Best of Boulder 2024

• Serving the greater Boulder area for over 40 years

• Punctual & Straight forward pricing

• Award-winning service

• Professional trade technicians

FOR VOTING RE/MAX OF BOULDER BEST REAL ESTATE GROUP

We are grateful to have earned your trust for the past 12 years! Having served Boulder County since 1977, you can count on RE/MAX of Boulder to represent your needs with unparalleled professionalism, expertise and integrity.

Hey Boulder,

We’re counting on composters like you to help us make healthy soils full of life and nutrients for our local ecosystem. Healthy soil holds onto water, absorbs carbon, increases biodiversity and supports our food systems. These are all things we need to fight climate change. But, we have a problem.

COMPOST BREAKDO WN

Our region’s only commercial compost processor has been finding tons (literally) of non-compostable items in our residential and commercial compost. Without a way to sort compostable materials from non-compostable ones, they are sending compost trucks straight to the landfill.

So here’s the plan. We’ve streamlined guidelines to help people compost correctly. Only food and plants should go in your bin. Are you in?

Pollutants from your home travel through the storm drainage system to local waterways. Learn how you can protect water quality at www.KeepitCleanPartnership.org.

Eben G. Fine Park

Boulder Creek

Eben G. Fine Park

Lavern M Johnson Park

Dickens Farm Nature Area

North St. Vrain Creek

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

There are more than 40,000 businesses in Boulder County; some 8,000 in the city of Boulder alone. While the Boulder Weekly staff likes to think we’re plugged in, there are simply too many bars, restaurants, accountants, hair salons and gyms for us to recommend the best of absolutely everything.

Luckily, we don’t have to: You, dear readers, do it for us. This year, more than 150,000 votes were cast for Best of Boulder — the most ever! (At least that we have on record.)

We’re impressed that thousands of people feel motivated to participate in this totally voluntary, somewhat arbitrary contest. You clearly have a deep connection to Boulder County’s many hyper-local, often independent and/or family-run businesses.

Did you know that 96% of companies in Boulder are small businesses? (That is, they have fewer than 50 employees.) And 78% have fewer than 10 workers.

While it can feel tricky to shout out the bourgeoisie in an era of late-stage capitalism and corporate destruction of our social and natural environment, we’ll always show love to small, local businesses. Maybe it’s more important now because of all those things, so when you do choose to spend your stretched-thin dollars, you have community-vetted recommendations for the very best burgers, beers and barber shops in town.

BEST OF BOULDER Index

FOOD

DRINK

OVERALL RESTAURANT BLACKBELLY

1606 Conestoga St., Boulder

Blackbelly is beloved by our voters because it best represents what “Boulder cuisine” can be. It has also been recognized with the most prestigious international honors a restaurant can earn: recommended status and the Green Star from Michelin, and recogni-

tion of Kelly Kawachi, Blackbelly’s head butcher, as Michelin’s top Colorado culinary professional. The Boulder location was recently renovated, expanding the restaurant’s market area offering wine, house-baked breads and pastries, espresso drinks and the famous breakfast burritos.

Silver: Flagstaff House

Bronze: Jax Fish House

Write-in: Farra

NEW RESTAURANT JUST BE KITCHEN

2500 30th St., Boulder

Whatever you think “healthy” food is, at Just BE Kitchen that definition includes chicken and dumplings with carrots in chicken gravy and a salted caramel brownie trifle. Everything on the menu is gluten-free, including the grass-fed burgers. The wraps, soups, salads and curry are all clearly labeled as egg free, keto, nut-free or vegan. All-day breakfast features a burrito that stuffs eggs, sausage, Cheddar Wiz and sweet potatoes inside an almond flour tortilla with pork or vegan green chile.

Silver: Farra

Bronze: Stella’s Cucina

FOOD TRUCK MCDEVITT TACO SUPPLY

4800 Baseline Road, Suite C 110, Boulder

3550 Frontier Ave. (Sanitas Brewing), Boulder

McDevitt Taco Supply started in 2011 as a little cart on the Pearl Street Mall. The taco tradition continues with a brick-and-mortar location, carts at events and music festivals and a permanent stall on the patio at Sanitas Brewery. The made-for-beer menu

includes McDevitt’s chicken wings, nachos, Mexican street corn, green chile mac and cheese plus a lineup of corn tortilla-wrapped tacos.

Silver: Los Dos Bros

Bronze: La Pupusa Loca

Write-in: Falafayette

PLACE TO EAT OUTDOORS

CHAUTAUQUA DINING HALL

900 Baseline Road, Boulder

It’s not hard to understand why the landmark Chautauqua Dining Hall was our readers’ top choice for al fresco dining. So many locals and visitors have experienced a blissed-out brunch on the eatery’s majestic wraparound porch. Summer diners gaze out on Chautauqua’s tranquil, tree-lined green expanse while they enjoy Coloradofocused dishes from the same team behind Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant and the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse. Be aware that weekend brunch on the porch is so in-demand that diners arrive extra-early to secure a prime table with a view.

Silver: Acreage by Stem Ciders

Bronze: Rayback Collective

Write-in: Corrida

Chef Jude at Just BE Kitchen. Credit: David Harwi Photography

PLACE TO GO ON A FIRST DATE

BOULDER DUSHANBE TEA HOUSE

1770 13th St., Boulder

There are so many cool things to talk about on a first date at the 25-year-old Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse that you might forget how nervous you are. For starters, there is the eye-catching décor: ornate hand-carved painted Tajik columns, a fragrant, rose-filled patio garden. An international menu ranges from samosas and char siu bao to chicken karaage. If you think you’ll have a lot in common, linger longer over British afternoon tea at North America’s only authentic Persian teahouse.

Silver: Rayback Collective

Bronze: Jax Fish House

Write-in: Barchetta

RESTAURANT DESSERT THE HUCKLEBERRY

700 Main St., Louisville

They say initial impressions mean the most. The first thing you see when you walk into the Huckleberry are glass display cases jammed with desserts. Your

eye catches sight of fruit pies, cookies, pastries and muffins. No matter what you order from the extensive menu, it is hard to resist topping off the meal with something sweet. Will it be a slice of carrot cake, triple chocolate layer cake, raspberry poppyseed cake or peach huckleberry pie? Make it a la mode, of course.

Silver: Flagstaff House Restaurant

Bronze: Boulder Cork

Write-in: Gemini

RESTAURANT SERVICE FLAGSTAFF HOUSE RESTAURANT

1138 Flagstaff Road, Boulder

Many restaurants offer fine food and a nice ambience, but truly exceptional service is a rarity. Service is the shining element that elevates each dining experience at the Flagstaff House with professional, friendly and knowledgeable servers. They can tell you all about chef Chris Royster’s cuisine and a cellar full of the world’s best wines.

Silver: Frasca Food & Wine

Bronze: Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery

Write-in: Farra

FOOD DELIVERY

COSMO’S PIZZA

3117 28th St., Boulder

659 30th St., Boulder

520 W. South Boulder Road, Lafayette

There was a time when delivery in Boulder meant pizza or Chinese food. Now, even though dozens of cuisines are at your doorstep, our readers still gave their votes to a golden oldie. Cosmo’s has been satisfying appetites at home since the first location opened on the Hill in 2001. There’s nothing like popping open that hot box containing a supreme, Greek veggie, Hawaiian or meat lovers pie. You must get a pint of Cosmo’s famous spicy ranch to dip the crusts.

Silver: Snarf’s Sandwiches

Bronze: Abo’s Pizza

Write-in: Peckish

TAKE OUT

SNARF’S

Multiple locations

We think Snarf’s annual domination of this Best of Boulder category comes down to immediate gratification of our cravings. Easy online ordering and cus-

tomization makes takeout a breeze from the Boulder-born restaurant chain, especially if you know and love one particular fully loaded sandwich. We alternate between the classic Italian on a toasted bun with signature giardinera, or the McSnarf — roast beef, American cheese, 1000 island dressing and no sesame seeds on the bun.

Silver: Aloy Thai

Bronze: Busaba

Write-in: Falafayette

KID FRIENDLY MOUNTAIN SUN PUBS AND BREWERIES

Mountain Sun: 1535 Pearl St., Boulder

Southern Sun and Under the Sun: 627 S. Broadway, Boulder

Longs Peak Pub and Taphouse: 600 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont

We are fairly certain that no 4-year-olds participated in Best of Boulder voting, so we assume their parents gave Mountain Sun this nod of approval. This local institution goes the extra mile to make kids feel at home with coloring books, crayons and games and rapidly delivered pizza, grilled cheese and chicken tenders. That allows Mom and Dad to relax with an ale and a burger.

Boulder Dushanbee Tea House. Credit: Will Matuska Snarf’s. Courtesy: Snarf’s

• Attorney Rosenthal worked for two of the biggest auto insurance companies in the world and knows exactly how they work, exactly how they think, and precisely how to beat them at their own game.

• Attorney Rosenthal, an expert level negotiator with industry wide relationships, gets the vast majority of cases favorably settled without the need for trial.

• Avvo, the largest legal directory in the world, gave Attorney Rosenthal more 5-star reviews than any personal injury law firm in the state.

Silver: Lucky Pie Pizza and Taphouse

Bronze: Walnut Cafe and Southside Walnut Cafe

LATE NIGHT WORLD FAMOUS DARK HORSE BAR & GRILL

2922 Baseline Road, Boulder

Several generations of locals and CU graduates are breathing a collective sigh of relief. News that developers planned to raze the Dark Horse prompted fans to protest at a public meeting. The plan now is to build a new Dark Horse on the property featuring all the decorative “artifacts.” No worries. You have at least two years to grab a burger, fries and a draft at last call before they take the old place down.

Silver: Cosmo’s Pizza

Bronze: Illegal Pete’s

BUSINESS LUNCH ROSETTA HALL

1109 Walnut St., Boulder

Lunch has slowly made a comeback in Boulder. The same challenge remains: Where can we dine downtown at noon and make everybody happy? Readers gave Rosetta Hall their votes because the Walnut Street institution offers so many high-quality choices in one room. The rotating food stalls may very well be different by the time you read this, but in the past have featured Middle Eastern, Italian, Thai, American, Chinese, Latin American, izakaya-style Japanese and a bakery.

Silver: Brasserie Ten Ten

Bronze: The Kitchen American Bistro

Write-in: Gemini

CATERING BLACKBELLY

1606 Conestoga St., Boulder

Blackbelly has become famous for its fine dinners, breakfast burritos and a top-notch butcher shop, but chef

Rosetta Hall. Credit: David Harwi Photography

Serious Personal Injury • Auto Crashes • MILLIONS and MILLIONS in settlements and jury verdicts

• Attorney Rosenthal worked for two of the biggest auto insurance companies in the world and knows exactly how they work, exactly how they think, and precisely how to beat them at their own game.

• Attorney Rosenthal, an expert level negotiator with industry wide relationships, gets the vast majority of cases favorably settled without the need for trial.

• Avvo, the largest legal directory in the world, gave Attorney Rosenthal more 5-star reviews than any personal injury law firm in the state.

• Our Primary Referral source is happy clients.

Food BEST OF BOULDER

Hosea Rosenberg started it as a catering company in 2011. Blackbelly caters everything from weddings and birthdays to business events. The service can be white tablecloth fancy or a gathering around a smoker enjoying Rosenberg’s favorite New Mexican dishes.

Silver: McDevitt Taco Supply

Bronze: A Spice of Life Catering

Write-in: Falafayette

FINE DINING FLAGSTAFF HOUSE

1138 Flagstaff Road, Boulder

Honestly, we forget most restaurant meals shortly after we eat them. When Boulder diners want to recall and savor every detail of a dinner experience, the special occasion destination is the Flagstaff House Restaurant. From the pampering service to the mountainside view and a 6,000-bottle wine cellar, this

landmark is dressed to impress. The menu spotlights luxe ingredients like wagyu beef and caviar.

Silver: OAK at Fourteenth Bronze: Black Cat

Write-in: Stella’s Cucina

ORGANIC RESTAURANT FLOWER CHILD

2580 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder

Boulder’s older resident flower children from the 1960s still chuckle about the name of this chain eatery, but they also head there for lunch. It’s rare to find a customizable menu featuring organic ingredients in bowls, salads, wraps suitable for Paleo, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free diners. Flower Child’s sustainable beverages range from organic wines to kombucha.

Silver: Leaf Vegetarian

Bronze: Bramble & Hare

Write-in: Just BE Kitchen

GLUTEN-FREE MENU FLOWER CHILD

2580 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder

Finding a place that meets all your friends’ particular diet needs can make going out for dinner a genuine challenge. Flower Child is in the business of making it easier. The big menu is packed with bowls, salads and wraps all prepared gluten-free including ginger miso crunch salad, chicken enchiladas and the popular Glow Bowl.

Silver: Leaf Vegetarian

Bronze: Tangerine

Write-in: Just BE Kitchen

Flower Child. Credit: Laura Mariani Photography

Blackbelly. Courtesy: Blackbelly

Photos by Casey Wilson

VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY FLOWER CHILD

2580 Arapahoe Ave., Suite 110, Boulder

It’s not hard to find vegetarian dishes on local restaurant menus. The challenge is having several interesting meatless choices at one eatery. Flower Child meets the moment with a customizable menu packed with options. These range from avocado toast with a soft egg to an Italian chopped salad. The Mother Earth bowl embraces grains, sweet potato, portobello and more.

Silver: Leaf Vegetarian

Bronze: Modern Market

Write-in: Falafayette

APPETIZERS/TAPAS DAGABI CUCINA

3970 Broadway, Unit 101, Boulder

Long before there were small plates, charcuterie boards and tasting menus, the Spanish had mastered the art of the happy hour snack. Spanish-born chef Antonio Rullo maintains a full menu of hot and cold tapas at Dagabi Cucina. Appetites get piqued by chicken and serrano ham croquetas (fritters) and shrimp sautéed in spicy garlic sauce. Among the top tapas are steamed mussels in tomato red chile broth and sautéed greens with shallots and feta cheese.

Silver: Gemini

Bronze: McDevitt Taco Supply

Write-in: Farra

BURGER

MOUNTAIN SUN PUBS AND BREWERIES

Multiple locations

It’s not a burger joint, but Mountain Sun Pubs wins this category consistently. Their simple secret is always taking burgers seriously. They start with a 1/3pound patty of freshly ground Colorado beef or bison, grill it to order and serve it on a better bun. Personalization includes cheese choices and signature toppings. The patty piece de resistance is Mountain Sun’s Junk Burger, a gloriously messy joy layered with bacon, cheese, sautéed mushrooms and onions, and roasted garlic mayo.

Silver: World Famous Dark Horse

Bronze: Snarfburger

Write-in: Jungle

VEGGIE BURGER

MOUNTAIN SUN PUBS AND BREWERIES

Multiple locations

Besides a multitude of brews and nonalcoholic beverages and many meaty options, Mountain Sun offers burger lovers tasty meatless alternatives. A grilled Beyond Burger or vegan black bean patty is dished with lettuce, tomatoes and onion on a gluten-free ciabatta roll. Then the fun starts. Get it topped with cheese from blue to Swiss, spread with pesto or mustard and crowned with avocado, caramelized onions and roasted poblano chilies.

Silver: Meta Burger

Bronze: Leaf Vegetarian

Mountain Sun Pubs and Breweries. Credit: David Harwi Photography

BAGEL MOE’S BROADWAY BAGEL

Multiple locations

Moe’s Broadway Bagel has owned our Best Bagel category for years. Our readers love the endless variety starting with more than a dozen bagels including cranberry walnut, Italian (everything), pumpernickel and jalapeno. Add cream cheese options like bacon horseradish, maple walnut and sundried tomato. Sandwich must-haves range from the Manhattan layered with lox and plain cream cheese to the Sunshine Daydream: turkey, garlic and herb cream cheese. Beyond bagels, the menu includes Moe’s made-toorder burrito stuffed with eggs, sausage, potatoes, red salsa and cheese smothered in green chile.

Silver: Big Daddy Bagels

Bronze: WoodGrain Bagel and Deli

BURRITO

ILLEGAL PETE’S

1447 Pearl St., Boulder

1124 13th St., Boulder

657 South Broadway, Boulder

Illegal Pete’s mission since its first spot opened on the Hill in 1995 has been to

dish the best fast-casual, Mission-style burritos in town. At Illegal Pete’s, warm tortillas are wrapped around diners’ particular choices. Will it be grilled chicken, steak, barbacoa, Mexican Coke carnitas or fajita veggies?

Cilantro-lime white rice or Spanishstyle brown rice? Black or pinto beans? Customize with sauces, salsas and toppings. The same fillings and salsas are available in the form of bowls, salads, nachos and tacos. By the time you’re reading this, their newest location may be open at the Table Mesa shopping center.

Silver: Efrain’s

Bronze: Santiago’s Mexican Restaurant

Write-in: Just BE Kitchen

PANCAKE/WAFFLE SNOOZE: AN A.M. EATERY

1617 Pearl St., Boulder

While some a.m. eateries plate the same old rubbery flapjacks made from a mix, Snooze celebrates scratchmade pancakes in multiple variations. Fans can order a flight of pancakes, choosing from among blueberry Danish, pineapple upside down, sweet potato and strawberry shortcake. Gluten-free and vegan cakes are available along with real Vermont maple

syrup. The menu also features French toast, shrimp and grits, eggs Benedict and breakfast tacos.

Silver: Walnut Cafe

Bronze: Tangerine

AMERICAN RESTAURANT

MOUNTAIN SUN PUBS AND BREWERIES

Multiple locations

Mountain Sun truly is an American restaurant and brewery. The menu boasts classics like burgers, burritos, fries, BLT sandwiches, mac and cheese and beer. Frankly, all those items are immigrants from other lands. Maybe what makes Mountain Sun all-American is the welcoming, family-friendly approach it takes to its employees and customers. Also, Mountain Sun Pubs resolutely objects to the banking system by only accepting cash and checks — no credit or debit cards. (Though that policy has been somewhat loosened since COVID.)

Silver: World Famous Dark Horse

Bronze: Blackbelly Market

Write-in: Peckish

ASIAN FUSION JAPANGO

1136 Pearl St., Boulder

Japango is much-loved by fans for its classic sushi and Japanese dishes, yet the menu has a taste of fusion. For starters, crisply fried Brussels sprouts are dished with aged soy sauce and shichimi togarashi seasoning. Wasabi dressing perks up potstickers stuffed with non-traditional lobster. East-meetsWest in Japango’s tempura-fried serrano chiles stuffed with spicy tuna and cream cheese and drizzled with sweet eel sauce, mayo and sriracha. Green tea crème brulee and yuzu panna cotta bring it all together.

Silver: Aloy Thai Bronze: Busaba

BAKERY

MOXIE BREAD CO.

4593 N. Broadway, Boulder

641 Main St., Louisville

442 High St., Lyons

Moxie Bread Co. has devoted itself to producing breads and baked goods worth appreciating since the bakery was founded by the late Andy Clark. Whether for ciabatta rolls, sweet buttery kouign-amann or crusty Algerian baguettes, Moxie goes the extra mile to source locally grown heirloom grains

Junior (left) and Abraham at Moe’s Broadway Bagel. Credit: David Harwi Photography

Moxie Bread Co. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

Indian

Kitchen

milled fresh every week in Boulder. Devoted fans speak reverently of the bakery’s weekend-only fougasse, a savory French pretzel.

Silver: Lucky’s Bakehouse

Bronze: Spruce Confections

Write-in: Boxcar Coffee

BARBECUE GEORGIA BOYS BBQ

250 3rd Ave., Longmont

Certain loud people insist that Colorado doesn’t have any great barbecue. Those folks clearly have never sighed over the Tennessee Sticky Pig, a maple bourbon-glazed smoked pork belly offered at Georgia Boys BBQ, our readers’ strong choice for Boulder County’s top ’cue. Naysayers see the smoky light once they dig into a platter of ribs, smoked chicken thighs, hot links, pulled pork and brisket with all the comfy sauces and sides.

Silver: KT’s BBQ

Bronze: West End Tavern

BREAKFAST/BRUNCH LUCILE’S CREOLE CAFE

2124 14th St., Boulder 518 Kimbark St., Longmont 544 Briggs St., Erie

Sure, it’s nice that Coach Prime gives a thumbs-up to Lucile’s Creole Cafe, but the charming eatery in a small Boulder house has topped our brunch list for decades. Lucile’s offers a Louisiana culinary education starting with chicory coffee and sugar-dusted beignets with graduate work in etouffee and gumbo. The Cajun Breakfast lays poached eggs over meaty red beans under a Hollandaise blanket with grits, a buttermilk biscuit and house-made strawberry-rhubarb jam.

Silver: Tangerine

Bronze: Walnut Cafe and Southside Walnut Cafe

Write-in: Just BE Kitchen

Georgia Boys BBQ. Credit: David Harwi Photography

BEST OF BOULDER Food

CHINESE ZOE MA MA

2010 10th St., Boulder

Currently in the process of moving to 919 Pearl St.

Chinese home and street food classics fill the menu at Zoe Ma Ma. It’s not surprising that owner Edwin Zoe was recognized as a James Beard Award semifinalist for his devotion to authentic recipes and scratch-made ingredients. Zoe crafts freshly made noodles for dishes like Beijing-style Za Jiang Mian with ground pork and bean sauce. Summer must-tastes include cool sesame egg noodles with tofu, veggies and sesame-ginger dressing and curry-peanut chicken salad with crispy rice noodles.

Silver: China Gourmet

Bronze: Flower Pepper

CHOCOLATIER PIECE, LOVE & CHOCOLATE

805 Pearl St., Boulder

Our readers highly recommend Boulder’s tastiest immersive experience at Piece, Love & Chocolate. A sweet cacao cloud envelopes guests

Open mic every Wednesday

Dinner and Live Music every Thursday and Friday

Live music Brunch every Sunday

Farm Fresh Food prepared with Love

“The Home of the Somewhat Feral”

as they choose between sipping chocolate, chocolate cake and chocolate bars. Sweet dreams arise from glass cases displaying dozens of exotically filled chocolate truffles ranging from caramel pecan to cherry cordials.

Silver: Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

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COW

Bronze: Chocolove ICE CREAM SWEET

637 Front St., Louisville 2628 Broadway, Boulder 669 S. Broadway, Boulder 600 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont

We’re not the only ones who make a beeline to Sweet Cow on sweaty summer evenings — sometimes you gotta have a scoop of super-creamy Ozo Coffee ice cream. Our readers express their love annually for this Louisville-born creamery. Sweet Cow’s lineup of original flavors includes chill palate-pleasers like Thai iced tea ice cream and Larry’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Madness. The hardest decision is whether to enjoy it scooped in a cup, pretzel cone or in an Instagram-worthy hot fudge sundae.

LEAF VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

Silver - Vegetarian Gluten Free Menu

Silver - Vegetarian Organic Restaurant

Silver - Vegetarian Veggie Burger THE BOULDER DUSHANBE TEA HOUSE Winner - Best Tea House Winner - Best Place For First Date

LEAF VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

THREE LEAF FARM

ZUCCA ITALIAN RISTORANTE

THE HUCKLEBERRY

THE BOULDER TEA COMPANY

THREE LEAF CATERING

Sweet Cow. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

Silver: Gelato Boy

Bronze: Glacier Homemade

Ice Cream and Gelato

Write-in: Heaven Creamery

INDIAN SHERPA’S ADVENTURE RESTAURANT AND BAR

825 Walnut St., Boulder

Thanks to Sherpa’s, several generations of Boulderites have developed a serious jones for momo. Whether filled with vegetables, beef or chicken, these steamed Nepali noodle dumplings are an irresistible treat dipped with chutney. The Indian entrees range from mild and creamy korma to the genuinely fiery vindaloo curry — meat or fish in a tart, tomato-based sauce. Try the Tibetan-inspired thukpa — a big bowl of broth, noodles and vegetables — with yak. Nothing beats a cold beer on Sherpa’s embowered patio with hot-from-the-tandoor garlic and cheese naan and an order of silky saag paneer for dipping.

Silver: Kathmandu Restaurant II

Bronze: Tandoori Grill

Write-in: Curry ’N’ Kebob

ITALIAN CARELLI’S OF BOULDER

645 30th St., Boulder

Carelli’s deserves its landmark status as a perennial winner in this category. Since 1991, it has been the white tablecloth, Italian destination for Williams Village residents when their parents visit. Local date night regulars have a soft spot in their hearts for the ambience and service and a

craving for tortellini, salmon carpaccio, gnocchi, spaghetti aglio e olio and the eatery’s famous chicken parmigiana.

Silver: Il Pastaio Ristorante

Bronze: Pasta Jay’s

Write-in: Stella’s Cucina

JAPANESE JAPANGO

1136 Pearl St., Boulder

Japango has always celebrated the best of traditional Japanese cuisine beyond sushi, sashimi and the standard appetizers. Diners take the opportunity to stretch their palates with starters like teriyaki-grilled yellowtail collar and tender squid salad dished over greens with soy vinaigrette. They branch out for maki middled with pickled plum and shiso leaf. Comfort comes in the form of Yanagawa Nabe, a bowl of dashi broth with freshwater eel, poached egg, tender burdock root and veggies.

Silver: Hapa Sushi

Bronze: AOI Sushi

MEDITERRANEAN FALAFEL KING

1314 Pearl St., Boulder

Pearl Street Mall eateries have come and gone, but one landmark has satisfied our Mediterranean cravings since 1980. Inside, the antique tin ceiling and food remain exactly the same at Falafel King. We still love the savory falafel nuggets fresh from the fryer in a pita, with creamy hummus and a fresh salad with feta. Falafel King’s pita, hummus and falafel are available at local supermarkets.

Silver: CAVA

Bronze: Ali Baba Grill

Write-in: Falafayette

MEXICAN EFRAIN’S

2480 Canyon Blvd., Boulder

101 E. Cleveland St., Lafayette

When Efrain’s opened its spacious new location near McGuckin Hardware, many locals finally tasted what the restaurant’s longtime fans have crowed about. There’s green chile, and then there is Efrain’s fiery chile verde, a brothy bowl of roasted peppers and fall-

Falafel King. Credit: David Harwi Photography

Sherpa’s Adventure Restaurant and Bar. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

Food BEST OF BOULDER

Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar. Credit: David Harwi Photography

apart pork. You can hear the fajitas coming from across the dining room. Families come for the familiar enchiladas, Mexican ribs and huevos rancheros. That’s why voters lifted a Mason jar “coin” margarita to toast Efrain’s in this category. Pass the complimentary salsa and freshly fried chips.

Silver: Teocalli Cocina

Bronze: T/ACO

Write-in: Rosa Cantina PHO

BOULDER PHO & GRILL

2855 28th St., Boulder

Best of Boulder voters know a satisfying, affordable meal when they taste it. Family-owned Boulder Pho & Grill starts with steaming, slow-cooked broth. They add oodles of long, soft, chewy rice noodles and top them with rare steak, brisket, shrimp or barbecue pork. Topping it with fresh sprouts, onions, herbs, jalapeno and a squirt of sriracha creates a giant bowl of yum.

Silver: Chez Thuy Bronze: Black Pepper Pho

COSMO’S PIZZA WINNER: PIZZA SLICE, PIZZA RESTAURANT

Multiple locations

Cue the disco music and dance into Cosmo’s Pizza for a slice you can fold over and eat immediately, burning the roof of your mouth in the process. That dough triangle is shoved into a blazing oven topped with sausage and mushrooms and, probably, extra cheese. The pizzeria offers a slew of craveable variations for every taste (including those pineapple people). Which is probably why Weekly readers picked Cosmo’s for best slice and best pizza restaurant.

PIZZA SLICE

Silver: Audrey Jane’s Pizza Garage

Bronze: Abo’s Pizza

PIZZA RESTAURANT

Silver: Audrey Jane’s Pizza

Garage

Bronze: Barchetta

Write-in: Pizza Colore

SEAFOOD

JAX FISH HOUSE & OYSTER BAR

928 Pearl St., Boulder

Aw, shucks! The recently renovated Jax Fish House is all set to celebrate its 30th anniversary with special events and tons of oysters. The Boulder-born destination has expanded to locations in Colorado and nearby states. Led by chef Sheila Lucero, Jax has done as much as any Colorado eatery to promote sustainable seafood to support sustainable wild and farm fisheries across the globe.

Silver: Sushi Zanmai

Bronze: Tortugas

Write-in: Maine Shack

SUSHI JAPANGO

1136 Pearl St., Boulder

Sushi seems to be available everywhere from supermarkets to gas stations. Kids take sushi for school lunch. Japango is the place to explore beyond California or Philadelphia rolls. The well-seasoned chefs serve an impressive lineup of first-class fish and seafood as familiar seaweed-wrapped nigiri, or simply sliced as tuna, salmon and yellowtail sashimi. Sushi rice can be topped with kunsei (smoked salmon) or hotate (grilled scallop) for a chirashi bowl.

Silver: Hapa Sushi

Bronze: Sushi Zanmai

Write-in: Sumo Sushi

THAI ALOY THAI

2720 Canyon Blvd., Boulder

Aloy Thai has helped open Boulder diners’ eyes and palates to a world of Thai flavors beyond the usual menu suspects.

For instance, the Crying Tiger is a distinctive grilled steak infused with tart tamarind sauce. Sourcing great ingredients, Aloy’s chefs balance the dance of salty, spicy, sweet and umami elements in curries, noodle dishes, fried-rice plates, soups and salads. Aloy Thai also does the classics well such as pad Thai, tom yum

soup and green papaya salad. And, yes, ordering anything “Thai hot” — like the Sriracha Noodle bathed in Aloy’s housemade hot sauce — guarantees a burn.

Silver: Busaba

Bronze: Chez Thuy

Write-in: Mana Thai

Food BEST OF BOULDER

SANDWICH SNARF’S SANDWICHES

Multiple locations

Founded in Boulder by sandwich evangelist Jimmy Seidel, Snarf’s has spread the loaf gospel to Front Range and outof-state locations. Snarf’s always wins this category because of Seidel’s ongoing obsession with the essentials: oventoasted bread, high quality fillings and careful layering. The menu ranges from classic subs like the italian and customer-devised variations on the not-on-themenu menu. One winner is the german dog sub, featuring a beef hot dog, bacon, Swiss, horseradish, mustard, sauerkraut, onions, pickles and hot peppers.

Silver: Organic Sandwich Co.

Bronze: Moxie Bread Co.

TACO T/ACO

1175 Walnut St., Boulder

Taco boredom never gets a chance at T/ACO, which boasts more than 20 variations dished properly in warm griddled corn tortillas with housemade salsas. Favorite fillings include grilled barbacoa beef, pork carnitas with pineapple and braised duck with verde mole. Fish or shrimp tacos can be paired with one of eight margaritas on the menu. Needless to say, this is ground zero on Taco Tuesday in Boulder.

Silver: McDevitt Taco Supply

Bronze: Bartaco

Write-in: Santo

WINGS

WORLD FAMOUS DARK HORSE BAR & GRILL

2922 Baseline Road, Boulder

Forget the burgers! Boulder Weekly foodies say the reason the Dark Horse is so darn famous is the wings. The house sauces range from hot and extra hot to barbecue, Carolina-style, teriyaki and dry rubbed. The plump fried wings are properly side-kicked with blue cheese or ranch dressing and celery sticks. A half century after opening, developers plan to tear down the Dark Horse and recreate it on site. Fans are fine so long as the cool stuff on the ceiling and the chicken wings migrate to the new place.

Silver: Peckish

Bronze: Mountain Sun Pubs and Breweries

Write-in: Urban Field Pizza &

EAST COUNTY RESTAURANT

THE POST CHICKEN & BEER

105 W. Emma St., Lafayette

It’s hard to narrow down exactly why our readers chose The Post.

Obviously, reason No. 1 is the spot-on gluten-free fried chicken paired with a house-brewed ale. But deviled eggs with honey-cured bacon, Hatch green chile mac and cheese, and warm cheddar biscuits also make for happy customers at the original Lafayette locations and six sister Front Range outposts. Ask the kids, and they’ll vote for The Post’s chocolate s’mores pudding jar.

Silver: Teocalli Cocina

Bronze: Efrain’s

Write-in: Community Supper Club

World Famous Dark Horse Bar & Grill. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

Food BEST OF BOULDER

FOOD ON THE HILL THE SINK

1165 13th St., Boulder

When The Sink turned 100 last year with festivities and a documentary film, the focus was on the restaurant’s colorful history, cool wall art and famous employees. While it certainly retains its beer-y CU legacy, The Sink today is a charming dinner spot. Burgers, wings, pizza and a huge warm cookie are still available, but the menu takes some sophisticated turns. Try the Nashville hot chicken with cinnamon and sugar churros or the brothy, cheesy French onion soup. Regulars praise the grilled salmon sandwich with house-made pickles, and the healthy, satisfying Greekout Mediterranean salad with blackened chicken.

Silver: Illegal Pete’s Bronze: Cafe Aion

Write-in: Ginger Pig

LYONS RESTAURANT OSKAR BLUES GRILL & BREW

303 Main St.

While the Oskar Blues beer brand was

sold off two years ago, Oskar Blues Grill & Brew in Lyons is still proudly owned by the original founders. Since 1997, the establishment has functioned as an eatery for locals and visitors, a community gathering spot and one of the area’s best live music venues. The

burgers, garlic mashers and jambalaya still bring in the dinner crowd, and the ales are still exceptional.

Silver: Marigold Bronze: Mojo Taqueria

NEDERLAND RESTAURANT CROSSCUT PIZZERIA AND TAPHOUSE

4 E. 1st St.

A day of fun in the mountains often ends at our reader’s favorite Nederland gathering spot. Crosscut is serious about their crust, using Colorado-milled grain that is fermented for three days. It’s hard to beat the nicely charred, bubbled crust created by the wood-fired oven. One of the most popular pizzas is the Teo (aka “Extra Special Cheese”) topped with bacon, jalapeños, Parmesan, mozzarella, tomato sauce and house-made chile honey. Crosscut’s deck with a creek view is Nederland’s most excellent al fresco dining spot.

Silver: Kathmandu Bronze: Backcountry Pizza & Taphouse

The Sink. Credit: Laura Mariani Photography Oskar Blues. Credit: Laura Mariani Photography

Drink BEST OF BOULDER

BAR WORLD FAMOUS DARK HORSE

2922 Baseline Road, Boulder

A repeat champion, the Dark Horse was last year’s Best Bar. It’s boasted Boulder’s Best Wings for the past three years and nabbed top three honors for their burgers since at least 2018 (we stopped counting after that). National chains (who shall remain nameless) have tried to replicate the Dark Horse’s throweverything-on-the-wall aesthetic without success. With a pending redevelopment, there’s never been a better time to support this iconic Boulder eatery.

Silver: License No. 1

Bronze: Jungle

SPORTS BAR WORLD FAMOUS DARK HORSE

We’ve already enumerated the charms of Dark Horse, the best place to cheer on (or cry about) the Buffs or

sports team of your choosing. (When asked, they’ll even put fútbol on the telly for us unAmerican fans.) But each of these spots is a can’t miss: Red Zone is literally the go-to in Longmont; West End offers a quieter, more refined atmosphere; and newcomer The Sophomore has crisp, giant screens and juicy, tasty burgers for your viewing and dining pleasure.

Silver: Red Zone at The Pumphouse Brewery

Bronze: West End Tavern

Write-in: The Sophomore

BARTENDER

KIARA DEMARE AT VELVET ELK LOUNGE

2037 13th St., Boulder

Demare has been bartending in Boulder for a few years. She worked at the Boulder Country Club, serving regulars like CU Boulder athletic director Rick George and men’s basketball coach Tad Boyle.

Demare is relatively new to Velvet Elk. She started tending bar there in August 2023 and has already helped build a good crowd of 20-30 regulars.

Kiara Demare at Velvet Elk. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

Drink BEST OF BOULDER

“Every show, we get different crowds in,” she says. “But we have a pretty good, loyal group of people we see every weekend.”

Demare credits her “awesome” co-workers with creating a good vibe at Velvet Elk. “It’s a really good environment to be in, it’s a really cool space. I feel lucky to be there.”

As for her own bartending skills, Demare says her love of talking to people probably helped her nab the win. She is studying to be a journalist and, in the meantime, working on her cocktail shaking skills.

“I like to stir drinks more than I like to shake them,” she says. “My shake is in an awkward spot right now. It’s supposed to sound like a rhythm, so I’m trying to improve the rhythm of my shake.”

Silver: Aaron Amha at The Spotted James

Bronze: Jay Beard at Flagstaff House

HAPPY HOUR

MOUNTAIN SUN PUB AND BREWERIES

Multiple locations

Mountain Sun et al. feels like your neighborhood bar. That’s because it is, with locations in Longmont, downtown Boulder and SoBo. (Denver’s Vine Street may be reopened by the time you read this!) Not content with their daily happy hour, Mountain Sun does late night happy hour daily at its Longs Peak location and Thursdays through Saturdays at Under the Sun, and all-day happy hour on Tuesdays at Southern Sun. $1 off pints from the place that birthed Stout Month? We’ll take two.

Silver: Hapa Sushi

Bronze: The Boulder Cork

COCKTAILS JUNGLE

2018 10th St., Boulder

They’re big. They’re brightly colored. Some of them are on fire and served in parrots, turtles or squid-wrapped

cups. (Or are they octopi? We can’t tell.) Either way, it’s hard to beat the cocktails at Jungle, from the classic — one of our writers swears their piña coladas are the best in town — to the unique. Any bar that offers shareable cocktails is gonna get an A+ from us.

Silver: Bitter Bar

Bronze: License No. 1

Write-in: FARRA

MARGARITA

RIO GRANDE MEXICAN RESTAURANT

1101 Walnut St., Boulder

While the establishment next door has been through a few iterations over the years, Rio Grande has stood the test of time. Opened the same year as one Taylor Alison Swift was born (1989), the Rio’s margaritas are the OG. And much like a classic white t-shirt and red lipstick, they never go out of style.

Silver: Efrain’s of Boulder

Bronze: T/aco

Jungle. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

Mountain Sun. Credit: David Harwi Photography

Drink BEST OF BOULDER

DISTILLERY SPIRIT HOUND

4196 Ute Highway, Lyons

BoB’s Best Distillery for nine years running, Spirit Hound’s accolades aren’t confined to Boulder County. They’ve racked up recognition internationally, too — you know your whisky is good when you win awards from across the pond. A Denver tasting room opened last year in the Highlands, but our hearts will always be with the Lyons location.

Silver: DV8 Distillery

Bronze: Dry Land Distillers

CIDERY ACREAGE BY STEM CIDERS

1380 Horizon Ave., Lafayette

The views alone are worth a trip to this East County cidery, but Acreage isn’t relying on their pretty face. Their ciders are seriously delicious, from

dry to sweet and even spicy. Bonus points for their Meals on Wheels flight, a menu standard that gives money to fight local hunger. We stan a charitable business.

Silver: St. Vrain

Bronze: BOCO Cider

CRAFT BREWERY

UPSLOPE BREWING COMPANY

1898 S. Flatiron Court, Boulder 1501 Lee Hill Drive, Boulder

With North and East Boulder locations in an industrial building and an office park, respectively, Uplsope is a real local’s brewery. Their classic beers still satisfy, and their seltzers — with flavors like juniper/lime and tangerine/ hops — were a welcome addition to a landscape lousy with sickly sweet White Claws.

Silver: Avery Brewing

Bronze: Mountain Sun Pubs & Breweries

Spirit Hound. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

Drink BEST OF BOULDER

BEER SELECTION AT A RESTAURANT MOUNTAIN SUN

Multiple locations

What we love about all our best beer selection winners is the variety they offer in a town that sometimes seems like it only cares about IPAs. Not so at Mountain Sun, et al., which spends an entire month celebrating stouts. At the other end of the spectrum is Bohemian Biergarten and its Eastern European brews. Backcountry boasts 68 taps, the widest selection in BoCo.

Silver: Backcountry Pizza & Taphouse

Bronze: Bohemian Biergarten

WINE SELECTION FRASCA FOOD & WINE

1738 Pearl St., Boulder

It’s in the name, so the wine selection at Frasca must be good. Then there’s that Michelin star they won last year.

Journalists’ salaries being what they are, we’ve never been, but you can take our readers’ word for it that Frasca delivers.

Silver: Flagstaff House

Bronze: /pôr/ wine house

COFFEE SHOP BOXCAR COFFEE

1825 B Pearl St., Boulder 637 S. Broadway, Boulder

We were ever so pleased when Boxcar opened in Table Mesa Shopping Center after a year of staring into an empty space (RIP, Caffè Sole). It didn’t take

long for it to become as packed as their original downtown spot. That’s probably due to their impeccable brews and friendly baristas.

Silver: OZO Coffee Company

Bronze: Trident Booksellers and Cafe

Write-in: Spruce Confections

BARISTA

CASEY WILSON AT BOXCAR

1825 B Pearl St., Boulder

Wilson’s days start at 6 a.m. But he doesn’t mind — in fact, he’s grateful for the extra sleep.

“Our bakers have to get there at 4 a.m.,” he says.

He’s also used to it: Wilson has been a Boulder barista for a decade, starting during his time as a CU Boulder undergrad. He’s been behind the counter at Boxcar for six years and managing the downtown location for two.

“I love it,” Wilson says of the Pearl Street coffee shop and roaster. “They’ve done a bunch to support me.”

That includes helping him train for numerous coffee competitions, including three visits to Coffee Masters and a 2020 appearance at the U.S. Coffee Championships.

“They’ve helped me come up with drinks for [the competitions], they helped me train on tasting coffee, guessing which country it’s from,” Wilson says. “That’s the biggest reason I’ve stayed with them. The knowledge I get, the other shops teach you the basics but don’t go into depth on the science behind it. There’s so much about where the coffee comes from and how it was grown.”

Back at home, Wilson really enjoys making drinks from Boxcar’s seasonal menus. He says he’ll happily answer anyone’s questions — the nerdier, the better.

“The more questions people ask about coffee, the more I get into it. I’m always happy to talk coffee.”

Boxcar Coffee. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

Acreage by Stem Ciders. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

Livestream Online & In-person classes

New student offer: one week for just $30!

1280 Centaur Village Drive, #7, Lafayette (303) 665-8134 - info@soultreecolorado.com

Drink BEST OF BOULDER

Follow him on Instagram, where he posts Boxcar updates and food photography: @caseywlsn

Silver: Greg Lefcourt at Beleza

Bronze: Noah Durbin at Boxcar

COFFEE ROASTERS

OZO COFFEE COMPANY

Multiple locations

Spanning Boulder and Longmont, any one of OZO’s five shops is a solid choice. Our favorite is the roastery cafe in Flatiron Business Park, co-located with Upslope (another BoB winner). There’s plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the delicious aroma of fresh-roasted coffee wafting through the air (or, depending on the time of day, the scent of beer being brewed).

What’s not to love?

Silver: Boxcar

Bronze: Ampersand Coffee Roasters

TEAHOUSE BOULDER DUSHANBE TEAHOUSE

1770 13th St., Boulder

It’s hard to compete with a handcrafted, handpainted, handbuilt authentic Tajik tea house, which is perhaps why Dushanbe has been our undisputed winner for the past decade.

Silver: Ku Cha House of Tea

Bronze: Trident Booksellers and Cafe

JUICE/SMOOTHIE BAR WONDER PRESS

946 Pearl St., Boulder

1139 Francis St., Longmont

Normally, a $10 juice is something we might roll our eyes at. But the juices, smoothies, bone broths and baked goods at Wonder Press are above reproach. We love their bottle recycling program (less waste!) and housemade syrups and nut milks. Nab a juice in every color of the rainbow on West Pearl or their new Longmont location, opened just last year.

Silver: Inta Juice Bronze: Vitality Bowls

OZO Coffee Company. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

Zdenek Srom, Owner of Bohemian Biergarten, Photo by Joni Shrantz

WINNER OF 6

BEST OF BOULDER AWARDS

Home & Garden BEST OF BOULDER

ARBORIST

TADDIKEN TREE COMPANY

1726 63rd St., Boulder

The trees are our friends, and we want nothing but the best for our friends. For our readers, that means turning to the certified arborists at Taddiken Tree Company. Whether you’re in need of pruning, trimming, removal, fertilization, disease diagnosis or planting, Taddiken Tree Company won’t leaf you hanging.

Silver: Berkelhammer

Tree Experts

Bronze: Blue River Forestry & Tree Care

CARPET/FLOORING ATLAS FLOORING

4920 28th St., Boulder

When it comes to starting the day off on the right foot, where you put your foot first matters. That’s why our readers go to Atlas Flooring for all their carpet and flooring needs. Family- owned and operated since 1958, the company has a vast selection of hardwood, vinyl, carpet and more.

Atlas Flooring gets extra points for their long-running employee of the month, a yellow lab named Hank who is a very good boy. Find him on Instagram: @hankthegoodboy.

Silver: Carpet Masters of Colorado

Bronze: Carpet Exchange

PRECISION PLUMBING, HEATING, COOLING & ELECTRICAL

WINNER: HVAC, ELECTRICIAN, PLUMBER

413 S Arthur Ave., Louisville 5035 Chaparral Court, Boulder

It’s all in the name. With same-day service and upfront pricing, it’s no shock our readers turn to Precision for all things plumbing, HVAC and electric. Sure, you can try to MacGyver the flooding toilet yourself, but why not trust the professionals? The company has been serving the greater Boulder area for more than 40 years with polite, personable service and 24/7 phone lines.

ELECTRICIAN

Silver: M and M Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical

Bronze: AAA Electric Company

HVAC

Silver: Meyers Heating & Air Conditioning

Bronze: Bernie’s Plumbing & Heating

PLUMBER

Silver: Planet Plumbing & Drain

Bronze: Applewood Plumbing, Heating & Electric

THE FLOWER BIN

WINNER: FLORIST, NURSERY/GARDEN CENTER

1805 Nelson Road, Longmont

From daisies and daffodils to fruits and vegetables, The Flower Bin has been blooming with locally grown flowers and plants for more than 50 years. With thousands of perennials and an array of annuals, not to mention a bevy of cacti, shrubs and herbs, it might seem easy to feel lost in the shop’s jungle of options. But The Flower Bin’s staff prides itself on expert customer service, tending to your needs just as any good gardener tends to their seeds.

FLORIST

Silver: Sturtz & Copeland Bronze: Fiori Flowers

NURSERY/GARDEN CENTER

Silver: Harlequin’s Gardens Bronze: Sturtz & Copeland

Precision Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical. Courtesy: Precision Plumbing

Home & Garden BEST OF BOULDER

FURNITURE STORE WOODLEY’S

1400 South Main St., Longmont

Since 1979, Woodley’s has offered quality furniture for every room in the home. With six stores across the Front Range and more than 200,000 square feet of furniture on display, the options are plenty, and Woodley’s has design staff on-hand to help you make the right choice for your taste and lifestyle. If you can’t find exactly what you had in mind, Woodley’s has a design center where you can customize your perfect piece.

Silver: West Elm Bronze: Pig + Pearl Secondhand

HOME BUILDER/ CONTRACTOR

COTTONWOOD CUSTOM BUILDERS

4439 North Broadway, Unit E, Boulder

In a world full of cookie-cutter homes, the creations of Cottonwood Custom Builders are anything but. Specializing in green and fire-resistant builds, our readers depend on Cottonwood Custom Builders for homes tailor-made for their tastes and our climate. The Cottonwood team calls attention to detail its forte and only takes on a select number of projects to ensure each one gets the attention it deserves.

Silver: Boulder Creek Neighborhoods

Bronze: Thrive Home Builders

HOME FURNISHINGS/ APPLIANCE

MOUNTAIN HIGH APPLIANCE

1130 Pine St., Louisville

With more than 30 years of experience under their belt, Mountain High Appliance has the know-how to get you the right appliances “whether you need a new dishwasher or an entire new kitchen.” With a range of price points and brands, our readers have relied on Mountain High Appliance for their Energy Star-rated products, live demos and certified installers.

Silver: Woodley’s

Bronze: West Elm

HOT TUB/SPA MR. POOL

2347 South St., Boulder

For a dip in the pool, a trip to the (home) spa and endless days in their chaise right in their own backyard, our readers look no further than the fabulous Mr. Pool. Serving Boulder swimmers and poolside sitters since 1978, Mr. Pool is now equipped with design, construction, maintenance and service departments to make sure their customers spend more time relaxing than working on their pool.

Silver: Wind River Spas

Bronze: International Hot Tub Company

Nolan at The Flower Bin. Credit: David Harwi Photography

Home & Garden BEST OF BOULDER

KITCHEN SUPPLY STORE PEPPERCORN

1235 Pearl St., Boulder

With cookware, gifts and snacks galore, it’s no wonder Peppercorn has been a Pearl Street staple since 1977. Behind its unassuming storefront is 12,000 square feet of anything you need to make your culinary dreams come true. From kitschy to elegant and everything in between, Peppercorn has what you need for any and every kitchen.

Silver: McGuckin Hardware

Bronze: Cheese Importers

LANDSCAPER NATIVE EDGE

1435 Yarmouth Ave., Suite 102, Boulder

It’s no secret that Boulderites love the outdoors — and so do the landscape professionals at Native Edge. They know the local ecology, geology and community well, allowing them to create designs with purpose and mindfulness. Plus, Native Edge puts their money where their mouth is — every year, they donate 5% of their profits back into the community.

Silver: Wild Heritage Gardens and Design

Bronze: Green Guys

Bree (left) and Alex at Peppercorn. Credit: David Harwi Photography Cottonwood Custom Builders. Courtesy: Cottonwood Custom Builders

Home & Garden BEST OF BOULDER

MATTRESS STORE DENVER MATTRESS

1945 28th St., Boulder

Denver Mattress isn’t any old mattress store. They manufacture all their mattresses in their own factory, meaning they have full control over the materials used in your mattress and can cut out the middle-man markup. That means up to 50% lower prices (at least according to the company’s website). With free shipping on every mattress, you won’t have to borrow your friend’s truck or break the bank to get your new bed home.

Silver: Urban Mattress

Bronze: Boulder Furniture & Mattress

PAINTER

CERTAPRO PAINTERS OF BOULDER AND LONGMONT

1515 Main St., Unit 15-102, Longmont 5311 Western Ave., Suite 115, Boulder

A fresh coat of paint can give a space new life. And when Boulder Weekly readers want to revive their home or business, they turn to CertaPro Painters. “Not only has the interior of our building taken on a whole new, brighter and modern look, but CertaPro’s crew also did a great job to ensure that they weren’t disturbing customers during business hours,” said one reviewer. With everything from exterior painting and color consultation to drywall repair and cabinet refinishing, CertaPro provides worryfree and timely service.

Silver: Karen’s Company

Bronze:

Jacobsen Brothers Painting Native Edge Landscaping. Courtesy: Native Edge Landscaping

Home & Garden

ROOFING CONTRACTOR BOULDER ROOFING

3551 Pearl St., Boulder

Our readers are raising the roof for Boulder Roofing, a full-service roofing company with more than 30 years of experience. With a 100% satisfaction guarantee and an in-house fabrication and metal shop, this company is committed to getting your roof right. They also donate labor, material and financial support to a range of local groups like the Longmont Humane Society, Emergency Family Assistance Association, Community Food Share, Boulder County Hospice and Colorado Trail Foundation.

Silver: Bulldog Roofing Bronze: Black Roofing & Waterproofing

SOLAR COMPANY NAMASTE SOLAR

6707 Winchester Circle, Unit 700, Boulder

As temperatures rise, we’re all looking for ways to be a little easier on Mother Earth. With Colorado’s famously sunny climate, why not harness the power of the sun? Namaste Solar has been in the biz for almost two decades, and the certified B-Corp has a range of community, sustainability and equity initiatives. Its stated mission is to “propagate the responsible use of solar energy, pioneer conscientious business practices, and create holistic wealth for ourselves and our community.”

Silver: Flatiron Solar Bronze: Independent Power

Namaste Solar. Courtesy: Namaste Solar

Cannabis BEST OF BOULDER

BEST OVERALL DISPENSARY

Silver: The Farm

Bronze: 14er

MEDICAL DISPENSARY

Silver: Native Roots

Bronze: 14er

BARGAINS

Silver: The Farm

Bronze: 14er

BUDTENDERS

Silver: The Farm

Bronze: 14er

CBD PRODUCTS

Silver: The Farm

Bronze: 14er

CONCENTRATES

Silver: 14er

Bronze: The Farm

EDIBLES

Silver: The Farm

Bronze: 14er

RECREATIONAL DISPENSARY

Silver: The Farm

Bronze: 14er

MAGNOLIA ROAD

1750 30th St., 84A & B, Boulder

Magnolia Road took home a big piece of the pie when it came to our dankest categories. The cannabis staple opened its medical dispensary in 2013 and recreational in 2015. From edibles to concentrates, our readers trust Magnolia Road for their fair prices and budtenders that can guide them to the right high.

NEW DISPENSARY CANNABIS DEPOT

3390 28th St., Boulder

Boulder Weekly readers are big fans of the new kid on the block for its unbeatable deals and expert budtenders. Whether you want to stock up on prerolls or find the perfect edible for a hang in the park, Cannabis Depot promises “the best prices. Every day.”

Silver: Space Station

SELECTION AT A DISPENSARY THE FARM

2801 Iris Ave., Boulder

From flower and extracts to tinctures and topicals, The Farm has it all. The woman-owned business has been operating in Boulder for more than a decade with a huge selection, long hours and good vibes that “hearken back to a simpler time of Americana, classic rock and smoking great weed as the sun sets over the mountains.”

Silver: 14er

Bronze: Magnolia Road

FLOWER 14ER

2897 Mapleton Ave., Suite 800, Boulder

When our readers are looking for the best bud in the biz, they say high to 14er. With an ever-changing menu fresh from the garden, the 14-year-old business cans its handtrimmed, dried and cured flower with an airtight seal that eliminates oxygen and light. “Once you crack open a can, you’ll see why we go the extra mile.”

Silver: The Farm

Bronze: Magnolia Road

Magnolia Road. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

Best Overall Dispensary

Best Bargains at a Dispensary

Best Budtenders

Best Concentrates

Best REC Dispensary

Best MED Dispensary

Best Edibles

Best CBD Products

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Entertainment & Culture

LOCAL CELEBRITY DEION SANDERS

Coach Prime might not have (yet) scored a winning season for the Buffs (to say nothing of a national championship), but he did bring Boulder some national attention and deliver empowerment and joy to Black residents. We’d say that’s well worth a BoB win.

Silver: Ashley Patchen Bronze: Ryan Van Duzer

LOCAL MUSICIAN/ GROUP FACE VOCAL BAND

Who needs instruments to put on a good show? Not Boulder’s FACE Vocal Band. Since 2002, this local all-vocal rock a cappella ensemble has dazzled audiences around the world — including NBC’s The Sing-Off and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland, plus opening slots for artists like Jon Bon Jovi, Jay Leno and the Barenaked Ladies.

Silver: Hazel Miller Bronze: Gregory Alan Isakov

BEST OF BOULDER

MUSIC FESTIVAL ROCKYGRASS

Planet Bluegrass, 500 W. Main St., Lyons

This Lyons bluegrass festival is an undisputed winner. (Planet Bluegrass also hosts third-place finisher Folks Fest and owns silver medal winner Telluride Bluegrass Festival.) Nestled

between towering cliffs and a flowing creek, and featuring some fine pickers, RockyGrass is quintessential Colorado. Now in its 52nd iteration, the 2024 event is already sold out. Start planning now for 2025. Nab a coveted camping spot for an elevated experience.

Silver: Telluride Bluegrass Festival Bronze: Rocky Mountain Folks Festival

MUSIC VENUE AND MOVIE THEATER BOULDER THEATER

2032 14th St.

Is it the iconic neon marquee? The Art Deco architecture? The impressive lineup of music, standup, films and community events? The location in the heart of downtown Boulder? Whatever the reason, Boulder Theater is a perennial reader favorite across categories.

Boulder Theater. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

Entertainment & Culture BEST

OF BOULDER

MUSIC VENUE

Silver: Chautauqua Auditorium

Bronze: Nissi’s Entertainment Venue & Event Center

MOVIE THEATER

Silver: AMC Flatiron Crossing

Bronze: Century Boulder

LIVE JAZZ VENUE

ST JULIEN HOTEL & SPA

900 Walnut St., Boulder

Some weeks, St Julien has live jazz four nights out of seven. It’s the perfect setting: lush, cozy chairs for lounging, dark bars and upscale cocktails and food. Shows get even better in warm weather when the music moves outside to the expansive patio.

Silver: Hotel Boulderado

Bronze: Nissi’s

OPEN MIC JAMESTOWN MERCANTILE

108 Main St., Jamestown

The Merc, as it’s known by locals, hosts open mic night every first and third Wednesday of the month (the other Wednesdays are movie nights!). With a cozy, casual atmosphere and seriously delicious food (no shade to other BoB winners, but this is our favorite breakfast spot), it’s well worth the windy drive up Left Hand Canyon.

Silver: The Attic Bar & Bistro

Bronze: Roots Music Project

Jamestown Mercantile. Credit: Ray Keener

St Julien Hotel & Spa. Credit: Laura Mariani Photography

Theater Boulder

Z2 Entertainment thanks you for voting Boulder Theater the Best Music Venue & Best Movie Theater !

scan here to find your next event at

Entertainment & Culture BEST

OF BOULDER

PLACE TO DANCE AVALON BALLROOM

6185 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder

Scandinavian dance, Egyptian belly dancing, Scottish country dancing, bachata, waltz — you can learn all this and more at Avalon, a repeat BoB winner. The East Boulder spot offers classes for every interest and skill level, and even serves Boulder County’s rinkstarved roller skaters.

Silver: Alchemy of Movement

Bronze: Nissi’s

LIVE DANCE GROUP BOULDER BALLET

Located at Dairy Arts Center, 2590 Walnut St.

Authentic relationships. Balancing discipline and play. Emotional and physical wellbeing. Those are just a few of Boulder Ballet’s stated values. Is it any wonder Boulder County readers love them? Watch them at the Dairy or one of a handful of other Colorado venues, including a yearly performance at Glen Huntington Bandshell in downtown Boulder.

Silver: Alchemy of Movement

Bronze: Streetside Dance

LIVE THEATER GROUP COLORADO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

CU Boulder

For 65 years, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival took advantage of Colorado’s usually clear skies to perform the Bard under the stars. This year (and possibly next), they’re moving inside to the newly renovated Roe Green Theater.

Silver: Boulder Ensemble Theater Company

Bronze: Longmont Theater Company

ART GALLERY DAIRY ARTS CENTER

2590 Walnut St., Boulder

The Dairy — once a real, working factory — is best known as the hub of live performance in Boulder, but it also operates four galleries that, collectively throughout the year, display the works of more than 100 artists. The best part? They’re all free and open to the public, six days a week.

Silver: BMoCA

Bronze: Phil Lewis Art

Boulder Ballet. Courtesy: Boulder Ballet

PRESENTS BOULDEROPERA

Entertainment & Culture

Opera in the Park 2024

MUSEUM

August 3rd, 2024 at 7pm

BMOCA (BOULDER MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART)

1750 13th St., Boulder

PLACE TO WORK REMOTELY TRIDENT BOOKSELLERS AND CAFE

940 Pearl St., Boulder

Dove

December 14th- 15th, 2024 at ETown

The reigning champ captures readers’ hearts and minds with an ever-evolving lineup of exhibits and a prime location in an historic building (at least for now). We’re sure BMoCA will offer even stiffer competition with its planned relocation and expansion.

Silver: WOW! Children’s Museum

Bronze: Museum of Boulder

Cozy, locally owned and with plenty of nooks to nestle in, there are many reasons our readers love Trident. For us, it’s the people watching — as reliably good as the WiFi and the quality beverages.

Silver: OZO Coffee Company

Bronze: The Laughing Goat

FESTIVAL/EVENT BOULDER COUNTY FARMERS MARKETS

9595 Nelson Road, Longmont

13th Street between Arapahoe and Canyon, Boulder

How very Boulder of Boulder to prefer fresh fruits and veggies to the yearly parties that are our other fun events like the BOLDERBoulder or Taco Fest. But that’s just how good the farmers market is: A place to socialize, shop and sip in the sunshine, mingle with your neighbors (and probably more than a few tourists) and listen to live music.

Silver: Boulder Creek Festival

Bronze: BOLDERBoulder

NONPROFIT HUMANE SOCIETY OF BOULDER VALLEY

2323 55th St., Boulder

The oldest continuously serving humane society in Colorado helps more than 16,000 animals each year. In addition to placing pets with loving homes, HSBV offers free food and supplies to those in need, temporary shelter for pets with displaced or hospitalized guardians and even discounted behavioral consultations and classes to help people keep their animals.

Silver: Planned Parenthood

Bronze: Longmont Humane Society

Trident Booksellers and Cafe. Credit: David Harwi Photography

Entertainment & Culture BEST

OF BOULDER

PRIVATE SCHOOL FRIENDS SCHOOL

3800 Kalmia Ave., Boulder (North Campus) 5465 Pennsylvania Ave., Boulder (South Campus)

In an education system increasingly focused on math, science and tech skills, Friends puts the emphasis on the social and emotional for kids in preschool through 8th grade. Not that they’re skimping on STEM — Friends students regularly take home awards from regional and state science fairs.

Silver: Dawson School

Bronze: September School

DAY CARE TAKE-A-BREAK

408 W. Baseline Road, Lafayette

When it comes to looking after your little ones, our readers put their trust in Lafayette’s Take-a-Break. Founded in 1982, the caregivers at this child care center are trained in infant/child CPR and first aid, medication administration, early childhood or elementary education and more.

Silver: Boulder Day Nursery

Bronze: La Petite Academy

SUMMER CAMP COLORADO MOUNTAIN RANCH

10063 Gold Hill Road, Boulder

Archery, mountain biking, horseback riding, yoga — what more could a kid want from a summer camp? Maybe that’s why our readers keep praising this Gold Hill spot, where kids can be away from home (but not too far).

Silver: YMCA Summer Camps

Bronze: CU Science Discovery

ADVANCED EDUCATION

CU CONTINUING EDUCATION

1505 University Ave., Boulder

When it comes to lifelong learning, Boulder Weekly readers gave top honors to CU Continuing Education not only for its diverse suite of classes, but also for offering unmatched scheduling flexibility that allows you to pursue your higher-learning goals while managing the rigors of day-to-day life.

Silver: Naropa University

Bronze: Front Range Community College

Boulder County Farmers Market. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

FRIDAY, AUGUST 30

BRANDI CARLILE LUKAS NELSON

SATURDAY, AUGUST 31 STING

ONEREPUBLIC

MICHAEL MARCAGI

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

TIM MCGRAW

THE BLACK CROWES THE WAR AND TREATY

JAZZASPENSNOWMASS.ORG

TICKET & LODGING PACKAGES: 800.SNOWMASS

Jazz,Blues,Soul,Funk,World,NOLA,Gospel&More!

The Headhunters 50th Anniversary Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen w/special guest Nigel Hall The New Mastersounds

25th Anniversary Cory Henry Blind Boys of Alabama 1 PASS

Fitness & Health BEST OF BOULDER

GYM/FITNESS CENTER

MECHA

2546 Spruce St., Boulder

1817 CO-42, Louisville

MECHA is here to get you sweating and make you feel powerful along the way. With studios in Boulder and Louisville, owner Rebecca Baack and her spectacular team bring a fun, welcoming energy to your workout day in, day out, offering cardio and strength classes, resistance, hybrid and more. First time? Get your first three classes for just $35 as part of their new client offer.

Silver: Uplift Boulder

Bronze: Alchemy of Movement

Write-in: Studio Shira

CLIMBING GYM THE SPOT

3240 Prairie Ave., Boulder 1754 Dogwood St., Louisville

Boulder County’s premier climbing gym lives up to its name year after

year — The Spot truly is the place to be for locals craving a vertical rush. From climbing to yoga and an open gym, there’s something for everyone, whether it’s your thousandth climb or your first.

Silver: Boulder Rock Club

Bronze: Movement Climbing + Fitness

YOGA STUDIO YOGA POD

633 S. Broadway, Unit N, Boulder 1890 30th St., Boulder 2201 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont

Co-owners Gerry and Nicole Wienholt, along with their wonderful team, bring balance and beauty to their studios every day. It’s why, time and time again, Yoga Pod is the preferred desti-

nation for our readers when it comes to strengthening the body, mind and soul. Looking to start your journey? Their introductory offer of $40 for four weeks of unlimited classes is your sign to start.

Silver: CorePower Yoga

Bronze: Full Throttle Yoga

Write-in: Studio Shira

Very personalized work and I have strong supporting women, but also open to all humans who need support and help. I work a lot with Lymphatic drainage, specially with post surgery but also for chronic conditions. All kind of injuries, traumas and whatever people need to helping people be happy physically and emotionally and improving my clients quality of life and their success in acquiring their dreams.

Yoga Pod. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

Fitness & Health BEST OF BOULDER

PILATES STUDIO

MECHA

2546 Spruce St., Boulder

1817 CO-42, Louisville

When it comes to pilates courses, MECHA has it down to a science. Their RESISTANCE class is a modern approach to pilates, borrowing elements from strength training to deliver a challenging, satisfying class for all levels of experience. By the end of it, your body will be thanking you.

Silver: Bolder Pilates Bronze: Club Pilates

DANCE STUDIO

ALCHEMY OF MOVEMENT

2436 30th St., Boulder

When Ashley Patchen took over Alchemy of Movement in 2018, she understood the importance of accessibility and fun on the dance floor. This is precisely why, in the six years that have followed, Alchemy of Movement has remained the destination for both casual and experienced dancers to get their groove on (and a killer workout) by way of a plethora of unique classes.

Silver: Studio Shira Bronze: Avalon Ballroom

MARTIAL ARTS TRAN’S MARTIAL ARTS

3101 ½ 28th St., Boulder

117 S. Sunset St. D, Longmont

Whether it’s Hung Tran at the Longmont location, or Greg and Allison Zolun at TMA Boulder, Tran’s Martial Arts success begins with passion and love for their disciplines. It starts at the top and permeates through their experienced coaches to every student that straps on a pair of gloves. From Krav Maga to Muay Thai, fitness kickboxing and a number of children’s martial arts courses, they’ve got what you need to unleash your inner dragon.

Silver: Easton Training Center Bronze: One Dojo

GOLF COURSE

FLATIRONS GOLF COURSE

5706 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder

Golf can be many things: relaxing, gorgeous, often expensive. At Flatirons Golf Course, you’ll check off two of these three boxes. Enjoy your day with one of the best views the sport has to offer, but you won’t break the bank. It’s that sort of pride for inclusion that lands them in the number one spot yet again.

Silver: Boulder Country Club Bronze: Indian Peaks Golf Club

Tran’s Martial Arts. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

Fitness & Health

BARBER SHOP FLOYD’S 99

Multiple locations

Time and time again, Floyd’s 99 proves that excellent service and consistent cuts are the pathway to capturing the top spot for best barber shop in Boulder County. Need a fade? A coloring? A close shave? Head into one of their many locations and leave feeling fresh.

Silver: Rollins Barbershop

Bronze: Al’s Barber Shop

Write-in: Hennepin Barbers

HAIR SALON VOODOO HAIR LOUNGE

2100 Pearl St., Boulder

2024 marks another win for Voodoo Hair Lounge, and who can blame our readers? A well-done hairdo is an art form, and the Voodoo team is obsessed with maximizing your cut

every time you step in their doors on Pearl Street. Furthermore, they divert 93% of their waste, going the extra mile to ensure sustainable businesses. They collect the hair they cut, which is turned into oil booms to collect oil in the ocean. How cool is that?

Silver: Twig Hair Salon

Bronze: Boulder Hair Collective

Write-in: Downtown Refinery

NAIL SALON JLOUNGE

3003 Walnut St., Boulder

Few things bolster one’s confidence quite like a mani/pedi. At jlounge, everything from the aura of the room to the passionate employees makes for an unforgettable experience. It’s precisely why Boulder County has named jlounge the best nail salon again in 2024.

Silver: Contempo Nails

Bronze: Polish Nail Salon

SILVER

MECHA. Credit: David Harwi Photography

Fitness & Health

ST JULIEN HOTEL AND SPA

900 Walnut St., Boulder

WINNER: BEST MASSAGE, BEST DAY SPA

Elegance, relaxation, decadence — these are words synonymous with the experience you’ll receive during your day at the St Julien Hotel & Spa. A great massage, like the ones given here, can help you forget about the world for a little while. Go experience it for yourself with one of their twelve different therapeutic massages, or one of five massage enhancements, all offered in a top-notch facility. The spa is also home to a steam room, sauna, pool, hot tub and fitness center, as well as a litany of specialty treatments, including a body toning scrub, classic pedicures and more.

DAY SPA

Silver: The Dragontree Spa

Bronze: jlounge Natural Nail Bar & Spa

MASSAGE

Silver: The Dragontree Spa

Bronze: Apex Massage & Recovery Lab

Write-in: Spirit in Harmony

ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC ACUPUNCTURE

CLINIC OF BOULDER

2500 Arapahoe Ave., Unit 290

Erin Pass and her passionate team possess years of experience — it’s no surprise to see the folks at Acupuncture Clinic of Boulder back on top. No matter the reason — pain management, digestive issues, immunity and more — this local practice has what you need to kickstart your health and wellness.

Silver: Boulder Community Acupuncture

Bronze: The Dragontree Spa

VooDoo Hair Lounge. Credit: David Harwi Photography

Fitness & Health BEST OF BOULDER

CHIROPRACTOR APEX CHIROPRACTIC

183 S. Taylor Ave., Unit 162, Louisville

Your back can be your best friend or your worst enemy. At APEX Chiropractic, their work is dedicated to ensuring the former. Founder Shane Kuth and company offer a plethora of services, from athlete recovery to brain injury treatment, prenatal and pediatric chiropractic — the list goes on.

Silver: Boulder Sports Chiropractic

Bronze: The Joint

PHYSICAL THERAPIST ALTA PHYSICAL THERAPY & PILATES

2955 Baseline Road, Boulder

ALTA director Jane Milliff has dedicated over 40 years of her life to physical therapy in all forms, and if you ask her, it’s as fulfilling as the day she started. That’s what you get when you work at a place like ALTA Physical Therapy & Pilates, whose consistent dedication and experienced team make the journey of physical rehabilitation for every client worthwhile and memorable.

Silver: Altitude Physical Therapy

Bronze: Coal Creek Physical Therapy

MEDICAL DOCTOR DR. GEETA LALWANI

1440 28th St., Unit 3, Boulder

No one understands the importance of quality care quite like Dr. Geeta Lalwani and her staff at Rocky Mountain Retina Associates. Their dedication to preserving the vision of countless patients is why Dr. Lalwani stands at the top of the podium this year.

Silver: Dr. Karin Susskind

Bronze: Dr. Krista Toomre

DENTIST NORTH BOULDER DENTAL GROUP

1001 North St., Boulder

We all need to smile more — it’s good for us! At North Boulder Dental Group, their devoted team makes sure your pearly whites inspire selfconfidence, offering everything from tooth cleanings to implants, cosmetic dentistry, fillings and much more.

Silver: Boulder Dental Arts

Bronze: Louisville Dental Associates

Write-in: Alber Dental Studio

Alta Physical Therapy & Pilates. Courtesy: Alta Physical Therapy & Pilates

Fitness & Health

ORTHODONTICS

WONG ORTHODONTICS

3400 Penrose Place, Suite 203, Boulder

A straight smile can be life changing. Dr. Wong, like many of us, had his smile corrected through orthodontic treatment and in the process found a passion for sharing that same experience with others. At Wong Orthodontics, a family-friendly atmosphere and a dedicated staff are just two of the reasons why it’s the preferred spot for our readers.

Silver: Boulder Orthodontics

Bronze: Melcher Orthodontics

LASIK SERVICES

BOULDER EYE SURGEONS

4745 Arapahoe Ave., Suite 100, Boulder

Since 1997, Boulder Eye Surgeons has provided personal care and specialized surgeries. Their equipment is state-ofthe-art, and every patient leaves having gotten quality, personalized treatment.

Silver: Insight VisionGroup and Lasik

Bronze: Eyecare Center of Northern Colorado

URGENT CARE CENTER

BOULDER MEDICAL CENTER

2750 Broadway Unit 100, Boulder

Visiting the urgent care can be unnerving, mostly because you usually didn’t think your day would end up there. Boulder Medical Center knows this experience can be stressful. That’s why they ensure that every trip is met with the utmost care and expertise. The clinic is staffed by board-certified physicians and advanced practitioners seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Silver: AFC Urgent Care

Bronze: BCH Urgent Care

VETERINARY CARE

ALPINE HOSPITAL FOR ANIMALS

3210 Valmont Road, Boulder

Having everything you need in one place, from medical to surgical, dental and alternative care for pets of all shapes and sizes is what makes Alpine Hospital for Animals such a great destination for your furry (or scaly) friends’ needs. Add in over 50 years of operation and a roster of top-of-the-line veterinary experience, and you’ve got our repeat winner for best veterinary care in Boulder County.

Silver: Humane Society of Boulder Valley

Bronze: Rise Vet

Alpine Hospital for Animals. Credit: David Harwi Photography

Retail BEST OF BOULDER

NEW BUSINESS JUST BE KITCHEN

2500 30th St., #101, Boulder

Just BE Kitchen is taking home the popular Best New Business category in this year’s Best of Boulder. This establishment caters to the allergenic among us and offers “mindful mouthfuls” without major allergens like gluten, soy, peanuts and more. Their Boulder location is the newest shop — the two others are in Denver’s LoHi neighborhood and Greenwood Village.

Silver: Sundry Goods

Bronze: Belzer Law

NUDE FOODS MARKET

WINNER: WOMANOWNED COMPANY, INDEPENDENT BUSINESS

3233 Walnut St., Boulder

The average person produces nearly 2,000 pounds of trash each year. Nude Foods is on a mission to change that with a less wasteful grocery experience. The Nude staff contributes to the cause by using the least environmentally impactful delivery containers and by finding farmers using sustainable practices. Order online or head to the store in Boulder, where they have prefilled reusable jars, or you can bring your own.

WOMAN-OWNED COMPANY

Silver: Apex Massage & Recovery Lab

Bronze: Island Farm

INDEPENDENT BUSINESS

Silver: Island Farm

Bronze: MECHA

ACCOUNTANT BOULDER CPA GROUP

1790 30th St., #418, Boulder

Boulder CPA Group is a full-service tax, accounting and business consulting firm that helps area businesses and individuals reach their financial goals. This local team has specialized in tax for small- to medium-sized businesses since 1991 and offers services like IRS representation, entity selection and other tax management services.

Silver: Cahill & Associates, P.C.

Bronze: Johnson Kightlinger & Co.

AUTO DEALERNEW AND USED FLATIRONS SUBARU

5995 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder

Subarus are the unofficial car of choice for Boulderites. From the classic Outback to the sporty WRX, each model fits the job for everything from

Nude Foods Market. Credit: David Harwi Photography

Retail BEST OF BOULDER

long trips into the mountains to Sunday drives to your local Trader Joe’s. That’s why our readers choose Flatirons Subaru for their new or used set of wheels to bring them where they need to go. Plus, the company has high ratings, master technicians on staff and a detail-oriented service center.

AUTO DEALER - NEW

Silver: Fisher

Acura/Honda

Bronze: Valley Subaru of Longmont

AUTO DEALER - USED

Silver: Super Rupair

Bronze: Fisher

Acura/Honda

AUTO SERVICE/REPAIR

HOSHI MOTORS

2907 55th St., Unit 1, Boulder

Locally owned Hoshi Motors can be your one-stop-shop for anything from auto detailing to tire alignments, and with 4.9 stars on Google we know they do it well. The company says it

relies on word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied customers rather than advertising. That’s resulted in winning this coveted award multiple times over their three decades in business.

Silver: Super Rupair

Bronze: Valley Subaru of Longmont

Multiple locations Elevations Credit Union has come a long way from serving 12 members as CU Boulder’s credit union after it was founded in 1952. Today,

the company has more than 170,000 members and 10 locations around Boulder County. They are our readers’ go-to when it comes to investing, preparing for homeownership, borrowing money and more.

Silver: Chase Bank

Bronze: Wells Fargo

Retail BEST OF BOULDER

BICYCLE SHOP FULL CYCLE

CAMERA STORE MIKE’S CAMERA

2500 Pearl St., Boulder

Mike’s Camera has helped people capture special moments and memories since it first opened in 1967. In the intervening decades, Mike’s has expanded to nine stores in Colorado and Northern California. This store is our readers’ pick when it comes to anything photo, from camera rentals to photo processing, printing and everything in between.

Silver: University Bicycles

Bronze: Community Cycles

BOOKSTORE BOULDER BOOK STORE

1107 Pearl St., Boulder

Boulder Book Store’s seemingly endless selection and curation of staff picks, local authors, maps, calendars and more show they do more than sell new and used books — they sell an experience. To us at Boulder Weekly, it’s like walking into a candy emporium, all with McGuckin-level staff kindness, knowledge and precision. By voting Boulder Book Store as the winner of this category, our readers show they feel the same.

Silver: Trident Booksellers & Cafe

Bronze: The Bookworm

Silver: Victory Camera

Bronze: Pro Photo Rental

CAR WASH

GLOSS AUTO WASH & DETAIL

3100 28th St., Boulder

If you think car washes are just to clean your vehicle, Gloss Auto Wash & Detail wants you to think again. Not only do they offer a full auto detail service, but they also have a gift shop and cafe that makes this company just as much of a community gathering place as a car wash. The shop is located off 28th Street for ultimate convenience.

Silver: Breeze Thru Car Wash

Bronze: 95th Street Car Wash

Apocalypse. Credit: Jacqueline Collins Photography

CLOTHING STORECHILDREN’S CHILDISH THINGS

3183 Walnut St., Boulder

Looking for cute outfits for your peanut that won’t break the bank? With second-hand items for babies and toddlers, Childish Things might be the consignment store for you. Check out their website for the latest items on the rack, or find the brick and mortar on Walnut Street.

Silver: Pig + Pearl Secondhand

Bronze: Once Upon a Child

REI

WINNER: CLOTHING STORE - MEN’S, OUTDOOR GEAR

1789 28th St., Boulder

REI might be known for some of the best outdoor equipment the industry has to offer, but our readers know it also holds a wide selection of comfortable and sneaky-stylish garb from ultra-utility pants to casual shirts for the fellas. Along with new clothes from some of the most recognizable brands, swing by their garage sale section to find lightly used and discounted goods and clothing. REI makes it easy to find the right gear too — if you’re not ready to buy or just want to try something out, the rental shop can get you the gear you need.

CLOTHING STOREMEN’S

Silver: Weekends

Bronze: Jax Outdoor Gear

Write-in: Apocalypse

OUTDOOR GEAR

Silver: Neptune

Mountaineering

Bronze: JAX Mercantile

CLOTHING STOREUSED APOCALYPSE

1813 Pearl St., Boulder

You know you’re about to strike gold at

a thrift store when the whole staff is dripping head to toe in cooler outfits than you. Such is the case at Apocalypse — our readers’ favorite spot to find used clothing. This family owned store also strives to create an inclusive environment for the LGBTQ

community and to de-gender fashion while promoting sustainable and conscious consumerism.

Silver: Rags Consignments

Bronze: ARC Thrift Store

CLOTHING STOREWOMEN’S ANTHROPOLOGIE

1805 29th St., Boulder

Located in the 29th Street Mall, Anthropologie sells an assortment of clothing, shoes, accessories, furniture, home décor and more. Shop here with a clean conscience: Their clothing uses ethically sourced goods and their bags are made mostly from recycled material.

Silver: Prana

Bronze: Athleta

Write-in: Island Farm

COMPUTER REPAIR BOULDER MAC REPAIR

2525 Broadway, Boulder

Boulder Mac Repair has served our readers’ computer and tech needs since 2003. While they may specialize in repairs, the team also can help with data management, liquid damage, virus removal and more. The business is driven by values of honesty and fairness — principles founder Sean Patrick adopted as a fully ordained Buddhist Monk.

Silver: Apple Store

Bronze: uBreakiFix

DRY CLEANERS ART CLEANERS

Multiple locations

Art Cleaners is a local full-service dry cleaner with seven locations in Boulder, Broomfield, Longmont, Lafayette and Erie. Our readers call on them for dry cleaning, alterations and leather cleaning. Plus, they use a process called GreenEarth Cleaning that uses silicone for “a kinder clean.”

Silver: John’s Cleaners

Bronze: Boulder Cleaners

FARM BLACK CAT FARMS

4975 Jay Road, Boulder

Black Cat is a 425-acre certified organic farm operated by Jill and Eric Skokan that is an incubator for veggies, livestock and more than 200 heirloom and heritage cultivars using their own grains. Popular dinners at the farm are returning soon (check online for details), or you can try fruits from the farm at the Skokans’ sister restaurant, Bramble & Hare, in downtown Boulder.

Silver: Munson Farms

Bronze: Aspen Moon Farm LLC

Retail BEST OF BOULDER

FINANCIAL ADVISOR EDWARD JONES

Multiple locations

Everyone wants to use their hardearned dollars the right way, and that includes our readers. With over 18,000 financial advisors, Edward Jones is their first choice to help manage their wealth and prepare for the unexpected bumps in the road. Find an advisor for yourself by taking the Starting Point Quiz on their website.

Silver: Oliver Asset Management

Bronze: Raymond James GIFT STORE

PEPPERCORN

1235 Pearl St., Boulder

Right on the bricks of Pearl Street, Peppercorn is a treasure trove of special gifts for birthdays, anniversaries and more. Since Peppercorn opened its doors over 40 years ago, owners have taken pride in embodying the local Boulder spirit. Take a gander through the fully stocked shelves and you’ll find everything from kitchenware and decor to books, toys and games that rival the inventory of big box stores.

Silver: Jacque Michelle

Bronze: Cheese Importers Write-in: Island Farm

GROCERY STORE KING SOOPERS

Multiple locations

We don’t take it personally that the owner of King Soopers, Kroger Co., removed free publications (including alt-weeklies like yours truly) from its stores in September 2019, and neither do our readers. King Soopers checks all the boxes you want from a grocery store: Its shelves are always stocked with options, high-quality produce and good prices. (That is, except for the box with the most recent edition of Boulder Weekly.)

Silver: Lucky’s Market

Bronze: Natural Grocers Write-in: Niwot Market

HARDWARE STORE MCGUCKIN HARDWARE

2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder

We’re not surprised our readers voted McGuckin Hardware once again as their hardware store of choice. We know the selection, we know the service, we know the vests. This local institution takes it to the next level in many ways, including the live string quartet that plays in the middle of the store around the end of the year.

Silver: JAX Lafayette Farm & Ranch

Bronze: Table Mesa Hardware

McGuckin Hardware. Credit: David Harwi Photography

NEWEST COMMUNITY DESIGNED TO CREATE SHARED SPACES & MOMENTS THAT BRING NEIGHBORS TOGETHER!

Retail BEST OF BOULDER

HOTEL ST JULIEN HOTEL & SPA

900 Walnut St., Boulder

Located in downtown Boulder, St Julien prides itself in combining luxurious style with gracious service. Visiting town? With first-class views of the Flatirons and a range of rooms and suites, St Julien is one of the finest hotels in Boulder.

Living on the Front Range?

Indulge in the company’s spa or its award-winning restaurant as a special treat.

Silver: Hotel Boulderado

Bronze: Chautauqua cottages and lodges

JEWELRY STORE SCHAPELL JEWELERS

3163 Walnut St., Boulder

Whether you’re buying for that special someone, treating yourself or repairing a family keepsake, Schapell Jewelers has you covered. The business has operated in town since 1964 and employs some of the most knowledgeable and customer-service oriented staff the industry has to offer.

Silver: Hurdle’s Jewelry

Bronze: Walters & Hogsett Fine Jewelers

Write-in: Island Farm

LAW FIRM

FRASCONA, JOINER, GOODMAN & GREENSTEIN PC

4750 Table Mesa Drive, Boulder

Over the past five decades, Frascona, Joiner, Goodman and Greenstein, PC has offered a range of legal services for clients throughout the state. The company has over 20 attorneys on staff and practices in numerous areas, including real estate, mediation, business law, taxation, water law and construction. They have a track record of winning this category, and it’s no surprise to us our readers voted them here again.

Silver: Hutchinson Black & Cook, LLC

Bronze: Berg Hill Greenleaf Ruscitti, LLP

Write-in: Moorhead Law Group

LIQUOR STORE HAZEL’S BEVERAGE WORLD

1955 28th St., Boulder

Hazel’s says they offer the county’s largest selection of wine, beer, spirits, specialty foods and more. The store shelves more than 15,000 products in a 35,000 square-foot facility. They don’t just sell copious amounts of alcohol — check out their website for special tasting events, too.

Silver: Wyatt’s Wet Goods

Bronze: Superior Liquor

Lily at Hazel’s Beverage World. Credit: David Harwi Photography

Retail BEST OF BOULDER

MOVING COMPANY TAYLOR MOVING

1275 Sherman Drive, Unit B, Longmont

Moving can be a lot of work, but our readers choose Taylor Moving for a smooth and effortless moving experience. The company, which moves both homes and businesses in addition to providing storage, operates all along the Front Range and can even handle transitions across the country.

Silver: Free Range Movers

Bronze: Pink Dot Moving

MUSIC STORE H.B. WOODSONGS

3101 28th St., Boulder

After starting as Folk Arts Music in 1971, H.B. Woodsongs has blossomed into a mainstay in Boulder’s music landscape. The staff, who are also musicians, take pride in knowing the ins-and-outs of every instrument in the store, including ukuleles, mandolins, autoharps, Native American flutes and guitars. Woodsongs also provides lessons and repairs.

Silver: Wildwood Guitars

Bronze: The Drum Shop

NATURAL FOODS STORE

NATURAL GROCERS

Multiple locations

Natural Grocers has served communities across the state, including Boulder, Longmont and Lafayette with quality produce and affordable rates for more than 50 years. Our readers pick this grocery store out of the bunch because of its consistent prices and variety of departments, including body care, bulk foods, organic produce and pet products.

Silver: Trader Joe’s

Bronze: Whole Foods

OPTICAL STORE ENVISION BOULDER

1011 Pearl St., Boulder

Located on the west end of Pearl Street, Envision Boulder provides comprehensive eye care that includes holistic exams, myopia management and contact lens fitting, all from the assistance of a passionate team of optometrists. If you’re looking for new glasses, the office cuts lenses to fit your desired frame right on site.

Silver: Aspen Eyewear

Bronze: Eyecare Center of Northern Colorado

Write-in: The Optical Centre

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

BIRD FOOD • FEEDERS GARDEN ACCENTS • UNIQUE GIFTS

Wild Birds Unlimited is your locally owned destination for high-quality bird seed, suet, feeders, bird baths, gifts, and more. Bring the joy of bird feeding to your backyard. Shop On-Line or In-Store today!

Wild Birds Unlimited

Arvada / Broomfield 7370 W 88th Ave. 303-467-2644

Denver / Lakewood

2720 S Wadsworth Blvd. 303-987-1065

Highlands Ranch / Centennial

1970 E County Line Rd. 720-634-4975

Aurora / Parker

18666 E Hampden Ave. 720-516-1374

Shop Online: www.wildbirdscolorado.com

PET BOARDING COTTONWOOD KENNELS

7275 Valmont Road, Boulder

Our readers feel more comfortable knowing their good boys and girls are well taken care of when life pulls them away. Found on a farm east of Boulder, Cottonwood Kennels is the perfect vacation for your pet. They even have a special second floor that is quiet for kitty cats. Base rates for cats and other small animals start at $35.95 a day, and can reach up to $76.95 a day for larger dogs.

Silver: Camp Bow Wow

Bronze: Bowhaus

Write-in: Updog Daycare

PET STORE PC’S PANTRY

2828 30th St., Boulder

After starting in a small house on Walnut Street more than 25 years ago, Mary Lee has grown PC’s Pantry into a pet’s (and owner’s) dream. The store is full of all kinds of toys, food and treats for your four-legged friend. All dogs and cats are welcome to roam inside PC’s too, where “treats will be shared freely.”

Silver: Whole Pets

Bronze: BlackPaw

PC’s Pantry. Credit: David Harwi Photography

Retail BEST OF BOULDER

REAL ESTATE GROUP RE/MAX OF BOULDER

2425 Canyon Blvd., Suite 110, Boulder

A home purchase is a big decision – especially in today’s market. Our readers turn to Re/Max of Boulder to help all their house hunting dreams come true. With over 100 agents to choose from, the company can match you with the best agent for your needs. From marketing strategies to help your home sell faster to data and technology that make finding the right house easier, Re/Max has you covered regardless of the type and level of service you need.

Silver: 8z Real Estate

Broze: Compass Real Estate

Write-in: Live West Realty

SHOE STORE PEDESTRIAN SHOPS

1425 Pearl St., Boulder

2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder

From hitting the trails to hitting the town and lounging in between, Pedestrian Shops has been serving Boulderites and beyond for more than 50 years. The family-owned store with two locations in Boulder and one in Denver prides itself on offering “the world’s most comfortable brands of shoes” including Blundstones, Birkenstocks and Hokas. Its owners also pride themselves on making the world a better place — the store supports a variety of nonprofits, holds two shoe drives each year and aims to reduce its carbon footprint through recyclable boxes and solar energy.

Silver: Brown’s Shoe Fit

Bronze: Two Sole Sisters

Write-in: In Motion Running

Pedestrian Shops. Credit: David Harwi Photography

SKI/SNOWBOARD SHOP

EPIC MOUNTAIN GEAR

2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder

It’s no secret that hitting the slopes is one of Colorado’s favorite — and most expensive — pastimes. For all their gnar-shredding needs, our readers turn to Epic Mountain Gear. With locations across the Front Range, the shop sells gear and apparel in addition to expert boot fitting and tuning services.

Silver: Christy Sports

Bronze: REI

STEREO/ ELECTRONICS LISTENUP

2034 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder

When it comes to the crispest, cleanest sound, our readers head to ListenUp. With more than a half-century of experience, you’re in the hands of professionals. That experience includes designing and building a sound system that drew praise from the likes of Miles Davis, U2 and The Police. The ListenUp team also installed sound systems for Folsom Field, Mile High Stadium and Ball Arena. Whether you’re in need of a new speaker system or an entire integrated tech system that can “transform ordinary spaces into sanctuaries for the senses,” ListenUp has you covered.

Silver: Mike’s Camera

Bronze: Absolute Vinyl

Retail BEST OF BOULDER

STORAGE FACILITY GUARDIAN STORAGE

Multiple locations

Storage and security can be a headache, but not at Guardian Storage. Have a body to hide?

Guardian’s got climate controlled units with motion sensors and individually alarmed units. Don’t want to get your car dirty transporting that body? Guardian gives you a free moving truck during your move in. Need to dispose of incriminating documents? Head to one of Guardian’s free shred-it events. No matter what you have to hide, Guardian will guard it. (Editor’s note: Boulder Weekly and Guardian Storage do not endorse murder or improper disposal of corpses and criminal evidence.)

Silver: Arapahoe Self Storage

Bronze: Life Storage

TATTOO/PIERCING PARLOR

RISING TIDE TATTOO

3193 Walnut St., Boulder

Rising Tide Tattoo has come a long way since Phill Bartell founded the business as a one-man shop on Pearl Street. Nearly 20 years later, the shop has added two tattooers and moved to Walnut Street, but still provides this town with top-tier tattoos our readers love.

Silver: Tribal Rites

Bronze: Claw and Talon Tattoo

Rising Tide Tattoo. Credit: David Harwi Photography

Quality Child Care

Thank You For Voting Us Best Day Care Center!

Our mission is to provide the highest quality of child care available at an affordable rate while maintaining the highest standards achievable with well-trained, quality staff and excellent child/adult ratios. Learn more on our website below!

303.665.9741

takeabreakchildren.com

418 High Street, Lyons, CO 80540

303-498-5941

www.lyonshealthandwellness.com

Our mission at Lyons Health & Wellness is to achieve vitality and balance that creates a happier and healthier life for you!

When you book a tele-health or in-person appointment with us, you’ll find the comfort and support missing from modern healthcare while we create a personalized, comprehensive, and holistic plan of care just for you. Together.

Megan Foreman FNP-C

Retail BEST OF BOULDER

TIRE SHOP

DISCOUNT TIRE

Multiple locations

Did you know the first rubber tire was invented in 1888 by John Boyd Dunlop? Although that is pushing 140 years ago now, our readers know how important it is to have a good set of those bad boys to bring us from point A to B. Find Discount Tire in Boulder, Lafayette or Longmont.

Our team of over 85 primary and specialty care providers is here for you across five convenient locations in Boulder, Louisville, Erie, and Longmont. Find a Doctor That’s Right for

You.

Learn more.

Schedule an appointment.

bouldermedicalcenter.com

Silver: Barnsley Tire Co.

Bronze: Big O Tires

TOBACCO/PIPE SHOP

THE FITTER

1121 13th St., Boulder

Since 1973, The Fitter has served the good people of Boulder with the best customer service, merch and the top glass and pipes in the biz. This locally owned cultural cornerstone is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. As it says on Fitter’s website: “Toke it easy & have a great jay!”

Silver: Smoker Friendly

Bronze: Little Dog Pipe & Tobacco

TOY STORE

GRANDRABBIT’S TOY SHOPPE

2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder

Looking to put a smile on a young person’s face? From Lava and Ice Dragons to a My Barnyard Friends Playset and the Ultimate Unicorn Baking Party, Grandrabbit’s Toy Shoppe has an impressive array of options in all shapes and sizes for every kid from toddlers to grown-up kids.

Silver: Into the Wind

Bronze: Time Warp Comics

VINYL/CD STORE

PARADISE FOUND RECORDS & MUSIC

1646 Pearl St., Boulder

After being one of Bart Stinchcomb’s top customers since 2008, Will Paradise took over Bart’s Record Shop on Pearl Street in 2016 and started Paradise Found Records & Music. The shop, open seven days a week, has a fabulous collection of new and used records, CDs, cassettes and more to keep Boulder vibing. Looking for what’s in Boulder’s headphones? Check out Boulder Weekly’s roundup of the top records sold at Paradise Found every month.

Silver: Absolute Vinyl

Bronze: Recycled Records

Grandrabbit’s Toy Shoppe. Credit: David Harwi Photography

To show our appreciation, we are offering these great values for a LIMITED TIME ONLY!

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We appreciate all your support! 2 FREE

DOCTOR’S CHOICE® PILLOWS

DOCTOR’S CHOICE® MATTRESSES

At Denver Mattress, we consistently strive to give you the very best mattress shopping experience possible. Come in and let one of our knowledgeable sales consultants custom fit you to the mattress that is exactly right for you. THANKS

QUALITY Products you can trust and our customers love SERVICE Nationally recognized for years as one of the very best SELECTION The best selection of the best brands VALUE Our 365-Night Guarantee plus prices that can’t be beat

Why shop anywhere else?

Denver Mattress also carries the best selection of the best mattress brands including Tempur-Pedic®, Stearns & Foster®, Sealy®, Purple®, Aireloom®, and Doctor’s Choice®.

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