FA LL
2026
MEET
GRETCHEN
TEBOCKHORST
MANNY BARELLA’S ESQUITES CORNBREAD
Q & A with
CHEF RICHARD HAMMONS
TORY BURCH
STELLAR FASHION DESIGNER
TOP 20:
DENVER FALL MUST-DOS
SECRETS & DREAMS:
PLAYA ESMERALDA, MICHES
SHORELINE SPLENDOR: QUIET LUXURY IN
RHODE ISLAND 63 YEARS ON THE SAND
LEGACY MEETS HAWAI’I at KAIMANA BEACH HOTEL
MUST HAVES:
FALL GIFT IDEAS
TOWN & COUNTRY
CARLSBAD
A HALLMARK MOVIE DESTINATION denvercoloradomagazine.com denvercoloradomagazine.com
COLORADO’S PREMIERE LUXURY MAGAZINE CELEBRATING LIFESTYLE, PLACES, FASHION AND CULTURE
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720.405.2020 Available at 2020EYEVENUE.com
Why Luxury Eyewear Deserves an Optician, Not a Shopping Cart In a world where almost everything can be bought with a click, eyewear has quietly been reduced to just another commodity. Upload your prescription, choose a frame, wait for delivery. Easy—until it isn’t. Because when it comes to luxury and quality eyewear, convenience should never come at the expense of vision, comfort, or craftsmanship.
Luxury Frames Are Precision Instruments, Not Just Accessories An optician ensures: • • •
Proper lens measurements and fitting Balanced weight distribution across the nose and ears Online retailers rely on averages. Your face is not average.
Fit Is Everything (And You Can’t Download It) A frame that looks stunning but slides, pinches, or causes pressure headaches will end up living in a drawer. Opticians don’t just “sell glasses”—they fit them. In-person fitting allows:
• • •
Frame selection that complements your face shape and lifestyle Professional adjustments for nose pads, temple length, and frame wrap Immediate comfort testing—before you commit
Luxury eyewear should feel effortless from the moment you put it on.
Your Vision Deserves Expertise, Not Algorithms Even the most accurate prescription can fail if lenses are poorly aligned. A trained optician accounts for:
• • •
How you naturally hold your head How the frame sits when you move How your eyes track and focus throughout the day
These details directly affect clarity, eye strain, and long-term visual comfort-things an online form simply can’t see.
Aftercare Is Part of the Luxury Experience When you buy luxury eyewear from an optician, the relationship doesn’t end at checkout. You gain:
• • • •
Complimentary adjustments over time Professional cleaning and maintenance Advice on lens upgrades and coatings A human who knows your eyes, not just your order number
That ongoing service is built into the value—not added later as a problem to solve.
True Luxury Is Personal Luxury is not about speed or shortcuts. It’s about craftsmanship, expertise, fit, and care. Buying luxury eyewear online strips away the very elements that make it exceptional. An optician transforms eyewear from a product into an experience—tailored, precise, and designed for you. Because when it comes to your vision, “good enough” isn’t good enough. And luxury, done properly, is never one-size-fits-all.
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H E L P I N G P E O P L E N AV I GAT E T H E FINANCIAL AND AS P E C TS O F NON-FINANCIAL CHANGE Raquel Hinman, CFP® has more than 25 years experience offering financial planning and investment management to people going through a major life transition. Hinman Financial Planning, Inc. is a fee-only fiduciary that can help you with: • Retirement planning • Understanding the impact of an inheritance • Post-divorce planning Hinman Financial Planning, Inc. is a fee-only Registered Investment Advisor. We do not sell products or earn commissions. We do provide financial planning and investment solutions that are tailored to your needs, keeping you at the center of the relationship.
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About the Editor Trisha Ventker EDITOR IN CHIEF Trisha Ventker CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER Trisha Ventker FASHION EDITOR Richard Carroll Trisha Ventker is a published author, award-winning photographic artist, branding and viral visibitity expert and publisher of Denver, Luxury magazine. Reader impressions have surpassed 14 million for the magazines, with the Denver Luxury magazine leading readership, being nationwide.
CONTRIBUTORS Manny Barella Richard Carroll Michael Moore David Rossa Thomas Ventker Trisha Ventker
Denver Colorado Luxury magazine has covered over 20 major fashion houses, and in addition to the local and international fashion scene, featured are international and fashion travel, local and worldwide celebrities, food and wine, and the bustling Denver art scene. Ventker is best known for her Amazon best selling book Internet Dates From Hell which had the movie rights optioned by Paula Wagner. Trisha is also one of the first Indie Book authors to have a book optioned for the big screen.
NATIONAL AND REGIONAL ADVERTISING trisha@ventkermedia.com
Ventker is originally from Manhattan, New York City. She presently resides in Colorado for the last 19 years, with her husband and son.
cover photo credit : David Rossa
VENTKER MEDIA GROUP ventkermediagroup.com
Inside Feature Meet Gretchen TeBockhorst, Builder of Content Creation for the Future Home Mile High Style: 5 Ways to Fall-ify Your Home Fashion Tory Burch, Stellar Fashion Designer Town & Country Arts & Culture Meet Nicole Korbe, Artist Owner of NKollectiv and EASEL Food & Wine Manny Barella’s Esquites Cornbread Q & A with Chef Richard Hammons Travel Carlsbad, a Hallmark Movie Destination Shoreline Splendor: Quiet Luxury in Rhode Island Secrets & Dreams Playa Esmeralda, Miches Sixty-Three Years on the Sand: Legacy Meets Hawai’i at Kaimana Beach Hotel Health & Beauty Fall 2026 Makeup Trends Q & A with Alysa Paul, President at Facial Aesthetics Gift Guide Must Haves: Fall Gift Ideas
Denver Guide Hotels, Restaurants, Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches Boutiques and Culture
Contributors
Richard Carroll “Tory Burch, Stellar Fashion Designer”
Manny Barella “Esquites Cornbread”
Michael Moore “Fall 2026 Makeup Trends”
Contributors
David Rossa “Town & Country”
Tom Ventker “Mile High Style: 5 Ways to Fall-ify Your Home”
Trisha Ventker “Carlsbad, a Hallmark Movie Destination” “Shoreline Splendor: Quiet Luxury in Rhode Island” “Sixty-Three Years on the Sand: Legacy Meets Hawai’i at Kaimana Beach Hotel” “Secrets & Dreams Playa Esmeralda, Miches”
F E A T
T U R E
Q Meet Gretchen TeBockhorst Gretchen TeBockhorst is an award-winning public relations and marketing communications expert and a recognized leader in the hospitality and lifestyle industries. Before launching her own ventures, she led in-house PR and marketing for Adams Golf, 7-Up Group and Richard Sandoval Hospitality, where she formulated brand strategies, launched a retail line, released the New Latin Flavors cookbook and secured national media coverage in outlets including The Wall Street Journal, Food and Wine Magazine, TODAY and CBS This Morning. Since launching Prim+Co, Gretchen has grown it into an award-winning PR firm with clients such as SoulCycle, Kimpton Hotels, Shake Shack and Sweetgreen, earning recognition as one of the “Best PR Firms in Denver” by Expertise.com and a spot in ColoradoBiz Magazine’s Best of Colorado issue three years running. This year, Gretchen was honored with the Denver Business Journal’s Outstanding Women in Business Award. Gretchen has since expanded her entrepreneurial footprint by co-founding Frameflow alongside Kelly Stoker, Prim+Co’s VP of Digital. Born out of the gaps they saw firsthand in booking reliable, trustworthy creative talent, Frameflow is a live creator marketplace connecting local businesses with vetted photographers, videographers and content creators. Gretchen also prioritizes giving back, with Prim+Co providing pro-bono work for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital-Rocky Mountain Region and personally supporting The Garett Bolles Foundation. She lives in Littleton with her husband and three sons.
A with
Gretchen TeBockhorst, Builder of Content Creation for the Future
D G
You founded Prim + Co. more than a decade ago. What was the vision behind the agency, and how has it evolved over the years?
D G
Tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to pursue a career in public relations and entrepreneurship. I’m a Colorado native, wife, mom to three boys and the founder of Prim + Co., a public relations and marketing agency I started more than a decade ago. I’ve spent more than 20 years working with hospitality, restaurant and lifestyle brands, and I genuinely love helping businesses grow. Whether it’s opening a neighborhood restaurant or launching a major development, I enjoy being part of those milestones and helping tell the stories behind them. Entrepreneurship wasn’t something I had planned. After a corporate restructuring eliminated my role as director of PR and marketing for an international hospitality group, I began freelancing while figuring out what came next. One client led to another, and before I knew it, I had built a business I truly loved. Looking back, what initially felt like a setback became one of the greatest opportunities of my career. It gave me the chance to build Prim, and more recently, co-found Frameflow.
From the beginning, I wanted Prim to feel like an extension of our clients’ teams, not just another agency. Public relations has always been about relationships, and I wanted to build a company where clients knew we cared as much about their success as they did. What started as a one-woman business has grown into a full-service agency working with restaurants, hotels, real estate developments, tourism organizations and lifestyle brands across the Mountain West. We’ve expanded our services, grown an incredible leadership team and celebrated more than a decade in business, but the heart of Prim hasn’t changed. We still believe thoughtful strategy, genuine relationships and measurable results are what matter most.
D G
What sets Prim + Co. apart, and what do you hope clients take away from working with your team?
I think our biggest differentiator is that we genuinely care. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all strategies or checking boxes. We become invested in our clients’ businesses because their success becomes our success. I’m also incredibly proud of the culture we’ve built. Early in my career, I worked for leaders who led through fear, and I promised myself I would build something different. I wanted
D G
Tell us more about your vision.
I wanted to create an environment where people feel supported and trusted, and where they’re encouraged to grow into leaders themselves. I think clients feel that when they work with us. My hope is that every client knows they have a true partner that’s invested in their business, celebrates their wins and is always looking for ways to help them grow.
D
When you’re not leading your businesses, how do you like to spend your time, and what does life outside of work look like for you and your family?
G
Life outside of work revolves around my family. My husband and I have three boys, so there’s never a shortage of sports, activities and adventures. We love spending time in the mountains, skiing in the winter, wakeboarding at Grand Lake in the summer and taking advantage of everything Colorado has to offer. As much as I love building businesses, those moments with my family are what keep everything in perspective. They remind me that success isn’t measured only by what’s happening at work but by the life you’re creating outside of it.
D
What role has your family played in your entrepreneurial journey, and how do they continue to inspire you today?
G
My family is the reason behind so many of the decisions I’ve made. I started Prim while raising young children, and in many ways, they’ve grown up alongside the business. Motherhood has taught me more about leadership than any business book ever could. It taught me patience, resilience and how important it is to recognize that everyone has a full life outside of work. My boys also keep me humble. They don’t care about media placements or business milestones. They just want me to show up. That’s a good reminder that while I love what I do, the people I come home to will always be my greatest accomplishment.
D
This year, you launched Frameflow with Kelly Stoker, a new platform connecting businesses with photographers, videographers and content creators. What inspired the idea, and what gap did you see in the market?
G
Frameflow was inspired directly by what we were seeing every day while running Prim + Co. As a public relations and social media agency, we manage social content for many clients, and over the past few years there’s been a clear shift: more and more businesses were asking us to connect them with photographers, videographers and content creators to support their social media efforts. As social media has become a core part of modern marketing, business owners and operators have realized that quality visual content matters.
started working on the business plan the very next day, and Frameflow was born directly from that real-world need we were seeing on both sides of the marketplace.
D G
Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future—for both your businesses and your family?
I’m excited about building businesses that continue creating opportunities for other people. At Prim, that means
helping more businesses grow while giving
D G
our team room to lead and build meaningful Tell us more about Frameflow.
careers. With Frameflow, it’s about creating more
opportunities
for
photographers,
videographers and content creators while making it easier for businesses and families
We’ve built a trusted network of vetted
to find exceptional local talent. Personally,
creators through the agency, we
I’m excited to watch my boys grow into
often act as the connector, matching
whoever they’re meant to become. Every
the right creative talent with the right brand.
stage of parenthood is different, and I’m
Clients
recommendations
learning to appreciate each one. The older I
because the creators are vetted, saving
get, the more I realize success is something
them hours of Googling, researching and
you build every day through your work, your
taking risks on unknown talent. At the same
family and the community around you.
trust
these
time, we were constantly hearing from photographers, videographers and content creators who were actively looking for new work and better ways to connect with businesses. There was clearly demand on both sides but no streamlined, trustworthy way to bring them together. That’s when it clicked. I realized there was an opportunity to build a platform that connects vetted creators with businesses and individuals who need high-quality content in a way that’s efficient, transparent and local. I
1576 N. Sherman St. Suite 210 Denver, CO 80203 hello@primtheagency.com primtheagency.com frameflow.co
H O
M E
“Mile High Style: 10 Ways to Fall-ify Your Home” Tom Ventker
Mile High Style: 5 Ways to Fall-ify Your Home Tom Ventker There’s nothing quite like fall in Denver. Golden aspens, crisp mountain air and cooler evenings create the perfect inspiration for refreshing your home. This season, forget the overload of pumpkins and predictable décor. Instead, think warm, layered, natural and effortlessly luxurious. Here are five ways to Fall-ify your home:
1. Bring Colorado's Fall Colors Inside Take inspiration straight from the Colorado landscape. Aspen gold, cognac, camel, terracotta, forest green and warm neutrals instantly give a room an autumn feel. You don’t need to redecorate completely. Add seasonal color through pillows, throws, artwork, pottery or one fabulous statement piece. Pair golden tones with ivory, rich woods and touches of black for a sophisticated Denver look.
2. Layer on t he Luxury Fall is all about texture. Swap lightweight summer fabrics for velvet, bouclé, wool, cashmere and chunky knits. Layer pillows on the sofa, drape a beautiful throw across your favorite chair and add a textured area rug. The goal is to make your home feel polished yet incredibly inviting—the kind of room that makes you want to curl up and stay awhile.
3. Create a Showstopping Entrance Give your front door its own fall moment. An oversized seasonal wreath, elegant lanterns, ornamental grasses and clusters of pumpkins can completely transform an entrance. For a more elevated look, skip the bright orange and mix white, sage, muted green and deep burgundy with natural greenery. Think Colorado harvest with a luxury twist.
4. Let Your Home Glow As Denver evenings become cooler and darker, lighting can completely change the mood of your home. Turn down the overhead lights and introduce table lamps, sconces, lanterns and candles at different heights throughout your rooms. Warm lighting instantly makes a space feel more intimate and sophisticated. And if you have a fireplace, make it the star. Add beautiful logs, oversized artwork, a few candles and comfortable seating nearby.
5. Bring Fall Entertaining Outdoors Denver’s patio season doesn’t have to disappear when summer ends. Transform your outdoor space with cozy throws, weather-resistant pillows, lanterns, an outdoor rug and seasonal planters. Add a fire pit or outdoor fireplace, and suddenly a chilly Colorado evening becomes the perfect setting for cocktails, wine and dinner with friends. Keep a basket of blankets nearby for guests—the ultimate Colorado fall touch. The most beautiful fall homes aren’t necessarily filled with seasonal decorations. They’re the ones that feel different when you walk through the door—warmer, richer and more inviting. Bring in the colors of the aspens, layer luxurious textures, light the candles and embrace those cool Colorado evenings. Because when fall arrives in Denver, staying home can feel like its own luxury escape.
Gwenivere Snyder Your Local Douglas County REALTOR® Living Here, Selling Here – Your Neighborhood Expert 98% List to Sale Ratio
303.718.1085 g@gwensnyderrealestate.com gwensnyderrealestate.com
“As the year comes to a close, I’m profoundly grateful for the trust and kindness shared throughout Douglas County. Wishing you a season filled with peace, grace, and the blessings of faith and community.”
A Seamless Move, Guided by Your Neighbor Planning to buy or sell? Now is the perfect time to start your journey! As a resident of Douglas County, I don’t just work here—I live here. My firsthand knowledge ensures you get more than just an agent—you get a neighbor who’s invested in your success. Securing the best deal is a given; making it seamless for you is what sets me apart. No question is too big or small—reach out anytime! Luxury Tailored Experience
Who You Work With Matters
• • • • •
• • • •
Colorado Native 23+ years of luxury real estate expertise Unmatched integrity and discretion Tailored concierge services Obsessive attention to detail
Philanthropy is Close to My Heart I Donate 10% of Each Deal to a Charity:
What Sets Me Apart • • •
Top 1.5% Nationwide | RealTrends Verified Top 100 Broker in Denver Metro | Mile High Leaders 5280 Top Producer | Double Black Diamond Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate Honoree
Trusted REALTOR® by top athletes and owners (has worked with over 55) Strong affiliates across the nation Master of social media and marketing proficiency
• • • • • •
Douglas County Community Foundation Cradle to Career Colorado Children’s Foundation Bruton’s Books TJ Ward Foundation A Precious Child
Featured Closings
3755 N Rampart Range Road Roxborough State Park | $7,000,000 Sold | Represented the Seller
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© 2025 Sotheby’s International Realty. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark and used with permission. Each Sotheby’s International Realty office is independently owned and operated, except those operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. The Sotheby’s International Realty network fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
One home. One process. One standard.
D U E T WO R K S W I T H C L I E N T S W H O E X P E C T M O R E F R O M T H E P R O C E S S . Interior design, architecture, and construction are aligned from the beginning, led by one team with one shared standard. The result is a cohesive, considered home, planned with clarity, executed with discipline, and built to endure. INTERIOR DESIGN
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PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE
F A S H
H I O N
Dior-Master Craftsman Richard Carroll “Tory Burch, Stellar Fashion Designer” Richard Carroll
“Anthing is possible with sunshine and a little pink.” Lilly Pulitzer
“Tory Burch, Stellar Fashion Designer” Richard Carroll Tory Burch’s life and career is a “feel good” narrative where success is possible regardless of never attending a fashion school, having zero experience as a fashion designer, and largely lacking fashion credentials. Yet Tory Burch rose above it all with a stunning swagger that cut through the fashion world with an explosion of popular designs. Her fascinating background is entirely unique to this collection of global fashion designers. Vivacious, attractive, articulate, and with a strong work ethic, Burch was born in 1967 in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, to wealthy, stylish, and artistic parents, both on the fringe of high society and also involved in the bohemian side of the art world. Family Influence and Eclectic Style Her father, Ira Earl “Bud” Robinson, a stockbroker and heir to a paper cup company, meticulous in his attire, noted for lining his dinner jackets with Hermes scarves, was remarkably popular and dated Grace Kelly and other actresses. He married Reva Schapira circa 1962, an inspiring actress who lived in Greenwich Village, worked as an assistant to a CBS casting director, and in her spare time dated Marlon Brando and Steve McQueen. A style icon, eternal optimist, with a smart and elegant wardrobe, an avid traveler and confirmed collector, including her assemblage of Moroccan tunics, which evolved into a remarkable Burch hallmark. Both parents, elegant, consummate hosts, and with a flair for fashion and travel, were a major influence on Burch’s fashion career. Tomboy, a Celebration of Individuality Tory Robinson was born, June 17, 1966, in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. Her childhood home, Spring Meadow Farm, near Valley Forge Historical National Park, was an enormous rural sprawl centered by a 15-bedroom, 250-year-old white Georgian farmhouse, home to Tory’s three brothers, Robert, James, and Leonard: 35 German Shepherds, six cats, and various other animals, including birds, turtles, and ducks. Life for Tory was outdoors under a blue sky with her brothers, climbing trees, riding horses, and playing tennis, and for her at the time, wearing a dress was not appropriate or appreciated. Her parents operated the Robinsway Kennels, where Tory would play with litters of puppies. A tomboy through and through, the first horse she ever rode was named Alastar, after whom she eventually named a bag collection after him, while during the summers in Maine, she competed in hunter-jumper events that inspired an equestrian collection. Tory was raised living the life of a farm girl. Feeding and caring for the deluge of animals, was a delight, as was working with her mother, who was an avid gardener attending to flowers and organic vegetables, which inspired Tory to create botanical designs using wild poppies, dahlias, and garden motifs. Her design aesthetic is deeply rooted in her rural and rugged upbringing at Spring Meadow Farm, her brand collections featuring eclectic textures with designs often mixing elements like wicker, floral, embroidery, and globally inspired tunics. However, diversely, her parents, Buddy and Reva, were hosting and entertaining a colorful group of artists, poets, writers, and musicians. Spring Meadow Farm was a friendly and welcoming open house, and at one point their dog handler moved in after a heart attack and stayed for six years. The large farmhouse, decorated with art and antiques from flea markets and auctions, gathered from world travel, along with her parents summers in Europe, was a splendid showcase of artistic splendor, as was her mother’s selection of fashion apparel. Tory Robinson attended the independent and prestigious, all-girl Agnes Irwin School in the suburbs of Philadelphia, founded in 1869, hosting 635 students, with classes averaging 15 students, and was captain of the tennis team, then earning a degree in art history at the University of Pennsylvania. She spent one summer, age 19, working 18-hour shifts cleaning fish in an Alaska cannery, and during her third university year, she had a life-changing semester on the SS Universe’s “Semester at Sea” program, experiencing Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, and for the first time being exposed to extreme poverty, which influenced her desire to give back. In 2009 she established The Tory Burch Foundation and mentorship, which has distributed more than $2 million in grants to female entrepreneurs and business owners and more that $100 million, low interest loans with bank partners.
Fashion Forward After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania in 1988, she immediately moved to New York City and found a job with Yugoslavian designer Zoran, located in Manhattan on Jay Street in Tribeca. A favorite of her mother’s, she worked for a short time as his assistant, delivering coffee on demand, working in the public relations department, and assisting visitors. With the world of fashion urging her forward to an unknown destination, she worked for Harper’s Bazaar as a sittings assistant and fashion editor, writing about fashion and designers, learning valuable industry experience, including how a fashion shoot works, and professional etiquette within the fashion world. She transitioned to Ralph Lauren into marketing, public relations, and serving as a copywriter. She was married briefly to William Macklowe, and in 1995 worked in public relations for Vera Wang, where she met Chris Burch, a venture capitalist fourteen years her senior, and they were married in 1996. Both previously married, she became Tory Burch and, with Chris, had twin sons, Henry and Nick, and later Sawyer, while Chris had three older daughters, Pookie, Louisa, and Issie. Her final role as a fashion employee was with the Spanish luxury home, Loewe, working in public relations and advertising. Design Time With six kids in tow and involved in being a busy stay-at-home mom, Tory found it difficult to work, but following her career thoughts, on her kitchen table she created a collection of fashion clippings from magazines and books, designed her own fashion attire, and presented her ideas to fashion designers who were fascinated. Much quoted, she said, “After 9/11 an inspirational commercial aired about ‘following your dreams’ and following her dreams, she decided to make a huge step forward and found a store on Elizabeth Street in Manhattan in the Nolita district. (North of Little Italy). She spent 16 years building her career working in high-end fashion houses, and absorbing the specifics of the fashion industry, and finally was moving into an entrepreneurial adventure that could easily be a bust, as has happened to so many others. Launch Time—February 2004—“TRB byTory Burch” Tory’s launch was uniquely ambitious for a new designer; she decorated the boutique to feel like a room in her own home, and unlike other designers who start with one product on launch day, she presented a complete lifestyle brand including ready-to-wear separates, the Tory Tunic, and a focus on affordable, luxury sportswear, like beaded cardigans, 50s/60s-inspired apparel, shoes, large logo handbags and totes, and a selection of jewelry. The launch was invested in by friends and family, including Chris Burch, and an assertion that should be entrenched in the history of fashion was Tory’s much-quoted warning, “Put in only what you can afford to lose.” Before the launch, which was uniquely ambitious for a new designer, Tory, following her dream, worked vigorously for months designing her collection, making changes and additions, while the Saturday night before the launch, she and her stepdaughters worked through the night, organizing the launch, with hardly enough time for Tory to go home for a quick shower before the opening. On a frigid and dry Sunday with temperatures staying below freezing for most of the day and the newly designed front doors not arriving in time due to shipping delays, the boutique opened at 10 a.m. with Tory and her team using space heaters inside the store to keep customers warm in the freezing winter air. By 6 p.m. closing time under a dark, overcast sky, the store had nearly sold out its entire stock, generating approximately $8,000 in sales. Guests ranged from friends throughout the New York fashion industry, celebrities, fashion columnists, and the elite high fashion social circles via her family and parents. Opra Winfrey With excellent marketing skills from her previous jobs, a little over a year from her launch, Tory sent Oprah Winfrey a tunic from her collection as a gift in March 2005, and in April was invited on the Oprah Winfrey Show, calling Burch “the next big thing in fashion.” The very next day, Tory’s website received eight million views, and her recognition propelled skyward. The fashion label “TRB by Tory Burch” later became Tory Burch, and in 2006, Burch launched the Reva ballerina sandals, dedicated to her mother, designed of high-quality material like patent leather or soft Napa leather, and a lightly cushioned leather footpad, made in Brazil. The Los Angeles Times reported that by June 2008, 300,000 pairs had been sold, with knockoffs found everywhere. Widely quoted, she said, “I wanted to give women wearable and stylish clothing that fell somewhere between the contemporary and designer markets.” Tory Burch’s two signature styles are the versatile tunic and the Reva Ballet Flat in various colors and with an oversized “double T” emblem, which is Burch’s logo. In 2006 Tory and Chris separated and filed for divorce, though she continues to use his last name. She said in a 2007 Vanity Fair interview, “At the end of the day, we weren’t going to be able to spend the rest of our lives together.”
Awards In 2011, she did her first runway fashion show and has continued to show each season at New York Fashion Week, while in 2021, the Tory Burch Company and the School of Fashion at Parsons School of Design announced a five-year multi-disciplinary educational partnership, and in 2022, the brand launched Essence of Dreams, a collection of five fragrances with Shiseido. Tory Burch has expanded globally with $1.8 billion in sales in 2024 and 400 stores worldwide, was named by Forbes “One of the most powerful women in the world,” and recognized for her advocacy for women’s rights and economic empowerment. Her long list of prestigious awards extends from Rising Star to Accessories Designer of the Year and Designer of the Year in 2023 by Harper’s Bazaar at their annual “Women of the Year Award,” ironically, a publication she worked for early in her career. In 2018 Burch married Pierre-Yves Roussel at a private estate in Antigua after a three-year engagement. Roussel, the CEO of LVMH Fashion Group, joined her company as CEO in 2019 and remains her CEO. Of Note Tory Burch is the only global fashion designer to be born and raised in Pennsylvania, and who claims her parents were a major fashion influence; the only female global fashion designer in the United States raised on a farm; one of the only United States female fashion designers with no formal fashion schooling; and the only United States female fashion designer to have a one-day launch of $8,000 in sales.
Richard Carroll is a nationally known travel writer honored with eight international writing awards. Richard has covered all seven continents, and with family heritage dating to early Colorado.
A R T S
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THE BEST THINGS TO DO
IN DENVER
The Ultimate Mile High City Bucket List Denver is having a moment. From legendary outdoor venues and immersive art to award-winning museums, incredible neighborhoods, professional sports and one of the hottest culinary scenes in the country, 2026 is an incredible year to experience the Mile High City. Here are 20 experiences that deserve a spot on your Denver bucket list. Visit Denver
MUST SEE
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PRICE GUIDE
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RED ROCKS AMPHITHEATER
GET LOST INSIDE MEOW WOLF
EXPLORE THE DENVER ART MUSEUM
CATCH A ROCKIES GAME AT COORS FIELD
Catch a concert beneath the stars, hike among dramatic sandstone formations, or simply explore one of Colorado’s most iconic landmarks.
Step into another universe at Convergence Station, a four-story immersive experience filled with interactive art, secret passageways and fantastical worlds.
ESCAPE TO THE DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS
Discover Indigenous, Western American and contemporary art alongside world-class exhibitions in one of Denver’s most distinctive architectural landmarks.
Experience baseball a mile above sea level while enjoying cold drinks, summer sunshine and spectacular Rocky Mountain views.
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2-6 HRS
MORRISON
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Wander through spectacular gardens, exotic plants and captivating art across acres of peaceful landscape in the heart of Denver.
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DENVER
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DENVER
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EXPERIENCE DENVER UNION STATION
EXPLORE THE MURALS OF RiNo
GO WILD AT THE DENVER ZOO
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DISCOVER COLORADO’S STORY
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A COLORADO ARTISTS’ GALLERY Downtown Englewood • 3485 S Broadway second floor, above Fellow Traveler & Mutiny Comics and Coffee
at EASEL in Englewood
NKollectiv.com • info@nkollectiv.com Open Tue-Sun. Special 2nd Sat hours. Appointments welcome.
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Q Meet Nicole Korbe
Nicole Korbe is an impressionistic and abstract western landscape artist inspired by the high deserts of New Mexico and the American West. She primarily works with oils combined with cold wax medium using an additive and subtractive layering process.She has spent two decades in the corporate world before transitioning to painting full-time. Nicole is the founder of NKollectiv Gallery and operator of EASEL, a hybrid studio, classroom, and event space located in Downtown Englewood, CO.
A with
Nicole Korbe, Artist Owner of NKollectiv & EASEL
D N
Your work has a distinctive style and emotional depth. How would you describe your artistic voice, and
what themes or messages consistently find their way into your creations? I
have
experienced
multiple
impactful losses throughout my life, including losing both of my parents
D N
before I was out of my teens. I became
Every artist has a unique story.
quite good at building up armoring layers
Can you share the journey that led
and making things seem fine. Just work
you to become an artist, and what
hard, play hard, and carry on. For whatever
continues to inspire your creativity today?
reason, when I started painting, it triggered
My childhood in the high desert of
an uncontrollable urge to peel back layers
northwest New Mexico shaped my
and explore myself in new ways. It felt quite
earliest sense of color and space.
healing in a way I did not understand. I see
I had a strong creative streak along with
a correlation to the process of building and
a feisty sense of exploration and wonder
removing layers of paint, and those that
for the natural world. I obtained a degree
we build within ourselves. When we allow
in Biology and embarked on a career
ourselves to recognize, explore, and perhaps
in environmental planning and project
share those layers with others, amazing
management. Fast forward a couple of
things can happen. Getting through the
decades and feeling a bit restless, I began
muck to reveal the beauty is often a painful
painting— starting what I thought would be
and quite intense experience. And so it is
a short, therapeutic creative diversion. I was
with painting too.
unexpectedly reconnected to the intuitive, imaginative part of myself that I had set aside. This sparked an undeniable shift with a whole new trajectory, and I found myself pulled into a journey into the art world. I am self-taught and my work is inspired by subconscious memory of the places, experiences, or feelings that have stayed with me. Often, these are landscapes from my earliest years, but sometimes places quite opposite, such as large, bustling cities, or what may seem mundane - such as textures on a building, a rock, or a tree trunk.
D
Walk us through your creative process. From the initial spark of inspiration to the finished piece,
what does a typical project look like for
N
Challenges are many, but the largest challenge also brings me joy, and that is the work that I have taken on
as an entrepreneur and owner of NKollectiv
you, and where do you find your greatest
Gallery and EASEL (Englewood Art Studios,
inspiration?
Events and Lessons). The amount of work
N
I have learned that my best work
and time involved in such an endeavor can
comes when I give up control. My
be daunting at times, and this has limited
process starts with applying layers
my time to create my own artwork. The
of oil paint that have been mixed with a
community of artists and the joy that comes
beeswax-based medium called cold wax.
from giving local artists a place to show
I may have a general sense of the type of
their work is worth it. We currently have 19
composition I want to achieve, and/or a
artist members who have work on display
specific color palette, but beyond that I
each month. A few times a year, we have
try to let intuitive process do its job. I layer
invitationals or open calls for outside artists
contrasting colors, applying the oil and
to show their work as well.
wax mixture with palette knives and other tools such as squeegees, and alternate the additive layers with a subtractive process of scraping back to reveal contrast and texture.
D
Looking
ahead,
projects,
what
exhibitions,
exciting or
collaborations are on the horizon?
What legacy do you hope your work
This process of adding and subtracting is
leaves, and what would you like people to
repeated until something is revealed
remember most about your art?
N
I am currently creating a collection of work for a solo show at the new Rolo Gallery in the Art District on Santa Fe
in Denver, opening on October 16, 2026. I also have several milestones approaching. The end of 2026 will mark 10 years since I left the corporate world and embarked on this risky, unexpected journey. It will also mark the 5th birthday of NKollectiv, and two
Be
years in our current Downtown Englewood
Every artist faces moments of
location. Legacy is a big word, but I hope
challenge
breakthrough.
that the biggest thing people take from
What has been the most defining
my story is to follow your dreams— take
moment of your career so far, and how
the path that allows you to bring forth and
has it influenced both your work and your
nurture your true self,
D
and
perspective as an artist?
Breakthrough
Hot & Cold
High Desert Green
FOOD&
&WINE
The Ritz Carlton, Denver A Cowboy Omakase Experience Trisha Ventker
“The exclusive Cowboy Omakase at the Ritz-Carlton, Denver is where luxury hospitality meets culinary theater”
“The Ritz-Carlton, Denver: A Cowboy Omakase Experience” Trisha Ventker The exclusive Cowboy Omakase at the Ritz-Carlton, Denver is where luxury hospitality meets culinary theater. I’ve been a resident of the vibrant city of Denver for 18 plus years, a city rich in culture, history, and heritage, and with the mad beauty of life where the rhythms of time and the earth, and an enormous surging power of culture are hauntingly beautiful. The changes in the city during the 18 years have been dramatic, predominantly in the culinary landscape, where talented chefs from throughout the world have landed in Denver, making the city an important culinary enchantment. Under a loaded sky, my husband Tom and I stepped through the doors of The Ritz-Carlton, Denver, with a dinner reservation, anticipating that the evening would be distinctive and atypical. The hotel opened on January 11, 2008, after an extensive multi-year renovation with 205 guest rooms, including 47 suites. After a warm greeting, we settled into a spacious, beautifully appointed guest room for our overnight stay, the velocity of the external world fading. The hotel’s approach to luxury is uniquely comforting, neither overdone nor flashy, but ingrained in hospitality, a concept where every interaction is intended, details are caringly considered, and guests are treated as though they are returning home. Later that evening the hotel’s concept of hospitality was even more evident. The Presidential Cowboy Omakase Tucked away inside the hotel’s elegant Elway’s restaurant is one of Denver’s exclusive dining experiences. The Presidential Cowboy Omakase. The experience is equal parts fine dining, storytelling, culinary education, and immersive theater, reimagining the Japanese tradition of omakase, meaning “I leave it up to you,” through the flavors, ingredients, and heritage of the American West. Omitting sushi, Head Chef Kaycee Jones creates an ever-evolving tasting menu inspired by Colorado’s farms, ranches, rivers, and mountains, enabling the day’s finest seasonal ingredients to dictate the evening’s dining journey. With just the two of us, the experience is intentionally intimate. Tom is seated at the Chef’s Table, known affectionately as Elway’s Table in a private John Elway room, next to the kitchen, and as the evening unfolded, it felt less like dining in a restaurant and more like being welcomed into someone’s private home. Throughout dinner, guests are encouraged to visit the kitchen, observe techniques, ask questions, and interact directly with the culinary team as every course comes to life, and it is so nicely immersive without being formal. The Culinary Team Astounding as the carefully planned cuisine proceeded, it was the culinary team who transformed the evening into something remarkable. Head Chef Kaycee Jones, led the culinary experience, Jones, an accomplished chef whose career spans nearly a decade cooking for Marriott International and several of its prestigious luxury brands, including the Gaylord Hotels. His culinary journey has taken him to Scottsdale, Vail, and Denver, refining a style that honors tradition while embracing innovation. His style is refreshingly ingenious, where exceptional local ingredients deserve thoughtful preparation rather than pointless complications, a theory that is evident in every course. Throughout the evening, working seamlessly beside him was Alex, whose warm, polished service embodied everything guests have come to expect from The Ritz-Carlton. His style was never intrusive yet always present; every detail seemed to happen effortlessly. Completing the dynamic trio was Shaun McCalister, whose role extended well beyond that of sommelier. McCalister was an incredible mix of wine aficionado, mixologist, and storyteller, and thoughtfully introduced each pairing, explaining not only why it complemented the course but also the history behind the wines and spirits, where each beverage became a chapter in the evening’s story. It became apparent to the two of us that Cowboy Omakase is far more than an exceptional dinner, but an example of what happens when culinary talent and first-rate hospitality intersect. A Refined Opening Before the first plate arrived, Shaun welcomed us with an aperitif that immediately challenged expectations. Rather than beginning with champagne, he introduced the Kickoff Spritz, a sophistcated non-alcoholic cocktail crafted with Lyre’s Rosso, Kickoff Spritz, a sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktail crafted with Lyre’s Rosso, premium French Bloom Sparkling Rose, club soda, and fresh orange. The creation, bright, citrusy, and significantly complex, demonstratedthatthoughtfulnon-alcoholicpairingsdeservethesamelevelofcraftsmanshipastraditional cocktails. It was refreshing, celebratory, and the perfect way to begin. Light bubbles danced across the palate while subtle botanical notes echoed the fresh fruit that would soon appear in the evening’s opening course. Our first dish was a delicate Colorado Peach Amuse Bouche with a drizzle of creamy Italian stracciatella layered with passion fruit and aged balsamic atop a crisp round cracker, finished with tiny pearls of fruit and a moist basil leaf. With sweet peaches, creamy cheese, bright acidity, and elegant simplicity, it wasn’t merely an appetizer, but an introduction of Chef Kaycee’s talent, allowing exceptional ingredients to speak for themselves. The dish flawlessly captured Colorado’s late-summer harvest.
The Story Unfolds One Course at a Time If the opening amuse-bouche served as the overture, the next several courses revealed the true character of Cowboy Omakase. Unlike many tasting menus, here courses arrive with little explanation, every plate at the Chef’s Table became a conversation. Chef Kaycee Jones moved effortlessly between the kitchen and the two of us, sharing the inspiration behind each creation, while encouraging questions and inviting us into the creative process. Observing him work was almost as entertaining as enjoying his creations. This is what separates Cowboy Omakase from a traditional fine dining encounter; it’s not simply about dining, but about participating. For the second course of Anasazi Bean Ragout, Shawn delivered a glass of Pride Mountain Vineyards, Merlot, Napa Valley, 2022, and rather than just naming the wine, he explained that it’s a marriage of rich, opulent fruit with the bold, structured structure of high-altitude mountain viticulture, full-bodied, savory, with undertones of blackberry, plum, and sage, and provided enough structure to complement the pancetta while allowing the earthy character of the beans to remain front and center. The ragout arrived in a rustic Blackstone bowl, an attentive presentation that paid homage to the rugged landscapes and cast-iron cooking traditions of the American West. It was a pairing built on restraint. rather than power, where one elevated the other. Red Trout Crudo The wine pairing was Domaine Hubert Brochard Terroir Selection Sauvignon Blanc, Sancerre, 2023, with a crisp minerality and citrus notes echoing the acidity of the leche de tigre while accenting the natural sweetness of the trout, shifting the dining gracefully from rustic comfort to remarkable freshness. Colorado’s mountain influences giving way to a stunningly prepared Red Trout Crudo, delicately dressed with crisp radish, cucumber, fresh lime, and a vibrant leche de tigre, where each taste was clean, bright, and refreshing. It was a classic pairing executed flawlessly, and proof that sometimes simplicity, when done exceptionally well, creates the greatest impact. The Red Trout, a native Cutthroat Trout, found along Colorado’s front range extending into the high elevation streams of Rocky Mountain National Park, is a delicious treat, and those found in the wild are challenging to catch. Striped Bass The seafood progression continued with one of the evening’s most elegant presentations. Impeccably prepared striped bass rested atop sweet roasted corn, poblano peppers, shaved fennel, and Fresno chile, finished with an indulgent Colorado honey beurre blanc. Chef Kaycee explained how Colorado honey had inspired the sauce, lending subtle sweetness without overpowering the delicate fish. The striped bass population is found in the entire western Colorado River basin chain, with record catches noted at McIntosh Lake in northeastern Boulder County. Shawn complemented the course with a 2024 Eroica Riesling from Washington’s Columbia Valley. Some diners instinctively associate Riesling with sweetness, but Shaun quickly dispelled that misconception. The wine’s vibrant acidity and restrained fruit profile stunningly balanced the honey beurre blanc while providing enough backbone to stand alongside the gentle heat of the Mexico poblano and Fresno peppers. Every ingredient on the plate seemed to amplify the next, and it was one of those rare courses where removing any single component would have diminished the whole. A Moment to Reset the Palate Among the seafood and the richer meat courses came an inventive intermezzo, reflecting Chef Kaycee’s playful creativity. Rather than serving a traditional fruit sorbet, he introduced an unexpected palate cleanser featuring beef tallow, mezcal, and fresh lime, smoky, savory, and bright, embodying the spirit of Cowboy Omakase, a Western interpretation of culinary tradition that continuously challenged expectations. We exchanged smiles as we tried to identify each layer of flavor, being unlike anything we had experienced before. Steak Tartare If there was one paring that perfectly demonstrated Shaun McCalister’s versatility as both sommelier and mixologist, it was the next course. In place of wine, Shaun served a handcrafted Rose & Thorn, a low-alcohol cocktail featuring Woody Creek Mary’s Gin, “Basalt Colorado,” prickly pear puree, fresh lemon, and rose water simple syrup. Elegant floral aromas greeted the nose before bright citrus and subtle sweetness unfolded across the palate. The cocktail accompanied a skillfully prepared steak tartare with shallot, cornichon, and pickled jalapeño, possessing remarkable richness, while the acidity of the pickled vegetables added lift. Shaun explained how the floral qualities of the cocktail softened the jalapeño’s gentle heat while the citrus refreshed the palate’s various tastes. It was a brilliant pairing that few would have expected. Observing Shaun discuss each ingredient with genuine enthusiasm revealed just how much thought had gone into each beverage selection. It had become abundantly clear that Cowboy Omakase is not simply about food and wine, but collaboration. Chef Kaycee Jones and Shaun McCalister worked in complete harmony, with every course and pour, and each explanation reinforcing each course, while Alex quietly ensured each glass remained polished, and the plates arrived at precisely the right moment, ensuring that we were completely at ease. This is where the distinction of a five-star hotel becomes unmistakable. Exceptional restaurants produce extraordinary dining, but only extraordinary hospitality can create an experience where guests feel genuinely cared for from the moment they arrive until long after the final course was served.
The Grand Finale By the time the evening reached its final chapters, it had become clear that Cowboy Omakase wasn’t merely progressing through courses, but telling a story. Each plate had built naturally upon the last, moving from the bright freshness of Colorado’s harvest to the rich flavors of the Rocky Mountains. The wine, cocktail, and conversation added another layer to the experience. It was dining at its most immersive. Lamb Osso Bucco The next course celebrated one of the oldest traditions in comfort food throughout the Western United States, and Colorado noted as the nation’s most concentrated hub for lamb feedlots, along with Wyoming, Idaho, and California, Chef Kaycee presented an exquisitely braised Lamb Osso Bucco, accompanied by creamy polenta, roasted green chile, and vibrant lemon gremolata. The lamb surrendered effortlessly to the fork, revealing hours of patient preparation. The richness of the meat was nicely balanced by the brightness of the gremolata, while the green chile offered a distinctly Colorado influence without overpowering the dish. To accompany the course, Shaun poured a 2022 Familia Torres Celeste Crianza from Spain’s Ribera del Duero, a famed Spanish wine region in a north central plateau near Leon and Castile. He explained how the wine’s earthy character, gentle spice, and structured tannins mirrored the slow-braised lamb while complementing the subtle heat of the green chile. Rather than competing with the food, the pairing allowed every taste to become more expressive than the last. Watching Chef Kaycee and Shaun present each course together was fascinating. One spoke through ingredients, while the other translated the flavors through wine. It was a collaboration built on trust, precision, and a shared commitment to creating unforgettable moments. Where the Mountains Meet the Sea Elk Rack & Lobster Tail If there was one course that perfectly captured the spirit of Cowboy Omakase, this was it. A superbly roasted Colorado Elk Rack arrived alongside an impeccably prepared lobster tail, crowned with silky celery root puree with brown butter espuma and bright pickled huckleberries. It was a Colorado and coastal delight, both sharing the same plate. Next in line was one of the evening’s most memorable presentations. Shaun introduced the Rocky Mountain Pine Old Fashioned, crafted with The Ritz-Carlton Denver’s Reserve Blend Breckenridge Bourbon, Demerara, rosemary, Genepy, and bitters. Just before serving the cocktail, it was dramatically kissed with fragrant smoke, filling the room with aromas reminiscent of a Colorado pine forest after a light summer rain. The rosemary and smoke echoed the richness of the elk, while the bourbon’s subtle sweetness found harmony with the tart huckleberries. But an unexpected detail elevated the course even further, a luxurious blue cheese incorporated into the dish, from southern Oregon’s Rogue Creamery, noted as America’s oldest blue cheese producer and internationally admired for their various cheese collections. Their famous Rogue River Blue matures naturally inside caves, developing remarkable complexity and earning recognition as one of the world’s finest cheeses, winning the World Champion title at the World Cheese Awards. The bold yet balanced blue cheese added another dimension to the elk without overwhelming it, proving that exceptional ingredients require only attentive restraint, where every element on the plate had purpose and every flavor had a story. The Final Course Tomahawk Ribeye Just when it seemed impossible to be further impressed, the evening reached its spectacular finale with an Orin Swift “Eight Years in the Desert,” California, 2023, and an expertly prepared Tomahawk Ribeye complemented by smoky blue cheese fondue and earthy hen-of-the-woods mushrooms. Skillfully charred on the outside and incredibly tender, it represented everything a steak should be. The bold California red blend, whose jammy fruit, pepper spice, and concentrated structure stood confidently beside the richness of the beef, had smoky undertones seamlessly complementing the blue cheese while enhancing the ribeye’s splendid caramelized crust. It was a pairing made not simply to accompany the steak, but to celebrate it. Pastry Chef Stella’s Desserts A memorable dinner should never end abruptly, and thankfully, Pastry Chef Stella ensured the evening concluded with every bit as much skill as it began. Her dessert, Peach, Four Ways, illustrated Colorado’s beloved summer fruit through four different expressions: Peach & Vanilla Pavlova; Peach Layer Cake; Mini Peach Cobbler Tart; and Peach & Vanilla Macaron, with each dessert displaying a different texture and technique while remaining unmistakably connected through one succulent ingredient. Looking at my notes, the pavlova offered delicate crispness; the cake brought nostalgic comfort; the cobbler paid homage to traditional Western baking, and the macaron delivered the perfect stylish finish. Our opening dish, the amuse-bouche dessert, celebrated Colorado, as well as the Peach Four Ways, and not through extravagance, but with exceptional ingredients prepared with remarkable care.
The Ritz-Carlton, Denver, has unveiled 9 new signature experiences designed to help guests discover the best of Colorado through immersive culinary, wellness, cultural, and outdoor offerings. From a bespoke omakase dinner with the hotel’s Executive Chef to a custom Western hat-making experience and yoga at Red Rocks, these bookable experiences offer guests unique ways to connect with Denver while enjoying the elevated service and personalization synonymous with The Ritz-Carlton brand. Presidential Cowboy Omakase: An intimate, chef-led dining experience featuring a personalized multi-course menu inspired by Colorado’s seasonal bounty, paired with wine, storytelling, and exclusive take-home keepsakes including a branded apron and recipe booklet. Mile High Old Fashioned: A Colorado whiskey experience complete with a guided Breckenridge Distillery tasting, hands-on cocktail workshop and small bite pairing, plus a personalized bottle to take home. Bath Butler Ritual: A luxurious in-room wellness experience led by a dedicated Bath Butler where guests can create custom bath blends from a selection of mineral salts, botanicals, and essential oils, complete with a candlelit setting and choice of herbal tea, infused water, or champagne. The Vintage Label: Build Your Own Luxury Western Hat – A private custom hat-making experience with silky skinny scarf, one feather, pin, and ribbon that celebrates Colorado style and craftsmanship, including a welcome beverage, and additional accessories available for purchase in store. Harmony Renewal Ritual: A restorative wellness journey combining a therapeutic sound bath, breathwork, and a rejuvenating facial, plus access to spa amenities. Yoga on the Rocks: A guided hiking and yoga experience at the iconic Red Rocks, blending movement, mindfulness, and Colorado’s stunning natural landscape. Nocturne Jazz Club: Ellington Experience: A VIP evening featuring a five-course dinner, wine pairings, premium seating, and an exclusive meet and greet with the chef, sommelier, and jazz performers. No. 7 Club! Named for John Elway’s former jersey number, this speakeasy-style venue is tucked behind the scenes in the former Elway’s entrance hall and designed to deliver an intimate, elevated experience for hotel guests and visitors alike, featuring a cozy atmosphere, curated small bites, and handcrafted cocktails. Padel Haus Denver brings world-class padel to the Mile High City. With five indoor courts, 25-foot ceilings, premium locker rooms, a state-of-the-art gym, and co-working spaces, it’s more than a club— it’s a community. Recharge at Juice Haus and play at your highest level in Denver’s premier padel destination.
Hospitality Beyond the Plate Dinner came to a close, and my thoughts were swarming. The dinner was astonishing, beverages exceptional, but what truly distinguished Cowboy Omakase was something far more difficult to teach, and that is hospitality. Some can create an attractive dining room, and purchase notable ingredients, but in my travels, few can create an atmosphere where guests genuinely feel welcomed, engaged, and valued. Throughout the evening, Chef Kaycee Jones, Shaun McCalister, Alex, and the entire Ritz-Carlton team demonstrated what hospitality looks like when practiced at the highest level, where interaction felt sincere, every detail seemed effortless, and guests felt less like a customer and more like a welcomed friend. This is the hallmark of a five-star hotel. Luxury isn’t measured solely by thread counts, crystal stemware, or rare ingredients, but by how it makes you feel. An Evening Worth Extending After an evening filled with remarkable cuisine, exceptional wines, inspired cocktails, and meaningful conversations, returning to the comfort of the guest room felt like the ideal conclusion. The overnight stay transformed an incredible dinner into a complete luxury escape. Morning arrived with the sun shining brightly, and a quiet feeling that welcomed us the evening before, offering time to reflect on an experience unlike any other in Denver. Final Thoughts The Presidential Cowboy Omakase at The Ritz-Carlton, Denver, is one of the city’s finest tasting menus, and also a nicely curated luxury experience, where Japanese culinary philosophy meets Colorado heritage, and local ingredients become works of art, and every wine, cocktail, and course is part of a larger story. Most importantly, I’ve found that fine dining is never just about what’s on the plate; it’s about the people who created the experience. Chef Kaycee Jones’ inspired cuisine, Shaun McCalister’s masterful pairings and storytelling, Alex’s gracious service, Pastry Chef Stella’s elegant finale, and the unwavering commitment to excellence shown by The Ritz-Carlton team transformed an evening into a memory that will linger long after the last bite. In a city known for exceptional dining, Cowboy Omakase stands in a category all its own, offering an intimate culinary journey, a masterclass in hospitality, and one of Denver’s most exclusive dining experiences: an evening of dining that deserves to be savored, celebrated, and whenever possible, enjoyed with an overnight at one of Colorado’s finest luxury hotels.
Ritz-Carlton Denver Elway’s 1881 Curtis Street, Denver, Colorado, USA, 80202 303.312-3800 ritz-carlton.com
Timeless cocktails & food full service now available in the Great Hall at Denver Union Station
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Planning a special occasion? Impress your guests with a custom gourmet menu designed just for you. We handle everything—from shopping and cooking to full cleanup—so you can relax and enjoy. Simple per-person pricing makes everything a breeze.
Denver’s Personal Chef Richard Hammons With over 20 years of restaurant experience, including six with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. Chef Rich has been running Five Star To You for the last decade creating personalized dining experiences for intimate gatherings, appetizer events, weddings or corporte events that go far beyond the ordinary.
PERSONAL CHEF
Chef Rich
fivestartoyou.com | 480-773-0321 Richard@FiveStarToYou.com
Esquites Cornbread served at Riot BBQ
submitted by Chef Manny Barella
Ingredients: Dry 1 cup cornmeal 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup sugar 1 tbsp baking powder 1 tsp kosher salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 1 tsp chili powder Wet 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted 2 eggs 1 cup Mexican crema (or sub sour cream) 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned & drained) 1 jalapeño, finely diced 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Instructions: 1. Preheat oven Set to 375°F. Grease a baking dish or cast iron skillet. 2. Mix dry ingredients In a large bowl, whisk: cornmeal, flour sugar, baking powder, salt, pepper, chili powder 3. Mix wet ingredients In another bowl, whisk: melted butter, eggs, crema (or sour cream) 4. Combine Pour wet ingredients into dry and mix until just combined (don’t overmix) Fold in add-ins Gently mix in: corn, jalapeño, cheddar cheese 5. Transfer to pan Spread batter evenly into your prepared dish. 6. Bake Bake for 25–35 minutes, until: golden on top, a toothpick comes out clean Cool slightly Let sit for ~10 minutes before slicing.
Q About Chef Richard Hammons, owner of Five Star To You
Richard Hammons is a classically trained chef whose culinary career spans more than two decades, beginning in restaurant kitchens at age 14. A graduate of The Art Institute of Phoenix with Highest Honors, Best Culinarian, and Best Portfolio, he refined his craft at renowned luxury properties including Four Seasons Hotels and Amangani, while developing expertise in sushi, global cuisine, and restaurant leadership. Throughout his career, he has successfully opened restaurants, created innovative menus, and led high-performing culinary teams. In 2017, he founded Five Star To You, bringing the elevated standards of five-star hotels and fine dining directly to private homes and special events, where his passion for exceptional food and memorable guest experiences continues to define his work. Five Star To You has been growing rapidly and has become one of the Premier Personal Chef Businesses in Colorado.
A with
Chef Richard Hammons
chef at Amangani Hotel, and then executive chef at Gather restaurant in Jackson. All of these experiences allowed me to learn and grow, enabling me to cook many varieties of food. This greatly shaped my company’s direction, allowing us to cater private events of all kinds.
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Every great chef has a story. What inspired your culinary journey, and what pivotal moments shaped the way you cook today? I grew up with a family who loved food and my father always watched the great classic cooking shows of the past like Yan Can Cook, Jacques Pepin, and Julia Child. So when I was 14 and needed a job, I started working in a Chinese restaurant owned by a friend’s family in Florida and began to learn a bit about how restaurants work. After working as a server, running coffee shops, and trying several other career paths, I enrolled at The Art Institute of Phoenix in the early 2000’s. 8 months into school I started working at the “Five Star and Five Diamond” Four Seasons Hotel in Scottsdale under Chef Simon Purvis. This job was a springboard for me to advance as a cook because of the high level of intensity and the ability to work in multiple stations and restaurants at the property. After two years in Arizona, I transferred to the property in Jackson Hole, Wyoming where I continued to expand my knowledge as a cook and was lucky to pick up sushi. After 3 years there, I transferred to the Denver property to open the hotel as their sushi chef. These 6 years in hotels allowed me to hit the ground running in independent restaurants where I worked my way up to executive chef over the following 6 years. My experience continued in high-end sushi bars and restaurants, working for a smokehouse, and catering companies, to being the executive sous
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Your food has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. How does Colorado’s culture, landscape, and local ingredients influence your menu and culinary creativity? Colorado’s seasonal nature greatly drives our menus. I grow a large garden in the summer to provide several products including the herbs we use. Plus, we source many great local ingredients from places like Frontline Farms, Heinie’s market, Cannolo Farms, and the local farmers markets. We serve produce when it is in season so spring and summer are always an exciting time. Winter presents a challenge, so we tend to lean more into root vegetables and ingredients that store well. We also have some amazing purveyors who help us source regional meat and game, as well as, wonderful seafood suppliers who bring us in season seafood from the US.
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If you could create the perfect threecourse meal that represents your personal style as a chef, what would be on the menu, and why do those dishes define you? This is a hard question to answer because I cook so many various cuisine styles. Omakase sushi events are one of my favorite things to do but I love making handmade pasta and delving into classic French techniques. Showing off the bounty of Colorado in New American cuisine and sharing my many travels through Mexico always excites me. I feel defined as a chef by my varied cooking style and I couldn’t be happier that all of my experience has led me to where I am now.
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The culinary world is constantly evolving. What food trends excite you, which ones do you think are overrated, and where do you see the future of fine dining heading? Food always excites me because its constant evolution allows me to continue learning. The biggest thing that excites me these days and where I see the future of fine dining heading is the continued focus on sustainability. We need to keep pushing to be better stewards of our land and the sea. Finding ways to stop overfishing certain species by promoting more sustainable options is very exciting to me. Regenerative agriculture is also exciting, as it ensures we are not stripping our lands of nutrients and that we are creating better biodiversity. The need for these things in the future is paramount so I enjoy learning more and helping in the best way I can. A food trend that really drives me crazy is “fancy toast”. As much as I absolutely love a good sandwich, I think the avocado or whatever toast of the moment is stupid and I can’t stand it.
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Beyond the food itself, what do you hope guests remember long after they’ve left an event put on by you, and what kind of experience are you striving to create every night? I often say “we” a lot because my business involves more than just me. My chef partner Marc Levine, also helps run the business; he is a creative force who pushes me forward and assists with my day-to-day operations in many ways. Plus a host of other chefs, bartenders, and servers that help us create amazing moments for our guests. I want all of us to have fun while we work. To be professional yet relaxed when interacting with our guests. I often say, “People go to a restaurant to complain, they call us to have a good time”. We want people to know that we put love into everything we do, and that we work many more hours than they will ever notice to ensure every event goes off without a hitch. We create memories, whether it is a wedding, a birthday, a corporate event, or a
loving anniversary. People are always blown away by our food and service, oftentimes exceeding expectations beyond what they hoped for. This is what we do, beccause we love food and giving great hospitality. I couldn’t be happier that we just passed 10 years in business.
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Carlsbad, a Hallmark Movie Destination Trisha Ventker
Carlsbad, a Hallmark Movie Destination Trisha Ventker
Californian’s coastal gem of well-ness, dining, and endless discovery. Flying non-stop from Denver into Carlsbad’s stress-free McClellanPalomar airport, the city’s dramatic seven mile long protected beach was a stunning visual, the Pacific Ocean in great repose, sending tumbling waves ashore in a timeless rhythm, and a glorious setting for a destination. I’m not here for the world-renowned seasonal burst of color every spring, found at Carlsbad Ranch’s, flower fields, home to 55 acres of blooming giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers, drawing visitors from throughout the world, and an event that defines the city’s bright, scenic aesthetic. Though I was aware that Carlsbad is one of California’s “Flower Capitals.” with reservations required months in advance of the six to eight weeks of blooming, from early March to early May at the working ranch. However, with numerous readers’ requests, I’m here to cover the recently reimagined Hotel Solea, Autograph Collection, formerly a Sheraton, now a Marriott Bonvoy, property with 201 guestrooms and suites, and to explore the essences of the charming Carlsbad village. Carlsbad is located in northern San Diego County, 35 miles north of downtown San Diego, with an official nickname, “Village by the Sea,” and I quickly discovered a relaxed, upscale, Southern California, beach town vibe, and a vibrant outdoor lifestyle on both land and sea. Carlsbad has quietly become one of Southern California’s most desirable coastal escapes, where luxury doesn’t shout for attention; instead, it reveals itself in thoughtful hospitality, with chef-driven cuisine, restorative wellness experiences, walkable neighborhoods, and a community that welcomes first-time visitors as though they’ve been visiting for years. My Carlsbad assignment began when I collected my luggage and walked a few steps outside the airport, where Roger, my childhood friend of forty-six years, who lives in Palm Springs and drove here to greet me with an enthusiastic hug and big smile, and to share the destination, along with his extremely excited traveling companion, Elton John, a tiny, two-year-old, rescue Chihuahua. Though he weighed only a few pounds, Elton John possesses the confidence of a dog ten times his size. Before the weekend was over, he would charm restaurant staff, fellow diners, shop owners, and countless dog lovers, becoming an unexpected but delightful thread woven throughout our time at the newly reimagined Hotel Solea. Autograph Collection. The Andalusian Spanish word solea, meaning solitude, tranquility, and a relaxing getaway, is entirely appropriate. Hotel Solea Salutation From the moment we arrived, it was evident that every detail had been carefully considered. I favor small to mid-sized properties, that offer exceptional service and an unhurried ambience, and the Hotel Solea falls exactly into that category with botanical-inspired interiors creating a fresh, inviting atmosphere, and a seamless indoor-outdoor design encouraging guests to embrace the region’s enviable climate. Bright sunlight flowed through expansive windows, contemporary furnishings reflected the colors of the surrounding coastline, and comfortable gathering places invited guests to slow down and settle into a vacation mode. After dropping off our luggage, we realized that we hadn’t had a bite to eat since a hurried breakfast.
Carlsbad, a Hallmark Movie Destination Restaurant Verise Verise, the hotel’s signature restaurant with an inviting outdoor patio, was located just beyond the lobby. Since Elton John was traveling with us, the outdoor seating was ideal, allowing him to settle comfortably beneath the table while enjoying the crisp coastal breeze. Lunch set the tone for the exceptional culinary experiences that would define the weekend, led by Resort Executive Chef, Jason Luke, working closely with Italian-born Riccardo Bilotta. Chef Luke has a strong culinary California background, his cooking style being local-farm-to-Pacific-ocean, having spent his entire career in Southern California, and creating with strict execution. Chef Luke was first inspired by his grandfather, at age 12, watching him prepare a massive Thanksgiving feast, observing the care and technique involved, and he was hooked for a lifetime of kitchen creativity. For me, as a working journalist, I’m always eager to encounter the innovative work of first-rate chefs, and cuisine is always a high priority for travel. I’ve often experienced that an insignificant chef can distress a destination. First up for me was the Pane Casereccio con Prosciutto, arriving with warm wood-fired focaccia topped with fragrant rosemary, olio nuovo, fennel polien, Calabrian chili, and delicate slices of Prosciutto di Parma. The combination was both rustic and refined, allowing each carefully selected ingredient to shine while capturing the spirit of modern Italian cuisine. Roger’s selection was the Panino de Pollo, designed with rosemary-marinated chicken layered with provolone, baby arugula, and sun-dried tomato pesto on freshly baked ciabatta. Smiling, Roger remarked, ”It was hearty without feeling heavy and highlighted the same attention to the quality ingredients.” This would become a recurring theme throughout our dining at the hotel. Lingering over lunch, the sky festooned and sculpted with clouds, leaving a soft tinted sunlight on the ocean, while I observed guests drifting between the pool, gardens, and restaurant patio, and it became clear that Hotel Solea wasn’t simply a place to spend the night;it was thoughtfully designed as a destination, where the pace naturally slows and every space invites conversation, relaxation, and connections. Carlsbad Village The afternoon had slipped away, and the night was upon us, as we walked to Carlsbad Village, one square mile in size with some 5,000 plus residents, and packed with over 80 restaurants, bars, and cafes, from casual taco shops and craft breweries to upscale restaurants, local boutiques, charming storefronts, and lively sidewalks, creating one of Southern California’s most walkable, open-air destination districts. On Wednesday afternoons the village shuts down State Street to host a lively market with local food vendors serving freshly cooked global dishes, and where an active gathering is in place. Restaurant Wildland – Contemporary Coastal Chic Our dinner destination was Wildland, opened December 2024, and created by restaurateur John Resnick alongside Michelin-starred Chef Eric Bost, Wildland has quickly established itself as one of Carlsbad’s culinary standouts. The restaurant is a unique, all-day gathering place that seamlessly combines a popular bakery, restaurant, and bar under one dazzling roof. An expansive indoor-outdoor design reflects the relaxed coastal lifestyle, while the menu celebrates wood-fired Mediterranean-inspired cuisine built around cuisine moved by the rhythm of the seasons, exceptional West Coast ingredients, and house-made breads. Wildland is one of Southern California’s exciting culinary families. Its sister restaurants include the Michelin-recommended Campfire, celebrated for its live-fire cooking; the Michelin-starred French restaurant Jeune et Jolie, and Lilo, an intimate chef’s tasting experience that has quickly become one of the region’s most sought after reservations. Dining outdoors allowed Elton John to join us once again, and quickly fellow diners and dog lovers stopped by to admire our tiny traveling companion. Throughout the evening, friendly conversations flowed effortlessly between tables, perfectly capturing the welcoming spirit that defines Carlsbad Village. Roger paired dinner with a glass of Lioco Pinot Noir, Mendocino County, while I opted for Wildland’s bracing Strawberry Saffron Lemonade, created as a bright, vibrant cocktail of flavors that flawlessly complemented the warm California evening. First arriving at table was warm, pungent, sourdough country bread served with sea salt and butter, followed by one of Wildland’s signature pizzas’, the Bianca Piccante, layered with Calabrian cream, Gioia mozzarella, fennel sausage, roasted garlic, and a drizzle of hot honey that delivered the ideal balance of sweetness and spice.
A nicely prepared wood-fired cabbage, finished with Parmesan, crispy shallots, and a tasty Caesar dressing, demonstrated how even the modest of vegetables can become something memorable in the hands of talented chefs. The evening’s centerpiece, a heritage pork chop accompanied by Frog Hollow apricots, displayed Wildland’s commitment to seasonal ingredients and thoughtful execution. Our first evening closing upon us, Roger, Elton John, and I made our way back to Hotel Solea beneath the soft glow of village lights, a gust of wind ruffling the leaves dancing on the trees, the night sounds softly echoing. It was only a matter of hours since landing in Carlsbad, yet the city was revealing what it so distinctive, such as remarkable cuisine, genuine hospitality, and a relaxed coastal rhythm that invites visitors to slow down and enjoy the moment. Discovering the Soul of Carlsbad The following morning began exactly as every vacation should, with sunshine, fresh coastal air, and an unhurried breakfast. I am scheduled to meet Maria Reily, public relations & communications manager, for Visit Carlsbad, an experience that would deepen my appreciation for this remarkable seaside destination even further. Overlooking the inviting hotel’s pool deck, I met Maria, relishing a light breakfast, as our conversation quickly moved beyond hotels and attractions, with her speaking passionately about the community, describing how Carlsbad has evolved into one of Southern California’s premier coastal destinations while committed to preserving the authentic character that has made it so beloved by residents and frequent visitors. She explained that Carlsbad offers luxury hotels, outdoor fun, award winning restaurants, wellness, arts and culture, and attractive beaches, all of which contribute to Carlsbad’s appeal, but what truly sets the city apart is its commitment to sustainable tourism, encouraging guests to connect with local businesses, experience the destination at a slower pace, and leave with meaningful memories rather than simply checking attractions off a list. Maria smiled and said something that remained with me for the remainder of the assignment. She said, “Carlsbad is like a destination you’d see in a Hallmark movie.” Reflecting on everything Roger, Elton John, and I had experienced during our first hours, I wholeheartedly agree. There is an unmistakable warmth here, the kind that can’t be manufactured, and is created by welcoming residents, independent businesses, lovely public spaces, and a community that genuinely enjoys sharing its hometown with visitors. If Carlsbad has a heartbeat, wellness is one of its defining rhythms Inspired by Maria’s conversation, I experienced a bracing morning devoted to wellness, and all is good, walking a short distance to the Ocean Pearl Spa at the Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa. Carlsbad being one of “California’s Flower Capitals,” Carlsbad must also be “California’s Historic Spa Capital.” Wellness in Carlsbad dates to the 1880s, when it was a settlement known as Frazier’s Station, a simple railroad whistle stop, and wellness was discovered when Captain John Frazier, on his homestead farm, dug more than 400 feet deep to a series of artesian wells to supply fresh water for the railroad. He noticed that drinking the rich mineral water significantly relieved his chronic stomach ailments and rheumatism.
Carlsbad, a Hallmark Movie Destination -continuedHe sent samples to testing laboratories in New York City and Chicago, and they discovered Frazier’s vigorous and healthy mineral water shared an identical chemical composition as the famed, “Well Number Nine” at the renowned European spa town of Karlsbad Bohemia, now the Czech Republic. Frazier immediately began bottling and selling the water as “Carlsbad Mineral Water,’ which transformed the train stop into a booming wellness destination, and the settlement was officially named, Carlsbad in 1883. Thoughts of Carlsbad’s wellness history, and the serene Ocean Pearl Spa, immediately enveloped me in a sense of calm, with gentle music, tranquil surroundings, and attentive service creating an environment where the outside world simply vanished. Massage therapist Andrea, customized every aspect of the treatment with remarkable care, blending therapeutic techniques with luxurious relaxation.Every movement seemed designed to melt away lingering tension, leaving me refreshed and restored. It was far more than an excellent massage, and a reminder that sometimes the greatest luxury isn’t found in extravagance but in giving yourself permission to slow down. Shopping California Style Wonderfully renewed, Roger and I drove to the Forum Carlsbad, located in the southeast of the city, and al fresco, the Forum feels like an extension of Carlsbad’s coastal lifestyle. Palm-lined walkways, thoughtfully landscaped courtyards, and an inviting collection of boutiques encourage visitors to linger rather than rush. Browsing the shops, we popped into the Parakeet Café for lunch, and greeted with friendly smiles from Aidden and Victoria, we immediately felt at home. Parakeet embraces California’s fresh, wholesome approach to dining without ever sacrificing flavor. Bright interiors, vibrant dishes, and an upbeat atmosphere perfectly reflected the energy of the surrounding neighborhood, along with my fresh tuna bowl, whose colorful ingredients and balanced flavors made each bite feel as nourishing as it was delicious. Roger opted for a perfectly prepared burger that delivered classic comfort furthered by quality ingredients and precise preparation. Parakeet Café is one of those places where often it’s the effortless dining that becomes the most memorable, because they’re enjoyed in exactly the right place at precisely the right time. Finding Complete Stillness at Happy Blue Marble One of the Carlsbad experiences I was eager to cover was the concept and presentation of Happy Blue Marble, where all is good. Steps from the beach, owners Elizabeth and Mark have created Carlsbad’s first dedicated Sound Bath & Moon Ceremony Studio, with candlelit sound baths, Reiki, guided meditation, breathwork, moon ceremonies, and thoughtfully curated community gatherings designed to nurture guests. The studio has a peaceful ambience, soft lighting, and inviting clients to leave the details of daily life, and the outside world and focus on positive thoughts, as crystal singing bowls fill the room with gentle vibrations, the fast pace of life vanishing and blending into moments of complete tranquility as stress quietly dissolves beneath waves of sound. The Happy Blue Marble encounter was new for me, not only relaxing but transformative, and I felt lighter and with less tension than I had in months, and so taken by the experience I walked out barefoot and left my tote bag behind! Elizabeth came to my rescue, giving everyone a good laugh, and providing the perfect reminder of just how relaxed I was.
An Evening at Verise The afternoon sent an, “All’s Good” farewell as the moon slipped behind some blustering clouds, and it was time for what would become one of the culinary highlights of the visit. Tucked within Hotel Solea, Verise, reflects the property’s beautifully sophisticated yet approachable personality. Executive Chef Riccardo Bilotta brings an extraordinary culinary resume to Carlsbad, having refined his craft in Michelin-starred restaurants throughout both Italy and Spain before bringing his passion for authentic Italian cuisine to Southern California. The culinary team, again includes Chef Kevin Martinez, celebrating classic Italian traditions while embracing California’s remarkable seasonal ingredients. Server, Prentiss, guided us through the evening with warmth, professionalism, and thoughtful recommendations that made a memorable dinner feel even more special. Roger opened the dining encounter with a glass of Italian Vietti Barbera ’d’Asti, while I chose a refreshing Limoncello Spritz; the limoncello, prosecco, and sparkling seltzer creating a bright, citrus-forward cocktail worthy of a Southern California evening. First arriving was a delightful warm oven-roasted herb focaccia, complemented by a lush tomato compound butter, premium olive oil, and Saba. It was a deceptively modest opening that featured the kitchen’s diligence to details. Roger took pleasure in an Insalata al Cesare, created with Parmigiano Reggiano and crisp focaccia crostini, Roger commenting that it’s a salad he would order again. I was intrigued with the Crudo di Mare, balanced with pristine Hamachi, olio nuovo, tangerine agrodolce, watermelon radish, and just enough Fresno chili to gently awaken the palate without overwhelming the delicate fish. Our entries were also five-star, with Roger pleased with the comforting Parmigiana di Melanzane, where traditional layers of eggplant, tomato, mozzarella, and basil demonstrated why timeless recipes never go out of style. While, my Bucatini Amatriciana delivered rich, satisfying flavors with guanciale, onion, Verise Pomodoro, and Fresno chili, creating a pasta course that balanced rustic Italian tradition with refined execution. Our Italian dinner was wonderfully inspired; the final indulgence, was a shared serving of creamy pistachio gelato, and impossible to resist, the closure for a dinner that beautifully illustrated why Hotel Solea has become one of Carlsbad’s exciting culinary destinations Strolling back to our various accommodations, stars blazing brightly, the sweetness of flowers tickling the senses through the softly illuminated hotel grounds, it struck me that Maria had been right: Carlsbad isn’t defined by one memorable restaurant, one luxurious hotel, or one wellness experience, but the effortless way all of these experiences blend that makes the coastal community so unforgettable. The Heart of Carlsbad and the Foundation of the City’s Wellness When Saturday morning rolled around, the two of us had settled into Carlsbad’s easygoing rhythm. Though I’m working to present a detailed overview for readers, there was no urgency to rush from one attraction to the other. Instead, the city seemed to encourage us to slow down, wander, and appreciate the simple pleasures that make a destination memorable. On our second visit to Carlsbad Village, we stopped at the historic Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa set right in the heart of the village, and directly on the site where Captain John Frazer first discovered the artesian mineral well in 1882, and featuring a Bavarian style castle serving as an architectural tribute to the German and Bohemian spa town that gave Carlsbad it’s name. The Carlsbad Retail Alkaline Water Station draws water from more than 1,500 feet deep and completely separate of the city’s water lines, and where anyone can visit the outdoor self-serve vending kiosks to fill up water bottles, directly from the source, with the historic “Living Water,” $1.40 a gallon.
Carlsbad, a Hallmark Movie Destination The Naked Cafe With wellness water in mind, we headed for the Naked Café, and as a native New Yorker now calling Denver home, I couldn’t help but smile when I saw the name. For just a moment, I half expected the famous Naked Cowboy from Times Square to stroll through the front door carrying his guitar. Instead, I discovered something even better, a bright, welcoming café that perfectly embodies Southern California’s fresh, health-conscious lifestyle. Sunlight poured through the windows as locals greeted one another over coffee and leisurely breakfasts, creating the kind of neighborhood atmosphere visitors hope to find The Breakfast Special for Roger was a hearty steak burrito that proved every bit as satisfying as it sounded. I opted for a horchata latte, blending espresso, steamed milk, cinnamon, whipped cream, and sweet horchata into one comforting morning indulgence. Harmonizing with fluffy banana blackberry pancakes topped with fresh sliced bananas and juicy blackberries, and one of my favorite Carlsbad breakfasts. Naked Café is relaxed, unpretentious, and unmistakably Carlsbad. Following breakfast, we continued exploring the charming streets of Carlsbad Village and independently owned boutiques, cafes, galleries and specialty shops inviting visitors to linger. Unlike destinations dominated by national chains, downtown Carlsberg has retained a genuine sense of place that makes every stroll feel like a new discovery. Our leisurely pace eventually led us to Choice Juice. If wellness was one of the recurring coverage of this assignment, Choice Juice fits perfectly into the story. Easy in concept yet exceptional in execution, the café specializes in fresh-pressed juices and nutrient rich smoothies prepared with premium ingredients that feature California’s abundance of fresh produce. Our choices were the PB&J smoothie, and I selected the Orange Creamsicle, whose bright citrus flavors delivered a refreshing boost we needed before continuing the afternoon. Sometimes luxury is found in grand experiences, and other times found in something as unassuming as enjoying an exceptional smoothie while strolling beneath swaying palm trees, and the melodic hum of birds on a gorgeous California afternoon. The Candle Bar A few steps from Choice Juice was the Candle Bar, and one of the unique experiences of my weekend coverage, where the two of us exchanged discovering for creativity. Rather than purchasing souvenirs, we created them. The process was surprisingly immersive. We investigated dozens of fragrance notes before blending our own signature scents, carefully selecting combinations that reflected our individual personalities. Once our fragrances were perfected, we hand-poured warm wax into elegant vessels, creating candles that were uniquely our own. The experience was equally part creative, soothing and surprisingly meaningful. The essence of travel, for me, is delightful memories, and long after this trip is over, the candles—not souvenirs, but memories that will continue filling our homes with fragrances that instantly transport us back to Carlsbad. Carlsbad’s Coastline With our candles safely packaged, we strolled Carlsbad’s four-mile-long oceanfront boardwalk,where time seems to slow with inlets and coves and acrobatic seagulls that sound as if they have sore throats. Carlsbad’s State Beach is in the California State Park System, encompassing 44 acres of protected land, and a city coastline that runs continuously for seven miles, and where waves gently roll toward shore, as surfers are patiently waiting for the next set, while below, families laugh together on the sand. Cyclists glide past, joggers enjoying the afternoon sunshine, and countless dogs happily accompanying their owners along the waterfront. People seemed genuinely happy to be outside enjoying another beautiful day on the Southern California coast. We found ourselves stopping frequently, because every few steps revealed another postcard-worthy photograph, and again, some of the finest travel experiences don’t come with admission tickets or guided tours, simply a walk with a friend, enjoying the rhythmic sound of the surf, and at that moment, there is no other place you need to be.
Nomada Mexican Restaurant with Elton John The sun was slowly vanishing into the ocean as we prepared for another evening that promised exceptional cuisine and unforgettable company. Nomada, led by praised chef-partner Alex Carballo, cooking with a wood-fired stove, an admired oyster bar, and live Latin music, was an ambience that felt both sophisticated and inviting. Because Elton John had become such an important part of the weekend, we chose to dine outdoors so he could join us once again. He quickly attracted smiles from fellow diners and warm greetings from the staff. His gentle personality invited conversations with complete strangers, making every dining excursion personal. Nomada embraces the spirit of shared dining, encouraging guests to gather around exquisitely prepared dishes. We began our dining trip to Mexico with classic fresh guacamole, where ripe avocados, cilantro, and fresh lime shouted the splendor of simple ingredients. Warm, freshly baked bolillos arrived next, along with an outstandingwood-fired jalapeño honey butter that struck a perfect note between sweetness and subtle heat. A bubbling queso fundido combined artisan cheeses with roasted rajas, Mexican squash, sweet corn, and savory chorizo into a dish that disappeared almost as quickly as it arrived. The main course featured nicely marinated carne asada served with charred green onions, salsa negra, guacamole, and black beans. It was a hearty yet refined interpretation of classic Mexican favorites. The Nomada dining was exceptional, but dessert was non-negotiable. A platter of warm churros paired with rich Tres leches cake, creating a sweet finale that perfectly concluded another remarkable evening in Carlsbad. Driving back to the hotel through downtown, I noticed how alive the village remained with couples lingering over wine, friends gathering on outdoor patios, live music drifting through the evening air, as dogs accompanied their owners from café to café. It was another reminder that Carlsbad isn’t solely attractive during the day, but a charm that continues long after sunset. Reminding myself, that there was only one day left before our journey home, yet somehow it felt as though we’d become part of the community. Tomorrow would provide one final breakfast, one final adventure with Elton John, and one last reminder of why saying goodbye to Carlsbad isn’t nearly as easy as arriving. Last Taste of Carlsbad Every memorable journey deserves a fitting finale, and for us, the final chapter was at Kona Craft Café. Like so many other places we visited throughout the weekend, Kona Craft Café immediately welcomed us with genuine warmth. Quickly, Roger’s tiny rescue Chihuahua, had once again become the center of attention. Members of the staff stopped by the table to greet us and to meet our four-legged traveling companion. It was now a running joke; wherever we went in Carlsbad, Elton John seemed to collect new admirers. Watching strangers smile, laugh, and stop to say hello perfectly reflected what we had experienced throughout the city. Breakfast turned out to be every bit as memorable with a vibrant acai bowl overflowing with fresh fruit and paired with the café’s signature P.O.G. slushie, which was an uplifting blend of passion fruit, fresh-squished orange juice, and guava nectar that tasted like sunshine in a glass. Roger chose a rich cup of locally brewed Kona coffee, and the Braddah Moco, a tasty plate of house-made kalua pork served over rice with savory brown gravy, two perfectly cooked eggs, furikake microgreens, and bits of fresh chives. It was the type of breakfast that encourages you to linger a little longer, and we did, but however, every charming destination visit will come to an end.
Carlsbad, a Hallmark Movie Destination Final Thoughts Making our way to the airport, I reflected on everything we had experienced over a few short days, and realizing that we had only begun to discover all that Carlsbad has to offer. Families can easily spend days exploring LEGOLAND California Resort, and the interactive SEA LIFE aquarium and Water Park, a premier Southern California family destination. Visitors can surf, swim, or simply enjoy the ocean at South Carlsbad State Beach or Tamarack State Beach, while those intrigued with nature will appreciate the peaceful splendor of the Batiquitos Lagoon Trail, where coastal wetlands provide a sanctuary for wildlife and an entirely different perspective of the region, as well as the beautifully preserved Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, once home to actor Leo Carrillo. A hidden gem, often overlooked by visitors, is a visit to the fascinating evolution of musical instruments at the Museum of Making Music. The selection of Carlsbad attractions is overwhelming, from golfing and wellness to the splendor of nature, and an active culinary scene with lingering candlelit dinners. If you’re lucky enough to travel with a dog, you’ll quickly experience another side of Carlsbad. Elton John wasn’t simply accommodated; he was embraced with the spirit of warmth that extended far beyond our four-legged companion. We encountered an authenticity that cannot be manufactured, and something that transforms a beautiful destination into an unforgettable one. The coastline was slowly disappearing behind us on the drive to the airport, and I was thinking about what we had experienced, and everything we hadn’t yet discovered. There were still beaches waiting, restaurants to be savored, trails to be ambled , and sunsets to be admired. This is Carlsbad’s greatest gift; it doesn’t leave you feeling as though your visit has ended, but leaves you planning your return before you’ve boarded your flight home. I’ve found that some destinations impress you, while others are inspiring, and Carlsbad accomplishes both long after the Pacific Ocean fades from view, you’ll find that a part of this remarkable seaside community has a way of traveling home with you..
Visit Carlsbad visitcarlsbad.com
What The Weekend Was Always Suppose To Feel Like Southern Utah. Direct From Denver. The fairway before anyone else wakes up, dinner where the mesa meets the sky, and a view worth every step on the trail.
Book Your Stay With Us Today 1500 E. Black Desert Dr. Ivins, UT 84738 I BlackDesertResort.com
Shoreline Splendor: Quiet Luxury in Rhode Island Trisha Ventker
Shoreline Splendor: Quiet Luxury in Rhode Island Trisha Ventker
Westerly’s, Weekapaug Inn, a Rhode Island jewel I’ve covered the world for Denver Colorado Luxury Magazine, but with a sharp note of excitement, I’m, at long last, looking forward to updating the state of Rhode Island, home of the historic Weekapaug Inn, positioned on the shoreline of Quonochontaug Pond and the Atlantic Ocean. At first glance, it seems to me that everything here is tagged with the word “historic,” which is extremely fascinating to experience living history for my readers. The nonstop Southwest flight from Denver to Providence, the capital, and to the Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport was 1,506 nautical miles and just under four hours of reading time. Landing, I took an Uber, and it was a ten-minute drive to The Loom for a one-night booking, where I met Matt Fletcher, a friend for 32 years, stretching back to my years in Manhattan, and who drove up from New York City to share the Rhode Island experience with me. The Loom, a Hilton Tapestry, is a riverside industrial-inspired escape with 163 rooms, five floors, and a restaurant. Loom’s chic design is inspired by the building’s textile mill history, complete with high ceilings, exposed brick, and polished concrete floors. Conveniently, Warwick Mall is half a mile away, and downtown Providence is an attractive 10-mile drive. The next morning we drove to Weekapaug Inn in Westerly for a three-night booking. The thrill of travel with this assignment is the stark difference of Colorado, a mountain- laden, Old West state, and Rhode Island, dramatically influenced by the sea, which has pioneered major historical, political, and cultural achievements, including some 21 “Firsts,” some of which are, the First Colony to Declare Independence, the First Town Founded by a Woman, First to Guarantee Religious Freedom, the First Discount Department Store, and, in 1895, the First Open Golf Tournament. Finding a Name For all its history, Little Rhody (its affectionate nickname) is a dynamo; it’s the smallest state in the Union, only 37 miles wide and 48 miles long, though its shoreline on Narragansett Bay in the Atlantic Ocean runs for 400 miles. A wonderful bonus for the residents, is that all Rhode Islanders live within a thirty-minute drive to the Atlantic Ocean or Narragansett Bay. An Italian explorer in 1524 became the first European to log a description of the area. He noted an island near the mouth of Narragansett Bay that reminded him of the Island of Rhodes in the Mediterranean. In 1614 the area was named by Dutch explorer Adriaen Block “Red Island,” named after the distinct red clay lining the coastline, though when the British took control of the region, the name was anglicized to Rhode Island. Weekapaug Inn and Ocean House There are destinations that offer a striking stay, and there are destinations that appear to retain the memories of generations within their walls. Along the windswept coastline of Westerly, Rhode Island, Weekapaug Inn, a Relais & Châteaux property, and Ocean House capture the essence of classic New England summers while delivering the understated luxury of a modern day escape with lasting memories.
Shoreline Splendor: Quiet Luxury in Rhode Island
A Seaside Tradition Since 1899
The Inn, another historic listing in this coverage, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2007. Fronted by two massive saltwater tidal ponds. The name Weekapaug originates from the indigenous Narragansett language, translated literally to “head of the pond.” Founders Frederick and Phebe Buffum built the resort in 1899 on a spectacular strip of land between the Atlantic Ocean and Quonochontaug Pond with a vision to create a welcoming seaside retreat with carefree days of water play and socializing. Weekapaug became less a hotel than a traditionand a destination where childhood memories were formed and then passed from one generation to the next. In 1938 a devastating hurricane severely damaged the original beachfront inn, known as the Great New England Hurricane or “The Long Island Express,” and it stands as one of the most destructive natural disasters in the region’s history, submerging downtown Providence under 14 feet of water, with storm tides reaching 20 feet. The Buffum family refused to let the Weekapaug tradition disappear. They rebuilt the following year, choosing a more sheltered location along the western shore of Quonochontaug Pond. The Buffum family ran the inn for 108 years (possibly another historic record) until it closed for renovation in 2007. Weekapaug began another chapter when resident Lang Wheeler and Watch Hill resident Chuck Royce, in 2010, spent some $20 million transforming the inn to its former glory. It reopened in October 2012 as a year-round luxury destination carefully balancing modern comforts with the character and traditions that had defined it for more than a century. An Elegant New England Summer Home Today, cedar shingles, ocean views, and an intimate residential atmosphere give Weekapaug Inn the feeling of an elegant New England summer home. Guest rooms are individually designed, and vintage pieces from the earlier inn provide subtle reminders of its storied past. Small and intimate, the inn offers 33 guest accommodations, which include four signature suites with fully fitted kitchens and two upscale Carriage House suites with private entries. I booked a comfortable and relaxed Garden Suite facing the village of Weekapaug with marvelous sunset views. Quonochontaug Pond and the Atlantic become part of the Weekapaug experience, with boating, kayaking, biking, birdwatching, beach walks, and excursions led by the inn’s naturalist. Ocean House: The Grand Dame of Watch Hill A short drive from the Inn, Ocean House, a sister property of Weekapaug, sits dramatically above the Atlantic in the village of Watch Hill; opened in 1868, and during an era when grand seaside hotels lined the New England coastline where affluent families escaped the cities for long summer holidays by the sea. However, by the early 2000s the historic building had deteriorated beyond feasible repair and closed in 2002. Rather than allow one of Watch Hill’s defining landmarks to disappear, an extraordinary renewal took place. More than 5,000 original architectural and decorative elements were salvaged and incorporated into the new Ocean House, including a meticulously recreated exterior, and all 247 windows occupying their original positions, preserving the unmistakable silhouette that generations had associated with Watch Hill. The reborn Ocean House opened in 2010, bringing the grandeur of New England’s golden age of seaside hospitality into the 21st century. The yellow-clad property overlooks 13 oceanfront acres and a 650-foot private white-sand beach with sweeping views toward Block Island, Montauk, and the Atlantic. Ocean House offers refined accommodations, exceptional dining, an acclaimed spa, and, according to guests, impeccable service that has established Ocean House among North America’s distinguished luxury resorts. Two Personalities, One Astounding Rhode Island Experience Rhode Island is a madame with a heart and where it’s possible to adore two related properties with passion, while realizing how skillfully they complement one another. Weekapaug Inn feels intimate, relaxed, and wonderfully residential—a quiet coastal hideaway where mornings can begin beside the pond and afternoons unfold on the beach or in the rhythmic ebb and flow of the Atlantic. While Ocean House feels grander and theatrical, being an elegant landmark high above the Atlantic where verandas, manicured grounds, creative dining, and classic seaside traditions recall another era. Yet the two are intrinsically connected. A nice feature is Weekapaug Inn guests have access to complimentary daily resort activities at Ocean House, allowing guests to experience both personalities during a Rhode Island visit. Together they represent something increasingly difficult to find in luxury travel properties. The two haven’t simply borrowed history’s design aesthetic; they have lived it.
From an inn established in 1899 and rebuilt after one of New England’s most destructive hurricanes to a grand 1868 seaside hotel painstakingly resurrected for a new generation, Weekapaug Inn and Ocean House preserve an astonishing piece of Rhode Island’s coastal history. More than a century later, the formula remains wonderfully simple: the ocean, timeless hospitality, and the irresistible pleasure of experiencing this area. The Restaurant We began the second day at Weekapaug Inn with a light bite for breakfast at The Restaurant and enjoyed a Weekapaug tour with Rachel, who shared all the nuances of this remarkable property. Following the tour, we had lunch at the Olympia Tea Room, located on Bay Street in the village of Weekapaug. Olympia offers creative cuisine, craft cocktails, an extensive wine list, and picturesque seaside sunsets in a charming, classic New England setting. Matt and I both ordered New England’s clam chowder, shared a shrimp cocktail, and for dessert, one of my favorites, a slice of Key Lime pie. After lunch, we strolled about the village, and past Taylor Swift’s house, which was well guarded. We could only see the gates, but it was cool, for sure. Dinner at Ocean House’s Bistro was a long-lasting memory. Matt began the evening with a glass of Napa HG 3, 2023, Proprietary Blend. I enjoyed a non-alcoholic craft cocktail. We shared a selection of starters: an impressive house-created salmon rillette, a classic and stylish, creamy, and textured French-style, herb-studded salmon spread with balanced, smoky, and bright flavors that Chef Shawn Thomas created with grilled sourdough and crispy Rhode Island calamari. A sesame tuna tataki with Shishito peppers, and a dash of lemon aioli was savory and with layers of taste. A salad influenced by Southeast Asia, Malaysia, and South Africa was refreshingly crisp with chili and red onion. We also shared the grilled hanger steak, splashed with Bearnaise sauce. Chef Thomas who has an impressive culinary portfolio, cooking in New England and the East Coast, and focusing on seasonal New England ingredients and classic regional flavors, dropped by our table. Day Two – Newport After a refreshing night’s sleep, breakfast at the Weekapaug Inn was perfect for a busy day to delve into Newport. Matt enjoyed a vegetarian hash, I had a dish of poached eggs, and followed by a forty minute drive to Newport. A brilliant Rhode Island star is iconic Newport, often called the “Queen of American Resorts,” brimming with luxury, high society, and the deep practical roots of a historic maritime seaport. The state’s oldest Roman Catholic parish, St. Mary’s, founded in 1828, was the Newport site of the wedding of Jacqueline Bouvier and John Kennedy in 1953. Newport is a living museum of America’s turn-of-the-century wealthy elite; the Newport mansions, which the Vanderbilt and Astor families modestly termed “summer cottages,” along with numerous others, line Bellevue Avenue, Ochre Point Avenue, and the scenic Ocean Drive coastal corridor. Together these streets define the Bellevue Avenue Historic District, a National Historic Landmark zone
Shoreline Splendor: Quiet Luxury in Rhode Island The Marble House A collection of imposing palatial estates like The Breakers, 1895, and Marble House, 1892, both built by the Vanderbilts, reflect an era of unmatched architectural extravagance modeled after European palaces. We toured The Breakers and The Marble House and took pleasure in high tea at the Chinese Tea House at the Marble House, named for 500,000 square feet of rare, imported marble used in its designand also heavily influenced by French history. William K. Vanderbilt commissioned the “cottage“ as a 39th birthday gift to his wife, Alva. Following her divorce, Alva used her fortune to back the women’s suffrage movement and built an authentic Chinese Tea House on the ocean cliffs and utilized the 140,000-square-foot estate to host massive women’s suffrage rallies and essential meetings, turning a pinnacle of capitalism excess into a primary battleground for civil rights. Alva became a leader in women’s suffrage, organizing political strength for the movement in New York City and elsewhere. High Tea at the Chinese Tea House During high tea we met the owner, Christopher from Stone Acre Hospitality, as my mind was whirling about Alva and her essential and historic place in society during her lifetime and her beloved Chinese Tea House where she spent quiet time. Jackie was our server, and it was an afternoon feast. Our welcome beverage was a lavender lemon spritz, and a table absolutely filled with various delicious creations. Pastries were coconut scones and hot buttermilk biscuits with sides of seasonal jams, slices of honey butter, and whipped, creamy Devonshire cream. Savories were the traditional deviled eggs or chicken salad with a mini croissant. The Cucumber Boursin with white bread, and aromatic Pimento Cheese accompanied by small cuts of house-made, whole wheat bread and Hummus Flower were punchy with the fresh herb foundation. A vegetable crudité was designed with bits of pomegranate and chives. Entrées were a whipped burrata toast with roasted tomato and basil. Enticing the sweet desires on the table were flavorful macarons; sea salt and yummy fudge brownies, along with a dish of succulent berries and cream, an appetizing cinnamon coffee cake, and a selection of Earl Grey tea for the both of us. Newport Classic Cruises, Bannister’s Wharf Following a heartfelt goodbye to the Chinese Tea House, and a top-flight, five-star high tea experience, we headed to the harbor and sailed on a Rum Runner Boat cruise, setting sail through Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay aboard a classic yacht, taking in picturesque views of Fort Adams, Castle Hill Lighthouse, the Newport Bridge, and the city’s captivating rocky coastline. Newport has long been noted as a world-class sailing harbor and the long-time historic home of America’s Cup. The town’s heartbeat is tied directly to the sea. The harbor is filled with sleek superyachts to vintage, 12-meter racing yachts, while the harbor’s cobblestone wharves are packed with active boatyards, upscale seafood restaurants, and waterfront taverns. Marion “Mamie” Fish On our sail, Nora was the bartender and guide, and as we sailed past Marion “Mamie” Fish’s mansion, Nora shared some “Mamie” Newport history. During the Gilded Age, Mamie Fish, along with her partner-in-crime, the high-society prankster, Harry Lehr, was famous for throwing outrageous, fast-paced, and satirical theme parties at Crossways, her Bellevue Avenue grand colonial revival mansion, specifically to mock the rigid etiquette of old-money Newport society. At the time, an invitation to one of her parties was a prized treasure.
She was one of the most eccentric, rule-breaking social hostesses of Newport during the Gilded Age. Mamie was defined by her sharp caustic wit, loud laugh, and a determination to cure the absolute boredom of old-money social rituals. She introduced the 30-minute, eight-course dinner to force guests through the boring part of the evening and straight into drinking, dancing, and socializing. She hosted a legendary dinner party entirely for dogs and another featuring a tuxedo-clad monkey introduced as a prince, or guests could be surprised by the appearance of a little donkey cantering into the ballroom laden down with favors. She once threw a party where she placed a giant sandbox in the middle of the dining room as part of the centerpiece. Rather than hosting a traditional multi-course dinner, guests were given sterling silver pails and Tiffany & Co. silver shovels/trowels to dig through the sand for buried party favors. The treasures hidden in the sand were actual luxury jewels, including diamonds, rubies, and emeralds. At the time, an invitation to one of her parties was a prized treasure. 22 Bowen’s Wine Bar & Grille Following the sail and wanting to remain in the celebrated harbor atmosphere, we booked dinner at 22 Bowen’s, a classic waterfront steakhouse on historic Bowen’s Wharf that has been operating for 25 years under the 100% employee-owned Newport Restaurant Group. The restaurant offers both steaks and fresh seafood in an elegant yet relaxed setting overlooking Newport Harbor. Carol, our server, with a smile on her lips, brought us a platter of crab cakes, created with chipotle lime remoulade, field greens, and pickled red onion. The Wedge was a baby iceberg topped with aromatic and appetizing Maytag bleu cheese, tomato, bacon, and segments of red onion. The American 6 oz Wagyu filet mignon was flawlessly prepared, as were the side of truffle mac & cheese, a passion fruit spritz, and a scandalous chocolate layer cake. Sunday, Our Last Day On our last day it was important for me to investigate Westerly and other dining opportunities. Westerly, a highly popular beach-front town with 23,359 permanent residents, was first settled by English colonists in 1661 and today has numerous dining choices. We stopped by Nana’s Westerly, located at 82 High Street, a highly rated organic bakery with an impressive array of organic, vegetarian, and vegan options and outdoor seating. A breakfast specialty, for me, was the chilled cocoa chia & oat pudding, with seasonal jam, cocoa nibs, and a sprinkle of sea salt. Matt’s choice was Eggs Benedict, and we both enjoyed a cup of Expresso Coconut Migo Caramel Oat Milk. A stroll about town took us to the Westerly Museum of Impressionism, and then for lunch we drove to Narragansett and dined at the Coast Guard House. Narragansett Bay, dating to the late 1800s. With unrivaled panoramic ocean views, they are noted for serving locally harvested seafood, and we followed par with House Made Stuffies: Four Top Neck Clams with Chorizo & Red Bell Pepper Stuffing. The mussels were created with saffron butter sauce, garlic, shallots, red bell peppers, and grilled ciabatta. Another huge winner was the crab salad, created with watercress, sliced cucumbers, cilantro, red pepper, red onion, celery, EVOO, (the highest quality of olive oil), and lime wedges. The chef ignited his cuisine with vim and vigor, and we would definitely return. After dinner we enjoyed a stroll on Narragansett Beach; the sky was festooned and scalloped with clouds, leaving a softly tinted sky, while seabirds skimmed low over the tide.
Shoreline Splendor: Quiet Luxury in Rhode Island Quonnie Queen Tour Heading back to Weekapaug Inn, we joined the inn’s boat tour aboard a 24-foot electric Elco launch boat to observe the calm, serene waters of Quonochontaug Pond and see one of South County’s most picturesque coastal waterways. Known locally as “Quonnie,” the forty-minute sail was a splendid cap to the Rhode Island coverage, watching the bird life and feeling the rhythm of the sea. A light breeze ruffled the water as the afternoon dropped away, the coastline rocky with coves and inlets and boat life. Our final goodbye dinner was at The Café in Westerly. From the menu I selected a French Dip shaved prime rib with aged provolone, twenty-four-hour onions, a dash of horseradish, aioli, and tallow fries. Matt selected a house favorite, a flavorful ricotta Gnocchi with a local lobster, created with guanciale and sweet corn velouté. Both were excellent selections and the essence of Rhode Island cuisine. I said goodbye to Matt, who had to head back to New York City for an upcoming workday. Monday, Farewell Day Before heading to the airport after check out I stopped at the Cooked Goose and dined on magnificent buttermilk cinnamon roll pancakes with cinnamon streusel topped with cream cheese icing. It was a fitting farewell to Weekapaug Inn and Rhode Island. Final Thoughts There are destinations you visit, and then there are places that somehow become part of the story. Rhode Island was the latter. From waking to the peaceful beauty surrounding the Weekapaug Inn and wandering the seaside streets of Watch Hill to stepping inside the magnificent mansions of Newport and imagining the extraordinary lives that once lived within their walls, every moment felt steeped in history, beauty, and a sense of timelessness. Add exceptional cuisine, gracious hospitality, and the ever-present backdrop of the Atlantic, and this corner of New England becomes something truly special. The Weekapaug Inn was more than a place to stay; it was the heart of our journey, a refined and welcoming retreat that captured everything we came to love about Rhode Island. We arrived expecting a beautiful coastal escape; we left with memories of a place we will want to visit again. Because sometimes the greatest luxury of travel isn’t simply discovering something new; it’s discovering somewhere you’re not quite ready to leave. Of Note When spending time in Newport with a car, be cognizant of the parking conditions. Parking can be a bit tight at times. Allow enough time to arrive at your destination if you have reservations or a boat ride. The Weekapaug Inn also has an enforced resort casual dress code.
Visit Rhode Island visitrhodeisland.com
ZAMA OASIS: YOUR PRIVATE ROOFTOP OASIS IN ALDEA ZAMA TRADE WINTER FOR TULUM What if your winter looked a little different this year? Wake to the sounds of the jungle. Have coffee on your private balcony. Work remotely with excellent highspeed Wi-Fi, spend the afternoon beside your own rooftop infinity pool, and end the day with cocktails under the palapa. Welcome to The Jungle Rooftop Oasis, a spacious, fully furnished two-bedroom penthouse in Zama Oasis, one of Aldea Zama’s established residential communities. Designed for effortless extended stays, the penthouse offers approximately 2,530 sq. ft. (235 m²) of indoor and private outdoor living, with a spectacular rooftop retreat featuring an infinity pool, palapa, wet bar, outdoor shower, bathroom, large-screen TV and four loungers—all reached by your own interior staircase. Inside, you’ll find two comfortable bedrooms with blackout shades, two bathrooms, quiet air conditioning, washer and dryer, smart locks, excellent Wi-Fi, water filtration and softening, and everything you need to simply arrive, unpack and feel at home. Perfect for snowbirds, remote professionals and extended stays—or anyone who has ever dreamed of making Tulum home for a little while. Come for Tulum. Stay for the feeling of having a home here. Available for Extended & Seasonal Rentals
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Sixty-Three Years on the Sand: Legacy Meets Hawai’i at Kaimana Beach Hotel Trisha Ventker
Sixty-Three Years on the Sand: Legacy Meets Hawai’i at Kaimana Beach Hotel Trisha Ventker Kaimana Beach Hotel, Oahu, honors it’s royal past, embraces Hawaiian culture,celebrates its natural surroundings, and delivers contemporary luxury withoutsacrificing authenticity. Arriving at the Kaniel K. Inouye International Airport, Oahu, Hawaii, upon disembarking, visitors are greeted by a unique, and delightful fragrant euphoria, which is the scent of freshly cut flowers enticing the senses, as the traditional luau greeting of lei flowers lifting to the air, a sweet, heavy, floral aroma, the Hawaiian jasmine, intense, romantic, exotic, and tropical. The Hawaiian luau, tradition of bestowing on visitors a bounteous floral lei greeting, has ancient Polynesian roots stretching back more than a thousand yearsand, for me, is the most elegant airport greeting in the world. The Aloha greeting in the Hawaiian language, has a deep, emotional, cultural, and spiritual significance, embracing peace and harmony, hello and goodbye. I’m traveling with my husband Tom and son Tristan, 19, a freshman on summer break from the University of Arizona. I’ve often covered family travel, and it was time for a firsthand upgrade. The flight from Denver was 3,365 air miles, the Hawaiian Islands being recognized as the most geographically isolated population center on earth, nearly 3,850 miles away from Japan, and roughly, 2,500 miles north of Tahiti, where the ancient Polynesians from the Marquesas and other Polynesian Islands, in massive, double-hulled voyaging canoes, 50 to 60 feet long using pandanus leaves to capture the wind, and remarkably, for thousands of miles, steering by stars in the revealing night sky. However, when clouds or storms blocked the stars, they navigated entirely by the rhythm of the ocean, and the predictable trade winds, finally arriving in Hawaii after a challenging journey of two to four weeks, enduring the fickle, and often treacherous Pacific Ocean climate variations. The Kaimana Beach Hotel Luxury hotels abound that impress with size, and resorts that dazzle with amenities, and then there are other properties that are nicely woven into the culture of a destination. With thanks to the ancient Polynesians and virtually surrounded by island history, the nine-story property, on the shores of Kaimana Beach, offers 122 rooms, which include five luxury suites on the top floor, and in 2024, awards from Travel & Leisure, as the fourth top rated Hawaiian hotel, and among the world’s top 500 properties, is an enormous success. The hotel is nicely positioned on the quieter, southeast end of Waikiki Beach, directly fronting Kaimana Beach, also known historically as San Souci Beach and adjacent to Kapi’ Olani Regional Park with tennis and pickleball courts, and with the park, a half mile of green space. The aquarium is nearby, and on the far west end is the zoo. My first impressions of Kaimana Beach Hotel are a sweeping sense of serenity and relaxation; the property is on the less-crowded eastern edge of the Waikiki coastline, gently occupying one of the most coveted stretches of shoreline on Oahu’s famed Waikiki Gold Coast. Waikiki in the Hawaiian language means “sprouting fresh water,” and historically, before the rise of development, Waikiki was a vast, fertile wetland fed by multiple mountain streams, and underground fresh water streams that sprouted between the coral. and was a favored retreat of the ruling royalty of the Hawaiian Kingdom, who built homes here. Protected by Diamond Head, blessed with calm ocean waters, and cooling trade winds, the area was recognized as one of the most desired stretches of the two mile long Waikiki coastline that is a continuous chain of several beach sections connected by boardwalks and walkways.
Sixty-Three Years on the Sand: Legacy Meets Hawai’i at Kaimana Beach Hotel The First Lodgings on San Souci Beach It all began in early 1884/1893 when, among the first Waikiki accommodations, the one-story “Sans Souci,” French for “without a care,” opened for business. The wood lodging house, and traditional thatched-roof bungalows, scattered along the beach, shaded by coconut and palm trees, were popular at the time, and the highly prolific 19th century Scottish writer, poet, and travel writer, Robert Louis Stevenson wrote in the guest book, “If anyone desires old-fashioned things as lovely scenery, quiet, pure air, clean sea water, good food, and heavenly sunsets hung out before their eyes over the Pacific, and the distant hills of Waianae, I recommend him cordially to the San Souci.” Following in the sand-laden, barefoot steps of San Souci, circa 1903, the McInerny family, founders of one of Honolulu’s most successful department stores, established a grand Victorian beachfront estate. In the mid-20th century, Japanese immigrants, leased the area from the McInerny family and designed an authentic Japanese tea house, building a small 12-unit block of apartments, titled Hotel Kaimana. In 1963/64, the property entered a new chapter, when the Japanese constructed a modern nine-story, 125-room hotel, and for over five decades it operated as the New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel. For the next 56 years, it became beloved among Japanese travelers seeking a quieter alternative to central Waikiki, and many longtime visitors still affectionately refer to the property simply as “The New Otani.” Following a major renovation, the hotel reemerged in 2021 as Kaimana Beach Hotel, embracing a fresh vision rooted in local culture, contemporary Hawaiian design, and a deeper connection to its remarkable history. The proud, oceanfront retreat, historically situated between the iconic slopes of the Diamond Head crater, and the energy of Waikiki, has earned a loyal following by offering something increasingly rare in modern travel, an authentic sense of place. Kaimana Beach Hotel is celebrating 63 historic years on the sands of San Souci beach, while continuing to evolve for a new generation of travelers. The property remains one of Waikiki’s most cherished boutique hotels and seamlessly blends history, culture, cuisine, and contemporary island hospitality into an experience that feels distinctly Hawaiian, and unlike many Waikiki hotels, Kaimana offers an intimate emotion and feels more like a beach house than a resort, despite being less than a mile from the heart of the city. Greeted with Smiles Breathing in the cleanest and freshest air in the United States, created by strong Pacific trade winds that constantly sweep across the islands, the feeling is uplifting. Arriving at the hotel, we received a warm welcome from Elle at the front desk. Her friendliness and genuine Aloha immediately set the tone for the days ahead. We booked ocean view accommodations, south facing on the fifth floor, overlooking a lengthy stretch of beach. Stepping into the spacious Junior Suite, the hotel began to reveal exactly why it has remained one of Waikiki’s most beloved retreats for more than six decades, with embracing views framed through oversized floor-to-ceiling windows, flooding the rooms with natural light throughout the day, and far-reaching views of a gleaming, deep blue Pacific Ocean speckled with activity. The endless hues of blue, creating a calming backdrop that instantly slowed the pace of life. The Junior Suite was airy, modern, and relaxed, perfectly reflecting the rhythm of island living. The interior, chic and charming, decorated with soft neutral earth tones with touches of ocean blue and wicker and wood elements. The suite balanced comfort and luxury with thoughtful touches throughout. One esteemed feature was the Japanese Toto Washlet bidet, a detail that seasoned travelers appreciate, and can elevate an already exceptional stay. The suite felt less like a hotel accommodation and more like a private beachfront residence and perfectly reflects the character of Kaimana Beach Hotel. Unlike many Waikiki properties, where guests admire the ocean from afar, Kaimana places guests directly within the landscape, and becomes not merely a view, but part of your visit. The connection to the ocean, the history, and the culture is what has allowed Kaimana to thrive throughout the years. The property’s thoughtful amenities and activities reinforce that feeling. Guests can partake in yoga classes, traditional lei-making workshops, hula lessons, stand-up paddleboarding, weekly stargazing sessions, beach chairs, and towels are organized, organic reef-safe sunscreen is available, as is premium filtered Vivreau water concierge services. Vivreau utilizes a filtration system to provide fresh, chilled, still, sparkling, or hot water, while purifying it of chemicals and heavy metals, and retaining beneficial natural minerals. For the bath, superb California based, wellness LATHER amenities.
Lanai Ocean Splendor From sunrise to sunset, the lanai, was a front-row seat to the living theater of Kalmana Beach. Swimmers floated through the calm turquoise waters, body surfers gleefully riding the waves, and longboarders paddling toward the historic offshore surf breaks, as native Hawaiian birds fly low across the waves in fleeting style. Outrigger canoes glide across the horizon beneath the watchful presence of Diamond Head with outrigger canoe racing, the official sport of Hawaii profoundly entrenched in ancient Polynesian culture and voyaging traditions. All-day family beach festivals celebrate the ten to 41 mile races, for both men and women, drawing elite global teams from Australia, New Zealand, Polynesia, and elsewhere, who endure one of the most demanding races in the Hawaiian archipelago. The 41 mile, open-ocean race from the island of Molokai across the notorious, and challenging Kaiwi channel stretching 26 to 32 treacherous miles, finishing at Duke Kahanamoku Beach in Waikiki, is a test of skill and endurance. Relaxing on the lanai, we noticed below us the remarkably clear water revealed an abundance of marine life. Protected Hawaiian Green sea turtles could often be seen gracefully swimming through the shallows, occasionally surfacing for air before disappearing into the Pacific. Even more remarkable were the Hawaiian monk seals, one of the world’s most endangered marine mammals that appeared along the shoreline steps from our hotel room, and a powerful reminder that despite being only minutes from lively Waikiki, Kaimana remains deeply connected to Hawaii’s natural heritage. Each morning begins with the entrancing sound of waves, while towering Diamond Head stands watch over the coastline, as residents stroll the shoreline before work, and surfers paddling in search of a wave. Glowing Sunsets The pace of the setting feels refreshingly unhurried. When the afternoons drop away and evenings approach, the lanai transforms into spectacular sunsets. Night after night, the lingering colors exploded into brilliant shades of gold, orange, pink, and violet, with Diamond Head silhouetted against the fading light. Minutes after sunset, the high rises on the Waikiki skyline with their room lights transform into a great juxtaposition with the ocean and an unusual bit of a big-city vibe. On Friday nights there are fireworks, which were visible from the lanai. Tom and Tristan walked half a mile to the pier just past the volleyball court on the beach to watch with tourists and residents. Historic Hau Tree Restaurant, the Heart of the Hotel The heart and center of Kaimana’s guest experience is one of Honolulu’s most significant dining destinations, standing as both the social and culinary heart of the property. We enthusiastically capped the day with dinner at the open air, and renowned Hau Tree restaurant, steps from the beach, beneath the shade of the Hau trees, who some say are haunted with ancient Hawaiian concepts. In 1963, during the construction of the hotel, the original restaurant space and mature Hau trees were intentionally left completely intact, which were once the oceanfront lanai or back porch of the McInerny family estate. Author Robert Louis Stevenson sat and wrote poetry under this same grove of Hau trees during the late 19th century, and today it is an ultra-romantic setting for wedding proposals, and lifelong memories. Seating 75 guests, it reopened in January 2021 after an extensive hotel remodel, and the modern, airy, dining room was cleverly designed around the trees to preserve their natural canopy.
Sixty-Three Years on the Sand: Legacy Meets Hawai’i at Kaimana Beach Hotel -continuedCreating in the kitchen were Executive Chef Chaz Wilmore from Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and Chef de Cuisine, Denacio Urias, who built his 15-year career on Oahu and is exceedingly respected for his commitment touplifting Hawaii’s dining scene. The chef’s oversee a culinary program celebrating Hawaii’s ingredients while honoring the restaurant’s rich legacy of fresh sea selections, lavish brunches, a signature Eggs Benedict, house-made pastries, desserts, richly augmented by Pau Hana gatherings, and live music sessions. Pau Hana, the Hawaiian version of “happy hour,” isan informal social ritual of relaxing and connecting with others immediately after the workday, and where guests and locals can linger from breakfast until sunset. Golden sunset light danced across the Pacific, as we settled at a table beneath the trees, overlooking the beach, while observant server, Rob, guided us through a menu that displayed both creativity and sophistication. The fried eggplant is complemented by smoked yogurt, raw honey, a squeeze of lemon zest, and focaccia finished with fragrant sage, and garlic balsamic butter. Tom and Tristan are not fans of eggplant, but after a taste, they said it was absolutely delicious, and fought for the remaining wedge. Before me was a plate of fennel sausage orecchiette, a classic Italian pasta hailing from Puglia, layered with black truffle fonduta, and crispy rosemary, while Tom and Tristan both selected king salmon paired with slices of rainbow carrots, peas, and beurre monte, which is a rich and warm emulsified butter sauce. Mango Whoopsie mocktails were a blend of coconut, peach, mango, lime, Meyer lemon, rosemary, and soda into a tropical energizer. Dessert arrived as a decadent toasted coconut cake, created with vanilla, rum, and white chocolate. For me, it was Hau Tree that captured eminent island cuisine served with a front row seat to paradise. Our final morning brought us back for breakfast, where we shared a fresh baked pastry board with butter, croissants, dark chocolate, scones, banana bread, and house-made jams. The avocado toast was topped with pepper jam, pickled onions, cilantro, and soft-boiled eggs paired beautifully with a yogurt and granola cup encrusted with pineapple jam and fresh fruit. On an early morning, as the waves, just feet away, rolled onto the sand, It became clear why Hau Tree continues to earn accolades as one of Honolulu’s premier outdoor dining experiences with superior service such as server Rajah, who always welcomed us with a smile, as well as gracious Emily, manager of the boutique Sunset Provisions, where I enjoyed my daily Honey Girl Latte, and browsed their locally sourced and Asian made products. Beyond the Gold Coast While Kaimana’s peaceful setting encourages guests to slow down, its location also makes it an ideal home base for exploring the city’s evolving culinary scene, with more than 500 sit down restaurants and dozens of international award-winning chefs. With that selection in mind, we decided to cover the highly rated, trendy, and open-air, Swell Restaurant located on the 5th floor, rooftop deck of the Waikiki Beach, Alohilani Resort, a sister resort to Kaimana, with a dramatic saltwater infinity pool. Settled into a private cabana overlooking the lively pool deck, it was an afternoon of sunshine, hospitality, and island-inspired cuisine. Tom and Tristan enjoyed the expansive fitness, and well-equipped fitness center, while employee Andrew provided thoughtful service throughout the day, as Jones ensured we were comfortable with towels and an introduction to the property. Luke, the manager, personally greeted us and shared recommendations from both the menu and cocktail menus.
Lunch began with Ahi Poke, nachos crowned with tuna poke, avocado slices, zesty kimchi cucumbers, furikake, cilantro, spicy aioli, and unagi sauce atop crisp wonton chips. Chicken Karaage Bao Buns were created with nicely marinated fried chicken, pickled ginger and shallots, ginger-pineapple aioli, and shiso, a stimulating herb belonging to the mint family. Additional menu favorites were a Caprese Sandwich with heirloom tomatoes, a slab of fresh mozzarella, and sun-dried tomato olive tapenade, and Angus beef sliders served on toasted Hawaiian rolls--was attractive on the plate, and delicious to the taste. Refreshing tropical spritzes infused with mango, passion fruit, strawberry, mint-watermelon, and lime flavor, perfectly complemented the afternoon. 855-Aloha Calling A full moon was glowing as we were conveyed back to Hawaii to the alive and swinging ‘60s while experiencing one of Honolulu’s most intriguing themed dining destinations, 855-Aloha. About a half mile from Swell Restaurant, located within adults-only Romer House Waikiki, the restaurant sends a sweetheart remembrance message to vintage Waikiki, named after a once-ubiquitous payphone number (855-Aloha) where one would dial the number to connect with a global operator, to be in touch with someone across the oceans. The restaurant is recalling mid-century Hawaii, the dialing era, and the ‘60’s aesthetics. The phone booths that once were throughout the islands have become one of the iconic symbols of Hawaii, and the nostalgia begins when entering 855-Aloha, who sets the theme with one of Hawaii’s original sky-blue payphone booths in the lobby, next to the check-in stand greeting guests and a quick photo opt too. The theme expands to explicitly encourage guests to put down their smartphones, lean into conversation, and embrace a slower life pace. The interior reflects the vintage theme with murals depicting the classic blue phone booths, and framed vintage classified Oahu ads. The dinner menu is designed with royal blue colors and white hibiscus flowers found on the Hawaiian telephone booths, and the mid-century textile lighting suspended over the tables, sets the mood for a trip back to another era. Chef Brad Dodson is at the helm of 855-Aloha, whose culinary journey began with strong Portuguese family influences rooted in the Azores. Bringing more than fifteen years of cooking experience, Dodson refined his skills in respected Oahu kitchens, including Brick Fire Tavern and the acclaimed Mud Hen Water, working under celebrated Hawaiian chef, Ed Kenny. Rather than focusing on traditional fine dining, Chef Dodson focuses on the dishes the residents grew up with, his selections drawing inspiration from Hawaii’s potlucks, local plate lunch traditions. Chinatown favorites, family recipes, and the mishmash of countries that define Hawaii, such as Japan, South Korea, Portugal, the Philippines, Samoa, Tonga, Micronesia. and Hawaiian influences that describe island cuisine. Our exceptional server, Noe, guides us through a menu filled with playful interpretations of beloved local cuisine. Highlights were Auntie’s Gau Gee featuring crispy mushroom wontons with sambal and secret sauce; Kimono, was a creative combination of shrimp, tempura, krab, tuna, and Kewpie mayonnaise; the Chinatown Chili Crisp Chicken, was brilliant, served with broccolini, charred lemon, and cilantro. Ahi Katsu, a popular Hawaiian fusion dish, was paired with tonkatsu sauce, a tangy, thick, dark brown Japanese condiment with deeply savory flavors, and a handful of shredded cabbage. Finally, a plate of pungent wok-fried Yakisoba vegetables, a classic Japanese street food, made of stir-fried wheat noodles, an appetizing brown sauce, finished with a dash of Japanese curry, was layered with taste. Soft drinks accompanied the dining for Tristan and me, while Tom ordered a cold Sapporo, the oldest beer brand in Japan, founded in 1886. The evening perfectly reflected Honolulu’s culinary identity, diverse, creative, nostalgic, and unmistakably Hawaiian.
Sixty-Three Years on the Sand: Legacy Meets Hawai’i at Kaimana Beach Hotel Sunday Morning Hula at Kaimana Beach What truly separates Kaimana Beach Hotel is its commitment to connecting guests with Hawaiian culture. On a bright Sunday morning, along with others, we were invited to join a hula lesson led by Kaleimani. For many, hula is Hawaii’s most recognizable cultural tradition with the lively music, dance, chants, and movements. Yet as we quickly learned, hula is much more than a dance. Hawaii’s hula dance is ingrained in ancient Polynesian oral tradition, sacred religious rituals, and Hawaiian mythology. Developed by the first native Hawaiians who migrated from Polynesia, it was created as a deeply spiritual practice to record history, long before a written language existed. Many traditions universally believe Laka as the principal goddess and patron protector of hula, while others believe hula was born on the island of Molokai. There are hundreds of Hula schools throughout Hawaii, with major competitive festivals yearlong, the most famed and prestigious world hula dance competition takes place on the Big Island, a week-long cultural celebration, the week after Easter. Thoughtfully, King David Kalakaua famously called Hula“the language of the heart.” With the Pacific Ocean as our backdrop, Kaleimani guided guests through foundational movements while sharing the stories behind them. The lesson became an introduction not simply to dance, but to Hawaiian identity. Surfing Hawaii with Duke Kahanamoku Later in the morning we headed into the ocean with Turner Harris of Pro Surf School Hawaii. Positioned directly beside Kaimana Beach Hotel, the school is owned by legendary longboarder Kai Salias, one of Hawaii’s most accomplished surfers and a modern ambassador of Waikiki surf culture. Born and raised in Waikiki, Salias grew up alongside the legendary Waikiki Beach Boys, following in the footsteps of his father, who was also a Beach Boy. His career eventually led him to become the 2018 ISA World Longboard Champion and the 2023 World Surf League Men’s Longboard World Champion, and continues to preserve Waikiki’s surfing traditions with his surf school and longboard company. Turner provided us with long sleeved mesh guards, water shoes, and a brief practice session before making our way to the beach. We paddled out a hundred yards, past the World War II monument to where waves were breaking over the reef, the ocean here never more than chest deep, and perfect for non-swimmers. Watching the waves, Turner made sure we were perfectly positioned on our surfboards,then gave us a strong push, and counting down when we were to elevate to our knees, and stand. On the first few attempts, Tom struggled a bit with balance, while Tristan was a natural, quickly gaining confidence and surfing the waves with ease. Between sets, Turner held our surfboards and shared additional pointers, speaking about the character of the ocean, surfing, and life itself. This helped to keep our minds from overthinking the skill of surfing, and with numerous questions, Turner would calmly say, “Move back an inch, arch your back,” and followed by a push, and three, two, one, and up. Birthplace of Modern Global Surfing We were surfing where once the world-renowned Duke Kahanamoku, who became the father of modern surfing, defined Waikiki as the birthplace of modern global surfing. An honored five-time Olympic medalist, born and raised swimming in Waikiki, he gave surf lessons on Waikiki Beach, and traveled the world popularizing the sport. He died in 1959, and a massive, traditional Hawaiian funeral was held on the sands of Waikiki, his ashes scattered into the ocean. Duke’s statue is on Kuhio Beach, and in August, Hawaii celebrates “Duke’s Day” featuring a week-long Waikiki ocean sports festival. Following Turner’s guidance, we paddled into the same ocean where Kahanamoku and Hawaiian royalty surfed, as Diamond Head rose dramatically in the distance while longboarders glided effortlessly across rolling waves. The experience felt less like a surf lesson and more like a connection to Hawaii’s living history. An Unexpected Wildlife Sanctuary One of the most remarkable aspects of travel and Kaimana Beach is its role in protecting the Hawaiian Monk seal. For years, Monk seal Rocky became a local celebrity by repeatedly selecting Kaimana Beach as a place to give birth and raise her pups despite the area’s popularity. More recently, another female monk seal, Kaiwi, chose Kaimana Beach to deliver a pup in May 2026, and the sight of Kaiwi nursing her pup against the setting of Waikiki and Diamond Head, is extraordinary. I was told that many residents view these births as a symbol that this shoreline remains deeply connected to Hawaii’s natural heritage, despite Honolulu’s growth. For me, few places on the planet offer such an intimate interaction of wildlife, culture, and urban life.
Riding the Waves in an Outrigger Our final day was another meaningful Hawaiian encounter of the coverage, riding the surf in the traditional Outrigger Canoe guided by Kapua Wa’an Experiences. Founded by native Hawaiian waterman Kekoa Kekumano, who also is an actor, playing Kai, a local resort employee, in Season one, in the television series, White Lotus. Kekumano’s program preserves the traditions of the legendary Waikiki Beach Boys through storytelling, paddling, and cultural education. Launching directly from Kaimana Beach, we paddled along the shoreline beneath Diamond Head while learning about ancient Polynesian navigation, Hawaiian voyaging traditions, and the significance of the wa’a in everyday Hawaiian life. Wa’a (Outrigger Canoe) is a sacred living entity, and more than a historical boat. Without the wa’a, the Hawaiian civilization would literally not exist. The outrigger ride combines storytelling, and firsthand participation with an outstanding intensity. Kekoa put us at ease while explaining the components of the canoe, how to get into our seats, the correct skill of paddling, and bailing water. We paddled to a point where the waves were breaking. Kekoa positioned the outrigger and instructed us to increase the paddling pace. I could feel the canoe elevate in the wave, and increase in speed, paddles at rest, while Kekoa guided the canoe into the wave, catching its momentum. It was an absolutely exhilarating experience without having to worry about falling off a surfboard. Diamond Head’s Timeless Presence During the entire trip, Diamond Head was overlooking the beach and our activities, and I felt that no visit to Kaimana Beach Hotel would be complete without visiting Diamond Head State Monument, one of Hawaii’s most recognizable landmarks, encompassing over 475 acres. Formed more than 300,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption, the famed cone crater towers 761 feet above Waikiki and is composed entirely of volcanic rock and rock layers. Reservations are required: the hike is 08 miles up a steep 560-foot elevation gain, dark tunnels, and a 175-step staircase, rated moderately difficult, taking about two hours to the top, or crown, known as Le ahi Peak. Our afternoon hike rewarded us with panoramic views of Koko Crater, located further east in the Hawaii Kai area, rising 1,208 feet in elevation. Looking down from the summit at the Pacific Ocean, Honolulu, the Gold Coast shoreline, and Kaimana Beach, it becomes easy to understand why this stretch of coast has captivated Hawaiian royalty, writers, artists, travelers, and residents for generations. Final Thoughts Kaimana Beach Hotel honors its royal past, embracing Hawaiian culture, and offers travelers exactly what Waikiki once promised, a place where the pace of life can slow to a walk, the ocean becomes your front yard, stories are shared beneath the Hau trees, and where Hawaii’s spirit remains wonderfully alive.
Kaimana Beach Hotel 2863 Kalākaua Avenue Honolulu, Hawaiʻi 96815 808.923.1555 kaimana.com
dine with us. stay with us
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Aloha Lives Here
When you stay at Kaimana, let the aloha spirit guide your day. Take a short stroll to the allures of Waikīkī. Discover the nearby wonders of Diamond Head. Or unwind on one of the island’s most treasured stretches of sand and surf - just steps from your door.
A classic Waikīkī icon since 1963
kaimana.com | 808-923-1555
Secrets & Dreams Playa Esmeralda,Miches Trisha Ventker
Secrets & Dreams Playa Esmeralda, Miches Trisha Ventker
Dominican Republic I’ve found in my travels that many destinations simply offer a vacation, which is certainly okay; however, there are other destinations that will pull you gently into another state of mind, and the newly unveiled, all-inclusive Secrets & Dreams Playa Esmeralda, Miches delivers precisely that, which is an immersive escape where sophisticated luxury, tropical splendor, elevated gastronomy, and personalized service converge in spectacular harmony. The resort offers a new era of elevated Caribbean luxury, and a destination virtually encircled by history, and historical events that could fill a history book with intriguing details. On a media journey with celebrated cosmetologist, makeup artist, and technician, Tiaja Pierre, we experienced the newest additions to the World of Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection, which is two stunning interconnected resorts redefining extravagant travel located in the Dominican Republic. The drive from Punta Cana International Airport is approximately 60 miles north of Punta Cana to Miches, an emerging eco-luxury destination along the southern shores of Samana Bay, Playa Esmeralda, and the Emerald Coast. Worlds away from the hustle of traditional tourist corridors, and a glorious secluded enclave for the resorts and guests. The island, Hispaniola, shares the Dominican Republic with Haiti to the west, and nicely located with shores both on the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The Dominican Republic slightly smaller than West Virginia, a mountainous island nation with Pico Duarte at 10,174 feet above sea level, the highest peak in the entire Caribbean region, while Lake Enriquillo is the largest lake in the Caribbean. It’s also the only country in the world that features an open bible on its national flag, and is an incredible windfall for history buffs. History Chronicle Christopher Columbus, Hispaniola’s first European visitor, landed on the island in 1492, commanding his flagship Santa Maria with 40 able seamen, and in 1496 Santo Domingo, on the south central coast of the Dominican Republic, on the Caribbean side, became the first continuously inhabited European settlement and administrative hub in the Americas. Founded in 1498 by Bartholomew Columbus, brother of Christopher. Zona Colonial, or Old Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with well over 300 historical locations. Within 116 blocks are the New World’s first fortress, first university, first hospital, and the first and oldest existing cathedral in the Americas, Catedral Primada de America. Diego Columbus, son of Christopher Columbus, laid the first stones in 1521 for the Gothic and Spanish Renaissance structure with massive silver-plated doors, all within a vibrant, functioning neighborhood that is highly pedestrian friendly, and an absolute joy to experience with dining options, museums, and one-of-a-kind shopping. It takes visitors back to another era with the Zona defined by a distinct historic border of original 16thcentury defensive stone walls, bastions, and forts. I found the core is packed into roughly 11 square blocks, and one can easily walk from one side of Zona Colonial to the other in 20 minutes. Dominica’s history is a whirlwind of calamity, Dominicans have experienced political and civil disorder, ethnic tensions, booms and busts, and long periods of military rule, including Haitian occupation. The Spanish crown began importing enslaved Africans in 1502 to work in the sugar plantations, and in 1697 Spain ceded the western third of the island to France, which is now Haiti. Haitian forces unified the island, ruling the eastern side until 1844, when the Dominican Republic overthrew Haitian rule, establishing their independence. The country also survived the oppressive dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo (1930-61), and military intervention by the United State (1916-24), a military coup, and a civil war.
Secrets & Dreams Playa Esmeralda, Miches Future Optimism Following decades of shifting political control, the nation in the late 20th century has transitioned into an economic Caribbean powerhouse driven by free trade, a strong middle class, tourism, manufacturing of medical devices and high-tech equipment, the leading global supplier of organic bananas and top grade cocoa, and home to the largest gold mine in Latin America. With baseball the official national sport, the Dominican Republic is a key pipeline for Major League Baseball talent. Some 944 Dominican Republic born players have made it to Major League Baseball, more than any other nation in the world, while operating official baseball training academies. Upon our arrival to Secrets & Dreams Playa Esmeralda, Miches we were greeted by soft ocean breezes, swaying palms, the chatter of birds, and an immediate sense of serenity. Our private airport transfer led by Michael set the warm, effortless, and deeply hospitable tone for the experience ahead, The dynamic duo of Secrets and Dreams resorts encompasses nearly 1,000 suites, each with 500 well-appointed accommodations. Secrets officially opened July 1, 2025, and Dreams, August 1, 2025. I believe this sprawling oceanfront development introduces a bold new chapter for luxury hospitality in Miches, an emerging destination celebrated for pristine beaches and natural beauty. Secrets, Adult-Only Sophistication Our first two evenings we booked the adults-only sanctuary of Secrets Playa Esmeralda in an attractively appointed Preferred Club Junior Suite with splendid ocean views; the sea, with a rippled surface via the offshore breeze, appeared like a framed painting. The suite embodied modern Caribbean elegance—spacious, airy, and meticulously designed with refined neutral tones, and organic textures inspired by the surrounding coastline. Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors opened onto a furnished terrace overlooking the alluring turquoise-tinted Caribbean sea, while the expansive bathroom features a rain shower, thoughtful dual vanities, a beauty station, full-length mirrors, and generous closet space. Preferred Club privileges elevated the experience even further with exclusive lounges, dedicated pools, concierge assistance, and one of the most uplifting aspects of the Preferred Club is the enhanced personalized butler service, which added an exceptional layer of ease and luxury to my report. During our visit, our butler graciously assisted with special requests, dining guidance, resort coordination, and precise touches that made the visit feel seamless. He arranged for us eminent details about the property, and ensured every aspect of our visit flowed effortlessly. For me, the service reflected the attentive hospitality that defines the Secrets Preferred Club experience. Walking through the resort, I found the “Unlimited-Luxury“ perception flawlessly removed the typical friction points of travel, such as no reservations, no wristbands, and no limitations. In place of these, guests enjoy limitless epicurean dining, nicely crafted cocktails, pool and beach service, daily refreshed minibars, 24-hour concierge service, boundless entertainment, and considerate hospitality. It was easy for me to report that Secrets Playa Esmeralda exudes a distinctly refined ambiance tailored for couples and adults seeking serenity. The infinity pools seem to melt directly into the sea, while chic oceanfront lounges, elegant bars, and sophisticated dining venues create an atmosphere that feels intimate yet grand. Continuous Activities and Nightly Entertainment I’ve found in my travels and truly believe what elevates both resorts beyond a traditional all-inclusive experience is the remarkable breadth of activities, entertainment, and immersive experiences offered. Strolling Secrets under a warm sun is where the skin tastes the air and every deep drawn breath is sweet, while the sweeping, lovely dance of the seabirds, high against the sky sets a mood. Days at Secrets unfold smoothly with infinity pools, beachside relaxation, kayaking, snorkeling, paddleboarding, yoga sessions, dance classes, beach volleyball, basketball, and curated cultural activities. For a cooling splash, guests can also access the expansive Dreams waterpark, complete with racer slides, splash zones, and activity pools, which is an unusual perk for an adults-only property. Energy shifts beautifully from serene mornings to lively afternoons filled with poolside games, spirited music, cocktail encounters, and social activities orchestrated by an exceptionally engaging entertainment team.
The afternoon had dropped away leaving a soft, sea scented breeze, while the night was well fallen and perfect to experience a sophisticated celebration of Caribbean nightlife in an open-air theater that hosts everything from live productions, dancers and singers, cultural performances, joyous bands, and piano concerts, themed evenings, beach dance parties, and fire shows beneath a sky filled with blazing stars. Overall, the entertainment felt polished yet approachable, lively without becoming overwhelming, and perfectly aligned with the luxury aesthetic of the resorts. During our visit the atmosphere consistently balanced elegance and fun, allowing guests to choose between vibrant social experiences or all-embracing serenity depending on their mood. I also observed that guests continue the evenings in stylish lounges, enjoying handcrafted cocktails and live music long after dinner concludes. Speaking of familieswho booked at Dreams Playa Esmeralda, their visit becomes even more expansive. The Explorer’s Club for children and Core Zone for teens offer supervised programming that includes games, crafts, sports tournaments, social events, billiards, video games, and even DJ-inspired teen activities. During the day they can choose from volleyball, kayaking, snorkeling, bike rides, trampolines, dance classes, and interactive poolside fun designed for multigenerational enjoyment. An Elevated Introduction to Dominican Cuisine I’ve often written that cuisine embodies the country’s vibrant culture and gastronomic diversity, and at Dona Altagracia, our culinary journey began where Dominican heritage cuisine was reimagined with contemporary sophistication. Most of the Dominican chefs are formerly trained via a state-run technical academy specifically designed to supply talent directly to the country’s luxury tourism regions, and we were under the guidance of Chef Franklyn Astacio, with attentive service from Raydeni, and manager Evenezer. Dinner became an impressive introduction to the flavors and traditions of the Dominican Republic. We began by sharing a Crispy Sancocho Croquette, which is a deeply comforting interpretation of the country’s beloved national stew, crafted with chicken, beef, pork, and root vegetables, complemented by a slice of avocado and native lime emulsion that added brightness, zest, and elegance to the creation. Equally memorable was the Cassava with Avocado Mousse, featuring ancestral crisp cassava bread layered with creamy Hass avocado, cilantro, and fleur de sel, which translates from French as “flower of salt” and is a rare premium sea salt prized by chefs globally, and noted for its complex mineral flavor. Both dishes were rustic and elevated. For lighter fare, the Shrimp and Octopus Salpicon delivered refreshing coastal flavors, carefully marinated in lime and wild oregano with mixed vegetables that highlighted the freshness of the Caribbean sea life. Our entrees continued the culinary storytelling. A platter of fresh-caught Mahi Mahi arrived delicately prepared with a dash of coconut sauce, fried casava, and grilled vegetables, balancing richness with tropical brilliance, while the Cortecito Jumbo Shrimp in a delightfully delicate spiced cream sauce paired with sweet potato, delivered warmth, and comfort. An Innovative Standard for Caribbean Wellness The following day, bright and sunny with a few drifting clouds, we met with Sales Manager Dahiana, for an extensive site tour of both properties. Beyond the impressive development scale of which involves a 15,000-square-foot convention center ideal for luxury events and destination conferences, though what impressed me as a journalist was the intentionality behind every detail, Dreams and Secrets Playa Esmeralda are not merely resorts, but carefully curated experiences, which certainly includes the spa. The adjacent sister resorts share a massive world-class wellness center, “Secrets Spa by Pevonia.”
Secrets & Dreams Playa Esmeralda, Miches Pevonia, a private company based in Daytona Beach, Florida, is a prestigious global professional skincare brand found exclusively in elite resorts and medical spas and esthetician clinics worldwide. The full-service spa, noted among the best in the Caribbean, has various pools, hydrotherapy experiences, tranquil treatment rooms, holistic therapies, aromatherapy,reflexology, and wellness-centered rituals designed to fully immerse guests in rejuvenation. From the moment receptionist Juleisy welcomed us, the atmosphere felt calming and restorative, embodying the wellness-forward philosophy that runs throughout the property. Tiaja enjoyed a soothing massage with therapist Migdalia, while I experienced a deeply restorative, relaxing massage with Yenny. Portofino & Culinary Excellence A fascinating moment in the coverage was learning about the resort’s culinary vision at Portofino restaurant from Executive Chef Alejandro Mayo, who oversees all restaurants at Secrets Playa Esmeralda. Originally from Veracruz on the east coast of Mexico with experience in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, Chef Mayo brings a sophisticated understanding of both regional authenticity and elevated international cuisine. Server, Robert delivered impeccable service, which complemented the refined dining atmosphere. The restaurant perfectly encapsulated the resort’s approach to hospitality, being elegant without pretension, and polished yet warmly inviting. Dreams Playa Esmeralda: Family Luxury Reimagined Later in the day, we transitioned to the family-friendly Dreams Playa Esmeralda, where the atmosphere shifted from serene sophistication to vibrant multigenerational energy. While distinctly more playful, Dreams still maintains a grand sense of luxury. Families enjoy expansive suites, beautifully designed pools, a waterpark, and extensive programming for children and teens. The interconnected nature of the two resorts creates exceptional flexibility. Guests at Secrets enjoy full access to Dreams, which includes restaurants, bars, activities, waterparks, and entertainment venues, creating a seamless luxury ecosystem across the entire Playa Esmeralda complex. Tierra: South American Flavors with Amazonian Influence Happily, another culinary highlight was presented at Tierra, the resort’s South American-inspired restaurant specializing in Amazonian cuisine. Wilson, our attentive server for the evening, guided us through a menu overflowing with bold tropical flavors and artistic presentations. First to arrive was the Grouper Ceviche, delicately prepared in traditional leche de tigre, a citrus based spicy marinade used in traditional Peruvian ceviche, with spicy undertones that awakened the palate with a big smile. A Crispy Fish Chicharron was perfectly crunchy and paired with passion fruit mayonnaise and a pleasing house salad, delivering texture and tropical brightness. Equally refreshing was the Heart of Palm with avocado and mango, topped with a mild lemon vinaigrette that felt light, organic fresh, and distinctly Caribbean. Tiaja and I for the main course selected the Amazon-Style Chicken, marinated with turmeric and spices, served with white rice, a sprinkle of olives, and hard-boiled eggs, all deeply comforting while still refined in execution. Desserts were equally remarkable. A Passion Fruit Semifreddo with cassava oil skillfully balanced creamy and crunchy textures, while the Tropical Pineapple Candy paired with strawberry sorbet offered refreshing sweetness. Perhaps most unique was the Amazonian Tree Milk a Coconut and Natural Vanilla dessert, reminiscent of a tropical tres leches with rich coconut notes and velvety texture. There is an incredible team in the kitchen and the innovative vibe is far reaching.
Beachfront Relaxation and Boundless Dining In this vast world of nature, ambient light reflecting on the seabirds gliding low over the sea, and the ceaseless rhythm of the waves, sometimes energetic, and calmer in the nearby cove, unfold at Playa Esmeralda, and with ideal swimming opportunities. The days extend to beachside lounging, poolside cocktails, and culinary exploration, while the stunning beach, powdery pale sand contrasted against vivid turquoise waters, is postcard attractive. Our final evening, was a casual and quality dining experience at Blue Water Grill, transformed into a Mexican inspired feast. Chef Alby, alongside Wilson, who served as a supervisor, curated another memorable dining memory, We shared the Gobernadora Taco, with sauteed shrimp, cheese, peppers, and bits of onion, followed by Baja-Style tacos layered with breaded fish, purple cabbage, and a tangy citrus dressing. For a few minutes the cuisine took me back to my time in Mexico. The Churrasco Tampiquena offered a hearty and satisfying finale, prepared with a cut of beef, and served with green enchiladas, refried beans, a fried taco, and brown Mexican rice. Dessert arrived with warm churros crowned with caramel sauce, crisp, comforting, and indulgently sweet in traditional Mexican style. It was an outstanding ending and heartfelt thanks to the talented chefs. When You Go My final thoughts on the six hour nonstop United Airlines flight to Denver are that a new luxury destination has emerged, and it’s abundantly clear that Secrets and Dreams Playa Esmeralda are poised to become one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after luxury destinations. The United States Government has a Level Two Warning concerning travel to the Dominican Republic, but the resorts in Miches are safe and booming. Secrets and Dreams is truly exceptional not merely for the scale, architecture, or even the stunning beachfront setting, but the feeling created throughout the visit; the warmth of the staff, the intentional culinary storytelling, carefully curated activities, nightly entertainment beneath the stars, the balance between elegance and ease, and the seamless blending of wellness, family experiences, romance, and elevated hospitality or travelers, like us, craving a more undiscovered side of the Dominican Republic. Playa Esmeralda creates a compelling new vision of Caribbean luxury. Though, perhaps most importantly, it offers something increasingly rare in modern travel: the feeling of discovering somewhere truly special before the rest of the world catches on.
Secrets & Dreams Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa Miches, Dominican Republic 1.866.467.3273 hyattinclusivecollection.com
H E A L T H &
& B E A U T Y
Fall 2026 Makeup Trends Michael Moore Michael Moore has worked in the cosmetics industry since 1988 with brand leaders such as Bobbi Brown Essentials, Chanel, and Estée Lauder. In New York City, he was often seen backstage during fashion week, supporting major designers such as Oscar de la Renta, Bob Mackie, and Vera Wang. Michael’s client list included Oscar winners, First Ladies of the United States, and royalty. Eventually, the quality of the Colorado lifestyle—the healthy, natural atmosphere that inspires his technique—drew him out west, where he opened Moore For Life in Denver’s own center of chic, Cherry Creek North. Today, Michael works regularly with print and television media for photo shoots, fashion content, and special events. His makeup artistry has graced numerous publications such as INStyle and The New York Times, and television shows Oprah and The Today Show.
Fall 2026 Makeup Trends Michael Moore
Fall 2026 makeup trends focus on a “dark luxury” aesthetic. Expect to see soft-focus, blurred complexions, cool blue-gray or warm chocolate eye tones, and luxurious, velvety lip finishes. The overall vibe embraces a polished, dimensional look with earthy tones and deep, moody accents.
Complexion & Skin Cold-weather foundations and base products lean into soft-focus, velvety finishes that still look like real skin. Soft-Focus, Blurred Bases Matte foundations are out. The modern base utilizes moisture-infused skin tints and sheer, buildable coverage that smooths the skin while maintaining a natural finish. Hydrating foundations replace super-dewy summer formulas, controlling shine in the center of the face while maintaining a healthy, radiant glow. A Custom BlendedFoundation is a perfect fix for you. How to Achieve: Use hydrating, concealers for under-eyes and lightly set with a blurring Princess Powder to keep pores minimized against harsh winter winds. The post-workout or brisk-walk flush is a major seasonal staple. It mimics the rosy glow of chilly weather without having to step outside. This year, swap out berry blush tones for cool-toned pink colors. Opt for a pretty bloom of powder for high impact. Hyper-Flushed Cheeks: A major staple, especially using red cream blushes for a naturally pinched-by-the-cold look. Blush is now often draped high up towards the temples for an added lifting effect. The Look: Concentrated, soft-matte or glass-finish blush applied higher up on the cheekbones and even lightly dusted on the nose. How to Achieve: Swap out peach-toned bronzers for cool-toned rosy or berry cream blushes. Liquid blush is a great option for a natural cheeky finish.
Eyes Cool blue-gray tones is also a hot trend. Whether bold or subtle, a cool blue gray is the ultra-chic color trend coming for Fall 2026. Harsh, sharp contouring is fading out, shifting focus to the eyes with dimensional accents and effortless smoky tones. Velvet Mono-Textures: Using monochromatic, velvety textures across the eyes creates a cohesive and softly blurred aesthetic that pairs perfectly with fall wardrobes. How to Achieve: Wearing a single-color wash of shadow, pack on the pigmentand blend it up into the crease or add a small amount along the lash line. A brown, toasted eye shadow is also a top trend for Fall 2026. It manifests as a warm,clay-colored, chocolate-colored, or a whiskey-washed hue. Warm or cool toned? It doesn’t matter! Reach for any single pan of neutral-colored eye shadow that compliments your complexion.
How to Achieve: Use cream shadow pots and a long-wear waterproof gel eyeliner, blending them upward with a brush for a quick, diffused smoky effect.
Lips Creamy lips are back, but ditch the drying, matte liquid lipsticks of the past. Update withluxurious, soft-velvet formulas that look blurred, feel plush, and retain a very subtle,flattering sheen. If fashion taught us anything, it’s that the “clean girl” aesthetic has oftened. It all starts with lipstick. A deep, berry-toned, and romantic lip is dominating everyday fall routines. Oxblood & Deep Berries: Deep, rich shades headline the season, leaning into amoody, nostalgic ‘90s aesthetic. How to Achieve: A “bitten” or gradient lip featuring rich, dark cherry, blackberry, or plum tones.
mooreforlife.com 3035 E. 3rd Ave. Denver, CO 80206 303.484.1857 Tue - Sat, 10am - 6pm
Q About Alysa Paul, President at Facial Aesthetics
Alysa Paul, President of Facial Aesthetics, brings more than 20 years of experience to one of Colorado’s premier medical spas. Since joining the company in 2003, she has worked in nearly every facet of the business—from front desk and aesthetician to trainer, controller and COO—giving her a unique understanding of both her team and the exceptional patient experience Facial Aesthetics is known for. Today, Alysa leads ten Colorado locations with a focus on innovation, personalized treatments and outstanding care. Passionate about creating a welcoming, luxurious experience, she continues to invest in advanced technology, education and her team. Away from work, Alysa treasures time with her family, traveling, reading and snuggling with her fur babies.
A with
Alysa Paul
President at Facial Aesthetics
ranging from sophisticated skin analysis to hormone testing allow us to better understand each patient’s unique needs and build thoughtful, long-term treatment plans around their goals and biology. That shift toward precision and personalization is what I believe will define the next decade of aesthetic medicine.
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Facial Aesthetics has grown from a single practice into one of the region’s most recognized medical aesthetics brands, with nine locations. What inspired your vision, and what do you believe has set Facial Aesthetics apart in such a competitive industry? Facial Aesthetics started as my parents’ single practice, and growing it into nine locations has meant staying true to what they built it on: real relationships between providers and patients. In an industry that can feel transactional, we’ve stayed focused on listening first and treating second. I think what sets us apart is that we never lost that founding mindset even as we scaled. Every location operates with the same clinical standards and the same philosophy that good care starts with understanding what a patient actually wants, not what’s trending.
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You’ve been described as a pioneer in the med spa industry. How has the world of aesthetic medicine evolved over the years, and what innovations are you most excited about for today’s patients? When my parents opened the practice, med spas were still a relatively new concept in Colorado. Since then, the industry has evolved tremendously, with greater emphasis on clinical expertise, advanced technology and highly personalized care. What excites me most is that we’re no longer working from a one-size-fits-all menu. Innovations
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Luxury today is increasingly defined by wellness and confidence rather than extravagance. How do you see medical aesthetics contributing to a person’s overall wellbeing, both physically and emotionally? I’ve never separated how someone looks from how someone feels. When a patient walks out of an appointment feeling more like themselves, that’s not vanity, that’s confidence, and confidence touches every part of a person’s life, from how they show up at work to how they show up in relationships. We see medical aesthetics as part of a broader wellness picture. That’s why we take an inside-out approach to beauty – expanding our offerings into hormone replacement therapy, GLP-1s, peptides and supplements alongside our aesthetic treatments. True well-being is physical and emotional, and we want to support both.
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What advice would you give someone who is considering their first treatment, and how do you help patients create a personalized plan that looks natural and enhances their unique features? My biggest advice is to start with a conversation, not a treatment. Come in with questions rather than a specific request inspired by something you saw online. Our providers are trained to listen closely, understand each patient’s goals and recommend the most thoughtful, conservative approach that will deliver meaningful results. Natural outcomes come from restraint and precision, not from doing as much as possible in a single visit. A trusted provider will tell you
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what you don’t need just as readily as what you do. Every new patient receives a complimentary consultation, including a VISIA skin analysis, to help us develop a personalized treatment plan that feels right for them.
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As the leader of a growing organization with nine locations, how do you maintain a consistent standard of excellence in patient care while fostering innovation across your team? Consistency starts with training and culture, not paperwork. Every provider across our locations goes through the same clinical protocols, and we hold regular training sessions so technique and judgment stay aligned system-wide. At the same time, I try to give our teams room to bring new ideas forward. Innovation in this field often comes from providers who are in the room with patients every day, so we’ve built feedback loops that let good ideas move from one location to all of them quickly.
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Do you give back to the community in any way?
Throughout the year, we host more than 20 events across our clinics that combine seasonal treatment education with engaging experiences featuring local businesses and community partners. Whether we’re providing complimentary treatments, supporting charitable donations or hosting giveaways that raise funds and awareness for local causes, our goal is to show up as an active, thoughtful partner in every community we call home.
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Looking ahead, what trends do you believe will shape the future of aesthetic medicine over the next five to ten years, and how is Facial Aesthetics positioning itself to continue leading the industry?
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I believe we’ll continue to see a shift toward preventive, longevityfocused care rather than treatments that are purely corrective. Patients are starting earlier and viewing aesthetics as part of a thoughtful, long-term approach to their overall health and confidence, rather than simply responding to visible signs of aging. I also expect innovations such as AI-assisted skin analysis and more sophisticated hormone and metabolic testing to become increasingly integrated into the consultation experience. As for Facial Aesthetics, we’re not slowing down. We’re preparing to open our tenth location in Littleton, recently announced our expansion into the Phoenix market and have several additional Colorado locations in the pipeline for next year. My parents built Facial Aesthetics as a single practice, and I’ve had the privilege of watching it grow into a brand that serves patients across the region. Our goal is to thoughtfully expand beyond Colorado while bringing the same standard of care, clinical expertise and patient-first philosophy to every new community we serve—not simply adding locations for the sake of scale.
facialaestheticsinc.com
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MUST HAVES Fall Gift Ideas
MARC JACOBS LEATHER MEDIUM TOTE BAG The Leather Medium Tote bag from Marc Jacobs features tonal embossed branding at the front and back. Fixed top handles and a removable adjustable strap with goldtone hardware complete the look. Two top handles Adjustable, removable strap Interior: one card slot and two slip pockets Dust bag Top zip closure Leather Imported SIZE About 13”W x10.5”H x 6”D Two top handles: about 4.75” drop Adjustable, removable strap:about 27” drop shown in: Argan Oil $498 saksfifthavenue.com
GIFT GUIDE
CHANTECAILLE BIO LIFTING CONCEALER More than a concealer, Bio Lifting Concealer is skincare-powered coverage designed to smooth, lift, brighten, and refresh the delicate under-eye area. The medium, buildable creamy formula delivers a blurred, light-diffusing finish and is available in 21 shades, bringing Chantecaille’s signature performance-driven beauty philosophy to complexion. Infused with a smoothing peptide complex, de-puffing Gentiana Lutea Extract, and Persian Silk Tree Extract to help improve the look of dark circles and fine lines, the formula is clinically tested to immediately reduce the look of wrinkle depth by up to 41%* and reduce the look of wrinkles by up to 59% after eight weeks.* Immediately after application, skin appears 13% smoother and receives a 64% boost in hydration.* Designed to pair effortlessly with Chantecaille’s award-winning Future Skin Gel Foundation and the Blend and Conceal Brush, Bio Lifting Concealer delivers smooth, controlled coverage with a soft, flexible touch for flawless, natural-looking results. Bio Lifting Concealer is cyclic silicone free, microplastic free, fragrance free, phthalate free, paraben free, gluten free, and vegan. $68 chantecaille.com
MUST HAVES Fall Gift Ideas
RHUDE
MEN’S FORMAL VARSITY JACKET Showcasing a classic design pairing a wool body with suede sleeves, Rhude’s Formal Varsity Jacket is accented with striped rib-knit trim at the collar, cuffs, and hem. A cursive logo is embroidered on the chest. Baseball collar, Long sleeves, Side welt pockets, Rib-knit trim, Front snap closure 100% wool, Combo: 100% leather shown in: Mustard White Dry clean Made in Italy Model measurements: 6’2” tall, 40” chest, 31” waist Model is wearing a US size Medium Rhuigi Villaseñor merges luxury techniques with streetwear silhouettes, all born out of the designer’s L.A. studio. His collections are steeped in nostalgic references to classic American iconography, and have found fans among style-conscious musicians and athletes. $2650
saksfifthavenue.com
GIFT GUIDE
OSCAR DE LA RENTA CORDED FLORAL EMBROIDERED HALTERNECK GOWN Oscar de la Renta’s halterneck gown is defined by a sophisticated frame of metallic corded lace. The floor-skimming silhouette features a mix of cut-out petal lace and floral embroidery, transitioning into cascading 3D appliqués and an intricate openwork filigree hem for a sense of fluid, tiered movement. Halterneck Sleeveless Asymmetric hem Back zip closure 100% polyamide Lining: 100% silk Dry clean Made in USA SIZE & FIT Model measurements: 5’10” tall Model is wearing a US size 4Made in Italy shown in: Oyster $14,990
saksfiftheavenue.com
MUST HAVES Fall Gift Ideas
BOARDERIE THE THANKSGIVING LARGE CHEESE & FALLCUTERIE BOARD The Thanksgiving Large Cheese & FALLcuterie Board from Boarderie takes the work out of hosting, arriving fully-arranged and ready to graze with 39 artisan cheeses, meats, and accompaniments, including maple leaf and turkey-shaped cheddars and pumpkin spice malt balls. It ships fresh overnight nationwide making it an effortless centerpiece or an elevated gift for the host who has everything. $249 + FREE overnight delivery nationwide
boarderie.com
GIFT GUIDE
founders: David Wanek & Jeff Bond
WORLD-CLASS CIMENTO WINES Cimento is an exceptional, estate-driven wine project emerging from The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater in Oregon, one of the world’s most singular terroirs. Defined not just by geography but by geology, this AVA is composed of a single soil series of ancient basalt cobblestones, creating wines with a distinctive mineral tension and unmistakable identity. Cimento represents the purest expression of their vision: wines grown and produced exclusively from 100% estate fruit, across more than 220 acres within The Rocks District. 2024 Tenuta Bianca – $95: A remarkably complex Rhône-style field blend led by Piquepoul and Clairette Blanche, offering layered aromatics of jasmine, ripe stone fruit, and saline minerality. The palate is opulent yet balanced, with a long, evolving finish. 2024 Grenache – $225: From the Orselli Estate Vineyard, this wine is both graceful and powerful, with notes of spiced berries, dried lavender, and crushed stone. Silky in texture with a long, structured finish, it is built to evolve beautifully over time. 2023 Syrah – $225: An intensely aromatic and deeply expressive wine, layered with black olive, smoked meat, violets, and cracked pepper. The palate is both savory and refined, with velvety tannins and remarkable length. 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon – $225: A powerful yet nuanced Cabernet from the San Tommaso Estate Vineyard, showing layers of black currant, tobacco, olive, and savory spice. Structured and complex, with a long, evolving finish.
$95 and up
cimentowines.com
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D enver’s leading guide to highly-rated hotels, restaurants and culture
The Brown Palace The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa is aptly named with its palatial atrium aweing guests of all ages. The hotel first opened in 1892 and has kept its historical charm while providing modern and luxurious amenities. A walking tour of the hotel is available to enlighten visitors of the heart and soul that went into its design and highlights special details only visible to a knowledgeable eye. Despite the close proximity to a bustling downtown, guests enjoy the many restaurant options on-site, including afternoon tea time in the stunning atrium, complete with devonshire cream shipped in directly from England, and the culinary mastery offered at the Palace Arms restaurant, served in a room with hand painted wallpaper and surrounded by ancient relics.
brownpalace.com 321 17th Street Denver, CO 80202 (303) 297-3111
HOTELS The Crawford Hotel The Crawford is a truly unique hotel, located in Denver’s Union Station. Designed within the original walls of this historical landmark, which dates back to 1881, guests find themselves enjoying a new room experience at each visit, as no two rooms are the same. The hotel boasts historical yet modern design features, with rooms that feel cozy yet luxurious. Guests looking for a peaceful atmosphere can curl up with a good book in one of the reading nooks while those looking for more excitement need only walk downstairs to The Great Hall. Also known as Denver’s Living Room, The Great Hall features a vibrant array of shops and restaurants with award winning chefs. Whether patrons are enjoying a craft beer from the Terminal Bar or competing in a friendly game of shuffleboard, The Great Hall brings people together, a perfect reflection of the building’s original intention.
thecrawfordhotel.com 1701 Wynkoop Street Denver, CO 80202 (720) 460-3700
D Four Seasons Four Seasons hotels are known for their luxurious accommodations and unmatched customer service, and the Four Seasons Denver is no exception. From the moment guests enter the hotel, they are treated to an experience like no other. Large suites with stunning mountain views, unforgettable meals at the famed EDGE Restaurant & Bar, relaxing treatments at the full-service spa, and delicious cocktails served poolside at the rooftop pool oasis, are just a few of the unique amenities awaiting Four Seasons guests. Its convenient location across from the Denver Center for the Performing Arts complex and just steps away from Larimer Square and the 16th Street Mall, allows guests easy access to shows, shopping, restaurants, sporting activities, and exciting nightlife offered in downtown Denver.
fourseasons.com/denver 1111 14th Street
Denver, CO 80202 (303) 389-3000
HOTELS
The Gaylord of the Rockies Located minutes from Denver International Airport in the idyllic All American City of Aurora, Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center will feature over 1,500 guest rooms including 114 well-appointed suites and over 485,000 square feet of extraordinary meeting and convention space. As a gateway to the Rockies, Gaylord Rockies will offer memorable experiences to its guests with first-class restaurants, a luxurious spa and salon, diverse shops, winding waterways and picture perfect sunset views. Rustic alpine charm and exciting “open-air” activity make this Rocky Mountain Front Range retreat an adventure in itself.
gaylordhotelsnews.com
6700 North Gaylord Rockies Blvd. Aurora, Colorado 80019 (720) 452-6900
The Oxford Hotel The Oxford Hotel, in addition to being one of the most popular luxury hotels in downtown Denver, is the oldest operating hotel. It has seen many enhancements through the years, perfecting the art that is a luxury hotel, while preserving the character and integrity of its history. As a registered landmark on the National Register for Historic Places, and boasting a stunning display of art and historical architecture, it’s no wonder the hotel receives guests from across the globe.
theoxfordhotel.com 1600 17th Street Denver, CO 80202 (303) 628-5400
HOTELS The Ritz-Carlton The Ritz-Carlton Denver, located in the heart of downtown, lives up to its name with quality and modern sophistication incorporated into every inch of the hotel. Special attention to detail is evident throughout and provides guests with a tranquil setting to enjoy a luxurious home away from home. Even the youngest of guests are considered VIP’s and eligible to take part in the Ritz Kids program. A myriad of dining options are available within walking distance of the hotel but many guests enjoy paying tribute to famed Broncos quarterback John Elway, by indulging in the fine dining offered on site at ELWAY’S steakhouse.
ritzcarlton.com/denver 1881 Curtis Street Denver, CO 80202 (303) 312-3800
Acova Owned and operated by restaurant veterans, Sean and Betsy Workman, Acova debuted in the Lower Highlands area of Denver in June of 2018 and was designed to be the neighborhood joint for friends and family. The kitchen creates an eclectic menu for all lifestyles and dietary restrictions and serves lunch, happy hour, dinner and weekend brunch.
acovarestaurantcom 3651 Navajo Street, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 736.2718 Mon - Thurs
11:30 am - 10:00 pm
Fri
11:30 - 11:00 pm
Sat
10:00 am - 11 pm
Sun
10:00 am - 3:00 pm
R E S TA U R AN T S Barolo Grill One of Colorado’s best northern Italian restaurants, Barolo Grill has also been recognized as one of the world’s best restaurants for wine. In 2018 Barolo was honored with both Wine Spectator’s Grand Award and Wine Enthusiasts’ Best 100 Wine Restaurants award. Known for hand crafted modern Piemontese cuisine and knowledgeable, attentive staff, Barolo is the perfect choice for special occasions or a great night out. Their seasonally changing menus highlight items from the staff’s annual pilgrimage to Northern Italy and features locally sourced ingredients from regional farms and artisans.
barologrilldenver.com 3030 East Sixth Avenue, Denver, CO 80206 (303) 393.1040 Dinner
Tues - Thurs
5:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Fri - Sat
5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Sun - Mon
closed
Ash’kara Ash’Kara, a globally inspired restaurant with influences from Israel, the Middle East and Mesopotamia, is a collaborative partnership with the restaurateur team of chef Daniel Asher and Josh Dinar (River and Woods, the forthcoming Tributary Food Hall in Golden and Mother Tongue at Broadway Market) and Culinary Creative Group (Bar Dough, Senor Bear, Morin and the forthcoming Maine Shack). Ash’Kara is located in Denver’s Lower Highlands neighborhood.
ashkaradenver.com 2005 W 33rd Avenue, Denver, CO 80211 (303) 537-4407 Mon - Tues
3:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Wed - Sun
11:00 am - 2:00 pm 3:00 pm - 10 p.m.
photo courtesy of Eater Denver
R E S TA U R AN T S Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse The restaurant features warm dining spaces, with local stone and classic mahogany throughout to create an unparalleled ambiance. Enjoy Denver’s premiere smoking lounge with more than 65 cigars to choose from in our humidor. Located in the prestigious Greenwood Village area, it’s the perfect place to reconnect over an intimate dinner and is one of the best steakhouses in Denver.
delfriscos.com 8100 E Orchard Road, Denver, CO 80111 (303) 796-0100 Lunch
Weekdays
11:30 am - 2 :00 pm
Dinner
Mon - Thurs
5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Fri- Sat
5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Sunday
5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Cocktails
check website
Guard and Grace There’s a reason that Guard and Grace is the first name on people’s lips when asked for a steakhouse recommendation in Denver. Chef and owner Troy Guard wows his patrons with a fine dining experience featuring mouth watering steaks and a delicious raw bar, turning any social gathering into a celebration.
guardandgrace.com 1801 California Street, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 293-8500
Dinner
Sun - Thurs
4:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Fri - Sat
4:00 pm - 10:00 pm
R E S TA U R AN T S Le French Founded by Senegalese French sisters Aminata and Rougui Dia, Le French is a gourmet, casual-chic French bakery and bistro. Le French specializes in high-end pastries and elevated modern Parisian cuisine with global influences, a nod to the sisters’ heritage.
lefrenchdenver.com 4901 S. Newport St. Denver, CO 80237 (720) 710-8963
photo credit Rachel Adams
Tues - Thurs
11:00 am - 9:00 pm
Fri
11:00 am - 10:00 pm
Sat Sun
8:00 am - 10:00 pm 8:00 am - 2:30 pm
Le Bilboquet Reminiscent of a charming French bistro, Le Bilboquet Denver is located in Cherry Creek North within the St. Paul Collection. The restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere paired with simple, classic French cooking - bringing a slice of Parisian café culture to the neighborhood. Le Bilboquet is a natural gathering spot to enjoy a chilled bottle of rosé alfresco or classic bistro fare like croque monsieur paired with a local draft beer. lebilboquetdenver.com
299 St. Paul Street, Denver, CO 80206 (303) 835-9999 Mon - Fri
11:30 am - 9:00 pm
Sat
11:00 am - 10:00 pm
Sun
5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Sat - Sun
10:30 am - 9:00 pm photo credit Emily Teater Photography
R E S TA U R AN T S Spuntino Spuntino Food & Wine claims a “Global Mind, Colorado Body, and Italian Soul” and the statement could not be more true. The owners, a husband and wife team, bring their passion for Italian food and culture to the Highlands region of Denver. Fresh, house-made focaccia, gnocchi, and gelato are enhanced by an extensive wine list and intimate setting.
spuntinodenver.com 2639 W. 32nd Avenue, Denver, CO 80211 (303) 433-0949
Dinner
Happy Hour
Wed
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Thurs - Fri
5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Sat - Sun
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Tues- Sun
5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Tamayo Patterned after Tequileiras in Mexico, Tamayo invites patrons in for delicious small plates and specialty margaritas designed to perfection, inciting conversation and community. This modern take on Mexican cuisine is not found at a typical Mexican restaurant. Served on the terrace while watching a spectacular sunset over the Rocky Mountains, first time visitors are sure to return.
eattamayo.com 1400 Larimer Street, Denver, CO 80202 (720) 946-1433 Lunch
Mon - Fri
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Dinner
Sun - Thurs
5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Fri - Sat
5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Brunch
Sat - Sun
10:30 am - 2:30 pm
Happy Hour
Daily at the tequila bar & lounge
2:00 pm - 6:00 pm
R E S TA U R AN T S The Corner Office and Martini Bar The Corner Office, located in downtown Denver, opened in 2008 by restaurateur Peter Karpinski of Sage Restaurant Group. The Corn0er Office is where enjoying great food and cocktails is your only assignment Loosen up, kick back and slide into prime time with colleagues, friends or someone special. Designed with a modern eye for comfort and good times, The Corner Office features a bustling bar, energetic dining rooms, communal table and private event rooms.
thecornerofficedenver.com 1401 Curtis Street, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 825-6500 Mon - Thurs
6:00 am - 11:00 pm
Fri-
6:00 am - 12:00 am
Saturday
7:00 am - 12:00 am
Sunday
7 :00am - 11 :00 pm
Toro In the tradition of Central and South American convivial dining culture, Toro Denver features a ceviche bar, small plates, and family-style entrees, plus, hand-muddled cocktails and local beer and wine. Toro features authentic Latin ingredients, international flavors, and artful dishes at their Cherry Creek Denver restaurant.
torodenver.com 150 Clayton Lane, Ste B, Denver, CO 80206 (303) 253-3000 Brunch
Sat - Sun
10:30 am - 3:00 pm
Dinner
Mon - Thurs
4:00 pm - 10:00pm
Fri & Sun
5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Sat
5:00 pm- 11:00 pm
Mon -Fri
6:00 am - 10:00 am
Sat - Sun
6:30 am - 10:00 am
Mon - Sun
3:00 pm - 5 :00 pm
Breakfast
Happy Hour
R E S TA U R AN T S uchi Denver Uchi Denver is a renowned contemporary Japanese restaurant located in the heart of Denver, offering a unique culinary experience with its creative fusion of traditional flavors and modern techniques. Known for its innovative sushi, sashimi, and hot dishes, Uchi Denver has gained a reputation for impeccable quality and a chic, inviting atmosphere, making it a must-visit for those seeking a sophisticated dining experience in the Mile High City. uchi.uchirestaurants.com/location/denver/
2500 Lawrence Street Denver, CO 80205 (303) 444-1922 Mon -Sun
4:00 pm - 10:00pm
B Hidden Gems:
Denver’s
Best
Brunches
Atomic Cowboy: home of Denver Biscuit Co. & Fat Sully’s NY Pizza Much like the mashup of sci-fi and westerns, Atomic Cowboy is a cultural mashup of ideas & experiences, food & drink, late night & early morning, north & south. A place for anyone looking to pair good times with really, really good food. We don’t ever put labels or restrictions on who we are or what we offer, because truth be told, we don’t care much for rules. theatomiccowboy.com Check website for several locations (720) 845-1673 Brunch
everyday
closes 12 am
Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches Brown Palace Perked in an elegant corner of The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, Ellyngton’s is a stylishly appointed breakfast and lunchroom that offers a classy Sunday Brunch. With an extensive selection of exquisite menu items – guests can relish entrees like the prime rib quiche or the cured salmon toast. Patrons will get a taste of the hotel’s rich 130-year history by dining among the ornate décor and 19th century structures. . brownpalace.com
321 17th Street, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 297-3111
Brunch at Ellyngton’s
Sun
10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Hilton Denver Inverness Set against the backdrop of the picturesque Rocky Mountains, Hilton Denver Inverness’ Champagne Sunday brunch features over a 100 offerings each week. A local favorite, the Sunday brunch is hosted in The Garden Terrace and offers an omelet station; shellfish display, including shucked oysters; smoked salmon; snow crab legs; bay scallops; and more. Additionally, a wide display of mini desserts and weekly rotating dessert flambe is available. Prices start at $64.95 per person and $32 for children ages 6-12 (guests under five are complimentary).
theclubatinverness.com/garden-terrace
200 Inverness Drive West, Englewood, CO 80112 303-397-6411
Brunch
Sun
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches Tamayo Tamayo’s Bottomless Margarita Brunch is everything you want and everything you need going into fall and winter brunch dates with friends. The free-flowing small plates and brunch cocktails are offered every Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Enjoy unlimited small plates featuring delectable favorites like huevos rancheros, carnitas tacos and tres leches paired with mimosas, margaritas and Bloody Marias. Bottomless Food & Drink $55 - Bottomless Food Only $40.
eattamayo.com
1400 Larimer Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 (720) 946-1433 Brunch
Sat - Sun
10:30 am - 3:00 pm
Toro Denver is a city built on brunch and Toro’s brunch menu is a pioneer in pairing breakfast favorites with unique cultural cuisines from all over the world. Toro’s bottomless brunch is perfect to enjoy with friends and family in their outdoor courtyard that’s hidden within the dining room. Offered Saturday and Sunday with a bottomless food and drink option for $50, this brunch is exclusive but surely one you’ll never forget. Their brunch menu, features exotic dishes with Latin flair like the Zucchini Tiradito, huevos rancheros, shrimp corn enchiladas, churrasco and eggs and quinoa-fried rice. Toro is also introducing a new brunch dessert, which is sure to become a fan favorite: churro bread pudding!
torodenver.com
150 Clayton Lane, Ste B, Denver, CO 80206 (303) 253-3000 Brunch
Sat - Sun
10:30 am - 3:00 pm
Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches Snooze A.M. Eatery Snooze’s new fall menu is here! The new menu includes three brand-new omelets, pumpkin pancakes and beverages and a big change to the lineup of Snooze’s Signature Pancake Flight with the addition of Cinnamon Roll Pancakes. Now, for the first time ever, guests can make reservations to dine at Snooze seven days a week!
snoozeeatery.com
*check website for all other locations 101 N. Broadway, Suite 1, Denver, 80203 ((720) 443-4540
Brunch
Daily
weekdays: 6:30 am - 2:30 pm weekends 6:30 am - 3:30 pm
Jill’s at The St. Julien Although in
Boulder, Jill’s definately is worth the drive from
Denver! Brunch has returned to Jill’s Restaurant on both Saturdays and Sundays, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a new menu from executive chef Rich Byers. The thoughtful menu features fresh,
local and dynamic ingredients with dishes such as a
brioche croque madame with black truffle béchamel, Gruyère, an over-easy egg and River Bear ham, Shrimp & Grits with Gayla’s Georgia grits, and various Benedicts. Plus, brunch-goers can enjoy a build-your-own Tito’s Bloody Mary Bar loaded with mixes, toppings, hot sauce and more, in addition to bottomless mimosas. stjulien.com 900 Walnut St., Boulder, CO 80302 (720) 406-7399 Brunch
Sat - Sun
7:00 am - 3:00 pm
Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches Olive & Finch Olive & Finch, a “fine-casual” eatery from chef Mary Nguyen, will open a new location in Denver Union Station in early 2025. The third location of Olive & Finch will occupy the 1,879 square-foot space that formerly housed Snooze A.M. Eatery inside the iconic transportation hub. Olive & Finch Union Station will be open for dinner, happy hour, lunch, brunch and breakfast. It will offer a more robust selection of grab-and-go options than other Olive & Finch locations for travelers, including its own proprietary line of cold-pressed bottled juices, sandwiches, salads and more. The quick-service restaurant will also have a full craft coffee program, a liquor license and an emphasis on fresh-baked savory pastries and sweet treats.
oliveandfinch.com *check website for all other locations 552 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80218 (303) 832-8663
7 am - 5 pm Daily | 7 days a week
Postino Postino WineCafé’s brunch is a balance of light and indulgent while maintaining the brand’s reputation for lovingly-crafted, approachable and downright delicious offerings. Available at all Colorado locations on Saturdays and Sundays, the brunch menu features a lineup of “table bites” designed for sharing, mains, sides, brunch cocktails and an ever-changing selection of boutique wines. postinowinecafe.com check website for all Postino locations
Brunch
Sat - Sun
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches Urban Farmer Located in Denver’s charming LoDo neighborhood Urban Farmer Steakhouse offers an extensive selection of brunch offerings, including classic dishes like buttermilk pancakes, waffles and French toast, and unique options such as rabbit hash, served with fingerling potato, endive slaw and confit egg yolk. The restaurant also offers a Bloody Mary bar, encouraging guests to concoct their own creations each weekend for just $25. The buffet is complete with 26 different toppings, including olives, celery, pickled vegetables, fresh cucumber, fresh horseradish, togarashi, in-house candied bacon with brown sugar and chili flake, a selection of spices, house made bloody mix and much, much more. For those who prefer bubbles, the mimosa bar features a selection of freshly-squeezed orange, grapefruit and cranberry juices and a selection of up to four berry toppings. urbanfarmersteakhouse.com
1659 Wazee St, Denver CO 80202 (303) 262-6070 Brunch
Sat - Sun
9:00 am - 2:00 pm
A Tsagas Furs and Leathers Designs A Tsagas Furs and Leather Designs is a Leather and Fur Clothing Store in Denver, CO that creates customized designs, offers alterations, and even restyles your old fur and leather pieces into something current and stylish. If you’re looking for edgy fashions made of leather or fur, visit us today or contact us to find out more about our unique services
atsagasdesigns.com 974 S Monaco Pkwy Denver, CO 80224 (720) 941-3877
Monday-Friday
10:00 am- 7:00 pm
Saturday
10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Sunday
CLOSED
L U X E FAV S Gnat Jewelers Today, father and son create a beautiful array of custom jewelry ranging from classic to contemporary. While Gnat Original Design is well known for our exquisite engagement rings, we also craft one-of-a-kind pieces in the entire range of jewelry using precious metals, fine gemstones and certified diamonds.
gnatjewelers.com 250 Columbine Street Suite 130 Denver, CO 80206 (303) 355-5050 Monday
11:00 am- 5:00 pm
Tues - Fri
11:00 am - 6:00 pm
Saturday
10:00 am- 6:00 pm
Moore For Life Michael Moore has worked in the cosmetics industry since 1988 with brand leaders such as Bobbi Brown Essentials, Chanel, and Estée Lauder. In New York City, he was often seen backstage during fashion week, supporting major designers such as Oscar de la Renta, Bob Mackie, and Vera Wang. Michael’s client list included Oscar winners, First Ladies of the United States, and royalty. Eventually, the quality of the Colorado lifestyle—the healthy, natural atmosphere that inspires his technique— drew him out west, where he opened Moore For Life in Denver’s own center of chic, Cherry Creek North.
mooreforlife.com 3035 East 3rd Avenue Denver, CO 80206 (303) 484-1857 Tues- Saturday
10 am - 6 pm
L U X E FAV S Hermes A family company whose craftspeople make, often by hand and always with love , bags and belts, diaries and dishes, scarves and shoes, perfumes and purses, ties and travelling furniture, as well as gloves, hats, watches, jewelery and clothes.
hermes.com Cherry Creek Shoping Center 3000 E. First Avenue, Space P-206 Denver, CO 80206 (303) 388-0700
Tues-Saturday
11:00 am- 7:00 pm
Sunday
CLOSED
D Denver Art Museum The Denver Art Museum continues to wow visitors daily with its extensive display of world-class art, featuring painting and sculpture disciplines, modern and contemporary art, photography, textile art, and other representations from around the world. Temporary exhibitions provide a constant source of new art to view and appreciate. Special activities and games for kids are incorporated into the museum, allowing for an engaging and enlightening experience for all ages.
denverartmuseum.org
100 W. 14th Avenue Parkway, Denver, CO 80204 (720) 865-5000
Mon - Thurs
10am - 5pm
Fri
10am - 8pm
Sat- Sun
10am - 5pm
Denver Center for the Performing Arts The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) is the largest non-profit theatre organization in the country. From Broadway tours including performances such as Phantom of the Opera, Rent, Les Miserables, and Wicked, to more intimate theatres featuring comedy shows and other events, and education for all levels of thespian talent, the DCPA offers something for everyone.
denvercenter.org/
1101 13th Street, Denver, CO 80204
Administrative offices: (303) 893-4100 Main Box Office: (303) 893-4100 Mon - Sun
Closed major holidays
10am - 8pm
Denver Botanic Gardens The Denver Botanic Gardens offers visitors an escape to a tranquil, 24-acre floral oasis. It features endless trails to meander while surrounded by a stunning display of natural beauty, showcasing local plants as well as plants from around the world. Many enjoy stopping in at the Offshoots Cafe for a coffee and croissant before continuing their journey. Families enjoy the Mordecai Children’s Garden, a rooftop garden designed for kids, providing them with a safe space to explore and connect with nature.
botanicgardens.org 1007 York Street, Denver, CO 80206 (720) 865-3500 Mon - Sun
9am - 5pm
C U LT U R E Downtown Aquarium The Downtown Aquarium is truly an underwater adventure with exhibits featuring creatures in multiple habitats across the globe. From the desert to the rainforest and everything in between, visitors of all ages will marvel at the beauty of this underwater life. Aquarium visits are enhanced by dining at the aquarium restaurant where delicious meals are served with a view of a 50,000 gallon aquarium containing tropical fish, sharks, and even a mermaid or two.
aquariumrestaurants.com/downtownaquariumdenver 700 Water Street, Denver, CO 80211 (303) 561-4450 Sun-Thurs
10am - 9pm
Fri-Sat
10am - 9:30pm
Denver Museum of Nature & Science The DMNS provides visitors with multiple exhibits to explore and perform hands-on activities. Visit the Health exhibit to test your strength and view your self-portrait from 50 years in the future. Explore the Space Odyssey exhibit and experiment with the impacts of water, air, and magnets. Walk through the Wildlife dioramas to experience the magnificent size of a bear. The Discovery Zone was specially designed for small children and gives them the opportunity to expand the use of their fives senses within a safe environment. Museum visitors also enjoy the many shows offered at the IMAX and Planetarium. dmns.org/ 2001 Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO 80205 (303) 370-6000 Museum
Mon - Sun
9am - 5pm
except Dec 25) Shop Dock Hours
Mon - Sun
9am - 5pm 8am - 2:30pm
C U LT U R E
photo courtesy of The Ritz Carlton
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