Sentinel Colorado Best of Aurora - Hot Stuff Edition by Sentinel Colorado

The Aurora Sentinel

THE BEST OF AURORA 2007

R ESTAURANTS • B ARS • C LUBS • P ARKS • S HOPPING • P EOPLE

Page 2 | Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

Aurora’s

Hot Stuff 2007 A Guide to Aurora’s Best

t is often joked that the best thing to do in Aurora is to drive to Denver. But given the our town’s diverse makeup and its constant expansion and development of land, this joke is outdated. In Aurora’s Hot Stuff 2007, we present the best things our town has to offer, as chosen by us and voted by you, the reader. There are more than 140 different categories from best sushi to best place to get your garden growing. We scoured every nook and crannie of the city to ﬁnd what’s truly the best of the best.

Best Exotic Stuﬀ to Eat Critics’ choice ZEPHYR LOUNGE ROCKY MOUNTAIN OYSTERS 11940 E. COLFAX AVE. 303-364-8981 Testicles typically aren’t the ﬁrst things that pop into mind when thinking about a tasty yummy to pop in your mouth. But these breaded and fried concoctions provide satisfaction to grumbling stomachs. Oh, and those who’ve tried it say that it tastes like chicken. Readers’ choice SUSHI

Best American-Chinese Cuisine Critics’ choice P.F. CHANG’S 23902 E. PROSPECT AVE. 303-627-5450 WWW.PFCHANGS.COM When you want Chinese food but aren’t looking for something too exotic, head over to P.F. Chang’s in the Southlands Mall. The restaurant serves up the best American-Chinese Cuisine Aurora has to offer. The Mongolian beef and coconut curry vegetables are always a hit, but even if they aren’t, the lengthy menu is sure to have something for everyone. Readers’ choice EAST CAFE 15140 E. MISSISSIPPI AVE. 303-369-6103

Best Chinese Cuisine Critics’ choice GOLDEN PHOENIX 15181 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 303-693-2506 Golden Phoenix offers fresh Chinese food and an entire sushi bar packed with an eye and tonguepleasing selection. The restaurant isn’t nearly as crowded as it should be, a luxury for those who’ve dis-

Shannon Davidson/The Aurora Sentinel

Cuts of uncooked meat sit on a table at the House of Korean BBQ at 2680 S. Havana St. #B. The restaurant won the critics’ choice for Best Korean BBQ.

covered Golden Phoenix. Go once with the knowledge that it won’t be the last time — your stomach will steer you back. Readers’ choice PARADISE ASIAN CAFE 6180 S. GUN CLUB ROAD 720-876-1808

Best Japanese Cuisine Critics’ choice J’SHABU 2680 S. HAVANA ST. 303-750-5797 Do-it-yourself may not be the ﬁrst thing you think of when eating out, but J’Shabu is as much of a draw for quality food as it is for the experience. Belly up to the horseshoe-shaped bar and get

your broth boiling to cook up your items shabu-shabu style. The variety of items you can whip up is on par with ﬁne fondue restaurants. The seafood is solid, but be sure to give the chicken and other meats a shot. Readers’ choice MT. FUJI 6100 S. MAIN ST. #H-101 WWW.MTFUJICO.COM

Best Sushi Critics’ and readers’ choice MT. FUJI 6100 S. MAIN ST., #H-101 303-699-9388 WWW.MTFUJICO.COM When looking for good sushi, freshness is an utmost priority and Mt. Fuji certainly has that. The ﬁsh

practically melts in one’s mouth and the quality can be seen in the display case at the bar. Try the Mt. Fuji Special Roll ($14.95), which features shrimp, crab and eel tempura. Out with some friends? Get the Mt. Fuji Super Boat ($79.95) and gorge with 12 pieces of sushi, 20 pieces of sushimi and four special rolls.

Best Thai Cuisine Critics’ choice PEARL OF SIAM 18660 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 303-617-7408 WWW.PEARLOFSIAM.NET If you have a taste for Thai food, the place to be in Aurora is the Pearl of Siam. The restaurant near East

Hampden Avenue and Tower Road specializes in authentic, healthy Thai food. Everything from classics like pad Thai to unique dishes like Siamese roast duck in wine sauce is made quickly to preserve the nutrients. And if you like something with a bit of spice to it, they have plenty of dishes to satisfy you. Readers’ choice THAI BAMBOO 106 DEL MAR CIRCLE 720-949-1980

Best Korean Cuisine Critics’ choice HAN KANG 1910 S. HAVANA ST. 303-873-6800 WWW.HANKANGKOREANCUISINE.COM

Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

This well-established familyowned restaurant serves up spicy ﬂavors in a comfortable environment or lets you grab some take out and go. Relax on the patio or catch a little Korean TV while you enjoy classic Korean dishes like bibimbap — mixed rice with veggies, beef and a fried egg. Readers’ choice KOREA HOUSE 10293 E. ILIFF AVE. 303-696-0011

Best Korean BBQ Critics’ choice HOUSE OF KOREAN BBQ 2680 S. HAVANA ST. #B 303-752-1338 What makes House of Korean BBQ great has a lot to do with the basics of creating great barbecue, period. The cuts of meat used are good to start with, and the preparation of the dishes (And we mean dishes — you can easily end up with quite a spread for not a lot of cash) doesn’t have to overpower the ﬁnal product or make you forget what you’re eating. Readers’ choice KOREA HOUSE 10293 E. ILIFF AVE. 303-696-0011

Best Vietnamese Cuisine Critics’ choice PHO 75 2050 S. HAVANA ST. 303-695-5438 In the past ﬁve years, pho restaurants have exploded across the Denver metro area allowing the general public to realize what the Vietnamese community has known for years: pho is good. What was once a delicacy only found on Federal has now invaded suburbia and Pho 75 stands apart from its competition with a tastier broth. And with a expanded menu which includes a rice combination plate and a bowl of spicy beef soup called Bun bo Hue, it gives its customers a variety of Vietnamese fare. Readers’ choice KIM BA 2495 S. HAVANA ST. # F31 303-745-1637

Best Noodle Soup Critics’ choice PHO 79 1080 S. HAVANA ST. 303-344-0752 To noodle soup connoisseurs Pho is a delicate art form. The noodles must be tender, but not floppy, and the broth needs to be flavorable, but not overpowering. Pho 79’s chicken pho, captures all those elements, and delivers at a more than reasonable price. To layer another flavor to this complex dish, try adding plum sauce on top, the hint of ginger makes the dish even better.

Best Indian Cuisine

Critics’ and readers’ choice STAR OF INDIA 3102 S. PARKER ROAD NO. A-10 303-755-1921 If it’s curry you crave, or spicy vindaloo, or the world’s most luscious rice pudding, then you’re in luck. Head over to Star of India and try the city’s best Indian goodies. And if you abstain from meat, you’re in luck, Star of India has plenty of vegetarian dishes to suit your needs.

Best Italian Cuisine Critics’ choice TUSCANY VALLEY 11951 E. ILIFF AVE. 303-755-7199 TUSCANYVALLEY.ABIDINGWEB.COM Chef Boyardee fanatics need not apply. Tuscany Valley’s Italian fare showcases specialty dishes from the boot. The Bruschetta Di Parma features crispy bruschetta, with shaved parmesan, salty Parma ham and herbs to whet the appetite. Slip into one of Tuscany Valley’s signature dishes, Burgundy Medallions. The dish, a southern Italian favorite, is a juicy tenderloin, covered in a Burgundy reduction presented in magniﬁcent fashion. Recommended wine for this hearty dish, a bottle of Rocca della Macie Chianti. Buon appetitio! Readers’ choice ARMANDO’S 16611 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 303-690-6660

Best Pizza Critics’ and readers’ choice ANTHONY’S PIZZA & PASTA MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.ANTHONYSPIZZAANDPASTA.COM The Aurora Sentinel break room has many staples, with Anthony’s pizza forming one of the major food groups. Aurora is fortunate enough to have several locations, including one that opened in December of 2006 at 13700 E. Colfax ave., close enough to feed the multiplying hungry masses of workers at Fitzsimons. Each location has a different owner, but they share a basic menu, including two topnotch styles of pizzas. A slice of New York-style ﬂoppy neapolitan won’t ﬁt on a paper plate and it’s a mini-workout to lift a thick square of Sicilian to your mouth. You can’t go wrong with the choice of nearly 20 toppings, but even plain cheese is a winner.

Best Greek Cuisine Critics’ and readers’ choice ATHENIAN RESTAURANT 15350 E. ILIFF AVE. 720-449-0224 Lucky Greece. Blessed with lemons and olives, the perfect way to make meats and even potatoes taste rich and light at the same time. Lucky Aurora. The Athenian brings those ﬂavors and all your other Greek favorites to a comfy family restaurant offering up one of the best deals in Aurora. Don’t miss the lemon pork chops, and the chicken kabobs served on a Greek salad will have

you yelping “opa” before you ever get to the ouzo.

��

Best Eastern European Cuisine Critics’ choice UKRAINE MARKET 12203 E. ILIFF AVE. #T 303-745-1723 Storeowner Leo just moved to his Aurora location and already people are responding to his Eastern European market. If you’ve never dined on Russian or Ukrainian food, it’s best to start with the peroghis and a generous helping of sour cream. Move on to Leo’s homemade Borscht, although he only makes it every other week and it’s usually gone within a day. Readers’ choice ELITE DELI 15413 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 303-400-9902

Best Middle-Eastern Cuisine Critics’ and readers’ choice CAFE PAPRIKA 13152 E. MISSISSIPPI AVE. 303-755-4150 CAFEPAPRIKA.TRIPOD.COM Start with the basics. The hummus, baba ghanouj and falafel are all wonders for your tongue, with every bit of spice just warming your palate with a Moroccan twist. Move on to your entree with a plate of best-in-the-city kabobs, cous cous or lamb tajine. Finish it all off with a bite of baklava or m’henca (Moroccan cake) and some tea. The service makes you feel at home, and the pitas are far from an afterthought.

| Page 3

��

THANK YOU AURORA

��

Thank You Aurora!

�� Best Japanese Cuisine -Readers Choice 2007

Best Authentic Mexican Cuisine

Best Sushi -Readers Choice 2007

Critics’ and readers’ choice GUADALAJARA FAMILY MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1001 S. ABILENE ST. 303-696-0903 This is not, by any stretch of the imagination, “Tex-mex.” Guadalajara is not only great at getting it authentic, but the service and atmosphere (Oversized Corona bottles and all) are top-notch, as well. Come ready to experience richness and spice in dishes you once thought you understood. We especially like many of the chicken dishes, including the mole. The fresh ingredients used come through in each and every recipe.

Best Sushi -Critics Choice 2007

��

Best Colorado Mexican Cuisine Critics’ choice CASA VALLARTA 4002 S. PARKER ROAD 303-627-7100 Casa Vallarta exudes the taste of Colorado-Mex by offering Aurora diners all their favorites. But the variety of especialdades perfectas keep even the most faithful customers coming back frequently. Don’t miss Tuesday’s tender and perfectly spiced chicken “carnitas” or Saturday’s Chili Colorado. Chockfull of tender pieces of stew

��

303.699.9388 6100 S. Main Street #H-101 Southlands Center Smoky Hill Rd & E470 By movie theatre www.mtfujico.com

��

Page 4 | Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

��

meat, green peppers and onions in a luscious red chili sauce, it’s the real thing.

��

Readers’ choice SENOR RIC’S 13200 E. MISSISSIPPI AVE. 303-750-9000

��

Best Guacamole Critics’ and readers’ choice CHIPOTLE MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.CHIPOTLE.COM

��

For Chipotle ﬁends, rocking the guac is the way to go. Each restaurant creates its guacamole daily by mashing Hass avocados and blending it with chopped cilantro, red onions and jalepeno peppers.

��

Best Green Chile ��

Critics’ choice BREWERY BAR IV 6482 S. PARKER ROAD 303-699-1544 WWW.BREWERYBAR3.COM

��

�� www.aurorasentinel.com

Like your green chile to scald your tongue? Or do you prefer it to only make your tonsils tingle? Either way, Brewery Bar IV has what you’re looking for. The south Aurora restaurant has

��

Thank You Aurora!

��

Best Sports Bar ��

Best Joint For Eats Best Cheesesteak Best Martini ��

��

�� Limit One per Customer. With coupon only. Saturday only. Expires 9/11/07.

��

�

��

�

��

Limit One per Customer. With coupon only. Saturday only. Expires 9/11/07.

��

a variety of green chiles, each one special in its own mouth-burning, sweat-inducing way. If you go, be sure to order the biggest beer they have, cause you’re gonna need it. Readers’ choice THE ROCK 22934 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 303-690-7934

Best BBQ Critics’ choice SMOKEY JACKSON BBQ 14561 E. ALAMEDA AVE. 303-344-5400

��

Best Fried Chicken from a Drive Thru Critics’ Choice POPEYES MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.POPEYES.COM

Easily the most delicious dilemma the Aurora Sentinel has ever had. It was a tight race, but Smokey pulled ahead after a brisket sandwich. The tender brisket had a great smoky ﬂavor, but wasn’t over cooked. The barbecue sauce is tangy and plentiful, and for true Southern food devotees, the restaurant touts famous fried chicken and wafﬂes, too.

Oh, yeah. That crispy, juicy chicken will get you in your car, but knowing that a hot, ﬂuffy biscuit and a hot tub of red beans and rice will have you stepping on the gas. Mild or spicy, no one can beat the texture of the crust in any other drive thru. Now you can get healthy by ordering the green side dish and peeling the skin off the chicken. But if you’d rather be happy, get the skin, battered fries and extra biscuits.

Readers’ choice JIM ’N NICK’S BAR-B-Q 24153 E. PROSPECT AVE. 720-274-5300

Readers’ choice KFC MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.KFC.COM

Best Hot Wings

Best Joint for Eats

Critics’ choice WING HUT 15473 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 303-699-WING (9464) WWW.WINGHUTAURORA.COM

Critics’ choice DUMITRI’S FAMILY RESTAURANT 1911 S. HAVANA ST. 303-752-0553

If variety is the spice of life, then Wing Hut is the perfect restaurant because it has variety and spice in spades. Unlike other wing places — mostly chains — with less than 10 choices of wing coatings, Wing Hut has a mind-boggling 40 different varieties of sauce with a wide range of hotness to keep your palate from getting complacent. The wings are generally juicy and wellﬂavored with whatever sauce you select. For those with iron tongues and stomachs, offerings like Way Too Hot (Habaneros), Raging Barbeque and Inferno Ranch shouldn’t be missed, while milder fans can enjoy ﬂavors like Citrus, Greek and Pesto-Parmesan.

All that really needs to be said about Dumitri’s is that you can get a massive breakfast of eggs over-easy, huge chunks of bacon and a mound of hash browns that would make Mt. Evans jealous at any time of the day. But of course, that would leave out the rest of the eclectic menu, which includes everything from Greek fare to German schnitzel. Good burgers, fries, melts and shakes, as well as a kids menu for the little tots ensures everyone at your table will ﬁnd something to appease their palate. And with a relaxed family atmosphere, Broncos’ memorabilia everywhere and numerous televisions tuned to ESPN, you might start calling it home.

Readers’ choices WING STOP AND WOODY’S WINGS (TIE)

Best Fried Chicken at a Restaurant Critics’ choice BLACK-EYED PEA 14300 E. EXPOSITION AVE. 303-368-8800 WWW.THEBLACKEYEDPEA.COM At a table inside or to-go, the Black-Eyed Pea serves up the biggest, juiciest, crispiest, freshest fried chicken in the city. Each piece is battered to order and fried in fresh light oils resulting in a

��

tender crunch like no other. If that isn’t good enough, you can have ’em slather it all in a light creamy gravy Sunday dinner style. Order it with a pile of creamy mashed potatoes and watch all your troubles fade away.

��

Readers’ choice GOAL LINE SPORTS GRILL 16728 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 303-766-9343

Best Place To Eat Standing Up Critics’ choice TASTE OF AURORA The Taste of Aurora is the best place to eat standing up or walking to the next table because of the overwhelming selection of local and national restaurants offering up a taste of what they do best. Take this annual opportuni-

Best Critic

Tann Salon ing

s’ and Choic Readers ’ e (TI 2007 E)

Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

�

ty, your tennis shoes and appetite to the Stampede for a few hours of ﬂavor.

��

Readers’ choice GOAL LINE SPORTS GRILL 16728 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 303-766-9343

��

Readers’ choice SUBWAY MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

Best Joint for Hot Dogs and Brats Critics’ and readers’ choice BENDER’S BRAT HAUS 15343 E. SIXTH AVE. 303-344-2648 There’s no mistake about it, Bender’s is the place in Aurora. Juicy brats slathered with any or none of your favorite ﬁxin’s accompanied with tart German potato salad will cure even the most dangerous addiction. Not only are the brats the best, but the prices make this one of Aurora’s best casual-dining deals.

Best Upscale Dinner Critics’ and readers’ choice THE AURORA SUMMIT 2700 S. HAVANA ST. 303-751-2112 WWW.AURORASUMMIT.COM USDA prime beef. Aged. Tender and ﬂavorful. Expertly prepared. It even sounds like a premier meal. And at The Summit, premier is just what you can expect. With a wide selection of cuts — from ﬁlet mignon to T-bone and prime rib to ribeye — the steakhouse on South Havana Street has it all.

Best Take Out Critics’ choice ANTHONY’S PIZZA AND PASTA MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.ANTHONYSPIZZAAANDPASTA.COM Known more for delicious pizza

Shannon Davidson/The Aurora Sentinel

Nothing like a brat with the works. Bender’s Brat Haus, at 15343 E. Sixth Ave., was the critics’ and readers’ choice for Best Joint for Hot Dogs and Brats.

� ��

�

��

Critics’ choice SUB STOP 475 SABLE BLVD. 303-366-9130

��

Best Subs

Don’t come hungry to Sub Stop; the menu is too large to properly evaluate with a grumbling stomach. Get there ﬁve to 10 minutes before you’re wanting to get your grub; then grab an order form and prepare for made-to-order greatness. Meat lovers must try the sausage, but everyone can enjoy the warm marinara sauce on bread that was born to be a sub. These people are the true sandwich artists.

| Page 5

��

than anything else, Anthony’s Pizza and Pasta features a small, but delicious selection of sandwiches. The chicken parm sub, breaded strips of white meat chicken, smothered in marinara and melted mozzarella is one of the most delicious this side of Mulberry Street in Manhattan. The veal parm is equally savory, and don’t pass up the sausage sandwich. All sandwiches are surrounded by a fresh hero roll. Don’t forget the canolis.

Comfort dining. This classy bistro is comfy enough any day of the week that calls for a New Mexico Rib Eye sandwich, the best Cobb Salad this side of the Brown Derby in Hollywood, fork-tender buffalo pot roast or any of the other creations we all crave at the end of tough day. And each and every one of the Bent Fork’s American standards is elevated by a platecovering mound of Yukon Gold garlic smashed potatoes.

Readers’ choice

Best Burgers

PIZZA PAN 5001 S. PARKER ROAD 303-693-3822

Critics’ choice TWISTERS BURGERS & BURRITOS 1750 S. BUCKLEY ROAD 303-369-7690 There’s nothing special about the Twisters drive-thru lane except the menu you order from: It is home to some of the best New Mexican food you can ﬁnd in the metro area. On top of that (literally), you can get just about anything smothered in delectable green and red chile. Finish it all off with the cute-looking, great-tasting apple pie bites. Oh, and did we mention they can supply all this great food en masse for large groups of hungry folks? Readers’ choice SONIC MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

The Bent Fork is all about comfort American style. Comfort food.

��

Readers’ choice FAT BURGER 14221 E. CEDAR AVE. 303-363-6996 & 24100 E. COMMONS AVE. 720-274-5275

��

Celine’s Designer Resale Boutique ��

SW Corner of Hampden & Chambers

www.celinesboutique.com

303.680.5544

��

t For Ea0t7s n i o J t s e B 20 Choice -Critics’

��

Critics’ choice JOHNNY’S DINER 2323 S. HAVANA ST. 303-369-8307

Critics’ and readers’ choice BENT FORK 12191 E. ILIFF AVE. 303-337-6600 WWW.BENTFORKGRILL.COM

��

Variety, variety, variety. That’s what you get from the burgers at Red Robin. Want some pineapple on that juicy chunk of meat? Then order up a Bonzai Burger. Like your burger to come adorned with a fried egg? Then take the regal rout with the Royal Red Robin Burger. With more than a dozen burgers to choose from, Red Robin has something for everyone. And don’t forget the alwayspopular bottomless steak fries to go with it.

Best French Fries

Best American Cuisine

��

Critics’ choice RED ROBIN 1491 S. HAVANA ST. 303-671-7055 WWW.REDROBIN.COM

Best Drive-Thru or Drive-In

��

It’s greasy, fried and delicious. The best place for Aurorans to snack on fried spuds has been an

��

Page 6 | Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007 THANK YOU!

��

�� Purchase $25 or more and receive 1 lb. of Ground Beef FREE!

Aurora landmark for several years. What’s the best time to get their fries? In the morning, with a Johnny’s egg sandwich and a hangover that needs to be cured.

Critics’ choice ARTIST INYIE ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT 1951 S. HAVANA ST. 720-748-0239 WWW.INYIEETHIORESTAURANT.COM

Readers’ choice MCDONALD’S MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

It’s like being a kid all over again. Patrons must eat with their hands at Artist Inyie Ethiopian Restaurant. In addition to the lamb and beef plates, the restaurant carries a wide range of vegetarian options. Non-meat eaters have choices from the yemeser wat, a dish of lentils simmered in a spicy berbere sauce, to the gomen wat, a plate of chopped collard greens cooked in oil with onions and peppers.

Best Cheesesteak

Offer expires 9-30-07 with this ad.

��

THANK YOU! from all of us at

�� for voting us

�� – Critics’ Choice 2007

��

Best Place to Take Grandparents

��

-Critics Choice 2007

Critics’ choice GOODFELLA’S 477 SABLE BLVD. 303-366-7204 WWW.GFELLASPIZZA.COM This family-owned joint has some big competition, located next to our Best Subs winner (Sub Stop), but it holds its own with its two tempting cheesesteak styles: traditional Philly and Chicken Philly. Both are mouth-watering 8-by-4-inch masterworks with fries accompanying the dish. We can’t say it’s like being in the City of Brotherly Love, but it’s a darn good substitute. And as long as you’re indulging yourself, pair a Philly with some nachos the next time the Eagles are playing. Readers’ choice THE ROCK AND GOAL LINE SPORTS GRILL (TIE)

Best Vegetarian Cuisine

��

�� ian l a t I t s e B Choice -Critics’ 007 2 2006 &

��

Readers’ choice STAR OF INDIA 3102 S. PARKER ROAD # A10 303-755-1921

Best Seafood Cuisine Critics’ choice SONODA’S 3108 S. PARKER ROAD 303-337-3800 WWW.SONODASSUSHI.COM Whether you like seafood raw or cooked, Sonoda’s is the place to go. From the New Zealand Green Lipped Mussels to the broiled freshwater eel, this sushi house offers some of the most-exotic fare from the sea you can find. And if you’d rather take the more traditional route, order up some halibut or jumbo shrimp. If you’re a fan of Teriyaki, try the Teriyaki-style swordfish, mako shark or Mississippi cat fish. Readers’ choice RED LOBSTER 10854 E. ALAMEDA AVE. 303-343-6161

Best Chain Restaurant Critics’ choice OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.OUTBACKSTEAKHOUSE.COM Even Crocodile Dundee takes a backseat as to the greatest Australian import to the United States. Though it’s debatable if the steakhouse has anything to do with the outback other than it’s namesake, it’s definitely worth taking a walkabout to the restaurant and settling in with a bloomin’ onion and move on to a 9 oz. “crowned” filet. The filet gives the word savory a new meaning. Topped with melted Bleu Cheese this diminutive filet has the capability to tackle the largest appetite. Help yourself to a Chocolate Thunder from Down Under cake, but bring a friend, it’s rich enough for a crowd. Tell your server to throw another shrimp on the barbie. Readers’ choice CHILI’S AND OUTBACK (TIE)

Best Latte Critics’ choice CARINO COFFEE 20971 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD #103 303-766-7272 WWW.CARINOCOFFEE.COM Coffee shops are all about flavor. The coffee’s flavor, the flavor of the store’s décor, and the flavor of the people in it. Hinkley High grad and Carino Coffee owner Alina Laikola has injected so many flavors into Carino Coffee that it’s easily our favorite this year. One of Laikola’s specialties, the Kaladi Latte, is a Latin-inspired flavored latte that begs to break our Starbucks habit. Readers’ choice IT’S A GRIND 5580 S. PARKER ROAD 720-876-1500

Best Cup o’ Joe Critics’ Choice COMFORT CAFÉ 586 DAYTON ST. 303-360-7807 When it’s all said and done, Aurora and all of America will still be searching for a good cup of coffee. Not a la-ti-da latte or fru-fru steamer. Just a good cup of coffee to take the bite out of a cold morning or lift the fog out of your brain. Comfort Café has just what you’re looking for. Rich coffee taste without the Star-burnt after-taste. Readers’ choice IT’S A GRIND 5580 S. PARKER ROAD 720-876-1500

Best Buﬀet Critics’ choice SWEET TOMATOES 14015 E. EVANS AVE. 303-745-4664 WWW.SWEETTOMATOES.COM If you’re the independent type and like to ﬁll your plate yourself, the buffet is the way to go. And if you want the healthiest buffet you can get, head over to East Evans Avenue near Blackhawk Street and duck into Sweet Tomatoes. The options at the salad bar are seemingly endless: from mandarin spinach with caramelized walnuts to tuna tarragon. And if you’re more of a soup person, try the chili cheeseburger or cream of Rosemary potato soup. Readers’ choice COUNTRY BUFFET 1026 S. SABLE BLVD. 303-745-1844

Best Deal for the Dollar

��

Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

| Page 7

Critics’ choice COSTCO’S ‘DOG AND A DRINK FOR $1.50 1471 S. HAVANA ST. 303-750-0384 WWW.COSTCO.COM

2832 S. HAVANA ST. 303-695-5000 WWW.KATHERINES.ORG

Sure, it’s a dollar and a half, but what can you buy for a dollar these days? Costco’s all-beef hot dog and fountain drink are the perfect remedy to a long afternoon at the discount warehouse. The frank is huge, and you can load it with just about anything you want. Is there anywhere else you can get a family of four lunch for six bucks? And at a buck and a half, it’s so good you’ll think about ordering two — after all that’s still cheaper than any lunch anywhere else.

Critics’ choice SAM’S NO. 3 2580 S. HAVANA ST. 303-751-0347 WWW.SAMSNO3.COM

Best Place to Cure a Hangover

Readers’ choice ZEPHYR LOUNGE ROCKY MOUNTAIN OYSTERS 11940 E. COLFAX AVE. 303-364-8981

Best Patio Critics’ choice THE EMERALD ISLE 4385 S. PARKER ROAD 303-690-3722 When it comes to restaurants, a general consensus is usually tough to come by. But just about everybody agrees that THE reason to hit up the Emerald Isle the spectacular and spacious patio it offers — especially around sunset, when a ﬁner vantage point is tough to come by in the city. The bar-andgrill sits conveniently on Parker Road near the intersection with Quincy Avenue, with the backside offering a view of the east side of the bustling Cherry Creek Reservoir. When the weather is nice, the majority of patrons choose to be outside. The food is mostly typical bar fare — with a number of American-Mexican dishes — in a reasonable price range and the margaritas are considered to be a great value, but partaking while out on the patio magniﬁes the experience. Readers’ choice THE ROCK 22934 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 303-690-7934

Best Breakfast Critics’ choice ROSIE’S DINER 14061 E. ILIFF AVE. 303-752-3663 WWW.ROSIES-DINER.COM Rosie’s Diner is a throwback to the days when diners were the place to go to get some grub and hang out. With a wide variety of omelettes and skillets, ranging from $3.99 to $6.99, it’s an affordable joint to get some breakfast. And for those who feel like eggs for dinner, breakfast is served all day long.

Shannon Davidson/The Aurora Sentinel

Mmm ... doughnuts. LaMar’s has a large variety to try from sprinkles to glazed to whatever else one would desire. It won critics’ choice for Best Doughnuts in Aurora.

Readers’ choice THE ROCK 22934 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 303-690-7934

Best Waffles Critics’ choice DOZENS RESTAURANT 2180 S. HAVANA ST. 303-337-6627 No need to say au revoir or vaarwel to Aurora if you have a need for Belgian waffles. Just head over to Dozens Restaurant on South Havana and sample some of the city’s finest waffles. With whipped cream and fresh fruit on top, you might be tempted to order twelve of Dozens’ finest. Readers’ choice WAFFLE HOUSE 12880 E. MISSISSIPPI AVE. 303-696-1566

Best Pancakes Critics’ and readers’ choice GOLDEN GRAIN CAKES INTERNATION HOUSE OF PANCAKES 13700 E. MISSISSIPPI AVE. 303-743-7474 & 5820 S. PARKER ROAD 303-400-4467 WWW.IHOP.COM This American icon has a hidden treasure on the menu — it’s Harvest Grain ‘N Nut pancakes. With sliced strawberries on top it ﬁts the bill for a hearty, healthy breakfast. And yes, they actually have international locations, it’s not just the house of international pancakes.

��

Best Omelettes Critics’ choice ATHENIAN RESTAURANT 15350 E. ILIFF AVE. 720-449-0224 A Greek restaurant that does Mexican better than most? It’s true, but let’s not forget than the Greek omelette here is spectacular as well. In both cases, the spices and ﬂavors almost make you forget you’re chowing down on eggs. For most omelettes, you also get served a very generous serving of hash browns, as well as your choice of toast or pancakes. Just be sure to enjoy the omelette-y goodness before getting ﬁlled up on anything else. Readers’ choice VILLAGE INN AND IHOP (TIE)

Best Doughnuts Critics’ choice LAMAR’S 10001 E. ILIFF AVE. TEL 303-743-8585 FAX 303-743-8686 Like sweet little pillows from heaven, these subtly fried pastries are too good to dunk. The raised, glazed morsels have just enough crust to make them perfectly chewy just before they dissolve into sinful pleasure in your mouth. The cake doughnuts are hearty offerings with real chocolate or fruit additions. If you can have only one food the rest of your life, these little darlin’s would be a serious contender. Readers’ choice KRISPY KREME 15297 E. MISSISSIPPI AVE. 303-695-5555

Whether slumped back in a booth or getting fresh air out on the patio, the comfort food at Sam’s No. 3 is hands down our prescription for what ails you after a rough night. The friendly staff won’t hassle you one bit while sipping a Bloody Mary, and the large menu has plenty to ﬁll the rumbly tummy. Any of the Mr. Sam’s skillets can do the trick with their “mountain of homefries.” Perk yourself up with a Snickers Latté if you’re feeling sluggish. Readers’ choice ZEPHYR LOUNGE 11940 E. COLFAX AVE. 303-364-8981

WWW.KRISPYKREME.COM

Best Place to Eat Brunch

Best Bagels

Critics’ choice THE AURORA SUMMIT 2700 S. HAVANA ST. 303-751-2112 WWW.AURORASUMMIT.COM

Critics’ choice PANERA BREAD 12293 E. ILIFF AVE. 303-755-6800 WWW.PANERABREAD.COM When most folks are headed to bed at night, the bagel makers at Panera bread are just starting their day. Why do the bakers start making the bagels at 10 p.m. every night? So the bagels are fresh each and every morning, that’s why. They have the classic bagels such as everything and blueberry. Or the more interesting flavors such as the new passion fruit, flavored with brown sugar, vanilla and passion fruit chips. Top it off with a cup of coffee and one of the seven flavors of cream cheese and you’ve got the perfect start to a day. Readers’ choice IT’S A GRIND AND EINSTEIN’S (TIE)

Readers’ choice LE PEEP 15311 E. ALAMEDA PARKWAY 303-755-6350

Best Bakery Readers’ choice DANIEL’S OF PARIS 12253 E. ILIFF AVE. # C 303-751-6084

Best Cakes and Savories

Best Soup and Salad

Critics’ choice DANIEL’S OF PARIS 12253 E. ILIFF AVE. 303-751-6084

Critics’ choice SWEET TOMATOES 14015 E. EVANS AVE. 303-745-4664 WWW.SWEETTOMATOES.COM There’s soup and salad, but so much more at Sweet Tomatoes. If you want to be healthy but not leave hungry, stop by this restaurant for all-you-can-eat buffet that includes breads, pastas and a dessert bar. Readers’ choice KATHERINE’S FRENCH BAKERY

Steaks and baby back ribs are good anytime, so why not have it for brunch? The Aurora Summit offers its guests an option of a 6ounce salmon ﬁlet or an 8-ounce rib eye steak with a choice of soup or salad.

Feel free to point at random among the cases of French goodies making a decision almost impossible. That’s because there isn’t anything inside Daniel’s that’s a disappointment. From cat-tongue cookies that melt in your mouth to the best pan au chocolat in any metro area arrondissement, Daniel’s of Paris delivers the real thing. But even among all these goodies, outrageous cakes and delectable quiches shine. You’ll never forget

�� 2700 S. Havana SE corner of Yale & Havana

303-751-2112

��

Page 8 | Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007 Come visit our Farm Market

Voted People’s Choice 2007: “Best Place to Get Your Garden Growing”

a birthday honored with the Opera Torte tucked under a comfy blanket of ganache. And brunch will never be the same without a Daniel’s savory egg custard pie.

Open Daily

– Peoples’ Choice 2004, 2005 and 2006

Best Cookies

��

Critics’ and readers’ choice KATHERINE’S FRENCH BAKERY, CAFE TO GO & CATERING 2832-AA S. HAVANA ST. 303-695-5000 WWW.KATHERINES.ORG Now this is the way the cookie is supposed to crumble. The honorable French sand cookie has never been treated better than at Katherine’s. Buttery goodness smeared with a host of chocolates and icings, these top-notch Sables make any occasion extra special. But don’t stop there, Katherine’s boasts Parisian quality pastries that would make any Right Banko-phile squeal with pleasure. Satiny crème patisserie ﬁlls a host of favorites blessed with dollops of dark chocolate or fruit ﬁllings. The meringues rival anything in Vienna and the sweet brioche experiments are legendary.

��

Best Place to Take Kids for Dinner

��

Critics’ choice CICI’S PIZZA BUFFET 14000 E. MISSISSIPPI AVE. #7 303-597-0080

��

Thank You Aurora!

��

Shannon Davidson/The Aurora Sentinel

Want to go to a place with good wine? Try Bistro al Vino, voted Best Wine List and Best Expensive Wine by critics and readers alike. It also won Best Place to Pick Up Divorcees and Best Martini. & 18648 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 303-617-3222 WWW.CICISPIZZA.COM

the most reﬁned palates. If frogurt doesn’t tickle your fancy, there is also a variety of ice cream that regularly rotates.

Who can argue with a $4.49 allyou-can-eat pizza buffet? You and your youngsters can eat as little or as much as you want. If pizza isn’t your thing, there’s plenty of pasta, salad and dessert to keep Mom and Dad happy. That said, the pizza is usually fresh, and the toppings diverse for a chain buffet (Olives, jalapeños, ham and more are often available).

Readers’ choice COLD STONE CREAMERY MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

Readers’ choice THE ROCK 22934 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 303-690-7934

Best Ice Cream or Frozen Yogurt Critics’ choice NOT JUST YOGURT 2275 S. PEORIA ST. 303-337-0323

��

Who says low-fat foods don’t taste good? Not Just Yogurt features a bevy of non-fat and sugarfree ﬂavors that can satisfy even

��

Best Dessert Critics’ choice TREASURES ON THE TABLE 22691 E. AURORA PARKWAY 303-693-8118 In Aurora, the best cure for a sweet tooth is something tart. But not just any tart will do. It has to be the fruit tart at Treasures on the Table. The pastry with the ﬂaky crust and fresh fruit topping is the perfect cure if you are in need of a tasty dessert. Readers’ choice DANIEL’S OF PARIS AND KATHERINE’S FRENCH BAKERY (TIE)

Best Assembled Meal Service Critics’ choice

Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

PERFECT DINNERS 4343 S. BUCKLEY ROAD 303-699-1818 WWW.PERFECTDINNERS.COM

| Page 9

��

The owner is nice, excited and helpful — even over the top sometimes. The assembled meals are always nicely labeled with easyto-follow instructions. There’s a great selection of side dishes and broccoli has never tasted so good. Plus the meals are Weight Watcher-rated helps take the guess work out of dieting.

��

Readers’ choice DINNER N’ DASH 20981 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD #C 303-693-6800

��

��(Colfax & Florence)

Best Wine List Critics’ and readers’ choice BISTRO AL VINO 15352 E. IDA DRIVE UNIT E 303-400-3166 WWW.BISTROALVINO.COM A trip to Bistro Al Vino is worth leaving Aurora, and fortunately you’ll only have to do that by a block to reach the Mecca of wine in the area, located just a block off Parker Road on Orchard Road. Owner Alan Schwartz has taken his vast experience in the food and beverage industry and created an environment for good times and the palate to ﬂourish. The owner is amiable and more than willing to share his recommendations, a help considering there are nearly 100 vino options on the menu. Fifteen wine ﬂights — 2 oz. samplings of three or four different wines grouped by type or region — can give a structured experience, or you can wing it with no fear. The quality menu features food already paired with recommended wines.

Best Place to Get Inexpensive Wine Critics’ choice OLIVE GARDEN 2390 S. HAVANA ST. 303-745-9945 & 6089 S. SOUTHLANDS PARKWAY 303-400-0199 WWW.OLIVEGARDEN.COM

the list, the Bertani Amorone for $95 makes the Olive Garden the best place to pop the question or seal the deal in Aurora. Readers’ choice THE BENT NOODLE 3055 S. PARKER ROAD # 108 303-337-2733

Best Place to Get Expensive Wine Critics’ and readers’ choice BISTRO AL VINO 15352 E. IDA DRIVE UNIT E 303-400-3166 WWW.BISTROALVINO.COM Know a lot about wine and want to try the ﬁnest? Or, do you just have a boatload of cash and feel like treating yourself to something fancy? Either way, Bistro Al Vino is the best place to sip some expensive wine in Aurora. With a few bottles costing in excess of $800 and plenty in the $90 to $150 range, there is something for everyone. But don’t forget your wallet.

Critics’ and readers’ choice OLD CHICAGO MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.OLDCHICAGO.COM This restaurant embodies the term eat, DRINK and be merry. With more than 100 brews at every location, every part of the world is

•�� •�� •�� •��

-Cri

tics

��

Mon - Sat • 10 - 6 Sun • Noon - 5 1947 S. Havana (SW corner of Jewell & Havana)

Aurora, 80014 303-337-6880 ��

“A STEP ABOVE”

Best Hometown Brew Critics’ and readers’ choice URCA VANILLA PORTER, DRY DOCK BREWING, CO. 15110 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 303-400-5606 WWW.DRYDOCKBREWING.COM The Beer Barons have a number of great seasonals, but their mainstay Vanilla Porter remains the brew d’resistance. The subtlety of the vanilla perfectly blends with the other ﬂavors (hints of roast and chocolate) in the stout, never overpowering. It is a dark brown beverage whose aroma is perfectly matched to its taste. Only the slightest bit bitter, be sure to get yours straight from the brewery tasting room.

��

�� E Iliff Ave

Best Brewpub

E Yale Ave

Rd er ark SP

Best Beer List

represented in bottle form. Venture past Mexico’s Corona and Germany’s Becks and you’ll ﬁnd yourself knee-deep in Japan’s Ichiban Lager and China’s TsingTao beers. Can’t decide on one, try two. The Snakebite — Woodchuck cider and Guinness — is the perfect marriage of light and heavy. And the world beer tour will have you going back to have them all.

ace st Pl g e B d n Vote Antiqui 2007 o e g c i o o t ’ Ch

S Havana St

In a world where restaurants too often try to boost liquor costs with overpriced wines, the Olive Garden remembers that a meal is incomplete without the right paring of the grape. Both Aurora locations have extensive by-the-glass wine lists boasting not only good labels, but good prices, too. Forget blush wines ever existed and ﬁnd out what sauvignon blanc mixed with pinot grigio can do for you for about $6 a glass. While Olive Garden pours the respectable Gabbiano Chianti Classico for only $6 a glass, you can splurge on the Rocca delle Macie Riserva for about $1 more. Even at the top of

Photo by Shannon Davidson/The Aurora Sentinel

La Cueva, at 9742 E. Colfax Ave., has more than 120 different kinds of tequila. The better to make margaritas with. That’s why it was named critics’ choice for Best Margarita in Aurora.

��

Critics’ choice BJ’S RESTAURANT & BREWPUB 14442 E. CEDAR AVE. 303-366-3550 WWW.BJSRESTAURANTS.COM

��

What better way to wash down

��

Thanks for voti � �� n g �� us B �� est Oil Change!

2291 S. Havana Street in Aurora • 303-695-9331 Mon–Sat: 8am–6pm, Sun: 9am–4pm • �� ww.autawash.com Also at 7919 E. Arapahoe Road in Centennial • 303-694-2370

•�� •��

Page 10 | Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

Thank You Aurora

Voted “Best Auto Graveyard” Readers’ Choice Peoples’ Choice 2005 & 2006 2007 & Critics’ Choice www.pullnsave.com

Readers’ choice DRY DOCK BREWING CO. 15110 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 303-400-5606 WWW.DRYDOCKBREWING.COM

Pull-n-Save Self Serve Auto Parts

U-Pull!!! U-Save!!!

Over 1000 vehicles We Buy Unwanted in stock 11602 E. 33 Avenue, Aurora

se habla español

a sourdough burger or a buffalo chicken deep dish pizza than with a couple of pints? BJ’s Restaurant & Brewpub offers a number of in-house brews from its German wheat beer called Harvest Hefeweizen to the Tatonka Stout, a rich Imperial Stout. Can’t decide which one to have? Order the sampler and try them all.

Vehicles

(303) 365-2001

Best Martini Critics’ choice BISTRO AL VINO 15352 E. IDA DRIVE UNIT E 303-400-3166 WWW.BISTROALVINO.COM Al Vino will only share two of the ingredients of his bar’s chocolate kiss martini; the rest are a secret. “Chocolate and love,” the owner of Bistro Al Vino said with a chuckle. The thick, chocolatey concoction isn’t too boozy and is a hit with customers at any time, Al Vino said, not just at dessert. And with the recipe under wraps, Al Vino’s will probably continue to be the best place to get it. Readers’ choice AURORA SUMMIT AND GOAL LINE SPORTS GRILL(TIE)

Best Margarita Critics’ choice LA CUEVA 9742 E. COLFAX AVE. 303-367-1422 WWW.LACUEVA.NET La Cueva’s had a reputation for the best Mexican food in Aurora for years, but regular customers and curious newcomers should take note of what this familyowned establishment is serving at the bar. With more than 120 tequilas, anyone can ﬁnd a margarita suited to their taste buds. If you’re turning 21, you can ask for a drink made with a tequila that shares your age. Prices start at $5. Readers’ choice THE ROCK 22934 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 303-690-7934

��

www.aurorasentinel.com

Best Place for a First Date Critics’ choice MOVIE TAVERN 18605 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 303-680-7378 WWW.MOVIETAVERN.COM Dinner and a movie is the quintessential ﬁrst date, and Movie Tavern combines the two well. Caught up in conversation? When the

movie is over, the bar is still open with plenty of seating to discuss the ﬂick and trade sweet nothings. But if things aren’t going so great, you can still enjoy the movie and a meal in silence. Readers’ choice THE ROCK 22934 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 303-690-7934

Best Place for a Free Date Critics’ choice STAMPEDE MESQUITE GRILL & DANCE EMPORIUM 2430 S. HAVANA ST. 303-696-7686 WWW.STAMPEDECLUB.NET For fun and dancing, keep Wednesday night open. Every Wednesday at the Stampede is Ladies Night and from 8 p.m. to midnight, women drink for free. Readers’ choice BANKS IN HARMONY CONCERTS IN THE PARK

Best Place to Meet New People Critics’ choice NINE MILE LIGHT RAIL STATION SOUTH PARKER ROAD AND I-225 You’re standing on the platform waiting for a train. You strike up a conversation with the person next to you and voila; you make a new friend, or maybe more. It may sound like a scene right out of a bad romantic comedy, but hey, waiting for a train really is a good place to meet people. In Aurora, waiting for the Light Rail isn’t just a good place to do that, it’s the best place. Readers’ choice THE ROCK 22934 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 303-690-7934

Best to Pick Up Divorcees Critics’ and readers’ choice BISTRO AL VINO 15352 E. IDA DRIVE #E 303-400-3166 WWW.BISTROALVINO.COM Maybe it’s the location, or maybe it’s Al’s wine. Bistro Al Vino can certainly cater to the newly martially separated to commiserate or get back on the dating wagon. Al’s got the best wines for just about any occasion, so ask him for the best selection to get you back into the singles scene.

Best Place to Shoot Pool Critics’ choice TABLE STEAKS EAST 3253 S. PARKER ROAD

��

Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

| Page 11

�� Best Place to Buy Art

-Readers’ ChoiceThree Years in a Row! Critics’ Choice 2005

��

�� Best Store to Get Your Garden Growing �� -Critics’ Choice 2007 ��

Shannon Davidson/The Aurora Sentinel

Tired of going for walks around the neighborhood with your canine companion? Try the Grandview Off-Leash Dog Park, at 17900 E. Quincy Ave. It was voted critics’ choice for Best Place to Take a Dog.

303-743-8888 TABLESTEAKSEAST.COM Places to shoot some stick are becoming more abundant in Aurora, but none yet rival the offerings at Table Steaks East, an old standby located on Parker Road just a few blocks north of the juncture with Interstate 225. It’s far from an intimate pool room, but the chances to play are very good considering Table Steaks has 12 9-foot tables, 6 bar tables and a single Snooker table for variety. The best value is daily before 10 p.m., when an hour of pool runs just $5 per table. An hour from 10 p.m. to close is $9 Sunday through Thursday and $10 on popular Friday and Saturday nights. While you wait or during a break, there are plenty of drink specials, meals and other bar-type games — plus an expansive, covered patio — to keep you entertained. Readers’ choice LINDY’S AND TABLE STEAKS EAST (TIE)

Best Sports Bar Critics’ choice LEGENDS OF AURORA 13690 E. ILIFF AVE. 303-671-0560 WWW.LEGENDSOFAURORA.COM Some sports bars fall into a trap where there are plenty of television sets, but they’re all small. Not at Legends, which has several large ﬂatscreens as well as a huge projection screen. With so many TVs, missing a game is nearly impossible. Plus there’s no better way to enjoy half a dozen games than with great pizza, wings and some bargain brews. Readers’ choice GOAL LINE SPORTS GRILL 16728 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 303-766-9343

Best Happy Hour Critics’ choice

CASA VALLARTA 4002 S. PARKER ROAD 303-617-4957 On a hot summer afternoon, it’s always nice to sit outside and enjoy an ice-cold margarita or beer. If that margarita is $2.50 and comes with a free taco bar, well, that might be the best way to cap off a workday. At Casa Vallarta’s happy hour, that’s just what you get. And if margaritas aren’t your thing, draft beer is only $1.95 and well drinks are $2.50. From 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, the Mexican restaurant on South Parker Road offers up the best happy hour Aurora has to offer. Readers’ choice ZEPHYR LOUNGE 11940 E. COLFAX AVE. 303-364-8981

Best Night Club Critics’ choice CLUB REIGN 15373 E. 6TH AVE. UNIT B 303-367-0591 The Kasbah used to be an institution on Aurora’s nightlife scene, but Club Reign has replaced it and keeps the tradition alive as the place to be on almost any night of the week in Aurora. The name is different on the deceptively large venue in the strip mall on the northeast corner of 6th Avenue and Chambers Road, but the offerings are just as plentiful. The club still has popular Spoken Word nights on Thursday, where local poets can come to delight with their verses, while Club Reign also features a pool tournament on Tuesdays, Ladies Night on Wednesdays and Old School Fridays. If you go, make sure to dress up and leave hats, jerseys and athletic wear behind, as Club Reign has an extensive dress code. Readers’ choice ZEPHYR LOUNGE 11940 E. COLFAX AVE.

303-364-8981

Best Dance Hall Critics’ and readers’ choice STAMPEDE MESQUITE GRILL & DANCE EMPORIUM 2430 S. HAVANA ST. 303-696-7686 WWW.STAMPEDECLUB.NET Pull on those boots, put on that hat, and get ready to dance. With more than 35,000 square feet and two stories, the Stampede is the place to ﬁnd a hook up or just get

��

Celebrating CherryCreekSchools

! w o W

Aurora Sentinel readers selected: Smoky Hill High School as “Best School” Thunder Ridge Middle School science teacher Pam Schmidt as “Best Teacher” Grandview High School student Jake Campbell as ‘Best High School Male Athlete” Smoky Hill High School student Annie Perizzolo as “Best High School Female Athlete” Smoky Hill High School coach Scott Cohen as “Best Coach” Cherry Creek School District as “Best Employer”

Aurora Sentinel critics selected: Overland High School student Jeremy Rankin as “Best High School Male Athlete” Smoky Hill High School student Annie Perizzolo as “Best High School Female Athlete” Smoky Hill High School coach Danny Winsor as “Best Coach” Overland High School teacher Kara Powers as “Best Teacher”

Dedicated to Excellence Cherry Creek Schools

4700 South Yosemite Street Greenwood Village, CO 80111 www.cherrycreekschools.org

Tha Senti nk you for su nel reade ppo rs, Creek rting Cher ry Scho ols!

Page 12 | Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

HOME OF THE BEST WAFFLES –Critics’ Choice 2007

��

B E R N A ’S closet Buy! Sell!

"Best Place To Buy Women’s Clothing"

Consign!

Readers’ and Critics’ Choice 2007

Vintage & Gently Used Clothing Aurora, CO

��

Shannon Davidson/The Aurora Sentinel

Renting movies for free? Tallyn’s Reach Library, at 23911 E. Arapahoe Road, has a wide selection of the latest releases to NOVA specials. Oh, and there’s only a 20-cent-a-day late fee. That’s why it’s the critics’ choice for Best Place to Rent Movies.

��

A VOTED “Best Ice Cream”

your groove on. It’s the perfect arena to get away from the drudgery of the workplace and dance.

��

Best Live Music

��

�

��

�� www.aurorasentinel.com

Critics’ choice ILIFF PARK SALOON 2300 S. CHAMBERS ROAD 303-696-1404 WWW.ILIFFPARKSALOON.COM Everyone knows there are times when turning it up to 10 just won’t do. Sometimes you just need to go one louder. And at the Iliff Park Saloon, they go to 11 with some of the best bands and acts in the metro area. When you need some rock in your life, make the trek to Iliff Park, your ears won’t be disappointed. Readers’ choice ZEPHYR LOUNGE 11940 E. COLFAX AVE. 303-364-8981

Best Neighborhood Bar Critics’ choice THE ROYAL HILLTOP 18581 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 303-690-7738 WWW.ROYALHILLTOP.COM From across the parking lot the Royal Hilltop looks like the polar opposite of Cheers. But don’t be fooled by ﬁrst impressions or its location in a strip mall on East Hampden Avenue. Take a step inside and you’ll immediately be transported to a convivial pub more commonly found on cobblestones streets in England. Go for a bangers and mash or shepard’s pie dinner, or just a snack — the Hilltop offers a deepfried version of almost every food group. The Hilltop also boasts the “largest selection of imported beers on draught in Aurora.” But

that doesn’t give the atmosphere any airs, with Irish stouts side by side with trendy Czech pilsners and classic American pints like Coors Light. If you need something stiffer, take a look at the menu of 24 single-malt scotches. The inviting pub is so warm you’ll want to slip into a booth for beers with buddies, or pull up a seat at the bar to take in a ballgame often enough that everyone to learns your name. Hours: Monday and Tuesday 311 p.m.,; Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.,; Fridays and Saturdays 11 a.m. to midnight. Readers’ choice ZEPHYR LOUNGE 11940 E. COLFAX AVE. 303-364-8981

Best Funky Bar

Critics’ choice GRANDVIEW OFF-LEASH DOG PARK 17900 E. QUINCY AVE. OUTSIDE THE RESERVOIR, ALONG THE DAM Hot dog! Not only is there a wide-open space in Aurora where Fido can run, and run, and run and bark, bark, bark, but you and he can do it all for free. Yeah, the view from Cherry Creek Reservoir dog park is to die for, but the annual park fee isn’t. The Aurora park is not only yours but for the going, but there’s convenient parking, water and nearby trash cans, but there are no nearby horses or cyclists to activate unpleasant canine instincts. Readers’ choice CHERRY CREEK DOG PARK PARKER ROAD AND ORCHARD ROAD

Best Place to Ride Your Horse Critics’ choice GARY C’S 10139 COLFAX AVE. 303-367-0426 While it’s not immune from the “hole-in-the-wall” labels, Gary C’s is funky not because of some extravagant design or fancy liquor offerings; it’s because of its unique atmosphere. You get a great crosssection of the population sitting at the bar or playing pool — not to mention the occasional Denver Poker Tour event. Everything’s laid back, and the jukebox does exactly what it was born to do: Pair the perfect brew with the perfect tune. Readers’ choice ZEPHYR LOUNGE 11940 E. COLFAX AVE. 303-364-8981

Best Place to Take the Dog

Critics’ choice PAINT HORSE STABLES 4201 S. PARKER ROAD 303-690-8235 WWW.PAINTHORSESTABLES.COM Have an urge to ride a horse but don’t have time to head for the mountains? Don’t fret, just head off to south Aurora. That’s right, Colorado’s thirdlargest city has some primo horse riding turf. And Paint Stables at the Cherry Creek Reservoir is the best place in town when you need to saddle up. It’s just minutes from anywhere in town and it offers plenty of miles of trail for your four-legged enjoyment. Readers’ choice CHERRY CREEK RESERVOIR 4201 S. PARKER ROAD

��

Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

303-699-2501

� � � � � � � � ��

��

Best Park Critics’ choice AURORA SPORTS PARK 18601 E. SPORTS PARK DRIVE 303 326-8401 WWW.AURORAGOV.ORG The Sports Park has something for everyone. It’s a great jumping off point for hiking or biking the Sand Creek trail. Or if you’re more competitive in nature this summer’s hot spot offers 12 softball ﬁelds and 23 soccer/football ﬁelds. Even if you prefer to stay inside on the couch, there’s reason to appreciate Sports Park. It attracts softball tournaments from all over the country, which puts tourists money in city coffers. Readers’ choice UTAH PARK 1700 S. PEORIA ST. 303-696-4303

Best Swimming Pool Critics’ choice UTAH PARK 1700 S. PEORIA ST. 303-696-4303 Aurora has become well known in the metro area for its aquatic offerings, and the Utah Park pool is a big part of what the city is able to do in the water. Because of its popularity, the facility and the surrounding area have undergone a number of improvements recently. The indoor pool is a magnet all year, especially in the summer when people want to swim without baking in the scalding sun outside. Adults and senior citizens can swim laps or join any number of swimming classes or groups, while kids can play for hours, wetting each other with a high-powered water cannon. Readers’ choice AQUA VISTA 18700 E. WAGONTRAIL CIRCLE 303-680-7794

Best Place to Take a Long Walk Critics’ choice THE HIGHLINE CANAL Nothing like getting back to nature to get you back in a better frame of mind. And a stroll along the Highline Canal — anywhere west of Peoria Street, accessible just south of Del Mar Park — can dispel even the foulest of moods. Lush trees, a cool canal, curious plants and ﬂowers and regular zoo full of wildlife makes this a show for all ages and interests. Readers’ choice PLAINS CONSERVATION CENTER 21901 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 303-693-3621 WWW.PLAINSCENTER.ORG

��

�� Shannon Davidson/The Aurora Sentinel

H-Mart was named critics’ and readers’ choice for Best Specialty Grocer and Best Seafood Selection. Reservoir, the hub for trail rides in Aurora is Horseshoe Park. Riders can spin from there up Toll Gate Trail to High Line Canal and on to Sand Creek, down Toll Gate to Quincy Reservoir, out Powerline Trail to Great Plains Park or down Spillway Trail to Cherry Creek. Whatever your trail destination you can saddle up at Horseshoe. Readers’ choice CHERRY CREEK RESERVOIR

Best Place For a Workout Critics’ & Readers’ choice 24-HOUR FITNESS 4100 SOUTH PARKER ROAD 303-699-2400 & 18737 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 720-870-2408 WWW.24HOURFITNESS.COM Perfect for the ﬁt insomniac or anyone with the determination to make it to the gym and a busy schedule. With two Aurora locations, 24-Hour Fitness lives up to its name, offering convenience for night owls and early risers alike.

Best Golf Course Critics’ choice SPRINGHILL GOLF COURSE 800 TELLURIDE AVE. 303-739-6854 WWW.GOLFAURORA.COM With all due respect to the swank courses out in the southeast portion of the city, Springhill is the most hospitable course in the city for any golfer, from the advanced to the novice. One of Aurora’s seven municipal courses, Springhill has been a gem since 1973. Irrigated with non-potable water, the 4,992-yard, par 64 course located less than three miles east of I-225 is lush, green and unique. The course features an usual 10 par3 holes, making it a conﬁdencebuilder for new players and a chance to show off skills for more veteran golfers. Tiger Tees, which reduce the yardage to 3,671, are perfect for junior golfers. Readers’ choice SADDLE ROCK 21705 E. ARAPAHOE ROAD 303-699-3939

Best Place to Go Cycling Critics’ choice HORSESHOE PARK 2151 S. KITTREDGE WAY While many agree it is hard to beat the ride around Cherry Creek

| Page 13

Best Place to Do Nothing at All Critics’ choice CHERRY CREEK RESERVOIR 4201 S. PARKER ROAD 303-699-2501

WWW.PARKS.STATE.CO.US Whether you’re watching the sailboats or people on the beach, Cherry Creek Reservoir is the best place to do nothing at all. Getting a nice tan comes with the territory while you do nothing, but don’t make a habit of it — you should be out on the reservoir having as much fun as the people you’re watching. Readers’ choice ZEPHYR LOUNGE 11940 E. COLFAX AVE. 303-364-8981

Best Place to Go For a Drive Critics’ choice POWHATON ROAD SMOKY HILL ROAD SOUTH TO POWHATON ROAD, NORTH ON POWHATON ROAD TO THE DEAD END Starting just north of Cherokee Trail High School in southeast Aurora and running south to Parker, Powhaton Road was brought up in staff meetings as the best kept secret for Sunday drives. Sentinel staffers have seen everything from cows to deer zooming past their window. Named for the WWII prisoner of war camp that was stationed nearby, the road runs through one of Aurora’s many new subdivisions, then near the Aurora Reservoir and alongside grasslands and ranches until it reaches Parker. Readers’ choice CHERRY CREEK RESERVOIR 4201 S. PARKER ROAD 303-699-2501 WWW.PARKS.STATE.CO.US

Best Place to Take the Kids Critics’ choice PLAINS CONSERVATION CENTER 21901 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 303-693-3621 WWW.PLAINSCENTER.ORG The Plains Conservation Center offers a chance to show the kids one of the increasingly rare places where the deer and the antelope still play. It’s Little House on the Prairie brought to life with replicated tipis and homesteads on almost 9,000 beautiful acres just east of Aurora. Take the whole family on a sunset safari on a covered wagon or take a walk with a naturalist to learn about the animals and plants that make the plains their home. The center also offers full moon walks and lectures on a variety of topics including weather and bats.

��

Page 14 | Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007 Readers’ choice SOUTHLANDS AND AMAZING JAKE’S (TIE)

Best Place to Take Guests From Out of Town Critics’ choice ARAPAHOE PARK 2600 E. QUINCY AVE. 303-690-2400 WWW.WEMBLEYCO.COM/ARAPAHOE_PARK Summer is the most popular time for visitors to come to town, and a trip to Arapahoe Park is a perfect way to keep them entertained for at least one afternoon. The horse track is located just north of the Aurora Reservoir, but the distance is worth the unique trip for visitors of all ages. Adults can make any number of wagers on live or simulcast races or simply enjoy the spectacle of race day, while children can get an up-close look at the horses in the stables. Arapahoe Park, which is in its 16th racing season, opened in late May with racing every Saturday, Sunday and Monday through Aug. 12. Post times are 1 p.m. on weekends and 2 p.m. on Mondays.

Shannon Davidson/The Aurora Sentinel

Finding hidden treasures is hard work. Heirlooms Antique Mall, at 1947 S. Havana St., makes it easy. It won critics’ choice for Best Place to Go Antiquing.

Readers’ choice SOUTHLANDS OUTDOOR MALL WWW.SHOPSOUTHLANDS.COM

Best Place to Take Grandparents Critics’ Choice WINNERS BINGO 13678 E. ALAMEDA AVE. 303-343-0206 You know the feeling. That hot, rush and ﬂush when you’re only one number away from BINGO. The racing pulse, the dry mouth and the thrill of victory that brings a host of prizes and hefty cash jackpots at Winners Bingo. It doesn’t matter whether gramps is a retired rocket scientist or fresh from the farm, everybody likes to play, and win, at bingo. The parlor is clean, festive and boasts a topnotch snack bar. You don’t have to spend a lot and the chances are good you’re going to come home with something like the story about the time Gramma won the bingo jackpot. Readers’ choice THE ROCK 22934 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 303-690-7934

Best Store For New Books Critics’ and readers’ choice BARNES AND NOBLE 170 S. ABILENE ST. 303-340-4475 & 6300 S. MAIN STREET SUITE IN SOUTHLANDS

303-766-3069 WWW.BARNESANDNOBLE.COM From all-night Harry Potter festivals to a quick stop in to re-purchase a tattered and torn copy of your favorite book, Barnes and Noble is Aurora’s top spot to pick up new literature. The store also has reading parties, and has played host to the Aurora Public Library’s Waggin’ Tails program where children pick a book from the shelves to read to an attentive canine ear. With two locations as well as online service, Aurorans don’t have to go far to get wrapped up in a book. LeVar Burton would be proud.

Best Used Bookstore Critics’ and readers’ choice THE BOOK A NEAR 20209 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 720-886-0432 WWW.THEBOOKANEAR.COM Books from ﬂoor to ceiling make The Book A Near the favorite of the Aurora Sentinel. Store mascots Roxy and Sammy, a golden retriever and Labrador respectively, wander the store and entertain shoppers with the occasional tennis ball drop near your feet. Owner Corina Ramos is famous for not letting customers buy the same book twice — she knows you that well — and she’s on point with every volume stuffed into her shelves.

��

Activity Guide

Best Store For New or Used CDs Critics’ and readers’ choice ANGELO’S 16711 E. ILIFF AVE. 303-337-1399 WWW.ANGELOSCDS.COM/ AURORASTORE.HTM With iPods and MP3 players becoming almost as commonplace as cell phones, music seems to be moving more toward downloadable formats. Still, there’s nothing like unwrapping a brand new CD or ﬁnding a classic album by your favorite group in the bargain bin. As it has for quite awhile, Angelo’s has plenty of options for both. The store on the northwest corner of Buckley Road and Iliff avenue — one of two in the metro area — is Aurora’s quintessential stop for anything on a disc. There’s a vast selection of new and used CDs and DVDs, which they are always looking to buy. For those who like plenty of media, a free CD or DVD awaits when you purchase 14 at $6.99 or more.

Best Store For New or Used Video Games Critics’ and readers’ choice GAMESTOP MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.GAMESTOP.COM

Want to pick up the latest release or an old favorite? GameStop has a large collection of new and used games newer generation consoles from the PS2 to the Nintendo Wii. Gamers can also trade-in old games for credit toward new ones.

Need some tools or have some questions about how to start a new project? The courteous and knowledgeable staff of Ace Hardware can help.

Best Place to Rent Movies

Best Store to Get Your Garden Growing

Critics’ choice TALLYN’S REACH LIBRARY 23911 E. ARAPAHOE ROAD 303-627-3050 WWW.AURORALIBRARY.ORG/SCREENS/ LOCATIONTLR.HTML Movie rental giants Blockbuster and NetFlix might want to take some notes on their competition: local libraries. Free rentals for a week, a goodsized collection, and 20-cent-perday late fees have drawn quite a few people to the Tallyn’s Reach Library lately, library ofﬁcials said. Everything from NOVA documentaries to the most popular new releases are available for checkout. Readers’ choice BLOCKBUSTER MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.BLOCKBUSTER.COM

Best Hardware Store Critics’ and readers’ choice ACE HARDWARE MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.ACEHARDWARE.COM

��

Critics’ choice TAGAWA FLORIST AND GARDEN CENTER 7711 S. PARKER ROAD 303-690-4722 WWW.TAGAWAGARDENS.COM Even the greenest of green thumbs can turn their yard into the envy of the neighborhood with one stop to this garden center. You don’t have to have a truckbed full of ﬂora to get some helpful advice from the employees at Tagawa. In fact, the staff regularly conduct educational classes to help you grow your interest in gardening. If you’re ready and willing, you can become an expert in everything from bird feeding to rose bushes. And, of course, Tagawa has all the supplies to help you get started. Readers’ choice NICK’S 2001 S. CHAMBERS ROAD 303-696-6657 WWW.NICKSGARDENCENTER.COM

Best Floral Shop

��

�

��

Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

Critics’ and readers’ choice BLOOM’IN BEE 6140 S. GUN CLUB ROAD 303-766-1931 WWW.BLOOMINBEE.COM Veteran ﬂorists and longtime shop owners of the Bloom’in Bee Kerri and Susan will tell you what matters most to them: pleasing the customer. They walk the walk when it comes to that, making sure each creation, whether it’s something to eat, light, smell or ogle is exactly what buyers ordered and just what recipients wanted. That takes listening to customers and paying attention to detail.

Best Specialty Grocer Critics’ and readers’ choice H-MART 2751 S. PARKER ROAD 303-745-4592 WWW.HMART.COM The self-proclaimed (and uncontested) title of “Aurora’s largest Asian market” has more than 30 varieties of fresh ﬁsh. Focusing on Asian fare, this mega-grocery store of the East also has a wide range of cultural food items. Customers say they also like the choice of Asian vegetables. A national chain, the ﬁrst store opened in New York in 1982. Since then they have built locations across the country.

Best Seafood Selection Critics’ and readers’ choice H-MART 2751 S. PARKER ROAD 303-745-4592 WWW.HMART.COM H-Mart promotes the idea that you can achieve a better lifestyle through better food. And the Korean grocery delivers with its stellar seafood section that delivers the freshest ﬁsh and lots of them. With more than 30 varieties of fresh seafood every day, there’s always something special.

Best Meat Selection Critics’ and readers’ choice SIR LOIN MEAT SHOPPE & FRESH SEAFOOD 1910 S. HAVANA ST. 303-751-0707 SIRLOINSHOP.STORES.YAHOO.NET If you can grill it, smoke it, barbecue it or braise it, Sir Loin has it. All of your top-quality standard fare is there, but where else can you pick from rabbit, alligator, pheasant and live lobster? The staff will make sure you get exactly the cuts you want, which is vital to getting the most out of the time and effort you put into preparing your meat. Variety is matched by quality at Sir Loin, so trying wild boar for the ﬁrst time is not nearly as scary as it might sound.

Best Place to Buy Cheese Critics’ and readers’ choice KING SOOPERS MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.KINGSOOPERS.COM Alas, Aurora lacks someone devoting their lives to the worship

of streptococcus thermophilus and the kinds of wonderful cheese that comes from it. To ﬁll that void, local King Soopers stock a respectable supply of creamy local chevres and some darned ripe, important ones, too. Sharp feta snuggles up to packages of salty Gruyeres and crusty sheep’s-milk cheeses to make even the most homesick European forget about home for awhile.

Best Coﬀee Beans Critics’ and readers’ choice COFFEA ROSTIR 10890 E. DARTMOUTH AVE. 303-283-4077 WWW.COFFEAROSTIR.COM For the second year in a row, Steve Bush and his beans have taken the critics’ choice award. Opening his shop just over a two years ago now in the corner of a local deli, Bush said he was determined to bring Aurora the perfectly-roasted coffee bean. Now at his new location, Bush has more space for customers to relax and get their caffeine ﬁx.

��

We are “Deli-Fresh”

��

� ��

Critics’ choice THE DOLLAR TREE MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.DOLLARTREE.COM It’s cheapskate Nirvana, folks. Where else can you ﬁll a cart full of goodies for the home and garden and spend less than $50. We’re not talking out-of-season junk destined to star in a garage sale near you. Dollar Tree stores are clean, bright and stocked full of honestto-gawd bargains everyone brags about.

��

Over 40 Subs to Select From

��

Best Place to Pinch Pennies ‘Til They Scream

��

�

| Page 15

�� Voted Best Breakfast ��

Voted Best French Fries ��

Old Fashioned Shakes & Malts ��

Voted Best Burger ��

YOUR ONLY BLUE BUNNY ICE CREAM DESTINATION

��

Readers’ choice ARC THRIFT STORES 3106 S. PARKER ROAD 303-283-0337 & 10000 E. COLFAX AVE. 303-343-9843 WWW.ARCTHRIFT.COM

Best Place to Drop a Wad and Not Feel Guilty Critics’ choice FLORENCE GRIFFITH STUDIOS 1556 FLORENCE ST. 303-680-6389 If you’re a feeling human being, you gotta have art. And while these days it’s hard to justify dragging out the credit card payments even longer than they already last for something cool to look at. But the Florence art co-op offers incredible prices for functional-yetgorgeous pottery, and the money goes to help feed a starving artist. And if you’re wallet’s a bit thicker, wander into the East End Applied Arts or Sunshine Gallery across the hall and assuage your guilt at a new level.

��

Readers’ choice UNIQUE THRIFT STORE AND ARC (TIE)

Best Place to Buy New Furniture

��

Us Vot ed ed Th Boo Be an k st k y Sto o u re !

Page 16 | Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

��

�� 20209 E. Smoky Hill Rd.

(NE corner of Smoky Hill/Himalaya, next to Chipotle)

��

Best Neighborhood Bar ��

�� Shannon Davidson/The Aurora Sentinel

Bonaroo Tattoo, at 15464 E. Mississippi Ave., won critics’ choice for Best Place to Get a Tattoo in Aurora.

��

Critics’ choice BROYHILL HOME COLLECTIONS 10180 E. COLFAX AVE. 303-364-3178 WWW.BROYHILLOFDENVER.COM

��

�� 3 Locations to Serve You 901 S. Havana St. 303-341-2611 15355 E. Colfax 303-340-3200 Se Habla Español

16860 E. Iliff 303-695-3005

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Aurora’s Largest Inventory

��

★

��

� ��

��

The best place to buy furniture in Aurora has two things going for it: the Thompson family and Broyhill designs and furnishings. While the massive store on East Colfax offers a huge variety of styles, they all come with Broyhill quality and the Thompson’s personal guarantee. One of best part of this store is it’s website, www.broyhillofdenver.com. Browse the Broyhill decorating guide, then check out styles and offerings, then go into the store to have the Thompsons help you ﬁnd what you really want, rather than what you will settle for. Readers’ choice AMERICAN FURNITURE 700 S. ABILENE ST 303-368-8555 WWW.AFWONLINE.COM

Best Place to Buy Used Furniture Critics’ choice UNIQUE THRIFT STORE 16801 E. ILIFF AVE. 303-283-0364 With plenty of places to chose from off Colfax, Sentinel staff were hard pressed to ﬁnd the top of the town when buying used ottomans. But the Unique Thrift Store took the prize this year, with their everrevolving stock of used — but not too used — furniture at bargain prices. Readers’ choice LITTLE TYKES TRADING POST 15250 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 720-870-7191 WWW.LITTLETYKESTRADINGPOST.COM

��

Best Place to Buy Stuﬀ for Babies Critic’s and Readers’ choice LITTLE TYKES TRADING POST 15250 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 720-870-7191 WWW.LITTLETYKESTRADINGPOST.COM It should stand to reason that any place named Little Tykes would be our favorite for best place to buy stuff for babies. Check out their selection for your little one, and remember if you’re a grandparent that likes to spoil your grandkids, Tuesday’s are always 10 percent off.

Best Place to Get Erotica and Naughty Thangs Critics’ choice FASCINATIONS 2680 S. HAVANA ST. 303-750-5200 WWW.FASCINATIONS.COM If you can’t ﬁnd something you are looking for in terms of erotica or “naughty thangs” at the Fascinations superstore, we are concerned about you. The 7,400 square-foot store on Yale ave.nue between Parker Road and Havana Street is big enough to play football in, but it also houses an incredible array of goods from the entertaining to the titillating and beyond. If you are buying a gag gift for a bachelor or bachelorette party, you are well covered, but there are also plenty of things that inﬂate, vibrate or lubricate as well. Take a break from roaming the store by sitting down at some tables in the reading sec-

� ��

�� READERS’ CHOICE 2007

��

Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

tion and enjoy some free coffee or water. Readers’ choice CHRISTAL’S 2750 S. PARKER ROAD 303-597-0188

Best Craft and Hobby Store Critics’ and readers’ choice HOBBY LOBBY 441 SABLE BLVD. 303-360-9269 HTTP://WWW.HOBBYLOBBY.COM Love building model cars or knitting quilts, or just need something framed? Hobby Lobby has it all and then some. The massive craft and hobby store has just about everything one needs for a fun project. Plus with all the weekly specials, picking up new hobbies become quite enticing.

Best Place to Buy Electronics Critics’ and readers’ choice BEST BUY 13801 E. MISSISSIPPI AVE. 303-338-5795 5999 S. SOUTHLANDS PARKWAY 303-693-0166 WWW.BESTBUY.COM iPods? check. washer/dryer/ television combinations? check. car stereos? check. Pretty much everthing electronic under the sun is under the big yellow tag out front of Best Buy. As locally-owned electronics stores fall by the wayside, this corporate giant is becoming the place to get the latest Playstation 3 games, DVD releases and top-of-the-line televisions.

Best Place to Get Comics Critics’ and readers’ choice ALL C’S COLLECTIBLES 1250 S. ABILENE ST. WWW.ALLCSCOLLECTIBLES.COM A staple of Aurora for about 20 years now, All C’s Collectibles has grown to be the premier place for comic books in town. Its huge collection of classic and newly released comics from DC, Marvel and a smörgåsbord of smaller publications makes it a one-stop spot for comic ﬁends.

Best Place to Get Sports Cards Critics’ and readers’ choice MIKE’S STADIUM SPORTSCARDS 4022 S. PARKER ROAD WWW.MIKESSS.COM Mike’s Stadium Sportscards is a haven for avid sports cards collectors. Owner Michael Fruitman keeps it fun for his customers with monthly giveaways and drawings

for rare cards. In addition to his wide selection, Fruitman keeps his clientèle informed with the latest releases through his regular e-mail list.

Best Place to Buy Art Critics’ choice THE OTHER SIDE ARTS (TOSA) 1400 DALLAS ST. 720-726-2335 WWW.THEOTHERSIDEARTS.ORG/ AURORA1.CFM?TITLE=AURORA The city of Aurora has taken great strides to attract artists of all kinds and disciplines to its designated area on Colfax, and The Other Side Arts is one of the cornerstones of this determined effort. Housed in an old police substation that underwent massive renovation in 2005, TOSA is a veritable buffet of art waiting to ﬁnd its way into local collections or serve as unique gifts. With a large main gallery space and a number of small offshoots, many mediums are on display and prices are reasonable given that many of the talented artists are trying to establish names for themselves. Readers’ choice EAST END APPLIED ARTS 1556 FLORENCE ST. 720-203-3575 WWW.AURORAARTGALLERY.COM

Best Place For Home Furnishings Critics’ choice COST PLUS WORLD MARKET 13940 E. MISSISSIPPI AVE. 303-745-0311 WWW.WORLDMARKET.COM Cost Plus World Market is easily the best place to get the some seriously funky stuff for your abode. Cost Plus deﬁnitely has contemporary fare for living rooms and bedrooms, but the store shines with it’s wide selection of unique pieces that give any home a little bit of style. Try and ﬁnd the best place in your house for a handcarved wood monkey wearing a fez hat. Readers’ choice AMERICAN FURNITURE 1700 S. ABILENE 303-368-8555 WWW.AFWONLINE.COM

Best Place to Go Antiquing Critics’ choice HEIRLOOMS ANTIQUE MALL 1947 S. HAVANA ST 303-337-6880 It’s not so much the size of Heirloom’s that is impressive, it’s how much stuff they have packed into that space. The expert and knowledgeable staff can also appraise items. From antique furniture to vin-

tage LP’s, whatever you are looking for — and likely plenty of stuff you weren’t looking for but will wind-up taking home — is here. Readers’ choice HAMPDEN ANTIQUES 8964 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 303-721-7992 WWW.HAMPDENSTREETANTIQUES.COM

Best Tobacco Shop

Thank You Aurora for Voting Us

BEST BARBER SHOP Readers’ Choice 2007 and 2006

��

Readers’ choice TOBACCO STATION 17200 E. ILIFF AVE. 303-750-3011 From commonplace American Gold to speciality cigarettes, Tobacco Station is the place to put it in your pipe and smoke it. Readers’ choice TOBACCO STATION AND SMOKER FRIENDLY (TIE)

��

Critics’ choice SAFEWAY MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.SAFEWAY.COM

Readers’ choice THE DOLLAR TREE MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.DOLLARTREE.COM

Best Place to Buy Men’s Clothing Critics’ choice THE MEN’S WEARHOUSE 14181 E. CEDAR AVE. 303-360-0431 & 6262 S. CENTRAL ST. 303-627-6341 WWW.MENSWEARHOUSE.COM When you grow up enough to know that your Nikes aren’t going to get you that promotion, it’s time to head to the Men’s Wearhouse. For those few men who love to linger and shop, cheerful sales assistants are happy to show you shirts that really do still look good

��

13694 E. Alameda Ave. • 303-363-8114

Best Place to Get the Perfect Gift in a Hurry

Last-minute shopping is as much a staple of people in Aurora as anywhere else, and Safeway is a sure way to get bailed out of a tough situation. With scores of Aurora locations, there’s likely a Safeway on the way to just about any occasion and open at any time. Flowers and a card can be a winning combination and you can ﬁnd plenty of each with ease, but the store’s massive gift card kiosk is the real jackpot. With rows and rows of gift cards of various sizes, you can ﬁnd a card for absolutely anybody. Choices for movies, music, food and merchandise are abundant, just don’t spend too much time or you might be late!

| Page 17

�� s’ der Rea ice Cho

• Best Place to Take a Long Walk • Best Place to Watch Prairie Dogs • Best Tree in Aurora

Check us out & Attend a Program 9-11am

Aug. 11 A Day in the Life of a Country Doctor Sept. 8 Insects & Spiders Oct. 13 Birds in Migration

ics’ Crit ice Cho

• Best Place to Take the Kids

See our website for more information & registration

Saturday, Sept 29 10am-4pm

Live music & games • cider • wagon rides birds of prey & animals • contests 21901 E. Hampden Ave. Aurora

303-693-3621

www.plainscenter.org

��

Page 18 | Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

�

��

BEST ICE CREAM & 50¢ OFF FROZEN Any regular YOGURT or large cup

��

303-337-0323

Critics’ Choice 2007

OPEN EVERY DAY 11:00 AM TIL 10:00 PM

�� Readers’ Choice 2007

Best latte Best cup o’ joe Best bagels

Only a few reasons to make us your Coffee House Smoother Drip Coffee Creamier Lattes Best Bagels Locally Owned Small Business Supporting Local Churches, Schools, Associations Free WI-FI Low Carb Alternatives

Why not stop by?

Pioneer Hills Marketplace Aurora

720.876.1500 ��

S. Parker Road

S. Parker & Chambers Roads

Chambers Road

Life’s A Grind Without Our Coffee

TOP NOODLE RESTAURANT

–Critics’ Choice 2007

��

781 S. Federal Blvd. • (303) 922-2930 3049 W. 7th Ave. • (303) 412-0428

1080 S. Havana St. • (303) 344-0752 6650 W. 120th Ave. • (303) 439-0028

after several washings and a vast array of suits with price tags that belong on suits rather than cars. If shopping is as much fun for you as making good on that long overdue colonoscopy, relax. Just drive over. Walk in. Tell them what you do for a living. Tell them how much you want to spend. Stand still long enough for a couple of painless measurements. Come back later and everything’ll be all boxed up. If you’re certain about your size, you can even call ahead. If you’re looking for dirt-cheap seconds, look somewhere else. If you want to look like a grown-up without having to take out a second mortgage, you’ve found the spot. Readers’ choice KOHL’S 6584 S. PARKER ROAD 303-690-0111 WWW.KOHLS.COM

Best Place to Buy Women’s Clothing Critics’ and readers’ choice BERNA’S CLOSET 12293 E. ILIFF AVE. STE B 303-671-6592 ARMOIR BY BERNA’S CLOSET 5001 S. PARKER ROAD 303-690-6592 WWW.BERNASCLOSET.COM The ladies at Berna’s Closet feel that a women’s clothing resale shop should provide current fashions at affordable prices. And with their ﬂagship store on Iliff, they have turned that idea into one of Aurora’s top boutiques. Making shopping fun is another goal of owners Dee Constance and Debbie Kirschman, who throw “Girls Gone Wild” parties at the stores, with snacks, drinks and discounted prices. Whether you are looking to pick up a new outﬁt for a night on the town, or selling a pair of expensive jeans that didn’t look as good on you as they did in the mall, Berna’s Closet, and their sister-store Armoire in Centennial, is the place to go.

Best Place to Buy Kids’ Clothing Critics’ choice TARGET MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.TARGET.COM It’s inexpensive and they’ll probably grow out of ’em in a year or so, so you might as well make it easy on yourself. Target has got a wide selection of clothes for your little ones and it’s reasonably priced. They’ve got a special section for school uniforms if their school mandates it, and you can pick up some milk while you’re there as well. Readers’ choice LITTLE TYKES TRADING POST

Shannon Davidson/The Aurora Sentinel

Clean shirt, new shoes and every girl’s crazy bout a sharp-dressed man. Aurora Police Detective Marcus Dudley was named critics’ choice for Best Dressed Man About the Town. 15250 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 720-870-7191 WWW.LITTLETYKESTRADINGPOST.COM

Best Pet Store Critics’ choice PET PALACE 4082 S. PARKER ROAD 303-699-4554 WWW.PETPALACE.NET On the corner of Parker Road and Quincy Avenue, you’ll ﬁnd a place that’s interested in far more than stocking the shelves with food for your furry friend, collars and leashes. Pet Palace is one of those special places where you can not only learn about how to care for

��

Best Liquor Store 3 YEARS IN A ROW! Readers’ Choice 2005, 2006 and 2007

Best Place to Buy Wine at a Store

-Critics’ Choice 2005, 2007 Readers’ Choice 2006, 2007

your animal, but also to get Fido looked at if something goes awry. The walk-in animal clinic is open Monday through Saturday. Also, this is one of the best places in the metro to buy ﬁsh, with about 1,400 gallons of freshwater ﬁsh available. In short, the best doggone pet store in town. Readers’ choice PETSMART MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.PETSMART.COM

Best Pet Service Critics’ Choice B& B FOR DOG

��

Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

Bad hair day? week? month? Maybe it’s time you try something new... This national-chain salon has gained a reputation across the country as being the place to get top-of-the-line products at a decent price. Services include hair cuts, coloring, texturing, facials, hair removal as well as complimentary hair and skin evaluations. Selling many of their own products and offering a full-service salon, it wasn’t hard to pick them as Aurora’s top salon.

Best Place to Get a Tattoo Critics’ choice BONAROO TATTOO 15464 E. MISSISSIPPI AVE. 303-695-0221 WWW.BONAROOTATTOO.COM Itching for some ink? Maybe a touch up on your older tattoo? Or you’ve got an unpleasant “Vanilla Ice 4Ever” reminder of a spring break spent in Daytona Beach in 1992 that needs to reform into something else, Bonaroo’s the place to be. Jerry and Ken have the skill — and needles — necessary for you to ink to your heart’s desire. Readers’ choice BOUND BY DESIGN 1332 E. COLFAX AVE. 303-832-8282 WWW.BOUNDBYDESIGN.COM Shannon Davidson/Aurora Sentinel & Daily Sun

From her stylish pantsuits to elegant tops, the legend of Zelda DeBoyes’ fashion statement has been known to her coworkers for some time. This year, she was named critics’ choice for Best Dressed Woman About the Town. 10 SOUTH POTOMAC 303-361-0061 This is the kind of place that will make all your dogless friends roll their eyes until they hurt. But for those who know who the most important member of the family really is, you’ve come to the spot for Spot. B&B for DOG doesn’t just house your pet while you’re at work or away, they pamper every poodle and Labrador that rents a suite, single, double or triple. Pets are constantly rubbed, cooed at, walked and played with, getting more attention than Spot’s human brother or sister gets at his day care. If your baby needs a bath before you pick him up, or if they like to have their rug turned down before they go to bed, they can take care of that, too.

720-870-3423 24101 E. ORCHARD ROAD 303-627-0060 WWW.ULTA.COM

Best Hair Salon Critics’ choice RUMORS BEAUTY SALON AND BARBERSHOP 2350 S. CHAMBERS ROAD & 23955 E. PLAZA AVE. 720-748-1400

Critics’ and readers’ choice ULTA SALON 6360 S. PARKER ROAD

Best Barber Shop

WWW.RUMORSHAIRSALON.COM The addition of a second location at Southlands has only bolstered the reputation of Rumors, bringing its brand of styling and services to a broader range of Aurora. With their full menu of stylings, wax, make-up, chemical treatments and men’s hair services, one could end up spending a lot of time keeping up their appearance. Luckily, Rumors has WiFi access so you can keep working while the staff works on your ‘do. And as always, the shop talk among customers and employees is just as good as the name suggests. Readers’ choice CREATIVE CUTS 13692 E. ALAMEDA AVE. # A 303-367-1222

Best Nail Salon

Critics’ choice FANTASTIC SAM’S MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.FANTASTICSAMS.COM When it comes to haircuts, men tend to be creatures of habit. “Just a bit off the top,” or “use a number-two clipper on the back and a three up top” are about as detailed as it gets. Which makes having a place like Fantastic Sam’s around even better. Staff can help ﬁnd a style that’s right for you or just keep to the old standby. And unlike pricey salons that charge and arm and a leg, Fantastic Sam’s is just right on the wallet with affordable haircuts for the whole family. And with eight locations around Aurora, there’s no need to keep on looking like a shaggy dog. Readers’ choice IVAN’S 13694 E. ALAMEDA AVE. 303-363-8114

Critics’ choice CHOICE NAILS 18575 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 303-680-2111 Although it’s a bit of a drive down Smoky Hill, the time invested in going to and patronizing Choice Nails will be well worth it when they’re finished giving your hands and feet a makeover. The service is hard to top, and the finished products look every bit as professional as you might find in a high-end metro shop. Add in the reasonable prices and you’ve got a winner in our book. Readers’ choice MOUNTAIN FALLS DAY SPA 15273 E. SMOKY HILL ROAD 303-693-0434 WWW.MOUNTAINFALLSSALONANDDAYSPA.COM

Best Laundry or Dry Cleaner Critics’ choice FAIRWAY CLEANERS 1627 S. HAVANA ST. 303-743-9080 Medium starch? Or light on the iron in the seat of your trousers? Fairway Cleaners has got it covered. Readers’ choice DRY CLEANING VALETS 20662 E. GIRARD DRIVE 303-766-0119 WWW.DRYCLEANINGVALETS.COM

��

Readers’ choice PETSMART MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.PETSMART.COM

Best Salon

| Page 19

��

�� Catering available for business meetings & parties. Call 303-708-9333

��

�

��

All-You-Can-Eat Pizza Buffet

��

CiCi’s

��

Page 20 | Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007 Best Used Car Dealer Critics’ and readers’ choice SUSS BUICK PONTIAC GMC 1301 S. HAVANA ST. 303-751-3400 WWW.SUSS.NET

Thank You! For Voting Us

"BEST LATTE" Critics Choice 2007 COME TASTE THE DIFFERENCE

50¢ off Aurora’s Best Latte Valid with this coupon. Offer expires 9/2/07

Suss has earned a reputation for being the center of the universe of quality used program cars. But what many don’t know is that you can shop their huge inventory down to checking out the tread on the tires without ever leaving your home or ofﬁce. Each car can be auditioned online at www. suss.net. The pictures are big and bright, revealing plenty of detail. Each car has a long and substantive description of features and condition. When you get to the car lot, you get the feeling the salesman is working to show you what you want, not what he needs to sell. The only thing missing from the whole experience is the newcar price.

Gourmet Coffee & Espresso Fresh Baked Daily: Breakfast Burritos Empanadas Scones

All of our coffees are: Fair Trade, Organic and 20971 Smoky Hill Road Shade Grown (Smoky Hill & Picadilly Behind Rite Aid) www.carinocoffee.com • 303.766.7272

WOW! Voted:

Best New Car Dealer

• Best Place To

Buy Furniture-Readers'

Keeping the cost of growing up down!

• Best Place To Buy Stuff For Babies-Readers' • Best Place To Buy Kids Clothing-Readers'

A Kids’ Consignment Center • Toys • Clothes Furniture • Equipment • Maternity Clothes

15250 E. Hampden Ave. • 720-870-7191

��

Best Car Wash Critics’ choice FOUR SEASONS CAR WASH 3060 S. HAVANA ST. 303-752-4440 We all know that washing your car fundamentally changes the weather sometimes. Every time you wash your car, it seems to rain. At Four Seasons, they’re offering to help with your dilemma with Mother Nature and your car. Four Seasons offers a 48-hour guarantee against rain and snow when you get a Platinum Wash there, so if rain rears it’s head after a wash, take it back and they’ll do it over again. The hand wash is meticulous and thorough, and prices are reasonable.

Best Oil Change Critics’ choice AUTAWASH 2291 S HAVANA ST. (303) 695-9331 WWW.AUTAWASH.COM

With Internet pricing, no-dicker stickers and computerized inventories, ﬁnding the car you want at the best price is a matter of web searches not persistence or luck. What sets car dealers apart now is service. Ed Bozarth Chevrolet takes service to a new level. Every employee on the lot and service center oozes with genuine eager-to-please. These aren’t your smarmy “just-get-’em-to-sign” types, the Ed Bozarth staff make you wish you had a reason to stop in more often.

Although it features a 10-minute oil change, the best part is that Autawash will clean your car as well. You’ll be able to get your car washed inside and out, vacuumed and towel dried.

Readers’ choice STEVENSON TOYOTA 444 S. HAVANA ST. 303-340-2170 WWW.STEVENSONAUT.COM

Critics’ choice TCF BANK MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.TCFBANK.COM

Critics’ choice ALWAYS TAN 18658 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 720-876-1515 WWW.AURORATANNING.COM Once again, Lee Pierce’s Always Tan salon takes the prize for top place to get your bronze on in Aurora. With beds imported from Italy and sunless spray-on options, you don’t have to fry in U.V. rays to get that golden color. Readers’ choice ALWAYS TAN AND TAN ON THE BOULEVARD (TIE)

Readers’ choice GREASE MONKEY MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.GREASEMONKEY.COM

Best Bank

Most banks only stay open Monday through Friday and until noon on Saturday. At TCF Bank, the door’s open seven days a week. Readers’ choice 1ST BANK MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.EFIRSTBANK.COM

��

Readers’ Choice 2007

Critics’ choice AUTOZONE MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.AUTOZONE.COM The four Aurora branches of the AutoZone national chain continue to hum like a well-maintained engine. The stores feature a vast number of parts to keep your car running smoothly or looking its best, whether you are a grease monkey who likes working under the hood or just want to customize the interior. In addition to helpful staffs who will ﬁnd a part at another store if they don’t have it in stock, AutoZones also feature free battery charging, check engine light help and loan-a-tool service that can bail you out in a jam. The AutoZone Rewards program can help you build up enough credit to get a free pair of fuzzy dice or all the pine tree air fresheners you can handle. Readers’ choice NAPA AUTO PARTS MULTIPLE LOCATIONS WWW.NAPAONLINE.COM

Critics’ and readers’ choice PULL-N-SAVE 11602 E. 33RD AVE. 303-365-2001 WWW.PULLNSAVE.COM

Critics’ choice GREAT VINES 6140 S. GUN CLUB ROAD # J1 303-617-8800 WWW.GREATVINESLIQUORS.COM Located in the Saddle Rock Market shopping center, Great Vines Liquors is eastern Aurora’s oasis on the plains with 27 coolers stocked with more than beers, thousands of bottles of wine and

��

Critics’ and readers’ choice CHAMBERS WINE AND LIQUOR 15260 E. ILIFF AVE. 303-751-6935 WWW.CHAMBERSWINEANDLIQUOR.COM

Best Auto Graveyard

Best Liquor Store

��

Best Place to Buy Wine at a Store

Best Place to Buy Auto Parts

Critics’ choice ED BOZARTH CHEVROLET 2001 S. HAVANA ST. 303-751-7500 WWW.EDBOZARTH.COM

Best Tanning Salon

Readers’ choice CHAMBERS WINE AND LIQUOR 15260 E. ILIFF AVE. 303-751-6935 WWW.CHAMBERSWINEANDLIQUOR.COM

Need a good merlot to accompany that roasted lamb for dinner? Want to get some chardonnay to go with some ﬁsh? Or do you want some pinot noir because Paul Giamatti’s character in “Sideways” drank it? Chambers Wine and Liquor has it all.

Readers’ choice THREE PALMS 5384 S. PARKER ROAD 303-766-7333 WWW.THREEPALMSAUTOSPA.COM

��

VOTED "BEST Place To Eat Brunch"

more than 200 different liquors. With a knowledgeable staff, including in-house wine and liquor experts, ﬁnding that perfect chianti for dinner couldn’t be easier.

We didn’t think it was possible, but the best just keeps getting better. This is isn’t your usual dirt-lot where old cars go to die. Pull-NSave has more than a 1,000 cars just ripe with working parts you’re looking for propped up on clean concrete. Everybody gets a wheelbarrow and the best prices in

��

Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

town. If that isn’t enough, they list new acquisitions on their website and have killer special sales on things that matter, like window glass. And your reward for getting the parts you want without risking you life to snakes and dead raccoons? A clean place to wash the grease from your hands and a burrito stand selling one of the best, cheapest lunches in Aurora. It’s the Disneyland of car-part lots for do-it-your-selfers.

Best Movie Theater Critics’ choice MOVIE TAVERN 18605 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 303-680-7378 WWW.MOVIETAVERN.COM Simply having popcorn and a Coke at the movies is becoming so last-year thanks to Aurora’s newest movie theater — Movie Tavern. At the push of a button at your overstuffed leather seat, grill fare and cool pints of beer are brought out to you by wait staff — meaning you never have to worry about catching up on what you missed while re-ﬁlling that 44 oz. bucket of soda. Just don’t drink too much, however, since you still have to get up to go to the bathroom. Readers’ choice KERASOTES SOUTHLANDS STADIUM 16 23955 E. PLAZA AVE.

Best Employer Critics’ Choice COSTCO 1471 S. HAVANA ST. WWW.COSTCO.COM Not just Aurora, there are many that believe a Costco job is the best one in the world. That would explain why Costco has the lowest turnover rate in the retail industry. They pay a higher average salary, about $17 an hour. Costco offers health beneﬁts and it shows in surveys that they like going to work. Employees point out that the work ethic and respect comes from the top, something that they’re happy to bring to work with them every day. Readers’ choice CHERRY CREEK SCHOOL DISTRICT WWW.CCSD.K12.CO.US

Best Local Politician Critics’ choice SEN. BOB HAGEDORN, D-AURORA Hagedorn had a very good year. Something the longtime Aurora politician won’t be having many more of — at least not in the state senate where he’s term limited in 2008. But some of his most memorable accomplishments came

this year as he successfully passed a bill to establish a program giving low-income and uninsured Coloradans discounts on generic prescription drugs by using the state’s buying power to make at-cost bulk purchases of the medicines and another aimed at getting healthcare to children. Not only does Hagedorn have something to sing about, he’s got already got the song picked out. He made nation news this year when he successfully fought to make John Denver’s “Rocky Mountain High” the state’s second ofﬁcial song, although he claims to be a horrible warbler. Readers’ choice MORGAN CARROLL

Best-Dressed Man About the Town Critics’ choice MARCUS DUDLEY AURORA POLICE DETECTIVE Dudley is rarely at a loss for words. As a spokesman for the police department, Dudley regularly ﬁnds himself talking to the press about anything from homicides to robberies. But try to get Dudley to talk about his wardrobe — from his dapper suits to his slick ties — and Dudley admits he has a bit more trouble ﬁnding the words. But the man with a collection of about 65 ties said he’s glad to know people notice the effort he puts into representing the department. “It’s always an honor to be noticed for something that you put effort into,” he said. “And as a representative of the police department, I always want to make sure that I represent it the best I can.” And if representing APD means being a sharp dresser, well, Dudley doesn’t mind. Readers’ choice PAUL TAUER

Best-Dressed Woman About the Town Critics’ choice ZELDA DEBOYES, COURT ADMINISTRATOR FOR THE CITY OF AURORA Her friends and coworkers say this was the perfect choice for this year’s Best-Dressed Woman award. With her own personal style that coworker Gale Livingston says is “very professional from the shoes to everything.” From stylish pantsuits to elegant tops, DeBoyes is setting trends while maintaining a classic sense of style. “I think you made an excellent choice this year, I have to agree with you,” Livingston said. “She’s our million-dollar baby.” Readers’ choice KATE TAUER

��

Best School Critics’ choice AURORA FRONTIER K-8 3200 S. JERICHO WAY 303-693-1995 HTTP://WWW.APS.K12.CO.US/FRONTIER Bringing together the newest technology and the latest push in childhood education, Aurora Frontier and its kindergarten through eighth-grade model are setting the bar for future Aurora Public School’s development. The school is in the Conservatory development, where principal Cassie Parra and her family live within eye-shot of the school, and Superintendent John Barry is also right around the corner. ““I think, for me, by living in the community I know the pulse of the community and get a feel for what is important to people. I think it’s a great situation,” Parra said.

��

Critics’ choice GABRIELLE JOHNSTON She’s the perky public information ofﬁcer who provides the public (and the press) the information they crave. Johnston, a former re-

��

17200 E. Iliff Ave, A-3 • Aurora

��

(303) 750-3011

��

t Bes ist e L �� n i W ��

Bes t Exp to G Place e e �� nsive Wt �� ine ��

��

ni arti s M t is Bes olate K �� hoc C

Critics’ choice KARA POWERS AVID INSTRUCTOR — OVERLAND HIGH SCHOOL

Best Government Employee

��

TOBACCO STATION #1

Best Teacher

Readers’ choice PAM SCHMIDT, THUNDER RIDGE MIDDLE SCHOOL

��

Readers’ choice SMOKY HILL HIGH SCHOOL SMOKY.CCSD.K12.CO.US

Powers said her biggest joy in teaching is knowing when her students graduate that they are onto bigger and better things on a college campus. Powers has been the instructor for the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program at Overland. The program helps students search out and apply for college and scholarships and for many they are the ﬁrst in their families to do so. Powers also works with students to prepare for the workload and stresses that come with higher education. She says watching students move on is the reason she still teaches. “You have a student for four years and watch them go from being educationally shy around teachers to watching them get into college and get scholarships,” she said. “I want them to succeed in college. I want them to be able to go and be able to read any text or hear any lecture and understand it and be able to use it.”

| Page 21

��

Bes to P t Place Div ick Up �� orcees ��

��

t Bes ist e L �� n i W ��

Best Place to Get Expensive Wine

��

lace Best P Up k c to Pi ees r o Div c ��

��

� � ��

��

Page 22 | Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007 great tome, but the indoor courtyard, art gallery and numerous other amenities beckon us to sit down and spend some time surrounded by the great works of yesterday and today. And if you’re just looking for some non-reading entertainment, the library holds plenty of story times for children and even features live music from time to time.

Best Use of Concrete Critics’ choice MEDIAN ON PARKER ROAD

Edwards, Rankin exploded onto the national scene prior to his sophomore year. He set the national sophomore record in the 60-meter dash in Baltimore and capped a fantastic season by wining the 5A 100-meter dash with a time of 10.32 seconds, which at the time matched the best time in the entire country. Rankin was picked to run for Team USA at the World Youth Championships in the Czech Republic. Readers’ choice JAKE CAMPBELL BASKETBALL, GRANDVIEW

Parker Road is a big, fast street. Before the median was built, there was no barrier preventing someone from crossing over into oncoming trafﬁc. This new construction piece no doubt, can save many lives.

Readers’ choice LAURA DUNSTON, REGIS, AND SCOTT COHEN, SMOKY HILL (TIE)

Best Actor

Readers’ choice SIDEWALKS

Best Place to Watch Prairie Dogs Critics’ choice DELANEY FARM 170 S. CHAMBERS ROAD 303-361-2950

Courtney Oakes/The Aurora Sentinel

Few have ran the 100-meter dash in 10.32 seconds. Overland High School’s Jeremy Rankin did it as a sophomore in high school, and that’s why he’s the critics’ choice for Best High School Male Athlete. porter, uses her media credentials to make sure the press takes notice of Aurora’s often-overlooked sunny side. Her almost excessively cheery dual dedication to the city and press deadlines help Aurora put its best face forward every day. Readers’ choice PETER BINNEY AND ALICE LEE MAIN (TIE)

Best Police Officer Critics’ choice GRETCHEN FRONAPFEL Here in Aurora, it’s easy to choose the best cop. That’s not a knock on the other officers who don the city’s badge, it just means there is one officer who isn’t just the best in Aurora, she is the reigning best officer in Colorado. Fronapfel, who earlier this year won the Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police Officer of the Year Award for her work on witnesskilling case, is as deserving of the honor as anyone in the city. Readers’ choice DON BLACK

Best Fireﬁghter Critics’ choice

JACK BRANUM Firefighters are no strangers to adversity. But in his more than 30 years with the Aurora fire department, Branum has seen more than even the average firefighter. In addition to putting out countless blazes, the man who runs Station No. 2 won a bout with cancer that doctors said wasn’t winnable. And if you ever get the chance to see Branum and his crew in action, you realize that Capt. Jack has as much fun at his job as anyone. Readers’ choice SIX TIED

Best Public Library

Like a giant whack-a-mole game, the ﬁelds near DeLaney Farm are littered with holes just large enough for little brown furry heads to pop up, sniff around and possibly lay out for some sun. And with plenty of things to see around the farm, such as the community gardens and historical farm house, the prairie dogs likely won’t get offended if you don’t spend the whole day watching them. Runner up: Dramatic Prairie Dog on www.youtube.com. Who knew that what many Coloradoans think of as a pest could become a global phenomenon simply by spreading like a virus from MySpace page to MySpace page? Readers’ choice PLAINS CONSERVATION CENTER 21901 E. HAMPDEN AVE. 303-693-3621

Best High-School Male Athlete

Critics’ and readers’ choice SMOKY HILL LIBRARY 5430 S. BISCAY CIRCLE 303-693-7449 WWW.ARAPAHOELIBRARIES.ORG

Critics’ choice JEREMY RANKIN TRACK & FIELD, OVERLAND

If the massive collection of books, CDs, DVDs, videos and other media you’ll ﬁnd at Smoky Hill Library aren’t enough for you, this location also features WiFi access for all your online research needs. As important as it is to get kids to read, the children’s area is unmatched in the city, sporting a treehouse, patio and craft area. It’s great to relax at home with a

There have been a good number of Aurora prep athletes who have gone on to make names for themselves, but few have done it as quickly as Overland sprinter Rankin. As a precocious freshman, Rankin placed in the top three in two individual events at the Class 5A track meet, foreshadowing good things to come. With increased maturity and strength and more work with coach Bill

sor’s track record since he took over the Smoky Hill High School boys soccer program in 2004. Going into the 2007 season in the fall, Winsor’s working on a streak in which he’s guided his alma mater to the Class 5A state championship game in all three of his seasons, despite losing some major contributors to graduation each year. He has state championship victories in 2004 and 2006 to show for it, with the Buffaloes falling to Fort Collins in overtime in the 2005 title game. Winsor’s knowledge of the game and strategy is top notch, but he exudes conﬁdence and is able to get the most out of his players.

Critics’ choice CHRIS REID IN ‘CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF’ AURORA FOX THEATER Courtney Oakes/The Aurora Sentinel

Annie Perrizzolo, four-sport star at Smoky Hill High School, was named critics’ choice for Best High School Female Athlete.

Best High-School Female Athlete Critics’ choice ANNIE PERIZZOLO FIELD HOCKEY/SWIMMING/LACROSSE/ TRACK & FIELD, SMOKY HILL The quintessential female prep athlete in Aurora went to Smoky Hill High School, as Perizzolo played four sports during her senior year and made a big impact in each. In the fall, Perizzolo played at an all-state level in ﬁeld hockey, helping lead the Buffaloes to the No. 1 seed in the state playoffs, though they fell short of the state title. She played lacrosse and added quality depth to the Smoky Hill track team in the spring. Perizzolo was good in land sports, but she was elite when she got into the swimming pool. She was voted winner of the Hoyt Brauner award, given annually to the top senior swimmer in the state, and nearly won a Class 5A state championship in her specialty, the 100-yard breaststroke. She earned a scholarship to swim at highly-regarded Claremont McKenna College in California. Readers’ choice MINDY NEILSON AND ANNIE PERIZZOLO (TIE)

Best High School Coach Critics’ choice DANNY WINSOR BOYS SOCCER, SMOKY HILL

Reid proved himself to be one of Aurora’s top actors this past year in his portrayal of Brick in the Aurora Fox’s production ‘Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.’ Charles Packard, director at the Aurora Fox, said Reid picks and chooses his roles carefully, adding he has a natural and conﬁdent style of acting. “He is really kind of (a) unique actor that is completely willing and able to really get fully inside the skin of the character,” he said. “He understands and fully participates in the emotional life of that character.” Unfortunately Reid is not cast in any upcoming Aurora Fox shows, but Packard says he is sure another opportunity will come up soon. Readers’ choice BRANDON BILL AND CONNOR BOHL (TIE)

Best Actress Critics’ choice AMANDA ZARR She’s been away for awhile, but Aurora-bred actress Amanda Zarr earned a well-deserved nod from the Aurora Sentinel after her appearance in fellow Overland-graduate David May’s short ﬁlm “Itsy Bitsy” that earned high marks at several festivals. Currently, Zarr is studying toward a Master’s of Fine Arts degree and will be appearing in a Southern California production of “Romeo & Juliet” in late August. Readers’ choice CLARISSA HOPE STRANSKE AND CARLA ABLES (TIE)

Aurora is ﬁlled with exceptional prep coaches in virtually every sport, but none can match Win-

��

Voted Readers’ and Critics’ Choice 2007

“Best American Cuisine”

Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

its kind in Colorado. With a giant maze, free balloons from the Aurora Sentinel, a moonwalk and other activities, the twoday event in late July has become one of the most anticipated city events. And the best part? It’s free.

Best News Story Critics’ choice GOOD SAMARITANS PULL CAR OFF AURORA WOMAN MAY 14, 2007

Courtney Oakes/The Aurora Sentinel

Critics’ choice for Best High School Coach Danny Winsor, head coach of Smoky Hill High School’s boys soccer program, is surrounded by his team in this file photo. Winsor led his team to the class 5A state championship in 2006.

Best Theatrical Performance Critics’ and readers’ choice ‘CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF’ AURORA FOX THEATER 9900 E. COLFAX AVE. 303-739-1970 WWW.AURORAFOX.ORG The Aurora Fox Theater has been a pinnacle of culture for Aurora for quite awhile, bringing quality performances of many kinds to the city. The best of the bunch in the last year was the well-received “Cat On A Hot Tin Roof,” a Pulitzer Prize-winning play written by Tennessee Williams, that ended its run at the theater in May. The show, directed by Brenda Cook

and produced by Charles Packard, detailed an evening in the lives of a family in a plantation in the deep South. Rebecca Gibel played Maggie in the production, with Chris Reid taking the role of Brick and Jack Casperson appearing as Big Daddy.

a row. This linear formation is a sight to behold and the trees provide shade for a lazy lounge during lunch.

Best Tree in Aurora

Best Annual Event

Readers’ choice HAVANA STREET AND PARKER ROAD In the northeast corner of Parker Road and Havana Street, there’s a row of trees alongside the business park that are uniformly spaced apart from one another in

Readers’ choice LONE TREE AT THE PLAINS CONSERVATION CENTER

Critics’ and readers’ choice KIDSPREE BICENTENNIAL PARK 13655 E. ALAMEDA AVE. WWW.AURORAGOV.COM/KIDSPREE Now in it’s 12th year, Aurora’s KidSpree festival is the largest of

Acts of heroism occur often in Aurora, but a big one on May 14 distinguished itself as the top news story of the year in the city. Arleen Meyer’s Mercury Cougar ﬂipped on a cold, rainy night on East Iliff avenue near Sedalia Circle, trapping Meyer underneath. Heath and Kyle Main of Commerce City were among a number of people who came to her aid. The brothers used their truck with a tow apparatus to pull the car off Meyer, who was quickly rushed to the hospital. The Mains left the scene without disclosing their identities, but the “angels” — as Meyer’s husband Duane termed them — were later found and given “Outstanding Citizen Lifesaving Awards.” Readers’ choice POLICE FUNERAL

Best Thing for Free Critics’ choice FLICKS ON THE ’FAX

| Page 23

FLETCHER PLAZA 9898 E. COLFAX AVE. 303-326-8386 WWW.AURORAGOV.ORG/AURORAGOV/ RESIDENTS/SPECIAL_EVENTS/ FLICKSONTHEFAX For seven Saturdays during the summer, Flicks on the ’FAX offers a night of fun for the entire family. Bring some lawn chairs, enjoy some trivia games and crafts before watching a movie on a large projection screen. Readers’ choice THE AURORA SENTINEL WWW.AURORASENTINEL.COM

Best Place to Read the Aurora Sentinel Critics’ choice THE LIGHT RAIL WWW.RTD-DENVER.COM With Aurora’s first light-rail stop finally completed, we here at the Sentinel have discovered that the papers in the boxes at Nine Mile seem to disappear rather quickly. So as you take off from Aurora for work in the morning, be sure and pick up a copy of the Sentinel and share it with your co-workers in whatever metro-area city your final stop is in and show them what they are missing. Readers’ choice KATHERINE’S FRENCH BAKERY 2832 S. HAVANA ST. 303-695-5000 WWW.KATHERINES.ORG

�tart �ere

Page 24 | Aurora Sentinel | Hot Stuff 2007

�inis� ��ere ��

��