Best of Boulder 2020 by Boulder Weekly

OF COUNTY 2020

The winners of our annual reader poll, plus our take on whatâ€™s best about living in Boulder County Dayna McRoberts of Rayback Collective, Best Place to Eat Outdoors

The Feeling Is Mutual Voted Boulder’s Best Liquor Store Eight Years In A Row

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BESTOFBOULDERCOUNTY

SUSAN FRANCE

OF COUNTY 2020

About this year’s edition

elcome to the 24th annual Best of Boulder™ publication — arguably our oddest one yet. Every year, Boulder Weekly invites readers to vote for all their favorite restaurants, bars, gyms, schools and all the other businesses that make living here so great. You see, all year long we tell you what to see, what to do, what to eat and drink in our weekly print editions. Best of Boulder is your chance to tell us what you think makes Boulder County the place to be. What follows are the top vote-getters, a resource for what to do and how to do it all year long. But this year was different, wasn’t it? We like to joke around the office about how life was in “the before times” — you know what we mean. And, like a lot of humor, there’s more than a kernel of truth to it. As you flip through these pages, please note that these winners

represent the before times. As we went to press in June 2020, a few businesses closed up shop for good, while others had pivoted their business model to suit the needs of the present. Putting this year’s Best of Boulder results together was bittersweet. While it reminded us of what we love about this county, it also reminded us of what we were missing on a daily basis: Walking across the street for a cup of coffee whenever we feel like it. Deciding on what to get for dinner tonight — and then showing up, realizing that that’s not what we’re in the mood for, calling an audible and going across the street for a taco. We miss going to concerts — hell, we even miss sitting next to a sweaty stranger at a show. Well, maybe just a stranger, those sweaty people need to clean up their act. We miss seeing movies in the theater, buying books in a bookstore,

perusing the racks at second-hand shops, grabbing a waffle cone with two scoops at 2:15 p.m. (because it’s been one of those days), starting happy hour at one brewery then moving to another because the view’s better. But there’s plenty of reason for optimism. As we send this edition of Best of Boulder out into the community, we’re seeing businesses adapt to the rapidly changing times. We’re seeing the good folks in our community help those in need. And over the course of 2020, many of the businesses in this issue will be operating just as they were in “the

before times” — maybe now we’ll all just appreciate them more. So, as always, use this as a resource the next time you’re in the mood for pho or need a tire change or want to set up a bank account, but be sure to check with the businesses themselves to see their hours of operation and find out any requirements to access their offerings. And please — please — do get out there, in whatever capacity you feel safe, and support the businesses that make this county tick. Congrats to the winners and thanks to the readers. We’ll see you out there.

FOOD 12......DRINK 38......ENTERTAINMENT & CULTURE 46......FITNESS & HEALTH 60......RETAIL 70 STAFF

Publisher, Fran Zankowski Special Editions Editor, Michael J. Casey Circulation Manager, Cal Winn

EDITORIAL

SALES AND MARKETING

Editor, Matt Cortina Senior Editor, Angela K. Evans Arts and Culture Editor, Caitlin Rockett

PRODUCTION

Art Director, Susan France Senior Graphic Designer, Mark Goodman Graphic Designer, Daisy Bauer

10 JUNE 18, 2020

Market Development Manager, Kellie Robinson Account Executives, Matthew Fischer, Sami Wainscott Advertising Coordinator, Corey Basciano Mrs. Boulder Weekly, Mari Nevar

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

GENERAL

Cover photo: Dayna

Circulation Team, Dave Hastie, Dan Hill, George LaRoe, Jeffrey Lohrius, Elizabeth Ouslie, Rick Slama Bookkeeper, Regina Campanella Founder/CEO, Stewart Sallo Editor-at-Large, Joel Dyer

McRoberts, general manager at The Rayback Collective (Photo by Susan France)

BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY A-Z Page numbers listed next to category. A Acupuncture (62) Advanced Education (54) Alternative Health Care Provider (64) American Restaurant (26) Appetizers/Tapas (13) Arcade Games (58) Art Gallery (56) Arts & Crafts Supplies (90) Asian Fusion (20) Auto Dealer - New (88) Auto Dealer - Used (78) Auto Detailing (83) Auto Service/Repair (75) B Bagel (18) Bakery (31) Bank (54) Bar (40) Barbecue (32) Barber Shop (60) Bath/Body Shop (76) Beer Selection (44) Bicycle Shop (92) Bookstore (75) Breakfast/Brunch (21) Burger (21) Burrito (23) Business Lunch (19) C Camera/Video/ Photofinishing (75)

BOULDER WEEKLY

Carpet/Flooring (76) Catering (13) CD/Record Store (76) Chai (41) Chinese (21) Chiropractor (65) Chocolatier (18) Cidery (44) Classical Music (venue) (53) Clothing - Children’s (82) Clothing - Men’s (89) Clothing - Used (80) Clothing - Women’s (78) Cocktail (42) Coffee House (44) Coffee Roaster (40) Company Owned by a Female CEO (89) Computer - Repair (70) Computer - Retail (88) Costume Shop (86) Craft Brewery (42) Cup of Coffee (41) D Dance Studio (60) Day Spa (66) Dental Care (62) Distillery (38) Dry Cleaner (82) E East County Restaurant (20) F Farm (88)

Festival/Event (nonmusic) (56) Fine Dining (34) Florist (89) Food Delivery (18) Food on the Hill (32) Food Truck (12) Furniture (80) G Gift Store (72) Gluten-Free Menu (12) Golf Course (62) Grocery Store (74) Gym/Fitness Center (66) H Hair Salon (65) Happy Hour (38) Hardware Store (92) Hot Tub/Jacuzzi (74) Hotel (92) Hydroponic Store (92) I Ice Cream (12) Indian (20) Indoor Climbing Gym (64) Italian (22) J Japanese (23) Jeweler (91) Juice/Smoothie (43) K Kid-Friendly Restaurant (14) Kitchen Supplies (86)

L Lasik Services (62) Late Night Food (24) Latte/Mocha (42) Law Firm (89) Lingerie (87) Liquor Store (70) Live Dance Group (54) Live Jazz Venue (53) Live Theater Group (53) Local Celebrity (48) Local Musician/Group (48) Lyons Restaurant (35) M Margarita (43) Martial Arts (62) Massage (66) Mattress Store (83) Medical Facility (64) Mexican (28) MMJ Evaluation Service (62) MMJ Dispensary (68) Movie House/ Theater (52) Moving Company (79) Museum (53) Music Festival (46) Music Store (72) Music Venue (58) N Nail Salon (68) Natural Foods Store (74) Nederland Restaurant (15) New Business (72) New Restaurant (16)

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

Non-Profit/Charity Organization (48) O Open Mic (venue) (54) Optical Store (86) Organic Restaurant (26) Outdoor Gear (91) Overall Restaurant (26) P Pancake/Waffle (16) Performing Arts Venue (57) Pet Boarding (65) Pet Store (73) Pho (35) Pilates Studio (66) Pipe Shop (84) Pizza Restaurant (15) Pizza Slice (34) Place to Dance (48) Place to Eat Outdoors (36) Place to Go on a First Date (30) Place to Play Pool (57) Place to Wi-Fi (57) Private School (58) R Real Estate Group (87) Recreational Marijuana Dispensary (66) Restaurant Ambiance (22) Restaurant Dessert (28) Restaurant Service (32)

S Sandwich (21) Seafood (36) Shoe Store (84) Ski/Snowboard Shop (73) Skin Care Services (64) Solar Systems (82) Sports Bar (58) Stereo/Electronics Store (86) Storage Facility (73) Summer Camp (57) Sushi (36) T Taco (16) Take Out (22) Tattoo/Piercing Parlor (73) Teahouse (41) Thai (13) Tire Shop (73) Tobacco Shop (84) Toy Store (79) V Veggie Burger (35) Vegetarian Friendly (35) Veterinary Care (66) Video/DVD/Game Store (86) W Wine Selection (41) Wings (24) Y Yoga Studio (62)

JUNE 18, 2020 11

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OF COUNTY 2020

FOOD GLUTEN-FREE MENU

FRESH THYMES EATERY

2500 30th St., Unit 101, 303-955-7988 Silver: Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant Bronze: Shine Restaurant & Potion Bar Write-in: Flower Child

resh Thymes Eatery is a JESSICA ESSEX, fresh take on food. It is KITCHEN a comfortable spot that MANAGER AT blends meals friendly to FRESH THYMES any number of dietary EATERY restrictions with sustainable sourcing, a casual environment and tasty food. Menus change with the seasons and what’s available from local farms. Not giving into the idea that healthy food has to be anything but delectable, these folks make truly delicious gluten-free fare, from their main courses down to their baked goods and desserts. Try the gluten-free pizza with your choice of fresh, unique toppings.

ICE CREAM

SWEET COW ICE CREAM

2628 Broadway, 303-447-3269 669 S. Broadway, 303-494-4269 637 Front St., Louisville, 303-666-4269 Silver: Glacier Homemade Ice Cream & Gelato Bronze: Gelato Boy

n good times and in bad times, we get ice cream. It doesn’t matter if it’s sweltering hot outside or a blowing whiteout — ice cream does the trick. And for Boulder Weekly readers, no one does it better than Sweet Cow Ice Cream. How many years have you awarded them the winner now? With the world in constant upheaval, it’s nice to know there’s a place we can go and forget all about it for a couple of sweet and creamy bites. Try Larry’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Madness in a waffle cone, or D’s Mint Cookies and Cream in a cup. Take milk and cereal to a new level with a scoop of Lucky Charms atop a scoop of Super Delicious Vanilla. Go wild and report back on your favorite combinations. FOOD TRUCK

MCDEVITT TACO SUPPLY

Mobile, 720-573-4194 Silver: Verde Bronze: Los Dos Bros Food Truck Write-in: Butcher & The Blonde

e’re glad McDevitt Taco Supply has a brick and mortar location in South Boulder, but we’re also glad it’s got a taco truck to bring its unique, succulent taco variations throughout the community. We’re talking chocolate chipotle beef, Thai ginger tilapia, buffalo cauliflower, Caribbean jerk, kimchi pork, and garlic and black pepper steak tacos, to name just a few. McDevitt is always innovating, so every visit to the truck is a novel experience.

12 JUNE 18, 2020

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

food

SUSAN FRANCE

THAI RESTAURANT

APPETIZERS/TAPAS

2720 Canyon Blvd., 303-440-2903 Silver: Chez Thuy Bronze: Buddha Thai Cuisine Write-in: Folsom Thai Cuisine

1002 Walnut St. (closed) Silver: Brasserie Ten Ten (closed) Bronze: The Kitchen Write-in: McDevitt Taco Supply

ALOY THAI CUISINE

THE MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

here are plenty of great Thai restaurants in ARISA CHANCHOKBoulder, which makes winning this category PONG, LEFT, AND such a special feat. But it’s no wonder our readers BO BEAN HELP OUT IN THE KITCHEN AT chose Aloy Thai Cuisine as their favorite — its dishALOY THAI CUISINE. es have the trademark balance of flavor, color and texture we all love about Thai food. Enjoy it in Aloy Thai’s curries, noodle dishes, fried rice plates, soups and salads. Our guess is you’ve enjoyed Aloy Thai’s food before, but if you haven’t, we also guess you’ll become a regular in no time.

ating tapas at The Mediterranean Restaurant is a quintessential Boulder dining experience. Or it was — The Med closed in June 2020. But its tapas menu will be dearly missed: polenta con miele (crispy polenta, Prosciutto di Parma, blue cheese and chamomile honey), the bacon-wrapped Medjool dates and the aceitunas al horno (steamed Manila clams with chorizo, garlic and stewed bell peppers and onions.) Cold plates included cheese and charcuterie plates, or the hummus, burrata or tuna tartare (served with oranges, jalapenos, olives, toasted olives and a lime soy vinaigrette). Sorry if we made the goodbye harder.

CATERING

A SPICE OF LIFE

5541 Central Ave., Suite 272, 303-443-4049 Silver: McDevitt Taco Supply Bronze: Cured Write-in: Savory Cuisines Catering

hen you’re looking for a catering service, there’s no question you’re about to host a special event. Whether that’s a wedding, milestone anniversary, holiday party or professional event, A Spice of Life is where our readers turn when they want to impress their guests. Not only does this community-focused business make food that will have your guests asking you for the caterer’s number all night, but A Spice of Life is also a community leader in sustainability, focused on recycling, composting and zero-waste practices. A Spice of Life’s event coordinators have partnerships with the best in the industry for flowers, music, photography, rentals and all of the other fine details. Whether your event meal is professionally served or delivered and set up by the staff, A Spice of Life will help make your occasion unforgettable. BOULDER WEEKLY

READERCOMMENT MCDEVITT TACO SUPPLY OFFERS SUPER-FRIENDLY SERVICE AND THEIR DELIVERY OF SAID FOOD TO THE TABLE IS THE BEST. THEIR WINGS ARE TO DIE FOR. THE TACOS, OF COURSE, ARE THE BEST. AND I LIKE THE FRIENDLY MIX OF PEOPLE EATING AT THE RESTAURANT — EVERYONE LIKES GOOD FOOD AND SINCERE SMILES.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

JUNE 18, 2020 13

food SUSAN FRANCE

VOTED BEST BIKE SHOP

THANK YOU BOULDER

FOR VOTING FOR US AS BEST BIKE SHOP IN BOULDER COUNTY FOR TWO YEARS IN A ROW! BIKE SALES, SERVICE, RENTALS, FITTING ALSO HOME TO THE TUNE UP TAPROOM, 2020 BEST SPORTS BAR WRITE-IN

KID-FRIENDLY

MOUNTAIN SUN PUBS & BREWERIES 1535 Pearl St., 303-546-0886 627 S. Broadway, 303-543-0886 627A S. Broadway, 303-927-6921 600 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont, 303-651-7886 Silver: Lucky Pie Pizza & Tap House Bronze: Noodles & Company

1795 PEARL ST. 303-440-1002

ou can take your kids just about anywhere, but that doesn’t mean they’ll feel particularly welcome everywhere — especially when it comes to those of you who like to go brewery hopping. But at Mountain Sun Pubs & Breweries, those little ones are made to feel welcome. There’s no blaring music they have to scream over, the carpet absorbs their almost constant tumbles, and warm wooden furniture makes the space feel like home. Oh, and the food is delectable and kid friendly, with French fries, quesadillas and grilled cheese sandwiches. You got to take ‘em out sometime, so do it on the good foot.

www.FullCycleBikes.com

14 JUNE 18, 2020

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

food SUSAN FRANCE

Best Thai Restaurant 6 YEARS IN A ROW

THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US!

133 S. MCCASLIN BLVD, LOUISVILLE • 303-665-0330 WWW.BUSABACO.COM LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

PIZZA RESTAURANT

PIZZERIA LOCALE

1730 Pearl St., 303-442-3003 Silver: Audrey Jane’s Pizza Garage Bronze: Proto’s Pizzeria Napoletana

eople can be picky about their pizza. Some like the Chicago deep dish with its thick doughy crust. Others like the thinly crusted flatbread varieties or the rectangular thick Sicilian pies. But our readers skew toward Neapolitan style, like the kind found at Pizzeria Locale. The pies at this elegant yet casual restaurant are made to order with any assortment of toppings you choose. It’s so good, the flagship Boulder location has spawned fast-casual restaurants all around the metro area.

NEDERLAND RESTAURANT

KATHMANDU RESTAURANT

110 N. Jefferson St., 303-258-1169 Silver: Backcountry Pizza Bronze: Crosscut Pizzeria & Taphouse Write-in: Busey Brews

hat’s not to love about Kathmandu Restaurant? At our readers’ much beloved Nederland eatery, you can enjoy traditional Nepalese and Indian food made from scratch using original family recipes. All dishes are prepared using fresh ingredients and are also available for take-out. If you’ve had a late day out on the hiking trails around Nederland, take comfort in knowing you can seek the comfort of Kathmandu’s full menu until 9 p.m. daily. The menu is extensive, so take your time. Maybe convince a friend to share some of the tandoori chicken — tender yogurt-marinated chicken on the bone served atop a hot and savory bed of onions and peppers — in exchange for a bite of your spicy lamb vindaloo, served with tender potatoes. BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

JUNE 18, 2020 15

food SUSAN FRANCE

NEW RESTAURANT

TACO

T/ACO

1175 Walnut St., 303-443-9468 Silver: bartaco Bronze: McDevitt Taco Supply Write-in: Mojo Taqueria

T/ACO OWNER PETER WATERS SERVES CUSTOMERS WITH A SMILE.

f you’re in the mood for tacos, go to the place with the food in its name. That’s what our readers say, at least. Since opening a few years ago, T/ACO has been making street tacos that are the stuff dreams are made of: just the right size, three bites and you’re done. Carnitas, mango caesar, shrimp, avocado… Whether you’re a vegan or a carnivore, T/ACO has something for you, and on TGITT (Thank Goodness It’s Taco Tuesday), it serves up $2.50 tacos all day. T/ACO rolls with the punches, too — during the coronavirus shutdowns, the company pivoted to selling (gasp) burritos. Still, tacos are the name of the game (literally), and that’s what T/ACO does best.

ROSETTA HALL

1109 Walnut St., 720-323-5509 Silver: The Bumbling Bee Vegan Junk Food Bar Bronze: Teocalli Cocina

osetta Hall is the food hall that Boulder needed. It’s an incubator and exhibition for global flavors from renowned chefs — Alberto Sabbadini at La Tigella, with Italian entrées and sandwiches; Natascha Hess at The Ginger Pig with Chinese- and Asianinspired dishes; and Rose’s Classic Americana, with fancy toasts and unique pies, to name just a few. Paired with a coffee and alcohol bar, a rooftop patio, a dining area and dance nights, Rosetta Hall does so many things well. It felt instantly essential upon its arrival in Boulder.

Best Road for Farm Food JAY ROAD

PANCAKE/WAFFLE

SNOOZE: AN A.M. EATERY

1617 Pearl St., 303-225-7344 Silver: Walnut Cafe/South Side Walnut Cafe/Super Mini Walnut Cafe Bronze: Tangerine Write-in: Doug’s Day Diner

ur readers know when they want to enter pancake utopia, they head to (or order online for delivery or pickup) Snooze: An A.M. Eatery. Our readers delight in blueberry Danish buttermilk pancakes, topped with blueberry coulis, sweet cream and almond streusel. Or Snooze’s signature sweet potato pancakes, topped with homemade caramel, candied pecans and spicy-sweet ginger butter. Can’t decide? Don’t stress! Order a pancake flight for a hotcake extravaganza.

16 JUNE 18, 2020

From east to west, you can get Mexican fare, sourdough bread, eggs and produce from The Diaz Farm, then get any number of interesting meat, produce and prepared food items at the Black Cat farm stand, then head out to Jay Hill Farm and Hoot ‘n’ Howl for more. By the end of it, you’ll be within a stone’s throw of even more East Boulder farms and farm stands.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

food CHOCOLATIER

PIECE, LOVE & CHOCOLATE

805 Pearl St., 303-449-4804 Silver: Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Bronze: Chocolove Write-in: Daydream Dessert Co.

iece, Love & Chocolate will bring you peace. That’s why Boulder Weekly readers keep voting them their favorite chocolatier — we need a whole lot of peace right now. Maybe the sipping chocolates will help (thick and rich and choc-o-late). Or the truffles (all 50 of them). And if those don’t get the job done, we know the cake will. Oh, the cake. Have you tried the flourless chocolate cake? Well, what in the world are you waiting for? Plus, if you keep flipping these pages, you’re bound to find a gym where you can sweat that cake off. Or you could get more cake. We vote cake.

BAGEL

MOE’S BROADWAY BAGEL 2650 Broadway, 303-444-3252 3267 28th St., 720-406-9000 3075 Arapahoe Ave., 303-442-4427 637 S. Broadway, 720-287-0317 1057 Courtesy Road, Louisville, 303-665-2126 Silver: Big Daddy Bagels Bronze: Woodgrain Bagels

THANK YOU BOULDER! BUY 1, GET ONE

FREE

BAGEL w/ CREAM CHEESE Expires 7/18/20

637 S. Broadway, Boulder 720.287.0317 2650 Broadway, Boulder 303.444.3252 3075 Arapahoe, Boulder 303.442.4427 3267 28th St. Boulder 720.406.9000 550 Grant, Denver 303.733.7331 1057 Courtesy Road, Louisville 303.665.2126

oe’s Broadway Bagel is a multifaceted love story — a love between two people who love bagels. Patty and John Sherman — along with their three children — have dedicated their lives to making our readers’ favorite bagels. Enjoy a taste of New York with a Manhattan breakfast bagel: thin and savory Ducktrap lox filet, housemade plain cream cheese, egg, tomato and onion sandwiched between two halves of your choice of bagel. You can choose from plain, poppy, sesame, Italian, cinnamon raisin (though maybe that’s not quite right with lox, but we’re not here to tell you how to live your life), cinnamon sugar, garlic, onion, salt, blueberry and, yes, gluten-free. If you’re not feeling a sandwich, pair a fresh bagel with some delicious homemade cream cheese: plain or plain lite, spicy jalapeno, veggie, scallion, lox, strawberry and tofu. Savory or sweet, Moe’s has you covered on all your bagel needs.

FOOD DELIVERY

SNARF’S SANDWICHES

6562 Lookout Road, 720-622-0107 2660 Pearl St., 303-444-7766 637 S. Broadway, 303-444-7714 5340 Arapahoe Ave., 303-444-3404 (Two Longmont locations) Silver: Cosmo’s Pizza Bronze: Abo’s Pizza

t says a lot about Boulder Weekly readers that you prefer sandwiches delivered to your front door over pizza or Chinese food. Then again, sandwiches tend to have more lettuce and sprouts than your average piece of pizza or dish of sesame chicken. Our readers’ favorite delivery, Snarf’s Sandwiches, does hunger-crushing salads too. When Snarf’s shows up on your stoop, you’ll be ready to chow down on the spot. Whether you eat al fresco on the front porch or make it inside to the dining room table, a Snarf’s delivery won’t be around long.

Visit us at moesbagel.com 18 JUNE 18, 2020

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

food SUSAN FRANCE

We’ve made it and it’s

THANKS to YOU, Boulder! DINE IN & TAKE OUT

Fresh Pasta & Sauces In Bulk

BUSINESS LUNCH

OAK AT FOURTEENTH

1400 Pearl St., 303-444-3622 Silver: Brasserie Ten Ten (closed) Bronze: The Mediterranean Restaurant (closed)

o your team, associates or prospective business partners need to get stuff done, but you’re also hungry? Our readers say OAK at fourteenth is the place to cross both needs off the checklist. That’s because OAK has an approachable, yet sophisticated and innovative, menu you can enjoy in a comfortable dining room with a clean, modern aesthetic. Plus, it’s a great value — you can’t get this quality of food at such an affordable price practically anywhere else, so HR won’t freak out about your expense report. And is there any better way to cap off a business meeting than with an artisan doughnut?

Write-In Winner: Best Taco Write-in Winner: Best Margarita Silver Winner: Best Lyons Restaurant visit us at one of our two locations! lyons & boulder

BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

MOJOTAQUERIA.COM I

JUNE 18, 2020 19

food SUSAN FRANCE

ASIAN FUSION

INDIAN

CHEZ THUY

SHERPA’S ADVENTURERS RESTAURANT & BAR

2655 28th St., 303-442-1700 Silver: Aloy Thai Cuisine Bronze: Hapa Sushi Grill & Sake Bar Write-in: Fuji Cafe & Bar

825 Walnut St., 303-440-7151 Silver: Curry ‘N’ Kebob Bronze: Kathmandu Restaurant Write-in: Sherpa Kitchen (Formerly Tadka Indian Cuisine)

et’s be honest: Chez Thuy is the popular kid at school, and we all want a seat at that lunch table. Or dinner table. Or both, as our readers really can’t rave enough about Chez Thuy. The sign may say Vietnamese, but Chez Thuy embodies Asian fusion to the core with cuisine that blends ingredients and cooking techniques from a variety of origins, including French, Chinese, Thai and Indonesian, all rooted in the flavors of owner Chef Thuy’s Saigon upbringing. Using a variety of high-quality meats, seafood and seasonings, each dish is rich in authentic flavors and spices.

Best Flatiron FOURTH FLATIRON

hen Sherpa’s Adventurers Restaurant & Bar opened in 2002, it took a different approach to the restaurant business. Our readers love to enjoy Sherpa’s authentic Himalayan cuisine while they peruse the “traveler’s lounge” filled with books that can guide you on your next (or first!) trip to the Himalayan region. Enjoy delicious appetizers like papadums, samosa and saag dig, then order up some hot fresh naan to scoop up savory korma. Tibetan thupka is comfort food if ever there was one, with tender chicken or lamb swimming in a bowl of noodles and fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth. Come with an appetite for both food and adventure.

EAST COUNTY RESTAURANT

EFRAIN’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT & CANTINA

Chances are you’ve got a favorite Flatiron. For us, it’s the fourth, one of the lesser traveled terrains of our iconic diagonal rock structures. It’s bigger than the third (superficial points for that), and there hardly any clean climbing lines, making it a challenge for Boulder climbers. That also means it’s daunting for the amateur climber, and so you hardly ever see any of those harrowing news stories about late-night rescues. 20 JUNE 18, 2020

101 E. Cleveland St., Lafayette, 303-666-7544 Silver: The Post Brewing Co. Bronze: The Huckleberry Write-in: Teocalli Cocina

hen our Boulder readers find themselves hungry in East County, the Lafayette location of Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina is their choice for dining out. That’s likely because the dining room is comfortable and lively, and the food is unparalleled. Nibble on chips and salsa before diving into a burrito, tacos or meat- or veggie-centric entrées. Wash everything down with one of a variety of margaritas for the full Efrain’s experience.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

THANK YOU BOULDER!

food BREAKFAST/BRUNCH

LUCILE’S CREOLE CAFE

2124 14th St., 303-442-4743 518 Kimbark St., Longmont, 303-774-9814 Silver: Tangerine Bronze: Walnut Cafe/South Side Walnut Cafe/Super Mini Walnut Cafe Write-in: Foolish Craig’s Cafe

for voting us best pilates studio

oh, baby. Nothing beats a breakfast or brunch at Lucile’s Creole Cafe. First, the homey dining areas make for a fun, relaxing place to eat. But what separates Lucile’s, of course, is the food: so good and filling a brunch might suffice for all the food you need to eat that day. Start with beignets and coffee, and move onto entrées like red beans and rice, eggs Pontchartrain, blackened salmon or pain perdu — all New Orleans classics done right. Wash it all down with one of the best bloody marys in town (or two), and you’ll be stylin’.

SANDWICH

SNARF’S SANDWICHES

6562 Lookout Road, 720-622-0107 2660 Pearl St., 303-444-7766 637 S. Broadway, 303-444-7714 5340 Arapahoe Ave., 303-444-3404 (Two Longmont locations) Silver: Organic Sandwich Company Bronze: Salvaggio’s Deli Write-in: Le Frigo

We are open, with a SAFE new layout, and we can not wait to see you! Both virtual and in-person training available.

round these parts, no one does sliced meat and veggie toppings encompassed by crusty bread like Snarf’s Sandwiches. With a menu that spans meat and veggie varieties, hot and cold, toppings galore, you’ll get the sando you crave. Just don’t forget the giardiniera pepper blend with your Italian — it’s what keeps the world spinning round and round.

Visit us! 3012 Folsom Street • bolderpilates.com

BURGER

MOUNTAIN SUN PUBS & BREWERIES

1535 Pearl St., 303-546-0886 627 S. Broadway, 303-543-0886 627A S. Broadway, 303-927-6921 600 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont, 303-651-7886 Silver: World Famous Dark Horse Bar and Grill Bronze: Larkburger Write-in: Eureka!

ountain Sun Pub & Breweries reign supreme as the burger kings of Boulder County. With a perfect ratio of bread-to-meat-to-toppings, Mountain Sun’s lineup of burgers slays the competition, according to our readers. The buns are soft but provide the right amount of resistance to give the burger structure. The meat is succulent and withholds its juices until the last second, allowing it to cascade over the veggies and sealing each flavor within the whole. And don’t get us started on the toppings. Even better, each burger comes with a side of fries so delectable you might forget you ordered the burger in the first place.

CHINESE

ZOE MA MA

2010 10th St., 303-545-6262 Silver: China Gourmet Bronze: Flower Pepper Restaurant im sum? Gimme some! When our readers want the best Chinese food around, they turn to Zoe Ma Ma, where Ma Ma makes everything from scratch and with love. Start with some potstickers, made with a top-secret family recipe including pork, shrimp, garlic, chive and vegetables — vegan options available too. After that, we recommend tucking into a bowl of za jiang mian, a classic Northern Chinese noodle dish made with fresh egg noodle topped with savory ground pork sauce and julienne vegetables. Try something new — you won’t be disappointed.

BOULDER WEEKLY

Visit our award-winning local history exhibit!

2205 Broadway, Boulder 80302 • 303-449-3464

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

www.museumofboulder.org I

JUNE 18, 2020 21

food ITALIAN

CARELLI’S OF BOULDER

645 30th St., 303-938-9300 Silver: Pasta Jay’s Bronze: Il Pastaio Write-in: Basta

arelli’s of Boulder is our readers’ choice for the best Italian food in Boulder. Its expansive menu includes starters like mussels, carpaccio, bruschetta and roasted olives. It then moves into soups, salads and pastas, including ravioli, spaghetti Bolognese, fettuccini alfredo and delicate angel hair aglio e olio. Chicken, fish, veal and other meats are featured in classic Italian preparations like piccata, Parmigiana and marsala. And don’t forget the pizza, paninis and calzones.

TAKE OUT

SNARF’S SANDWICHES

6562 Lookout Road, 720-622-0107 2660 Pearl St., 303-444-7766 637 S. Broadway, 303-444-7714 5340 Arapahoe Ave., 303-444-3404 (Two Longmont locations) Silver: Aloy Thai Cuisine Bronze: Chez Thuy

ome restaurants were built for times like these, and Snarf’s Sandwiches is one such spot. With its handy-dandy ordering app, you can safely and remotely make all your sandwich decisions from an appropriately distanced space. And then take that perfectly packaged sandwich and shove it in your backpack, your purse, your glovebox — whatever — and head to the high country, the park, even your couch. Nothing transports as well as a sandwich, and nothing eats as clean in the wild. And if you get yours with Snarf’s signature giardiniera peppers, you’ll want for nothing.

RESTAURANT AMBIANCE

BOULDER DUSHANBE TEA HOUSE

1770 13th St., 303-442-4993 Silver: Flagstaff House Bronze: The Mediterranean Restaurant (closed)

hether you are looking to go on your first date or your 101st date, Boulder Dushanbe Tea House is the place our readers go for the best restaurant ambiance. Everywhere you look is a work of art, since more than 40 artisans in several cities in Tajikistan — one of Boulder’s sister cities — created the intricate decorative elements of this beloved local establishment. The dining room is filled with natural light, and if you’re sitting at one of the tables on the south side of the dining room, you can see Boulder Creek flow past. Grab an outside patio seat if you’d like to hear the creek as well as watch it.

22 JUNE 18, 2020

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

food SUSAN FRANCE

THANKS BOULDER

for making us the top write in candidate!! We’ll see you next year on the ballot!

SPECIALIZING IN WEDDINGS, SPECIAL EVENTS & CORPORATE CATERING 5741 Arapahoe Ave #1A • Boulder, CO 80303 303.440.1016 • www.savorycuisines.com

JAPANESE

SUSHI ZANMAI

1221 Spruce St., 303-440-0733 Silver: Hapa Sushi Grill & Sake Bar Bronze: Japango Write-in: AOI Sushi & Izakaya

Ma Ma Says ...

n Japanese, zanmai can mean “ambition,” but it also translates to “indulgence.” The menu at Sushi Zanmai is both indulgent in its wide array of sushi offerings and classic Japanese dishes, as well as ambitious in its breadth, serving everything from udon noodles to grilled teriyaki meats like yakiniku (thinly sliced beef) and yakitori (chicken). Plus, the appetizers could make meals in and of themselves with dishes like a dumpling platter, gyoza, seasoned edamame and ebi shumai (pan-fried shrimp.) It’s no wonder our readers vote Sushi Zanmai the best of the best, year after year.

THANK YOU BOULDER COUNTY FOR VOTING US BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT!

BURRITO

ILLEGAL PETE’S

1447 Pearl St., 303-440-3955 1124 13th St., 303-444-3055 Silver: Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina Bronze: Santiago’s Write-in: Wapos Mexican Cocina

f you haven’t had the beer-battered fish burrito from Illegal Pete’s then you don’t know what you’re missing. A canvas-sized chewy, flour tortilla is wrapped around hot and crispy white fish, crunchy, creamy slaw, and spicy, tangy salsa (add the house hot). After that first bite, let us suggest taking a quiet moment to truly take in the glory of this burrito. Wash it down with a cold one at the bar, and, if the time is right, you may get a basket of chips tossed in. You’ve paid more for less, now pay the right amount for perfection.

Inspired by my mother’s love, I wish to share with you her signature dishes and delicious home cooking. Unlike most Americanized Chinese restaurants, we freshly prepare Ma Ma’s dishes with high quality ingredients that include homemade organic noodles, cage-free eggs, and all-natural meats. It’s quality for your tummy and it’s

Ma Ma approved. 2010 10th Street, Boulder, CO 80302 • 303-545-6262 • zoemama.com BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

JUNE 18, 2020 23

food SUSAN FRANCE

LAFAYETTE’S LOCALLY OWNED, INDEPENDENT FISH HOUSE Lobster Rolls

Grilled Fish

Oysters

Clams

Open Daily 11am - 9pm

Dine-In, Patio Seating & Take-Out with Curbside Delivery 720-630-8053

ORDER ONLINE AT: www.eatreelfish.com Located at the SW corner of Arapahoe and 95th St. in Lafayette

Proud to be voted one of Boulder’s best, 11 years running!

WINGS

WORLD FAMOUS DARK HORSE BAR AND GRILL

2922 Baseline Road, 303-442-8162 Silver: Mountain Sun Pubs & Breweries Bronze: Backcountry Pizza & Tap House Write-in: West End Tavern

TANNER CADY, GENERAL MANAGER AT WORLD FAMOUS DARK HORSE BAR & GRILL

id you know there are actually three parts to a chicken wing? Separated by different joints, there are the drummettes, the wingettes and the tips. But the folks at the World Famous Dark Horse Bar and Grill already knew that. They pride themselves on their three-joint Buffalo wings that come with a variety of rubs and sauces: plain, hot, extra hot, BBQ, teriyaki, dry rub or a combo — served with ranch or blue cheese to boot. Voted Best Sports Bar as well by our readers, slide on into the Dark Horse for the next game while downing a basket of these tasty wings. It doesn’t get much better than that. LATE NIGHT

Pilates / Yoga / Massage & Bodywork / Acupuncture

Best Alternative Health Care

Best Pilates Studio

659 30th St., 303-447-FAST 3117 28th St., 303-442-FAST 1325 Broadway, 303-447-FAST Silver: Illegal Pete’s Bronze: Mountain Sun Pubs & Breweries

1301 Yellow Pine Avenue • 303-444-2739 BoulderBodyworks.com 24 JUNE 18, 2020

COSMO’S PIZZA

othing goes better with beer than pizza. And nothing sops up excessive beer like a hot piece of pizza. Chewy dough on top of crispy crust, sweet and acidic sauce, gooey, melty cheese and salty slices of pepperoni (we won’t judge if you prefer pineapple and jalapeno), all cut into a large wedge — the ideal shape for shoveling food in your gullet as fast as possible. Not to mention, nothing stops the meaningless, late-night blather like a piece of pizza crammed in. For those nights, it’s Cosmo’s Pizza and nothing else.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

Eatery & Marketplace Boulder, Colorado

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR MISSION WE ARE HONORED TO SERVE BOULDER THE HEALTHIEST FOOD IN TOWN. FIRST PLACE: Best Gluten Free Restaurant SECOND PLACE: Best Organic Restaurant THIRD PLACE: Best Vegetarian Restaurant

FRESHTHYMES.COM EATERY 303 955 7988 2500 30TH ST. #101, BOULDER, CO

MARKETPLACE 720 484 5969 2690 28TH ST., BOULDER, CO

SUSAN FRANCE

food AMERICAN RESTAURANT

MOUNTAIN SUN PUBS & BREWERIES 1535 Pearl St., 303-546-0886 627 S. Broadway, 303-543-0886 627A S. Broadway, 303-927-6921 600 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont, 303-651-7886 Silver: OAK at fourteenth Bronze: The Kitchen Write-in: Community

ou know ‘em, you love ‘em, you KEVIN DALY, can’t live without ‘em. For good OWNER OF MOUNreasons, every trip to one of the TAIN SUN PUBS & BREWERIES sister Mountain Sun Pubs & Breweries around the county nets you some of the tastiest food and brews around. The service is impeccable (hint, hint), and their commitment to bringing it all together with a reasonable price tag is no small feat in today’s world. Whether it’s the music, the food or Stout Month that tickles your fancy, Mountain Sun has it all.

ORGANIC RESTAURANT

FLOWER CHILD

2580 Arapahoe Ave., Unit 110, 303-386-8090 Silver: Fresh Thymes Eatery Bronze: Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant Write-in: Whole Sol Blend Bar

t wasn’t that long ago that all food humans consumed was organic. But between now and then, a lot of food produced in the U.S. has been altered, sprayed with inorganic chemicals or genetically changed. Luckily, the tides are turning once again, and we have organic options around every corner. With a name like Flower Child, you better believe these folks are committed to creating healthy, fresh, organic food with the intention of radiating positivity in each bite and interaction. Check out the menu of both meat and vegetarian dishes to taste why our readers chose Flower Child as the best organic restaurant in town.

OVERALL RESTAURANT

THE MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT 1002 Walnut St. (closed) Silver: OAK at fourteenth Bronze: Brasserie Ten Ten (closed)

Best Place to Watch Paragliders WONDERLAND LAKE

here’s a reason why The Mediterranean Restaurant — or The Med if you’re hip — consistently ranked as one of the best restaurants in Boulder, while it was still in operation. Well, several reasons: an unparalleled, lively atmosphere, great service, an expansive menu of Mediterranean delights and long wine, beer and cocktail lists. The Med was the go-to choice for graduation dinners, anniversary celebrations, nights out, afternoon bites... you get the point. It was a comfortable place with consistently excellent food. And it will be missed.

26 JUNE 18, 2020

Wonderland Lake is a terrific place to get some exercise, think about life, spot wildlife or have a picnic. It also makes for primo viewing of paragliders, who descend from the foothills with colorful fabric and defy that pesky thing we call gravity. Sometimes you’ll see them land; often times you won’t, but they keep coming back to ride the high winds, so we’ll assume it’s as fun doing it as it is watching it.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

GROWING GARDENS SUMMER CAMPS!

Join us for our online virtual camps from the farm! We have several diﬀerent themes to choose from each week to spark your child’s curiosity this summer. Virtual camps | Children ages 5-12 | M-F

Back to the Land (Ages 5-8) Goats, Bees, and Worms Back to the Land (Ages 9-12) Art on the Farm Farm to Table Cooking Goats, Bees, and Worms Farm to Table Cooking Art on the Farm Back to the Land Keep Your Garden Growing New Adult Online Classes: Gardening 101 &

July 6-10 July 6-10 July 13-17 July 13-17 July 20-24 July 20-24 July 27-31 July 27-31 August 3-7 August 3-7 Gardening 201!

growing gardens

Yoga | Barre | Cycle HIIT | Strength

THANK YOU!!! #2 BEST GYM IN BOULDER #1 WOMAN OWNED BUSINESS

3161 Walnut Street www.konditionfitness.com 303.444.5505 BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

JUNE 18, 2020 27

food SUSAN FRANCE

MEXICAN

EFRAIN’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT & CANTINA 1630 N. 63rd St., 303-440-4045 101 E. Cleveland St., Lafayette, 303-666-7544 Silver: Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant Bronze: T/ACO Write-in: bartaco

t’s hard to beat the Mexican PATRICIA LOPEZ, food at Efrain’s Mexican MANAGER AND Restaurant & Cantina. The chili BARTENDER, verde is robustly spicy, and even EFRAIN’S MEXIthough you may get some sweat CAN RESTAURANT beads on your forehead, you & CANTINA OF won’t be able to stop chowing BOULDER down because it’s so good. Try the tender costillas — St. Louisstyle ribs smothered in pork green chili — or get a huge burrito filled with the chef’s choice of meat. If you can’t choose, Efrain’s has a selection of combination plates to ensure you get everything your stomach craves.

28 JUNE 18, 2020

RESTAURANT DESSERT

FLAGSTAFF HOUSE

1138 Flagstaff Road, 303-442-4640 Silver: The Melting Pot Bronze: Boulder Cork

epending on what kind of diner you are, desserts are either an afterthought or the centerpiece of the entire meal. The folks at Flagstaff House know how to do fine dining down to the last detail, including the dessert menu. Homespun ice creams and sorbets aren’t to be missed. Classics like perfectly crystalized crème brûlée are served with either fresh berries or winter citrus. Rich chocolate options and airy fruit mousse are also available. Regardless of what kind of diner you are, make sure you leave room for dessert at Flagstaff House.

Best Prairie Dog SHARON The Best Prairie Dog category has become one of the most hotly contested categories in Best of Boulder and Best of Boulder East County since being introduced last year. Last year, we gave the vote to yuppie, eco-friendly dog named Miles, but this year we like Sharon, a 4-year-old front-line worker who gives half her salary every year to the World Wildlife Fund. She likes drinking kombucha and doing the Sunday New York Times crossword. BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

food SUSAN FRANCE

PLACE TO GO ON A FIRST DATE

BOULDER DUSHANBE TEA HOUSE

1770 13th St., 303-442-4993 Silver: The Rayback Collective Bronze: The Mediterranean Restaurant (closed)

G ON HOLD

OPEN TUE - SAT 10AM TO 3PM

30 JUNE 18, 2020

oing on a first date can be nerve-racking: What are you going to wear? What are you going to talk about? What will you order? Our readers say the best place to go is Boulder Dushanbe Tea House. More than 40 artisans in several cities in Tajikistan (one of Boulder’s sister cities) created the mesmerizing decorative elements of this beloved local establishment. The Teahouse even takes care of what to talk about: Look up and around at the hand-carved and hand-painted ceiling, tables, stools, columns and ceramic panels, and chit chat with your date about the intricate details and your favorite parts. Calm your nerves with a soothing chai tea and then share a small plate of palatschinken (Austrian crepes with sweetened cheese, apple sauce, mint and candied walnuts). The menu is eclectic, so you don’t have to stress about whether your date can find something to eat. This one is a nobrainer that’s sure to add to the magic of your first date.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

food

SUSAN FRANCE E L E VAT I O N S

Thank you

for voting us Best Bank/ Financial Institution.

Thank You Boulder! We are happy to serve you and your pups!

BAKERY

MOXIE BREAD CO.

641 Main St., Louisville, 720-420-9616 4593 Broadway, A100 Silver: Lucky’s Bakehouse & Creamery Bronze: Spruce Confection

ig things are happening at Moxie Bread Co., MOXIE BREAD but the quality remains the same. And not CO-BAKER for nothing: The bakery located in the heart of SANDRA downtown Louisville still has people queuing up ARAGON (virtually and in-person) to get their freshly washed mitts on kouign-amann, chocolate croissants, avocado toasts and some of the best gluten-free bread in the county — maybe the state. And as of April 15, 2020, Moxie has expanded to a second location in North Boulder. There, the team mills heirloom grains, but you can also snag some bread and pastries. Master baker Andy Clark, a semifinalist for the James Beard award in 2018 and 2019, is sowing the Moxie concept. All of Boulder County will reap the benefits.

OF COUNTY 2020 BRONZE

(303)802-7790 • bowhausco.com • goodtimesboulder@bowhausco.com BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

JUNE 18, 2020 31

food SUSAN FRANCE

BARBECUE

FOOD ON THE HILL

RESTAURANT SERVICE

2660 Broadway, 303-442-3717 7464 Arapahoe Road, 303-786-7608 Silver: West End Tavern Bronze: Georgia Boys BBQ

1165 13th St., 303-444-7465 Silver: Illegal Pete’s Bronze: Cafe Aion

1535 Pearl St., 303-546-0886 627 S. Broadway, 303-543-0886 627A S. Broadway, 303-927-6921 600 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont, 303-651-7886 Silver: Frasca Food and Wine Bronze: Flagstaff House

THE SINK

KT’S BBQ

irk and Tricia Jamison TRICIA launched KT’s BBQ nearly JAMISON, three decades ago. It’s been OWNER OF slinging hickory-smoked, KTS BBQ Memphis-style barbecue that pleases the masses ever since. We’re talking pulled pork shoulder, dry-rubbed pork ribs, and smoked brisket, chicken and hot links to go alongside classic BBQ shack sides like coleslaw, beans, mashers and mac and cheese. Get your meat on a platter or in a sandwich, just get your meat, OK?

32 JUNE 18, 2020

f course, our readers chose The Sink as their favorite place to drink and dine on The Hill. We don’t remember any photos of Obama hanging out anywhere else, do you? Nope, Barack (we’re on a first-name basis) knew The Sink is the place to be on the Hill, and so do you. It doesn’t matter if it’s the fried mac & cheese wedges, the nachos, the cowboy reuben or that “ugly crust” pizza, there’s a reason to keep coming back. You’ve got memories here. Remember happy hours at the bar? And that one time you high-fived a bunch of strangers and ordered a round of bourbon when American Pharoah won the Triple Crown? Memories are made at The Sink, whether there’s a president involved or not.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

MOUNTAIN SUN PUBS & BREWERIES

f they weren’t already known for their killer burgers (BoB Winners: Best Burger and Best Veggie Burger), their outstanding lineup of craft made ales and lagers (BoB Winner: Best Beer Selection) or their all-around excellence (BoB Winner: Best American Restaurant), then Mountain Sun Pubs & Breweries would still stand tall for their impeccable service. They cross-train their staff to handle the front and back of the house, and that might be their winning combination. The waiters all share tips, making every customer their customer. The whole thing was started by two guys who just wanted to give Colorado a taste of Oregon hospitality. Whatever you like about Mountain Sun’s service, the fact is it’s your favorite, again and again and again. Well done, Mountain Sun. Well done.

BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST GROCERY STORE

for voting us

We’re Proud to be a part of the community!

Thank You for Voting us

Best Asian Fusion Restaurant!

DINE IN • TAKE OUT

2016

LAFAYETTE

1085 South Public Road • Lafayette, CO • 303-665-0666

Hours: Tuesday - Wednesday - Thursday - Sunday 11am-9pm • Friday & Saturday 11am-9:30pm • Closed Monday BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

JUNE 18, 2020 33

food

SUSAN FRANCE PIZZA SLICE

COSMO’S PIZZA

659 30th St., 303-447-FAST 3117 28th St., 303-442-FAST 1325 Broadway, 303-447-FAST Silver: Abo’s Pizza Bronze: Audrey Jane’s Pizza Garage

hen it comes to pizza slices, it’s hard to beat classic New York-style. If you can’t fold a slice of pizza lengthwise, then half the joy of grabbing a slice is gone. You want to eat pizza with a knife and fork? Who do you think you are, the governor of Ohio? But you know that, savvy Boulder Weekly reader. You like a thin-crust slice. You’ve voted Cosmo’s Pizza your favorite slice in Boulder County year after year, and you’ve never been wrong. Keep on keeping on, pizza mavens.

FINE DINING

FLAGSTAFF HOUSE

1138 Flagstaff Road, 303-442-4640 Silver: Frasca Food and Wine Bronze: OAK at fourteenth

raduation. Birthdays. Engagements. Anniversaries. A regular old Friday night. These are just a few reasons to celebrate at Flagstaff House, Boulder Weekly readers’ pick for Best Fine Dining restaurant. A well-curated menu from Executive Chef Chris Royster features New American dishes with a French twist. The wine list is expansive, the service impeccable and the views breathtaking. With three generations of the Monette family involved, Flagstaff House is a truly family-run restaurant with decades of experience providing modern fine dining to all of Boulder and the surrounding communities.

Your 1st choice for LASIK, PRK, ICL, Keratoconus Crosslinking, CATARACT and RLE Surgeries

R ’1 9

’20

Best of Boulder Best of Boulder

Thanks to the Boulder community for voting for us in the 2020 Best of Boulder survey. Dr. Beyer has performed LVC longer than any surgeon in Colorado

Visit our website at www.Bouldereyes.com to schedule a complimentary consultation for LASIK. Ask about Corneal Crosslinking treatment for Keratoconus, approved by the FDA. 3 0 3 . 4 9 9 . 2 0 2 0 • 1 8 1 O 3 O t h S T R E E T, S U I T E B , B O U L D E R 34 JUNE 18, 2020

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

food VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY

FLOWER CHILD

lower Child delivers a menu focused on freshness, which caters to vegans, vegetarians, Paleo dieters, gluten-freers and the otherwise dietaryrestricted. Of course, dietary restrictions are not a requisite for enjoying Flower Child’s salads, bowls, wraps and more. According to our readers, the vegetarian options stand out with a long list of inventive dishes and flavor profiles ranging from red chili glazed sweet potato to the “forbidden bowl” loaded with fresh Asian vegetables and grains. Even if you are a carnivore, you may want to forgo the protein and choose some veggies. PHO

CHEZ THUY

2655 28th St., 303-442-1700 Silver: Black Pepper Pho Bronze: Boulder Pho ho will cure what ails you. The now-ubiquitous Vietnamese soup has magical properties that’ll fix everything from a hangover to stuffed sinuses to just plain hunger. And pho doesn’t get much better than Chez Thuy’s take on it, our readers say. This soul-warming Vietnamese soup is a combination of broth, rice noodles, herbs and, traditionally, meat. At Chez Thuy, the noodles are slurp-worthy, and by the time you get to the end of the truly massive bowl, all that chili sauce, jalapeno and lime juice you squeezed in there has concentrated into a flavorful, savory punch.

BOULDER WEEKLY

LYONS RESTAURANT

1535 Pearl St., 303-546-0886 627 S. Broadway, 303-543-0886 627A S. Broadway, 303-927-6921 600 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont, 303-651-7886 Silver: (The Kitchen) Next Door American Eatery Bronze: Larkburger Write-in: The Bumbling Bee Vegan Junk Food Bar

303 Main St., 303-823-6685 Silver: Mojo Taqueria Bronze: Lyons Fork

MOUNTAIN SUN PUBS & BREWERIES

2580 Arapahoe Ave., Unit 110, 303-386-8090 Silver: Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant Bronze: Fresh Thymes Eatery Write-in: The Bumbling Bee Vegan Junk Food Bar

VEGGIE BURGER

f you’re going to win Best Burger, then it tracks that you’re also going to win Best Veggie Burger, don’t you think? Not always: A lot of restaurants offer vegetarian options to placate the party member who isn’t eating animals, but at Mountain Sun Pubs & Breweries, the black bean veggie burger is so good, our readers often reach for them more often than not. With the perfect ratio of density and deliciousness, you’d swear it was the real thing. Or is that the Beyond Burger it serves? Honestly, Mountain Sun could slip you a veggie patty on just about anything, and you wouldn’t even mind. You might even prefer it.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

OSKAR BLUES GRILL & BREW

t opened on April 25, 1997, in a four-foot snowstorm, and it’s been a Lyons staple ever since. From down-home Creole cooking to ales with attitude, Oskar Blues Grill & Brews has been blazing trails while sticking true to its roots. Now the Oskar Blues brand is all over the place, but the Lyons spot is still near and dear to readers’ hearts. That’s because OB knows how vital the PTA is. And the Turkey Trot 5K Run with the kids. Wherever it is, it is the epicenter of the community, the town hall. If you want to find out what’s going on, owner Dale Katechis says, you come to Oskar Blues.

JUNE 18, 2020 35

food SUSAN FRANCE

PLACE TO EAT OUTDOORS

THE RAYBACK COLLECTIVE

2775 Valmont Road, 303-214-2127 Silver: Chautauqua Dining Hall Bronze: Boulder Dushanbe Tea House

ating outdoors may be the new normal for the next… well… while. FROM LEFT But regardless of the TO RIGHT: THE times, the best place to RAYBACK COLeat outdoors, according to LECTIVE GENERAL MANAGER, our readers, is The DAYNA MCROBRayback Collective, with ERTS, AND COits local food trucks, live OWNERS JUSTIN music, fire pits, bar and RILEY AND HANK patio games. It feels just GRANT like having a beer in your best friend’s really nice backyard. That’s why they call The Rayback Boulder’s backyard. You can even bring the pooch since there’s a designated spot for Fido to romp and do his business.

36 JUNE 18, 2020

SEAFOOD

JAX FISH HOUSE & OYSTER BAR

SUSHI

SUSHI ZANMAI

928 Pearl St., 303-441-1811 Silver: Spruce Farm & Fish Bronze: Tortugas

1221 Spruce St., 303-440-0733 Silver: Hapa Sushi Grill & Sake Bar Bronze: Japango Write-in: AOI Sushi & Izakaya

ook, we’re a landlocked state, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy great seafood. When fare from the ocean is on our readers’ minds, they turn to Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar. The Big Red F production has been a staple in the local food scene for years, and the go-to place for fresh fish prepared in unique ways. Oysters, white fish, red fish, one fish, two fish... whatever maritime treat you’re craving, Jax does it right.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

very customer that walks into Sushi Zanmai is greeted warmly by the sushi chefs standing behind the counter, moving at lightning speed to prepare their award-winning sushi. Whether you pull up at the counter, grab a quaint table for two or venture up to the chabudai to enjoy your meal sans shoes sitting on comfortable floor cushions, the hand rolls, sashimi, nigiri and specialty rolls can’t be beat. And if you thought it couldn’t get any better, just wait for the yells of appreciation coming from the chefs on your way out.

BOULDER WEEKLY

Winner of Best Slice! 659 30th Street Williams Village Free Delivery 303-447-FAST (3278)

WE DELIVER TO GUNBARREL EVERY NIGHT!

1325 Broadway University Hill Plaza 303-447-1133 (Carry-out or dine-in only. No Delivery) 3117 28th Street North Boulder Free Delivery 303-442-FAST (3278)

Online ordering at www.cosmospizza.com

Download our app for great deals on your favorite pizza!

BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY â€™20

JUNE 18, 2020 37

SUSAN FRANCE

OF COUNTY 2020

DRINK DISTILLERY

CRAIG ENGELHORN, SPIRIT HOUND DISTILLERY’S CO-OWNER AND HEAD DISTILLER

SPIRIT HOUND DISTILLERS

4196 Ute Highway, Lyons, 303-823-5696 Silver: Boulder Spirits (formerly known as Vapor Distillery) Bronze: Longtuckey Spirits

pirit Hound Distillers embodies the spirit of “I love local.” The distillery was founded with the intent to create a single-malt whisky made entirely of Colorado ingredients. And co-owners Craig Engelhorn and Wayne Anderson infuse that philosophy into all their other spirits, using everything from freshly picked juniper berries to Alamosa-grown barley, with that iconic Rocky Mountain water mixed in. Check out their whisky, gin, Mountain Bum Rum, Colorado Sambuca digestif or White Dog Moonshine. The spot in Lyons is family-friendly, meaning you can taste, drink and enjoy, before picking up a bottle to take home.

HAPPY HOUR

THE MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT 1002 Walnut St. (closed) Silver: Brasserie Ten Ten (closed) Bronze: Mountain Sun Pubs & Breweries

he Mediterranean Restaurant was a happy place, and so it’s easy to see why our readers chose to spend happy hour there. It likely had something to do with its affordable, expansive and innovate happy hour menu, which included discounts on its esteemed tapas menu. We’re sad to say The Med is now closed, and we won’t be able to spend another happy hour in its welcoming atmosphere. Thanks for the memories!

Best New Restaurant

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

BEST BOOKSTORE! Come browse our shelves!

THANK YOU BOULDER!

Boulder Bookstore

1100 28th Street, Boulder, CO • 303-353-9199 thebumblingbeeboulder@gmail.com • thebumblingbee.net FOLLOW US: @thebumblingbeeboulder

1107 Pearl Street, Boulder, CO • 303-447-2074

www.boulderbookstore.net 38 JUNE 18, 2020

Best Veggie Burger Best Vegetarian Friendly

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEART, WE WANT TO THANK OUR COMMUNITY FOR SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES! 5340 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder•1015 Pearl Street, Boulder•1521 Pearl Street, Boulder 1898 S. Flatirons Court #110, Boulder•1232-A S. Hoover Street #400, Longmont OZOCOFFEE. COM

DRINK COURTESY OF LICENSE NO. 1 / TIM ROMANO

BAR

COFFEE ROASTER

2115 13th St., 303-442-4344 Silver: The Rayback Collective Bronze: The Bitter Bar Write-in: Niwot Tavern

5340 Arapahoe Ave., 303-440-0233 1015 Pearl St., 303-645-4885 1898 S. Flatiron Court, Suite 110, 303-396-0302 1232-A S. Hover Road, Suite 400, Longmont, 720-600-6689 Silver: Boxcar Coffee Roasters Bronze: Brewing Market

OZO COFFEE COMPANY

LICENSE NO. 1 (HOTEL BOULDERADO)

omeone’s always gotta be first. And when it came to selling liquor, License No. 1 was it. Or at least one of the first. The bar in the basement of Hotel Boulderado got a liquor license when the City of Boulder finally did away with a 1907 ordinance prohibiting the demon drink. The year was 1969, 50 years ago, and 60 years after the hotel opened. And to this day, License No. 1 is as classy as ever, with its dark wooden bar, ambient lighting and wall of liquor to choose from.

ZO Coffee Company sources ethically and sustainably raised coffee from around the world, providing it to Boulder and beyond in its myriad coffee houses around the county, or in compostable and recyclable packages for home and office consumption. OZO is doing it right, and our readers concur. They love the variability in flavors and textures they get from OZO roasted beans, while also relying on the consistency that has made OZO the paragon of coffee it is today.

READERCOMMENT ATMOSPHERE WOULD BE A FUN CATEGORY. LICENSE NO. 1 WOULD BE MY CHOICE.

40 JUNE 18, 2020

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

SUSAN FRANCE

DRINK WINE SELECTION

FRASCA FOOD AND WINE 1738 Pearl St., 303-442-6966 Silver: /pôr/ Wine House Bronze: Flagstaff House

BOBBY STUCKEY, hey say a glass a day keeps the docMASTER SOMMEtor away. Who’s going to argue with LIER AND PARTNER them? Not our readers. And if you need a AT FRASCA FOOD place to start, they say Frasca Food and AND WINE Wine offers the best wine selection in town. The folks at Frasca have put a lot of effort into building the wine list, organizing it by varietal, flavor profile and theme. With a long list of bubbles, rosé, red and white offerings, there has never been a better time to drink wine. Confused about how some wines are produced or a new varietal on the list? Just ask, the sommelier and servers are happy to talk all things vino.

CHAI

BOULDER DUSHANBE TEAHOUSE 1770 13th St., 303-442-4993 Silver: Bhakti Bronze: Sherpa Chai

or more than 20 years, Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse has been hand-brewing small batches of its classic chai tea, balancing malty black teas with the aromatic nuances of organic ginger, cinnamon, cardamom and other spices in filtered water with organic cane sugar. The Teahouse Chai concentrate is now available both online and at the Teahouse in handy take-home bottles.

CUP OF COFFEE

OZO COFFEE COMPANY

TEAHOUSE

BOULDER DUSHANBE TEAHOUSE 1770 13th St., 303-442-4993 Silver: Ku Cha House of Tea Bronze: Pekoe Sip House

o you just woke up, and you’re groggy. Or you’ve got a meeting or a final to study for. Or you just need a pick-me-up. A humble cup of coffee is in order, and you can’t afford to mess around with a watery cup from a gas station. Grab that much-needed cup of joe from OZO Coffee Company, where you’ll find plenty of flavor and preparation options. Wanna take that experience home with you? Grab a bag and you’ll be enjoying OZO in your pajamas in no time.

oulder Dushanbe Teahouse is our readers’ favorite place to go for a spot of tea — and why not? It’s right there in the name. This is a teahouse. Take a look at the menu and you’ll find dozens and dozens... and dozens of teas. Black, green, oolong, white and herbal, but also pu-erh tea, a variety of fermented tea traditionally produced in Yunnan Province, China. It’s the perfect place to try something new, like Blue Moon, black tea with flavors of vanilla, almond and blueberry. Or Mandarin Pu-erh, made from cooked pu-erh aged in the rind of wild mandarin oranges with a delicate citrus flavor. Combine those beautiful flavors with the beautiful designs of the hand-crafted and hand-painted teahouse, and you can see why it’s a favorite spot to sit and sip.

READERCOMMENT TEA COULD BE TWO CATEGORIES — TO GO TEA AND SIT DOWN TEA. ALSO BOBA SHOULD BE ITS OWN CATEGORY.

BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

JUNE 18, 2020 41

DRINK COURTESY OF AVERY BREWING COMPANY / THE BREWTOGRAPHY PROJECT

CRAFT BEER

LATTE/MOCHA

COCKTAIL

4910 Nautilus Court Silver: Mountain Sun Pubs & Breweries Bronze: Upslope Brewing Company

2115 13th St., 303-442-4344 Silver: The Bitter Bar Bronze: Upstairs Cocktail Lounge (The Kitchen)

AVERY BREWING COMPANY

very Brewing Company is a local success story. Founded in 1993, Avery won gold for its Out of Bounds Stout one year later at the Great American Beer Festival. In 2015, our readers’ favorite brewery moved into its dream digs in Gunbarrel. And with two dining rooms and a spacious outside patio, Avery has the perfect environment to enjoy the brews that helped build the Boulder beer scene: The rich and nutty Ellie’s Brown Ale, the light and tangy Liliko’i Kepolo and the spicy citrus punch of the White Rascal Belgian-style White Ale. Take a tour of the brewery to see where the magic is made.

OZO COFFEE COMPANY

f there’s one thing we’ve learned from the stay-athome orders this past spring, it’s that making a he latte — once a punch line about yuppies, now a societal sta- great cocktail is no easy task. Even seasoned mixolple. Why? Because espresso and steamed milk are two great ogists will make multiple mishaps at the home bar. tastes that taste great together. Whether you choose animal milk The art of the cocktail is delicate, detailed and not or a plant-based substitutions, OZO Coffee Company has you cov- for the faint of heart. Our readers say the best place ered. Add in some Ghirardelli dark chocolate and make it a mocha in town for a mixed drink is License No. 1 at the for that extra level of indulgence. No matter what substitutions you Hotel Boulderado, with its list of staple and specialty prefer, you can always expect top-notch lattes and mochas from drinks. So bring your friends, head downstairs, pull the qualified folks at OZO. up a stool and learn from the best.

Best place to take a beer drinker if they are… ...into cars: Collision Brewing Company. ...a haze bro: Uhl’s Brewing Co. ...an old-timer who likes “beer-flavored beer:” Left Hand Brewing Co. ...claims wine is better than beer: Primitive Beer. ...thinks beer is too bitter: Odd13 Brewing. 42 JUNE 18, 2020

LICENSE NO. 1 (HOTEL BOULDERADO)

...loves mountain biking: Oskar Blues Brewery ...loves mountain climbing: Avery Brewing Co. ...loves mountains: Upslope Brewing Company. ...loves looking at mountains: Bootstrap Brewing. ...loves keeping a respectable distance from the mountains: Industrial Revolution Brewing Company.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

DRINK

Play, Stay, Eat, Sleep, Play, Stay,and Eat,Repeat! Sleep,

SUSAN FRANCE

and Repeat! Thank you for voting for us year after year Play, Stay, Eat, Sleep, Thank you for voting for us year after year Best Pet Boarding and Doggie Daycare! Best Pet Boarding and Doggie Daycare! and Repeat! Thank you for voting for us year after year 303-442-2602

Best Pet Boarding and Doggie Daycare! 303-442-2602 7275 Valmont Road 7275 Valmont Road Boulder, CO 80301

Boulder, CO 80301 cottonwoodkennels.com

303-442-2602 cottonwoodkennels.com Open 7:30 AM - 6: 00 PM Every Day!

Road Open 7:307275 AM Valmont - 6: 00 PM Every Day! Boulder, CO 80301

cottonwoodkennels.com

Open 7:30 AM - 6: 00 PM Every Day!

OF COUNTY 2020 WINNER

MARGARITA

RIO GRANDE MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1101 Walnut St., 303-444-3690 Silver: Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina Bronze: T/ACO Write-in: Mojo Taqueria

veryone in Boulder has a story about drinking margaritas at the Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant. They’re famous, and we’re surprised they didn’t win the Best of Boulder category for local celebrity. Try the classic or frozen varieties, or take a walk on the wild side with some of the Rio’s unique variations. Drink them in the spacious dining room, or enjoy them al fresco on the rooftop patio, with an unparalleled view of the Flatirons. JUICE/SMOOTHIE

Thank you Boulder! for voting us Best Latte/Mocha

WONDER PRESS

946 Pearl St., 720-484-4927 Silver: Jamba Bronze: Rush Bowls Write-in: Whole Sol Blend Bar

We can now deliver your coffee straight to your house! Go to www.flatironcoffee.com and follow the links to our online ordering page.

hen you’re looking for a juice or smoothie fix, Wonder Press is the place to go. This 100% organic, cold-pressed juice and nut milk shop uses raw, carefully pressed and unadulterated juice from vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and herbs to make its delicious concoctions. Example A: The Brite, a blend of cucumber, green apple, collard greens, kale, parsley and lemon. The juice is never pasteurized, never pressure-processed and always served in a glass bottle. Each bottle consists of several pounds of produce and is packed with live enzymes, vitamins, minerals and other important nutrients. Greens, fruits, roots and lemonades... a juice from Wonder will make you feel wonderful. BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

Flatiron Coffee 2721 Arapahoe Ave Boulder, Colorado 303-449-4111 www.flatironcoffee.com I

JUNE 18, 2020 43

DRINK SUSAN FRANCE

CIDERY

ACREAGE CIDERHOUSE & EATERY

1380 Horizon Ave., Unit A, Lafayette, 720-443-3007 Silver: St. Vrain Cidery Bronze: BOCO Cider

ider may be a new craze here in Colorado, but it’s an ancient art and older than most alcoholic beverages. The type made from apples spread quickly throughout the Roman Empire after the conquerors sailed to the British Isles in 55 B.C., and its tradition has continued ever since. So what took so long for the current fascination to catch on? We have no idea. But we do know the folks at Acreage Ciderhouse & Eatery, a venture by Stem Ciders, were at the forefront of popularizing hard dry ciders in the Centennial State and beyond. With no shortage of tasty experiments and classic staples, Acreage is our readers’ favorite place to consume these ancient drinks. And we’re sure the view doesn’t hurt.

44 JUNE 18, 2020

COFFEE HOUSE

BEER SELECTION

1535 Pearl St., 303-546-0886 627 S. Broadway, 303-543-0886 627A S. Broadway, 303-927-6921 600 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont, 303-651-7886 Silver: Backcountry Pizza & Taphouse Bronze: Bohemian Biergarten

OZO COFFEE COMPANY

ith so many locations in Boulder County, you’ve most likely dipped into OZO Coffee Company for a cup of coffee or tea — maybe to get some work done, meet up with friends or family, or cool off after a walk around town with an iced drink. The point is, the coffee house is a community institution, and OZO carries that responsibility well, with comfortable seating areas, friendly and qualified baristas and some really, really good coffee.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

MOUNTAIN SUN PUBS & BREWERIES

hen it comes to sheer selection, Mountain Sun Pubs & Breweries takes the win. And of the four sister pubs in the county, Under the Sun Eatery & Pizzeria leads with 21 taps for Mountain Sun house beers and 10 taps for guests — making it one of the best places to broaden your drinking palate while shoveling down flatbread by the pound. You’ll find eight core Mountain Sun beers at all of the locations, but it’s the rotating selection of one-offs, seasonals and stouts that make every trip to the Sun an adventure.

BOULDER WEEKLY

NOCOAST

s there a better venue than Telluride to take in live music? Not according to our readers. In thin air, with dramatic mountains nestling you in, the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, from our friends at Planet Bluegrass, has become a must-visit attraction for bluegrass aficionados here in Boulder County. Like moths to a flame, they flock every year to see the best bluegrass talents. Well, not every year. See you in 2021, we know you’ll be there.

MUSIC FESTIVAL

TELLURIDE BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL

Silver: Colorado Music Festival Bronze: RockyGrass

ENTERTAINMENT&CULTURE

THANK YOU, BOULDER! You've voted us Boulder's #1 caterer since 1999! Cheers to

you for sharing the love and raising us up year after year.

CATERING • WEDDINGS • CORPORATE CAFÉS 46 JUNE 18, 2020

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

ENTERTAINMENT&CULTURE MARIE-DOMINQUE VERDIER

PLACE TO DANCE

LOCAL CELEBRITY

LOCAL MUSICIAN/GROUP

6185 Arapahoe Road, 303-440-8303 Silver: St Julien Hotel & Spa Bronze: Tahona Tequila Bistro Write-in: Alchemy of Movement

Silver: Gregory Alan Isakov Bronze: Zip Code Man Write-in: Amal Easton

Silver: Gregory Alan Isakov Bronze: Face Vocal Band

THE AVALON BALLROOM

JARED POLIS

ooking for a partner to swing you around the dance floor? Ever wondered if it really takes two to tango? Had the urge to try your hand (feet, actually) at the different ballroom styles — salsa, waltz, foxtrot, etc. — you’ve seen on ‘So You Think You Can Dance?’ Want to take contra lessons — traditional folk dancing like the kind you find in Jane Austen movies? Look no further than The Avalon Ballroom, our readers’ favorite place to dance. With different dance styles offered each night of the week, you can come early and take lessons or stay late to show off your skills and attract new dance partners. And if you need a break, take a seat, grab a drink and watch the live bands carry the show.

ared Polis — our congressman turned governor. What can we say, our readers love the guy. He stands up for issues Boulderites care about, and he does it in his trademark humorouswith-a-big-heart kind of way. With a democratic state legislature in Colorado, Polis has been able to push through and champion for things that matter to us in the People’s Republic, and given the tone in Washington, readers appreciate his ability to level with people and get things done.

READERCOMMENT

NONPROFIT/CHARITY ORGANIZATION

BIG HEAD TODD AND THE MONSTERS

HUMANE SOCIETY OF BOULDER VALLEY

ig Head Todd and the Monsters have developed a cult-like following in their decades’ long career. The guys met as teenagers in a jazz band at Columbine High School and quickly formed a bond over a shared love of classic rock, blues and R&B. The bond was so strong that lead singer Todd Park Mohr transferred from Colorado State University to join his pals at the University of Colorado Boulder so they could keep making music together. The band built their following by playing college towns over and over, crashing on couches, and ultimately snagging bigger venues each time they’d pass through. Then they moved to gigs at small venues along the Front Range and now have played more than 20 shows at Red Rocks. All while becoming our readers’ favorite local band.

2323 55th St., 303-442-4030 Silver: Planned Parenthood Bronze: Community Food Share

t’s our job to speak out for those who have no voice in a chaotic, confusing and sometimes downright violent world. Among the voiceless in our world are animals, and our readers believe no one speaks louder for our four-legged friends than the Humane Society of Boulder Valley (HSBV). Founded in 1902, HSBV provides a safety net to animals in need in our community and beyond. Each year, HSBV provides shelter and care to nearly 7,000 animals, whether through foster homes, “forever home” adoptions, pet food, veterinary care or behavioral training. HSBV truly creates healthy relationships between pets and people.

BOILING ALL OF THOSE DOWN TO ONE NONPROFIT??? WE HAVE HUMAN SERVICES, ART, ANIMALS, DISASTER RELIEF, COUNSELING, RAPE CRISIS, DV... WHERE’S THE LOVE AND THE IMPORTANCE OF ALL?? EDITOR’S NOTE: WE CONCUR, AND WE TRY TO HIGHLIGHT ALL OF THE ABOVE EACH AND EVERY WEEK IN OUR REGULAR PAPER — NOT TO MENTION OUR ANNUAL ANNIVERSARY ISSUE (LAST THURSDAY IN JANUARY). HOPE YOU ENJOY! 48 JUNE 18, 2020

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

Thank You Boulder for Your Continued Support! Jlounge is proud to have won Boulder Weekly’s Best Nail Salon and received silver for Best Skin Care and Best Day Spa! Our doors are open and we’re excited to pamper you when you’re ready!

BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

720.484.6669 jloungespa.com

JUNE 18, 2020 49

ENTERTAINMENT&CULTURE SUSAN FRANCE

Our hope for the future lies in our kids being curious, creative, and always asking "why?”

LIMITED SPACES FOR FALL IN PS-8th

S I LV E R B E S T P R I V AT E S C H O O L

Learn more about our small class sizes, spacious campuses, and hybrid learning environment.

MOVIE HOUSE/THEATER

BOULDER THEATER

2032 14th St., 303-786-7030 Silver: Boedecker Theater (Dairy Arts Center) Bronze: Century Boulder

ou won’t see a movie there every night, but when you do, you’ll remember it. Whether it’s ‘The Big Lebowski’ or ‘Napoleon Dynamite,’ maybe even an opening or closing night film for the Boulder International Film Festival, Boulder Theater is the place to sip on a cold one or three while enjoying the glory of the moving image. Pro tip: Sit in the balcony — the seats are better, and so is the view.

303-499-1999 x227

FriendsSchoolBoulder.org

READERCOMMENT WHOA!! DID YOU FORGET ABOUT THE CONFERENCE ON WORLD AFFAIRS?

admissions@FriendsSchoolBoulder.org 52 JUNE 18, 2020

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

MUSEUM

LIVE JAZZ VENUE

BOULDER MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ARTS (BMOCA)

ST JULIEN HOTEL & SPA 900 Walnut St., 877-303-0900 Silver: Hotel Boulderado Bronze: The Laughing Goat

ENTERTAINMENT&CULTURE

1750 13th St., 303-443-2122 Silver: CU Museum of Natural History Bronze: Museum of Boulder

n the summer, the St Julien Hotel & Spa transforms its terrace into a live music venue, and it’s a particularly great place to take in some jazz. Something about a warm night, delicious libations and the soothing, sometimes challenging tones of jazz makes this experience at St Julien one you ought to put on your Boulder bucket list if you’ve never stopped by. It puts the class in worldclass and mixes in comfort and unparalleled ambiance that’ll let you unwind in style.

ike some of the best parts of Boulder, the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMoCA to us locals) was founded in the ’70s — 1972 to be exact. It’s been on the cutting edge ever since, embracing the temporality of contemporary art. Traveling exhibits come and go, and so do the visitors, more than 114,000 annually. If you’re not a member, you’re missing out. Sign up today and let BMoCA enrich your future.

Walk in and dance out LIVE THEATER GROUP

BDT STAGE

5501 Arapahoe Ave., 303-449-6000 Silver: Colorado Shakespeare Festival Bronze: Boulder Ensemble Theatre Company

here’s a stigma that comes with dinner theater, but not here. At BDT Stage, patrons get a taste of the apple, The Big Apple, that is. And a taste of what’s cooking backstage because the actors will serve you before they stride the boards and recite the words. And if you dig what you see, let ‘em know during intermission because they’re back, shaking cocktails and pouring digestifs. And then when you see one of them move on to Broadway or the HoopDee-Doo Musical Revue, you can tell your friends: I saw them at the BDT Stage.

• Ballroom

• Salsa

• Latin • Swing

CLASSICAL MUSIC

• Country

Boulder

THANK YOU BOULDER FOR VOTING FOR US!

BOULDER PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA 1595 Pleasant St. (Macky Auditorium), 303-449-1393 Silver: CU Presents Bronze: Colorado Symphony

WEDDING DANCES

or more than 60 years, the Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra has been soothing a savage world with the sweet seduction of Brahms, Haydn, Schubert, Vivaldi and a whole lot more. And thanks to the musical direction of Michael Butterman, Macky Auditorium has been (and will be soon enough) filled with the delightful symphonies of yesteryear — the kind that never go out of fashion. If you go, you know. But if you have a young one that doesn’t, check out their Discovery Concerts for grades three to six. It’s never too early to start them on the classics.

Arthur Murray Wedding Specialists will help you create a special moment where the two of you can enjoy the closeness of one another, dancing to a special song without feeling awkward or afraid. The investment of time and money will be the best one you make for your wedding day. In one year or twenty years from now you and your spouse will still be dancing!

IN-STUDIO & ONLINE ASK US ABOUT OUR DANCE PROGRAMS NEW STUDENT OFFER Arthur Murray Boulder is now offering The Colorado Arthur Murray dance online dance options. Our trained instructors are specially trained professionals will bring the joy of dance and certified in the many forms to you through online personal lessons, of ballroom dancing. Our dance group classes and even practice parties. instructors can put you in touch with Don’t let your passion of dancing wait today’s most popular dances to make during these uncertain times, learn in you comfortable in social or competitive the comfort of your living room. dance scene. Whether you’re dancing out socially or at a dance competition, our instructors will have you dancing on your feet in no time!

5290 Arapahoe Ave. Unit F • Boulder, CO • 720-261-7286 • DanceInBoulder.com BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

JUNE 18, 2020 53

ENTERTAINMENT&CULTURE COSTUMES BY GENE MOORE IN PAUL TAYLOR’S ‘AIRS’ DANCER PHOEBE MAGNA, WITH PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA TIPTON LIVE DANCE GROUP

BOULDER BALLET

2590 Walnut St., Suite 10 (Dairy Arts Center), 303-443-0028 Silver: Frequent Flyers Bronze: Block 1750 Write-in: Alchemy of Movement

ou know what they say: Life without ballet is pointless. And you know who we mean by they: all the purveyors of dad jokes. Still, they have a pointe. (We couldn’t help it.) Regardless of style — ballet, modern, tap or anything else — live dance and the art of movement thrills the senses and communicates emotion beyond the five senses. Presenting originally choreographed works as well as classics, our readers love Boulder Ballet. The company also helps foster a love of dance in the community by offering classes for beginners of all ages.

BANK/FINANCIAL INSTITUTION

ELEVATIONS CREDIT UNION Multiple locations Silver: Chase Bank Bronze: Wells Fargo Write-in: Blue Federal Credit Union

ou have to trust the organization you bank with. It’s your money, after all. Our readers trust Elevations Credit Union because it invests in the future of the community. As a credit union, Elevations places its focus on providing real solutions for achieving financial health. In addition to one-on-one consultations, Elevations hosts dozens of free financial seminars on a wide range of subjects and connects with K-12 students to teach financial literacy early on. People know when a business is truly in it to make the community a better place, and our readers know Elevations Credit Union is here for the right reasons.

OPEN MIC

THE LAUGHING GOAT

1709 Pearl St. 2907 55th St. 1720 Pleasant St. Silver: The Attic Bar and Bistro Blonze: Innisfree Poetry Bookstore & Cafe

he original Pearl Street location of The Laughing Goat reopened on June 1. East Pearl kicked open the doors on June 8. Norlin Library? Fingers crossed it comes back when the students do in August. We need The Goat’s coffee. We need its snacks. We got a song in our hearts and a poem on paper, and we want to share them with the world. We have thoughts and feelings, and The Laughing Goat has Boulder County’s best open mic nights. It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-timer or a veteran, all are welcome.

54 JUNE 18, 2020

ADVANCED EDUCATION

UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER CONTINUING EDUCATION 1505 University Ave., 303-492-5148 Silver: Naropa University Bronze: Front Range Community College

t’s a busy world out there. It’s a big one, too, and sometimes it’s so busy and so big that you don’t know where to begin. Start here: University of Colorado Boulder’s Continuing Education courses. With more than 100 to choose from — from anthropology to sociology, art to creative writing — there’s so much to discover. And with each course, you’ll fill in a little hole in your perspective, making this big, busy world a little more understandable.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY â€™20

JUNE 18, 2020 55

Summer

ENTERTAINMENT&CULTURE COURTESY OF DAIRY ARTS CENTER

Camps Photo Credit: ©Angie Payne

Indoor + Outdoor

For Kids of All Ages and Abilities

ART GALLERY

DAIRY ARTS CENTER

2590 Walnut St., 303-440-7826 Silver: Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMoCA) Bronze: Boulder Arts & Crafts Gallery

• Summer Camps

rt is transformative if we take the time to really sit with it, meditate on shapes and sizes, colors and paint strokes, themes and metaphors. With four different galleries, the Dairy Arts Center provides space for diversified content from local, national and international artists. Come to visit one of the rotating exhibits or check them out on your way to any one of the Dairy’s other artistic offerings. Just make sure to give yourself time to see, to sit and to take it all in.

Indoor + Outdoor

• Classes

FESTIVAL/EVENT (NON-MUSIC)

BOULDER COUNTY FARMERS MARKET

13th Street between Arapahoe and Canyon, 303-910-2236 Boulder County Fairgrounds, 9595 Nelson Road, Longmont 400 E. Simpson St., Lafayette Silver: Boulder Creek Festival Bronze: Colorado Shakespeare Festival

• Open Gym Small Group

t’s no wonder our readers chose the Boulder County Farmers Market as their favorite (nonmusic) event. What’s better than being able to talk to local farmers, smell the aroma of fresh harvested produce, pick from local ingredients and assemble a home-cooked meal sourced from food grown by good folks within 30 miles of home? In typical years (2020 has not been a typical year), there’s live music and food stalls and artisan vendors and a crowd of shoppers that makes the whole experience come alive. We can’t wait for when all that returns, but until then, we’re just glad we still have the opportunity to get our groceries in a safe, open-air market.

• Birthday Parties • Private Lessons

Best Cinematic Programming CU-BOULDER’S INTERNATIONAL FILM SERIES

Enroll Today! abckidsclimbing.com • 303-443-5437 1960 32nd Street • Boulder

56 JUNE 18, 2020

Depending on who you talk to, there are about 700 U.S. movies released theatrically every year. Hundreds more go directly to streaming, and a couple hundred make their way here from beyond our borders. Add to that a steady stream of restorations and rediscoveries, and you have more movies to choose from than you know what to do with. That’s where programming comes in, and CU’s International Film Series does a bang-up job. From new foreign and art-house releases to a bevy of classics projected on 35mm, IFS is one of the few theaters left where you can just go and know that no matter what it is, it’ll be of value.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

ENTERTAINMENT&CULTURE SUMMER CAMP

COLORADO MOUNTAIN RANCH 10063 Gold Hill Road, 303-442-4557 Silver: CU Science Discovery Bronze: Avid4 Adventure Write-in: Boulder Ki Aikido

COURTESY OF COLORADO MOUNTAIN RANCH ummer camp is where we build some of the most meaningful relationships in our lives — including the relationship we build with ourselves. Our readers say again and again that Colorado Mountain Ranch is the best summer camp option around. Why? Because Colorado Mountain Ranch is founded on healthy values: simplicity, nature, connection and fun. There are adventure day camps, focus camps (like horseback riding, gymnastics and trailblazing) and overnight camps to match your child’s interests and comfort level. Even though Colorado Mountain Ranch had to make the difficult decision to cancel camp for 2020, it will be offering some fun programs for the whole family that you can check out on its website.

Quality Used and New Books at GREAT PRICES

THANK YOU BOULDER! On the West End

PERFORMING ARTS VENUE

940 Pearl Street 303.443.3133 www.tridentcafe.com

DAIRY ARTS CENTER

2590 Walnut St., 303-440-7826 Silver: Boulder Theater Bronze: Chautauqua Auditorium

he Dairy Arts Center has become a community staple, a place to share fresh ideas and hear new perspectives. The performances, be they theater, dance, comedy, magic or music, are expertly curated and here to help you improve your inner life. Add workshops and special events, and the Dairy has become an asset to the arts community in Boulder, a place where ideas thrive and connections to the world at large are forged.

PLACE TO WI-FI

BOULDER PUBLIC LIBRARY 1001 Arapahoe Ave., 303-441-3100 Silver: OZO Coffee Company Bronze: The Laughing Goat Write-in: Belaza Coffee Bar

hat better place to seclude yourself and spend hours digging through digital archives and endless websites than the Boulder Public Library? It’s quiet (it’s a library, after all), the chairs are comfy and the tables are large. Heck, grab a few books off the shelf and spread them all around you. People will think you’re working on something important and not just mindlessly watching cat videos. (Mindfully watching cat videos is encouraged.)

Haystack Mountan Golf Course

PLACE TO PLAY POOL

SUNDOWN SALOON

1136 Pearl St., 303-449-4987 Silver: World Famous Dark Horse Bar and Grill Bronze: Outback Saloon

ey, who hasn’t spent a night at the Sundown Saloon shooting pool and pounding Pabst Blue Ribbon? It’s the country’s largest purveyor of PBR — at least that’s what the bartender told us. You haven’t? Well, if drinking beer, making friends and racking up balls is your idea of fun, then make the pilgrimage to the Downer. It’s got a charmingly divey feel that you just can’t replicate, and that is much appreciated in today’s day and age. A few games in, and you’ll make fast friends with folks who were strangers minutes before. The Downer is a true community meeting spot.

BOULDER WEEKLY

Executive 9 Hole • Large Practice Range Beer Garden

5877 Niwot Road • Niwot CO 80503 303-530-1400 golfhaystack.com

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

JUNE 18, 2020 57

ENTERTAINMENT&CULTURE

MUSIC VENUE

MICHAEL GOLDMAN

SPORTS BAR

PRIVATE SCHOOL

RED ROCKS AMPHITHEATRE

18300 W. Alameda Parkway, Morrison, 720-865-2494 Silver: Boulder Theater Bronze: Chautauqua Auditorium

id you know that the Red Rocks Amphitheatre was built to provide jobs and stimulate the economy during the Great Depression, constructed by FDR’s New Deal alphabet agencies? It’s true, the plan worked, and now we have a world-class venue in our backyard. The views are epic, the red rocks create near-perfect acoustics, and the camaraderie of the audience is unbeatable. It’s no wonder it’s a coveted gig for musicians of all genres and backgrounds — from hometown hero Gregory Alan Isakov to industrial rockers Nine Inch Nails to cellist Yo Ma Ma. If something as amazing as Red Rocks is a product of one of the worst times in our economic history, just imagine what could come out of this moment in time.

DAWSON SCHOOL

10455 Dawson Drive, Lafayette, 303-665-6679 Silver: Friends School Bronze: Shining Mountain Waldorf School

ducation is critical to the success of society. The foundational knowledge kids learn in school helps propel them into enriching lives and provides the handrails for them in times of turmoil. Our readers say Dawson School is the private institution that best prepares kids for the real world. The K-12 school gives kids skills in critical thinking, creativity and socialization so they can leave Boulder County (or not) and make the world a better place.

WORLD FAMOUS DARK HORSE BAR AND GRILL

2922 Baseline Road, 303-442-8162 Silver: Lazy Dog Bar & Grill (closed) Bronze: The West End Tavern Write-in: The Tune Up Taproom at Full Cycle ounded in 1975, the World Famous Dark Horse Bar and Grill knows how to do the sports bar right. All the ingredients are there: low light to make the illuminated screens sharp, long bartops perfect for large groups or finding someone new to argue with. It has draft specials and friendly staff, plus a menu full of classic bar food from burgers to wings to Rocky Mountain oysters, plus arcades, pool and other bar games to distract you at half-time. With multiple rooms, TVs and games to choose from, Dark Horse is the place to be. There’s a reason people say things get better with age.

ARCADE GAMES

PRESS PLAY BAR

1005 Pearl St., 720-508-4916 Silver: Tilt Pinball Bronze: Gateway Park Fun Center

READERCOMMENT

o you’re looking for something to do that’s outside the ordinary regimen. Or you’re craving a little nostalgia, the kind that can only be soothed by the feel of red and black plastic buttons under your fingers and a joystick in your grasp. Our readers say when that urge hits, head to Press Play. It’s got an immensely impressive collection of classic and unique arcade games that you’ll be surprised you know how to play from muscle memory alone. Plus, it’s got alcohol, if that’s your bag, so playing ‘Street Fighter’ might be a bit different than when you played it as a kid. Stay to try all the games, and you might hear some live music while you’re there.

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WHY ONLY PRIVATE SCHOOLS? BOULDER HAS EXCELLENT PUBLIC SCHOOLS, IT IS A SHAME TO ONLY HAVE A CATEGORY TO RECOGNIZE THE PRIVATE SCHOOLS THAT MOST RESIDENTS CANNOT ATTEND.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

Thank You

for voting us Best New Business and Best Pilates Studio!

OF COUNTY 2020 WINNER

OF COUNTY 2020 WRITE-IN

www.caretopilates.com • info@caretopilates.com 2795 Pearl St Suite #102 Entrance on Spruce St, Boulder

BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

JUNE 18, 2020 59

SUSAN FRANCE

FITNESS &HEALTH DANCE STUDIO

ALCHEMY OF MOVEMENT 2436 30th St., 303-449-4410 Silver: Boulder Ballet Bronze: The Avalon Ballroom Write-in: Arthur Murray Dance Center — Boulder

e could all use a little more joy in our lives. And there’s no better place to forget your worries, move your body and dance for joy than Alchemy of Movement, our readers’ favorite dance studio. With myriad classes to choose from — everything from Zumba to party hip-hop, from HOT HULA fitness to NIA (nonimpact aerobics) — there is no shortage of options whether you’re looking to exercise, break free or a little of both. Learn from a long list of skilled and trained teachers, make new friends and learn something new. Best of all, dance for joy!

BARBER SHOP

FLOYD’S 99 BARBERSHOP

2790 Pearl St., 303-442-2279 2540 Baseline Road, 303-317-2110 548 W. South Boulder Road, Unit C, Lafayette, 720-890-3868 589 S. Hover St., Suite 600, Longmont, 303-485-1150 Silver: VooDoo Hair Lounge Bronze: Truman Barber Co. Write-in: Zinke Hair Studio

ost of us didn’t appreciate a good barbershop until COVID19 hit, and we had to turn to self hair care. We witnessed surprising self-cuts and men with long floppy locks. A few even gave up, broke out the razor and decided bald was beautiful. And don’t get us started on what happened to beard and mustache care in the spring of 2020. It’s no surprise that our readers chose Floyd’s 99 Barbershop as their go-to place for cuts, shaves and facial hair waxes. They’re a full-service barbershop with a friendly staff, clean environment and fun atmosphere, and they’re ready to undo what you did during the lockdown.

Boulder’s Premier Eyewear Destination

Thank you Boulder! We’re here for you!

20% OFF some exclusions apply

we’ll be seeing you.

in the Village at 2525 ARAPAHOE 60 JUNE 18, 2020

❘

303.4 47.0210 ❘ www.aspene y e w ear.com

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

LASIK

FITNESS&HEALTH

BOULDER VISION ASSOCIATES SUSAN FRANCE

5305 Spine Road, Suite B, 303-530-2020 Silver: Boulder Eyes (Beyer Lasik) Bronze: Eyeworks Louisville

ur readers go to Boulder Vision Associates for LASIK surgery because they know that Dr. Nathan Anderson and his team offer the latest technology advancements to provide faster recovery times and precise results. LASIK isn’t just a way to get 20/20 vision — LASIK surgery has been effective in treating myopia, hyperiouam assignation and other eye conditions. Dr. Anderson is experienced in working with patients pre- and post-operation and will answer any questions that you have along the way. He’ll make sure that you feel supported through your whole LASIK experience.

ACUPUNCTURE

ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC OF BOULDER 2500 Arapahoe Ave., Suite 290, 303-665-5515 Silver: Beth Kearns Acupuncture Bronze: Boulder Community Acupuncture

ith a history dating back more than 3,000 years, acupuncture is recognized as a primary health care system in many countries. Here in Boulder County, our readers say you can get the best acupuncture treatment at Acupuncture Clinic of Boulder, where a caring team of professionals will help determine the best course of treatment for you. These treatments will stimulate blood flow, relax and retrain muscles, soothe nerves and reenergize the body’s natural healing system. They also offer Chinese herbal therapy, cupping, dry needling, gua sha, moxibustion and ion treatment. When our readers want to give their bodies a hand in the healing process, Acupuncture Clinic of Boulder is where they go. GOLF COURSE

FLATIRONS GOLF COURSE

5706 Arapahoe Ave., 303-442-7851 Silver: Haystack Mountain Golf Course Bronze: Boulder Country Club

hat can make a game of golf better? A view of the magnificent Flatirons, that’s what. Flatirons Golf Course has a killer view that can take your mind off the fact that you’re edging up to 120 strokes by the 18th hole. If you want to shave that score down, head to Flatirons’ driving range and putting greens to practice your swing. The driving range is generally open from dawn to dusk — $10 for 100 balls, and you should be down to par in no time. With junior and senior discounts, complimentary pushcarts (first come, first served) and that view, we can’t argue with our readers choosing Flatirons Golf Course as their favorite place to hit the links.

DENTAL CARE

NORTH BOULDER DENTAL GROUP 1001 North St., 303-447-1042 Silver: Louisville Dental Associates Bronze: Alpine Dental Health Write-in: Boulder Holistic Dentistry

MMJ EVALUATION SERVICE

hey say going to the dentist is one of the most important things you can do for your health, which makes finding a dentist you can trust imperative to your well-being. Whether you’ve got a toothache, need a check-up or are otherwise looking to improve your chompers, the folks at North Boulder Dental Group are here to help. By offering high-quality, compassionate care, they’ve won our readers’ vote for the best place to get dental work done. Providing family dentistry for almost 40 years, these folks know how to help all of us achieve optimal oral health.

YOGA STUDIO

AJOYA

1100 W. Dillon Road, Unit 3, Louisville, 303-665-5596 Silver: Holos Health Bronze: Relaxed Clarity

he word “ajoya” is a combination of the Esperanto word “goja” (joyful) and the Yoruba word “ajoyo” (celebration). That might explain why our readers have called Ajoya their favorite place to go for medical marijuana evaluation service. When you sign up to become a medical member with Ajoya, you get an additional 10% off every full-price purchase — even if you choose to remain with your current care center, you can enjoy Ajoya Rewards benefits anytime you shop at Ajoya.

YOGA POD BOULDER

1890 30th St., 303-444-4232 Silver: CorePower Yoga Bronze: The Little Yoga Studio Write-in: Amana Yoga

MARTIAL ARTS

EASTON TRAINING CENTER

verything gets better with age. It’s no wonder yoga, an ancient Indian science of healing and exercise, has grown into a world-wide meditative and spiritual practice. With a variety of styles and traditions, the classes at Yoga Pod Boulder offer a place to develop skill, destress, build strength and “achieve a greater sense of presence,” all with the goal of achieving a greater state of well-being. For beginners and advanced practitioners alike, these folks will take you on an ancient journey to achieve a more fulfilling future. So take a breath and connect to your community at Yoga Pod.

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2005 32nd St., 303-938-1275 2415 Wedgewood Ave., Longmont, 720-551-4382 Silver: Boulder Ki Aikido Bronze: Boulder Karate

razilian jiu-jitsu is the art of joint manipulation, leverage and weight distribution. It’s not about trying to harm your opponent, you just want to disable their ability to harm you. Muay Thai Kickboxing is “the art of eight limbs.” Try either one of these and more at Easton Training Center. Our readers keep voting it as their favorite place to learn and practice martial arts.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY â€™20

JUNE 18, 2020 63

Boulder’s Local Music Shop Since 1971

FITNESS&HEALTH INDOOR CLIMBING GYM

BOULDER ROCK CLUB

Voted BEST MUSIC STORE! Shop Online! Curbside Pickup & Local Delivery Available

• Acoustic & Electric Guitars • Ukuleles, Banjos & Mandolins • Band & Orchestra Rentals • Lessons & Workshops • Books & Accessories

3101 28th St, Tebo Plaza, Boulder

303.449.0516

2829 Mapleton Ave., 303-447-2804 Silver: The Spot Bouldering Gym Bronze: EVO Rock + Fitness

t wasn’t that long ago that the sport of rock climbing was relegated to rugged outdoorsmen and women, practicing their craft far away from the cities and towns where most lived. But indoor climbing gyms, like Boulder Rock Club (BRC), have transformed the sport into a widely accepted and practiced fitness routine. What’s more, climbing is a way to build community and strength at the same time. At BRC, climbers of all ages and abilities convene together in celebration, whether to lead climb, boulder or belay for a friend. It’s no wonder the BRC has won Boulder Weekly’s Best Indoor Climbing Gym 15 years in a row.

MEDICAL FACILITY

BOULDER COMMUNITY HEALTH FOOTHILLS HOSPITAL

hbwoodsongs.com

THANK YOU BOULDER!

4747 Arapahoe Ave., 303-415-7000 Silver: Boulder Medical Center Bronze: Boulder Valley Women’s Health Center

ven in the midst of a global pandemic, the frontline workers at Boulder Community Health Foothills Hospital were there for the community — although there was never any doubt, given the facility’s history of excellence service, medical care and patient appreciation. With a wide range of specialty and general services, the Foothills Hospital has been serving the community for almost 100 years (98 to be exact), and we don’t know what we’d do without them. Here’s a big shout-out to all our medical workers! ALTERNATIVE HEALTH CARE

BOULDERBODYWORKS

1301 Yellow Pine Ave., 303-444-2739 Silver: Apex Chiropractic Bronze: Whole Body Balance

oulder is renowned for its alternative health care businesses and professionals. Our readers say when they need health care outside of a hospital and pharmacy, they turn to BoulderBodyworks. The company offers a host of health care offerings and individualized attention. It provides acupuncture and massage services to keep your body right, and yoga and Pilates instruction to improve strength in both body and mind.

VOTED BEST ALTERNATIVE HEALTHCARE PROVIDER

SKIN CARE SERVICES

ALCHEMY FACE BAR

2701 Canyon Blvd., 303-817-1430 Silver: JLounge Natural Nail Bar and Spa Bronze: The Dragontree Write-in: Leah Nickie Advanced Aesthetics

et’s face it: Colorado is a great place to live for many reasons, but the harsh sun can do a number on your skin. That’s why it’s important to have a place you can go for skincare services, and our readers say Alchemy Face Bar is the place when you need to whip your epidermis into shape. Facials, steams, exfoliations, collagen masks — you name it, Alchemy does it. They also throw in massages, makeup services (including for weddings), tinting, waxing and eyelash extensions. It’s a one-stop shop that’ll have you looking and feeling good, our readers say.

READERCOMMENT

Chiropractic, Acupuncture, & Massage 2995 Baseline Rd., #110 Boulder, CO 80303 303-444-0192 • www.wholebodybalance.com In-network with most major insurance companies 64 JUNE 18, 2020

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

SAD TO SEE THAT YOU REMOVED BEST PSYCHOTHERAPIST/MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDER? WAS HOPING YOU WOULD CONTINUE TO ‘RAISE THE BAR’ BY CONTINUING THIS CATEGORY TO SUPPORT MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS AND NORMALIZATION. I’D LIKE TO WRITE IN: EDWARD MOCKUS, PHD. I

BOULDER WEEKLY

• Gifts for any cook • Fun and colorful kitchenware • Specialty foods, local and imported • Gadgets, cookware, and kitchen essentials • Louisville’s one-of-a-kind kitchen shop

FITNESS&HEALTH SUSAN FRANCE

Present this coupon for

15% OFF

BEST KITCHEN SUPPLY STORE

a single regularly priced item. *some exclusions apply

728 Main Street • Louisville • 720.484.6825 www.SingingCookStore.com

orangepoppyspa

ORANGE POPPY SPA HAIR SALON

VOODOO HAIR LOUNGE 2100 Pearl St., 303-449-4453 Silver: Twig Hair Salon Bronze: Orange Poppy Spa Write-in: Zinke Hair Studio

ou ought to trust your hairdresser or barber. We all likely have a story about a haircut, styling or color gone wrong, and so once we find someone who takes our desires and implements them into great hair care, we cling to them. For our readers, the fine folks at VooDoo Hair Lounge are those trusted professionals. Their fully trained, creative and compassionate hair professionals ensure that you’ll leave their Boulder digs with hair that makes you feel great about yourself.

PET BOARDING

COTTONWOOD KENNELS

7275 Valmont Road, 303-442-2602 Silver: Camp Bow Wow Bronze: Bowhaus

hen you have to go out of town, and your four-legged friend can’t come, you want to board them at the place that cares: Cottonwood Kennels. Nestled on a small farm just east of Boulder, Cottonwood Kennels provides a safe, comfortable and fun atmosphere for your pet to stay, play, eat, sleep and repeat. The staff at Cottonwood Kennels believes that every animal is an individual, so whether your floof needs a comfy indoor suite or prefers an indoor-outdoor run with their own private patio, Cottonwood caters to your pet’s personality and needs. Kitties get their own space on the second floor with plenty of space to explore and toys to ignore.

CHIROPRACTOR

APEX CHIROPRACTIC

183 S. Taylor Ave., Unit 162, Louisville, 720-328-1790 Silver: The Joint Chiropractic Bronze: Boulder Sports Chiropractic

hether you have pain from an athletic injury, issues with substance abuse, strain from pregnancy or even emotional distress from depression, Apex Chiropractic can help you achieve a better quality of life through evidence-based treatment. Apex Chiropractic helps “tune the nervous system” by connecting the brain to the body through specific, scientific, neurological-based chiropractic care. Dr. Shane Kurth and the Apex team use state-of-the-art technology, the three-part NeuroTECH Exam and the Torque Release Technique to pinpoint the precise areas your body’s symptoms are sourcing from. No wonder our readers say Apex is the place to go to get your body and mind aligned. BOULDER WEEKLY

SELF-CARE IS VITAL TO YOUR HEALTHCARE. WWW.ORANGEPOPPYSPA.COM

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

#ORANGEPOPPYSPA

JUNE 18, 2020 65

FITNESS&HEALTH SUSAN FRANCE

DAY SPA

ST JULIEN HOTEL & SPA

900 Walnut St., 877-303-0900 Silver: JLounge Natural Nail Bar and Spa Bronze: The Dragontree

reat yourself with a trip to the St Julien Hotel & Spa. It truly is a relaxing, refreshing and rejuvenating experience. The spa offers a host of services from massages to skincare, wraps and scrubs, waxing, manicures/pedicures, hair care, makeup and so much more. Have a bite to eat, have a drink... just prepare to relax and give in to comfort when you make a reservation at the St Julien Hotel & Spa. Our readers say you won’t regret it. GYM/FITNESS CENTER

COLORADO ATHLETIC CLUB — BOULDER 1821 30th St., 303-501-1700 Silver: Kondition Fitness Bronze: YMCA of Boulder Valley

how of hands: How many of you missed going to the gym during the lockdown? Yeah, us too. The people at Colorado Athletic Club — Boulder worked extra hard from the start to make the place feel as welcoming as possible. Complete with top-of-the-line equipment, fitness classes and happy hour outings, those pounds will be melting off in no time. Honest, you’re going to have to buy new pants.

VETERINARY

ALPINE HOSPITAL FOR ANIMALS

3210 Valmont Road, 303-443-9661 Silver: Humane Society of Boulder Valley Bronze: Arapahoe Animal Hospital Write-in: Indian Peaks Veterinary Hospital

A PILATES STUDIO

BOLDER PILATES OWNER/FOUNDER DONNA LIGON

BOLDER PILATES

3012 Folsom St., 303-544-5930 Silver: BoulderBodyWorks Bronze: Mecha Write-in: Care·To Pilates

older Pilates is for Pilates your way. Not your neighbors to your left or right’s way: Your way. No one else lives inside your body, you do, and that’s why Bolder Pilates instructors and classes aren’t concerned with your neighbors, they’re concerned with you. Owner/founder Donna Ligon wears her heart on her sleeve and wants everyone to feel welcome and loved. It took her 15 years to find an answer to her chronic back pain, and when she did, everything clicked. Whatever you’re feeling these days, check out Bolder Pilates. It just might click.

MASSAGE

ST JULIEN HOTEL & SPA

lpine Hospital for Animals understands the special role your pet plays in your family. The team is dedicated to providing the highest quality medicine and surgery with compassion and an emphasis on client education. They offer a wide range of services from medical to surgical, wellness, preventative care and more. It’s no wonder Alpine Hospital for Animals is our readers’ top pick. RECREATIONAL DISPENSARY

THE FARM

2801 Iris Ave., 303-440-1323 5420 Apapahoe Ave., Unit D, 303-443-0240 Silver: Terrapin Care Station Bronze: Ajoya

he founders of The Farm and The Farm Express come from a background of health and wellness, and also art and design. These passions intersect at The Farm’s dispensaries, which are not only locally owned but also source 100% of their cannabis in-house. Expert cultivators are on staff and use organic, sustainable growing techniques to achieve the highest quality plants anywhere in the country. The whole staff sees themselves as cannabis ambassadors, so don’t be shy next time you go: Say hi and ask some questions.

900 Walnut St., 877-303-0900 Silver: The Dragontree Bronze: Fixt Movement Write-in: Relaxing Station

ur readers say the best place to get a massage in Boulder — and there are plenty of great massage professionals and businesses in town — is the St Julien Hotel & Spa. We can see why: St Julien offers a suite of massage variations, with you, the massage recipient, in mind. Get a classic massage with your level of desired pressure, that circulates blood and oxygen through your body and relieves tension. There’s also deep-tissue, prenatal, hand and foot massages available. You can always add in CBD or stones to make your experience a great one.

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BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

READERCOMMENT KONDITION IS AN INCLUSIVE AND WELCOMING GYM THAT I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

BOULDER WEEKLY

Thank you for your support!

Best Juice/Smoothie Best Organic Restaurant

Save $5 off your first order with “BOULDERWEEKLY” at WholeSol.com until the end of the month.

FITNESS&HEALTH SUSAN FRANCE

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

BEST PET STORE!

•Bowls, Beds, Leashes, etc. •Barkday Cakes •Pet Foods

2828 30th St. • Boulder • 303.245.9909 www.pcspantry.com Hours: Mon & Fri 10-7 • Tue, Wed, Thurs, Sat 10-6 • Sun 10-5

MMJ DISPENSARY

AJOYA

1100 W. Dillon Road, Unit 3, Louisville, 303-665-5596 Silver: Terrapin Care Station Bronze: 14er Boulder Write-in: Magnolia Road Cannabis Co.

MATTHEW TREECE, AJOYA MARKETING SALES AND SOCIAL MEDIA EMPLOYEE

joya will help you become a better version of yourself. That’s its promise. Sometimes we wish that Ajoya would make other people a better version of themselves. You can lead a horse to water, but — you know how this goes. Regardless, the world’s external pain is simply an emotional manifestation of the physical pain many of us hold. And without falling down a prescription pill rabbit hole, Ajoya has ways to dull that pain, relieve irritants and clear your mind. A pain-free day sounds lovely. Now imagine it at the right price with little sacrifice. That’s not fantasy, that’s Ajoya.

Thank you for voting us Best Veterinarian in Boulder

NAIL SALON

JLOUNGE NATURAL NAIL BAR AND SPA

We are grateful for your support! 3210 Valmont Road, Boulder 303-443-9661 www.alpinehospitalforanimals.com 68 JUNE 18, 2020

3003 Walnut St., 720-484-6669 Silver: Contempo Nails Bronze: Boulder Nails Write-in: Tiffany’s Nail & Spa LLC

ood. Clean. Fun. That’s the motto at JLounge Natural Nail Bar and Spa. Co-founders Julie and Jen started JLounge with a mission to offer natural services in a modern setting, providing a high-quality day spa experience. According to our readers, they can buff, shape, trim, soak, massage and polish like no other. Add on a good scrub, detox and hot towel rub for good measure. Come enjoy some alone time, use it as an excuse to catch up with friends or celebrate someone special. One thing is for sure; our readers say JLounge is the Boulder nail salon of choice.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

Thank You Boulder! Our Patients are the Best!

NORTH BOULDER DENTAL GROUP Drs. Murphy, Sica, Welden, Nielsen, Kyger and Dhaliwal

BEST DENTAL CARE 8 YEARS IN A ROW!

In celebration of being named “Best of Boulder” for 8 years in a row. North Boulder Dental is donating $3000 to Boulder community charities. Thank you Boulder. 1001 North St., Boulder • 303-447-1042 www.BoulderDental.com • PatientCare@BoulderDental.com

SUSAN FRANCE

RETAIL LIQUOR STORE

HAZEL’S BEVERAGE WORLD 1955 28th St., 303-447-1955 Silver: Liquor Mart (closed) Bronze: Superior Liquor Mart

xisting somewhere between HAZEL’S your corner liquor store and BEVERAGE WORLD a big box chain, Hazel’s EMPLOYEE Beverage World has it all. MAJD Seriously, it’s like a liquor vacaADUHAMDA tion in there. It always has what you’re looking for (ranging from the latest beer release to a Provencal rosé, let’s say) a bunch of stuff you had no idea you needed (glassware, literature, barware), things you’ve always wanted to try (check the locked spirits cabinets, there’s magic inside), and a helpful staff to guide you. They’re hard to stump, you can try, but chances are Hazel’s has it. And if it does, you gotta buy it. It’s an unspoken contract.

COMPUTER — REPAIR

APPLE STORE

1755 29th St., 720-479-9451 Silver: Boulder Mac Repair Bronze: The Mac Shack

o company has better branding and stronger loyalty than Apple, and Boulder Weekly readers are as loyal as they come.You love your iPhones, iPads, iWatches and the like, which means that if you have to take your beloved electronic friend in for a tune-up, the Geniuses at the Apple Store are going to treat you right. They know that a dead phone is like a death in the family and that an iPad that can’t connect to the Wi-Fi causes existential despair. Afterall, they’re Geniuses; Geniuses who fix our problems in style.

BEST BIKE SHOP

THANK YOU, BOULDER! We’re truly honored you wrote us in as Best Bike Shop In appreciation, bring this ad in to upgrade a Standard Tune to a Pro Tune for free!

a lifetime of riding, wrenching and racing at your service

BoulderBicycleWorks.com *Offer valid thru 12/31/20. Applies to labor only. 1 per person.

70 JUNE 18, 2020

SAVE $50!

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

2886 Bluff St • 720-287-2884 I

BOULDER WEEKLY

We take the stress out of moving. At Klatt Moving & Storage, we understand that moving is one of the most stressful times of your life. For more than 30 years, we have been taking the stress out of our customersâ€™ moves. Whether your move is residential or commercial, you can count on Klatt for the ultimate in professionalism, skill and honesty. We can handle any moving job from beginning to end, including packing and storage services.

Call for a free estimate and find out why Klatt Moving is the best moving company in Boulder County

RETAIL SUSAN FRANCE

MUSIC STORE

NEW BUSINESS

GIFT STORE

3101 28th St., 303-449-0516 Silver: Wildwood Guitars Bronze: Lafayette Music

2795 Pearl St., Suite 102 Silver: True Bloom Spa + Wellness Bronze: Rosetta Hall

1235 Pearl St., 303-449-5847 Silver: Jacque Michelle Bronze: Bliss

WOODSONGS

CARE·TO PILATES

eel like it’s time to WOODSONGS SALES pick up the guitar ASSOCIATES again? Inspired to try your hand at ukuleles DEREK HAINES since you can’t cur(FOREGROUND) AND rently visit the PETER CURTISS islands? Looking for a teacher to show you the way around a mandolin? Woodsongs has been serving the Boulder County community since 1971, selling quality instruments, offering expert repair, and providing a variety of guitar and other stringed instrument lessons at Woodsongs Studios. You can shop online or check out the store for yourself. Regardless, our readers say this is the best music store in town, so you’ll want to check it out.

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tarting a new business is rarely easy. But it is often rewarding. After years of practicing Pilates both in New York and Boulder, Estonia-native Kerttu Veske decided to put down roots and set up shop here in town with her new studio, Care·To Pilates. With a background as a contortionist, Kerttu (pronounced care to) understands the importance of mixing strength with flexibility, alignment with movement. It’s a philosophy that can be applied to Pilates practice, other workouts and everyday life. Care·To Pilates may be new, but if it’s left up to our readers, it’s here to stay.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

PEPPERCORN

hen our readers are looking for a special gift, they head to Peppercorn, where they can find a selection of beautiful imports, top-of-the-line appliances, impossible-to-find kitchen gadgets, gourmet and imported foods, and much more. It’s better than any big box store. Reflecting the free spirit of Boulder, Peppercorn has remained independently owned and operated since opening its doors more than 30 years ago. Combine that with a knowledgeable staff, and it’s no wonder our readers call it their favorite gift shop year-after-year.

BOULDER WEEKLY

SUSAN FRANCE

RETAIL TATTOO/PIERCING PARLOR

RISING TIDE TATTOO EMPORIUM & GALLERY 3193 Walnut St., 303-500-5046 Silver: Tribal Rites Tattoo & Piercing Bronze: Bolder Ink

hill Bartell started what would become PHILL BARTELL, Rising Tide Tattoo Emporium & Gallery in OWNER OF Boulder back in 2005. Since then, the shop’s RISING TIDE grown to include several regular artists and TATTOO visiting tattooers. No matter what ink you want on your body, there’s a capable artist at Rising Tide to get the job done to your satisfaction, and they’ll do it with safety and comfort in mind. Our readers say Rising Tide artists help them create unique pieces of body art that they can be proud of sporting on their skin for, well, as long as they have skin. SKI/SNOWBOARD SHOP

CHRISTY SPORTS

2000 30th St., 303-442-2493 Silver: Epic Mountain Gear Bronze: Neptune Mountaineering

o A-Basin just got some fresh snow, and you’re looking to hit the slopes, asap. But oh no, you can’t find your goggles, or your board, or your ski jacket. You might want to launch a search party, but lest that sweet, sweet pow be taken by other, more-equipped mountain recreationists, head to Christy Sports, our readers’ choice for best ski/snowboard shop. There, you can buy all the mountain sports equipment you need, or you can rent them at affordable rates.

STORAGE FACILITY

AAA STORAGE CONTAINERS 4880 Pearl St., 303-938-8286 Silver: Guardian Storage Bronze: Ace Self Storage

e all need a little extra storage sometimes. Maybe you’re waiting to see what your next step will be. Or you’re going home for the summer before returning to campus next fall. Perhaps you got that fellowship of your dreams in the Galapagos Islands and need to leave some stuff behind. Or you just need a climate-controlled space for that stamp collection. Or your business needs to store all that marketing material for next season. Whatever your reason, AAA Storage Containers has sizes for every need, video surveillance and no admin fees. It’s our readers’ choice for the best storage facility.

TIRE SHOP

PET STORE

DISCOUNT TIRE

3215 28th St., 303-440-6811 740 N. Highway 287, Lafayette, 303-248-5680 379 S. Hover St., Longmont, 303-774-9869 Silver: Barnsley Tire Co. Bronze: Big O Tires

ires. You need new tires, and maybe you’ve been putting it off for a while. Waiting until you got through winter, waiting until your calendar cleared up a little, and waiting until you were mentally prepared to commit. Well, hesitate no longer. Ask yourself: Soft or hard? One grips the road better, but the other lasts longer. Highway or all-terrain? Narrow or wide? There’s a lot to consider, so let the good people at Discount Tire lead the way. They’ve been your pick time and again, why fix what’s not broken?

BOULDER WEEKLY

P.C.’S PANTRY

2828 30th St., 303-245-9909 Silver: Humane Society of Boulder Valley Bronze: PetSmart

o your pooch or kitty needs something. Maybe your dog is looking sadly into an empty food bowl, or your cat has been meowing, loudly, since 3 a.m. Our readers say you should head to P.C.’s Pantry, where you’ll find plenty of top-of-the-line dog and cat food options, as well as toys, beds and sundry goods for your furry friend. P.C.’s also whips up biscuits, meatloaves and Barkday Cakes in its in-shop bakery. You can’t beat that — no wonder our readers love P.C.’s.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

READERCOMMENT YOU REALLY NEED TO BREAK APART THE TATTOO/PIERCING CATEGORY BECAUSE A LOT OF TATTOO SHOPS DON’T DO PIERCING AND A LOT OF PIERCING SHOPS DON’T DO TATTOOS.

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NATURAL FOODS STORE

HOT TUB/JACUZZI

GROCERY STORE

2685 Pearl St., 303-402-1400 100 W. South Boulder Road, Lafayette, 303-926-1600 1745 N. Main St., Longmont, 303-684-8200 Silver: Sprouts Farmers Market Bronze: Whole Foods Market

2347 South St., 303-443-0821 Silver: Mountain Mist Pool & Spa Bronze: Heat Wave Stove and Spa

Multiple locations Silver: Lucky’s Market Bronze: Whole Foods Market

NATURAL GROCERS

ere in Boulder County, we NATURAL GROCERS like our food clean, unproPRODUCE CREW cessed and, above all, natural. MEMBER LAYO CORONA And that’s literally the name of the game at Natural Grocers, our readers’ choice for the best natural foods store — and there are plenty to choose from in Boulder. Natural Grocers is an ideal place to do all your grocery shopping, but there’s plenty of unique, natural items for your kitchen, pantry and medicine cabinet. The choice to shop at Natural Grocers is a choice for your health.

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MR. POOL, INC.

olorado — this landlocked, mountainous state — isn’t known for its love of water. But if you’ve never experienced the soothing waters of a hot tub on a cold winter’s day or after a multi-day hike, epic bike ride or a long day at the office in front of the computer, you’re missing out. But no worries, the folks at Mr. Pool, Inc. can help fix that. Offering everything from custom construction and a large inventory of sustainable options to repair, winterization, and water chemistry classes, Mr. Pool is the best place to go, our readers say.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

KING SOOPERS

ou never thought you’d be so happy to see a King Soopers employee welcoming you to the store as you did back in March, didn’t you? Frankly, a lot of us take grocery stores for granted. You go in, get your ice cream and toilet paper, maybe gripe to yourself about the prices, hit the checkout line and get out of there. But during the pandemic, the grocery store didn’t just become a place of refuge and sustenance, but a minivacation from isolation. You were never so happy to find they still had lemon Noosa, weren’t out of tangerine Le Croix, and that they now sold beer, glorious beer. With a family-driven atmosphere backed by corporate buying power, King Soopers is the best of both worlds. And they are absolutely, positively an essential service. Take time to thank a checker next time you stop by.

BOULDER WEEKLY

AUTO SERVICE/REPAIR

HOSHI MOTORS

2504 Spruce St., 303-449-6632 Silver: Super Rupair Bronze: Fisher Honda

BOOKSTORE

RETAIL

f you live in Boulder County, then it’s a pretty good bet that you drive a Subaru. Heck, if you cruise past the Boulder Weekly parking lot, you’ll see a couple of them lined-up like they pass ‘em out when you cross county lines. And as great as Subarus are, things happen. Tires blow out, doors get dinged, engines make an odd knocking sound, and you’re pretty sure everything pulls to the left ever since you ran over that pothole last November. It’s not your fault — you’re a perfectly good driver — and the fine folks at Hoshi Motors know that. They’ll service your Subaru — or Toyota, Honda or Acura — with a straight-forward and honest explanation because the only thing more frustrating than whacking that pothole on Broadway is not knowing why it costs so damn much to fix it. Hoshi Motors lets you know why, and knowing is half the battle.

FLOORING • CABINETS • COUNTERTOPS • WINDOW TREATMENTS

BOULDER BOOK STORE

1107 Pearl St., 303-447-2074 Silver: The Bookworm Bronze: Trident Booksellers & Cafe

ith regular author readings, a huge selection of new releases and an equally large collection of used books, it’s no surprise our readers say their favorite bookstore is Boulder Book Store. Join the Readers Guild and receive a one-year membership that gives you a 10% discount on everything in the store (except periodicals and some Naropa textbooks), 15% off the already low price of used and sale books, exclusive sales and seasonal gifts, and the ability to reserve seats at instore events. Looking to surprise yourself or a loved one? Buy a Mystery Bag or a Care Package, filled with books and goodies that are sure to lift your spirits.

THANK YOU BOULDER! VOTED BEST CARPET/FLOORING 16 YEARS in a row

CAMERA/VIDEO/ PHOTOFINISHING

MIKE’S CAMERA

2500 Pearl St., 303-443-1715 Silver: Costco Wholesale Bronze: Photo Craft Imaging

bet you thought your phone’s camera was enough, didn’t you? Well, if you’re going to take photos of your food and post them on Instagram, then yeah, the phone does the trick. But then you wanted to capture more of the world, and suddenly the phone didn’t seem good enough to capture the images in your head. And if all that time at home this spring spurred that long-burning desire to start a photo or video blog about your cooking, brewing or planting skills, then it’s time to upgrade to something serious. The good people at Mike’s Camera will get you what you want and what you need, and you’ll be an influencer in no time.

BOULDER WEEKLY

Serving Boulder County Since 1958 4920 N 28th St, Boulder • 303.442.3221 www.AtlasFlooringBoulder.com I

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

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RETAIL BATH & BODY SHOP

LUSH

1312 Pearl St., 303-444-5874 Silver: Rebecca’s Herbal Apothecary & Supply Bronze: Pharmaca

hether it’s out of necessity or indulgence, if you need a bath and body item, then Lush is the spot our readers say you should go. That’s because of its well-curated and large selection of bath and body goods, which include products for hair, skin, face and body. We’re talking moisturizers, masks, makeup, soap, bath oils, perfume, shampoos and so much more. There are plenty of products for both men and women, so what are you doing? Get down to Lush and pamper yourself.

LUSH MANAGERIN-TRAINING MEGHAN DRISCOLL

CD/RECORD STORE

BART’S RECORD SHOP

1625 Folsom St., 303-444-1760 Silver: Albums on the Hill Bronze: Absolute Vinyl Records & Stereo

ost of us can remember our first record — or cassette tape or CD. Some of us can probably remember all three. (‘Christmas with the Chipmunks,’ ‘Mariah Carey’ and Nirvana’s ‘Nevermind’ and no regrets). Music albums, as complete entities, make memories, say the things we don’t have words for and convey emotions we didn’t even know we were feeling. If you’re looking for the perfect album to fit your mood, the experts at Bart’s Record Shop are here to help. With a combined experience of 102 years, it’s no wonder our readers vote these folks best of the best year after year.

CARPET/FLOORING

ATLAS FLOORING INC.

4920 N. 28th St., 303-442-3221 Silver: Carpet Exchange Bronze: Lafayette Flooring

loors. We step all over them, and they never say a word. Anyone who’s remodeled a room or an entire house knows how many decisions are involved in picking and installing flooring and carpeting, so it’s good we have a place like Atlas Flooring Inc. to take the headache out of the process. Its large selection, qualified team and service offerings make adding, fixing or refinishing floors a cinch.

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Best street to take when you’re effin’ tired of Broadway NINTH STREET It may be downhill, but trying to get from The Hill to Pearl Street during the middle of the day can be brutal. The busses, the bikes, the backed-up turn lanes, the pedestrian crossings, the congestion. The people who have no idea where they are and what they are doing. The people who know exactly where they are and what they are doing, but still act like nincompoops. There’s got to be a better way, right? Yep: Ninth Street. It’ll take a minute or two longer, but what’s a minute or two in the grand scheme of things? You probably won’t miss it. And you can enjoy looking at all the houses most of us can’t afford. Not to mention looking at the graveyard we’re all destined for. Who said driving in Boulder wasn’t uplifting? BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST DEALER USED

Voted the best place in Boulder to buy a used Subaru, and get it repaired too!

BEST AUTO SERVICE/REPAIR

Service 1309 Yarmouth Ave.

Sales 4403 Broadway St.

QUALITY VEHICLES FOR THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN ENVIRONMENT 303.442.6508 • www.superrupair.com BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

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AUTO DEALER — USED

SUPER RUPAIR

4403 Broadway, 303-442-6508 1309 Yarmouth Ave., 303-442-6508 Silver: Fisher Honda Bronze: Larry H. Miller Toyota Boulder

f we didn’t know better, we’d say Subarus originated in Colorado. It seems like every third car on the road comes from the Japanese manufacturer, some brand spanking new, others decades old and still running great. We suppose it’s no surprise that Boulder’s Super Rupair is our readers’ go-to place to find the perfect used car for all their adventures. Since 1979, Super Rupair has been a Subaru-only auto repair shop and has a fleet of used cars all fixed up and ready to go. Since all they do is Subaru, all you have to do is check them out.

KIRBY SAWYER, GENERAL MANAGER AT SUPER RUPAIR

CLOTHING — WOMEN’S

NORDSTROM RACK

Best place to space out BUCKINGHAM PARK Head up Lee Hill, then Old Stage Road and, at the end of the road, you’ll end up at Buckingham Park. There, you can sit on rocks or pebbled beaches and let the sounds of the rushing waters of Left Hand Creek take your mind off the world. Bonus relaxation points if you bring your beverage of choice, some comfy chairs and make a day of it.

1601 29th St., 720-887-3588 Silver: Anthropologie Bronze: Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI) Write-in: Wallaroo Hat Company

esearch shows that “retail therapy” actually works. It can provide social connections and help ease life’s transitions. It can boost creativity and provide space to relax and even escape. It can help cheer your spirits or help you celebrate significant life events. When our readers need a little boost, they head to Nordstrom Rack to find everything from business clothes to casual wear to accessories, shoes and swimwear all in one place. With a variety of brands and even some resale options, the Rack is the place to go. It’s no wonder people say, “When the going gets tough, the tough go shopping.”

Thank You

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BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

RETAIL SUSAN FRANCE

Best place to experience Mars, Incorporated’s test kitchen WALGREENS ON THE HILL

TOY STORE

GRANDRABBIT’S TOY SHOPPE

2525 Arapahoe Ave., 303-443-0780 Silver: Into the Wind Bronze: Time Warp Comics

randrabbit’s Toy Shoppe is a staple of Boulder County. It’s where our readers go to find educational toys, books, creative inspiration and so much more. Peruse the huge selection and test out things you like for yourself. The unique range of rotating merchandise has kept our readers coming back again and again as the generations turn.

MOVING COMPANY

TAYLOR MOVING AND STORAGE, LLC Multiple locations, 303-443-5885 Silver: Flatirons Moving Bronze: Free Range Movers

ince opening in 1997, Taylor Moving and Storage, LLC quickly grew into Boulder’s favorite mover. Taylor Moving offers complete residential and commercial packing, moving and storage services. It also offers experienced loading and unloading of your rental truck, self-storage and shipping containers. The professional team of movers will do a necessary disassembly and reassembly and place everything where you request it. With prices explained upfront, and no hidden charges for gas, mileage, truck fees or other services, Taylor Moving makes one of the toughest experiences in life as easy as it can be.

If you’ve never pursued the candy racks at the Walgreens on The Hill, then you don’t know what it’s like out there, candy wise. Sure, you could head down to the Pearl Street Mall and check out all the old-timey candy at Rocket Fizz, but you’d be missing out on Popcorn M&Ms, Cashew Butter Snickers and Moringa Milky Ways. Who would ever want a Marzipan Twix, you ask yourself. No one, apparently. That’s why they move the box next to the register, discount it to three for 50 cents and rook you. It seemed like a good idea at the time, and most are harmless. But, now and then, you get something that truly is an affront to the gods, and that’s when you know you’re living on the edge.

VOTED BEST ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC IN BOULDER COUNTY!

OF COUNTY 2020 WINNER

Photo by Bill Masure, Artair Photography

SERVING BOULDER COUNTY FOR 18 YEARS

INJURY RECOVERY • SPORTS ENDURANCE AND PERFORMANCE HEALTH AND WELLNESS • MALE AND FEMALE FERTILITY SURGERY RECOVERY AND LABOR SUPPORT AT BOULDER COMMUNITY HEALTH (BCH)

2500 Arapahoe Ave., Suite 290 / Boulder, CO 80302 / 303.665.5515 / acuboulder.com / acbwellness@acupunctureclinicofboulder.com BOULDER WEEKLY

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

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CLOTHING — USED

FURNITURE

1813 Pearl St., 303-938-1924 Silver: Rags Consignments Bronze: Common Threads

2500 30th St., Unit 120, 303-386-3423 Silver: No Place Like Home Bronze: American Furniture Warehouse

BUFFALO EXCHANGE

CLUTTER CONSIGNMENT

n this modern world of consumption, it’s the used clothing and goods stores that offer a respite from an endless cycle of buy, use, throw away. But not only is buying used clothing good for the environment, it’s just plain fun. At Buffalo Exchange, our readers’ favorite place to buy lightly worn clothes, people can drop off their clothes, have the store team sell them (if they’re in great shape), and get a little bit of cash in return upon sale. Buffalo Exchange only picks items in excellent condition, so shoppers can rest assured they’re getting like-new items at a discount.

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urnishing a new place can be exhausting. Updating your space can feel impossible. The perfect accent piece to complete a room can feel elusive. Don’t be overwhelmed, Clutter Consignment is Boulder’s favorite furniture retailer with endless options for all your furnishing and home décor needs. Consigners get to pass on their treasures; buyers know they’re buying quality items vetted by Clutter’s expert staff. You can also check out the online gallery before heading in if you know what you’re looking for. There’s something for everyone, and something new every day, at Clutter Consignment.

BEST OF BOULDER COUNTY ’20

BOULDER WEEKLY

Keep Niwot Strong Challenge In Niwot and all of our local towns and cities we are challenging all of our residents to think before they buy:

Can I get this locally?