Best Food & Drink

BEST AMERICAN RESTAURANT and BEST RESTAURANT

Mike O’Shays Restaurant & Ale House

512 Main St., Longmont, (303) 772-0252, mikeoshays.com

Mike Shea, owner of O’shay’s Restaurant has a lot to be proud of, but that doesn’t mean he’s resting on his laurels. “We’re happy to win best overall restaurant 9 years in a row and though we may owe some of that to being the longest running restaurant in town, that doesn’t mean we don’t change.” In fact, keeping things fresh is the basis of the business. Fresh ingredients for fresh made soups and signature salads, steaks cut in-house and a menu that stays fresh by changing with the seasons. As spring leans into summer, expect to see seasonal Maine lobster rolls, duck l’orange with a house-made confit, and more seasonal standouts added to the constant favorites like the seafood chowder and classic fish and chips. “It’s always a balance between the familiar and new ideas,” says Shea.

Speaking of striking a balance, don’t forget to balance your entrée with your sweet tooth cheesecakes, layer cakes, bread puddings and more, all created by Nania Shea, are the perfect note on which to end your meal.

If you’ve somehow missed O’shays, take advantage of the daily specials for both lunch and dinner See what they are before you venture out—visit O’shays Facebook page for up-to-date info.

BEST AMERICAN RESTAURANT

Second: Pumphouse Brewery, 540 Main St., Longmont (303) 702-0881, pumphousebrewery.com

Third: Aunt Alice’s Kitchen, 1805 Main St, Longmont, (303) 651-0495 facebook.com/pages/Aunt-Alices-Kitchen/102191779824133

BEST RESTAURANT

Second: Sugarbeet, 101 Pratt St., Longmont, (303) 651-3330, sugarbeetrestaurant.com

Third: Pumphouse Brewery, 540 Main St., Longmont, (303) 702-0881, pumphousebrewery.com

Best Appetizers

TGI Fridays

125 Ken Pratt Blvd, Longmont, (303) 485-8004, tgifridays.com

The word “apps” used to be associated with food not phones. For those who remember and those who need to be introduced, TGI Fridays extends a wide welcome with their appetizers big enough to share. Get your potstickers and sliders, dips and cheese sticks, nachos and flatbreads and wings, wings, wings—boneless or traditional in classic flavors like buffalo and BBQ, or get a little wild with flavors like PB & J, or Miso. Of course, with all those apps, it might be hard to save room for your entree and even harder to squeeze in dessert, but try, you’ll thank yourself later

Second: Pumphouse Brewery, 540 Main St., Longmont, (303) 702-0881 pumphousebrewery.com

Third: Chili’s, 1245 S Hover Rd, Longmont, (303) 684-6455, chilis.com

BEST ASIAN RESTAURANT Royal Wok

950 Main St., Longmont, (303) 682-9297 royalwoklongmont.com

Linda and Qian Liang, owners of Royal Wok love to feed hungry customers every day Receiving this award tells them they’re doing something right. Lunch specials run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., plus all day, every day happy hour means those who dine at Royal Wok enjoy tasty foods, drinks and savings.

The party tray is a popular menu item for families and large groups. It feeds four people for 27 bucks. “It’s a very good deal with a lot of food. It’s great for birthday parties,” says Linda Qian. “Customers say our food tastes fresh, especially the seafood and meat.” And gluten-free fans love the menu options too.

Second: Tasty Asia Restaurant, 736 Main St., #8 Longmont, (303) 772-6888 tastyasiarestaurant.com

Third: East Moon Asian Bistro, 2144 Main St. Unit 1, Longmont, (303) 684-8383 eastmoonlongmont.com

BEST BAGEL Einstein Bros. Bagels

311 Clover Basin Dr., Longmont (303) 651-9063 einsteinbros.com

What makes Einstein Bros. different from other bagel shops? They might have a corporate upbringing, but General Manager Michelle Tafoya says they work hard to bring out that warm, friendly atmosphere. “We try to make customers feel like they are at home,” she says. “We know most of our customers by name.”

Since most customers are headed to work—they have little time to spare. That’s why Tafoya says it’s important to run an efficient operation where customers can grab and go. Staff sometimes process orders quicker than customers place orders, she says. That’s because they know the regulars well. Plus, it helps being part mind reader

Second: Big Daddy Bagels

1940 Ionosphere St., Ste. D Longmont, (303) 834-8237 bigdaddybagels.comcastbiz.net

Third: Panera Bread, 425 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, (303) 702-1000 panerabread.com

Whether Raluca and Robertino Ioan, owners of Romana Cake House are preparing confections for your graduation, anniversary or employee party—there’s no shortage of selection. With 150 dessert choices, it’s hard to say which tastes the best.

Take your pick—from cupcakes to layered red velvet cakes, to mounds of cookies, blueberry muffins and fresh strawberry cream pies.

The Ioans take pride in giving their customers treats that tantalize. “We care about our customers and the product we are creating. I think quality, presentation and customer service are what put us above the rest,” says Raluca.

If you don’t see what you’re looking for, just ask them to make it. Raluca probably has a tasty recipe in her kitchen. But if she doesn’t, customers can bring one in from grandma’s recipe box.

“We recreate recipes for our customers. It’s usually something their mother or grandmother used to make and they have those fond memories about those recipes.”

BEST BAKERY

Second: La Momo Maes Bakery, 624 Kimbark St., Longmont, (303) 834-8502, longmontbakery.com

Third: Panera Bread, 425 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, (303) 702-1000, panerabread.com

Best Dessert

Second: The Rib House, 1920 Coffman St., Longmont, (303) 485-6988, theribhouse.com

Third: Mike O’Shays Restaurant & Ale House, 512 Main St., Longmont, (303) 772-0252, mikeoshays.com

BEST BAR and BEST HAPPY HOUR and BEST BREWERY/ALE HOUSE and BEST OUTDOOR DINING Pumphouse Brewery

540 Main St., Longmont, (303) 702-0881, pumphousebrewery.com

With wins in four different categories this year, Pumphouse Brewery is clearly a Longmont favorite. Ross Hagen, one of five partners, says there is no magic going on here, just good ol’ fashioned hard work. Hagen tries to envision what the customer will see from fork to plate to cup, as if he were sitting at the booth or bar placing the order

“I like to go out, dine and enjoy the hospitality industry and I want to make sure I’m providing a service that fills a niche,” he says.

Customers have no shortage of choices, and when that panic sets in after perusing through 10 to 14 varieties of beer on tap, it’s nice to know you can play it safe and order the sampler—unless you prefer one of 50 bottled varieties.

During regular happy hour from 3 to 6 pm M-F, customers receive $1 off all Pumphouse pints, liquor, cocktails and wine, as well as $4 Long Islands and $2 off all appetizers. Missed happy hour? Don’t worry, there are more drink specials from 10 p.m. to Midnight everyday

The huge streetside patio beckons as the days and nights grow warm. It’s the perfect place to tip back one of those award-winning brews. An excellent bar and brewery with a great happy hour and loads of comfortable, outdoor seating? Pumphouse Brewery is a summer must-do.

Best Bar

Second: Mike O’Shays Restaurant & Ale House 512 Main St., Longmont, (303) 772-0252 mikeoshays.com

Third: Breakers Grill, 380 Main St., Longmont (303) 772-3839, longmontrestaurants.co

BEST HAPPY HOUR

Second: Mike O’Shays Restaurant & Ale House 512 Main St., Longmont, (303) 772-0252 mikeoshays.com

Third: Old Chicago, 1805 Industrial Circle, Longmont (303) 651-7000, oldchicago.com

BEST BREWERY/ALE HOUSE

Second: Mike O’Shays Restaurant & Ale House 512 Main St., Longmont, (303) 772-0252 mikeoshays.com

Third: Breakers Grill, 380 Main St., Longmont (303) 772-3839, longmontrestaurants.co

BEST BARBECUE and BEST CARBON VALLEY RESTAURANT Georgia boys BBQ Company

The Shack, 237 Collyer St., Longmont, (720) 999-4099 // The Smokehouse, 141 5th St. Frederick, (303) 833-3140 // georgiaboysbbqcompany.com

When it comes to good BBQ—there’s no need to rush. Co-owners Matt Alexander and Nick Reckinger say it’s all about slow cooking to perfection. “Sometimes it takes two nights to cook the soups, gumbos, and red beans and rice,” says Alexander.

Wondering why it tastes so good? It starts with authentic recipes from mom’s recipe box—Donna Alexander.

It also helps when pit masters have some serious know-how about amping up the flavor with spices from Boulder’s Savory Spice Shop. These guys are “rubbin’ and smokin’ from 6a to 6p”. Choice cuts of brisket and premium spices send your taste buds into a flavor revolution.

Hats off to the Carbon Valley location where southern hospitality and friendly conversation flows like icy beers on a hot day There you’ll find daily specials, a full service bar and soup and salad assortments.

Not sure what to order? Alexander says the super juicy “burnt ends,” brisket never lasts long—so order em’ early or opt for a tangy slab of fingerlickin’ ribs.

BEST BARBECUE

Second: The Rib House, 1920 Coffman St., Longmont, (303) 485-6988, theribhouse.com

Third: House of Q, 1940 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, (303) 923-7427, houseofqbbq.com

BEST CARBON VALLEY RESTAURANT

Second: Hacienda Jalisco, 6160 Firestone Blvd., Firestone, (303) 684-9133 facebook.com/pages/Hacienda-Jalisco/143710242360676

Third: Red Rooster Restaurant, 4330 CO-66, Longmont, (970) 535-0889 facebook.com/pages/Red-Rooster-Restaurant/152512004789706

BEST BREAKFAST/BRUNCH and PIE Goodfella’s Restaurant and Bakery

623 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, (303) 485-7000, eatatgoodfellas.com

For comfort food any time of day, Goodfella’s Restaurant and Bakery is the place. Offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, all day, every day, the family-owned restaurant is defined by convenience and quality Owner Jeff Price, says value is also a big part of the Goodfella’s philosophy

“Our food is great portions for good prices,” Price says. “We have a great comfort food menu that people love.”

That well-loved menu includes 12 varieties of pie in flavors like apple, pecan, chocolate, banana and coconut cream. To make things sweeter, specials include a Free Pie Night on Tuesday and Sunday.

The menu isn’t the only thing that customers appreciate about Goodfella’s. Excellent customer service keeps people coming back.

“We value each customer and work personally with them every day,” Price says. “We care about our customers and that’s why we have such a loyal clientele.”

Open for 2 years , Goodfella’s looks forward to a future in Longmont. “This is where we grew up,” Price says. “We love our town and we love the people in it.”

BEST BREAKFAST/BRUNCH

Second: Lucile’s Creole Cafe, 518 Kimbark St., Longmont, (303) 774-9814, luciles.com

Third: Mac’s Place, 640 Pace St., Unit 400 Longmont, (303) 678-8929, macsplaceco.com

BEST BURGER CHUBurger

1225 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, (303) 485-2482, eat.oskarblues.com/chuburger

Oskar Blues’ attempt to revolutionize fast, casual dining in the form of CHUBurger has clearly been successful, and Chef/Owner, Jason Rogers, says the Longmont community has been vital to that success. “They embrace startups and champion growth and success,” he says.

In addition to beef from the local Oskar Blues Hops and Heifers Farm, one can also get a burger made with pork, salmon or buffalo. Rogers says ingredients are everything at CHUBurger “Every ingredient has a purpose and every employee believes in what we put on every burger,” Rogers says. “That passion shows everyday.”

Second: Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, 2331 Clover Basin Dr., Longmont (720) 652-9229, RedRobin.com

Third: Five Guys Burgers and Fries, 1708 Main St., Longmont (303) 485-8924, fiveguys.com

Best Pie

Second: Loaf & Ladle,1134 Francis St, Longmont, (303) 776-7575

Third: Perkins Restaurant and Bakery, 2051 Main St., Longmont, (303) 772-1410 perkinsrestaurants.com

BEST BURRITO Santiago’s Mexican Restaurants

215 Main St., Longmont, (303) 772-1169, eatatsantiagos.com

After 14 years in Longmont, Santiago’s customers can still find a taste of Mexico that is “authentic, affordable and always fresh,” Craig Morales, co-owner with his wife Annette, says.

“We believe we only have one chance to impress a customer,” Morales says. One consistent customer-pleaser is Santiago’s selection of burritos. Though breakfast and lunch are a treat, Morales says the most popular deluxe burritos, like the beef and bean, and steak are “good for afternoon and nighttime.”

Although the burritos can be served plain, Morales says customers often return for the green chile. Available in hot, mild or half-and-half— inside or smothered. Make it deluxe- smothered with lettuce, cheese and tomato on top.

Second: Chipotle Mexican Grill, In Longmont: 1100 Ken Pratt Blvd. Unit B (303) 651-6763 // 1708 Main St., (303) 485-6369 // chipotle.com

Third: Deli Cioso Mexican Restaurant & Cantina, 1217 S. Main St., (303) 651-3327 facebook.com/pages/Deli-Cioso-West-Mexican-Restaurant/185345180139

BEST COFFEEHOUSE Ziggi’s Coffee House

In Longmont: 400 Main St., (303) 682-5120 // 1729

Hover St., (303) 682-5120 // 1139 Francis St., (303) 682-5120 // 1221 S. Main St., (303) 682-5120 // ziggiscoffee.com

Ziggi’s Coffee has the best staff of any coffee shop, according to owner Brandon Knudsen. “Our managers and baristas are phenomenal, off the charts,” he said.

Open for 10 years, Ziggi’s products also set them apart, said Knudsen. They use Coda coffee, named “Denver roaster of the year” last year, and other local products and suppliers, including Royal Crest Dairy, Breadworks from Boulder, and Longmont’s La Momo Maes for sweets. Knudsen maintains Ziggi’s drive-through speed is better than its competitors, and its downtown store is a second home for many customers. “They come to hang out and bump into people. The atmosphere is high energy and upbeat, very comfortable and warm, (which is) largely created by our customers.”

Second: La Vita Bella Coffeehouse, 475 Main St, Longmont, (720) 204-6298 longmontcoffee.com

Third: Red Frog Coffee, 15 Ken Pratt Blvd., Ste. 200, Longmont, (303) 772-7209 redfrogcoffee.com

We are ever so grateful for your vote and promise to live up to the expectation as

BEST DELI and BEST SERVICE and BEST SANDWICH/SUB

Subworks Deli 1104 Francis St., Longmont, (303) 774-7000, subworksdeli.com

Some promising changes are afoot at Longmont’s well-loved sub shop, Subworks Deli. Not only is the food getting a makeover, with even more elements made in-house, from scratch, like avocado spread, tzatziki sauce and broccoli cheese soup, but also, the storefront will be moving to a larger space in the same shopping center The local favorite saw a need to expand.

“We’re going to be going from 16 seats to 46,” says owner, Tim Test. “With only 16 seats it gets crowded quick, so we’re looking forward to a nice, new spot. There will be plenty of Wifi and Internet and plug-ins to encourage the business lunch to come in.” There is no set grand opening, but Test invites customers to come in for updates on progress over the summer Another exciting change is extended hours. Starting May 1, Subworks Deli will be open until Midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Community is a major part of the Subworks Deli philosophy and Test hopes that these changes will help the shop better serve the Longmont people.

“Being locally owned and everything we really have a sense of community,” Test says. “I think of us as the Cheers of subs shops – you want to go where everybody knows your name. We don’t think of them as customers but as friends and guests.”

BEST DELI

Second: Your Butcher Frank, 900 Coffman St., Longmont (303) 772-3281

Third: The Brooklyn Deli & Grill, 1515 Main St. Longmont, (303) 684-8400, thebrooklyndeli.com

Best Fast Food Restaurant

BEST RESTAURANT SERVICE

Second: Goodfella’s Restaurant and Bakery 623 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, (303) 485-7000 eatatgoodfellas.com

Third: City Cafe, 1442 Nelson Rd., Longmont (720) 204-6634

Wendy’s In Longmont: 1905 N. Main St., (303) 776-4431 1091 S. Hover Rd., (303) 772-1091 // 4133 County Rd. 24, (303) 702-0265 // wendys.com

Since 1969, “Quality is our Recipe” has been the Wendy’s motto. Using the freshest ingredients and an attention to quality is a Wendy’s top priority What began as a single old fashioned hamburger restaurant in Columbus, Ohio, has now become a global icon in the fast-food industry The three Longmont locations are no exception.

Originally founded by Dave Thomas with the intention to sell quality, old-fashioned hamburgers to the public, the present-day Wendy’s menu is extensive with menu selections ranging from hamburgers and kid’s meals to baked potatoes, wraps, salads and a national favorite, the “Frosty.”

Second: Chick-Fil-A, 215 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, (303) 772-9642, chick-fil-a.com

Third: Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, 2250 Main St., Longmont, (303) 776-4101, freddysusa.com

Best Food Truck

BEST SANDWICH/SUB

Second: Snarf’s Sub Shop, 645 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont (303) 774-1441 eatsnarfs.com

Third: Subway, In Longmont: 1635 Pace St., E-4 Fox Creek Village, (303) 776-9995 // 1801 Hover St., (303) 651-2227 // 630 N. Main St., (303) 776-3023 // subway.com

Comida (720) 204-6455, check eatcomida.com for locations

What could possibly be better than a Mexican restaurant? How about a bright pink food truck serving authentic Mexican food on wheels? Well, Comida—the food truck—makes the authentic Mexican food on wheels fantasy, a Colorado reality

The Comida truck travels throughout Colorado’s Front Range office parks and communities feeding customers with simple, consistent and delicious authentic Mexican flavors. The Comida truck is big enough to cook all the menu items on-site. The Comida menu includes: tacos, tostadas, quesadillas and gorditas.

“Our food is delicious, we’re consistent, and we love to make friends,” Rayme Rossello, owner and operator, says. “Every single menu item is made by us. We don’t open cans and our food is 100 percent homemade.”

Second: Waffle Cakes, wafflecakes.com

Third: Oskar Blues Bonewagon, eat.oskarblues.com

BEST ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURT

Menchie’s Main Street Marketplace

1749 N. Main St., Unit C, Longmont, (720) 378-4247, facebook.com/menchiesmainstreetmarketplace

Audra Gallogly, owner of Menchie’s Main Street Marketplace, is enthusiastic about the frozen yogurt, but she believes there’s something more she offers. “We have a great tasting product,” she says, “but more than anything we sell smiles.”

She explains that all Menchie’s frozen yogurt is made from milk produced by “happy cows in California”—that is, cows that haven’t undergone artificial growth hormone treatment. The flavors are diverse and unique, and the selection even includes options for those with food allergies or lactose intolerance.

“We pay special attention to requests,” Gallogly says. When someone requests a specific flavor, she makes it a point to order it and have it in the shop within weeks. The next time you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat, pay Menchie’s a visit.

Second: Cold Stone Creamery, 551 S. Hover Rd.,Longmont, Inside Target (720) 864-4393 // 1087 S. Hover St., Ste. B, Longmont, (303) 682-5680, coldstonecreamery.com

Third: Scrumptious, 508 Main St., Longmont, (303) 682-2639, scrumptiousco.com

Best Italian Restaurant

Pinocchios Restaurant 210 Ken Pratt Blvd. #216, Longmont, (303) 651-7828, pinocchios-st.com

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT Flavor of India

516 Main St., Longmont, (303) 682-9010, flavorofindialongmont.com

Co-owned by father-and-son team Hardilprit and Daman Singh, Flavor of India has been serving the Longmont community with robust flavors and aromas since 2006. Between Daman’s 11 years of restaurant experience and his father’s 25 years of Indian cooking experience, Flavor of India is the go-to restaurant for authentic, high-quality Indian meals.

“We are a family owned business, dedicated to delivering the finest of Indian food with the freshest ingredients,” Daman Singh says.

Menu selections include a variety of curries, tandoori (dishes prepared in a clay oven) and fresh naan.

Second: Everest Restaurant, 2130 N. Main St. Unit 15, Longmont (720) 204-2270, everestrestaurantlongmont.com

With red-and-white checkered tablecloths, linen napkins, flowers on tables and carpeted floors to reduce noise, and a menu filled with items like lasagna and spaghetti and meatballs, Pinocchios strives to offer a “good independent place to go” for traditional Italian in Longmont, said Annie Vick, owner Gluten-free and vegan options also bring a unique flair to the restaurant, alongside a specialty menu with a variety of lighter items. “We serve great food focusing on getting to know guests,” Vick said. Their menu is served all day long, all desserts are homemade, and the private east room is ideal for banquets and overflow “We have a cozy and comfortable atmosphere so people can relax,” Vick said. “It is not in our scenario to rush people out.”

Second: Ragazzi Italian Grill, 1135 Francis St., Longmont, (303) 651-2828, ragazzigrill.com

Best Lunch

Sun Rose Café & Fine Foods

379 Main St., Longmont, (303) 651-3533, sunrosecafe.com

Third: Racheli’s Italian Deli, 338 Main St., Longmont, 303-682-5000, rachelisitalian.com

When you think about lunch, what are two things that come to mind? If it’s convenience and good food, then Sun Rose Café and Fine Foods should be on your list.

With a convenient Main St. location, it makes an excellent stop for your mid-day break or a nice place to linger over a long lunch with a friend.

Owner Steven Carlson says that Sun Rose Café opened in 2009 with “the idea that all foods should be served with only fresh, all natural ingredients that free from preservatives and with minimal processing.” This philosophy is what people love.

“I believe people enjoy joining us as we are focused on using only high quality ingredients and are willing to accommodate all dietary concerns,” he says.

Second: Mac’s Place, 1640 Pace St., Unit 400, Longmont, (303) 678-8929 macsplaceco.com

Third: Cheese Importers, 103 Main St., Longmont, (303) 772-9599 cheeseimporters.com

BEST MARGARITA and BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT 3 Margaritas Family Mexican Restaurant

In Longmont: 2350 Main St., (303) 682-0888 // 1268 Hover St., (303) 772-8486 // 3margaritaslongmont.com

At 3 Margaritas, the original margarita is always made from scratch, never from mixes, and includes fresh lime juice, Cointreau, and the patron’s choice of tequila. According to Manager Juan Rodriguez, in addition to its margaritas, the restaurant is also known for “consistent quality and presentable plates.”

“I learned from a famous chef years ago that people eat with their eyes, and I believe that is true,” he said. Using the highest quality ingredients in their salsas, meats and other dishes, 3 Margaritas serves food in a friendly atmosphere that Rodriguez says “makes it feel like home.”

On Monday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m., 3 Margaritas features a mariachi band. “Customers love it,” Rodriguez said. They come to celebrate special events on Mondays or just to enjoy the mariachi. “When you combine all these things… location is important, but it’s also important to be consistent with food and service and the way you treat customers. That’s all you need.”

Best Margarita

Second: Comida Cantina, 721 Confidence Dr., Unit 1, Longmont (720) 204-6455, eatcomida.com

Third: La Mariposa Restaurant & Margarita House, 1240 Ken Pratt Blvd. Longmont, (303) 772-6288, lamariposamexicanrestaurant.com

Best Mexican Restaurant

Second: Santiago’s Mexican Restaurants, 215 Main St., Longmont (303) 772-1169, eatatsantiagos.com

Third: Efrain’s Mexican Restaurant and Cantina, 451 S. Pratt Pkwy., Longmont (720) 494-0777, efrainsrestaurant.com

BEST MARTINI Martini’s Bistro

543 Terry St., Longmont, (303) 651-2772 martinisbistro.com

Making a martini is art. Making it into art is an achievement.

“In the past martinis have been intimidating. We’ve taken the intimidation out of the classic and turned it into a lively cocktail to celebrate your day,” says Shannon Stansbury, general manager Housed in a turn-of-the-century Victorian home, Martini’s Bistro is a casually upscale restaurant offering more than 30 artistic varieties of the popular martini cocktail. By mixing different spirits with unexpected liqueurs and juices an artistic creation is achieved.

“With summer coming, we’re doing a lot of house-made infused vodkas and gins with fresh, seasonal flavors. People are really loving those,” says Stansbury

Whether you want it ‘shaken or stirred,’ Martini’s Bistro delivers the shaker – and the experience – right to your table.

Second: Sugarbeet, 101 Pratt St., Longmont, (303) 651-3330, sugarbeetrestaurant.com

Third: 2020 Food + Wine Bar, 2020 Ionosphere St., Longmont, (720) 491-3578 eatdrink2020.com

BEST

Good Eats Grill

1114 Francis St., Longmont, (303) 776-2450, facebook.com/goodeatsgrill

A new restaurant with an old recipe, Good Eats Grill is home to the Proud Mamas Colorado German Burger Company. Good Eats Grill offers a special type of food with local, historical significance: a German cabbage burger made with meat, onions, cabbage, cheese and spices baked in homemade bread dough. Good Eats Grill Coowner Kelly Jorgenson says simplicity is a big part of their philosophy

“Our food is simple, yet different,” she says. “We have menu items that can be prepared well consistently When you dine at Good Eats Grill, we want you to be comfortable and satisfied.”

Second: House of Q, 1940 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, (303) 923-7427 houseofqbbq.com

Third: The Twisted Noodle, 15 Ken Pratt Blvd., Ste. 220, Longmont (303) 772-1421, thetwistednoodle.com

BEST NIGHT OUT Crackpots Pottery Studio & More

505 Main St., Longmont, (303) 776-2211, ecrackpots.com

Owner Tamar Hendricks says Crackpots Pottery Studio & More provides something different from the typical “dinner and a movie” for your night out.

“You typically think that you have to go out and eat or go somewhere that there is food and we’ve always tried to be an alternative to that,” Hendricks says.

The regular “Creative Fix” classes teach new pottery painting techniques and Saturday “Date Nights” offer two-for-one pricing on the $8 studio fee. Even without a special, Crackpots can host your night out: the studio is open until 10 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and until 8 p.m. all other nights.

Second: Pumphouse Brewery, 540 Main St., Longmont, (303) 702-0881 pumphousebrewery.com

Third: Breakers, 380 Main St., Longmont, (303) 772-3839 longmontrestaurants.co

Best Pizza

Rosalee’s Pizzeria

461 Main St., Longmont, (303) 485-5020 rosaleespizzeria.com

Plenty of people have now eaten a slice (or several) from Rosalee’s Pizzeria and raved about it to friends and family. However, those devotees might not know that Rosalee’s shreds and grates their cheeses by hand, makes their sauce from the best tomatoes, and grinds their pork sausage in house. The kicker is the ever so slight “char” on both the bottom of the crust and the top o’ the pie. It’s a pizza modeled after some of the first pizzerias in the country Forget old school; this is old world. “We focus on creating a positive, energetic vibe, while delivering quality food and attentive service,” says co-owner James Ross. “We offer something fun and comfortable, yet with a little different spin!”

Second: Nicolo’s Chicago Style Pizza 1631 Pace St., Longmont (303) 651-2335, nicolospizza.com

Third: Proto’s Pizzeria Napoletana 600 S. Airport Rd., Bldg B Longmont, (303) 485-5000 protospizza.com

Best Place For A Romantic Dinner

Sugarbeet 101 Pratt St., Longmont (303) 651-3330, sugarbeet.com

Opened in Longmont in December 2006, and owned and operated by Justine and Seth Witherspoon, Sugarbeet is the hot-spot dining destination for a romantic dinner Its intimate environment makes Sugarbeet is the perfect foodie sit-down.

With seasonal menu selections, every item is natural and made in-house.

“We wanted to offer a unique, fine-dining experience in Longmont,” Justine Witherspoon, co-owner, says. “We wanted to showcase culinary talent, use local farms and be able to provide Longmont with fresh meats and seafood.”

One of the contributing factors that makes Sugarbeet restaurant an industry standout is that customers won’t find anything on the menu that isn’t fresh, including the meat. “We don’t serve anything frozen, except ice cream,” Witherspoon says.

Second: Martini’s Bistro, 543 Terry St., Longmont, (303) 651-2772, martinisbistro.com

Third: Pinocchios Restaurant, 210 Ken Pratt Blvd., #216, Longmont, (303) 651-7828, pinocchios-st.com

Best Place To Hear Live Music

Oskar Blues Home Made Liquids & Solids 1800 Pike Rd., Longmont, (303) 776-1914, oskarblues.com

At Oskar Blues Home Made Liquids and Solids, the music acts are carefully chosen and offer something for everyone, “from blues, rock, Americana, and bluegrass to folk, roots and country,” says their website. Creative Marketing Manager Jeremy Farmer says that the setting also contributes to a great musical experience at Home Made Liquids and Solids.

“We have an awesome patio out back, so you get a gorgeous view,” he says. “It’s a really cool atmosphere with a lot of room and a ton of beer on tap.”

Farmer says summertime means patio acts every Friday and Saturday, so keep an eye out for the restaurant’s summer music schedule.

Second: Dickens Opera House, 300 Main St., Longmont, (303) 834-9384, dickensoperahouse.com

Third: The Speakeasy, 301 Main St., Longmont, (720) 684-4728, thespeakeasylongmont.com

BEST PLACE FOR A GLASS OF WINE and BEST WINE LIST

Modena 600 Longs Peak Ave, Longmont, (720) 438-7410, modenawinecafe.com

Modena Wine Café, which celebrates its first anniversary on Aug. 1, was born out of owner Christine Hollenbeck’s desire for a quiet, wine-focused bar “Most bars were just too loud and didn’t offer enough of a selection of wine,” she says. “We wanted a place that was quiet where we could talk and not be rushed but didn’t have to have a big meal.”

In addition to a wine list that is carefully crafted each week, Modena offers a menu of high-quality tapas, desserts and other food, as well as the recent addition of local beers on tap.

This gourmet food and drink experience doesn’t have to break the bank either: Modena has happy hour between 3:30 and 5:30 p.m., Wednesday to Friday Wednesday nights are Ladies Night, when ladies receive half off all bottles of wine and wine flights.

As per Colorado law, Modena is happy to cork your bottle and send it home with you if you’d like to save some for another night.

Best Place For A Glass Of Wine

Second: 2020 Food + Wine Bar, 2020 Ionosphere St.,, Longmont, (720) 491-3578 eatdrink2020.com

Third: Sugarbeet, 101 Pratt St., Longmont (303) 651-3330, sugarbeet.com

Best Wine List

Second: Sugarbeet, 101 Pratt St., Longmont (303) 651-3330, sugarbeet.com

Third: 2020 Food + Wine Bar, 2020 Ionosphere St.,, Longmont, (720) 491-3578 eatdrink2020.com

Best Restaurant For Kids

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers

2331 Clover Basin Dr., Longmont, (720) 652-9229, redrobin.com

For nearly 45 years, Red Robin has been satisfying America’s burger cravings, and as the Gourmet Burger Expert, they offer more than two-dozen craveable burgers, like the Finest Smoke & Pepper burger, Royal Red Robin topped with a fresh egg and the Whiskey River BBQ burger

They pride themselves on being a place that is committed to supporting the communities they serve, where adults and families alike can enjoy a great dining experience.

They offer kids the Rad Robin Burger, Grilled Chick-on-a-Stick and healthy sides like Freckled™ Fruit Salad, apple slices and steamed broccoli.

Second: McDonald’s-In Longmont; 245 S. Main St., (303) 776-9383 // 1900 Main St., (303) 772-3017 // 1051 S. Hover St., (303) 682-1948 // 2050 Terry St., (303) 684-9426 // 2285 Ken Pratt Blvd., (303) 772-3400 // 1822 Skyway Dr., (303) 651-9608 //mcdonalds.com

Third: Chik-fil-A, 215 Ken Pratt Blvd, Longmont, (303) 772-9642, chick-fil-a.com

Best Seafood Restaurant

Red Lobster Seafood Restaurants

2177 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, (303) 485-9898, redlobster.com

Red Lobster Restaurants are popular all over America and that’s no different in Longmont. Their company standard is to provide a great experience for every customer Which they do with fresh food and fish brought in daily— including the lobster from Maine. With Red Lobster you know you’ll always get the same level of quality and service, no matter where you eat. Munch on the ever popular cheddar-baked biscuits before taking on The Ultimate Feast – consisting of lobster, crab legs, shrimp scampi and more. For personalized service and your favorite seafood— stop by Red Lobster

Second: Tortugas, 218 Coffman St., Longmont, (303) 772-6954 tortugaslongmont.com

Third: TIE: Sushi Leo, 2315 Clover Basin Dr., Longmont, (303) 678-0553 sushileo.net and Sushi Hana, 2065 Main St., Longmont (303) 485-1055, asushihana.com

BEST SOUP/SALAD

Loaf & Ladle

1134 Francis St., Longmont, (303) 776-7575

Loaf & Ladle has been family owned and operated in Longmont for more than 25 years. Lance and Jackie Thorne have kept their Cajun-French heritage ever-present with infusions of recipes from generations past. The Loaf & Ladle menu has an abundance of southern, Cajun and familial influences.

Finding the perfect lunch combination is easy. They offer three to four soup options each day from a list of 20 family soup recipes, and a variety of salads such as sesame Thai, cashew chicken and traditional Caesar salad.

“If you’re lucky, you’ll catch my Cajun soup day, when I’ll make something a bit more down-south delicious,” he says.

And you can round out the perfect lunch meal with a slice of homemade pie..

Second: Mad Greens, 2341 Clover Basin Dr., Longmont, (303) 702-4440 madgreens.com

Third: : Panera Bread, 425 Ken Pratt Blvd, Longmont, (303) 702-1000 panerabread.com

Best Steak

Texas Roadhouse 2351 Clover Basin Dr., Longmont, (303) 774-1491, texasroadhouse.com

Texas Roadhouse prides itself on doing everything in-house, says Managing Partner Shannon Roche.

“We cook everything from start to finish in-house,” he says. “We cut all of our own steaks in-house and cook all the ribs in-house.”

Their most popular steak is also their best value: a 6-oz sirloin that comes with two side dishes for just $8.99. Their ribs, which will be celebrated in the Texas Roadhouse Rib Fest in June, cook for three days to ensure they come out falling off the bone.

“We just do whatever we can to make sure that we give out a consistent product and take care of our guests with legendary food and legendary service,” Roche says.

Second: Outback Steakhouse, 1315 Dry Creek Dr., Longmont; (303) 684-8149 outback.com

Third: Mike O’Shays Restaurant & Ale House, 512 Main St., Longmont (303) 772-0252, mikeoshays.com

Best Sushi

Sushi Hana 2065 Main St., Longmont, (303) 485-1055, asushihana.com

Sushi Hana offers an array of sushi, sashimi, tempura and udon noodle soups. Open for 11 years, it gives customers “good, consistent quality,” said owner Andrew Sun.

All fish is cold-water fish from around the world, with such seasonal offerings as white salmon, bluefin, wolf fish, giant clam, razor clam and codfish sperm.

All condiments are served cold on ice, adding to the flavor, Sun said. Sushi Hana’s Master Sushi Chefs are highly trained in the art of sushi preparation, and use quality ingredients and high-grade fish daily in the dishes they prepare.

Second: Sushi Leo, 2315 Clover Basin Dr., Longmont, (303) 678-0553, sushileo.net

Third: Sakura Japanese Cuisine, 600 S. Airport Rd., Ste. F, Longmont, (303) 485-9282 sakuralongmont.com

Best Theater Performance

Longmont Theatre Company 513 Main St., Longmont, (303) 772-5200, longmonttheatre.org

The Longmont Theatre Company has been living up to its mission to “provide high quality entertainment with a strong educational component” since the 1950s. Today, it’s on the verge of a significant milestone.

“We’re in our last push to raise money to relight our marque,” Tracy Craven said. Craven handles marketing for the theatre. She explained that the upcoming Broadway on Main show will benefit the marque fund. Other offerings from the theatre include The New Generation Theatre Academy, a summer youth program which kicks off soon, and the start of their next season in August.

Craven is adamant that the people of Longmont are the reason the theatre thrives, grounding her passion in gratitude. “Thanks to the community for their support,” she said.

Second: Jesters Dinner Theatre, 224 Main St., Longmont, (303) 682-9980, jesterstheatre.com

Best Wings

Buffalo

Wild Wings

2303 Clover Basin Dr., Longmont, (303) 485-9464, buffalowildwings.com

According to the company’s website, “all you need to know ‘About Us’ is these three things: Wings. Beer. Sports.”

Buffalo Wild Wings pairs the classic sports bar model with an unheard of selection of wings. There are over 20 different spice and sauce options, ranging from mild, like Salt and Vinegar or Sweet BBQ, to “wild”, like the Mango Habanero, or their hottest sauce simply called Blazin’.

Weekly specials include Wing Tuesdays, when all traditional wings are specially priced. Prefer your wings bone-free? Then be sure to stop by on Thursdays when boneless wings are available at reduced prices. Happy hour runs from 2-7 pm and 10 pm-midnight every weekday

Second: Wing Shack, 1133 Francis St., Longmont, (303) 834-8066 wingshack-longmont.com

Third: Oskar Blues Home Made Liquids & Solids , 1800 Pike Rd., Longmont, (303) 776-1914, oskarblues.com