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant), at this tasty event. Guest cooks Martin Campos, executive chef of Comida at the Source; Jose Avila, executive chef and co-owner of Machete Tequila & Tacos; and Sean Yontz, a three-time event veteran, will each create a meal and signature mezcal…
The challenge to find the best of the best of America's favorite cuisine has begun. At this Kansas City Barbeque Society–sanctioned event, more than 70 pit masters will compete in barbecue categories including pork, ribs, chicken, brisket, sauce, and "anything goes" to impress a panel of judges and take home the prize. If you aren't…
Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant is turning 30 this month, and it's celebrating the significant birthday in almost as many ways. On June 15, all seven locations of the eatery will feature items that were on the original menu in 1986—for the original prices. Three days later, a block party will take over Old Town Fort…
Prepare your taste buds for this boozy blowout, where more than 25 Colorado breweries, including LoDo favorites Wynkoop Brewing Company and Tivoli Brewing Company, will offer unlimited samples of craft beer. Stick around after the celebration to hear Live at the Fillmore, a tribute group to the Allman Brothers Band, play a free show at…
The weather is warming up in the Mile High City, which means it's time to trade Cabernet Sauvignon for a pinker drink. During this seasonal tasting, sip on a large selection of rosés accompanied with light bites from Max's Wine Dive Denver, including loaded potato croquettes and sliders made from bison and fried chicken. Bonus:…
Summer nights call for meals on the patio and meat on the grill. At this launch party, experience just that as GoodBird Kitchen chef Mike Nirenberg serves up char-grilled barbecue chicken with coleslaw, barbecue pork and beans, and a biscuit. Enjoy this tasty meal on the lawn with other specials such as pitchers of the…
Wax nostalgic (and get competitive) at this old-school event, where beer lovers face off against one another in a pinewood boxcar race—no previous Cub Scout membership required. Competitors need only purchase a pinewood boxcar kit to obtain entry into the race and get a free beverage on the big day. After the victors are crowned,…
Chefs at Elway's depart from traditional steak house fare to create a unique, summer-inspired menu. This four-course meal, complete with complimentary wine pairings from Napa Valley–based Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, features options ranging from octopus carpaccio with guava reduction and a glass of "Avita" Sauvignon Blanc to miso-lemongrass bass served with smoked wasabi mashed potatoes…
Savor seasonal favorites like seafood and watermelon at this gourmet four-course feast. Executive chef Enrique Socarras will serve up a summery spread of ceviche with bluefin tuna, pickled watermelon with prosciutto, and braised beef cheeks. To wash it all down, Bear Creek Distillery and Tonix will create their own versions of traditional cocktails (think: mojitos…
A seven-course seafood meal is good, but a delicious briny spread paired with wine is even better. Chef Matt Stein will cook up delightful bites from the sea, and sommelier Ashley Hausman Vaughters will provide the ideal vino counterparts. After tasting fresh options such as curried jumbo lump crab paired with Domaine Ciringa Sauvignon Blanc…
With temperatures in the 90s this weekend, the only way to spend the day outside is with a cold beer in hand. After taking advantage of unlimited samples from more than 25 local breweries including Left Hand Brewing Company and Odell Brewing Co., pick your favorites and savor two full pours. Then indulge in a…
With a Mile High Spirits margarita in hand, take a tasty journey through Denver's taco scene. More than 30 vendors including Chuey Fu's Latin-Asian Grub, Colorado Pig Rig, and Torchy's Tacos will offer at least one $2 taco option. Bonus: With a VIP pass, you can check out the Tequila Expo, where you can sample…
The competition will really heat up during this food-focused battle of endurance. Look on as contestants devour wings covered in spicy ghost pepper sauces—the eater who makes it through every plate will take home $50 and dinner for two. While you watch these hungry candidates battle it out, enjoy live music by bluesy group Lady…
There's no better way to acknowledge a year of success than with a cold cider in hand. When you're not visiting the car and motorcycle show, enjoy barbecue from the Rackhouse while rock bands the Atomic Drifters and the Hot Apostles provide live music. Bonus: You can attend a gluten-free cider dinner on Wednesday and…
At this community-driven event, you can enjoy pitchers from local breweries including 300 Suns Brewing, Left Hand Brewing Company, and Oskar Blues Brewing as well as food from Samples World Bistro and Hefe's Tacos and Tequila to the soundtrack of a live show by Fort Collins–based funk group Eufórquestra. Volunteers from these brewhouses will volunteer…
For hours, award-winning Heritage Mulefoot Hogs swiveled on spits over plum-wood embers in preparation for this farm-to-table dinner. The smoky pork will be paired with fresh Lyons Farmette veggies tugged from the ground that morning. To truly celebrate the summer harvest, purchase a bottle of bubbly, which will benefit Middle Boulder Creek Coalition and its…
Take a bite out of Denver's restaurant scene with food tastings from more than 50 restaurants, including Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar and Denver Biscuit Company. A ticket at this food-lovers festival gets you unlimited samples as well as beverages from many local breweries and distilleries including Great Divide Brewery Co. and Woody Creek…
Float around and nosh on kebabs, Russian sochni, and sarma. (Yes, those are all food samplings, and they're served à la carte for optimal tasting.) Then, send the kids over to the jump castle as you enjoy ethnic performances such as folk dancers and singers. If you get a hankering to spend some money, hit…
Indulge in a "to-die-for" menu and don your detective cap for this murder mystery dinner, which celebrates Rebel Restaurant's first year of business. The evening will begin with a cocktail hour featuring slasher-themed drinks such as the "Hello Clarice," made with chianti and Apostles yerba mate gin. Then chefs Dan Lasiy and Bo Porytko will…
For this seasonal meal, Chef Dakota Soifer from Cafe Aion will prepare a vegetarian menu with items grown at Oxford Gardens. Using a variety of greens, the chef will prepare a whole wheat tart with caramelized shallots, chilled Hakurei turnip soup, and rolled pasta with baby Swiss chard. The farm-fresh dinner will be paired with…
Inspired by the 30th anniversary of the Beastie Boys' debut album, this Musical Chairs dinner series meal appeals to music lovers and foodies alike. The dishes are named after songs on the album, including the "Brass Monkey," which is hop and vodka cured sockeye salmon, and the "No Sleep Till Brooklyn," a cheesecake parfait with…
Make a good lookin' (and tastin') cupcake with a glass of wine in hand. The hosts, Girls Gone Grape, know how its done. Join them for an after-work happy hour and relieve some stress as you bake and decorate these mini-cakes. Go home with a souviner—four cupcakes to get your through that Friday workday. Thu…
Come together for a night that combines music from the Beatles with a spread of brews named after their greatest hits. This evening tasting will feature new Joyride Brewing Company beers, including the White Double IPA and the Sgt. Pepper Sour Mashed IPA, paired with small bites such as the Spotted Trotter's black pepper salami…
This beer-centric festival started in 2004—back before craft beer was even cool. (Well, maybe craft beer has always been cool, but you get the point.) Grab your souvenir glass and join some of your closest brewing friends including Avery Brewing Co. and Ratio Beerworks for a weekend full of hops. Mosey from tent to tent…
More than 25 craft breweries and 36 barbecue teams will take over Ralston Park for a summer day of 'cue and brews. As barbecue teams vie for that $10,000 prize (yes, you'll get to taste the meaty contenders), sip on some homegrown suds from establishments such as Boulder Beer and Loveland Aleworks. Our recommendation: Buy…
The Long I Pie Shop and Black Shirt Brewing are teaming up for a night of unique beers and top-notch pies. At this collaborative feast, enjoy pairings including Spicy Peach pie with Hibiscus and Elderflower Saison or Coconut Chess pie paired with Black Beacon Sound Stout. As you snack, watch recordings of old concerts played…
Robert Mondavi Winery the Palm Denver will pair up for this tasty birthday celebration. The restaurants have crafted a five-course appetizer and wine menu including a garlic parmesan polenta crisp served with Robert Mondavi prosecco and crab wontons with pinot noir. Feed your stomach and your mind with a unique lesson from master of wine…
Grab some burger bucks ($1 each) and make your way around this beefy festival; redeem your bucks for beers and burgers. Twenty of Colorado's best chefs fire up the grill and compete for the title of Colorado's Best Burger and a ticket to the nationally televised World Food Championship in Florida. (Stuft Burgers from Fort…
See who will take the title of Beer vs. Beer World Champion as Ska Brewing takes on Wibby Brewing, the reigning champ. Will the hometown favorite retain its title or will the Durango-based, music-inspired counterpart dominate? You get to decide. Oh, and there will be food for noshing, too. Sun 6:30-9:30 p.m.
At this curious tasting, history buffs and dairy lovers can come together for an educational meal. James Beard Award–winning author Adrian Miller will share fascinating stories on the history of soul food in the White House kitchen as you chow down on bowls of three-cheese macaroni. This comfort food staple will be served up buffet-style…
Let this event take you down to the good old south. Join East Coast Joe's while they prepare an all-you-can-eat comfort meal of crawfish, corn, and potatoes. Enjoy live music from Soultyme, a bluegrass and funk band, and local beer along with your meal. Wed 6-8 p.m.
This gourmet meal will delight all of your sense. Snack on tasty small plates, including stone fruit panzanella salad from River and Woods and Carter Country beef tartare from the Blackbelly Butcher Shop, while you enjoy a performance by Opera on Tap Colorado. Then check out A Tale of Three Seasides, a short film by…
To celebrate the Centennial State's 140th birthday, sample 236 wines from 33 local wineries. Sip blends from Plum Creek Winery as you snack on small plates made by chefs from Cafe Marmotte and the Arvada Tavern. Plus, the judges will announce the first, second, and third place winners in the Governor's Cup Wine Competition. Thu…
Grab your official festival sampling mug and get sipping. This festival will feature more than 100 beers with options from multiple Colorado breweries including Left Hand Brewing Company and Great Divide Brewing Company. Snag an "Eat, Drink, Pick" pass for the kick-off event Friday to sample from six small plate stations each featuring New Belgium…
The Centennial State's second-largest immigrant population will share the flavors of their homeland during this authentic feast. Savor a meal of injera (Ethiopian flat bread), spicy beef stew, and tiqel gomen (cabbage, potatoes and garlic) prepared by volunteer cooks with Ethiopian heritage while enjoying a folk dance performance by the Ethiopian Youth Dancers of Colorado.…
Help eradicate invasive species by incorporating them into your next meal. Dine on a purslane salad, charcoal-cured lionfish with charred jimmy pepper vinegar and smoked olive oil, and prickly pear macaroons made by chef Paul C. Reilly. The seafood will be provided by Sea to Table, an organization that partners directly with fishermen to deliver…
More than half of the United States' 68 Certified Master Chefs, an elite group who have passed an eight-day ACMC exam, will come together in the Mile High City for this gourmet dinner. The menu will feature ingredients sourced from Colorado, including lamb, seasonal vegetables, and peaches. Beer and wine will be provided by Colorado…
Among the 19 restaurants at this sophisticated feast are three newcomers offering a taste of their eclectic menus. Satisfy your curiosity by sampling bites from Departure Restaurant & Lounge, Sol Cocina, and Thirsy Lion Gastropub & Grill. As local band Mostly Harmless plays covers of classic rock hits, wash down your meal with a glass…
Soar through the Colorado craft beer scene at this collaborative event dedicated to aircraft, cars, and icy brews. Sip samples from more than 30 Colorado breweries, including Little Machine Beer and Lost Highway Brewing Company, while enjoying barbeque provided by Jim 'N Nick. Proceeds benefit Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. Sat 5-9…
Whether you're a caffeine addict or an occasional latte drinker, this tour is the perfect way to learn more about the Mile High City's craft coffee scene. Visit a handful of local coffee houses and sample three- to six-ounce pours of different roasts, chai, or kombucha at each stop. Bonus: The java experts at each…
While exploring the diverse dining scene in Denver, if you always find yourself gravitating toward tacos, you're not alone. Starting as one of many concepts at DISH, an annual dining festival, this taco-centric event is going solo this year. Indulge in unlimited tacos from 40 taquerias and Mexican restaurants including Lola Mexican Fish House, Rio…
Focus on summer vegetables during a seasonal, multi-course dinner prepared with hand-picked ingredients fresh from the garden. Chef Hosea Rosenberg and his culinary team will prepare the farm-fresh meal, and staffers from the Boulder County Arts Alliance will be serving beer and wine. All proceeds from alcohol sales will benefit the BCAA, which works to…
Aspiring critics can cast their votes for Denver's best dishes and drinks at this tasty competition. Prominent Denver chefs from restaurants such as Max's Wine Dive and Lucky Cat will create small plates, including tuna poke and fried snow crab sliders, as they battle to win the coveted Golden Fork award. Wash down each bite…
You won't find any ramen noodles or microwave pizzas at this introductory cooking class. Here you'll learn basic culinary techniques that won't break the bank if you're on a college budget. Recipes include carrot ginger soup, roast chicken, and a wedge salad with honey buttermilk dressing. Sat 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Forget going around the world in 80 days—you can make the journey in one. This fête offers a tasty way to learn about different cultures: Delight in a feast inspired by the flavors of Nigeria, Vietnam, and Italy, sample local brews from breweries including Dry Dock Brewing Co., Ursula Brewery, and Caution Brewing Co., each…
Whether you're in the mood for beer and tequila or you're the designated driver for the evening, this festival has you covered. Sample more than 70 tequila options, including 1800 Silver, Patron, Herradura, and Corralejo, or opt for non-alcoholic beverages such as Jarritos soda. Local mariachi bands will give an entertaining performance as you snack…
Summer might be winding down, but that doesn't mean you should limit your rosé intake. At this four-course dinner, indulge in decadent pairings, including smoked goat cheese with greens paired with pinot noir rosé from Dundee Hills in Oregon and duck with sunflower seed risotto paired with Sangiovese Rosé from Montalcino, Italy. Tue 7:30 p.m.
When prominent local chefs come together to create a six-course meal, the results are bound to be delicious. For this gourmet dinner, Brett Smith of the Post Brewing Company, Hosea Rosenberg of Blackberry Market, and other guest cooks will craft a menu including lobster consomme served with oyster mushroom flan as well as crispy pork…
The cheesiest night of your summer awaits. At this hands-on workshop, Steve Duty, former cheese- and winemaker at Cheese & Provisions, shows you how to select the perfect cheese to accompany any wine. Come prepared for a filling, seasonal platter of up to 18 cheeses and perfectly paired glasses of rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, Albariño, and…
This sophisticated dinner is the perfect gentlemen's night out. Savor a gourmet meal, including a rib eye steak as well as jalapeño mac and cheese, prepared by chef Mario Hernandez as you listen to a live performance by Sinatra-inspired crooner Don D'Angelo. Then wash it all down with a glass of Jack Daniel's Sinatra Select…
At this funky outdoor festival, you can indulge in two of Colorado's most refreshing craft beverages. More than 75 cideries and breweries, including Colorado Springs–based Colorado Common Hard Cider and Denver's C Squared Ciders, will offer samples while acrobats and jugglers show off their talents between booths. Bonus: On Friday evening, learn how to pair…
Bacon and bourbon unite at this party dedicated to the salty meat and its ideal pairing. Sample 15 of the 75 bourbon options, including Old Forester, and attend a lavish hog-themed dinner at Taddeo's Breckenridge Italian Restaurant. A portion of the proceeds benefits Breckenridge Mountain Rotary, which organizes regional community service projects. Sat 3-6 p.m.…
As part of the Source's culinary Pop-up Series, Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal will pour cocktails and spirits at this one-of-a-kind tasting. Join mezcal expert Evan Meeker from Del Maguey and RiNo Yacht Club's beverage director McLain Hedges as they teach you about different varieties and share delicious cocktail recipes. To make sure you don't…
Thanks to this patio party, you have another excuse to wear your favorite white sundress. As you admire fragrant floral centerpieces, sip on a three-taster flight of organic white wine from the Harvest Wine Co. and nosh on cheese and charcuterie from the Farmhouse at Jessup Farm and the Loafing Shed. Proceeds benefit Women& Inc,…
Celebrate the best of Colorado cuisine by tasting old favorites alongside dishes from fresh new restaurants. New bites featured in this year's spread include baby back ribs and pulled pork from Souza's Smokin BBQ as well as chicken tikka masala from India's Restaurant. Enjoy samples of appetizers, entrees, and desserts as you jive along to…
Elsa Sroka's method of painting—laying down foundational colors then scraping some of the paint away—is not the only unconventional element of the artist's work. At this solo exhibition, you can admire Sroka's unconventional cow series, which includes paintings of bovines in odd locations as well as intimate portraits of the animals. By juxtaposing elements of…
By indulging in a five-course, farm-to-table meal, you'll be doing more to support local agriculture than just eating it. Savor summer risotto, roasted pork, and a sweet corn salad made by Chef Brent Jackson from the Kitchen alongside brews from from Horse & Dragon Brewing Company or cider from Summit Hard Cider, while folksy duo…
Trade Chopped reruns for Denver chefs battling live at this charitable competition. After local culinary celebrities, including Beast & Bottle's Jodi Poulson and Dan Kane from Del Frisco's Grille, craft five delectable courses, you can sample small plates and cast your vote for the most delicious entries. Proceeds benefit the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the…
Forget Pokemon Go—it's time to test your Mario Kart skills. At RiNo's first annual beer and cider festival, Colorado brews and grub will be served with a side of arcade games. Local food trucks such as El Carte 303 and California Wrap Runner will provide food, and local breweries such as Great Divide Brewing Co.…
At this booze-lover's festival, more than 25 local breweries and cideries will quench your thirst. Sample four-ounce pours from a wide variety of local beermakers, including Avery Brewing Company, Boulder Beer, and Eddyline Brewery, or indulge in a refreshing, gluten-free glass of cider from Firestone-based Wild Cider. Throughout the day, satisfy your hunger by snacking…
At this heat lover's contest, sample six different chili dishes alongside a cheese quasadilla, then cast your votes to choose the $100 winners in each category. While you're there, be sure to try an unconventional twist on the spicy favorite: Sweet Action Ice Cream's Roasted Green Chile flavor. Proceeds benefit Food Bank of the Rockies,…
Join chef Bradford Heap from Wild Standard as he works with other top chefs in Denver to craft a meal for particularly refined palettes. The multicourse menu includes hand-rolled cavatelli by Alex Seidel of Mercantile Dining & Provision as well as a Colorado-sourced lamb dish by Boulder chef Dave Query. Each course will be complemented…
Satisfy your a.m. cravings at this inaugural breakfast smorgasbord, which is part of the Denver Food and Wine Festival. More than 15 local eateries, including Denver staple Rosenberg's Bagels & Delicatessen, will be serving up tasty brunch favorites alongside a Bloody Mary bar with a world-record 57 garnishes. The best part: you're told to show…
Before you indulge in this five-course meal, get a behind-the-scenes look at the origins of your dinner. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of a working goat farm, then settle in to enjoy a seasonal supper featuring locally grown ingredients. Jeff Deakyne from the Plimoth and GrowHaus' aquaponic farm manager Marielle D'Onofrio…
Say goodbye to summer with multiple cold beers and a fall-inspired meal curated by chefs Alex Schuler and Sven Hedenas from Arugula Bar e Ristorante. Avery Brewing Co. will offer seasonal brews, including El Gose, a German-style sour ale, and Salvation, a Belgian-style Golden ale to complement the five-course meal, which will include a Caprese…
At this vino lover's extravaganza, take in a breathtaking mountain view with a wine glass in hand. Sample a five-course, farm-to-table dinner by Sevens' executive chef Tristan Guger and don't miss the Wine on the Mountain Grand Tasting, during which attendees have the opportunity to sample small bites and wines from eateries including Briar Rose…
If you prefer your wine chilled and adorned with fruit, this educational girls night workshop is perfect for you. As you sip on refreshing sangria, chef Chris Herrington will teach you and your gal pals how to cook up Spanish-inspired small bites, including gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), lamb meatballs, and chocolate-dipped churros with a…
After this hands-on workshop, you'll never need to leave your house for a well-crafted drink. Katy Foster, the chef and owner of Stir, will teach you all the tools and skills you'll need, such as muddling and straining, to craft perfect martinis, mojitos, and margaritas. Sat noon-3 p.m.
You don't have to travel to Munich this fall to sample a delicious spread of German fare. At this Oktoberfest bash, fill your stein with a frosty beer, such as a malty Märzen or a citrusy Weissbier, from Prost Brewing and snack on a roasted bratwurst from Denver's Continental Sausage. Show up before the noshing…
Summer is almost over, but that doesn't mean you have to forgo ice cream until next year. Join the executive pastry chef of Steuben's, Nadine Donovan, as she showcases four frosty flavors: Cracker Jack, strawberry malt, banana cream pie, and graham cracker chocolate porter. Grab a cone from the Ace Bar Bus, then challenge your…
Forget pumpkin spice lattes—we'd rather satisfy our craving with a pumpkin-flavored brew. In honor of its second anniversary, Lost Highway Brewing Company will release its new Pumpnik Pied-Eyed brew alongside barbecue from the Ol' Skool Que food truck and small "bundtinis" from Nothing Bundt Cakes. In addition to the tasty treats, celebrate the brewery's birthday…
Join some of Denver's top chefs, including Blake Edmunds from Bar Dough and Andrew Van Stee from Cart Driver, as they craft a meal using organic produce grown by Josh Olsen from the Squeaky Bean Farm & Table. This seven-course menu will include farmed rabbit served with summer squash as well as vadouvan-seasoned duck served…
Join some of America's top artisan booze makers, including 808 Distillery and Downslope Distilling, as they gather for a night that highlights the American small-batch spirits scene. With your complimentary commemorative glass, sample dozens of spirits as well as cocktails prepared by the Colorado Bartenders Guild, such as an Old Tom Mule and a Fancy…
Denver might be landlocked, but the zoo offers more than one way to consider marine animals this weekend. Grab a seafood bite from one of 10 food trucks, including ahi tuna burritos from Chuey Fu’s Latin-Asian Grub or sustainable eel rolls from Roll It Up Sushi Truck. Then Angela Haseltine Pozzi, the artist behind Washed…
This charity festival will appeal to you whether you're a history buff or simply a fan of tasty burgers. Sip on cold beverages from 25 brewers including Smiling Toad Brewery, Fossil Brewing Company, and Eddyline Brewing while enjoying pizza and burgers from local restaurants and tapping your toes to a live performance by bluegrass band…
Catch some of your favorite meals on wheels, including barbecue truck Chibby Wibbitz and the Mac Shack, before prime food truck season ends. As DJ Sawn Green plays live tribal and house music, you can nosh and sip on an IPA, pale ale, or saison provided by Black Shirt Brewing Co. or wine from Molly's…
Don your most convincing mermaid costume and venture into the sea of craft beer during this ocean-themed celebration of Colorado's favorite drink. At this eclectic event, sample brews from Boulder breweries and snack on a miso ramen bowl from Rama Ramen as you enjoy a live performance by indie rock back the Copper Children. Proceeds…
Thanks to this lesson, the cute mason jars in your cupboard can be more than just cute glasses. After this tasty class taught by Sari Kimbell of the Cooking Studio, you'll use those glass containers to store delicious homemade preserves, such as pear jam and apple butter. Learn the techniques for creating your own sauces…
If you're not familiar with what distinguishes a fresh-hopped beer from a normal brew, consider this tasting event a delicious chance to learn. Forty brewers, including locals from Denver Beer Company and Spangalang Brewery, will show off the concoctions they made with hops picked less than 24 hours before they were dried and used. Grab…
Experience a collaboration between Colorado chefs, restaurateurs, and farmers at this locally sourced dinner. Chefs from Golden restaurants, including Table Mountain Inn and Abejas Restaurant, will create a four-course dinner using ingredients from Kilt Farm and Arvada-based Micro Farms. The plant-heavy menu will include a grape and turnip appetizer as well as a kale-apple salad…
Even if you didn't score tickets to the Great American Beer Festival, you can sample a spread of unique craft brews—and score a hearty meal—at this pig roast. Chef Jon Tarvin from the Kitchen Denver will serve up six delectable swine-centric dishes, including crispy herbed pig shoulder, braised ribs with confit pork belly, and praline…
Kick off the Great American Beer Festival with a five-course dinner crafted by award-winning chefs from across the country. Local culinary leader Alex Seidel from Mercantile Dining & Provision will work alongside David LeFevre from Los Angeles and Steve McHugh from San Antonio to create a meal that pairs perfectly with local craft brews. Indulge…
Savor seasonal beverages and bountiful hors d'oeuvres during a night honoring female cancer survivors and researchers. During the cocktail hour, Old Major will serve a spiced pear Manhattan and Mercantile Dining & Provisions will pour up an autumn spiced sparkler, then you can choose your favorite toppings at a mac-and-cheese bar from Relish Catering &…
The Great American Beer Festival might have sold out, but you still have a chance to sample local brews at this chocolate lover's tasting event. Indulge in decadent samples from the Chocolate Crisis Center alongside crisp local beer, such as a dark chocolate sea salt carmelita with a strong pale ale from Epic Brewing Company,…
In an effort to minimize waste and bring awareness to the amount of food that goes uneaten daily, James Beard Award-winning chef Jennifer Jasinski will use nearly 2,000 pounds of food from local nonprofit We Don't Waste to create a meal serving 5,000 people. While enjoying Jasinski's vegetable "Madras Style" curry, which will consist of…
The only way to top a day filled with unlimited tipples and fried pastries is to walk away with free doughnuts for life. Indulge in unlimited samples from Carbon Beverage Cafe & Habit Doughnuts, LaMar's Donuts, Donut Maker, and Walton Donuts while sipping on whiskey provided by Denver-based Molly's Spirits. As a registered ticket holder,…
For five nights, five different chefs from a multitude of legendary Denver eateries such as Steuben's, The Kitchen, Snooze, and more team up to serve a gourmet meal from Spanish, Italian, Southeast Asia, French, and Southern cultures. Sample unique dishes such as Sunday's Galician octopus a la plancha and Tuesday's foraged mushroom larb, and wash…
Leave your Keurig at home, and get ready to press, pour, and grind your way to coffee stardom. You don't need to be a seasoned barista to tackle this competition, just show up with knowledge of either Chemex, Aeropress, or V60 brewing methods to compete for designer coffee machines and other swag. And if coffee…
During this class, cure your knead for bread by learning tips and tricks to help you bake the perfect loaf at home. Lauren Richardson from Greenhouse Grower, a nonprofit that unites the Boulder community through urban agricultural programs, will demonstrate kneading and shaping techniques you can use to make loaves of sourdough, whole grain, and…
If dinner and a movie is your go-to weekend plan, add this four-day festival centered on culinary film and local food to your calendar. After hearing from culinary speakers including Hosea Rosenberg of Blackbelly Market and the Squeaky Bean's Theo Adley, cap off the weekend at Basta for the Taste the Wild: Bristol Bay Sockeye…
Join eight celebrity chefs as they bring the experience of New York's historic James Beard House to Denver. Local chefs including Laurent Mechin of the St. Julien Hotel & Spa and Flagstaff House's Mark Monette will be joined by nationally-acclaimed chefs such as Mindy Segal of Mindy’s HotChocolate Restaurant and Dessert Bar in Chicago and…
At this event, you can participate in cooking classes, sample handcrafted spirits, and learn how to cure the hangover blues. After sampling spirits such as Old Blue Bourbon from Longmont-based Black Canyon Distillery and Devious Vanilla Vodka from Greeley's Syntax Spirits, cast your vote for the People's Choice award. Then learn to incorporate craft spirits…
Thanks to this boozy festival, you can sample up to ten versions of your favorite morning cocktail without ever having to decide where to go to brunch. Ten local restaurants, including Sassafras American Eatery, Bacon Social House, and the Denver Biscuit Company, will pour up Bloody Marys made from their own innovative mixes. While you…
At this boozy event, attendees can sample 11 Denver-made mixes and cast their votes for the best Bloody Mary in the Mile High City. As participants mill about, tasting entries from Denver Biscuit Company, Ace Eat Serve, Highland Tavern, Snooze, and other local favorites, they can also enjoy culinary offerings from food trucks such as…
Join the Secret Sauce restaurant team, which includes Vesta Dipping Grill, Ace, Eat, Serve, and both Uptown and Arvada Steuben's, for a meal provided by Vesta's executive chef Nicholas Kayser. The menu features more than ten small plates with options including house-made Andouille sausage jambalaya, crab cakes, and okra gumbo. Top off your meal with…
Hors d'oeuvre and wine will be in high supply at this autumnal event for curious epicureans. Expert butchers will hold demos on breaking down animals for different cuts of meat, while guests nosh on small bites and bid on auction items, including a half lamb from Boulder Lamb. Other (less meaty) prizes include goods and…
Rather surprisingly, beer making and classical music have a lot in common. To commemorate this fine pairing, Steuart Pincombe will play Bach's Cello Suits while River North Brewery pairs three suits with their own brews. While sipping on witbiers, Saisons, IPAs, and ales, hear short explanations of the Pincombe's approach to music as well as…
When you head over to Avanti Food & Beverage this Saturday, plan to stay the whole day. Happy hour pricing will be in full effect until close, and the Wolf Bar will be serving up Dogfish Head Brewery specials all day. Munch on some food from one of the seven restaurant concepts, sip on an…
Rather than filling up on free candy this Halloween, head over to Mister Tuna to indulge in a free pig roast and late-night food and drink specials. Small bites include Kobe beef sliders, Kampachi collar, beef heart skewers, and Vietnamese-style oyster shooters with tipples such as Jameson, jello shots, and a Halloween-inspired cocktail. Throw on…
During this three-day festival, explore a large selection of international and domestic without leaving the Rocky Mountains. Don't miss the grand tasting event, which will include varieties from more than 80 wineries, including South African Babylonstoren and Gibbston Valley Winery in New Zealand. At the Pairsine Food and Wine Pairing Competition, ten chefs—such as Alex…
Join Steven Redzikowski of OAK at Fourteenth, Acorn, and Brider, as he teams with T/ACO owner Peter Waters for a taco-inspired pop-up dinner. Along with a selection of small plates, Redzikowski and Waters will be serving up three innovative taco options: the Brider Taco with roasted chicken, shishito pepper and corn hash, and jalepeño vinaigrette;…
Fall is in full swing at this community-oriented shindig. Bring the family and indulge in a pig roast featuring a tempeh entree from Happy Leaf Kombucha and tipples provided by Stem Ciders, Joyride Brewing Company, and Happy Leaf Kombucha. Celebrate the fall season with activities that include pickle making, candle dipping, henna, and yard games.…
At this boozy festivals, you can sip on beer and learn to make it yourself. Sample seasonal tipples from more than 20 craft breweries, including Whistle Pig Brewing Company, Odell Brewing Co., and Left Hand Brewing Company. Then experts from Niwot Hops, a small organic hops farm, and Root Shoot Malting, a craft malt house…
If you think bacon is best paired with beer, then prepare for a day brimming with your ideal combination. Hosted by Eat Boston and Two Parts, this event will feature more than 20 local breweries, including Alpine Dog Brewing Company and Colorado Cider Company, and top-notch restaurants such as Max's Wine Dive and Second Home…
Cheese connoisseurs and whey whizzes can come together for this large-scale cheesy extravaganza. Taste samples from more than 30 vendors including Ugly Goat Milk Company, Jasper Hill Farm, and Cheese Importers. Plus, you can learn how to turn your love of cheese into a hobby by taking an introductory workshop on making hard cheeses hosted…
Take a trip through Italy during this luxurious eight-course meal featuring plenty of truffle dishes. Barolo's executive chef Darrel Truett will craft multiple egg and truffle pairings, including a truffled egg with black truffle aioli as well as his ouvo raviolo, which contain a savory truffle-egg filling. Wash down the fancy supper with a variety…
Indulge in one more gourmet meal on the patio before the weathy gets too chilly After enjoying light appetizers, savor chef Marco Ramirez's five-course meal with pairings from the California-based Prisoner Wine Company. The Cuttings, a cabernet sauvignon with aromas of black cherry, will be paired with a blackened steak, and the Prisoner, a red…
Gear up for a night filled with bike-and-food-themed trivia and prizes including a Schwinn cruiser, a rover pack from Topo Designs, and Kaladi Brothers Coffee cards. Nosh on food from vendors including City, O' City, Sexy Pizza, and Little Man Ice Cream, sip brews from Great Divide Brewing Co., and learn about the Denver Food…
Past or present members of the military can stop by Wazee Lounge & Supper Club, Tstreet Roadhouse, and the Roadhouse Boulder Depot to snag a free appetizer this Veterans Day. No other purchase is necessary, just bring proof of past or current service (a military ID, an old photo, or a piece of clothing works),…
As the holiday season quickly approaches, there is no better time to learn how to make this classic Mexican dish. Tamales, a Christmastime tradition in several regions, are typically made with masa harina—cornmeal flour—and stuffed with meat, chili, vegetables, and cheese before being steamed in a corn husk. At this handy workshop, chef Rebecca Stein…
If a night of unlimited samples isn't enough to lure you in, then the unique chocolate-inspired food offerings and libations from Kingman Estates Winery certainly will. In addition to sweet treats provided by eight Denver-based chocolatiers, Chocolate Lab will provide pulled pork sliders with bourbon chocolate bbq sauce, mini butternut squash with shaved dark chocolate,…
This five-course seasonal meal brings together food, poetry, music, and art. Guests can look forward to refined creations like coal burnt pimenton vin, shaved gjetost, beet dolma with tomato poached mushrooms, and a cast iron Spanish tortilla served with sunchoke purée. Local and foraged ingredients shape the evening’s menu, complemented by beer from Soul Squared…
After this interactive workshop, you'll have an Instagram feed even food bloggers would envy. With guidance from chef Steven Nalls of the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, create crowd-pleasing desserts, such as chocolate souffles, fruit tarts, and Dixie pie. Then learn tips and tricks for plating your culinary masterpieces like the pros. Sun 3…
If you believe scotch and cigars are as natural a duo as salt and pepper, then this event is for you. Each guest will receive two cigars and three Macallan scotch selections. The three-course meal will include pairings such as a shrimp cocktail with Macallan 15-year-old Fine Oak, a prime ribeye with Macallan Limited Edition…
Featuring a surprise menu, this community-driven dinner encourages you to experience flavors you haven't tried before. Local produce will be the focus of this Argentinean five-course meal, which will include appetizers like bruschetta and crusty breads dipped in scented oils as well as meats cooked over an open flame. Sat 2-8 p.m.
Celebrate autumn in Colorado with a nourishing meal consisting of local game and fresh vegetables. This six-course spread will offer bison meatballs, elk cassoulet, venison carbonara, smoked trout, and tak steak complemented by squash, shallots, and farm greens. While enjoying a beverage of your choice (this event is BYOB), cap the night off with an…
Dark beers take the stage at this boozy charity celebration. Nearly 30 breweries—including Left Hand Brewing Company, Dry Dock Brewing Company, Fiction Beer Company, and Ratio Beerworks—converge to showcase their best dark beers alongside unlimited dark chocolates and other sweet treats. In addition to the limitless tastings and complimentary bittersweet desserts, ticket proceeds from the…
Give back to the community by heading to Bellwether Food Bank this holiday season. The coffee shop is providing meals to those in need as well as take-home Thanksgiving dinners for families. Lend a helping hand by passing out food or offer up your skills as a photographer, barber, or musician—this event is open to…
This beloved Denver hangout is celebrating its fourth year on the scene, and the staff wants to share that milestone with you. Hearty buffet-style appetizers will include a macaroni and cheese bar, a wing station, and copious pulled pork sandwiches. While enjoying live music by DJ Steze, sip on drinks of your choice (options include…
Spend the night before Thanksgiving feeling extra cozy—and extra grateful for Denver's booming culinary scene. Guests of this one-night event will get free range of The Way Back's inventive, locally sourced menu featuring dishes like lamb ribs with charred grapes, whole wheat crespelle with salt-roasted beets, and pork chops with carrot-pear pavé. After chowing down,…
Two days filled with decadent chocolate treats can make even a five-hour drive into the mountains worth it. Head up to Creede for this dessert-focused extravaganza, where more than 15 local businesses will be mixing up batches of homemade chocolate and creating delicious desserts, such as tiramisu and chocolate covered pretzels. Eating your way down…
Celebrate Black Friday by going full noir for breakfast. Starting early enough so as not to interfere with a day of shopping, this twist on traditional brunch includes black truffle tortellini with prosciutto brodo, steak and eggs with black garlic aioli, and blackberry pancakes. And if you didn't get your turkey fix the night before,…
Have you ever wondered about the origins of some of the most iconic cocktails? (Think: sidecar, martini, Old-Fashioned, and Margarita) Well, chef Marco Ramirez of the Palm Restaurant will walk you through each beverage and share recipes to liven them up for the holidays. Guests will enjoy complimentary food pairings with each cocktail, recipe cards…
It's time to pop the bubbly and shoot some oysters to get the holiday season started. At this classy event, Marczyk Fine Foods will serve up the oysters and Infinite Monkey Theorem will provide the champagne. Only purchase as much as you desire while enjoying the creative stylings of abstract visual artist Robert Bell and…
There are 100,000 reasons to put this festival on your holiday calendar—and they all come in the form of delicious chocolate samples. Owing to its immense popularity, this event has stretched into two days for the first time in eight years. Take advantage of the extra day to shop for the holidays, listen to the…
Join more than 70 local food growers and more than 60 Colorado artisans as they gather for one of the last markets of the year. Offerings include root vegetables, winter squash, specialty cuts of lamb, beef, and pork, fresh eggs, preserved fruits and vegetables, wine, coffee, and baked goods. Sat-Sun, times vary.
Whether you prefer a brothy stew or a hearty chowder, there's no disputing the comfort of warm soup on a chilled winter day. And at this competition, the comfort is endless as local restaurants and amateur chefs bring their best bouillon game. While sampling multiple soups—and sipping on two complimentary New Belgium brews—you will act…
Indulge in an early holiday meal of local craft beer and decadent fare. Executive Chef Mario Hernandez's four-course dinner will include shrimp ceviche paired with Avery Brewing Company’s popular White Rascal ale, confit duck tacos and a Raja Double IPA, and pork chops and sweet potato puree complimented by an Old Jubilation Winter Ale. Avery's…
Slip a few new tricks up your sleeve just in time for a month of holiday parties. With the help of the Crimson Room's bartender, learn how to mix and shake two vodka-based, holiday-themed tipples that would rival the creations of even the most seasoned mixologist. Tue, times vary.
As part of the Mountaintop Dinner Series, this locally sourced meal will feature fare grown at the Broadmoor farms. With produce that highlights the flavors of the season, such as acorn squash, carrots, zucchini, and heirloom tomatoes, the feast will end a bountiful fall season. Wed 6 p.m.
Take your holiday entertaining to the next level by matching the ideal sparkling wine to your whey of choice. Come with an empty stomach, as chef Steve Duty will walk you through an extensive tasting experience with more than five cheese and beverage pairings. Thu 7-8:30
Celebrate the launch of The Cocktail Project, a comprehensive website offering an impressive collection of cocktail recipes to wannabe mixologists (alongisde drool-worthy photos). To show you how it's done in person, professional mixologist James Menkal of Departure Restaurant and Lounge will be serving up drinks featuring Effen Vodka, Honitos Tequila, and Knob Creek Bourbon. Each…
There might be no finer pairing than the holiday season and an abundance of sweet treats. With the help of Escoffier's professional chefs, learn the art of crafting Christmas brittle, classic toffee, peppermint bark, and rocky road fudge. Your holiday guests will thank you. Sat 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Join Mr. and Mrs. Claus for a traditional breakfast buffet consisting of a Denver omelet bake, biscuits and peppered gravy, sausage, potatoes, ham, and French toast. For the parents, Bloody Marys and mimosas are available to sip on while the kids make festive crafts and give their wish lists to Santa. Saturdays, times vary.
Experience truly rare and intoxicating tastes at this dinner featuring dishes flavored with one of the world’s most renowned culinary treasures—the divinely aromatic white truffle. Food & Wine magazine’s Best New Chef of 2010 Missy Robbins, who cooked in Italy before founding her acclaimed Brooklyn restaurant Lilia earlier this year, will prepare a six-course dinner…
Before Good River Beer releases their new brew—an unnamed Weizebock wheat beer—you are invited to enjoy a decadent four-course meal. This beer-paired dinner will start with provolone fondue (paired with the American pilsner) and a greek greens salad matched with the Fu Fighter ale. Indulge in an elk au poivre and a Gunney black lager,…
This four-course, vegan meal will start with a seafood-inspired appetizer with oysters on the half shell and assorted vegan caviar and continue with a hearty portion of truffled mac and cheese, wild mushrooms, and micro greens. While finishing your meal with warm chamomile tea and dessert, enjoy the musical stylings of multiple bands including synth…
Start your holiday festivities early this year with an evening of fine cheeses and decadent chocolates from Sugarmill's executive chef and partner Ryan Witcher. For an extra 15 dollars, enjoy unlimited bubbles and house wine, plus live entertainment by local DJ and guitarist Eric David Castillo. Wed 5:30-7:30 p.m.; 8-10 p.m.
Tapping into the Italian tradition of a fish-filled meal the night before Christmas, Coperta is offering a seven-course seafood dinner all season long. Culminating on Christmas Eve, this family-style meal will offer sardine and fennel crostini, calamari and shrimp fritto misto, salt cod ravioli, monkfish rigatoni, linguini with mussels, wood-fired eel, and squid and chickpea…
Observe the nine-day procession of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem at this reverent celebration featuring live entertainment and a traditional Mexican menu. Enjoy all the festivities and culinary pleasures of this Mexican holiday in one evening as you treat your taste buds to Latigo’s delectable dishes, live music from the Talisman Trio and drink specials.…
This craft beer festivus designated for the rest of us—aka Denverites—offers brews from more than 50 local breweries including the Great Divide Brewing Company, Crazy Mountain Brewery, and Black Shirt Brewing Co. Taking place in a picturesque airplane hangar, this boozy event acts as an ode to Colorado's thriving beer scene.
This decadent meal brings the flavors of the sea to the Rocky Mountains. Though TBD typically focuses on locally sourced fare, this meal—which includes oysters adorned with bacon, truffles, and pickles; white chocolate scallops served with bacon and berries; and lobster and corn dumplings—draws inspiration from the chef Terence Rogers’s New England roots. Finish off…
The winter season iteration of the First Friday Art Walks on Santa Fe combines the weekend gallery-hopping event with the city’s trendiest meal. Stop in the more than 30 participating galleries, from Spark Gallery to Abecedarian Artists Books, to take in new artwork and bites of classic brunch items (including mimosas). While all edible items…
Live out your own Christmas Story with a Chinese feast this holiday season. This pop-up meal will include egg rolls, smoked salmon rangoons, fried rice, duck and vegetable lo mein, kung pao pastrami, and General Tso's chicken. Bonus: Screenings of holiday movies such as National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation and The Hebrew Hammer will play in…
The Fort Restaurant, known for delicious food and beautiful countryside scenery, is the ideal spot to enjoy a languorous Christmas Eve dinner. This three-course menu will include your choice of soup or salad and freshly baked bread, a buffalo prime rib au jus entree with horseradish, green beans, and mashed potatoes, and a vanilla rum…
Avoid the fuss of Christmas cooking this year and head over to Range for an indulgent four-course holiday meal. This feast features a roasted chestnut soup with apple butter; creme and pancetta; a spinach and endive salad with pomegranate, citrus, walnuts, and goat cheese; red wine braised short rib with confit carrots, porcinis and pomme…
Hungry well-wishers can expect plenty of cheer—and an abundance of food—at this sumptious holiday spread fit for a king. Guests will graze on delicacies from a meat carving station, a seafood tower, a build-your-own omelet table, a waffle station, and a DIY Bloody Mary cart with local hot sauces and a variety of garnishes. Sun…
Are you ready to take your culinary skills to the next level? Join one of The Cooking Studio’s top chefs, Scott Manning, for an intermediate cooking class covering knife, saute, roast, and sauce-making skills. As part of the Holiday Cooking Master Chef Series, the class will put your kitchen knacks to the test by ending…
Celebrate the late-season harvest of apples with an innovative six-course meal. By using every element of a duck—innards, bones, breast, and legs—chefs at TBD showcase the meat in a unique and complete way. Enjoy duck pâte with pickled apples; Knödle dumplings and duck broth; duck confit with brie and apple tortellini; crispy duck skin with…
In celebration of the last night of the Yule season, Orpheus Pagan Chamber Choir, a group within Denver's Pagan community, will perform traditional and non-traditional Yule carols and songs. Following the concert, enjoy a 10-course feast from Sweet Lorraine's Catering consisting of yule ham, Swedish meatballs, braised red cabbage, and black forest cake. Sat 6…
If a viewing of the intense thriller Brick and a decadent four-course meal paired with Stranahan’s whiskey isn’t enough to draw you to this event, an appearance from movie star Noah Segan surely is. Start with grilled oysters, horseradish lemon ice, green onions, and whiskey jalapeño gastrique paired with a Diamond Peak single malt whiskey,…
Join David George Gordon—aka. the "Bug Chef"—for a creepy-crawly five-course meal featuring edible insects of all shapes and sizes. In collaboration with Linger restaurant, Gordon has created a diverse menu of bug-inspired dishes, from waxworm quesadillas to a pear and ant salad. Proceeds benefit the Rocky Mountain Micro Ranch, the first and only edible insect…
Are you a foodie or a fashionista? At this clothing and culinary pop-up event, there’s no need to choose. Stop by Civic Center to munch on offerings from your favorite food trucks including Chuey Fu's, Roll It Up Sushi, and Still Smokin' before browsing wares from trendy fashion trucks such as Patterns & Pops and…
You’re probably used to oatmeal topped with fruits and nuts, sometimes accompanied with simple syrup or the occasional sprinkling of brown sugar. But at this community-focused event sponsored by Quaker Oatmeal, 128 unique oatmeal toppings await you (jalapeños and gummy bears included). After beginning your day with this hearty fare, head to the Quaker Oatmeal…
Counter the winter chill by warming up with award-winning red and green chili and local brews from breweries including Lumpy Ridge Brewery, Rock Cut brewery, and Wild Cider. The festival will include kid-friendly activities such as an arts and crafts booth, obstacle courses, and a Frozen-themed bounce house. Live music by Amplified Souls, Dixie Leadfoot,…
With groups of up to 14 members, this tasty three-hour tour offers an intimate look at five culinary destinations within walking distance of each other. While restaurants and meal options change with each trip, expect to be wooed by local favorites such as pretzel and Guinness sausage kabobs from Jack Quinn's and creamy lobster chowder…
Although this culinary weekend offers numerous food-related activities, such as snowshoeing and a gourmet lunch, they're all just a lead-up to the main epicurean event: the grand tasting. Celebrity guest chefs Hugh Acheson, Gabriel Kreuther, and Suzanne Tracht will collaborate with some of the best chefs in Beaver Creek to create the ultimate tasting experience.…
As part of the Wine and Foods with Local Chefs series, join chef Erick Skokan of Black Cat Farm Bistro as he prepares a decadent five-course meal paired neatly with BookCliff Vineyards wines. The menu includes country pork pate with a 2016 Viognier, mulefoot pork with a 2015 malbec, and chocolate dacquoise served with a…
The most exciting part of this four-day mountain getaway isn't the slew of renowned guest chefs (including Tobie Pottuck from Melbourne, Australia and Gabriel Kreuther from New York City), interactive cooking demonstrations, or hand-selected wines—it's the fact that you can customize your experience. With multiple events per day—including a Snowshoe and Gourmet Lunch, grand tasting,…
Swing, step, and slide your way around Dry Dock Brewing Company with professionals from The Ladies & Gentlemen dance troupe. After receiving a free swing dance lesson at the beginning of the evening, enjoy live jazz music by La Pompe Jazz band, sip brews and cocktails from the cash bar, and shop your way around…
Creating a four-course meal focused on the culinary stylings of Rome will have you feeling like a natural Italian. Prepare for an in-depth learning experience as a Cook Street School of Culinary Arts chef walks you through wine pairings for each course. You’ll leave knowing how to make pasta all'amatriciana, Roman-style hot house lamb, fried…
If you missed the Denver Summer Brew Fest, here’s another chance to quench your craft-beer thirst. More than 40 breweries from Colorado including Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project, Stem Ciders, and Breckenridge Brewery will be pouring tipples in commemorative souvenir glasses for guests. Listen to live music and enjoy food from local vendors at this…
You’ll be the judge at Wine Country Network’s first Pairsine food and distilled-spirit pairing competition. Seven duos of chefs and mixologists from Denver and surrounding cities will team up and use the top 10 winning spirits from the 2016 Denver International Spirits Competition to create one-of-a-kind cocktails to compliment tasty dishes. Participants can then sample…
Burger-lovers, rejoice. Larkburger, the Colorado burger joint, is celebrating Larkburger Love Day by giving away free burgers to local organizations such as the Downtown Denver Partnership, Goodwill, and UC Health, as a gesture of appreciation for their important work. Customers who wear green before heading to any 12 Larkburger locations today will receive a free…
This one-day class covering wine tasting, wine and food pairing, characteristics of major grape varieties, grape growing and winemaking, and an overview of local wines, is your first step toward becoming a certified sommelier. After passing the exit exam administered at the end of the day, you'll receive your Wine & Spirit Education Trust Level…
Satisfy your sweet tooth at this chocolate adventure in Olde Town Arvada. Samples will include scrumptious treats such as eclairs from Rheinlander’s Bakery, Petit Fours from La Patisserie Francaise, chocolate wine from Silver Vines, and chocolate whiskey from School House Kitchen and Libations. Take part in the Chocolate Treasure Hunt or venture to the Arvada…
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of Fruition, an authentic farm-to-table restaurant concept by Chef Alex Seidel. Former and current chefs will collaborate to create a seven-course communal dinner, which will begin with a champagne toast and appetizers such as a seeded pistachio crisp. Main courses include Nantucket Bay scallops with sea urchin custard and preserved apple…
Want to try something new this Valentine’s Day instead of the traditional “wine-and-dine?” Prepare a special dinner with your significant other with the help of the Cook Street School of Culinary Arts. Chef de Cuisine Cada Fabian will lead a Cooking with Cupid class that kicks off with a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine and…
Common Cause Catering and Local Relic are partnering with Catholic Charities to bring you another night of delicious food and beer pairings. This five-course meal benefits Catholic Charities' Life Skills & Career Development Center, which helps people in need of work find employment opportunities. Fri 5:30-10 p.m.
Sumptuous, fresh ingredients give this Valentine's Day dinner that little extra spark. The evening kicks off with the most classic of aphrodisiacs—oysters—served on a half shell alongside a mignonette granita, or with smoked and grilled octopus with candied Fresno peppers and blood orange. For the main course, star-crossed dinner guests can choose between buffalo strip…
You don't have to be an expert yogi or a craft beer aficionado to reap the benefits of this customizable workout class. After getting your zen on with instructor Samantha Lieurance of Yay Life Yoga, you can enjoy a medium cold brew from Zwei Brewing Company. Proceeds from the class benefit the Animal House, a…
Whether you like it dirty, dry, or straight up, the search for Denver’s best martini is on as 16 local bars and restaurants battle it out for the best cocktail. Expect food, drinks, and live music from funk band the Tent Show Kings. Roadhouse Hospitality will be serving food such as meatballs in Sriracha peach…
Did you know chocolate actually grows on trees? The cocoa pods hold the cocoa beans that give chocolate its rich flavor. Head to the Denver Botanic Gardens with your little ones to discover how a chocolate turns from seed to sweet. Family and Children’s Manager Melissa Gula will then hold tastings of different chocolates before…
At this seven-hour affair held at Longmont’s St. Vrain Cidery, breakfast truly is the most important meal of the day—or at least the most delicious. Stop by for a full day of morning specialties, such as French toast, breakfast nachos, and steak-n-eggs, paired with various spiced and hopped ciders. Sat 2-9 p.m.
With more than 200 bottles of wine from around the world and multiple local restaurants, art galleries, and concerts, the entertainment options at this festival are endless. The 21-and-up-event is happening rain or shine, so don't let a little weather stop you from sipping, tasting, and enjoying local and global delicacies.
If you're looking for an event to honor the explosive craft beer scene in Denver, you've found it at this boozy Boulder festival. There will be a wide-range of brew styles—IPAs, porters, stouts, and hard ciders—to fit any palate from around 50 different breweries. Sip tipples from locals including Upslope Brewing Company, Pug Ryan's Brewing…
Bring your appetite to this Louisiana Bayou—inspired cook-off featuring some of the best gumbo in the Centennial State. Enter your dish for the chance to win an award (all entrants are provided with a tent, two tables, linens, tasting cups, spoons, and napkins), and prepare your gumbo as you listen to live music by the…
Take a guided mile-long cross-country skiing adventure from the Crested Butte Nordic Center to the Yurt, where a four-course meal accompanied by cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks awaits. Guests will enjoy live music, libations courtesy of Crested Butte’s Montaya Distillery and Elevation Beer Company and a decadent meal—made by local catering company Tim Egglehof Chef Services—that…
The best way to warm up on cold winter days is from the inside out—which means a few swigs of whiskey are in order. A variety of distilleries, including Bear Creek, Black Canyon, and Leopold Bros., will offer tipples at this cozy booze fest, while alternative band Panda and People serenades the crowd with catchy…
Southeast Asian dining is no longer reserved for street carts and open-stall markets after this authentic cooking class. You’ll learn classic Thai cooking techniques and craft well-known dishes such as pad thai and sticky rice. Bonus: Bring home recipes for tom kha gai (spicy chicken soup with coconut milk), roasted red chile sauce, and panang…
Give back to your local community by celebrating a classic Colorado food: Rocky Mountain oysters (proceeds will benefit Eagle County 4-H clubs). In addition to the selection of top-grade oysters, this fry will also offer beef, pasta salad, rolls, and a large assortment of homemade desserts. The family-friendly event will include a bouncy castle and…
Five winemakers, five chefs, and five heritage pigs unite to bring you a pork experience unlike any other. Guests will be greeted with an assortment of beverages including a punch, Manhattan cocktails, and wine; small bites such as artisan cheese and bacon; and up to six rich heritage pork entrees from each participating chef. The…
Brewers from across the Centennial State and beyond will divide into teams with the mission of bringing you brews that are truly unique. With more than 100 participating breweries, this festival will boast more than 75 different beers that you can spend your day sampling. Prepare for unlimited samples, food vendors, and live music. Sat…
At this sedate afternoon, traditional tea and crumpets will take on an Asian twist. Between sips of oolong (which tastes like a combination of black and green tea and offers numerous health benefits), guests will enjoy an assortment of tea-infused dim sum delicacies. Sat-Sun, times vary.
Take sushi night into the comfort of your own kitchen after attending this hands-on cooking class. Learn the art of making both sushi rolls and nigiri sushi from Zengo's master sushi chef. For an extra $15, attendees can opt for sake pairings, in which a sake sommelier will perfectly match the tipple to every roll.…
Enjoy a weekend of food education at what event organizers have dubbed an "unconference." Speakers from food rescue groups based in Boulder, Denver, and Colorado Springs will discuss the importance of providing access to healthy sustenance. You'll learn about new solutions for tackling food waste and the challenge of feeding a growing population—all while taking…
Treat yourself to fresh seafood at this Cajun-inspired food festival. Adventurous eaters can enter an oyster-eating or shucking contest, while foodies sample gumbo, jambalaya, and crayfish. As you dine, sip a chilled Oyster Stout from Odell Brewing Co. and enjoy live music performed by the funky Guerilla Fanfare brass band. Proceeds benefit the Boulder County…
Help out the homeless and attend Sacred Heart House’s first-ever fundraiser at Black Shirt Brewing Co. Sip a free beer (try the Semitone Seasonal IPA) and snack on farm-to-table fare from Farmer in the Hive. After your meal, enter the raffle for a chance to win local prizes such as fitness passes for Core Power Yoga, gift certificates…
Bring your appetite to this six-course dinner made by some of the finest cooks in Colorado. Six chefs from Larkspur, Frasca Food and Wine, Boxcar Restaurant and Bar, Black Cat Farm Table Bistro, and River and Woods will each create one appetizer and one main course. The evening kicks off with a cocktail reception replete with hors d'oeuvre…
It’s been 84 years since Prohibition was repealed, and there's no better way to celebrate than with an ice cold brew from The Post Chicken and Beer. Order a pint of the Achtertuin Seizoen farmhouse ale, a fruity drink with a tart finish that will complement the weekend’s 70-plus-degree weather. Bonus: Enter a raffle for a chance to win 52 free beers…
If you’re a fan of the new Hotbox Roasters Coffee Beer Doughnuts in RiNo, don’t miss the chance to visit their new roasting location in Longmont. Start the day by sampling the Oskar Blues Coffee IPA, which has berry flavors and an earthy aroma, or the new Nitro Cold Brew, a sweet and smooth roast…
You've gone to plenty of beer and cheese events—this week, try pairing suds with comedy instead. At this release party, try the tangy new ACH IPA, a brew created through a partnership between local comedian Adam Cayton-Holland and Ratio Beerworks. As you savor the lemony beverage, watch its namesake (and several other local side-splitters) deliver a hilarious stand-up performance. —Image courtesy of Ratio Beerworks
At this party themed around cheese and beer, versions of your favorite childhood comfort food will be served alongside your favorite adult nightcap. Local breweries such as Alpine Dog Brewery and Odell Brewing Company will join cheese purveyors including New World Cheese, the Melt, and So Damn Gouda. Don't miss the live auction featuring prizes such as…
At this pairing event, you don't have to choose between your two favorite beverages. Four delectable courses made by chef Justin Burdick will be served alongside beer samples of Horse & Dragon Brewing Company as well as seasonal wines. Start with a refreshing fruit salad paired with Perambulation Ale or Big Easy Chenin Blanc, then savor gamey Colorado lamb…
The Titanic might have met its fate at the bottom of the ocean 105 years ago, but you can still experience its culinary delights at this lavish meal. Inside a Victorian mansion, executive chef Herb Kettelson will prepare an authentic 11-course recreation of the meal that was served in first class on the final evening of…
At this culinary fund-raiser, taste more than one hundred different wines—red, white, ice, and port samples will be available—to support a great cause. Start off with cheese appetizers and a main course prepared by the Olive Garden, then finish the evening with a chocolate dessert. Proceeds benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
Expand your cooking skills with plant-based cuisine. Explore raw cooking and make all kinds of animal-free dishes from pizza to smoothies. Vegan chef and author Mark Reinfeld, who hosts this traveling cooking class, will walk you through each recipe step before you taste your creations. Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Whether you're a wine connoisseur or an environmentalist, this weeklong celebration of natural vino might pique your interest. Start with a sustainability-focused tasting on Wednesday night, during which you can sample more than 200 varieties of red and white while chatting with vintners about the importance of ethical sourcing in the industry. Attendees can also…
The battle for the best Mile High City mai tai is on. Cheer on bartenders from Linger and Low Country Kitchen as they compete to impress judges Cole St. Peter of the Sazerac Company, Adrift beverage manager Maggie Yarbrough, and tiki glass designer Pop Tiki. During the competition, spectators can munch on island-inspired bites, such as Kona…
Bird is the word at the Source’s latest pop-up shop. Stop by to taste acclaimed San Francisco chef Dueki Hong’s Korean fried chicken (popcorn chicken made with kimchi salt and hot gochujang) and kimchi fried rice with chicharron. Pair your bites with RiNo Yacht Club’s special frozen banana daiquiri served in a Korean to-go container.…
Here’s to a night full of beer and barbecue for a good cause. Moe’s Original Bar B Que will supply the food; beer will come from Oskar Blues Brewery, Great Divide Brewing Company, and Joyride Brewing Company; and blues band Delta Sonic will set the laid back mood at an old automobile garage north of Denver.…
This casual sit-down dinner delivers food, wine, and spirits from the western side of the Centennial state. Tastes and beverages will be by Horsefly Brewing Company, Woody Creek Cellars, Daveto’s Italian Restaurant, and High West Distillery and Saloon. Proceeds benefit Delta County Young Life, a youth Christian group. Sat 5-8 p.m.
Tommyknockers Brewery, Raquelitas Tortillas, and Food Services of America have combined forces to create a scrumptious menu you won’t want to miss. Six dishes, including shrimp scampi, steak tacos, and macaroni and cheese with crab, will each be paired with one beer. Proceeds benefit Easter Seals, a nonprofit that will send 20 children with disabilities…
Learn more about (and sample) unpasteurized milk cheeses like gruyère and parmigiano at this inaugural celebration of Raw Milk Cheese Appreciation Day. Experts at local shop Cheese & Provisions will teach you about a traditional method in which cheese makers use bacteria from local dairies' raw milk to create particular regional flavors, and then you can taste some of the Sunnyside cheesemongers' favorites. Before…
Denver’s craft beer scene is helping a family in need. Twenty breweries, including Boggy Draw Brewery and Dead Hippie Brewing, will pour sudsy beverages at this neighborly charity. Make sure to try Dry Dock Brewing Co.’s latest IPA or the new amber lager from Resolute Brewing Company. If you get hungry, nosh on fare from Wong Way Veg,…
Sip a craft beer in support of the planet at this rocking jamboree. You’ll enjoy live music from Americana string bands the Brothers Comatose, Chain Station, and the Drunken Hearts, plus drinks from 15 local breweries including 4 Noses Brewing Company, Boulder Beer, and Left Hand Brewing Company. Proceeds benefit various local organizations that safeguard…
153 years ago, buck beers (slightly more alcoholic versions of a German-style bock beer) were so popular that Colorado breweries celebrated them at a festival every spring. This year, Tivoli Brewing Co. and 14 other local breweries will host a new event to resurrect the tradition. Taste suds such as the Maiden's Kiss Maibock from Loveland's Grimm Brothers Brewhouse and a Doppelbock from Einstok…
Let a North Denver brewery transport you to the Low Countries of Western Europe during this new festival celebrating Belgian beer. The host, Bruz Beers, and nine other local establishments (including De Steeg Brewing and Crooked Stave) will offer witbiers and farmhouse ales to complement food-truck fare from Street Frites Denver and Basic Kneads Pizza. As the food and booze transport you to Brussel, a…
At this interactive class, experience a Japanese-style happy hour. Chef Sarah Kendrick will teach you the techniques you need to create several small plates typically found at a Japanese gastropub, or izakaya. Sip on a complimentary glass of chilled sake while making crunchy kara age (Japanese fried chicken) and pork gyoza, then savor a scoop of green tea ice cream.
If you're debating on where to go to brunch this weekend, we'll help you make the decision—at the Nickel, you can play with puppies before you eat. Hang out with adoptable pups, and donate $5 to Lifeline Puppy Rescue in exchange for a complimentary barrel-aged Manhattan or Negroni. Then tuck in to a delectable spread…
At this suburban food lover’s festival, taste popular dishes from Centennial’s Uncorked Kitchen and scrumptious cupcakes from Colorado Springs–based Sweet Celebrations. Then savor an apricot blonde ale from local Blue Spruce Brewing Company while you bid on Broncos memorabilia and lift tickets at the silent auction. Proceeds benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association. .
Celebrate this Denver dillery's fifth birthday with a local meal that will satisfy your pickle cravings. Start by grabbing a Bloody Mary made with the Real Dill's signature drink mix or trying pickle-and-beer pairing combinations suggested by the Colorado Pickle and Beer Society. Food trucks such as Quiero Arepas and the Ethiopian Food Truck will also serve dinner to those seeking…
To celebrate Cinco de Mayo, Lola Coastal Mexican will invite five Denver chefs to create a scrumptious pork-centric meal. Sample meat from Duroc pigs cooked six different ways, including Old Major chef Amos Watts’s porchetta with a pig skin pineapple salsa and Jax’s Fish House chef Sam Pepper's burnt-honey-and-citrus carnitas. Wash down your dinner with a $5…
Celebrate women's accomplishments at this delicious dinner catered by the top female chefs in the Mile High City. Taste mouthwatering dishes—including pesto-and-parmesan arancini (stuffed rice balls) from Spuntino’s Cindhura Reddy and jerk tri-tip sliders made by the WOW Cafe's Carrie Shores—alongside suds from Great Divide Brewing Co. After the meal, bid on items such as a trip to Disneyland…
Instead of buying Mom a box of chocolates, treat her to an entire festival devoted to the sweet treat. Sample decent candies from 60 Colorado chocolatiers and sweet shops, including the Denver-based Fudge Ladies and House of Stewart Confections. Don't miss the Friday evening concert by jazz vocalist Hazel Miller: While the Denver-based singer belts out her sultry tunes,…
Get the two things you really want out of brunch—booze and bacon—at this indulgent festival. Denver's second iteration of this pork-centric event features bacon-infused food from nearly three dozen local restaurants (including Hearth & Dram and Il Porcellino Salumi) and beer from more than 80 area breweries, ranging from the classic (Odell Brewing Co., Oskar Blues…
For 12 days, Strange Craft Beer Company's Breakfast Grapefruit IPA and Living the Dream Brewing Company's Empty Trophy Case IPA have been locked in a battle—and that battle ends here. As a friendly fundraiser for the National Sports Center for the Disabled, the two breweries are competing to see which location can sell more of its signature IPA.…
Vote for your favorite cheat-day treats at this indulgent event. Try classic pastries from local favorites Habit Doughnut Dispensary and LaMar’s Donuts, then wash down your desserts with spirits from Breckenridge Distillery and State-38 Distilling. Proceeds benefit Minds Matter of Denver, a nonprofit that provides mentors for at-risk high school students.
Hosted by drag queens Gabriella But’zin and Lala Shearz, this contest gives bartenders from local watering holes five rounds to wow the judges. Competitors will battle to craft, you guessed it, the most creative shot during the “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” round. Between drinks, attendees can refuel with classic American fare from Hamburger…
You don't have to wait until Hickory Ash (the Kevin Taylor Restaurant Group's new meat-focused eatery) opens in Broomfield this June to get an exclusive taste of its hearty menu. At this preview dinner, sample hors d'oeuvres such as duck duck goose (duck, foie gras, and gooseberries) as well as delectable entrees like a braised short…
Barbecues aren’t complete without a brew in hand, and at this backyard soiree, you can choose from more than 20. Load up on barbecued pork from Frank’s Bar-B-Que and starchy sides from Spudz food truck, then sample unlimited pours from 10 Colorado breweries. (We recommend the new Mezcal Pale from Denver-based Strange Craft Beer Company.) Proceeds benefit the National Sports Center for…
Whether you’re a Louisiana native or simply a fan of Cajun cuisine, you can show off your cooking chops in one of three categories—jambalaya, gumbo, or etouffee. The top three versions of each dish will win swag from Chain Reaction Brewing Company. As you snack on the spicy spread, enjoy live music from rock singer…
To celebrate the opening of its new classroom-style event space, Hotel Teatro will host an interactive mixology class. Bar manager Victoria Errio will help you create modern spins on two classic drinks—a martini with blue-cheese-stuffed olives and a Manhattan with barrel-aged whiskey from Denver distillery Leopold Bros.
Ordinarily, watching a fight between fowl is frowned upon, but this brawl is a bit more civilized. Denver's best poultry chefs (Brider, Yardbird, and Fire on the Mountain are among the 40-restaurant list) face off for the finest edible chicken honors in this throwdown, with titles awarded for the best barbecue, fried chicken, wings, and overall dish.…
If you want to incorporate more healthy recipes into your diet but aren't sure how to make veggies taste good, take some pointers from this plant-focused menu. Follow the expert knowledge of chef Paul C. Reilly (Beast & Bottle) and guest chef Joshua McFadden from Portland’s Ava Gene as they share à la carte seasonal dishes from McFadden’s latest…
“Hygge” is the Danish word for cozy, and that’s the perfect way to describe the atmosphere at this intimate dinner party. Relax on a sheepskin-clad bench at a communal dinner table as Kevin Grossi (the executive chef for the Regional) cooks a five-course meal over an open fire. On the menu is a whole grilled Colorado…
Thanks to this pop-up burger bar, you can count on eating at least one plant-based meal this weekend. Boulder husband-and-wife chefs Ryan and Lindsay Cunningham will serve a healthy lunch of Beyond Meat vegan burgers, RollingGreens millet tots, and Health-Ade carrot-blood orange kombucha ($8). Proceeds benefit Metro Caring, a Denver nonprofit organization that provides hunger relief to low-income…
Sip a mojito (or two) at this outdoor jamboree, during which more than 30 boozy purveyors will pour summer cocktails. As you taste a blueberry mule from Prairie Organic Spirits or a watermelon fizz from Spring 44 Distilling and sample pizza from Basic Kneads food truck, jam to tracks spun by DJ Steve Medina. Proceeds benefit the Posner…
Kick off the first Louisville farmer’s market of the season by taking a culinary journey through the town's best restaurants. At the food festival, enjoy bites from more than 15 local eateries, including Pica’s Mexican Taqueria, Nothing Bundt Cakes, and Sushi Yoshi. Then wash down your feast with brews from Louisville’s Gravity Brewing and Crystal Springs Brewing…
During this hands-on class, practice the classic Spanish cooking techniques that’ll wow friends and family at your first outdoor dinner party of the year. With the help of Sur La Table chefs, you’ll learn to perfectly toast calasparra rice and start a pepper-and-tomato base for two different paellas: one with chicken and chorizo and one…
Raise a toast to summer at this beer extravaganza. Try unlimited seasonal samples from 19 local breweries, including Denver's the Intrepid Sojourner Beer Project and Briar Common Brewery & Eatery as well as Aurora-based Launch Pad Brewery. If you get hungry, grab West African–inspired bites from the Pikene Grill, Asian fusion cuisine from the Ginger Pig, or Venezuelan fare from Arepas House.…
At this sudsy, ’80s-themed party, celebrate nearly 20 of the newest arrivals to Colorado’s craft beer scene. Breweries such as Bierstadt Lagerhaus, Banded Oak Brewing Company, and Call to Arms Brewing Company will pour their two best brews. Make sure to dress up in your best ’80s attire for a chance to win a swag…
There's no need to choose one brewpub to spend your Saturday night when you can sip suds from 10 Centennial State beermakers at this outdoor festival. Savor delicious hors d'oeuvre, from salted pretzels to bacon-wrapped dates, and then wash down your snacks with brews from Durango-based Ska Brewing and Denver's Renegade Brewing Company. While you nosh, enjoy an acoustic performance…
Denver chefs—including Mimi Banish of Osage Cafe and Anthony Smith of Beast & Bottle—will face off for the title of wing king (or queen) at this delicious showdown. After sampling their takes on the game-day favorite, such as Asian-glazed duck wings, cast your vote for the people’s choice award. In addition, hungry carnivores can battle each other…
At this elegant dinner, you'll have the chance to eat and drink a feast made with Colorado-grown produce. A Notte chef Jeffrey Deakyne will use vegetables from the Boulder Farmers Market and Denver's the GrowHaus to create a four-course meal of grilled octopus and homemade tagliatelle. As you savor each dish, try a complementary wild-yeast brew from Black Project Spontaneous & Wild…
You don’t have to choose where to go to dinner, thanks to this smorgasbord of small plates from local eateries. Mile High restaurateurs will serve delicious bites, such as Hearth &Dram’s beef tartare and barbecue sliders from Colorado Pub Company, in an attempt to impress the judges. A panel of five that includes Eater Denver…
Pitmasters from the Midwest to the West Coast will show off their smoking skills at Frisco’s biggest festival of the year. Barbecue lovers can sample everything from Texas-style brisket to Kansas City burnt ends while sipping beers from Frisco-based Backcountry Brewery and Outer Range Brewing Co. Between snacks, cheer on contestants in the Firefighter Cook-Off…
Embark on a culinary safari and taste sample dishes from more than 55 local restaurants and breweries at this tasting. Try Panzano’s lobster saladon endive or banana pudding with caramel sauce from Wheat Ridge's Post Oak Hall, and wash your small bites down with a Roadie Grapefruit Radler from Great Divide Brewing Company. While you snack,…
At this exclusive wood-fired cooking demonstration, 30 chefs will gather to create a one-of-a-kind feast. Theo Adley from the RiNo Yacht Club and Blackbelly’s Hosea Rosenberg will grill heritage-breed meats (think: whole-roasted pig, chicken, and sturgeon) in front of a hungry crowd. Wash down the hearty meal with tipples from a tropical tiki bar. Proceeds…
At this hoppier alternative to a wine and cheese party, pair four brews from Denver's Alpine Dog Brewing Company—a grapefruit IPA, a Belgian golden, a Belgian dubbel, and a cherry chili chocolate stout —with savory offerings from the Truffle Cheese Shop, such as a fleur de maquis French sheep's milk cheese and a Gorgonzola from Italy.…
During this educational workshop, learn to transform homegrown produce into simple comfort food. With guidance from chef David Cordona, use seasonal veggies and fruits to make a tasty rabe and turnip frittata as well as a spinach salad with roasted strawberry vinaigrette.
Cinco de Mayo may be over, but it's not too late to chow down on the city's best tacos and tequilas. More than 50 local restaurants—including Los Chingones, Work & Class, and Tacos Tequila Whiskey—bring their best foldable Mexican fare to this showcase. People's choice and judge's choice honors will be given out to the…
You won’t need to order takeout after learning how to make these Asian-inspired bites. During this class, chef Dan Widmann will demonstrate proper dumpling steaming and folding techniques and share three filling recipes: tangy roast pork, spicy shrimp, and fresh vegetable. At the end of the lesson, feast on your creations while the chef answers…
Beers, mountain views, gourmet food, live music and indie movies—it doesn't get more “Colorado” than this. During this new summer event at Copper Mountain, guests can sample as many “big beers” (we’re talking rich, high alcohol content brew) as their heart desires, while pairing their beverage with gourmet grilled cheese samplings. As you chow down…
If you consider yourself a craft-brew aficionado (or just a beer-fan at best), chances are you’ve had yourself at least one or two Dale’s Pale Ales. Recognizable by its red, silver and blue can, this Colorado original is getting a funky facelift—and you can celebrate it. Revamped for its fifteenth year of existence, Dale’s Pale…
Barbecue and beers — it doesn't get any more American than that. Denver’s own Tender Belly pork is on the menu (prepared by chef Matt Kender) so guests can feast on roasted pork with housemade IPA barbecue sauce, smoked mac and cheese, and red ale baked beans, while sipping on a Blood Orange IPA or…
Test your food critic skills at Denver’s first-annual surf and turf chef throwdown. Going head-to-head in this gourmet five-course meal battle, the chef from each iconic restaurant will showcase their best dishes, leaving the voting for top restaurant/chef up to the guests. Come hungry and ready to drink: diners will be provided with 10 different…
Unwind this weekend with brews, fried chicken, and laughs. Start with a trip to Bruz Beers and grab a pint of Onyx Stout (a rich dark Belgian-style stout) with head brewer Charlie Gottenkieny. Then pile into the party bus with comedic beer cicerone David Hanan as he drives you to the Comedy RoomRoom to watch…
You’ve sampled the refreshing fermented beverage at bars around town—now try making it yourself during this informative workshop. The owner of Edgewater’s Happy Leaf Kombucha, Jenni Lyons, will teach you the tools you need to craft the probiotic drink as well as tips on infusing your kombucha with herbal flavors like cranberry-lavender. Proceeds benefit the…
Spend a charming evening on a 1,500-acre ranch during the inaugural installment of this supper series. Start by taking a farm tour to get a behind-the-scenes look at the way meat animals (think: grass-fed Highland cattle and heritage-breed pigs) are raised, then enjoy a five-course dinner featuring oxtail-and-mushroom tartan as well as brisket with red…
If the city creates a new urban park and you don't christen it with a cold craft brew, is it even really there? This fête celebrates Ballpark's latest green space with a long roster of Great Divide brews (including Denver Pale Ale, Titan, and Yeti), lawn games, and live music from Kitty Crimes and the Still…
If you’ve been wanting to get a taste of Colorado’s beer scene, here’s your chance. Picture this: the rushing Arkansas river, stunning mountain vistas, and more than 75 Centennial breweries to choose from. Sample 300 kinds of draughts such as Champagne Saison from Upslope Brewing Company of Boulder. If you get hungry, pick from tasty…
At this spirit-centric event, whiskey lovers and gin hounds alike can enjoy their drink of choice. Sample up to five tasters from 30 Centennial State distilleries such as Vapor Distillery, Spirit Hound Distillers, and Anvil Distillery, then grab a complimentary cocktail (try the lavender gin lemonade) made with local booze. Each purveyor will also offer…
Reward your taste buds with Cho 77’s tantalizing Asian-style street food and Denver’s own Ratio Beerworks at this delicious dim sum and beer supper. Join executive chef Ryan Gorby and Ratio Beerworks head brewer Jason zumBrunnen as they take you through a five-course prix fixe meal complete with beer pairings. We’re most excited about the…
Attention, foodies! You will need all five senses to fully appreciate the biggest culinary event Denver has ever hosted.The Mile-High City takes center stage in the international food world this weekend as thousands will pour into Denver to meet this star-studded list of attendees from near (Rioja’s Jen Jasinski, Mercantile Dining & Provision’s Alex Seidel)…
When it comes to finding dishes from Eastern Europe and beyond, options in Denver are limited. This Saturday, enjoy a home-cooked meal from parishioners at the Holy Transfiguration of Christ Cathedral in Globeville. Grab a plate of chicken and lamb kebabs with a side of couscous, or try the Serbian sampler made of potato and…
If you’re looking for a way to unwind this weekend, relax with the perfect duet: jazz and wine. Sip on local wines from Carlson Vineyards and Grande River while admiring Independence and Tenderfoot Mountains. Indulge in delicious pairings such as the “Willy Wonka Wild Wine Ride” where Ashley Rowe of Constellation Brands will pair wine…
Before you’re serenaded by saxophonists at the Keystone Wine and Jazz Festival, satisfy your sweet tooth at a hearty brunch. Savor Ruffino prosecco mimosas while you sample mouthwatering pancakes topped with homemade hazelnut spreads or cinnamon-spiced apples (compliments of Keystone’s Black Diamond Catering). To round out the meal, don’t forget to add a side of…
Kick off this Italian feast by tasting tipples from Firestone’s Wild Cider and Broomfield’s Wonderland Brewing Co. After bidding on Sur La Table cooking classes in a silent auction, watch chefs from Balisteri Vineyards grill peach-glazed pork loin and wood-fired pizzas for your main course. Proceeds benefit CASA, a Broomfield nonprofit that advocates for victims…
Take your palate on a culinary road trip while enjoying exciting musical performances at the zoo. Attendees can choose from 12 Denver food trucks such as OG Burgers, Roll It Up Sushi, and Arepas House. Plus, receive one complimentary Great Divide Brewing Co.’s Roadie Grapefruit Radler or Denver Pale Ale. Don’t miss the animal demonstrations…
Beer aficionado Kyle Hollingsworth, the keyboardist for the popular Boulder band String Cheese Incident, invites you to a private performance where you can taste brews, bites, and ice cream. New this year, Kyle's Heady Yeti Caramel Heath is made with Great Divide Brewing Co. Yeti Stout, Sweet Cow ice cream, caramel, and Heath toffee chunks.…
Chef Tussaint McPherson, formerly of Colorado Springs’ Broadmoor Hotel, will prepare his dishes al fresco at this dinner highlighting local and seasonal ingredients. Before the meal, savor a summer cocktail while you ride in an antique wagon around the farm to meet its furry residents (be sure to say hello to miniature horse Little Henry).…
Sure, you could fight your way into a one-square-foot patio space at Avanti Food & Beverage—but we'd recommend adding a little luxury to your outdoor dining experience. Swanky eateries including Rioja, TAG, and Bistro Vendome extend their fresh-air seating areas into the street during this traffic-stopping evening, creating an outdoor foodie's paradise that stretches throughout…
Here’s your chance to try Colfax Avenue’s treasure trove of eateries. At this block party, the ticket price includes all the sights, smells, and eats from 20 restaurants and breweries. Try Denver Biscuit Company’s famed biscuit sandwiches, or grab a bowl of tikka masala from the recently opened Saucy Bombay, the sister-restaurant of Bombay Clay…
Skip the blue Kraft box—thanks to this cheesy contest, you can taste more elegant versions of your favorite comfort food. Summit County restaurants (including Endo’s Adrenaline Cafe and Jack’s Slopeside Grill & Bar) battle to create the tastiest version, which means you can try Cajun-style macaroni with crawfish or applewood-smoked brisket mac-and-cheese. Still hungry? Enter…
The heat is on between 16 Denver restaurants seeking the title of Best Burger in Colorado. At the competition’s new spacious outdoor digs, try mouthwatering burgers such as Cherry Cricket’s “Fire Burger,” a homage to the firefighters who rescued the restaurant from being burned down. Cast your vote for People’s Choice, or watch judges Josh…
With over twenty food options, you're sure to find a meal to satisfy your barbecue cravings at this Five Points festival. Dig into a pulled pork sandwich from Big G's BBQ or ribs made by Rolling Smoke Bar-B-Que, then wash it down with a pint of the neighborhood’s best suds from Spangalang Brewery or Black…
Day drinking is great and all, but 8 p.m. hangovers? Not so much. Mitigate that problem (somewhat) with this fête dedicated to the low-ABV world of session beers. The day's roster features sessions from 51 mostly local breweries, including Odell's Easy Street and 14er's Key Lime Cream Ale. When you're not pounding back—er, politely sipping—easy-to-drink…
If you’re a fan of Jax Fish Houses’ sustainable seafood approach, here’s another reason to love them. On National Oyster Day, Jax is shucking free oysters for the first 100 customers at the Denver, Glendale, Boulder, and Fort Collins locations. Guests will receive six free Emersum oysters on the half shell, along with a mignonette…
At this elegant wine-focused festival, celebrate your favorite vino the Colorado way: at more than 6,000 feet. Be sure to attend the tasting event, where 100-plus wines sourced from the Sierra Nevadas to the Swiss Alps are available for sampling. Then check out Friday’s lunch to savor modern French fare from Steamboat Springs’ Harwigs restaurant…
If you’re looking to incorporate more seafood in your diet (without overspending at swanky restaurants), learning to cook shellfish at this introductory workshop is a good place to start. In class, the Gourmet Spoon executive chef Dan Witherspoon will teach you how to prepare fresh coastal dishes, such as pan-seared scallops, oven-roasted salmon, and Jamaican…
Twenty-plus Mile High City brewmasters will come together under one roof at this charitable beer festival. Sample refreshing suds like the Lightshine Radler (a lager with raspberry lemonade) from Wibby Brewing as well as a grapefruit IPA made by Broomfield’s Nighthawk Brewery, and grab a snack from local food trucks. While you imbibe, check out…
Get your comfort-food stomach ready. This celebration of Polish culture features folk dance and song performances, kids' activities, and a vendor fair, but the main draw is the Eastern European eats. Everything from kielbasa and stuffed cabbage leaves to pastries and imported Polish beers is available for purchase at the fest, and dumpling lovers are…
If you’ve always wanted to try Cherry Creek’s posh new restaurants, here’s your chance to go to more than 15 of them. Dines such as Quality Italian, Departure, and Enstrom Candies will be open for foodies to peruse and try small bites. Samples will also be accompanied with local wine and spirit pairings such as…
Get away from the city this Saturday for an afternoon packed with family-friendly outdoor activities and local brews. First, take advantage of the free shuttle from Lincoln Park in Greeley for a 20-minute drive to the Fritzler Corn Maze. When you arrive, head for the pedal go-carts or virtual reality skiing. Attendants can also compete…
Thanks to this rooftop soiree, you don’t have to search for the restaurant with the perfect patio: You’ll be dining at at 10 al fresco eateries. Sip seasonal suds from Denver’s Strange Craft Brewery while eating your way through small bites from Habit Doughnut Dispensary, Blue Island Oyster Bar, and Tamayo. Proceeds benefit the National…
Skip the backyard barbecue and try Colorado’s best gourmet sliders during this two-day competition. Fourteen Colorado restaurateurs, including Telluride-based former champ Steamies Burger Bar, will battle to become the Centennial State’s burger master. While you taste each grilled treat, listen to a live ska and reggae show by Front Range group the Alcapones, then judge…
Learn all the perfect pickling techniques at this hands-on class. Tour the Real Dill’s facilities and then discover how to make a quick pickle brine and can cucumbers like a pro. After the lesson, enjoy a seasonal lunch of sandwiches and pasta made with tangy pickled vegetables. Proceeds benefit the GrowHaus, a nonprofit focused on…
Hurry and snag a ticket before they’re gone at this typically sold-out brewfest. Get the latest samples from more than 30 Front Range breweries such as Wonderland Brewery, Finkel & Garf Craft Beer, and Wild Woods Brewery. If you get hungry, grab an lechon bowl (slow-cooked pork, black beans, and plantains) from Arepas Caribbean, scratch-made…
You don’t have to go to the Western slope this weekend for your Palisade peach fix. Choose from all the peach helpings you want such as Huckleberry pies or cobbler, or take some to make your own at home with a fresh batch of organic Palisade peaches from Morton’s, Red Fox Run, and Tate orchards.…
This Sunday just got better with instructional yoga, a free brew, and poke bowls made with sustainable and fresh ingredients. Bring your mat to Hogshead Brewery for a relaxing yoga session and receive a complimentary pint of a fruity Finley's Farmhouse Saison or Etta's hopped grapefruit ale. Pair it with a bite to eat from…
Trump-inspired tiki drinks and Cosmos on dry ice, step aside. This evening is devoted to the classics. Local bartenders including Alex Daniluk of Ste. Ellie and Jesse Bowen of Occidental will whip up their takes on 100-year-old recipes for this contest–think: Old Fashioneds and Sazeracs alongside obscure picks like the rum-based Mary Pickford or the gin-based Bee's Knees.…
October is over a month away but that doesn’t mean it isn’t too early to celebrate this popular German festival with a weekend of food and beer. Dress up in your favorite lederhosen and dirndls, and come feast on homemade cuisine by chef Walter Neuhold of Styria Catering with a traditional German beer. After, treat…
If you’re looking for something a little heartier than wine and cheese, this indulgent culinary festival is your best bet. On Thursday, savor a four-course, pork-centric meal made by chefs at the Quandary Grille, then attend Friday’s tasting to try more small bites (Tender Belly bacon, anyone?) and bourbon pours from over 25 distilleries. Proceeds…
Put on your best cocktail attire for this delicious spread that benefits Denver youth. Munch on hors d’oeuvres while bidding on more than 100 silent auction items such as a weekend stay in New Orleans. After, enjoy a menu of grilled Palisade peach salad, pan-seared cod, braised short ribs, and a dessert trio of miniature…
Pair your food with live opera tunes in a lax setting for a new kind of sensory experience. Purchase food from the Ginger Pig food truck, who is preparing Asian-inspired cuisine with organic produce from Isabelle Farm. Sit down on the porch and let Opera on Tap Colorado serenade you with their song of choice.…
Put that "Brunch So Hard" tank top in your closet to good use. Dozens of local brunch favorites—including Brazen, Telegraph, and Revelry Kitchen—will be on hand for this ode to the mid-morning meal, serving up their signature dishes alongside bloody marys and bottomless mimosas. Eat and drink your way through the restaurants' booths and rest…
The source of ingredients for your meal isn’t a mystery at this farm-to-table supper. Executive chef Carrie Grenier of Sugar Pine Catering uses just-harvested produce from the venue’s garden (think: heirloom tomatoes, fairy tale eggplants, and sweet peppers) to craft her delicious menu. Proceeds from alcohol sales at the event benefit the Southern Mutts Rescue…
OK, so you can figure out that cheddar goes with Chardonnay. How about marrying crab cakes and an IPA? This culinary competition challenges 20-plus local chefs and brewers—in duos ranging from Little Machine Beer and Avelina to Caution: Brewing Company and Cho 77—to create the city's best beer-and-bite combo. Judges (including 5280's own Denise Mickelsen)…
If you’re gearing up for a culinary adventure at Denver’s Food and Wine Festival, don’t miss this elegant six-course dinner that’s hosted on the bridge behind Coohills Restaurant and Bar. Dine on dishes from the fine and talented Elise Wiggins (Cattivella), Frank Bonanno (Bonanno Concepts), Daniel Asher (River and Woods), Lon Symensma (Cho 77), and…
Explore artisanal markets, taste freshly made pasta, and sip both Italian and local wines as Florentine flag throwers perform. Or, take the little ones to Balistreri Vineyards,where they can stomp on grapes—which will then be used to make Little Feet Merlot—while you sample the winery’s vino. Proceeds benefit Project Angel Heart, a nonprofit that provides…
At this wing-themed culinary showdown, both the competition and the food are sure to heat up. To determine the People's Choice champion, guests will sample spicy small plates (think: hot wing soup and classic Buffalo-style wings) from 10 Colorado vendors, including Denver's Fire on the Mountain and Winter Park's Smokin’ Moe's. Between bites, local spirit…
Curb your seafood cravings with a trip to an unlikely location: a ski resort. Thanks to Arapahoe Basin executive chef Steven Vlass, landlocked Coloradans can still feast on dishes such Prince Edward Island mussels, New England–style clam chowder, and, for an extra fee, succulent lobster. While enjoying the fish, take in late-summer views from your…
Raise your glass to this boozy mountain festival. Throughout the weekend, sample just-released sips from Denver’s Infinite Monkey Theorem, Poncha Springs’ Elevation Brewing, and Breckenridge Distillery. Other highlights include a farm-to-fork dinner from Breckenridge Ski Resort executive chef Steve Arndt, a Riedel wine glass demonstration, and multiple educational outings such as a tour through the…
Enjoy local brews and food truck fare at this festival that is all about giving back. Proceeds from the event will benefit Weld Food Bank, with each dollar donated providing five meals for those in need within the Windsor community. Be charitable by sipping on Front Range brews from High Hops Brewery and Horse &…
The southwest Denver neighborhood of Westwood convenes for this sizzling celebration. Indulge in Mexican-style cuisine such as tacos, tortas, and roasted chiles with sips ranging from agua frescas and micheladas to margaritas. And if you dare, enroll in the chile-eating competition (you’ll need to sign a waiver) and try to eat as many habaneros, jalapeños,…
Farm meets table at this seasonal Spanish supper prepared by chef Dakota Soifer of Boulder’s Cafe Aion. Start with a complimentary cocktail garnished with herbs fresh from the garden. Then chow down on delicious dishes such as gazpacho with late summer tomatoes, roasted honey-cumin lamb, and almond torte with stone fruits—all made with produce just…
Thanks to this charity cookout, you don't need to spend an afternoon in the kitchen to enjoy mouthwatering game day snacks. Instead, savor small plates prepared by more than 30 of Denver's top chefs, including Korean-inspired fried chicken sliders from Troy Guard and fresh Peruvian ceviche crafted by Dana Rodriguez. While you snack, meet dozens…
Denverites love beer—so much that our fair city pours twice as many kegs as any other Oktoberfest in the country. Come armed with your stein (and clothed in traditional lederhosen or dirndl) so you can prost to 500,000 of your closest friends at this raucous German festival. If you’re a beer fanatic, opt for the…
It doesn't have to be May 5 to celebrate Mexican eats. Tequila forms the core of the fest (your ticket gets you 10 quarter-ounce samples), but with taco trucks including Fiesta Fusion and Teal Taco and esteemed Mexican beermakers such as Dos Equiis and Tecate on hand selling their wares, you need not live on agave…
This pickled feast is ideal for the brave foodie. Choose between a taco and Asian style noodles, and garnish with toppings, including kimchi, tempeh crumbles (made of fermented soybeans), or fermented hot sauce, prepared by chef-blogger Jordan Anderson. Wash it all down with sweet and bubbly kombucha or kefir. Proceeds benefit the Boulder Food Rescue,…
Millennial yuccies (young urban creatives for you Gen-Xers out there) and Instagram addicts, your choice eating moment has arrived. At this ode to mobile cuisine, four full blocks of Welton Street are transformed into a foodie's paradise featuring more than three dozen trucks and pop-up bars. Sip on signature cocktails like the Five Points Spritz, enjoy live…
With the wealth of beer-pairing dinners throughout Denver during the week of Great American Beer Festival, it can be hard to choose which one to attend. We'll make it easy for you: Pick this one. Seven chefs—from London foodie favorite Tomos Parry and Top Chef alum John Tesar to Mercantile's own Alex Seidel—will create the…
The dog days of sticky, summer heat are over, and it's time to welcome crisp, colorful fall at Cider Days. This fall-themed festival in Lakewood embraces all things apple (think: apple pie, apple pressing, and of course, apple cider.) Adults can even try up to 50 hard ciders provided by the Rocky Mountain Cider Association.…
Pierogis Factory is bringing Poland to you for this festival celebrating the famed doughy treat packed with savory filling. Spend the afternoon tasting paczki from Royal Bakery, kielbasa, and six flavors of pierogi (three of which are vegan) or reserve your hunger for the pierogi eating contest. In between bites, enjoy a performance from the…
Preserving this season’s fall bounty is a smart way to enjoy tasty produce whenever you want. With the help of Gigia Kolouch and Kristine Root from Slow Food Denver, a local group hoping to promote sustainable agriculture, you can learn how to make sauce, jelly, and chutney with Western slope fruits (think: peaches, apples, or…
Taking care of the environment can be as simple as eating sustainable appetizers at this foodie fundraising event. Denver’s Mezcla Maggie Catering will feature wildlife-themed vegan and vegetarian tapas with fun names such as Cub Prints (spinach and cream cheese in baby portobello mushrooms) and Rocky Mountain Rocks (cocoa-covered peanut butter balls). You can also…
This comprehensive whiskey tasting first debuted in Brooklyn this past June, but will head to the Mile High City for its second event. More than 45 distillers from around the world will come together for a spirit tasting experience complete with live music. Aside from sipping award-winning whiskeys and cocktails, attendees can sample alcohol-infused ice…
You're already a craft beer expert and a farm-to-table devotee—why not add coffee snob to the list? At this ode to artisan roasts, you can chat with and sample from 19 local coffee-makers (including Boulder Organic Coffee and Corvus) and enjoy a breakfast booze menu including Bloody Marys, mimosas, and Epic Brewing coffee-infused beer. To…
Denver herbalist Bridget Molloy will demonstrate how to keep cold-weather sickness at bay during this medicine-making class. She’ll convert antioxidant-rich elderberries into a low-sugar syrup that can help cure the flu, congestion, and pesky coughs. As an added bonus, Molloy will also teach how to bake with elderberries or create a concentrate for gin cocktails…
Take Sunday brunch to the next level with unlimited tastes of the best Bloody Marys in the city. Vote for your favorite sipper among cocktails mixed by bartenders from restaurants such as Jefferson Park’s Briar Common Brewery & Eatery, and LoHi’s Highland Tavern. Food will also be available from from the various restaurants whipping up…
Thanks to this exclusive fête, Denver foodies don't have to choose where to make reservations this weekend. Savor small plates prepared by more than 10 local chefs from 5280's 25 Best Restaurants list, including Jeff Osaka from 12 at Madison and El Five's Justin Cucci. Local artist Calvin Lee will also be hosting a live…
Just because you’re hosting the dinner party doesn’t mean you have to do all the cooking. Stir Cooking School chef-manager Ryan Schaefer, will teach you how to make a delicious five-course meal—featuring decadent dishes such as Yuko gold and turnip gratin with gruyere cheese, roasted pork tenderloin with bourbon apple chutney, and a chocolate cherry…
You might be too old for traditional trick-or-treating, but you can still enjoy a grown-up treat at this Halloween-themed release party. Black Shirt Brewing Co. will pour a limited edition fall-inspired brew while local alternative groups Church Fire and Motion Trap play a live show in the beer garden. Be sure to don your spookiest…
Try a sweet treat (or 10) at the opening weekend of mother-daughter duo Brenda Lehenbauer and Stacey Courtney’s bakeshop in Longmont. The ribbon cutting ceremony will include free samples of baked goods such as snickerdoodle cookies, apple crumble bars, and mini cheesecakes. You can also sign up to win a gift certificate to the bakery…
Halloween may be over, but you don't have to surrender to street clothes just yet. In this Ballpark- and LoDo-spanning bar crawl, one-piece-clad revelers will enjoy discounted bevvies (we're talking $2 drinks, people) at bars from the Ginn Mill and Refinery to Retro Room and Howl at the Moon. Onesies of all kinds are welcome,…
Sip on vintage vino while mingling with your favorite world-renowned performers from Central City Opera. Waters Edge winery owners Judy and Newell Grant will demonstrate how to bottle, cork, and label wine bottles while guests help themselves to light appetizers and drinks from the cash bar. Proceeds benefit Central City Opera, the fifth oldest professional…
Every foodie has his go-to indulgence—especially presidents. Discover previous commander in chiefs’ luxurious dishes with Adrian Miller, the James Beard Award–winning author of The President’s Kitchen Cabinet. The event also includes a three-course meal—inspired by favorite recipes of past leaders—from University of Denver executive chef Timothy Downs.
You and your plus one won’t be the only pair on this sophisticated evening at the Clyfford Still Museum. Match holiday-themed bites with Wine Dispensary’s executive sommelier, Rob MacKenzie’s pick of 10 wines, such as Tuscan chardonnay and Venetian prosecco. Before you finish your Sauternes dessert wine with mulled-sangria poached pear, be sure to enjoy…
Make your way to this 200-year-old homestead where everything from the entrees to the wine is homemade by Humphrey History Park & Museum executive director Angela Rayne. She’ll guide you through a five-course Italian feast with vintage wine pairings. Start with a Pinot Grigio paired with antipasti of cheesy flatbread and lemon white-bean bruschetta. Then…
Step into an alternate universe of the wonderfully bizarre at the world's only nitro-exclusive beer festival featuring fire-throwing circus performers and “jamtronica” music. Come decked out in your best fantasy-wear (best dressed gets an $100 gift card to Left Hand Brewing Co.) and encounter the especially smooth-tasting nitrogen-infused beer from over 40 breweries around the…
Von Miller is every NFL quarterback’s worst nightmare, partly because he received proper eye care as a child. This foodie benefit for Von’s Vision, the star linebacker’s nonprofit (which provides low-income children with eye care), is an attempt to pass on the same opportunity. Cocktail hour starts with hor d'oeuvre, including mini Cubans and Colorado…
Work & Class's typical menu of roasted goat and chile-braised pork might not seem like the most natural match for your Thanksgiving table, but this dinner proves that fancy and homestyle can (and should!) go hand in hand. This fundraiser for Work Options for Women, a nonprofit that helps provide culinary job training for women…
Belly up to this delicious and savory fall spread complete with wine pairings from Littleton-based Carboy Winery. Chef Scott Hybbeneth of Angelo’s Taverna has six courses planned, including Granny Smith apple and honey gorgonzola souffle, Alamosa striped bass crudo, and beef short rib with polenta. Finish on a sweet note with a caramelized apple tart.…
If you don't want a repeat of last year’s turkey fiasco (we told Dad that deep-frying was a bad idea), attend this crash course for surefire techniques on cooking the juiciest bird. Sheila Gains, a family and consumer science extension agent with Arapahoe County, will teach you how to safely buy, thaw, and prepare a…
Thanks to this charity dinner, Francophiles can savor their favorite cuisine without buying plane tickets to the City of Light. Colorado chefs, including Jean-Luc Voegele, will compete to make a French dish that pairs best with Beaujolais Nouveau wine. After you nosh, check out live performers from the entertaiment troupe Imagination Circus Arts. Bonus: If…
If you don't want to cook an elaborate meal for Thanksgiving this year, Crú Food & Wine Bar has you covered. Enjoy a three-course, seasonal meal featuring crisp apple cider and delectable dishes such as sweet potato-lobster bisque, spice-rubbed turkey breast, and bread pudding with apple and pecans. The best part? You won't have to…
Put on a snazzy tuxedo for this formal feast benefiting Denver youth. Enjoy stand-up from Comedian A-Train, dance to the soulful stylings Linda Styles band, and of course, taste delicious dishes prepared by local chefs from 100 Men Who Cook. Proceeds benefit the same organization, which hosts events in support of local nonprofits such as…
Even Scrooge could get in the holiday spirit at this cheerful cocktail tasting and dance party. Taste mixed drinks featuring more than 150 varieties of spirits from 30 Colorado distillers. Once the festive red-bell-pepper infused Red Panda Bear cocktail from Bear Creek Distillery has you feeling merry step onto the dance floor to jam to…
Snow is falling, the fireplace is crackling, and you’re shaking the dust bunnies off your winter coats. That means it is officially chili season. Taste up to 15 of the most flavorful Denver chilis, from the mild to the red hot, at this community cook off. Proceeds will benefit the Rocky Mountain Raptor Program, a…
What if "ugly sweater" could describe both your outfit and your drink? That's the premise of this beer release and holiday bash. Wear your ugliest sweater for a chance to win prizes, and sip on the popular seasonal brew Ugly Sweater courtesy of Wit's End Brewing Company, the new tenant in Denver's first-ever co-taproom. —Photo…
Learn how to make treats with the perfect combination of sugar and spice at this tea-infused cooking class. Local tea expert Suzanne Klein will teach you how to incorporate tea leaves into a wide variety of baked goods, including chocolate truffles, hot cocoa, and sugared nuts. All these sweets will make for a tea-licious (yes,…
We wouldn’t be surprised to see Danny Zuko walking through the door at this 1950s-themed wine festival. Explore Colorado’s vast wine industry by tasting wines that get better with age from Colorado-based wineries like Stoney Mesa and Garrett Estate. Pair the vino with chocolate from sweet shop Choke Cherry Tree before you swing and bop…
This workshop teaches aspiring beer-experts the storied history (it started in Trappist monasteries in the 18th century) and the art of Belgian beer and beer-making. Learn from Bruz Beers co-owner and head brewer Charlie Gottenkieny, who became hooked on craft beer during a visit to Belgium, as he takes you through a tasting tour of…
The Colorado Symphony proves that classical music doesn’t need to be stuffy at this laid-back beer tasting and performance. To wit: The orchestra has partnered with Epic Brewing to offer the unorthodox pairing of beers (think: RiNo Pale Ale) and Beethoven classics such as Minuet in G Minor. Be sure to come sporting your favorite…
Prepare to raise a glass to a new year filled with lots of cheer and a whole lot more beer at this festive event. Air your grievances at the Seinfeld-inspired Festivus pole and take a tour of Denver’s mighty craft brewing scene by tasting beers from Our Mutual Friend Brewing, Fiction Beer Company, Ratio Beerworks,…
Decorate a cookie (or five) at this ode to holiday baking. You can form a team and compete in a gingerbread house-building competition, non-competitively put icing and gumdrops on cookies, or kick back with a glass of ice-cold Gingerbread Helles Bock, brewed with real, icing-adorned gingerbread man cookies. If that's not enough, the day also…
Why prepare your own Christmas feast when one of the city's best restaurants can make it for you? At this dinner, you'll enjoy Italian seafood delights ranging from swordfish carpaccio to risotto with scallops ragu. Some say the seven courses of the traditional Italian meal embody the seven Catholic sacraments or the seven days of…
Get your child prepared to compete in the 2023 season of Top Chef at this winter break day camp. Kids will learn how to cut, sauté, and roast their way to the head of the kitchen, and the experience culminates with a Food Network-style cooking competition, in which the mini chefs use their newly acquired…
Learn how to become Denver’s next great master brewer at this three-day, intensive class on grain. Begin by studying the history and culture of heritage ancient grains (grains that have not been changed or adapted over the last seven hundred years) and how they compare to modern grains (think: oat and spelt versus wheat and…
Put down the cornhole bags and step away from the keg—this sophisticated and not-so-typical beer fest is as refined as the slow-aged brews it's promoting. Table and bar service will operate as usual for the two-day fest, but the menu will feature a special ode to beers aged in barrels that once held everything from…
Soda and ice is often the go-to when it comes to mixing alcoholic drinks, but hot cocktails can also make a great addition to your stock of home recipes. And this cozy tasting event will feature some of the most flavorful, such as mulled whiskey cider and peppermint hot cocoa with vodka and schnapps. Not…
Your beer blanket will keep you warm despite the chilly temperatures at this extravaganza of craft brews. You’ll be welcomed to the festival with a commemorative glass, which you can fill (and refill) with refreshing pints from well-known local breweries such as Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project and Alpine Dog Brewing Company. Make sure to…
This beer-pairing competition will prove that a sampling of the right suds can make a meal even better. You get to be the judge as Avery Brewing and Prost Brewing duke it out to see who can best match their distinctive beers with four different courses, including inventive plates such as lamb lollipops or drunken…
The first rule of this fight club is drink as many delicious craft beers as you can.. Attendees at this suds-filled event will blindly taste beers from eight different Colorado breweries—chosen through regional competitions that hadn’t wrapped up at press time— and pick their favorite The sole winner will snag a 12-month tap handle at…
Beer pairings have always been a tasty concept, but this one takes it to a whole new level. The brews included in this two-night pairing are kept under wraps until the event begins, but the baked contingent includes all your favorite Girl Scout Cookies such as Savannah Smiles, Trefoils, Samoas, and Thin Mints. The "name…
If you are ready to graduate from beer-and-snack pairings, try this sophisticated alternative. The team behind local craft distillery Laws Whiskey House will bring four of its finest spirits to serve as accompaniments for five tasting stations created by the host, the Corner Office Restaurant. Sip a Secale Rye while munching on honey-bourbon wings or…
Throw on some purple and green and prepare for soulful cajun deliciousness at this New Orleans–inspired cook-off. Both professional and amateur chefs will show off their most flavorful gumbo, which attendees get to both taste and judge. Stick around after the competition for a jazzy Mardi Gras parade complete with live music, floats, and festive…
Grab your closest girlfriends and get ready to fill your mimosa glass on Leslie Knope’s (and our) favorite made-up holiday. This pre-Valentine’s Day bar crawl includes discounted drinks at multiple RiNo brunch spots and watering holes, starting at Larimer Lounge. Bonus: Wear the color that represents your relationship status (green is single, yellow is complicated,…
Didn’t drink enough wine on Valentine’s Day? Keystone’s got you covered. This tasting event will showcase more than 20 wines, with varietals ranging from chardonnay to rosé. Once you’ve tasted your fair share of vino and passed appetizers (including TK examples), groove along to tunes from the swing band Deano.
If brunchgoers can start their day with bottomless mimosas, why can't beer lovers start their morning with bottomless brews? At this festival, you'll receive a commemorative mug to fill with all the Denver Beer Co. and/or Coda Coffee bevvies your heart desires—and on the non-drinkable side, you can also score a free breakfast burrito from…
Calling all meat lovers and aspiring butchers: James Beard Award–winning chef Brian Polcyn, of Il Porcellino Salumi, will teach you how to smoke, cure, and brine like a pro at this comprehensive class. Each day will feature multiple recipes, many of which include the whole hog present for the session. Once the course concludes, go…
If you need a boost to your do-gooder cred, look no further than this feel-good feast. Put on by the Fritz Knoebel School of Hospitality and the African Community Center of Denver, this event features a cocktail hour, silent auction, and a four-course meal designed by chef David Patterson of the Broadmoor. But the night's…
Denver’s restaurant scene has grown immensely in the past decade, providing everything from Southwestern classics (green chile and queso, anyone?) to upscale New American fare. This week only, gourmands can celebrate the diversity of the local culinary scene with $30, three-course meals from well-touted restaurants around the Mile High City. Be sure to pace yourself,…
If your Netflix and chill routine is getting boring, switch things up at this cooking class taught by Chef Dan Witherspoon of the Seasoned Chef Cooking School. You’ll learn techniques for smoking, steaming, and grilling seafood, ranging from more mainstream trout to luxurious oysters. At the end, relax with a glass of complimentary wine specifically…
At this sophisticated tasting, pick from 30 varieties of sake, including Gaijin 24866, the only sake made in Colorado. While enjoying the plethora of rice wine, you can also chow down on Asian-style hor d'oeuvres, witness the traditional Japanese ceremony used to open sake barrels (think: breaking the lid with wooden mallets), and enjoy a…
Think you've got a handle on the Centennial State food scene? Head to this expo to meet all the producers you never knew you about. Aimed at food and drink buyers, the showcase features exhibits and samples from more than 120 local makers—from Leopold Bros. to the GrowHaus to Il Porcellino Salumi. Alongside the vendors,…
Enjoy a first-class experience as spirits experts from around the world gather to discuss slopeside sips. Award-winning mixologists and brand ambassadors, such as Charlotte Voisey of United Kingdom-based William Grant & Sons Distillers, will host educational seminars about the intricacies of craft cocktails. The Great Après-Ski Pub Crawl will also return, featuring over 1o specially-…
Stay warm during the last couple weeks of winter by digging into some flavorful chili at this heated competition. Chili aficionados can sample tasty offerings—ranging from red to green to vegetarian—from chili enthusiasts of all skill levels. Proceeds from the event go to MaxFund, a no-kill animal shelter and adoption center, that will also be…
Everyone loves tasty drinks, but pretty drinks are the real stars of the cocktail scene. Find both at this new event, pitting some of the city's best bartenders against each other in a battle for the most elaborate drink accoutrements in town. Attendees can sample each of the intricate creations—including a seaweed-infused gin drink topped with a spun-sugar…
The opening celebration for this brand new Colorado Springs brewery—owned by former service members—stretches all weekend long. Along with the requisite beer releases, there will also be Mexican eats from Mira Sol Food Truck and a bustling roster of live tunes. Stop by for UTurn Brass on Thursday, the Tejon Street Corner Thieves on Friday,…
At this teamwork-themed beer festival, nearly 100 breweries will come together to collaborate on more than 75 unique concoctions. Check out tasty creations such as an Imperial French Toast Stout from local combo Mockery Brewing and Baere Brewing Company. The pair's invention was inspired by the Beastie Boys lyric, "I don't mean to brag, I…
This festival will welcome brewers from across the country—including many from the Centennial State’s formidable beer scene. Sip on a brew from California-based Ballast Point Brewing Company or try out local favorite Breckenridge Brewery as you jam to folk- and hip-hop-influenced band the Company Stores and bluesy rock band Tracksuit Wedding. And don’t miss authentic…
Just because it's mud season doesn't mean that there isn't good reason to head to the mountains. This mega-fest features more than 50 breweries—from Guinness to Boulder-based Upslope Brewing Company—slinging samples, plus food and vendor booths ranging barbecue at The Good Smoke and Grill to CBD oils at Brecken Gold Hemp. Local rock band Tracksuit…
When the Centennial State is home to so many tempting breweries and wineries, choosing a bar on Friday night can be a challenge. But thanks to this inaugural tasting event that features more than 120 Colorado-made beverage options, you and the crew are covered. Sample refreshing drinks from purveyors such as Station 26 Brewing Co.…
Learn how to make the hippest beverage out there at this workshop with local kombucha brewer Ashlee Redger. You’ll spend the 90-minute class learning how to infuse fermented sweet tea with flavor using fruits, flowers, and extracts such as ginger. Bonus: Attendees will bring home their own kombucha starter kits to further impress trendy friends.
Treat your little one to a fanciful afternoon of high tea on vintage china. The two of you will get your hands (and aprons) dirty as you create delicious classics such as cucumber finger sandwiches and traditional English milk scones with clotted cream and jam. And since no tea is complete without dessert, your final…
This traveling expo will teach you easier ways to enjoy a diverse diet while still remaining gluten-free. More than five dozen prepared-food companies and restaurants will exhibit their tasty food, which means attendees can munch on everything from Garden Lites’ chocolate muffins to Qrunch Organics’ quinoa-based burgers. Expo-goers can also participate in instructional classes such…
Treat your tastebuds to a delectable paired food and beer experience at Yak & Yeti Restaurant. Enjoy five courses of Thali—the Nepalese version of tapas—while the suds experts from Spice Trade Brewery and Cheluna Brewing Co. pick the ideal brew for each dish. Brewmasters Jeff Tyler and Javier Perez will be on hand to provide…
This national organization’s Denver chapter is more than just a pun—it is also creating a community of women who both love and contribute to the craft beer community. At this free (save for the drinks) event, both males and females can explore brews from Zuni Street Brewing Company. German-, Belgian-, and American-style beers will be…
Thanks to this outdoor festival, you can relax in a European-style beer garden without ever leaving the Centennial State. While alt-rock outfit Jaded Traveler and jazzy ensemble Badda Boom Brass Band play live sets, nearly a dozen Colorado beer makers—as well as New York's Brewery Ommegang—will pour refreshing Belgian brews. Stuck being the designated driver?…
Evergreen is mostly known for its stunning mountain scenery (and the wealth of recreational opportunities that go along with it), but the quirky town also boasts a surprising number of nosh-worthy eateries. At this extensive festival, check more than a dozen restaurants such as Vivian’s Gourmet, Mac Nation Cafe, and Muddy Burk. This year’s iteration…
With more than 30 original bacon dishes and 100 craft beer options, this tasty event might be Denver’s most indulgent of 2018. Check out savory dishes from Denver locales such as Butcher’s Bistro and Farm House at Breckenridge Brewery, or sample desserts such as a giant marshmallow with chocolate, bacon, pretzels, and potato chips from…
A pie crust is notoriously difficult to perfect; if the dough’s absorbed too much flour, it tastes starchy and if you don’t roll it out smooth, it will bake unevenly. Thankfully, Shauna Lott, the chef behind Denver’s famous Long I Pie Shop is here to show you exactly where you’re going wrong—and how to make…
School lunches are not known for their culinary artistry or nutritional value. But at this tastebud-tickling event, four renowned Denver-area chefs (including Max MacKissock of Señor Bear and Cindhura Reddy of Spuntino) will try to prove that kids can get both delicious and healthy food for less than $1.25 a meal—the United States Department of…
This annual celebration first began six years ago when event organizers decided to throw an ode to their favorite (and possibly most unexpected) food-and-drink combination. But Denverites immediately recognized that the sugary sweet taste of fried pastries and the warmth of whiskey just go together and the event has grown to attract more than a…
Just because Colorado produces the third highest number of barrels of craft beer in the nation doesn’t mean our fine state can’t also churn out equally fine wine. Sample some of that high-caliber vino at this two-day event, featuring varieties from all seven wineries in the Grand Valley Winery Association. (The Grand Valley spans the…
With over 400 varieties, Hearth & Dram is already a whiskey connoisseurs' paradise. In celebration of World Whiskey Day, they'll add one more special offering to that list: Peach Street Colorado Straight Bourbon. Made in conjunction with Palisade-based Peach Street Distillers, this dynamic spirit spent nearly four years in an American oak barrel developing complex…
If the gorgeous spring weather isn't enough motivation to hop on a bike, this guided monthly tour of popular West Denver breweries may provide the the needed incentive. For each of the four stops (WestFax Brewing Company, Joyride Brewing Company, Hogshead Brewery, and Seedstock Brewery) you visit on the 6.7-mile loop, you'll receive one dollar…
Five years ago, Cortney Logan and Alexandra Weissner imagined a reality where fellow runners and brunch enthusiasts could collectively dash their way to breakfast joints around Denver. This Thursday, the now-established running group will gallop—participants choose between a 5K and 10K route along the scenic Cherry Creek Trail—to Snooze Union Station, where, for the second-straight…
Rosé’s dry flavor makes for easy drinking—exactly what you want on a hot summer day. This festival will epitomize that idea, with samples of dozens of blush-colored wines from makers such as Colorado’s own Creekside Cellars. While you sample the vino, enjoy live jazz by the Taylor Borgen Quartet and oysters from Westminster-based Big Mac…
This beer-centric fest has such a packed agenda, you’ll have trouble choosing which tasty events to attend. The weekend schedule kicks off with the Brewer’s Dinner at Vail Ale House, a multi-course meal paired with beer samples from Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project and Fate Brewing Company. The experience continues with activities ranging from nature…
After discovering a “serendipitous” chemistry while working on previous beer collaborations—including at the March 2018 Collaboration Fest—Molly’s Spirits and New Image Brewing Company are teaming up again. During this release party at New Image, the team will reveal Better Together, a juicy, tropical New England Style IPA. In addition to the suds, beer lovers can…
Atlanta chef Brady Lowe began this traveling competition in 2008 as a way to promote the use of heritage pigs, which are humanely raised and fed grass, grain, fruits, and nuts. At this Denver stop, five local chefs—including Nate Singer of Blackbelly Butcher and Cindhura Reddy of Sputino—will each use an entire pig to create…
This tasty event is trying to accomplish the (near) impossible: choosing the best tacos in the Mile High City. Denver staples such as Comida and Tacos, Tequila, Whiskey, as well as unexpected competitors like barbecue joint GQue BBQ, will compete for titles such as top creative taco, top traditional taco, and top vegetarian taco. A…
For the past three years, Great Divide Brewing Company has partnered with local up-and-coming artists to launch intricate designs for their Denver Pale Ale can. This year’s release party—set in RiNo's Helikon Gallery—will introduce attendees to a new outdoors-themed illustration from Denver artist Rachel Jablonski. Check out Jablonski's work while sipping on free Denver Pale…
With Fourth of July on a Wednesday this year, the previous weekend offers the ideal opportunity to begin toasting our country’s 242nd birthday—with beer, of course. This brew-focused fest—featuring only American craft breweries, and over 25 Colorado Craft Breweries like Black Bottle Brewery and Left Hand Brewing Co.—offers the opportunity to do just that. Along…
This fest has added more vendors and entertainment every summer since it first began seven years ago. At this iteration, head down 32nd Avenue for three days of tasty barbecue and craft beers as well as shopping from artisan vendors. Don’t miss whiskey cocktails from the Cowboy Glitter Bar (think: old fashioneds with a fruity…
Being 28 years old is young by human standards, but that’s not the case in Denver’s continuously growing craft beer industry. Amongst a long list of younger counterparts, Breckenridge Brewery—which celebrates being around for close to three decades this month—is the third oldest craft brewery in the Centennial State. In honor of the anniversary, the…
Celebrate Denver’s thriving independent restaurant scene at this tasty event, which is a part of Slow Food Nations. More than 65 local eateries will share mouthwatering dishes, including classic fried chicken from the Way Back, along with specialty cocktails created by Jason Snopkoski, the bar director at Avanti Food & Beverage. Sales from the event…
Wine aficionados will have their pick of 180-plus varieties of vino from more than two dozen Colorado wineries at this extensive event. Sip grape juice from locales such as Aspen Peak Cellars and Vino Passarelli, and sample food from vendors such as Woodhill Smash Batch BBQ and Ricky’s Island Cafe while listening to local bands,…
Rally the troops for this day of festivities to celebrate Call to Arms Brewing Company's third birthday. Square off in games, including ring toss or coaster fling, as you chow down on spicy chicken sandwiches from local Budlong Hot Chicken food truck or street tacos from Denver’s Mas Kaos. After playing on the brewery's porch,…
Savor scrumptious dishes from some of East Colfax's best eateries at this tasty event. As you eagerly walk through the area's Bluebird District, sample pastries from Humble Pie, custom cocktails and green chili sliders from Middleman, and flavorful chicken from Q House. Along with the delectable food, watch street-side entertainment such as Denver country band…
Whether you’re hoping to finally go full vegan or just looking for a way to make those salads tastier, this is the place to learn all about a plant-based diet. Catch presentations from top Colorado chefs—including Ron Pickarski, founder of Eco-Cuisine Natural Foods—on how to incorporate non-meat-based protein into your meals and Sarah Eastin of…
Food lovers can cycle to four Fort Collins farms and gardens during this 37-mile educational bike trip. Participants will stop at locations, such Bartels Farm and the Growing Project, a nonprofit that supports local growers through education initiatives. At each location they will have the opportunity to chat with farmers and learn about how they…
After your first mouth-watering bite into a perfectly grilled piece of meat, you’ll be glad there’s still more to sample at this burger competition. Twenty Denver beef enthusiasts, including past champions such as Park Burger and Stoic & Genuine, will battle in an attempt to win the favor of the judges like freelance food writer…
Sway to live music while snacking on bites from some of Denver's best food trucks at this mobile munch fest. Settle into the evening with a crisp rosé from Denver's Infinite Monkey Theorem or a brew from Longmont-based Oskar Blues Brewery. Then, stop by one of 40 local food trucks for mouth-watering noshes, including Japanese…
More than 30,000 Ethiopian immigrants call the Mile High City home. Familiarize yourself with the well-established community at this festival dedicated to the African nation’s traditional food, such as soft mounds of injera bread (traditional Ethiopian flatbread) topped with spicy stew. Attendees can also participate in an Ethiopian coffee ceremony, a social event that traditionally…
Enjoy an unobstructed view of the Flatirons at this dinner party on the Boulder Brands rooftop deck. Sample sumptuous small bites from Boulder farm-to-table restaurants Blackbelly and Bramble & Hare and sip refreshing cocktails provided by Local Table Tours. An auction for a hot air balloon ride, a group cocktail tour, and other prizes will…
This messy feast celebrates the deliciousness of good old fashioned Southern cooking. Eager eaters will gather around a large community table where freshly boiled crawfish—flown in the night before from Louisiana—will mix with sausage, potatoes, and corn in a large, steaming pile ready to be devoured. Diners can dig into the shellfish bounty and sip…
In honor of National Rum Day this 16th Street Mall establishment is throwing a spicy summer party full of dining, dancing, and drinking. Begin the festive evening with fruity sips, including a pineapple mojito and strawberry rum Moscow mule. After settling in, dig into Cuban-inspired fare, such as empanadas and Cubano sandwiches before stepping onto…
Five Lakewood breweries will sling suds at this all-day beer tasting event. Taste brews such as a Life Hack Double Hazy IPA from WestFax Brewing Company and Great Frontier Brewing Company's Coconut Porter. Attendees can also enjoy delicious bites from Mexican Street Grill, while enjoying a live performance from Denver country singer Larry Nix. Just…
The culinary stars will be out for this delectable feast. Local celebrity chefs—Bar Dough's Carrie Baird and Brother Luck of Four by Brother Luck, among them—will each craft a tasty dish that will be paired with brew from Oskar Blues Brewery. After you've polished off your food, including Ricotta Cavetelli and a brownie sundae, head…
Instead of your run-of-mill Wednesday dinner routine, opt for this outdoor feast at the sprawling Long Hawk Farm in Longmont. GB Culinary from Boulder will be dishing out a smorgasbord of wood-fired creations, including a whole hog prepared with blackberry plum barbecue and popped corn. Veggie-lovers can enjoy a grilled radicchio salad and warm polenta…
Let the combination of fine wine and savory bites tingle your taste buds during this six-day culinary extravaganza. Stop by the festival’s signature grand tasting to try dishes from more than 40 acclaimed Denver restaurants, including Citizen Rail and Chocolate Lab Denver, paired with wines such as Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon made in Napa Valley. Foodies…
Mizuna’s food is delicious enough in its French-inspired Capitol Hill digs. It reaches a new level when it’s paired with the sweeping views at Red Rocks, though. At this pre-concert pop-up meal, diner’s can taste the New American restaurant’s signature lobster mac and cheese, tender roast beef tenderloin, and toffee pudding. Afterward head up the…
Bourbon greats Maker's Mark, Jim Bean, Basil Hayden, and Knob Creek are hitting the road on an experiential four-city tour, and Denver is the first stop. Thirsty Denverites can dive into the history of the storied alcohol brands in this free, two-day event. In honor of one of the earliest ways of transporting the brown…
Most of us don't need an excuse to drink coffee and eat chocolate, but if you're looking for one, this culinary-driven lecture works. Nuance Chocolate co-owner Toby Gadd and Mountain Iris Café proprietor Daniella Kocher Hobson will discuss the culture and history associated with many of our favorite guilty pleasures. After the presentation, attendees can…
Colorado boasts some of the best IPAs, sours, and stouts in the country. (Yes, we're bragging.) But do you know the history behind the state's tasty brews? At this screening party for Rocky Mountain PBS' sixth season premiere episode of "Colorado Experience", guests can learn more about some of the leading pioneers behind the Centennial…
Hopheads will have to forgive this renowned beer showcase for choosing a corporate sponsor like Buffalo Wild Wings to embody its love for locally grown craft brews. Focus instead on tasting unlimited one-ounce samples from a selection of over 4,000 beers (selections TBD) presented by 800-plus breweries and conveniently organized by region. As the competition…
Taste the famous fiery flavor of Pueblo chiles at this community-focused fest. Attendees can watch green chiles from six Pueblo growers—DiTomaso and Musso Farms included—turn over an open flame while chowing down on sloppers (chile-smothered beef patties) from Grey’s Coors Tavern. Once you cool your mouth off with a glass of water, don’t miss family-friendly…
Melissa Cole—one of the most famous beer writers in the world—believes that fall is an ideal time for hearty recipes and hoppy IPAs. The London-based author will share some of her favorite brew and food combinations at this event to celebrate the release of her cookbook, The Beer Kitchen. Along with a preview of her newest…
Twangy rhythms will harmonize with the sizzle and pop of crispy bacon at this summer party. As you sway to the bluegrass beat of Denver band Rusty 44, savor free samples of salty cherrywood and habanero bacon from Denver’s Tender Belly. After whetting your appetite, devour bacon-centric guac alongside Black Shirt Brewing Co. brews, including…
The Paleo diet movement runs against the grain, arguing that highly processed wheats and cereal crops contribute to health problems ranging from diabetes to chronic digestive illnesses. At this wellness fair, join health gurus as they present tasty anti-grain inspiration and free fitness classes. Start with a free yoga class taught by CorePower Yoga before…
Inject some Spanish flair into your timeworn Rolodex of recipes with this energetic cooking class. Settle into the evening with a complimentary glass of cabernet franc before watching Denver chef Maggie O’Toole concoct four flavorful tapas including tortillas de camarones (shrimp fritters) and patatas bravas (fried potatoes with a tomato aioli.) After the demonstration, participants…
Dine off the beaten track during this luxurious dinner spent speeding through the Royal Gorge by train. As the locomotive chugs along the rim of the canyon with the winding Arkansas river 1,000 feet beneath, savor a carefully crafted five-course meal, including seared ahi tuna over polenta and Colorado Buffalo Wellington with rich marsala mushroom…
This delectable festival is the type of cacao-filled wonderland that would leave even Willy Wonka in awe. Taste truffles, chocolate-covered cakes, brownies, and chocolate-infused alcohol from 70 different vendors, such as Chocolove from Boulder and Highlands Ranch's Cake it ez. (Options for gluten- and dairy-free folks, as well as vegans included.) There are even opportunities…
Lagers and the living dead abound at this beer crawl meets capture-the-flag extravaganza. In order to survive, costumed participants must run to all participating bars, scattered across Larimer Square. But they must do so while avoiding zombies trying to steal the two flags (lives) attached to their belts. After running to safety inside one of…
Crisp fall days are the perfect time for a warm bowl of chili. And this competition is your chance to taste recipes from twenty-two local restaurants—such as Table 6 and Café Brazil—vying to win awards selected by both food critics and event-goers. Be sure to snag suds from New Belgium Brewing Company or a cocktail…
Denverites can wine and dine in the presence of some award-winning chefs during this three-day foodie favorite. On Thursday and Friday, guests can enjoy a 12-course meal (complete with wine pairings) as they watch local and national chefs, such as Denver's Matt Vawter of Mercantile Dining & Provision and Alex Baker of New York eatery…
After cracking open a few shells at this seafood smorgasbord, it’ll feel like you’ve shipped off to Boston. Nosh on ocean fare, including fresh whole lobster, clams, and shrimp supplied by Seattle Fish Co., and wash it all down with local brews from Odell Brewing Company and Evergreen Tap House. Afterward, sit back and listen…
'Tis the season for the pumpkin obsessed. And Hops & Pie is here to satiate your appetite for the favorite fall flavor with a day full of 11 tasty pumpkin-flavored beers from across the country. Sample local suds from locales such as Denver's Copper Kettle Brewing, as well as with beer flown in specially for…
Unlike most cooking courses that begin in the kitchen, this one starts at another important location when it comes to meal prep: the market. Beginner- to intermediate-level cooks can join local chef Katrina Brink at the Pearl Street Farmer's Market to plan a four-course meal around the available in-season fare. After selecting ingredients, attendees will…
Start November off right by sampling good food and supporting a worthy cause at this charity-focused event. Wander past a plethora of food stations, including hot dog joint Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs, and global cuisine served by the Edible Beats group (the minds behind Linger, Root Down, and El Five). Then participate in both live…
Just in time for National Learn How to Homebrew Day, this beer-filled bash is here to teach you the nuances of making your own ales and lagers. Attend a seminar about small-batch brewing systems presented by the folks at Ruby Street Brewing and learn how to grow your own hops with the team at Niwot…
Fresh and innovative Denver restaurants and chefs have received numerous national awards and accolades in recent years. But as this nine-day festival of restaurant deals proves, Boulder eateries are just as dynamic. More than 50 nosh-worthy joints will host three-course tastings ($34 each), with each menu giving diners a yummy exploration of the city’s most…
This event promises to be as dark and unique as the nitrogen-infused beer it celebrates. Enjoy smooth and creamy brews from more than 30 purveyors across the United States, including local suds slingers Wibby Brewing Company and Left Hand Brewing Company. While sipping brew, jam to North Carolina rock group Big Something, and enjoying performances…
This tasty event combines competition, charity, and, of course, cheese. Dig into unlimited sandwich samples, enjoy both non-alcoholic and boozy beverages from brands, such as White Claw and Odell Brewing Company, and vote for which restaurant most deserves the title of Denver's Best Grilled Cheese. Chefs representing 17 local eateries will be battling for the…
Back in the early 2000s, before the farm-to-table movement infiltrated the United States, Eden Vardy stumbled across a network of popular Brazilian cafes that only used inexpensive, locally grown ingredients. The concept inspired the Aspen environmentalist to host a free dinner, incorporating a similar approach, for Roaring Fork Valley residents in 2008. Vardy still holds…
Continue the Thanksgiving food bender with a course on how to cook four classic French dishes. Local chefs, including Dana Demarco of the Cooking Studio, will showcase simplistic yet tasty recipes that even novice chefs can prepare. A class favorite: Parisian-style gratin potatoes mixed with cream that are baked until the top of the dish…
It’s one thing to sing your favorite holiday jingle and another to use it as inspiration for an actual meal. During this culinary course, chef Steven Nalls from the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts will help guests turn “The 12 Days of Christmas” into a tasty feast as they learn how to roast hens,…
Whether she’s making chicken piccata or spinach gratin, this Food Network TV host makes gourmet look easy. In honor of her new cookbook, Cook Like a Pro, the culinary whiz is coming to Denver for a moderated discussion about crafting her recipes and filming her Emmy Award–winning show, “Barefoot Contessa.” Audience members will also get…
During a trip to Australia’s Sunshine Coast, Koel Thomae happened upon a passion fruit purée yogurt that was unlike anything she’d had before. The life-changing snack inspired the Boulderite to create Noosa Yoghurt with fourth-generation dairy farmer Rob Graves. During this foodie-focused talk, Thomae will delve into into how she created her creamy treat, charting…
This delicacy-driven fest lets you indulge in guilty pleasures—of both the savory and sweet variety. Try cheeses, wines, and chocolates from producers all over the Centennial State, including truffles from the Choke Cherry Tree in Pagosa Springs and cucumber-dill-flavored Monterey Jack from Olathe’s own Rocking W Cheese. But the food isn’t the only thing that…
Whether you’re looking for some 1990s nostalgia or just good old fashioned holiday fun, this Seinfeld-themed festival has got you covered. A variety of Denver breweries, including Woods Boss Brewing Company, will sling suds, and a silent disco party along with an ugly sweater contest will make all those grievances wash away—just like it’s supposed…
Competition may not be the reason for the season, but it's the cornerstone of this beer-centric contest from Bierstadt Lagerhaus. Seven Colorado breweries, including Little Machine Beer and Call to Arms Brewing, will each present their exclusive, seasonal beer for attendees to taste. After sampling each festive creation you can vote for your favorite. The…
New Belgium Brewing Company’s brewers are here to show you how a few small grains can turn into delicious suds. During this educational tour, beer aficionados can use a sampling glass to taste the beer at various stages of production, including the initial wort (extracting malt from sprouted barley) and the different phases of fermentation,…
Enjoy dinner under the stars without risking hypothermia at this limited-time dining experience. Whether diners choose the four to six-course, drink-paired meal or opt to order a la carte, they can enjoy fresh, seasonal cuisine in the comfort of a heated igloo (read: a tent that looks like the famous dwelling made of ice). Though…
Because of this hour-long cooking class, you won’t have to resort to delivery the next time you crave Chinese fare. ViewHouse executive chef Jose Guerrero will teach guests how to make a plethora of Chinese fare, including dumplings and steamed bao buns. Afterward, you can pair the in-class creations with drinks from vendors like Francis…
This nutrition-focused cooking class will help you make good on that New Year’s resolution to detoxify your diet. In this hands-on, 90-minute experience, dietician Heidi Dietz will teach participants how to cook a variety of healthy, plant-based meals, such as chickpea curry and quinoa tabouli salad. Attendees will learn the wellness benefits of the ingredients…
Guests can tailor their weekends to their taste buds during this customizable four-day getaway. Top Chef star Brother Luck—one of six celebrity chefs featured—will launch the weekend on Thursday with Colorado Flavors at Revolution, where he’ll cook for attendees alongside Fruition Restaurant and Mercantile Dining & Provision chef Alex Seidel. For those torn between the…
Mile High Station and unlimited craft beer—pick a more iconic duo. We’ll wait. About 50 suds slingers, including local favorites Wynkoop Brewing Company and Avery Brewing Company, will offer more than 100 brews. All the best beer complements are also slated to make an appearance, including Basic Kneads pizza and Bavarian pretzels from Baker St.…
Sample up to 15 tastings from top Colorado brands such as 10th Mountain Whiskey and Broken Arrow Spirits at this festival. In between pours, enjoy the music from a DJ and feast on bites from food trucks, such as Bits and Pieces Con Cerveza.That internal warmth won’t just be from the whiskey, though; all proceeds…
If you believe bourbon and bacon should be held in higher regard than wine and cheese, you'll find plenty of sympathizers at this festival. Attendees can can pair sips from Buffalo Trace, Fireball, and more than 30 other bourbon brands with bacon-oriented bites from restaurants, such as Syrup and Milk & Cake. Last year's chefs…
You can’t pair just any wine with just any chocolate. Like finding a romantic mate, you have to consider how the two elements will work in tandem. Fortunately, you’ll get some help from Ridgeline Hotel executive chef Jacob Tew, who will help attendees marry vino from Justin Winery and Landmark Vineyards and chocolate confections by…
Dedicated downhillers can bookend your their Valentine’s dinner plans with some time on the slopes thanks to this romantic meal. Start the evening by schussing midway down Copper Mountain to Solitude Station, a dining venue where you’ll indulge in an elaborate gourmet buffet prepared by Copper Mountain executive chef David Taladay. Local folk musician Beau…
Dive into a delectable plant-based feast organized by Long Table Farms, an-all female group that cooks up community pop-up dinners. This Valentine’s Day spread features two menus: one classic and one Indian-inspired, with ingredients sourced from Long Table's own urban farm. The indulgent all-vegan dishes will range from a charcuterie-style appetizer with homemade nut cheeses…
The Comal Heritage Food Incubator's job force training program teaches local low-income women professional cooking skills—which they get to show off at monthly impact dinners. For this one, Comal executive chef Tim Bender and his students will be joined by guest chef Sara Nassr to create a five-course, Middle Eastern dinner. The meal—replete with wine…
Buying from local producers has proven benefits for personal and community health. That’s why agricultural pioneers in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley are working to provide fresh food for the surrounding area—an endeavor captured by documentary filmmakers Haley Thompson and Tomas Zuccareno in How We Grow. During this event, viewers can catch a screening of the…
A few nips of Mexico’s signature spirit during this lively festival will help you stave off that February chill. Tequila enthusiasts can enjoy tastings from more than 10 brands, including Suavecito and Jose Cuervo, along with small bites from host Blake Street Tavern. All that sipping will also provide warm feelings of a different kind:…
You can take the bar out of Texas, but you can't take Texas out of the bar. The Lone Star State's Roosevelt Room Bar will send its mixologists across state lines to Denver's Williams & Graham to serve up a special menu featuring William Grant & Sons spirits. Roosevelt's award-winning cocktail artists will concoct some…
This throw-down will pit some of the best women chefs from Denver against top-notch female culinary creators from Boulder. Taste creative creations inspired by classic movies from folks such as Bar Dough’s Carrie Baird and Safta’s Lilliana Myers while sipping vino and specialty liquors from Francis Ford Coppola Winery. At the end of the night,…
Sub beer for your usual weekend mimosa at this brew-centric festival. You'll receive a commemorative mug to fill with all the Denver Beer Co. and Coda Coffee Company libations your stomach (and liver) can handle, including the breakfast-inspired French toast stout and espresso imperial porter. Meanwhile, unlimited Tender Belly bacon and a breakfast burrito from…
One day isn't enough to pack in all the merriment WestFax Brewing Co. has in store for their three-year anniversary celebration. Instead, over two, the Lakewood Brewery will host Stupid Awesome Sandwiches, Steuben's, and Central Texas Pitworks BBQ food trucks for versatile dishes you can wash down with one of their seven new beer releases,…
Throw on some suspenders and a pair of bridge-taped glasses to nerd out on Colorado’s best brews at this sudsy celebration. More than 30 breweries will pour samples while you and other beer geeks discuss the merits of fresh hops versus dried and whether anyone ever got around to making a decent gluten-free beer. The…
Catch up with Colorado’s ever-expanding food scene at this culinary showcase. More than 120 local makers—among them, Breadworks Bakery & Cafe and Honey House Distillery—will take over the National Western Complex, replete with samples of their most tantalizing offerings. Afterward, take a break to digest by listening to a slew of experts, like Slow Food…
With 100 percent of ticket sales benefitting the National Kidney Foundation, each bite of food is an act of good at this tasty soirée. More than 25 chefs from Denver's top restaurants will serve up their most mouthwatering fare at this cooking competition, from Cat Caine of Death and Co.'s crispy char siu pork ribs…
For this three-day St. Patty's Day bash, Breckenridge's on-mountain Sevens restaurant will transform into O'Sevens—at 10,010 feet, America's highest pop-up Irish pub. Revelers can sample Irish classics like corned beef and bangers and mash, washing them down with specials from Breckinridge Brewery like the $8 Breck Bomb (shots of Irish Whiskey and Irish Cream dropped…
Have you ever wanted to taste a Saison aged in a Chardonnay barrel? Maybe a milkshake-infused IPA? If so, you’re in luck; those are just a few of the kinds of unique concoctions you can sample during this teamwork-themed festival. Over 200 brewers from all over Colorado have been paired up to make specialty suds…
If you long to explore a ski resort without all the crowds, then this evening excursion has got you covered. To begin, guests will snowshoe two-plus miles from the Breckenridge base to TenMile Station. There, they’ll be greeted by a decadent buffet dinner. During both the pre- and post-dinner treks, guests can also revel in…
Ethical omnivores need not worry about the origin of their food at this five-course, pig-centric feast. Dishes such as the ham salad—greens, sheep's milk ricotta burrata, blood orange crackling, and fennel seed vinaigrette—will utilize Fruition Farm's just-harvested produce and freshly made cheeses. The real star of the evening, however, is the responsibly raised, heritage breed…
Learn how to cultivate a delicious and varied diet—while also maintaining a gluten-free lifestyle— at Natural Grocers’ annual celebration of all things wellness. Sample Hippeas' white cheddar chickpea puffs and Capello's double chocolate cookie dough, along with other food and vitamins from more than two dozen vendors. After loading up on small bites, expo-goers can…
Budget-minded wine lovers can kick off a year-long tasting extravaganza at this Mardi Gras-themed celebration. Along with a complimentary pour from Water's Edge Winery, attendees will pick up their Mile High Wine Pass featuring bottle discounts, free tastings, and two-for-one deals at more than 18 Denver establishments, including Corridor 44 Champagne Bar and Silver Vines…
Seasoned sommeliers and novice wine lovers alike will enjoy this six-course intimate paired dinner. Lance Hanson of Jack Rabbit Hill Farm will assist executive chef Duncan Holmes with drink picks, and be on hand to answer questions about his orchards and vineyards. The menu is secret, but caviar will be involved, and you can count…
Equal parts craft beer, flea market, and bluegrass music—this mountain festival nails Colorado culture on a grand scale. As you sip unlimited samples from Storm Peak Brewing and 10 Barrel Brewing Co. (among many more), take in the twangy harmony of live bands The Lil Smokies and Colorado Springs group Woodshed Red. Don't forget to…
Customize your weekend to accommodate your appetite (and your budget) at this posh mountain festival. Attendees can choose from a slew of events in different price ranges, such as seminars taught by wine and beverage experts like master sommelier Brett Zimmerman and a special release rosé tasting. If you can’t pick between the resort town’s…
Put all your shellfish skills to the test at this oyster extravaganza. Whether you're a shucking savant, or can down the delicacies like no other, enter one of the competitions to prove you're worth your salt(water). There will also be tasty bites from Jax Fish House and Oyster Bar, Morin, and Stoic & Genuine restaurants,…
Studying the history of food shows you not just what people ate, but the culture, economics, and even politics of people from the past. Drawing from the University of Denver’s significant culinary archives, professor Carol Helstosky will give a 90-minute lecture that speaks to how foods past have influenced the present. During the lesson, the…
Ski season might be winding down, but Coloradans know the warmer weather simply signals festival time in the mountains. At this beer-centric exhibition, Left Hand Brewery, Eddyline Brewery, and dozens more will be slinging sudsy samples all day. Vendor booths will also be in attendance, including Loki Outerwear, where you can stock up on cold…
In celebration of Mexican craft brews, all 14 Ironton Distillery & Crafthouse draft taps will dispense suds from Mexican beer brands. Sample iterations made with ingredients like hibiscus flower and blue corn from Cerveza Loba and 11 other brewers. Pair your lagers and ales with fish tacos and other Baja-style fare from the Clamato Time…
With its polished copper mug, uncomplicated preparation, and fizzy delivery, few cocktails have stood the test of time like the Moscow mule. At this whimsical golf-themed celebration, local eateries, including Jax LoDo and Revel Social, will serve up 10 creative twists on the classic drink, incorporating spirits ranging from the requisite vodka to tequila and…
Coffee connoisseurs and caffeine addicts can get their fix at this brew-centric extravaganza. Exploring all things coffee, the weekend kicks off on Saturday with film screenings of Coffee Propaganda and Caffeinated. Tastings, lectures, and exhibitions will follow, including a barista demonstration of latte art from local brands like Erie Coffee Company. Even though kiddos can't drink…
No need to choose between drinks with friends and hitting the gym thanks to this dynamic workout class. Beer industry executive turned yoga instructor Leanne Maciel will start the one-hour vinyasa flow session by elaborating on the histories of yoga and beer and their similar trajectories—for example, both are ancient traditions more popular today than…
If you're looking to bring the bold and varied flavors of Asian street food into your own kitchen, this three-hour workshop is a good place to start. At this hands-on session, Denver chef and culinary teacher Maggie O'Toole will walk you through the intricate steps in preparing dishes like Japanese gyoza and Vietnamese summer rolls.…
If Jack Daniels and Jim Beam don't whet your whiskey whistle, one of the 28 distilleries at this libation-filled fest surely will. You'll be able to swill some high-shelf liquors from local companies like Lee Spirits Co. and State-38 Distillery, nibble on snacks, and participate in a tasting (you'll receive a souvenir tasting glass so…
You won't need a purple jumpsuit to bowl, but if you want a chance at the costume contest prize (a $50 Punch Bowl Social gift card!) Jesus Quintana's iconic look from the cult classic film can perform double duty. In addition to the patio-side bowling at this themed bash, live music will sound from local reggae…
It’s no secret that Boulder is an enduring foodie town, and for this award-winning festival, Denver’s neighbor to the northwest is pulling out all the stops. Between 10th and 17th on Pearl Street, prominent Boulder galleries and retail stores will host 15 of the region’s top restaurants, along with acclaimed wineries and distilleries. With fare…
A mini-vacation to Fort Collins is worth it to celebrate Derby Day in true Southern fashion at this boozy extravaganza. Gorge on an array of fare, like Kentucky hot brown crostini and Memphis dry rub house-mad wings at the all-you-can-eat buffet, then wash it all down with the Hope Grenade's mint julep cream ale or…
Guests will be able to give their compliments directly to the chef at this charitable dinner. Based on their top three preferences for culinary artists, diners will be grouped at a table with one of more than 30 renowned Denver taste-makers—including Oak’s Sarah Beckwith and Avelina’s Josh Oakley—as they sample four exquisite courses prepared by…
The seasons are turning, and Mr. B's Wine & Spirits is answering with a bevy of warm-weather vintages. At this varied tasting, find an array of more than 90 reds, whites, and rosés from wineries across the country, like California's Scar of the Sea. Peckish attendees can pair their vino with meat and cheese boards…
Instead of a simple box of Mother’s Day chocolates, treat your mom to an entire smorgasbord at this decadent fest. She’ll satisfy her sweet tooth with the delectable confectionary in all its delicious forms—including fudge, brownies, and even a chocolate martini bar—from over 30 chocolatiers and shops like Littleton’s The Chocolate Therapist. A “creation station”…
If the experiences up for auction—such as an aerial fitness class from Air Denver and whodunit meal from the Dinner Detective—aren’t enough motivation to attend this philanthropic evening, the food and beverage lineup should be. Blue Agave grill will provide an array of delectable bites, like tuna tartare tostadas and smoked salmon wontons, while local…
Over 5,000 pounds of bacon will be sizzling at Broncos Stadium during this celebration of everyone’s favorite pork product. Depending on the whims of more than 30 Denver chefs from top restaurants like Tap Fourteen and A Southern Soul, the cured-and-smoked meat will be used liberally in delights like donuts and grilled cheese. Between bacon-y…
Instead of making mom breakfast in bed again, have your favorite lady dress up, dine out, and luxuriate at this high-end brunch affair. The butter-sauteed Langostino lobster, vanilla pancake bar, and Blackberry Cheesecake Flambé are sure to beat your burnt-toast-and-OJ spread. Plus, she'll get to wash her meal down with mimosas, aperitifs, and off-the-wall whiskey…
Fans of Mountain Crust Catering's nosh-worthy pizzas can soon enjoy its thin-crust delights on demand, starting at this grand opening celebration. Attendees will find many of the same pies that grace the eatery's mobile menu, including the mushroom-bacon-and-truffle oil Mushroom Mountain and the classic A-Basin Margarita—all for half price. Be sure to grab a cocktail…
If you've always wanted to see a Wild West duel, the cocktail competition at this festival will have the same fighting spirit (minus the casualties). At this celebration, eight Colorado craft distilleries like Axe and the Oak and Mile High Spirits will face off with their tastiest gimlets, daiquiris, and mules for you and your…
Julep’s Kyle Foster, Hearth & Dram’s Adam Viro, and more than 40 of Denver’s best chefs will duke it out for top honors from guests and judges at this prepared-poultry battle. Wash your saucy drumsticks and fried chicken sandwiches down with a myriad of mixed drinks crafted by participating chefs—who will also compete for a…
Soulful blues, tasty brews, and mouth-watering BBQ create a tantalizing trio at this three-day mountain festival. Eight musical acts, such as roots rock band Larkin Poe, will take the stage throughout the weekend while chefs from Beaver Creek and barbeque mecca Kansas City smoke, roast, and grill staples like spare ribs and pulled pork. If…
Whether you work an appetite up exploring Denver Premium Outlets' vibrant play area or perusing its bevy of stores like Kate Spade New York, there will be no shortage of nosh-worthy food to satiate it at this kick-off event. Find food truck delights like brisket-topped green chile mac n' cheese from The Bunkhouse Trailer and…
The nostalgic finesse of vinyl records playing on a pair of Stanton T.62 M2 players will still fill this RiNo brewery at its recurring event—but this month will be a little different. In addition to buying records on site from Something Vinyl Club (options will span from vintage to contemporary indie and punk rock tunes)…
Shake your taste buds from their bland breakfast routine at this decadent event. Over 20 Colorado whiskey aristans, including Deerhammer and Bear Creek Distillery, will dole out sips of barrel-aged bourbon, rye, and single malt, while six more of Denver’s top bakers will share their sugary concoctions—look for Habit Doughnut Dispensary’s buttery brioche creations, infused…
Solve your culinary indecisiveness with this mobile nosh-fest, where more than 30 food trucks will prepare just about every type of food imaginable to pair with a slew of tequila and whiskey-based cocktails. Change your mind as much as you want between fare like hot links from Rolling Smoke Barbecue, lamb tacos from Baba's Falafel,…
Savor Snooze's exquisite cinnamon roll and pineapple upside down pancakes (sans the typically merciless brunch line) at this nighttime soiree. First, work up your appetite with a 5k or 10k run along the tranquil Platte River Trail. After, you'll reconvene at Union Station where an impressive breakfast spread waits, boasting the aforementioned flapjacks as well…
A Saturday morning of bubbly mimosas and a breakfast buffet doesn’t get much better—that is, until puppies are added to the mix. At this feel-good brunch event, the special guests (of all ages and breeds) will come from MaxFund Animal Shelter for cuddles, kisses, and the chance at a new home. If you’re not quite…
Finally, a beer fest that doesn’t require a sitter. While you sip brews from local establishments like Boulder Beer Company, your little ones can enjoy face painting, a water balloon fight, and a magic demonstration in a specially-designated kid zone. Then, come together to top off the night with quesadillas from Ricky’s Island Cafe and…
University of Colorado alum-turned-vintner Charles Bieler has become known for his cross-country trips in his trademark pink Cadillac convertible. To celebrate 20 years since his first nationwide escapade, he's visiting 40 U.S. cities, including Denver. Although he won't be in his classic Caddy—it combusted during a stop in Detroit—he'll still be making pitstops in a…
Sample all the boozy possibilities of Vapor Distillery's Boulder Ginskey at this cocktail competition. The hybrid nature of the whiskey barrel-aged gin makes for myriad drink combinations, and mixologists from beloved Boulder eateries, like Mateo's Chris Johnson, will use that versatility to craft surprise cocktails for a panel of judges that will include tastemakers such…
Whether you're burnt out on beer or looking to wind down without wine, there's no better night to venture out and try something new than on the eve of National Bourbon Day. Those looking to imbibe with insight can sit in on a workshop, where they'll get a lesson on the differences between whiskey and…
Signal summer’s arrival to your taste buds with a cold IPA and plate of smoky barbecue at Arvada’s answer to this seasonal staple. More than 25 local breweries—including Denver Beer Co. and Spice Trade Brewing—will serve up sudsy samples, while attendees vote for their favorite fare from 10 amateur grillmasters (the fastest to submit their…
You'll feel like you're in ancient Inca at this party dedicated to the tradition of Inti Raymi, or the Festival of the Sun. To commemorate the day, the Dos Luces Brewery is releasing Túpac Amaru III, a barrel-aged Imperial Chicha inspired by the empire's last indigenous monarch and similar to the Inca's traditional corn-based beer.…
Everything about this charitable dinner feels like summertime. From the twinkly light-speckled patio, to the live bluegrass tunes performed by musician Joe Lessard, to the open fire pits over which chef Kevin Grossi will cook the evening's five-course meal. The dinner—which benefits local non-profit the Growing Project—will be prepared around whichever fresh produce is picked…
Enthusiasts on the hunt for Denver’s best barbacoa or al pastor can end their search at this mouthwatering contest, which corrals the city’s best taco creators into one delicious day. More than 50 nosh-worthy eateries will compete for both audience and judge awards, including defending People’s Choice champ Adobo Food Truck and Los Chingones’ with…
Celebrate wine the Colorado way: at 8,750 feet. Attendees can personalize four vino-filled days with their choice of seminars, tastings, cooking demonstrations, and gourmet meals, such as a lecture from award-winning sommelier and Food Network alum Christie Dufault. Whatever you choose, you’ll get to sample sips from over 20 renowned winemakers, including local favorites Vinne…
If you've been craving Caribbean flavor without the pricey plane ticket, this seafood-packed all-day party has got you covered. The restaurant, best-known for its oyster offerings, will offer up grilled jerk ribs, citrus-grilled chicken, spice-slathered grilled spiny lobster, pasta salad, and slaw. At the bar, they'll be pouring up plenty of island-style drinks (umbrellas might…
If you like “Chopped”, you can look forward to the same competitive culinary spirit at this live, national cooking contest. Contestants (both professional and amateur Denver chefs are welcome to sign up) will be challenged with surprise ingredients. They’ll then have 60 minutes to transform these 15 to 20 components—including a few sourced from Colorado…
What's the best brew in all of Colorado? It's hard question—but this lively competition aims to answer it. West End Tavern is kicking off their month-long celebration of India Pale Ales with this battle of the brews, which will include a dozen different concoctions for audience members to sip and judge. The drinker unenthused by…
Escape grill duty with this food truck nosh-fest, where over 30 mobile eateries will churn out all your Fourth of July favorites. Try a loaded wiener from Billy's Gourmet Hot Dogs, a rack of ribs from Big G's BBQ, and so much more. In between sets from local DJs and bands including rock group the…
As the summer warms up, give your tastebuds a chance to do the same at this fundraiser for the annual Flatirons Food Film Festival. Eat your way through smoked duck mole, beet poke, vegetarian samosas, and other heat-inspired dishes from ten of Boulder and Denver’s top-tier restaurants, including Flagstaff House and Basta. If things get…
Sip your way through three vino-centric days anchored by varietals from both around the world and around the block. Choose from a plethora of events, such as the Pairsine Food and Wine Pairing Competition, which sees ten chefs, like Fruition’s Alex Seidel, compete with their best small-plate complement to two award-winning wines. For a true…
Savor vino as you put your fly-fishing skills to the test at this philanthropic party. Practice reeling with rods from five fly-fishing rod makers, including Orvis and G Loomis, as you imbibe wine samples from Cakebread Cellars and Mullan Road Cellar. Once you've worked up an appetite, savor Catering by Design bites like BBQ buffalo…
A light-strewn Larimer Square will combine its vibrant outdoor atmosphere with mouth-watering fare for this indulgent summer dining experience. Posh restaurants, including Ocean Prime and Rioja, will stop traffic and expand its fresh-air seating areas well into the street for a dining paradise that spans the entire block. Reserve a spot at your favorite of…
While noshing on some of Denver's finest foods at this eclectic gourmet fest, remember: it's a marathon not a sprint. With 24 participating restaurants, a steady pace will allow you to savor a crisp egg roll from Tommy's Thai, chow down on a slice of NY-style pizza from Fat Sully's, and still have room for…
There's no shortage of food and wine festivals in Colorado, but few boast the attendance of the country's highest winery. Continental Divide Winery (which, at 10,361 feet, currently owns the impressive title) will be joined by almost 40 more wine-makers from elsewhere in Colorado—including Boulder’s Vinnie Fera and Palisade’s Talon Wine Brands—and all over the…
Dine on four courses brimming with freshly-picked goodies amidst fragrant lavender fields at this true farm-to-table experience. Brewers Association executive chef Adam Dulye and acclaimed cuisinier of Paris’ Le Grand Bain, Edward Delling-Williams, will prepare the dinner and dessert curated around the most ripe ingredients from Longmont’s the Fresh Herb Co. Expect elevated dishes featuring…
Even if a getaway to Cabo or Cancun isn’t in the cards this summer, you can still imbibe a few nips of the country’s signature spirit at this Latin-focused fest. Warm up your taste buds with sips poured by Mexican Moonshine, Don Julio, and more than 10 other brands, or sample tequila based cocktails like…
Wine and chocolate make a fine combination for February, but beer-plus-ice cream is the pairing of our summer dreams—come taste why at this party. Inside both Denver Beer Co. tap rooms (LoHi and Arvada) savor five Little Man Ice Cream scoops alongside five brews, all created especially for this pairing. Look forward to duos like…
For twenty years, this restaurant has lit up Five Points with its kind people and flavorful Caribbean cuisine. To celebrate its second decade, Five Points Development Corporation, a black-owned community investor, is throwing this birthday bash filled with free food, festivities, and fun. Sway to local jazz band Danette Hollowell and the Old Souls, or…
New Orlean’s crown jewel bar—dubbed “the coolest in the world,”—will come to Denver, with its finely curated cheese plates and constant stream of live New Orleans jazz in tow. The expanse of the Source’s parking lot will channel Bacchanal’s lush patio vibes with tropical plants and tunes from Big Easy jazz bands Harmanouche and the…
This celebration of sustainable farming and cooks takes diners back to a time before gas stoves and barbecues. More than 25 Colorado chefs, butchers, and restaurateurs, including the Populist’s Theo Adley, will build their own flames and cook a total of about 2,500 pounds of meat from heritage-breed animals like pig and lamb for a…
If you haven't been able to venture over to the Western Slope—or if you're not a peach person yet—this week is your chance to dabble in all things Palisade without having to leave the city. Bonanno Concepts, the group behind restaurants such as Luca and Mizuna, is infusing peaches into every one of its menus.…
Colorado has its fair share of summer food and wine fests, but the organizers of this cozy fest envisioned an affair more intimate than the rest. With attendance for each of the eight events capped at 50, you’ll get to know your cohorts well while sabre-ing and sipping your own bottles of champagne, tasting varietals…
Savor, cook, and even forage for your own mushrooms at this fungi-focused gathering. Start with the former at Friday night’s six-course dinner with dishes like a mushroom and yellow beet risotto, prepared by Durango Mountain Club’s executive chef Joseph Albright. On Saturday, put your culinary skills to the test with a mushroom cooking and wine…
With more than 200 whiskeys and beers to sample at this wild west soiree, we recommend pacing yourself. Distilleries from Colorado and across the nation, including Parker’s Weaver Spirits, will pour everything from rye to single malt, while brewmasters from establishments like Boulder Beer Co. will dish out their own sudsy samples. If a the…
Colorado's landlocked status won't stop you from enjoying seaside delights at this nautical bash. Don your finest boating attire to feast on a New England-style crab boil replete with fresh snow crab and gulf shrimp, as well as maritime-esque appetizers like caviar deviled eggs and grilled oysters. Sure, the party may not take place on…
To benefit Boulder nonprofit Attention Homes, which serves the area's homeless youth, GB Culinary is attempting to do the impossible: combine fire and ice. The Boulder-based boutique caterer and small farm, is taking your taste buds for a turn with an Earth-inspired menu by combining numerous hot and cold ingredients and flavors. Hors d’oeuvres like…
As summer quickly fades into fall, Uptown mainstay Beast & Bottle is hosting this three-course patio dinner and wine pairing to savor the last tastes of the sunny season. Chef Paul C. Reilly will prepare some never-before-seen menu items, including a fresh-from-the-market starter of crispy eggplant and zucchini crudo with olive vinaigrette, which sommelier JP…
If you’d rather not decide between this mountain town’s rich dining scene and its outdoor excellence, this dynamic festival marries the two. The weekend’s largest happening is the open-air tasting, where around 30 chefs from restaurants like Sweet Basil will provide nibbles paired with vino from more than 50 international and Colorado wineries, such as…
Foodies looking to cross names off their culinary bucket list can do so at this more than 100-restaurant soirée. For an in-depth dining experience, check out the culinary showcases, such as “The Grateful Table,” which seats guests on Liberati Osteria and Oenobeers’ massive patio for a five-course dinner. Or, to cover more culinary ground, explore…
Since 2010, this gathering has evolved from an intimate potluck to an entire carnival—but its cornerstone hasn’t wavered: community. This bash celebrates the Westwood neighborhood’s 81-percent Hispanic population, with events like a chile-eating contest and authentic fare like street-style tacos from Kahlo’s and Los Dulches Brewery’s chicha, a fermented South American sipper. Proceeds from the…
At this Italian extravaganza, you might just mistake Belmar for a coast off the Meditereanan. Take in shows, demonstrations, and live art installations from nearly 30 performers, including music by Italian jazz group Five Amicis, and treat your tastebuds to pizzas and pastas from Italian Flame Foods, Nonna’s on the Go, and nearly 20 other…
Settle the contentious question of where to get the best slice in the Mile High City at this pizza-centric bash. First, sample pies from more than 20 local restaurants—including Marco’s Coal Fired, Victoria’s Gluten Free Kitchen, and Denver Pizza Co.—adorned with toppings like fig and prosciutto or banana peppers. While you seek out the superb…
Spend Mexican Independence Day sampling the best spirits produced South of the Border at this traveling showcase. Along with more than 100 mezcals, look forward to rum samples from brands like Oaxacan producer Gustoso Aguardiente and whiskey sips from nearly a dozen Mexican makers, such as Michoacan producer Sierra Norte. Couple your booze with nachos…
Autumn in Colorado doesn’t just mean the Aspens are turning, it also means cider season is officially here. You can help usher in fall at this celebration, which boasts more than three dozen local cideries and beer makers, including Stem Ciders and Breckenridge Brewery. Don’t miss the grand tasting, where in addition to unlimited cider…
If you’ve never heard of the Big Green Egg, be prepared to learn about the combination ceramic grill and charcoal smoker at this festival, put on by the grill’s company. The contraption will be the exclusive cooking tool for the party’s grilling competition. Since there aren’t any cuisine limitations, look forward to no-holds-barred dishes that…
