Castro 8/4/21 Castro 8/4/21

Van Gogh Alive Delivers A Unique Immersive Experience Like No Other

Van Gogh Alive at The Stanley Marketplace (Photo: Robert Castro)

Starry Night is the whimsical, expressive painting and one of the recognized pieces of art in modern times. The painting depicts swirls and vibrancy, a very emotional and surrealist perspective of a night sky. Van Gogh invites viewers to dive into his imagination and find unusual beauty in everyday things. Unfortunately, viewing experiences of the Starry Night used to be limited to the painting hanging on a museum wall in Amsterdam.

Van Gogh Alive has changed this and brought this painting to life with its traveling exhibit. A Starry Night and Van Gogh’s art collection is no longer confined to its picture frames. It moves across rooms and walls, allowing viewers to get one step closer to Van Gogh’s imagination.

The exhibit is currently hosted at The Stanley Marketplace here in Denver and it does not disappoint. It made us wonder, “why is all art not celebrated in this way?” and “do most gallery curators even know what they are doing?”

The exhibit takes us on a journey through the art of Vincent Van Gogh with a unique timeline filled with art and quotes from the Dutch artist. With his works projected on walls, the colors and shapes come to life as they flow through different pieces of his era. As you walk into the dark room the walls are alive with bright colors and accompanied by music that creates the holistic experience Van Gogh wished for his viewers.

The exhibit concludes in a room full of sunflowers, vividly reminiscent of some of Van Gogh’s favorite subjects. Influencers delight!! The room is a dream come true as sunflowers adorn the floor and ceiling while being reflected by a 360 degree mirror putting you right at the center of it all.

The exhibit is put on by The Denver Center for Performing Arts and runs until September 26th. Tickets for specific time slots can be purchased here. Health and safety measures are put into place so be sure to checkout their website for more information.

Words: Abbe Glasser

Images: Robert Castro

Van Gogh’s “The Bedroom” is one of the highlights from this exhibit. (Photo: Robert Castro)

Castro 8/3/21 Castro 8/3/21

Meow Wolf Denver Prepares For Its Debut Coming September 17th

Meow Wolf Denver (Photo Credit: Kate Russell)

One of the most anticipated events of 2021 is finally happening. Take it from us, you won’t want to miss out on this one.

Meow Wolf, an immersive arts and entertainment company, announced today the highly-anticipated theme and opening date for its third permanent installation: Convergence Station will be coming to Denver September 17, with tickets on sale today at meow.wf/denver-tix.

Convergence Station is the first stop on a quantum journey of exploration and discovery as passengers traverse new worlds, and like all Meow Wolf locations, labyrinthine mysteries beckon from its vibrant walls, portals, and wormholes.

Twenty-five years ago, a freak cosmic event merged four worlds from different universes, erasing the memories of all residents and spawning the mystifying disappearances of four women. The Quantum Department of Transportation serves as the gateway to these diverse worlds: kaleidoscopic cathedrals, Corinthian catacombs, lush alien habitats, and dazzling and gritty cityscapes. In this hotbed of interplanetary cohabitation, memories serve as both currency and the key to unlocking the story behind the women's disappearances and cause of the convergence--as do multimedia clues that reveal themselves to all of the senses.

“Denver’s art scene is active and vibrant, making it the perfect place for our next exhibition,” said Chadney Everett, Executive Creative Director of Meow Wolf Denver. “Convergence Station is Meow Wolf’s third permanent immersive experience, and it will truly change the way you look at art. This exhibition is unlike anything you’ve ever seen...from The Swamp to The Cathedral - there’s a strong narrative to be uncovered should you choose, alongside truly mind-bending art from the many talented creatives that have worked so hard to bring the vision to life. We can’t wait for everyone to explore.”

Meow Wolf has worked with 110+ Colorado-based collaborating artists and more than 200 internal artists for over three years to bring the 79 unique projects within Convergence Station to life. These muralists, sculptors, fiber artists, and technologists to name a few have come together to create a one-of-a-kind installation that will leave visitors appreciating what it really means to be immersed in a narrative. Notable collaborating artists working on this project include Kalyn Heffernan, Christopher Nelson, Everything is Terrible!, Molina Speaks, Sofie Birkin, along with Moment Factory and many others.

Meow Wolf Denver (Photo Credit: Kennedy Cottrell)

An evolving hive of creativity, Meow Wolf has been creating experiences that challenge the perception of reality, with three locations to explore in Santa Fe, Las Vegas, and soon Denver. Backed by top creators like Games of Thrones’ George R.R. Martin, Meow Wolf is recognized globally as a leader in the immersive space and was ranked on Fast Company's 2020 list of the ‘World’s Most Innovative Companies’, and awarded the #1 spot for Live Events. Following the success of their flagship location in Santa Fe, the arts and entertainment company launched their second permanent exhibition in Las Vegas in February this year which was an instant success, selling 517,000 tickets to date.

Opening on September 17th, Convergence Station will be open from 10:00 am until 10:00 pm Sunday through Thursday and from 10:00 am until 12:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays. Hours are subject to change.

Tickets are available for pre-purchase for $45 for General Admission ($40 Children / Seniors / Military), and $35 for Colorado Residents. Visitors are required to pre-book a time slot for entry.

Castro 7/20/21 Castro 7/20/21

Owners of Formulary 55 to Open New Café in Pueblo

There’s a new café opening in Pueblo and it’s worth the trip. Introducing Blackbox, located at 1437 Court Street, serving coffee, breakfast, lunch, and brunch each week from Tuesday to Saturday. Dreamed up by personal care and home products brand Formulary 55 Founder & CEO Cordelia Smith-Hill and her husband, also Formulary 55’s COO, Anthony Hill, along with Anthony’s son and chef, Ryan Hill, together they aim to bring delicious, smartly sourced food and drink to Pueblo locals and visitors in a modern environment.

The 1,179 square foot space, originally a gas and service station, was completely gutted and remodeled from the ground-up, with the exception of the original south windows and roll-up garage doors, which now serve as key design features. Other features include an original interior mural by Denver artist Daniel Levison, an expansive, fully heated patio, which, weather-permitting, will be open year-round, and an on-site 200 square foot kitchen garden where vegetables and herbs will be grown. The interiors, which Cordelia Smith-Hill describes as “industrial with a graphic edge,” were a collaboration between herself and her husband. Taking a cue from Formulary 55’s signature color palette, Blackbox’s black and white furnishings are accented with gleaming brass fixtures.

When it came to designing the menu, Chef Ryan Hill approached it through the lens of accessibility. With experience working for acclaimed chefs in Seattle, Washington, his breakfast, lunch, and brunch menus will offer modern comfort food, and will rotate seasonally with organic ingredients from Colorado purveyors including Springside Cheese, Boulder Sausage Company, and Bay’s Meat Market. National purveyors include Nueske’s Meats and Wholly Wholesome. The Blackbox menu will consist of a hearty array of breakfast pies, toasts, soups, sandwiches, salads, waffles, and skillets, all made-to-order. Standouts from the menu include the Bacon & Egg Skillet, Chorizo & Onion Breakfast Pie, Avocado & Greens Toast, Jambon-Beurre Sandwich, along with daily made-from-scratch soups. Vegan and gluten free options will also be available.

Masterfully made baguettes, croissants, and a variety of French pastries from The French Kitchen in neighboring Colorado Springs will complement Chef Ryan Hill’s food menu. A selection of housemade scones (both sweet and savory), bundt cakes, muffins, cupcakes, biscotti, and cookies made by Blackbox Chef Assistant Zoë Madeen will also be available daily. The Nutella Cinnamon Roll is destined to be a fan favorite.

We know a café is judged by its coffee—and Blackbox’s menu will be robust. From a traditional French Press with single origin coffee to cortados, lattes, and mochas, Pueblo native and Lead Barista Gianna Carleo will craft each and every drink to the customer’s heart’s content, with the help of Colorado based coffee roasters Salto Coffee Works and Novo Coffee. Milk used by Blackbox is sourced locally and mylks including almond and oat will also be available. Non-coffee drinks include teas, Italian sodas, and more.

Blackbox will open to the public on July 10, 2021. It will be open year-round Tuesday to Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Breakfast will be served Tuesday to Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Brunch will be served all day on Saturdays. Coffee drinks are priced from $3 and food items from $3. For more information, please visit www.blackboxprovisions.com.

Castro 7/17/21 Castro 7/17/21

I Scream, You Scream, Lowry Screams For Gelato

I Scream Gelato, the Colorado based dessert restaurant, is set to open their newest location in the Lowry neighborhood of Denver on July 15.

The gourmet gelato shop, with locations in both Frisco and Breckenridge, Colo., puts a new twist on the classic Italian dessert. Serving traditional gelato flavors like vanilla and hazelnut alongside eccentrically delicious flavors like donut and cotton candy, I Scream Gelato has a little something for everybody.

I Scream Gelato has “over 100 archived flavors and features 32 flavors at a time in-shop,” said store manager Ben Paningbatan. The rotating menu offers no room for disappointment and includes vegan, gluten-free and nut-free options. Guests are welcomed to unlimited samples of the unique flavors before making that ever so difficult choice of what flavor to enjoy. To provide maximum freshness each batch of gelato is only available in the shop for no more than 24 hours, making each returning trip feel like the very first time again. “There are three chefs working on-site making the gelato daily,” Paningbaton said. The shop's menu also features a variety of other artisanal desserts including intricate milkshakes, gelato smoothies, bubble waffle cones and an assortment of espresso beverages with espresso provided by Whiskey Barrel Coffee, another local establishment.

The newest location welcomes guests into what owners Nadav Abergel and Yuval Fuchs describe as, “an authentic gelato experience,” with an Instagram worthy floral-wall that is brightly illuminated by a radiant pink neon sign reading the shop's name. Guests are met with a spacious interior ample for indoor seating. The soft-pink walls paired with contrasting green plants help create an environment that would feel wrong not to enjoy a sweet treat in.

I Scream Gelato is located at 63 Quebec St. and will be open daily from 10 a.m to 9 p.m.

Words and images by Patrick Haney

Castro 6/30/21 Castro 6/30/21

Lighter and Brighter in Every Way, EDGE Steakhouse Reopens After Seven Month Closure

What was once a notorious boys club, emerges a sleek and modern space with Chef Jessica Biederman at the forefront. Biederman kept EDGE’s heavy hitters – including the meat locker – but increased the breadth of the menu. Now the menu offers a fresh raw bar, an incomparable selection of game, beef and fish, and appetizers ranging from bacon wrapped scallops (A MUST), mushroom sliders, and a crab grilled sandwich.

Not only has the menu been enlightened, but the Four Seasons space itself has also taken on a new beginning; one that attracts a younger clientele while still soaring far above expectations for their classic clientele. EDGE has expanded their space to house three bars in addition to their redesigned dining room which also features three private dining areas. One of the three, the Butcher’s Block, is glass-walled and offers the ultimate peek into the kitchen. Outside of the dining room, EDGE has also created two new bars for even more room to experience the restaurant and bar menu.

EDGE has seemingly found the sweet spot between aligning with their traditional market, but also making strides to usher in a new demographic. The progressive steakhouse will feature a DJ in the lounge area this upcoming Friday, 7/2, opening their doors for new clientele to experience the rejuvenated, refreshed, and modern take on what a steakhouse can, and should be.

Written by Jenna McGoldrick

Castro 6/15/21 Castro 6/15/21

Gruvi Opens First Alcohol Free Tasting Lounge Pop-Up in Denver

Set to open to the public June 18th on South Pearl Street in Washington Park Neighborhood

JUNE 15, 2021 (Denver, CO): Gruvi, a line of non-alcoholic beer and wine, is opening their first alcohol free tasting lounge pop-up in Denver, Colorado. The tasting lounge will open to the public at 3 p.m. on Friday, June 18 with plans to run through the summer.

With Colorado being a brewery mecca, Gruvi aimed to create a tasting lounge meant to emanate your favorite watering hole while offering a casual, boho chic space where you can come catch up with friends, meet the community and enjoy a delicious brew or zero proof cocktail. It is a space for everyone, not just those that remain sober. Gruvi will feature both specialty beers exclusive to the taproom and their full product line-up. Indoor and outdoor seating, games, live music and food trucks will be available. On opening weekend, guests can purchase a limited edition beer glass designed by local Denver artist Olive Moya with all profits donated to Art from Ashes.

“The alcohol-free space is quickly growing and many are starting to explore healthier alternatives to alcohol, but the biggest thing still lacking is sober-centric public spaces for people to socialize without the booze,” says Anika Sawni, Co-Founder of Gruvi. “Grüvi’s mission is to provide a beverage that allows people to be healthy while also staying social. It was pretty much a no-brainer that we wanted to create a pop-up space that pushed the boundaries in what an alcohol free setting could look and feel like. We can be real, intimate, comfortable, sober and still have a great time.”

Gruvi first launched in the summer of 2019 in Denver. Since then, they have expanded to 6 other states, launched 5 new flavors and expanded internationally. Gruvi is currently available in over 1,500 locations across the U.S. and has retailer partnerships with Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, and Total Wine & More. The business grew over 5x in 2020 and is expected to quadruple in 2021 as more consumers seek high quality social beverages without alcohol.

“To date, we've been able to accomplish so much more than we ever thought with our small, but mighty team,” commented Niki Sawni, older brother to Anika and Co-Founder of Gruvi. Our main objectives this year are to continue to grow our Gruvi family by connecting with people that share the same passion we have towards living an alcohol free lifestyle, while continuing to innovate the alcohol free category. We’ll be introducing new products and investing in new exciting technologies. 2021 will be an exciting year for Gruvi.”

The Gruvi Taproom is located at 1455 South Pearl Street Denver, CO 80210. It will be open Thursday and Friday 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.For more information about Gruvi and the Denver taproom, please visit www.getgruvi.com or follow Gruvi on Instagram at @getgruvi.

Castro 5/28/21 Castro 5/28/21

Mythology Releases Limited Edition Foragers Botanical Gin with Denver Botanic Gardens

Wins Double Gold at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Mythology Distillery releases annual Foragers Botanical Gin, a highly sought-after, small batch, limited-edition gin, distilled from botanicals harvested from Denver Botanic Gardens. Winner of the Double Gold at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, The Foragers Botanical Gin will be available starting June 1st with part of the proceeds donated back to The Gardens.

Working together with Denver Botanic Gardens, Mythology has crafted this truly unique to Colorado gin using chamomile, lemon verbena and elderflowers harvested at The Gardens. A dry gin with lemon zest, soft juniper, and fresh-cut flowers on the nose transition to chamomile tea, fresh pine, pink peppercorn spice, and lemon rind on the palate, then finishes with flower petals and orange blossom water. Last year’s release sold out of 500 cases, and the team anticipates it will sell out quicker this year based on the expanded awareness surrounding the release.

“Our partnership with Denver Botanic Gardens started through a conversation with Blake Burger who has been a horticulturist at the Gardens for more than a decade. We’re excited to see this community collaboration have such a loyal following among gin drinkers and the Denver community alike, and look forward to its release as it's requested daily from accounts and customers,” said Scott Yeates, Founder and President of Mythology Distillery. “We are so excited to bring Foragers Botanical Gin back this year, and are honored The Foragers won a Double Gold at one of the most prestigious awards in the world.”

Since 2018, Mythology has been named Colorado’s Top Distillery consecutively, and its whiskey, gin, and vodka have won more than 60 domestic and international awards. Mythology Distillery’s whiskey, gin, and vodka are handcrafted in small batches in Denver, Colorado for people who seek premium whiskey and gin.

Mythology donates part of the proceeds from each bottle sold to Denver Botanic Gardens. Foragers Botanical Gin will be offered for a limited time starting June 1st at liquor stores listed on the Mythology Foragers Gin website: https://www.mythologydistillery.com/gin/foragers-gin

Castro 4/28/21 Castro 4/28/21

More than Muffins and Matcha, Third Culture Offers Sweet Sanctuary for Underrepresented Communities

Located directly behind Uchi on 25th and Larimer, traditional matcha gets a significant upgrade.

Sam Butarbutar, the Mochi Muffin Man as partner and co-owner Wenter Shyu calls him, has brought Japan to Denver in the form of mochi-based pastries and unique matcha drinks. Shyu, the master behind the matcha, honors traditional matcha by sourcing only from Kyoto, but morphs it into something entirely new when either roasted, combined with strawberry lychee, or mixed with Butarbutar’s signature homemade caramel. No surprise, the full pastry menu lineup features the mochi muffin that launched a thousand ships, waffles, daifukus, and will soon offer soft serve for summer. The infamous mochi muffin is primarily made of rice flour making it, yes, gluten free, but also giving it a bouncy texture new to Denver. While matcha and mochi bring new flavors and combinations, the best combination at Third Culture is owners and real-life partners, Butarbutar and Shyu.

Butarbutar and Shyu pay tribute to their ‘third culture’ upbringing in which it didn’t match that of their parents. They pulled deep from those experiences and honored their individual roots, transforming them to represent new beginnings, even if some had rot in the process. Holding back tears, Butarbutar recounts coming out to his family and ultimately losing that relationship, but finding himself a son to Shyu’s mother. Butarbutar recalls baking with his mom and eventually creating the mochi muffin, which now stands as a symbol for inclusion. From where I stand, I see Butarbutar and Shyu standing behind the counter, Lamborghini car wrap as wallpaper, and their cartoon faces on pink bags filled with rainbow stickers. I see two partners standing in a renowned bakery they built from the ground up that they never had as children, and I know that Butarbutar’s tears are happy tears filled with pride. Shyu and Butarbutar have built houses disguised as bakeries and invited everyone into their homes.

Much like a house, everything in Third Culture, even down to the ceramics is either chosen meticulously or even created. Shyu, far more than a matcha-tender, also functioned as the creative designer for the interior spaces. Their famous pink is not only an homage to feminism, but also derived from WWII when pink upside-down triangles were used to identify queer prisoners. Their floor-to-ceiling windows transform light from a moody orange to a dreamy pink, and paint customers in a changing glow. Shyu even curated the music playlist inside, aiming for a “light pride” vibe.

Inside their bakery looks a lot like inside their social media, which also looks a lot like inside Shyu and Butarbutar. When given pushback from customers on why they felt the need to be so politically active on social media and the social justice scene, Shyu comments that they wake up being a political statement: being Asian, being queer, being “gay-as-fuck” – it simply wasn’t an option to stay silent. It’s with that mindset that after a customer commented they didn’t want a rainbow sticker on their to-go box, Butarbutar found one of Third Culture’s core beliefs – “Speak your truth, even if your voice shakes.”

In response to the killing of George Floyd as well as the violence against AAPI communities, Shyu wanted to go further and provide something a little more tangible than donations. Shyu and Butarbutar began putting together safety kits to give out to vulnerable populations, such as AAPI, Black, and LGBTQ+ communities. The safety kits include pepper spray and an extremely loud alarm one can sound if they feel in danger. What first started as a manageable 100-or-so kits eventually turned into thousands and thousands of orders, with almost 5,000 going directly to an elderly home. More information on ways to contribute can be found on Third Culture’s site here.

Butarbutar and Shyu already have impressive plans to open several more locations. “We want to move as fast as possible for others,” Shyu says. Both have taken from their upbringings and either filled gaps for things they lacked or removed burdens they had in surplus. Third Culture has created a space filled with transformative light, mouthwatering pastries and matcha, and an ultimate sense of familial inclusion and kindness.

Written by Jenna McGoldrick

Castro 4/22/21 Castro 4/22/21

Third Culture Grand Opening Links and Resources

Link to Preorder VIP Packages:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/third-culture-bakery-denver-grand-opening-tickets-150832872181?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Details on Safety Kits and Donations:

https://www.shopthirdculturebakery.com

Check back for full review next week!

Castro 4/12/21 Castro 4/12/21

Project Angel Heart Announces 27th Annual Dining Out for Life Event

Denver - April 12, 2021 - Project Angel Heart announced its 27th Annual Dining Out for Life fundraising event will occur April 23 - May 2 in partnership with Visit Denver’s Restaurant Week. This annual event collects contributions from diners to fund the preparation and delivery of medically tailored meals to Coloradans living with life-threatening illnesses. Bank of America is the presenting sponsor and Anthem is the Healthy Dining sponsor of Project Angel Heart’s Dining Out for Life event this year.

“Dining Out for Life brings our community together to make sure neighbors with life-threatening illnesses get the nutrition they need,” said Owen Ryan, president and CEO of Project Angel Heart. “We are grateful to partner with Visit Denver and have the continued support of our generous presenting sponsor, Bank of America.”

Participating in Project Angel Heart’s Dining Out for Life is simple:

While restaurants normally donate a percentage of Dining Out For Life sales, they will not be asked to do so this year due to the challenges that COVID restrictions have presented over the past year. Select participating restaurants will offer ways for customers to donate at checkout. Additionally, Project Angel Heart will rely heavily on online donations from diners. Donations can be made here.

Patrons can show love to the local restaurant community by dining with participating restaurants (takeout, delivery, or in-restaurant) between April 23 and May 2. A list of participating restaurants can be found here.

Join as a volunteer ambassador for a fun and easy, virtual way to provide meals for neighbors in need. Instead of volunteering in restaurants this year, ambassadors will raise funds online to provide meals for neighbors in need and encourage friends and family to support participating restaurants between April 23 and May 2, 2021. Learn more here.

“We are honored to support the Dining Out for Life event for the third consecutive year and help raise critical funds for Project Angel Heart,” said Raju Patel, Denver Market President at Bank of America. “Their mission to improve the health and well-being for people with life-threatening illnesses takes on even greater significance this year when many in our community continue to face challenges caused by the pandemic.”

About Project Angel Heart

Project Angel Heart improves health and well-being for people with life-threatening illnesses by preparing and delivering medically tailored meals and promoting the power of food as medicine. In 2021, the agency is projected to provide more than 550,000 meals, at no cost, to 3,500 Coloradans facing cancer, kidney disease, HIV/AIDS, and other illnesses. For more information, call 303.830.0202 or visit www.projectangelheart.org.

About Bank of America

At Bank of America, we’re guided by a common purpose to help make financial lives better, through the power of every connection. We’re delivering on this through responsible growth with a focus on our environmental, social and governance (ESG) leadership. ESG is embedded across our eight lines of business and reflects how we help fuel the global economy, build trust and credibility, and represent a company that people want to work for, invest in and do business with. It’s demonstrated in the inclusive and supportive workplace we create for our employees, the responsible products and services we offer our clients, and the impact we make around the world in helping local economies thrive. An important part of this work is forming strong partnerships with nonprofits and advocacy groups, such as community, consumer and environmental organizations, to bring together our collective networks and expertise to achieve greater impact. Learn more at about.bankofamerica.com, and connect with us on Twitter (@BofA_News).

About Restaurant Week

VISIT DENVER’s Denver Restaurant Week was originally created to inspire locals to explore Denver’s culinary offerings during slower winter months. This spring, the event will be held April 23 – May 2 featuring specially priced menus from many of the finest restaurants across the metro area. Participating restaurants will create a multi-course dinner based on one of the three available price points – $25, $35 or $45. The program will focus on advocacy for the industry, while keeping the health and safety of the community top of mind.

VISIT DENVER’s Denver Restaurant Week is sponsored by Society Insurance, Open Table, Colorado Restaurant Association-Mile High Chapter, and E&J Gallo Winery featuring Barefoot Cellars, Fleur de Mer, J Vineyards, Louis M. Martini, Whitehaven, and William Hill Estate. Additional sponsors include Westword, 5280 Magazine, CBS4, and Downtown Denver Partnership.

Castro 3/16/21 Castro 3/16/21

St. Patrick's Day Denver 2021

Let us not remember St. Patrick’s Day 2020 — the final week of normalcy for Denver — but look ahead to St. Patrick’s Day 2021, as a light at the end of a very long tunnel. Below are some local happenings celebrating the holiday.

Stanley Marketplace

Wick School of Irish Dance Performance

Irish stepdance is a style of dancing with roots steeped in tradition and recognized as the signature step dance of the Irish culture, celebrated on or around St. Patrick’s Day. Traditional music, extraordinary costumes with hidden meanings and incredibly intricate movements are hallmarks of Irish dancing. This year, you can see these dancers performing at Stanley Marketplace (2501 N. Dallas St., Aurora) as performers from Wick School of Irish Dance perform a St. Patrick's Day pop-up dance performance. If the weather cooperates, they’ll perform outside on the mountain-facing west patio; if cold or snow prevails each performance will take place inside The Hangar at Stanley:

Wednesday, March 17, 4PM to 4:30PM

· Free to attend.

· Masks and social distancing are required at Stanley, both indoors and outdoors.

Stanley Marketplace. Image Provided by Stanley Marketplace.

Elita at Stanley Marketplace

For St. Patrick’s Day, Elita at Stanley Marketplace is offering a traditional Irish hand-pie special with minced meat, ale, green pea and curried veggies. Finish your meal with the special Salted Caramel Pear Cake with cream anglaise from the specialty market and kitchen with a Mediterranean and Latin American flair. Grab a salad, veggie packed side, or hummus bowl to round out your Irish meal.

Mondo Market at Stanley Marketplace

Mondo Market at Stanley Marketplace is offering an Irish take-home meal for 2 or 4 prepared by chefs for heat and eat at home. The 2-course meals include smoked corned beef with mustard braised cabbage, crispy gold potatoes and glazed carrots. Finish the meal with a pile of Irish shortbread cookies (6 cookies for 2 people; 12 cookies for 4 people). Order online; meals are $40 for two or $75 for 4; you can also add on items like a House Cheese Board, side salads and Limoncello Tartufo Gelato for an additional charge.

Steuben’s

Both Steuben’s locations (Uptown and Arvada) are celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with dine in, takeout and delivery menu specials available Wednesday, 3/17 through Sunday, 3/21. Don’t miss the traditional Corned Beef & Cabbage served with roasted potatoes, the creative Irish Nachos with house-made potato chips, corned beef, braised cabbage, red potatoes, ranch, green onions, and cheddar cheese. For beverages, consider the St. Paddy’s Shake with creme de menthe, Irish cream, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream and shortbread cookie. (Option to make it boozy, of course.) For the NA option or the younger set, try the Lucky Green Shake with mint ice cream, fudge sauce, whipped cream and a shortbread cookie.

Whole Sol

Tired of green beer and heavy traditional Irish food on St. Patrick’s Day? Whole Sol has you covered. The two-year old Colorado frozen smoothie superfood bowl concept suggests a yummy and super-green, super-food packed 3-courses on St. Patrick’s Day. Start with an iced or hotMatcha Latte with pure, raw coconut milk and all organic matcha, then grab the I Like You Matcha bowl with the supercharged green base (kale, banana, pineapple, and matcha), topped with coconut, banana, blueberry, & granola. Round out your Irish-inspired green meal with Matcha Bites: simple with dates, pumpkin seeds, coconut and vegan vanilla protein and bright green matcha.

Smok

St. Pat’s is usually all about the corned beef, but don’t forget the other cut of brined beef: pastrami. Chef/Owner Bill Espiricueta at Smōk (3330 Brighton Blvd., Denver) is offering a special for St. Patrick’s Day: his tender Pastrami Reuben, served on Reunion rye bread with swiss cheese, his own thousand island dressing and sauerkraut. Bill’s pastrami is on special because it’s an intensive creation, the result of a seven day cure and a 16-hour smoke. Smok’s Pastrami Reubens will be available starting Weds 3/17 and through the weekend as supplies last. Irish whiskey cocktail specials will be on offer as well for a bit o’ the Irish; visit them online or call 720-452-2487 to find out more.

Castro 2/25/21 Castro 2/25/21

Mythology Distillery Releases ‘Best Friend Bourbon’ and Donates 10% of Sales to Mountain Pet Rescue

It’s no surprise around the office that we love booze and we love puppies. When you combine the two, well it’s just the perfect pairing.

Mythology Distillery, named Best Colorado distillery, launches Best Friend Bourbon with a community giveback program. The inspiration to produce Best Friend Bourbon is to craft a uniquely layered Bourbon by blending straight bourbons with different mash bills and maturities. Enjoy neat, on the rocks, or in whiskey forward cocktails like an old-fashioned or manhattan.

“Spending time with our dogs, slowing down the pace of life with a glass of whiskey, and living in the moment inspired the story of Best Friend Bourbon. This ideology is captured on our bottle with a story of a farmer and his dog reflecting on each day with good company,” said Mythology’s Founder, Scott Yeates, who enjoys spending time with his two rescue pups, including Whiskey, who was adopted from Mountain Pet Rescue last year. Mythology will be donating 10% of tasting room sales of bottles of Best Friend Bourbon to Mountain Pet Rescue to support finding good homes for other loving best friends.

By sourcing a 15 year Kentucky Bourbon, Mythology is able to incorporate a lasting richness of vanilla and tobacco that's a rare find in craft whiskey. The 15 year Bourbon compliments younger high-rye Bourbons aged two to five years that provide wildflower honey and warm cornbread on the nose, giving way to honeycomb upfront on the pallet that transitions gentle cinnamon and toasted almonds.

Since 2018 Mythology is recognized as Colorado’s Top Distillery consecutively, and its whiskey, gin, and vodka have won more than 50 domestic and international awards. Mythology Distillery’s whiskey, gin, and vodka are handcrafted in small batches in Denver, Colorado, for people who seek premium whiskey and gin. “Our passion is to craft unique and layered spirits and for friends and family to enjoy a glass of exceptional whiskey or cocktails while sharing stories of travels and adventure. Our philosophy is that we each form our own Mythology through travel, connecting with others, and experiences. It’s based on this that we named our brand Mythology.” - Scott Yeates, Founder, Mythology Distillery.

“We are a foster-based rescue in Grand County, CO that focuses on rescuing active, energetic “mountain” dogs by working with overcrowded shelters in and outside of Colorado,” said Sybil Miller of Mountain Pet Rescue. “We are thankful to partner with Mythology and help each dog find a perfect home and ensure a healthy and enjoyable relationship.”

Starting today, Mythology will be donating 10% of Best Friend Bourbon's sales to Mountain Pet Rescue when purchasing a bottle directly at the Mythology Distillery tasting room (3622 Tejon Street, Denver, CO 80211).

ABOUT MOUNTAIN PET RESCUE

Mountain Pet Rescue was started in January 2012 to improve the lives of pets in need by providing rescue, foster care, education, training support, and adoption into safe, loving homes. While our adoption fees generally cover the cost of a healthy dog's rescue, it is not unusual for dogs to arrive with unanticipated medical and/or behavioral needs. We depend on fundraisers to support those needs. At 2800 dogs saved, and counting, we have brought joy to countless people as well. To learn more about Mountain Pet Rescue, please visit https://mountainpetrescue.org/.

ABOUT MYTHOLOGY DISTILLERY

On a ski trip in the Alaskan backcountry, three close friends and Colorado natives capped off each day drinking whiskey and cocktails at a local craft distillery while meeting new friends and sharing stories about their wild adventure. Inspired by the Alaska trip, Scott Yeates returned with a passion for starting Mythology Distillery as a brand that invokes conversation and brings the community together. Leveraging years of experience that our production team gained from other successful distilleries, our team has developed a portfolio of products that have won more than 50 awards in 2 years, including best in class, double golds, and gold medals. As Coloradans that value our backyard playground, have implemented sustainable manufacturing processes to do their part in preserving our planet. Learn more at www.mythology distillery.com.

Castro 2/1/21 Castro 2/1/21

Local Game Day Packages

Tis the Sunday to be eating! As the Chiefs take on the Buccaneers, what will you be taking on? Score amazing food and Game Day packages from some of our local favorites.

Smok (3330 Brighton Blvd., Denver) Executive Chef/Owner Bill Espiricueta is a life-long football fan and looking forward to celebrating the biggest game of the year Smok-style with takeout and to-go packages for at-home game-watching. Smok Super Bowl Packages include the following:

12 smoked Smok Hot Wings, with ranch dressing
12 smoked Smok Jerk Dry Rub Wings with blue cheese dressing
Nashville Hot Chicharrones: Smok’s southern fried pork rinds tossed in the Nashville Hot dry rub blend and served with ranch dressing
10 Smok smoked jalapeño poppers, jalapeños stuffed with cheddar cheese, wrapped in bacon, smoked and deep fried. These babies are served with barbecue ranch.
Smok’s Brisket Nachos - brisket, tortilla chips, queso blanco, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, pickled jalapenos, cilantro, green onions and beans

Packages are $50 before tax and gratuity. Smok is also partnering with The Family Jones and adding the option of a ready-to-drink bottle of Family Jones old fashioned or martini for a total of $80. Bottles have around 8 cocktails each. Order up until Thursday, 2/4 at 3:00pm to ensure your package for pick up on 2/7. Please call 720-452-2487 to find out more and reserve your package.

Stop in to Number Thirty Eight (3560 Chestnut Place, Denver) on Super Bowl Sunday to watch the game on the venue’s enormous outdoor 200 square foot big screen on the center stage. Grab a cozy Adirondack chair, 4-person high top or long table on Denver’s largest outdoor patio for the game while eating and drinking from special menus. Number Thirty Eight’s special cocktail for the game is the Rodeo Lemonade, roasted jalapeño blackberry lemonade kicked up with Suerte blanco tequila. Make reservations online or you can call 303-493-6651 to learn more or reserve your spots for the game.

The Wing Alley Super Bowl Package from the Ace Eat Serve team is the Ultimate Tailgate Package. Pre-order here for your big game pick up on February 7. The $82.32 package includes:

24 piece wings: naked wings with sauces on the side including Asian Buffalo, Tiger Sauce, Hidden Alley Ranch, and Blue Cheese
Dim Sum platter:
- Pork Pot Stickers (12 piece) - pork shoulder & belly, napa cabbage, chives, and Chinese ginger mustard
- Brussels Sprouts & Shishitos (2 orders) - togarashi, sesame seeds, lime aioli
- Sichuan Shrimp Wontons (12 piece) - fried shrimp dumplings, crispy shallots, Sichuan chili garlic sauce, and cilantro

Wing Alley teamed up with Aperol to include a “ticket” good for two Aperol Spritzes with every kit, through the month of February.

Pre order and pick up the Steuben’s Super Bowl Tailgate Kit at either Steuben’s Uptown or Steuben’s Arvada location. Super Bowl Tailgate Kit - $100 and Feeds 4-6 includes:

Jalapeño Poppers (6pc) - Monterey Jack & Cheddar Cheese Bacon wrapped Jalapeno Popper, served with Blake St BBQ sauce
Buffalo Wings (12pc) with ranch or blue cheese dressing
House Chips plus onion dip and ranch dip
2 full rack BBQ ribs
Brown Butter Blondies for dessert

A Spice of Life (5541 Central Ave, #272, Boulder) knows all about feeding hungry groups thanks to years of catering and events. This year for the Super Bowl, Spice is offering a Super Bowl Party Box; everything you need to keep guests happy and focused on the game while also saving you time in the kitchen. The box feeds 4-6 guests and includes:

Buffalo Chicken Wings with buffalo sauce, celery and a blue cheese dipping sauce
House-Smoked Pork Ribs with Dan's Famous BBQ sauce
Pork Green Chili served with flour tortillas
Pigs In A Blanket with house-made honey mustard
Assortment of Chips N' Dips with salsa fresca, French Onion Dip, housemade queso with fresh housemade tortilla chips
Housemade Caramel Corn for gametime snacking
Chef's Choice Desserts to finish the party

A Spice of Life is also offering an assortment of prepared Family Meals and après boxes for additional snacking. Boxes will be ready for pickup or delivery on Friday, 2/5; please place orders by Wednesday, 2/3. Visit bringspicehome.square.site or call 303.443.4049 to reserve your box.

Castro 1/28/21 Castro 1/28/21

Postino (9Co) Delivers With A Great Wine And Food Selections

Denver has its fair share of amazing food and wine options to choose from. Even with a pandemic some establishments are thriving under the pulse of amazing service and food and drink selections. The up-an-coming area around 9th and Colorado has seen a resurgence in new restaurants, retail, apartment complexes and more. At the center is the newest Postino (9co), the wine-cafe is the third location in Colorado. Other locations are spread out between Arizona and Texas. We had a chance to indulge in some amazing wine tastings that paired amazingly with their delicious food options.

Hailing from the fine wine regions of Argentina, Espiritu delivered. (Photo: Robert Castro)

With its extensive wine selections (one of the best in Denver) and an amazing array of food board and bruschetta options, the pairings are sure to fulfill your taste palette.

We tried a couple different options including the cheese board that featured three different cheese options, nuts and a delicious quince jam that paired well with the Malbec (smooth and bold) wine bottle we had.

We also tried the Bruschetta option which allowed us to pair four different spreads that included their:

Brie, Apple and Fig spread

Fresh Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil

Sweet N’ Spicy Pepper Jam and Goat Cheese

Ricotta, Dates and Pistachio

Bruschetta pairings to die for. (Photo: Robert Castro)

The ambiance of the restaurant is a perfect mix of classical nostalgia and hip decor (check out their sunglass wall). Ambient lighting sets the mood perfect for anytime, we recommend their 5 ‘Til 5 Every Day Happy Hour, $5 glasses of wine and pitchers of beer ‘til 5 PM. They also have an amazing Board and Bottle special featuring a $25 bottle of wine and bruschetta board on Mondays and Tuesdays after 8 PM.

If you are looking for a quaint place to enjoy amazing wine and food options make sure to visit Postino (9Co).

Castro 1/22/21 Castro 1/22/21

Popongo: The Newest Game Taking The World By Storm

Popongo is a new high-energy sport created by Errol Anderson, who was born and raised in Jamaica and currently resides in Denver, Colorado. The idea of Popongo sparked in the midst of quarantine after being invited to a close friend's small backyard get together. Errol had a realization that there was a desperate need for more options when it comes to social and interactive lawn games. That was until he started jotting down the rules, colors ,and process of how he would invent Popongo into a small notebook.

Popongo can be played indoors or outdoors. All you need is 15 ft of space and one partner, or two players on each team if you choose to compete with two boards rather than one. Popongo is recommended for all ages and is unlike any game available on the market. Popongo keeps participants engaged for hours because of its unique and competitive point system. The primary objective is to outscore the other team and the concept is simple; players take turns tossing foam, golf-sized balls into cups that are placed in the, patent-pending, Popongo platform. The cups have different point values based on their color. Toss the balls into the cups for points, and once you reach the winning points, game over and you get to yell Popongo! Trust us, you will literally want to yell, Popongo!

“Popongo is Jamaican pride in a game. Inspired by my culture, I created Popongo to provide families and friends with a new and more exciting alternative to what is currently available,” said Anderson, the founder and CEO of Popongo. “The Popongo set takes a minute to set up, is suitable for all ages, and you can play it anywhere. We are very excited to bring this game to every outdoor deck, park, poolside, beach, and household's lawn or living room in the New Year. One Love.”

Anderson’s Jamaican heritage influenced the brand colors in the game. Black, Green, and Gold for the Jamaican flag colors. Black for the strength and creativity of the people. Green for the amazing vegetation and Gold for the beautiful bright sun. Red represents mother Africa, and blue represents the amazingly gorgeous skies and ocean waters of the Caribbean.

Popongo is proudly Handcrafted in Denver, CO. Your board will be the only one like it with each board having its own unique wood grain pattern. A single board set retails for $159 USD and comes with a board, 9 cups, and 10 balls. The double board set retails at $299 USD and includes 2 boards, 18 cups, and 10 balls.

Popongo is now available and can be purchased through the website,www.playpopongo.com. We invite you to join the Popongo community on all social media platforms @playpopongo.

Castro 1/22/21 Castro 1/22/21

Alejandro Iñárritu’s, Carne y Arena, at Stanley Marketplace Risks Paralysis for a Powerful Purpose

Experience an immersive VR journey through the life of immigrants at the border until the touring exhibition journeys on.

Denver is the first stop on Carne y Arena’s nationwide tour after the exhibition debuted in Washington D.C. as an eye-opening experience for congresspeople to grapple with real accounts of the violence at the border. Alejandro Iñárritu, known for his masterpieces, The Revenant and Birdman, took the accounts of immigrants from Mexico and Central America and recounted their stories and faces digitally, even down to the clothes they wore. The only thing that isn’t real about the entire experience is the visitor’s presence.

CARNE y ARENA, 2017. A user in the experience. Photo credit: Emmanuel Lubezki

Perhaps the first to ever accomplish such a feat, Iñárritu plants attendees in the middle of the desert with several immigrants to not only show, but to completely submerge those in the journey of immigrants. Starting in what many know as “the freezer,” visitors remove their shoes and socks and sit barefoot on a cold metal bench, waiting for a flashing light to buzz them into the next room. Shoes from real immigrants collected at the border are tossed around the floor and the ideas of what happened to the previous owners rebound off every wall.

After waiting in the freezer, the next door opens into a curtained room with harsh gravel and an attendee is waiting for visitors with full VR equipment and a backpack. As the VR goggles cover eyes, the landscape of the border strains into focus and a group of immigrants come into view and settle; some struggling of dehydration, others carrying their elders. Looking closer at the faces of these real immigrants Iñárritu met, Border Patrol quickly moves in.

Luis, a lawyer, rehearses in a motion capture suit. Credit: © Legendary Photo: Chachi Ramirez

Never have I ever white knuckled a backpack more, clenched my jaw harder, or shook so much I thought they would remove my headset and remind me it wasn’t real. However, that’s the purpose entirely. What a privilege to peek under the VR headset to see my toes planted in red sand under the roof of the Stanley Marketplace in Aurora, Colorado where I stood in a paralyzing simulation. I wasn’t at the border with sweating hands as officers had guns pointed at my head.

Testing to get the right amount of sand on the shoe. The migrants talk about sand being everywhere and in everything. Credit: © Legendary Photo: Chachi Ramirez

After what felt like being submerged underwater, the goggles are removed, tearing away from the pale blue landscape as the final scene. Exiting the gravel floor, visitors come face to face with the same people facing barking dogs, impeding helicopters, and border patrol in the previous reality. Ranging from stories of the search for better lives, to a border patrol officer recounting the pain of watching people die of dehydration, saying “if you have no empathy for those who have made this journey, do not talk to me,” their stories are recounted in Spanish and English.

Carne y Arena is a revolutionary requirement for those looking to gain the slightest form of information, if not empathy for those who come to the United States looking for a better life. This experience will surface physical reactions, monumental to understanding the painful journey of those who gave everything to give even more upon arrival.

Written by Jenna McGoldrick

Castro 12/9/20 Castro 12/9/20

Conscious Cocktail Club Launches Sober-Centric Monthly Subscription Box Designed to Complement Rise in Virtual Dance Party

Explore the Club that takes “a night in” to a whole new level.

Secret Dance Addiction, an online platform that unites sober and sober-curious DJs, artists, creators, dancers, and creatives alike, announced the launch of The Conscious Cocktail Club, a monthly sober-centric subscription box and party experience delivered directly to your doorstep. The first Conscious Cocktail Kit is available for purchase online now for $49.00.

The Secret Dance Addiction and Conscious Cocktail Club were found in order to build a mindful dance community that doesn't require alcohol to participate. Rather than being pressured by the dominant drinking culture illustrated in the music community, consumers will have the choice to put health and connection above intoxicants when it comes to partying.

“When we shift the power we give to intoxicants to our own self, we create a positive change in our everyday life, both on and off the dance floor,” says Ambie Handby, Co-Founder of Secret Dance Addiction. “The opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety, it’s connection, and we believe we will be able to offer genuine connection within our Secret Dance Addiction community and through the Conscious Cocktail Club offerings.”

Each monthly box comes packed with festival-inspired merch, an invite to a secret virtual dance party, and supplies to make two alcohol-free cocktail recipes. Garnishes and how-to tutorials included ($120 Value). New drinks and themes each month. December’s box includes alcohol-free cocktails from Gruvi + DRY Botanical Bubbly, eco-friendly rave goodies, and full access to the Disco House Party on December 12.

With ongoing uncertainties around what the future of nightlife will look like, many people are looking for escapist activities to participate in, but are they always healthy? Paired with the rise of the sober-curious movement, Secret Dance Addiction aims to create the new norm for health-focused partying.

"For me, living to my fullest means empowering myself with healthy options everyday so I can be my best self,” says Mike Handby, Co-Founder of Secret Dance Addiction. “In the ‘old’ DJ and nightlife scene, healthy alternatives were few and far between. We wanted to create something mindful and healthy for ourselves and those around us, and we believe we have done that through SDA and the Conscious Cocktail Club.”

To join the Conscious Cocktail Club, please visit https://www.secretdanceaddiction.com/sda-merch/conscious-cocktail-club-disco-house-party. To RSVP to the Disco House Party with Secret Dance Addiction, click here.

About Secret Dance Addiction

This is where music + mindfulness go to party. Secret Dance Addiction is an online platform that unites sober and sober-curious DJs, artists, creators, dancers, and creatives alike. Explore the future of nightlife with a community that puts health and connection first, with no intoxicants needed. Meet new party people from all over the world, and #partypositive @secretdanceaddiction

Press Release and images provided by Secret Dance Addiction

Castro 11/30/20 Castro 11/30/20

Local by Locals Guide to Supporting Small This Season

We asked and you delivered! Find below our lengthy Local by Locals guide – and keep 'em coming! We will update our list regularly with more local businesses to support this holiday season. Thank you in advance to everyone who has and will contribute to our list and continue to support Denver the best way we know how.

Mint & Serif

Ballmer Peak Distillery IG: @ballmerpeakdistillery Website: https://ballmerpeakdistillery.com

About: Ballmer Peak Distillery is founded and operated by Eric Strom and Austin Adamson. Lifelong friends with a history of creative, ambitious and sometimes crazy ideas that almost get finished. After a spirited conversation in 2014, surrounded by the crisp mountain air of Denver, Colorado and fueled by some delicious whiskey, the two decided to embark on a journey that they would see through to the end. Thus Ballmer Peak Distillery was born. After years of planning, searching and dreaming they decided they’d be in good hands in a cute, stand-alone building in Lakewood, Colorado. Now, Eric and Austin hope to motivate, inspire and fuel the passions and creativity of others by sharing their delicious, quality creations with the world.

Old 121 Brewhouse IG: @old121beer Website: https://old121brewhouse.com

About: Old 121 Brewhouse is a family-owned, community-focused gathering space dedicated to creating craft beverages for the whole community.Old 121 Brewhouse is a family-owned, community-focused gathering space dedicated to creating craft beverages for the whole community. As veterans of the brewing industry, and the craft beer scene in and around Denver in particular, we’ve seen trends come and go. The winds of change are brisk, and often unpredictable. Two things we always knew to be true, and that inform how we’ve built Old 121 Brewhouse are the following:

1. Quality and craftsmanship never go out of style

2. If you work to establish meaningful relationships in your community, you’ll do fine.

We’ve sought to do both at Old 121 Brewhouse. That’s why you won’t find us chasing down retail accounts all across the city, or seeking shelf space in liquor stores. We’re committed to our friends and neighbors in Lakewood, Colorado, but always welcome anyone visiting us from across the city, or across the country.

That’s also why we put just as much care and craft into our non-alcoholic offerings through our in-house line of craft sodas and a partnership with Teakoe, as we do our beer. We want Old 121 Brewhouse to be welcoming to everyone.

We’re proud to be a part of the Lakewood community, and we can’t wait to see you in our taproom.

All Its Own IG: @allittsown_shop Website: http://www.all-its-own.com

About: ALL ITS OWN draws on inspiration from nature and spirit to offer goods that inspire people and help the world be a happier place. This little shop presents an eclectic assortment of over three-dozen local artists, including shop-owner William’s crafts and concrete pots. Drop in for uniquely displayed and low-maintenance houseplants, homemade gifts, sustainable goods, and natural necessities for the home, body, and spirit.

William founded ALL ITS OWN in 2015, as a traveling plant shop. Vending at local artisan markets in the Denver area, he met several other makers and over time the dream to create a space where they could work and sell in community was formed. The ALL ITS OWN storefront, on W. Colfax in the 40 west arts district, is that dream realized.

Solstice Ink IG: @solsticeink_poet Website: solstice ink.com

Raices Brewing IG: @raicesbrewing Website: https://www.raicesbrewing.com

About: Raíces is a Latino owned and operated brewery in CO. It features award winning craft beers, a rotating Latin American food selection and on-going cultural events. Raíces aims to become a reference center for those interested in learning about Latin culture. For Latinos, Raíces is a place where to connect with other Latinos and feel at home surrounded by traditional Latin food, music, culture and great beer. For non-Latinos Raíces is a place where, in addition to having great food, music and beer, people can learn about Latin culture and its richness.

Deli Italia Pizzeria & Market IG: @deliitaliapizzeria Website: https://deliitaliapizzeria.com

About: Chris and Lindsay, both have a passion for food that is made from scratch with a lot of love and high-quality ingredients. The menu features as much sustainable, local, and organic, products as possible, as well as Italian imported products. Focusing on using only the highest quality of ingredients is what makes the delicious and wholesome food that comes from their kitchen. Deli Italia Pizzeria and Market is a place for people to come together and enjoy great food and a wonderful community.

Denver Tails IG: @denvertails

About: Denver Tails is for fur babies and fur owners. If you love to make your dog happy and do something fun for both of you, then this group is for you. We will have events like happy hours, social sports, hikes, dog parks, etc. all year round. All of us will walk away with a new friend. If you don't have a dog but still love these amazing animals and want to join in on our fun, you are welcome to attend!

Bow Wow Chews IG: @bwchews Website: https://www.bowwowchews.com

About: As an Executive Chef I have cooked in some of the best restaurants, worked with some of the toughest chefs and have had the opportunity to create and taste some of the best food Denver has to offer. I am fortunate to have found my passion and turn it into a career. I’ve watched food turn sad people happy and a sick person healthy. The power of food is endless and food should be no different when it comes to our dogs. Dog food can be seasonal, innovative and fresh. This is for you Bailey Boy, I love you.

Mint & Serif IG: @mintandserif Website: https://mintandserif.com

About: The vision was to, as a family, build an inclusive, warm, welcoming and safe space. A space to create, write, read or socialize in. We’re passionate about our community, the arts and supporting local businesses. Thank you for checking us out and we hope to see you soon.

Lung Story Short IG: @lungstoryshort_crafts Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/LungStoryShort

About: Creating and curating unique crafts for you and your loved ones from Colorado!

Allison Rase

3rd Bird Collective Kombucha IG: @3rdbirdkombucha Website: https://3rdbirdcollective.com

About: Using my science background (when not the Doer & Brewer of 3rd Bird, I’m a middle school science teacher), I set out to find flavors that are both delicious and contribute additional health benefits that taste yummy for picky tummies. I look to combine ingredients that play off of each other’s strengths to build a flavor profile that is diverse and functional.

3rd Bird Kombucha is flavored with whole fruits, herbs, and veggies. We never add more sugar during flavoring as we believe that your flock is already sweet enough.

Tobias Micah Krause

Be a Good Person IG: @beagoodperson Website: beagoodperson.com

About: THE MOST BASIC CONCEPT. This brand was developed based on a passion for positivity and a brighter future that we foresee within our society. There are 7.2 billion people on this earth...Out of that many people, how many do you know? Now reflecting back on yourself, what's going to separate you from the rest of the crowd?

IF NOTHING ELSE, BELIEVE THIS…

There are many talented and fortunate people who will never reach their full potential due to their bad habits and pessimistic outlook on life. But there are also many less fortunate people, who strive to be positive and work harder than those that take their skill-set or blessings for granted. Instead of supporting the current trends of negativity, our #1 goal is to remind us all to approach our days with an optimistic, positive, and refreshed outlook. We believe that positive change truly starts with within ourselves, one person at a time.

NOW ASK YOURSELF, ARE YOU DOING EVERYTHING YOU CAN TO BE WHO YOU WANT TO BE?

Amanda

Sendy Sauce Hot Sauce IG: @sendysauce Website: sendysauce.com

Desert Knots CO. IG: @desertknotsco Website: desertknotsco.etsy.com

About: Desert Knots is my passion project. I am obsessed with the boho/artsy aesthetic and strive to create one of a kind earrings at an affordable price.
All of my earrings posts are either sterling silver, 14k gold dipped, or hypoallergenic. ALWAYS nickel-free. I specify post types in my listing details. Please do not hesitate to pop me a message with any questions, or to inquire if you can purchase something in a custom color :) HAPPY SHOPPING!

Cort Roberson

TK’s Surf and Turf Kitchen IG: @tks_surfandturfkitchen Website: https://tks-surf-turf-kitchen.square.site

Lina

Sputnik IG: @sputnikdenver Website: sputnikdenver.com

Ace Eat Serve IG: ace_eat_serve website: aceeatserve.com

Holiday Specials at Ace Eat Serve

Peking Duck Experience

No company holiday party this year? Consider gifting clients, colleagues and close friends a Peking Duck Experience (traditional Beijing style roast duck) from Ace Eat Serve. The Peking Duck Gift Certificates can be purchased online and will be mailed directly to recipients. The meal serves 2-4 guests and includes roasted brussels sprouts, a bottle of Vesta wine, whole duck, mu shu crepes, pickled peppers, leeks, cucumbers, apricot chili sauce and hoisin sauce for $99. Executive Chef Thach Tran and team dedicate almost a full week to prepare this delicious & unique duck experience. Guests can decide when they’d like to dine in or pick up their meal at their convenience.

Goat Witch Goods IG: @goatwitchgoods Website: gooatwitchgoods.com

Roller Bunni IG: @rollerbun_ii Website: etsy.com/shop/rollerbunnii

About: We work hard to bring you quality handmade roller skating accessories. Like a lot of you , we fell head over tails for roller skating and now have decided to venture further into it. Please enjoy our selection of hand crafted items. We also love doing custom orders so if you have any ideas , we’d love to make that happen for you🐰💕🐰

Rosehouse Botanicals IG: @rosehousebotanicals Website: rousehousebotanicals.com

About: We are a community owned Brick & Mortar founded by herbalist Lynn Flanagan-Till in February 2017. The S. Broadway storefront is packed with a curated by ever-changing selection of tropicals, cacti, succulents, air plants, orchids and terrariums. The shop also offers Rosehouse’s hand-crafted botanical line of botanically based goods to nurture the body & soul of you, and your plants!

In 2019 we partnered with Denver’s oldest herb shop, Apoothecary Tinctura, to expand our offerings and bring a wide-ranging selection of medicinal teas, tinctures, elixirs, essential oils, and exclusive green beauty lines into our space.

Metropolis Coffee: IG: @metropolisdenver Website: metropolisdenver.com

About: Metropolis Denver is dedicated to creating a coffee experience that is welcoming, approachable, and reliable. We continually strive to better serve the neighborhoods around us and grow with our expanding mile-high city.

Hi-Dive IG: @hidive_denver Website: hidive.bigcartel.com

Goldmine Vintage IG: @goldminevintage Website: goldminevintage.com

About: We have been bringing Colorado the very best Vintage Clothing and Accessories since 2007. Our first location was in the city of Boulder and have since relocated our space to the Mile High City of Denver. We travel the U.S. looking for the most unique pieces from decades past. We carry a wide array of vintage clothing, accessories, LP's and other gems dating from the Victorian Era through the 90's. We hope you love them as much as we love finding them for you.

The Ten Penny Store IG: @tenpennystore Website: tenpennystore.com

About: A true Denver mom & pop vintage shop! We carefully curate clothing and accessories from the 1940s to the 1960s; all styles and sizes. Find us at 250 N Broadway #110 in Denver, CO!

Meek Vintage IG:@meekvintage Website: https://shopmeek.co

About: Curated vintage and handmade goods, including housewares, vintage clothing, art, jewelry, candles and personal care products.

Ed Garner

Fancy Tiger Crafts IG: @fancytigercrafts Website: fancytigercrafts.com

About: Fancy Tiger Crafts is a revolutionary shop in Denver, Colorado that specializes in craft supplies and classes for the modern crafter. Owners Jaime Jennings and Amber Corcoran's vision is to inspire people to reach their crafting potential through modern and sustainable supplies and quality instruction. We believe that making things by hand makes people feel better and that if more people made things, the world would be a better place.

Casey Connors

El Camino Community Cavern IG: @elcaminotavern

About: At el Camino our mission is to create a unique gathering spot that nourishes both body and soul while enriching our community and supporting a good life for our staff. We are a certified green restaurant, we use locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible, and make all our food from scratch.

We are passionate about our local schools and donate a portion of our proceeds directly to them.

We believe in providing our staff with an opportunity to build a successful future doing something that they love. We intend to show every guest the best experience possible. You are part of our family and we will do whatever we can to make you feel at home. We think we’ve got a pretty good thing going here and we want to share the goodness with you!

Ryan Mahrer

Topo Designs IG: @topodesigns Website: https://topodesigns.com

About: At Topo Designs, we’re rooted in mountain culture and outdoor living, but love exploring cities and world travel. We look to proven classics for inspiration, yet take advantage of innovative technologies to ensure a timeless look with modern functionality. We are uncomplicated and utilitarian, but with a sense of design and style through simplicity. Our goal is to not have to choose a single path—we want to live on both sides of the fence, where life is always greener.

Rosehouse Botanicals

Hope Tank IG: @hopetank Website: https://hopetank.org

About: Hope Tank is an awesome social enterprise (Business for Good) gift store located in Denver’s Baker neighborhood. We sell gifts that give back. Hope Tank opened in February of 2012, and we started off selling handmade products by local artists who joined us in donating a portion of their sales to a charity of their choosing. NOW, we have all kinds of awesome products from companies all over the world that we use to connect our customers to our local nonprofit partners. We also sell products from companies that build giving back into their products, but we vet them carefully, and their impact must be in the United States. Every purchase in the shop will come with a sticker that states which nonprofit we are highlighting, and will have impact in the world and we want that impact to inspire people to action.

Sewn IG: @sewnonline Website: http://www.sewndenver.com

About: The mainstay of SEWN are four designers who work together to create the original handmade aesthetic of the store. We make our own uncommon goods, and we support our designer’s talented work. Their outstanding creativity is the fabric that creates the look and custom feel of SEWN.

Sol Tribe IG: @soltribe Website: https://soltribetattoo.com

About: Sol Tribe is a body art studio committed to offering the safest and cleanest body art available. A modern studio with an ancient feel.

Ella Arnold

Plant Shawty IG: @plant.shawty Website: https://cedarandhyde.com/blogs/journal/plant-shawty

Atost IG: @drinkatost Website: https://atost.co

About: She drank wine, he drank spirits. But they wanted something in the middle they could both enjoy. atost combines the two, blending the luxury of a fine wine with the quality of a craft spirit. Our flavor forward line of American Aperitivos is crafted and bottled using the freshest ingredients at our winery in Golden, Colorado. Shipped straight to your door, our mission is to share more time together and less time apart. Whether you enjoy atost on the rocks, with bubbles, or mixed in your favorite cocktail, raise a glass to those around you and enjoy.

Melissa

A Brighter Wild IG: @abrighterwild Website: https://www.abrighterwild.com

About: I started A Brighter Wild after a powerful dream, and as an outlet for my passion for helping others heal with the tools of Nature and Spirit. What started as a simple blog about my own healing journey soon flourished into a client-focused practice and online apothecary. I'm proud to be a Certified Health Coach, Reiki Master/Teacher, Vitalist Herbalist, and intuitive guide. My own experiences with chronic illness and body shame opened my heart and mind to the world of holistic healing, and I am now devoted to helping other women break free from these challenges too.

Alpine Botanicals IG: @alpine_botanicals Website: https://www.alpinebotanicals.com

About: Alpine Botanicals is a place to learn, heal, connect, & grow. We strive to create a collaborative and supportive space for local healers, artisans, and educators in sustainability & holistic wellness, while providing a safe and nurturing place for visitors and clients.

Although the retail apothecary is the primary component of our project, we are much more than an herbal apothecary. We seek to support the smaller brands first. Those brands that create small batch and hand-crafted products with an absolute commitment to purity and sustainability. Our strict standards mean that you as a shopper can trust that the brands we sell share a core set of values around ecological stewardship, fairness, and compassion. We source from smaller brands and product lines from all over the Rocky Mountain west, supporting our local and bioregional economy and lending exposure to products that we love and want to share with you!

Igadi Ltd. IG: @igadi.ltd Website: https://www.igadiltd.com

About: IgadI is a vertically integrated cannabis company dedicated to creating the ultimate experience by producing high quality cannabis products through transparency and education. We prioritize an innovative, straightforward approach to cannabis by applying scientific knowledge in creating each product while providing a transparent and educational experience to our customers.

Be a Good Person IG: @beagoodperson Website: beagoodperson.com

IF NOTHING ELSE, BELIEVE THIS…

NOW ASK YOURSELF, ARE YOU DOING EVERYTHING YOU CAN TO BE WHO YOU WANT TO BE?

Smith + Canon IG: @smithandcanon Website: https://www.smithcanon.com

About: Smith + Canon sells Gourmet small batch ice cream, fresh roasted espresso, and whole beans.

Drip Denver IG: @dripdenver Website: http://www.dripdenver.com

Emy Reznik

Black Sheep Tea IG: @blacksheepteas.co Website: https://www.blacksheepteas.com

About: Esoteric blends are created with the intention of restoring mind, body and spirit... one sip at a time. Each thoughtfully crafted combination encourages a self-care ritual. Our sachets deliver a heart-warming experience, enabling a deeper relationship with your true being.

Dalton Butler

Eyes Open Project IG: @eyesopen Website: https://www.eyesopenproject.com

About: Eyes Open Project is an inventive retail experience in Denver, Colorado showcasing some of the highest quality fashion, design and lifestyle products, each with its own unique concept but linked by a focus on craftsmanship. By developing projects with independent artists, artisans, and designers from around the world, we are building a global community, locally. Here at Eyes Open Project, our mission is to inspire you by offering products transparently, so you know where each item comes from and by whom they are designed and made. Since our launch in 2018, we've been developing a close relationship with each maker to create a curated selection of brands that share our values of sustainability, conscious consumption, and ethical business practices. We believe in supporting small businesses and hope that you will join us in keeping our eyes open while shopping small instead of shopping blindly in large department stores. ⁠

Editor’s Picks

KREAM Kimchi IG:@kreamkimchico Website: https://kreamkimchi.com

About: KREAM Kimchi began as a project to share kimchi with friends during Covid-19. It's my mom's recipe so it's made with love. When you share what you love with your community, you can make an impact. - Virgil Dickerson

Lawrence and Larimer IG: @lawrenceandlarimer Website: https://www.lawrenceandlarimer.com

Vices IG: @vicesltd Website: https://vicesltd.com

About: Formed in 2013 by two long time sneaker enthusiasts, Vices was created as a resource for exclusive sneakers represented in the online marketplace. By embodying a unique lifestyle rooted in the rich history of footwear, our following and presence in the market continues to grow. We officially opened our first store in March of 2015 in Denver, CO. Thanks to our experience and extensive knowledge of the industry, many consumers turn to us to utilize our expertise and array of services including consignment, buyouts, preordering, shopping, and trading. We are dedicated to providing a premier selection of sought out footwear and goods and we only carry AUTHENTIC products. Stop by the shop or contact us to consign or have your sneakers bought out.

Nectar Cocktails IG: @nectarmobilebar

Pickletown Flower Company IG: @pt.f.co Website: https://pickle.town

About: At Pickletown, we believe flowers are Nature’s art. They draw us into their beauty; engaging our senses with fragrance, color, and texture. Our signature style purposefully highlights each one of these elements. We use blooms ranging from showy and delicate to steady and long-lasting. Our dried product, which is included in every design, can last forever providing beauty long after the fresh blooms have faded.

We search all over the world for the most unique and interesting blooms. During the summer months, we focus our search in Colorado and California. We love our local flower farmers and seek to actively support their businesses. During other times of the year, when domestic flower production is lower, we source from farms across the world. As we continue to grow as a company, we strive more and more to connect with our growers and understand the source of our products.

Perfect Petal Boutique IG: @perfectpetalboutique Website: https://www.theperfectpetal.com

About: The Perfect Petal is redefining small business as Denver’s leading flower shop. With two convenient locations we position ourselves as Denver’s best florist helping you add that finishing touch to your event or occasion.

· We celebrate the novel & unexpected

· We support notable local innovators

· We protect a culture of thoughtfulness

· We honor the creative spirit

· We offer a sincere and vibrant experience

We live for early mornings in our Denver flower shop. That moment when the flower boxes start rolling in from the local growers and the creativity stars flowing. When we open that first box, there is always, ooohs and aaahs, as the day’s fresh offerings are revealed. In spring we see strange and beautiful ranunculus and Dutch tulips and then in the fall we see berries and branches in every warm hue. Each season has never before seen botanicals, even for our team. The second favorite part of the day is when our clients get off work and stop in to see the day’s selection and ask for a luscious wrapped bouquet of our favorites.

Fresh Sends IG: @freshsends Website: https://freshsends.com

About: On a mission to encourage and inspire, daily. We send tangible encouragement through simple arrangements and heartfelt, clever cards that help people feel seen, known, and loved.

Abbott & Wallace IG: @abbotttandwallace Website: https://www.longtuckyspirits.com

About: Abbott and Wallace Distilling is a whiskey and rum distillery redefining what handcrafted can mean. Like the Longmont community itself, “handcrafted” means something different here. Owner-built equipment, locally sourced ingredients, and transparent processing blends with our values of community and family for one-of-a-kind spirits and cocktails. Longtucky is a celebration of Longmont’s rich agricultural history and artisan community. It’s our home and the community that helped create our dreams.

We are slowly and deliberately shifting our name from Longtucky Spirits to Abbott and Wallace. We are making this shift because Abbott and Wallace represents our past and our future while maintaining our family and human roots.

When you decide to honor your family with their names on your company, there comes a certain responsibility to their spirits. We owe it to them, our community and ourselves to make sure what’s behind the label honors as much as what’s printed on it.

Holiday Cocktail Kits:

Cocktail lovers head to Abbott & Wallace Distilling Longmont’s small locally-owned and run distillery known for premium, craft-distilled spirits for an all new Abbott & Wallace Cocktail Kits. The take-and-make-at-home kits are packed in rustic wooden boxes hand made by co-founder HK Wallace from old grain pallets and come with instructions on how to make each cocktail. Kits are the Tango Maureen ($40) with a bottle of A&W’s Fire cinnamon whiskey, rosa de Jamaica, and real mango nectar Jumex; Cherry Bomb with A&W spirit of your choice, Colorado Cherry Co. Bing Cherry juice and a large silicone ice mold ($10 + bottle of your choice spirit); and the Eggnog ($45) with A&W’s Lusca spiced rum and real creamy eggnog from Longmont Dairy farm. Call (720) 545-2017 for more information or to place your order.

Barcelona Wine Bar IG: @barcelonawinebar Website: https://barcelonawinebar.com

Holiday Special: Gift cards can send the wrong impression: they can feel impersonal, lackluster, even unimaginative but this year you can elevate your gift-giving game with a Barcelona Wine Bar Experience. Choose from four in-restaurant “experiences” designed to showcase the best of the restaurant and each including a take-home aspect: the Charcutería Experience, with a charcuterie board, selection of meats and cheeses and a flight of aperitivo wines; the Spanish Wine Experience, with a flight of three wines paired with Chef-selected tapas, a bottle of BarCava and two Barcelona wine glasses; Wine & Tapas Experience, designed for two with two flights each of three wines, six chef-selected tapas, bottle of BarCava and Barcelona wine glasses; and the Paella Experience with four tapas, wine pairings, two paellas and a take-home paella kit including a traditional paella pan, olive oil, rice, spice mix and chef’s paella recipe. Charcutería and Spanish Wine Experience are each $60 and the Wine & Tapas and Paella are $130. Gift cards for the experience are beautifully designed cardstock with gold or silver foil accents for an elegant presentation.

Steuben’s Uptown IG: @steubens_uptown Website: https://www.steubens.com

Holiday Special: Secret Sauce Gift Cards. Gift card for you. Gift card for me. Support local restaurants and take advantage of the Secret Sauce Gift Card promo this holiday season, now through December 31st, 2020, for both Ace Eat Serve and Steuben’s Uptown. Buy a $50 gift card, get an additional $10 gift card, or buy a $200 gift card, get a $40 gift card. Gift cards can be purchased in person at both restaurants or online.

Vesta Wine: 2020 has been a year and we lost a favorite LoDo restaurant, Vesta. However, you can still toast the Vesta memory by purchasing bottles of Vesta Sauvignon Blanc or Vesta Pinot Noir for yourself or a thoughtful local holiday gift. Bottles are $20 each or buy 11, get one free. Pick up at Ace Eat Serve or Steuben’s Uptown. Emailemailus@aceeatserve.com or shop@steubens.com to place a wine order.

Smok IG: @smok_denver Website: https://www.denversmok.com

About: Smok features house smoked meats, share plates, creative sides and sauces in ways that are both nuanced and forthright in flavor, color and texture.

Holiday Special: If you’ve got a barbecue lover on your list, the Smok Holiday Gift Bag from Executive Chef Bill Espiricueta and team is a no-brainer when you can bring Denver’s regionally inspired, elevated barbecue – and swag – home with you. Packed in a rustic Smok bag with tissue and a handwritten note, the gift package includes one long-sleeve Smok t-shirt, one Smok bandana (perfect for masking!), a bottle each of Smok’s coveted in-house Barbecue Sauce and Smok Hot Sauce, a package of Smok Barbecue AND a $50 Smok gift card that can be used for takeout, delivery or on-site dining. All this for $112; call 720-452-2487 to find out more or place your order online.

Stanley Delivers (Stanley Market Place) IG: @ohheystanley Website: https://www.stanleydelivers.com

About: Maybe the most pro-Denver, anti-Amazon thing you can do: StanleyDelivers.com is a brand new option to buy local without leaving home. Think unique gifts, apparel, accessories, home decor, specialty foods, wine & spirits and more through a single website; rather than encouraging shoppers to come to them, Stanley Marketplace will bring the goods to the people. Packages arrive via contactless deliveries made in a Stanley Delivers electric mini-truck, created in partnership with local company Gallery Carts. Live outside the 10 mile delivery range? No problem, Stanley Delivers will ship anywhere in the US, directly from the website. You can purchase items for the foodies in your life like empanadas from Maria Empanada, chocolate truffles from Miette, cheese and charcuterie boards from Mondo Market, cocktail kits from Annette and/or a bottle of champagne from Mr. B’s. Visit Stanley Delivers for more information; you can also call 720-990-6743.

Castro 11/21/20 Castro 11/21/20

Real Estate Disruptor "Homie" Launches Brokerage in Denver

Homie’s client-centric alternative real estate model saves customers thousands

DENVER – November 17, 2020 — Homie, a disruptive real estate company changing the way homes are bought and sold, announced the launch of their brokerage services in the Denver Metro region. Homie is the #1 broker in the state of Utah and has offices in Arizona and Nevada, with plans to grow across the nation.

Homie is a different breed of real estate company, founded with the belief that the use of modern technology, coupled with the expertise of dedicated, local agents is the way of real estate in the future, saving clients thousands on their real estate transactions while simplifying the process.

Homie does not charge a percentage-based commission. Instead, Homie offers sellers a $3,000 flat fee, regardless of the home’s sale price, to market and sell a home. Traditional agents charge up to 6%, and home buying tech companies and iBuyers charge up to 14% of the price of the home. For buyers, Homie offers a client rebate up to $5,000.

“Denver is one of the hottest real estate markets in the country, with homes selling in a median of six days this past October,” said Philip Kranefuss, head of real estate for Homie Colorado. “Buying and selling a home in Denver has never been more competitive. Homie simplifies real estate with a one-stop-shop for our clients, making buying and selling a home easier, more affordable and accessible for all while putting thousands of dollars back in customer’s pockets.”

Homie offers consumers a full suite of real estate services and easy access to their mortgage, title, and insurance services creating a streamlined, use-what-you-need experience without traditional commissions and broker fees. The company, which launched in 2015, has already saved consumers $62 million in real estate commissions and helped clients buy and sell over $1 billion in homes.

“Technology has changed just about every industry, except real estate,” said Melissa Millan, general manager of Homie Colorado. “The outdated legacy real estate model comes at the expense of clients, in hidden commissions and real estate fees. Instead of the typical 6% commission – which equates to approximately $33,000 paid to agents based on the average home sold in Denver - we offer a flat fee of $3,000 for all home sales, putting an average savings of $10,000 back into the pocket of the seller.”

Clients using a Homie agent to buy a home receive up to $5,000 back and have the convenience of reviewing listings and scheduling their showings in the Homie app.

Homie will initially provide real estate services in the Denver Metro region including Arapahoe, Douglas, Jefferson, Adams, Denver, Broomfield, Boulder, Gilpin, Clear Creek, and the southern part of Weld County.

About Homie

Homie is a real estate company changing the way real estate is bought and sold by eliminating high fees and commissions. The company simplified an outdated and overcomplicated process through a combination of technology and expert, full-service agent support. Homie operates in four states, it is the #1 listing brokerage office in Utah and is growing in Arizona, Nevada and Denver. With real estate, home loans, closing services, and insurance, the Homie Tech family is making every aspect of buying and selling a home simple, affordable, and enjoyable. Finally, the way real estate should be. To learn more, visit: www.homie.com/colorado.

Castro 11/6/20 Castro 11/6/20

Acorn Passes Torch to Mexican Concept, Bellota, In Three Month Turnaround

Diamonds are made under pressure.

In the three months since Acorn’s closure – and the three weeks since acquiring executive chef, Manny Barella – the plane that became Bellota was built in the air by the city’s infamous restauranteurs: Bryan Dayton, Steve Redzikowski, and Bill Espiricueta. And to put it lightly, the plane cruises. The Mexican concept gives a nod to its ancestry, while moving forward in a completely new direction. Bellota is cool without being cold; unique without being exclusive; approachable without being intimidating.

Like most budding relationships in times of COVID, this love story began with a DM on a Sunday. Espiricueta reached out to Barella, and by Tuesday they were sharing bottles of mezcal ideating menus for Bellota. Barella, who grew up in Monterrey, Mexico, said he’s always had a Mexican menu in his mind – “I’m constantly updating my notes on my phone for menu ideas.” After stints at Michelin starred restaurants, a year at Frasca, and most recently the sous-chef at Uchi, Manny Barella brings memories of street fairs, old flames, and his mother’s recipes to life in Bellota’s kitchen. As his first head chef role, Espricueta calls their relationship a mentorship, noting that Barella champions the menu with “a passion that exceeds all with a ferocity for the personal aspect of food.”

Both Barella and Espiricueta understand there are no second chances when it comes to opening a restaurant in these times. Luckily, the entire team at Bellota is evolving and adapting daily. Espiricueta says, “We’ve all learned to drop our egos.” No easy feat for chefs, but Barella creates such an environment that everyone gets a say. “I don’t care if it’s the host or whoever, I want feedback from anyone.” If only there were feedback to give..

The menu at Bellota is blindingly delicious; it’s elevated and refined, yet resembles comfort food at the core. Barella has a passion for consistent authenticity in his food, whether it be removing tomatoes from his guacamole as tomatoes are from California, discovering ‘round-about’ ways to get chiles from Oaxaca, or honoring one of the most respected and traditional sauces, mole.

Behind every dish is a story from Barella and subtleties from Espiricueta. Both pulling from their Mexican backgrounds, the menu veers from Denver’s typical taco joints to say the least. Unique dishes such as esquites — a mixture of white corn, crema, lime, charred tortilla aioli, and cotija cheese cooked like risotto— or griddled penal cheese — a plank of cheese with salsa macha, peanut, sesame, white onion, cilantro and lime — litter the menu.

Equally as comparable to the food menu, is the spirit and drink list. Featuring agave centric spirits, Bellota’s cocktails range from house margaritas to frozen rum-chatas. The Mexican City Martini, a crisp drink adorned with a cucumber slice atop, combines rosa tequila (tequila aged in red wine barrels), trakal, chareau aloe liquer and lavender bitter.

Bellota is the restaurant Denver has been craving. Elevated and authentic Mexican food merge with lingering sophistication that radiates from the walls of the revered Acorn.

All images provided by Bellota

Editor’s Note: I have been back three times since my initial visit, and if you don’t get the fried quesadilla you are wrong.