2023 Best of the Springs

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Two original locations in Colorado Springs and one new location in Pueblo West starting June, 2023.

Named Top 3 Best College

by Colorado Springs Gazette readers

CCU features a dedicated military enrollment team to support the needs of active and veteran military students.

wenty-nine years ago, in 1994, “The Best of the Springs,” an annual celebration of the community where we live, work and play — the dynamic, diverse and delightful Colorado Springs! — made its debut. For nearly three decades, we have asked readers to share their favorite things in six categories: Arts & Entertainment, Food & Drink, City Life, Family & Health, Shopping and Services & Professionals.

Th is year, tens of thousands of Gazette readers voiced their opinions, providing hundreds of thousands of votes! Their top picks are compiled in this informative and entertaining resource filled with valuable information and insights for natives and newcomers alike. This veritable “who’s who” and “what’s what” in the Pikes Peak region delivers the area’s best community service providers, designers, entrepreneurs, innovators, retailers and small business owners across a range of industries, as determined by your friends and neighbors.

Turn the pages and meet the local leaders of industry and learn about their businesses. Their accomplishments are inspiring and deserving of our community’s support.

The “Best of the Springs” is your guide to the best products, services and experiences. Use it and enjoy; I know I will!

eople who live in Colorado Springs tend to speak of the city in glowing terms. Seth Lockard does the same with a paintbrush. Lockard, whose “A Portrait of Colorado Springs” adorns the cover of this year’s Best of the Springs, called on his passion for the place that he has called home since moving here as a young teen in 1984.

Lockard talked through a number of concepts that he felt best represented Colorado Springs with The Gazette’s Amber Borata. From that conversation, he created thumbnail images that he then expanded into the full-scale illustrations that appear throughout the magazine.

W hen he’s not working as a freelance illustrator, Lockard teaches painting and drawing at Pikes Peak State College, molding future artists and illustrators. It’s the perfect career for someone who, as he says, is awestruck living where Pikes Peak is “right outside my door.”

View his work at sethalockard.com.

THE GAZETTE LEADERSHIP TEAM

PUBLISHER

Chris Reen

PRESIDENT & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Rich Williams

EXECUTIVE EDITOR & VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTENT

Vince Bzdek

EDITOR

John Boogert

VICE PRESIDENT OF DIGITAL

Dani Newman

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

Jim Broyles

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE

Nicola Sapp

VICE PRESIDENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES

Michelle Aramayo

BEST OF THE SPRINGS TEAM

SECTION EDITOR

Ted Rayburn

ART DIRECTION

Amber Borata

Gina Pietramale

WRITERS

Teresa Farney

Kelly Hayes

O’Dell Isaac

Jennifer Mulson

Linda Navarro

Brooke Nevins

Annika Schmidt

Abbey Soukup

Nick Sullivan

Jessica Van Dyne

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jerilee Bennett

Christian Murdock

Parker Seibold

Cody Van Hooser

MARKETING

PROMOTIONS MANAGER

Rudy Vasquez

MARKETING COORDINATOR

Giuliana D’Agostino

ADVERTISING

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

Jim Broyles

Jim.Broyles@gazette.com, 719-476-1645

DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING OPERATIONS

Karen Hogan

Karen.Hogan@gazette.com, 719-636-0390

DIRECTOR OF LOCAL ADVERTISING

Traci Conrad

Traci.Conrad@gazette.com, 719-476-1628

SALES ASSOCIATES

Sandy Arizmendis

Lorre Cosgrove

Lori Curry

Nikki Dirks

Tammy Fogall

Ken Lepik

Tom McClung

Stefani Rackley

Yvonne Ramos

Sue Williams

Haley Zinnel

SUPPORT STAFF

Nina Glaser

Reagan Head

Susanne Lucking

Alexis Sands

Isaiah Serrano

Tara Sisbach

Michelle Thomsen

hen someone complains there’s nothing to do on a Tuesday night, you can point them to Best of the Springs, where you’ll find the tops in artists, musicians, performers, comedians, photographers, galleries, concert venues, festivals, casinos and more.

The Pikes Peak region is teeming with talented folks, whether they’re making a grand entrance from stage right, nailing a pas de deux, belting a show tune, or making you laugh during a weather cast.

And voters have declared their favorites — the people, places, events and organizations who make life a whole lot sweeter with their creativity, passion and knowledge. What would life be like if we didn’t have the arts? Dark drudgery, that’s what.

A three-tiered display of locally made art inside Bronze Winner, Gallery 113. — The Gazette, Cody Van Hooser

ACTOR

GOLD: CARTER BLACK

The young thespian has bedazzled audiences. “One of the most talented actors I have seen,” said a voter. “He has potential to make it big.”

SILVER: JOSIAH ALAFAT

BRONZE: ETHAN BERGERON

ACTRESS

GOLD: SOPHIA PACKIAM

This young songbird is wowing audiences with her talent. “Having watched this young lady grow up on the local community theater stage and on her church worship team, she has an amazing voice and is an impeccable actress,” said one voter.

SILVER: OLIVIA NEWMAN

BRONZE: MADISON FALKENSTINE

ART CLASS

GOLD: PAINTING WITH A TWIST Multiple locations, paintingwithatwist.com

After a long day it’s nice to have someone guide you

step-by-step through painting a piece of art. People love it as a date night or a way to spend time with friends. “Have many wonderful memories there with my daughters and some pretty good paintings to constantly remind us,” said a voter.

SILVER: BEMIS SCHOOL OF ART AT THE COLORADO SPRINGS

FINE ARTS CENTER AT COLORADO COLLEGE

BRONZE: COTTONWOOD CENTER FOR THE ARTS

ARTIST

GOLD: AUDREY GRAY audreygray.net

Every time Gray takes a road trip she brings a trowel and bags to collect dirt from road cuts and hillsides across the Southwest and coal from the Four Corners area. The former produces reds, pinks, ochres and greens; the latter becomes a deep black. She uses the materials to paint landscapes of the Pikes Peak region. “Beautiful work using materials direct from nature that have a soothing natural glow when hung on the wall,” a voter said.

SILVER: JOY ELDER

BRONZE: DAVID SIMPICH

“Mount Princeton,” made of earth from Colorado, Arizona and Utah, by best artist winner Audrey Gray. Gray serves on the boards of the Pikes Peak Arts Council, the Manitou Springs Arts Council and the Manitou Springs Creative District. — Courtesy photo.

CASINO

GOLD: WILDWOOD CASINO

119 Carbonate St., Cripple Creek, 719-244-9700, wildwoodcasino.net

Gamblers love trying their luck at the highest casino in the world — 9,593 feet above sea level. Loose slots and good vibes win every time. “Nice atmosphere and frequent wins happen here,” said a voter.

SILVER: BRONCO BILLY’S CASINO

BRONZE: THE BRASS ASS CASINO

COLORADO SPRINGS SPORTS MASCOT

GOLD: FALCON, AIR FORCE ACADEMY

Cadets have shown and flown falcons to crowds of fans since 1956. They train and handle their beloved birds and even get them to fly low over the heads of spectators. “Got to love the home team mascot — full of energy and will put a smile on your face every time,” said a voter.

SILVER: TOASTY, ROCKY MOUNTAIN VIBES

BRONZE: ZIGGY, COLORADO SPRINGS

SWITCHBACKS FOOTBALL CLUB

COMMERCIAL GALLERY

GOLD: HUNTER-WOLFF GALLERY 2510 W. Colorado Ave., 719-520-9494, hunterwolffgallery.com

Owner and founder Sharon Wolff created the gallery to offer a diverse collection of museum-quality fine art for her customers. It worked. People love the selection, price range and unpretentious atmosphere. “I always find one-of-a-kind items here. The staff is helpful and always willing to contact the artist for me to get additional art work. ” said a voter.

SILVER: ACADEMY ART & FRAME COMPANY

BRONZE: KREUSER GALLERY

DANCE CLUB

GOLD: WHISKEY BARON DANCE HALL & SALOON 5781 N. Academy Blvd., 719-465-3806, thewhiskeybarondancehallandsaloon.com

Go here when you want to live and dance the cowboy life. Check out the twice-weekly line dancing lessons and country music concerts. “This is definitely the best place in the springs for country dancing.” said a voter.

SILVER: COWBOYS

BRONZE: BLONDIE’S ULTRA LOUNGE

A tourist from Kansas looks pretty happy after winning $100,166 playing Buffalo Blackjack at the Wildwood Casino in Cripple Creek. — Courtesy photo.

DANCE STUDIO FOR ADULTS

GOLD: TURNING POINTE DANCE

5540 Library Lane, 719-445-9497, turningpointeschoolofdance.com

This faith-based dance studio offers a variety of styles, including ballet, musical theater, tap and hip hop. People come for the welcoming community and stay for the knowledgeable teachers. “Amazing way to learn one of the best art forms and feel alive,” said a voter.

SILVER: J&J HIP HOP DANCE AND PERFORMING ARTS COMPANY

BRONZE (TIE): COLORADO BALLET SOCIETY, KEMPER DANCE ACADEMY

DANCE STUDIO FOR KIDS

GOLD: TURNING POINTE DANCE 5540 Library Lane, 719-445-9497, turningpointeschoolofdance.com

The faith-based studio not only trains kids as young as 2 in many styles of dance, it also helps them learn valuable life skills like confidence and how to be respectful. “From baby ballet classes to adult dance classes these teachers always serve and love at 100%,” said a voter.

SILVER: COLORADO BALLET SOCIETY

BRONZE: J&J HIP HOP DANCE AND PERFORMING ARTS COMPANY

DOWNTOWN EVENT

GOLD: FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS PARADE

On the first Saturdays in December many holiday lovers bundle up, fill their thermoses with hot chocolate, and make their way downtown for the annual parade on Tejon Street. “Great light parade. Fun for the family and definitely a kids’ winter wonderland,” said a voter.

SILVER: FOOD TRUCK TUESDAYS AT COLORADO SPRINGS PIONEERS MUSEUM

BRONZE: FIRST FRIDAY

FINE ARTS PHOTOGRAPHER

GOLD: ZACH VOGEL PHOTOGRAPHY zachvogelphotography.com

Best Radio Personality

Thank you for voting Johnny, Caraigh & The Sports Guy 4 years in a row!

Real Country Variety

LEGENDS • CLASSICS • 80 s, 90 s & TODAY • RED DIRT COUNTRY Thank you

This young photographer taught himself how to take pretty pictures by watching YouTube videos. He started in 2018 with wildlife, arthropods and arachnids, and moved into landscapes. “He has captured some of the most breathtaking scenic moments in and around Colorado Springs we’ve ever seen,” said a voter.

SILVER: MANDY PENN PHOTOGRAPHY

BRONZE: RAFAEL CALDERON PHOTOGRAPHY

GALLERY

GOLD: HUNTER-WOLFF GALLERY 2510 W. Colorado Ave., 719-520-9494, hunterwolffgallery.com

Art lovers head here for a variety of works and price ranges by a mix of artists. “Whenever I’m in Old Colorado City, my family and I always make sure to stop by and see the stunning and eclectic collection of paintings, sculpture, vessels, jewelry, pottery and functional art,” said a voter.

SILVER: KREUSER GALLERY

BRONZE: GALLERY 113

A Turning Pointe School of Dance member helps a young dancer practice ballet during a class at the studio. — Courtesy photo.

IMPROV GROUP

GOLD: OXYMORONS

719-428-5404, oxymoronscomedy.com

This five-person troupe is a family-friendly, Christfollowing group that does improv games like those featured on the classic TV show “Whose Line is it Anyway?” “I love how clean their shows are. Proof you don’t need a filthy mouth to be funny,” said a voter.

SILVER: STICK HORSES IN PANTS

BRONZE: THE RIP

KARAOKE BAR

GOLD: THUNDER AND BUTTONS II

2415 W. Colorado Ave., 719-447-9888, thunderandbuttons.com

What do you do when your version of Prince’s “Purple Rain” needs to be shared outside of your shower or car? You bop on over to karaoke. Folks love it at this longtime Old Colorado City establishment where the mic stays hot Fridays and Saturdays for all the shower singers.

SILVER: DUBLIN HOUSE

BRONZE: LA BURLA BEE

A member of the Colorado Springs Flow Art Community hoops her way down Tejon Street as part of the Festival of Lights parade in downtown Colorado Springs — Photo by Parker Seibold.

A balloon dips in Prospect Lake while photographers snap away with cameras and phones at the Labor Day Lift Off. — Photo by Jerilee Bennett.

LOCAL BAND

GOLD: SOFAKILLERS facebook.com/sofakillers

If you want to sing and dance along to tunes you love, these are the guys to see. They play songs from most genres and decades and put on a good show to boot. “Wonderful rapport with audience. Great variety of songs. The band nails the sound of every cover song they play,” one voter said.

SILVER: WIREWOOD STATION

BRONZE: THE JASON WULF BAND

LOCAL FESTIVAL

GOLD: COLORADO SPRINGS LABOR DAY LIFT OFF 719-219-3333, coloradospringslabordayliftoff.com

Voters say this early morning event is worth waking up for. Watching the balloons take flight over Prospect Lake is an annual family tradition for many, as is returning in the evening for the Balloon Glow, when the grounded balloons are gorgeously lit up. “Beautiful from almost anywhere in the city,” said a voter. “Such a visual lift up for the soul,” said another.

SILVER: TERRITORY DAYS

BRONZE: BRIARFEST

WONDERFULL

Living life to its fullest includes experiencing Colorado Springs’ vibrant performing arts scene. Celebrating our 97th year, the Colorado Springs Philharmonic is the home of captivating performances and deep moments of connection. From essential Masterworks to Pops entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Come see (and hear) it for yourself and allow us to fill your heart to the brim.

Sofakillers perform rock, pop, funk, disco, country and hip hop hits. — Courtesy photo.

LOCAL MUSICIAN

GOLD: MICHELLE EDWARDS wirewood-station.com

The classically-trained fiddle player moved from Nashville to Monument more than a decade ago and founded the acoustic Americana band WireWood Station in 2012. “Isn’t she fantastic? Expert fiddle player and always with a smile,” said a voter.

SILVER: TIM GLENN

BRONZE: RYAN FLORES

MOVIE THEATER

GOLD: ROADHOUSE CINEMAS

3030 N. Nevada Ave., 719-627-8586, roadhousecinemas.com

Used to be you’d make two stops when you went out for dinner and a movie. At this theater you’ve got it all — dinner delivered to your seat, a flick and heated, reclining seats. Plus, you love the affordable tickets and special discount days. “You can go elsewhere to get stale popcorn and a movie, or go to RoadHouse and get a decent meal and a movie for the same price,” said a voter.

SILVER: CINEMARK CAREFREE CIRCLE AND IMAX

BRONZE: KIMBALL’S PEAK THREE THEATER

MUSEUM

GOLD: U.S. OLYMPIC & PARALYMPIC MUSEUM

200 S. Sierra Madre St., 719-497-1234, usopm.org

Residents and tourists are big fans of the interactive displays and great stories about amazing athletes housed in a beautiful building. Of particular note are the collections of torches and medals. “Step in to a fun history lesson. This amazing building will take you through an Olympic journey. You will get to try your skills at what some of the Olympians do,” a voter said.

SILVER: COLORADO SPRINGS PIONEERS MUSEUM

BRONZE: NATIONAL MUSEUM OF WORLD WAR II AVIATION

MUSIC VENUE

GOLD: BOOT BARN HALL AT BOURBON BROTHERS

13071 Bass Pro Drive, 1-888-718-4253, bootbarnhall.com

This spot offers a panoply of concerts, including country music stars, dueling pianos, tribute bands and local and regional bands. Patrons love the view from the patio and say there doesn’t seem to be a bad seat in the house. “I love that I can go see a good, quality show/concert right here in Colorado Springs and it doesn’t cost too much,” said a voter.

SILVER: PIKES PEAK CENTER

BRONZE: STARGAZERS THEATRE & EVENT CENTER

Visitors of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum walk through the lab exhibit that demonstrates how science and technology play a role in maximizing an athlete’s performance. — Photo by Jerilee Bennett.

MUSICAL

GOLD: “BEAUTY AND THE BEAST”

BY STARZ THEATER COMPANY

5540 Library Lane, 719-445-9497, starztheater.org

These kids know there’s no business like show business. Audiences praised their production of the Tony Award-winning musical, extolling the choreography, costumes and professionalism. “The best live production of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ I’ve seen, rivaling Broadway, from the set, to the costumes, with fun choreography and a show-stealing Gaston,” said a voter.

SILVER: “MATILDA THE MUSICAL”

BY ELEVATE PRODUCTIONS

BRONZE: “SEUSSICAL JR.” BY ACADEMY OF COMMUNITY THEATRE (ACT II)

NONPROFIT ARTS GROUP

GOLD: COLORADO SPRINGS YOUTH SYMPHONY 3113 Primrose Drive, 719-633-3901, csysa.com

Who knows, the next Yo-Yo Ma could be a 12-year-old playing with this nonprofit right now. The organization provides its 400 students with opportunities to grow musically and also develop leadership skills within its eight groups and Mozart String Project for beginners. “World class. Winner of prestigious awards Training ground for future musicians. Led by Maestro Gary Nicolson. Simply the best,” said one voter.

SILVER: COLORADO SPRINGS PHILHARMONIC BRONZE: ACADEMY OF CHILDREN’S THEATRE (ACT)/ACADEMY OF COMMUNITY THEATRE (ACT II)

Nicole Halverson reacts during a game of pool at Phantom Canyon Brewing Company. — The Gazette file.

PLACE TO PLAY POOL

GOLD: PHANTOM CANYON BREWING CO.

2 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 719-635-2800, phantomcanyon.com

What pairs well with a good game of pool? An excellent beer selection, a pretty mountain view and tasty vittles. “Staff is so kind and always ready with a recommendation,” said a voter.

SILVER: COWBOYS

BRONZE: ANTIQUES POOL HALL

PLAY

GOLD: “TUCK EVERLASTING” BY ACADEMY OF COMMUNITY THEATRE (ACT II)

481 Windchime Place, 719-331-2434, actcolorado.net

The nonprofit theater brought dreams to reality for performers age 11 and older who got a chance to indulge their inner Broadway star. And audiences got a few memorable hours at the theater. “Such a gorgeous show, the sets and songs as well as the dances were entirely unique and beautiful. ACT did a wonderful job with this production,” said a voter.

SILVER: “ONE LAST THING TO SAY”

BY GHOSTLIGHT ENSEMBLE

BRONZE: “THE REVOLUTIONISTS”

BY SPRINGS ENSEMBLE THEATRE

RADIO PERSONALITY

GOLD: JOHNNY, CARAIGH AND GUY, MOUNTAIN COUNTRY

mymountaincountry.com

In-between the country tunes, the Monday through Friday DJs are all about keeping it local, with guests who talk about events and topics important to the Pikes Peak region. And tune in at 7:20 a.m. for the crew’s Impossible Question. “Johnny and Caraigh keep it entertaining and light-hearted. It’s a great way to start your day,” a voter said.

SILVER: ANDREW ROGERS, KRDO NEWSRADIO

BRONZE: WOODY POWERS AND BOBBY ADAN, 92.9 PEAK FM

RADIO STATION

GOLD: MOUNTAIN COUNTRY

mymountaincountry.com

Y’all like your country in these parts, and can appreciate this locally-owned station that plays the legends, Red Dirt and the current hits, all on the dial at 107.3 FM. “They don’t stick with the same old, same old music,” said a voter.

SILVER: 92.9 PEAK FM

BRONZE: X1039

THEATER COMPANY

GOLD: STARZ THEATER COMPANY

5540 Library Lane, starztheater.org

The Christian-based company offers musical theater production experience to ages 9 through high school. They do two big musicals every year and offer regular intensives on performance and audition techniques, as well as yearround training in dance, acting and voice. “Starz is the best resource for kids of all ages interested in learning and participating in theatrical performance,” said a voter.

SILVER: ACADEMY OF CHILDREN’S THEATRE (ACT) AND ACADEMY OF COMMUNITY THEATRE (ACT II)

BRONZE: SPRINGS ENSEMBLE THEATRE

EVENING NEWS ANCHOR

GOLD: HEATHER SKOLD, KRDO krdo.com

The three-time regional Edward R. Murrow and threetime Emmy award-winning journalist has delivered the news to the Pikes Peak region since 2007 at KRDO. Viewers tune in for her professionalism, sincerity and compassion. “She is one of the few long-timers left in the news casts. I hope she will be there for a lot longer,” said a voter.

SILVER: ROB QUIRK, KOAA

BRONZE: DIANNE DERBY, KOAA

TV SPORTS PERSONALITY

GOLD: ROB NAMNOUN, KRDO krdo.com

The award-winning sports director has been a KRDO staple for almost 25 years. Viewers call him must -watch TV due to his knowledgeable and enthusiastic sports casts. “Hilarious, entertaining and a joy to watch. I love sports because of Rob,” said a voter.

SILVER: JESSICA MENDOZA, KKTV

BRONZE: BRADEY KING, KOAA

TV WEATHER ANCHOR

GOLD: MATT MEISTER, FOX21 fox21news.com

The award-winning meteorologist not only provides accurate weather reports, but he’s practically a stand-up comedian doubling as a science teacher, according to voters. “I have learned so much from him over the years of following his reports,” one voter said. “He’s not only a skilled meteorologist, but a personality. He’s more like rock star status,” another said.

SILVER: BRIAN BLEDSOE, KKTV

BRONZE: MIKE DANIELS, KOAA

Thank you Colorado Springs!

We

olorado Springs’ founders came west with a notion to start a life from the ground up, in a place of swirling mountain vistas and big-sky beauty. But it didn’t mean they would leave behind all the familiar amenities.

That explains why this city has its French bistros, its Victorian guest houses, parks and public gardens, sharing space with the rock climbing, ski slopes and rugged trails that could only be found here.

It must have been satisfying for those newcomers to know this community could have the gentler comforts, too. Today, we embrace it all, and wonder, “why go anywhere else?”

Kelley Likes, the vice president of philanthropy for Silver Winner, Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, receives a kiss from Vivianne while Sven watches. — The Gazette, Christian Murdock

Life’s sweetest moments

HAPPEN AT HOME

That’s why Challenger Homes is honored to be nominated again by our community for our dedication to building homes in the Colorado Springs market for over 23 years.

Challenger Homes is committed to Making Life Better. Visit one of our communities throughout Colorado Springs or find your new locale that’s steeped in history, awe-inspiring landscapes, and an abundance of activity at our newest community – Home Place Ranch in Monument, CO.

SCAN TO LEARN MORE and see our Colorado Springs communities

We’re honored to be nominated again by our community for:

Best HOME BUILDER

Best HOME DEVELOPER

Best PRODUCTION BUILDER

B&B

GOLD: OLD TOWN GUEST HOUSE

115 S. 26th St., 719-632-9194 oldtown-guesthouse.com

Travelers are so enthusiastic they say they will always stay at a B&B after their time at Old Town. So many kudos to the owners for their personal care at this multiple-year Best of.

SILVER: HOLDEN HOUSE 1902 BED & BREAKFAST

BATHROOM

GOLD: LA BAGUETTE FRENCH BISTRO

4440 N. Chestnut St., 719-599-0686 labaguettefrenchbistro.com

A French theme is popular at the bistro and in the roomy bathroom with its memories of France.

SILVER: ICONS

BRONZE: 1350 DISTILLING

BINGO HALL

GOLD: CAREFREE BINGO

3440 N. Carefree Circle N., 719-591-7835, carefreebingo.com

Voters say this is their favorite spot to fill those cards and meet their friends.

SILVER: BINGO WORLD

BRONZE: DAV 26

BOWLING ALLEY

GOLD: THE SUMMIT INTERQUEST

1180 Interquest Parkway, 719-278-3861 playatthesummit.com/interquest

So many entertainment things to do in one spot. A colorful spot for bowling and leagues, laser tag for fans and a full arcade. And now try high tech with SPARK, bowling lanes with AI (augmented reality).

SILVER: HARMONY BOWL

BRONZE: PEAK BOWL

CITY PARK

GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS

1805 N. 30th St., 719-634-6666, gardenofgods.com

This amazing park filled with so much natural beauty belongs to everyone. It can be found everywhere on bucket lists and don’t-miss places to visit. For area residents it’s the peaceful spot with towering red rocks and breathtaking views of Pikes Peak. Hike and bike here, always the place to bring visitors, have a picnic, stop to take a deep breath during a workday, see the wildlife and even get married. Voters had a lot to say!

SILVER: FOX RUN REGIONAL PARK

BRONZE: JOHN VENEZIA COMMUNITY PARK

Foothills Trail in front of Garden of the Gods. — The Gazette file.

CLIMBING WALL

GOLD: CITYROCK

21 N. Nevada Ave., 719-634-9099, climbcityrock.com

CityRock has it all and has for years, say the climbing and bouldering fans. After scaling the indoor heights, there’s even an eatery. The kiddos can get an early start, with classes starting at age 3. Itty bitty ones can visit The Aerie, their own unique climbing play area. “Come climb, everyone” is the invitation from voters.

SILVER: GRIPSTONE CLIMBING & FITNESS

BRONZE: SPRINGS CLIMBING CENTER

COLORADO SKI AREA

GOLD: BRECKENRIDGE breckenridge.com

It’s beautiful Breck with some of the best ski-season celebration events in the state to go along with sensational skiing and snowboarding.

SILVER: MONARCH MOUNTAIN

BRONZE: COPPER MOUNTAIN

DOG PARK

GOLD: BEAR CREEK DOG PARK 21st and Rio Grande streets, 719-520-7529 communityservices.elpasoco.com

The parking lot is always packed as the dogs recognize their spot to run and play and jump in the creek. There’s a big-dog area and a small-dog area, too. Bring your hiking shoes and your dog-poop bags and join the fun, say voters.

SILVER: FOX RUN DOG PARK

BRONZE: FOUNTAIN CREEK REGIONAL PARK

FITNESS CLASSES

GOLD: THE YMCA

Multiple locations, all areas, ppymca.org

Find your location and there are classes of all types to choose from.

SILVER: ORANGETHEORY FINESS

BRONZE: TRAIN WITH JOE

FUN WAY TO SUPPORT CHARITY

GOLD: PAWTOBERFEST — HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION

610 Abbot Lane, 719-473-1741, hsppr.org

Happy humans, happy pups. Hooray for the annual combination of beer garden and dog walk activities. “One of the best fundraisers ever,” say enthusiastic dog lovers.

SILVER: CRAFT FOR A CAUSE AT RED LEG BREWING

BRONZE: THE Y 5K RACE SERIES

GOLF COURSE

GOLD: PATTY JEWETT GOLF COURSE 900 E. Espanola St., 719-385-5967 coloradosprings.gov

Golfers have had a love affair with Patty Jewett Golf Course dating from the city’s earliest days in the late 1800s and then, since 1919, as city owned property. They talk about driving beneath a canopy of 100-year-old trees up to the club house and looking beyond to the west from the golf courses, one 18 holes, another one nine, to the mountain scape beyond. Voters enthuse about the excellent bar and grill, with special features like popular weekend brunches, summer concerts and a highly popular prime rib dinner night.

SILVER: EISENHOWER GOLF COURSE , AIR FORCE ACADEMY

BRONZE: CHEROKEE RIDGE GOLF COURSE

GYM/HEALTH CLUB

GOLD: THE YMCA

Multiple locations, all areas, ppymca.org

Its convenient locations and strong schedules are popular with voters of all ages.

SILVER: ORANGETHEORY FITNESS

BRONZE: TRAIN WITH JOE

Patrons play pikcleball at the YMCA at First & Main. —

Photo by Cody Van Hooser.

HOTEL

GOLD: THE BROADMOOR

1 Lake Ave., 844-602-3343, broadmoor.com

Winning the top five-star awards is a way of life for The Broadmoor. Most recently, the resort received five stars in the Forbes Travel Guide’s 2023 Star Awards for luxury hotels. This was the 63rd consecutive year for the designation, leading all of the world’s hotels. Just one of many five-star designations. Visitors can’t say enough wonderful things about the elegant hotel, the staff and they love its pet-friendly ways.

SILVER: BUFFALO LODGE BICYCLE RESORT

BRONZE: KINSHIP LANDING

IMPRESSIVE OUTING

GOLD: GLEN EYRIE CASTLE

3820 N. 30th St., 719-265-7050, gleneyrie.org

Those who spend time at city founder Gen. William Jackson Palmer’s castle wax poetic about the peace they find there, the history they learn, the gentle time spent watching eagles, hawks and bighorn sheep, and an opportunity to experience a special High Tea.

SILVER: GARDEN OF THE GODS VISITOR AND NATURE CENTER

BRONZE: PIKES PEAK COG RAILWAY

LUNCH TIME/AFTER WORK HIKE

GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS

1805 N. 30th St., 719-634-6666, gardenofgods.com

A perfect place, close by, for down time amid towering red-rock formations, said voters and regular visitors.

SILVER: PALMER PARK

BRONZE: UTE VALLEY PARK

MARTIAL ARTS

GOLD: TRAIN WITH JOE 4835 Barnes Road, 719-229-2639, trainwithjoe.com

Those who train with Joe Ramirez say this is why the top honors have been his since 2010.

SILVER: ACADEMY OF LIFE AND LEADERSHIP TAEKWONDO

BRONZE: CHAMPIONSHIP

MARTIAL ARTS, TRIBE

Come Indulge Yourself and Strike it Rich!

Calling all adventure seekers: Cripple Creek is known for its rich history, gold mines, casinos full of money making opportunities, fun attractions, rich history, and breathtaking views.

Plan your visit today and become rich in golden memories, historical knowledge, and maybe even inside your pockets. Start planning today at VisitCripple Creek.com

“Come and indulge yourself. You deserve a break!”

MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL

GOLD: NEW SANTA FE REGIONAL TRAIL

Along the abandoned railroad right of way, Palmer Lake to the Air Force Academy, 719-520-7529, communityservices.elpasoco.com

Fourteen comfortable, foothills miles. Trailheads at Palmer Lake and Third Street in Monument, also access at Highway 105 in Monument. For now the trailhead and North Gate parking lot are closed during construction of the Air Force Academy Visitors Center.

SILVER: UTE VALLEY PARK

BRONZE: CAPTAIN JACK’S TRAIL

NEIGHBORHOOD

GOLD: WOLF RANCH

Northeast off Research Parkway, wolf-ranch.com

A growing master-planned community, multiple builders. Elevation 6,500 feet. Residents say they appreciate that it’s family oriented with a Recreation Center, 6-acre park and Woof Ranch Dog Park.

SILVER: PATTY JEWETT

BRONZE: ROCKRIMMON

NEIGHBORHOOD PARK

GOLD: FOX RUN REGIONAL PARK

El Paso County in Black Forest, Northgate Road to Roller Coaster Road and Stella Drive, tinyurl.com/9tthz8a6

Pastoral setting in the ponderosa forest, with two lakes. Miles of hiking and, say voters, one of the favorites is the 4.5-mile Fox Run Loop Trail. Playgrounds, pavilions, playing fields, a climbing rock and picnic areas. An enthusiastic fan of the regional park said, “It is fantastic and will be even more awesome when the Nature Center is built.”

SILVER: BEAR CREEK REGIONAL PARK

BRONZE: UTE VALLEY PARK

NONPROFIT 501(C)(3)

GOLD: LIFE NETWORK

Colorado Springs Pregnancy Centers, 3700 Galley Road, 3925 Centennial Blvd., 97 Widefield Blvd.; Life Network Family Thrift Store, 5406 N. Academy Blvd., elifenetwork.com

Nonprofit mission: “to cultivate a community that values life through the love of Christ; alternatives to those facing unplanned pregnancies,” parenting education and services for fathers.

SILVER: HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION

BRONZE: CARE AND SHARE FOOD BANK

ORGANIZATION TO VOLUNTEER FOR

GOLD: CARE AND SHARE FOOD BANK 2605 Preamble Point, 719-528-1247, tinyurl.com/2ae5vefe

There are so many ways people of every age volunteer at Care and Share Food Bank to help ensure that everyone in Southern Colorado can have nutritious food. Each year more than 44,000 hours are donated to do whatever is necessary toward the nonprofit’s “hungerfree vision.” Volunteers are individuals, families, friends, co-workers, school groups, faith groups and more. To see the schedule for volunteers, go to tinyurl.com/2ae5vefe

SILVER: HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION

BRONZE: COS I LOVE YOU

PERSON WHO MAKES A DIFFERENCE

GOLD: BETH ALESSIO, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF SOUTHERN COLORADO

When she was honored in 2021 on her 20th anniversary leading the home away from home for families with hospitalized, critically ill children, her staff and board saluted Beth Alessio as “dynamic, articulate, gentle, compassionate, caring, principled, a good leader!” That adds up to her being “a keeper,” they said, and voters agreed again this year, saying those descriptive words will always continue to describe Beth. She was credited with leading the drive to build a new Ronald McDonald House within walking distance of the new Children’s Hospital in north Colorado Springs where it now serves 650 or more families annually. More are served in family rooms in two area hospitals. “Beth always makes a difference,” said an admirer.

SILVER: ARLENE PADILLA, OWNER, ARLENE’S BEANS

BRONZE: JAMES PROBY, MEN’S XCHANGE

Members of the American Heritage Girls volunteer at Care and Share Food Bank for Southern Colorado. — Photo by Jerilee Bennett.

PERSONAL TRAINER

GOLD: JOE RAMIREZ

4835 Barnes Road, 719-229-2639, trainwithjoe.com

His clients have voted Joe Ramirez the top trainer in Colorado Springs since 2010.

SILVER: OLIVIA BUKOWSKI

BRONZE: TINA GRONE

PHILANTHROPIC BUSINESS

GOLD: CAMBIO YOGA

3326 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Suites 100 & 200, 1604 E. Pikes Peak Ave., cambioyoga.com

Family owned and donation based yoga. Voters appreciate a very diverse schedule of classes available.

SILVER: EMERGE AQUAPONICS

BRONZE: EL POMAR FOUNDATION

PLACE TO DO PILATES

GOLD: CLUB PILATES

Multiple locations, clubpilates.com

Those participating in the Reformer Pilates classes voted their support of the instructors and “the ease of getting classes.” One said she is “truly enjoying my Pilates journey from beginner to advanced classes.”

SILVER: REVIBE PILATES AND BODYWORK

BRONZE: THE YMCA

PLACE TO DO YOGA

GOLD: CAMBIO YOGA

3326 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Suites 100 & 200, 1604 E. Pikes Peak Ave.; cambioyoga.com

Family owned and donation based yoga. Voters appreciate a very diverse schedule of classes available.

SILVER: HIPPIE SOUL YOGA

BRONZE: THE Y

PLACE TO GAZE AT PIKES PEAK

GOLD: MESA OVERLOOK

A tiny area to pull over and pause as everyone takes spectacular photos of Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods … and selfies.

3586–3604 Mesa Road

SILVER: GARDEN OF THE GODS ROAD

BRONZE: PALMER PARK

PLACE TO PROPOSE

GOLD: GARDEN OF THE GODS

1805 N. 30th St., 719-634-6666, gardenofgods.com

Voters filled ballot comments with personal memories of that special moment in their lives surrounded by natural beauty.

SILVER: THE BROADMOOR

BRONZE: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO

Voters appreciate a very diverse schedule of classes available at Cambio Yoga. — Photo by Jerilee Bennett

SWIMMING POOL

GOLD: THE YMCA

Multiple locations, all areas, ppymca.org

SILVER: VILLA SPORT AND SPA

BRONZE: GARDEN OF THE GODS CLUB AND SPA

TRAIL

GOLD: RED ROCK CANYON OPEN SPACE

3550 W. High St. at U.S. 24, 719-385-5950, coloradosprings.gov

More than 20 trails go through the popular open space and they’re so loved that major trail improvements, planting native vegetation and damage corrections are being made this spring and summer. Reclamation work on Red Rock Canyon Trail and Roundup Trail, much like what has already been completed on Greenlee Trail and Lion Trail. Red Rock just keeps getting better and better say the understanding hikers, walkers and cyclists.

SILVER: SEVEN BRIDGES TRAIL

BRONZE: UTE VALLEY PARK

VETERAN-OWNED BUSINESS

GOLD: DART WARS

5850 Championship View, 13280 Touchstone View, 719-301-7654, dartwars.com

The “Indoor Nerf Battle Arena” is really competitive and fun, raved youngsters and teens, especially the sports-loving boys. A big thumbs-up as a great birthday party spot, said voters.

SILVER: RED LEG BREWING CO.

BRONZE: JACK QUINN’S IRISH PUB AND RESTAURANT

Leslie McWilliams of Colorado Springs rides through the tall sunflowers in Red Rocks Canyon Open Space. — Photo by Christian Murdock

top me if you’ve heard this one, but Colorado Springs is rated as one of America’s best places to live.

The city turns up in the top 10 year after year, whether it’s U.S. News & World Report or Business Insider or HGTV.

There are a number of factors, but the plentiful array of family and health services is one of the most important. It takes a robust lineup of care providers to serve this community’s unique mix of age groups, income levels and diverse backgrounds.

Putting down roots, and planning your future, is easier in a town where health and well-being are so valued.

Elena Bautista Rios poses for a portrait outside of Gold Winner, Pikes Peak State College, Rampart campus. — The Gazette, Parker Seibold

Shelly Greene of Peaceful Points Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs is a repeat Best of the Springs winner. — Courtesy photo.

ACUPUNCTURIST

GOLD: PEACEFUL POINTS ACUPUNCTURE AND CHINESE HERBS 5265 N. Academy Blvd., 719-291-4006, peacefulpoints.com

Owner and acupuncturist Shelly Greene, a multiple Best of the Springs winner, offers a variety of treatments including cupping, herbology, electrical stimulation and cosmetic acupuncture. One voter raved, “Shelly helped heal some serious foot issues!”

SILVER: HEART TO HEART COUNSELING CENTER

BRONZE: EAST WINDS ACUPUNCTURE

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

GOLD: ACADEMY OF CHILDREN’S THEATRE (ACT) 481 Windchime Place, 719-331-2434, actcoloroado.net

The Academy of Children’s Theatre offers youngsters a myriad of outlets for self-expression. Voters called the theatre a “fantastic opportunity” and “excellent learning experience,” overseen by “great people.”

SILVER: J&J HIP HOP DANCE COMPANY

BRONZE: TURNING POINTE DANCE

ALLERGIST

GOLD: COLORADO ENT & ALLERGY

Multiple locations: 719-867-7800, coloradoent.com

Praised by Springs voters as “patient and understanding,” Colorado ENT and Allergy’s medical professionals offer a broad spectrum of quality ear, nose, throat, head and neck treatments. Voters used superlatives like, “Amazing!” and “The best!”

SILVER: ASPIRE ASTHMA AND ALLERGY

BRONZE: CHRISTOPHER WEBBER, M.D.

We’re part of a network of hospitals, urgent cares, physician practices and more. More importantly, we’re people. There are 21,000 of us, united by a vision for the future of health care. Together, we bring you the right care online, at home and in your neighborhood. And the best part is this movement is just beginning. Get ideas, get tools, get inspired at centura.org

AUDIOLOGY PRACTICE

GOLD: APEX AUDIOLOGY

1902 W. Colorado Ave., No. 110, 719-247-9000, apexaudiology.com

A practice with locations in Colorado Springs, Pueblo and Cañon City, Apex’s hearing aids and audiology treatments earned raves from satisfied patients. “Wonderful customer service, treats you like family,” one voter said.

SILVER: PEAK VIEW AUDIOLOGY

BRONZE: COLORADO SPRINGS EAR ASSOCIATES

CHIROPRACTOR

GOLD: THE SPINE AND SPORT CENTER

5962 Stetson Hills Blvd., 719-596-8700, spineandsportcenter.com

The recovery specialists offer state-of-the-art chiropractic, massage, and rehab services. “Let me tell you … Dr. Shane Conrad knows what he’s doing,” said one voter. “Best chiropractic care in the Springs,” said another.

SILVER: WOW FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC

BRONZE: TRUE NORTH CHIROPRACTIC

COLLEGE FOR ASSOCIATE DEGREE

GOLD: PIKES PEAK STATE COLLEGE

Main Campus: 100 W. Pikes Peak Ave., 719-520-2000, pikespeak.edu

The former Pikes Peak Community College has added a number of four-year degree programs to its affordable course catalog. According to one voter, the college “has really upped their game.” Another called PPSC a “real haven of learning for the military component of our community.”

SILVER: PIMA MEDICAL INSTITUTE — COLORADO SPRINGS

BRONZE: INTELLITEC COLLEGE-CORPORATE

COLLEGE FOR BACHELOR’S OR MASTER’S DEGREE

GOLD: UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO COLORADO SPRINGS

Main Campus: 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 719-255-8227, uccs.edu

The university offers a widely varied list of curricula through six colleges and schools. Voters praised UCCS as the “best college education for your money” and marveled at its “beautiful campus” and “caring staff.”

SILVER: COLORADO COLLEGE

BRONZE: COLORADO CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

Pikes Peak State College launched its new name in fall of 2022 to reflect the college’s expansion into four-year degrees. — Photo by Cody Van Hooser.

degree. — Photo by Christian Murdock.

One of the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo hippos entertains the crowds. — Photo by Jerilee Bennett.

CONTINUING EDUCATION

GOLD: UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO COLORADO SPRINGS

SILVER: PIKES PEAK STATE COLLEGE

BRONZE: CHARIS BIBLE COLLEGE

DAY TRIP

GOLD: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO

4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, 719-633-9925, cmzoo.org

Recently listed among the top five zoos in the U.S., Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a perennial favorite of Colorado Springs resident and a must-visit location for out-of-towners. Many residents consider it a “local gem,” and one voter is convinced it is the “top zoo in the nation.”

SILVER: GARDEN OF THE GODS

BRONZE: CAVE OF THE WINDS MOUNTAIN PARK

Hoosier hangs out on a snowy day at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. — Photo by Jerilee Bennett.

DAY CARE CENTER

GOLD: LITTLE SUNSHINE’S PLAYHOUSE AND PRESCHOOL OF COLORADO SPRINGS 1245 Tenderfoot Hill Road, 719-576-9789, littlesunshine.com

Lauded by many Springs parents as a “second home” to their little ones, Little Sunshine’s Playhouse is committed to developing a love of learning through play. “Hands down the best,” gushed one voter. “They always make sure my kids are comfortable and taken care of,” said another.

SILVER: HOPE MONTESSORI ACADEMY

BRONZE: LITTLE SPROUTS LEARNING CENTERCHAPEL HILLS

DENTAL PRACTICE

GOLD: SPRINGS DENTISTRY 6665 Delmonico Drive, Suite C, 719-599-5700, springsdentistry.com

A practice that takes pride in delivering quality oral care at affordable prices, Springs Dentistry is touted by one voter as an “excellent practice with great customer care and service.” The plaudits continue: “Staff and docs

are wonderful.” “The supporting assistants caring and competent.”

SILVER: COMFORT DENTAL

BRONZE: CROSSROADS DENTISTRY

DENTISTRY FOR KIDS

GOLD: SIMPLY KIDS DENTAL 1910 Vindicator Drive, 719-598-5437, simplykidsdental.com

“They take such good care of our children’s teeth!” said one voter of the children’s dental practice, whose website states that new patients are always welcome. “Good dentist for kids,” said another voter.

SILVER: KIDS ROCK PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

BRONZE: SMILE ORTHODONTICS & PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

GOLD: FREEDOM ELEMENTARY 5280 Butterfield Drive; 719-228-0800, d11.org/freedom The District 11 elementary school showcases its student achievement with displays like the Student Art Gallery and its Science and Engineering Hall. “Teachers

and staff are incredible,” said one admirer. “I cannot thank this school enough!” exclaimed a Freedom Elementary parent.

SILVER: TRAILBLAZER ELEMENTARY

BRONZE: ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLASSICAL ACADEMY

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL EDUCATOR

GOLD: CHRISTY HELTON, CHINOOK TRAIL ELEMENTARY

Best of the Springs voters praise Helton, a fourth-grade teacher at the District 20 elementary school, as an “above and beyond type” who is “so beloved by her students.”

SILVER: VIRGINIA STEWART, SCOTT ELEMENTARY

BRONZE: MICHELLE ZILVERBERG, FREEDOM ELEMENTARY

EYE CARE/OPTOMETRIST

GOLD: EYE ASSOCIATES OF COLORADO SPRINGS

2770 N. Union Blvd., 719-471-2020, eyeassoc.com

A fixture in Colorado Springs since 1974, Eye Associates treats a wide range of of optical conditions, including glaucoma and corneal abnormalities, according to its website. “They take great care of you,” a voter said. Among the superlatives: “Always the best,” “first class service” and “Great care for the eyes.”

SILVER: ROCKRIMMON VISION SOURCE

BRONZE: ABBA EYE CARE

Hope Springs Here

Dr. Laura Carson & Dr. LuAnne Sperando

Art in Simply Kids Dental office. — Courtesy photo

FAMILY FUN CENTER

GOLD: DART WARS

13280 Touchstone View, 719-301-7654, 5850 Championship View, 719-573-8022, dartwars.com

A veteran-owned, family-oriented play arena, Dart Wars recently expanded to a second location in north Colorado Springs. The attraction has consistently won Best of the Springs in multiple categories. Though voters laud it as “a fun, active place for a birthday party,” one voters asserted that it’s not just for kids: “We went here as a team building for my business and had a great time!”

SILVER: LOST ISLAND MINIATURE GOLF & ADVENTURE PARK

BRONZE: TOP GOLF

Cove Candell, 6, left, runs from his dad KJ Candell as they have fun playing with their Nerf guns for indoor Nerf wars at Dart Warzs. — The Gazette file.

FIELD TRIP

GOLD: DART WARS

SILVER: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO

BRONZE: SPACE FOUNDATION HEADQUARTERS AND DISCOVERY CENTER

HIGH SCHOOL

GOLD: AIR ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL

U.S. Air Force Academy, 719-234-2400, airacademy.asd20.org

Voters gushed about the District 20 high school, which is located on the Air Force Academy campus. “Best school in town,” “Symbol of excellence in public education,” and “Great education and environment” were just a few of the voter acclamations.

SILVER: PINE CREEK HIGH SCHOOL

BRONZE: CORONADO HIGH SCHOOL

HIGH SCHOOL COACH

GOLD: TODD MILLER, PINE CREEK

As Pine Creek’s head football coach, Miller has led the Eagles to multiple playoff appearances and three state championships. Voters praised Miller as a “Great Coach” who has “built a legacy” at the District 20 high school.

SILVER: GERALD FREEMAN, PALMER HIGH SCHOOL

BRONZE: SKYLAR JOHNSON, DOHERTY HIGH SCHOOL

HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATOR

GOLD: CRIS ROBSON, AIR ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL

Cris Robson has been with Air Academy High School for a decade, but her teaching experience spans

far longer. According to Principal Dan Olson, Robson has a passion and energy for her subjects and her students that separates her from others. She sponsors multiple clubs, teaches science, coordinates multitiered system of supports and is “adored by all,” from Ivy League-bound AP students to those in need of a little extra attention.

SILVER: ANGIE CHATMAN, PINE CREEK HIGH SCHOOL

BRONZE: SEAN DINEEN, CIVA

HOLISTIC PAIN MANAGEMENT

GOLD: HOPE PHYSICAL THERAPY & WELLNESS 4850 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 719-466-6800, hope4wellness.com

The physical therapy specialists boast a range of restorative treatments, including acupuncture, scar tissue release, cupping, and post-surgery rehab.

“They’re the best. Hands down,” said one voter. Another voter called their treatment “the most amazing experience.”

SILVER: TRUE NORTH CHIROPRACTIC

BRONZE: AXON HEALTH

HOME CARE COMPANY

GOLD: GENTLE SHEPHERD HOME CARE 1271 Kelly Johnson Blvd., 719-359-8371, gentleshepherdhomecare.com

The locally owned senior care company offers nutritional assistance, transportation, light housekeeping, pet care, and a host of other services.

“Wonderful staff and a great service,” said a voter. “Very caring staff,” said another.

SILVER: HUMAN TOUCH HOME CARE

BRONZE: AMADA SENIOR CARE

On behalf of The Spine and Sport Center I’d like to personally thank everyone who took the opportunity to vote for us. Your appreciation is a reflection of our gratitude to serve all the hard working people that call Colorado Springs their home!

– Dr. Shane Conrad D.C., Clinical Director

The Air Force hockey team joined the public for a skating session at Skate in the Park at Acacia Park. — Photo by Parker Seibold.

HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY

GOLD: WELL LIFE STUDIO

97 Garden of the Gods Road, 719-694-8782, welllifemedctr.com

The medical center offers high-quality hormone replacement services for patients whose levels have caused unwanted physical symptoms. Voters raved about the studio’s “excellent treatment” and “caring staff.”

SILVER: FLYING HORSE MEDICAL CENTER AND AESTHETICS

BRONZE: AMAZING MEDS

ICE RINK

GOLD: ACACIA PARK

Recognized multiple times in Best of the Springs, the Acacia Park ice rink, situated downtown, is a fun family affair. For a few dollars, the experience comes with skates and plenty of food and entertainment nearby. During the early months of winter, Downtown Colorado Springs, in collaboration with the city’s Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services department, hosts Skate in the Park. The event is presented by Academy Bank.

SILVER: SERTICH ICE CENTER

BRONZE: CADET ICE ARENA

IN-HOME CARE PROVIDER

GOLD: AXON HEALTH

719-358-9460, myaxonhealth.com

Axon mobile health services offer convenient mobile treatment from the comfort of your home, office, or anywhere within the realm of service. Axon Health is currently serving the Colorado Springs, Fountain, and Manitou Springs area, and is known for its personable customer service, and reasonable pricing.

SILVER: GENTLE SHEPHERD HOME CARE

BRONZE: AMADA SENIOR CARE

LICENSED THERAPIST

GOLD: HEART TO HEART COUNSELING CENTER 5080 Mark Dabling Boulevard, 719-278-3708, drdougweiss.com

Heart to Heart Counseling Center, founded by Dr. Doug Weiss, carries over three decades of experience specializing in issues of sex addiction and relationship counseling. The Center is made up of 16 expertly trained counselors who are well-versed in a variety of topics.

SILVER: KRAUSEFITRX — CLINICAL REHAB THERAPY AND ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE COACHING

BRONZE: LACEY WILKINS

MASSAGE THERAPY

GOLD: UNLIMITED BODYWORK 1235 Lake Plaza Drive 719-271-9663, unlimitedbodywork.com

Founded by Jennifer Doherty, Unlimited Bodywork offers a variety of services for those experiencing a range of pain and discomfort. Doherty offers services such as medical and injury massages, postural rebalancing therapy, prenatal massages and custom treatments

SILVER: AXON HEALTH

BRONZE (TIE): NATURAL THERAPEUTICS MASSAGE & WELLNESS AND CODY FRIE, LMT

MEDICAL PRACTICE

GOLD: MATTHEWS-VU MEDICAL GROUP 719-722-2542, matthewsvu.com

The Mathews-Vu Medical Group is the leading comprehensive family clinic in Colorado Springs. Known for its compassionate staff, the group is a multi-specialty practice with a focus on primary care, and behavioral health and services. Mathews-Vu currently offers same-day appointments and operates a multitude of locations.

SILVER: ALLIANCE URGENT CARE & FAMILY PRACTICE

BRONZE: THE FAMILY PRACTICE

MEDICAL SPA

GOLD: ICE CRYOSPA

11874 Stapleton Drive, Falcon, 719-375-0317, icecryospa.com

ICE CyroSpa in Black Forest offers a variety of services said to heal your mind body & soul. Known for its friendly staff and unique services, ICE CyroSpa offers non-surgical physical enhancements, esthetician services, permanent makeup, and wellness services such as cryotherapy, heated hydromassage beds, and access to their infrared sauna.

SILVER: GENESIS MEDSPA LLC

BRONZE: BLUSH AND GREY

MEDICAL SUPPLIES

GOLD: AFFORDABLE MEDICAL SUPPLY

1833 N. Circle Drive, 719-632-4036, affordablemedmart.com

Affordable Medical Supply is Colorado Spring’s go-to stop for affordable medical supplies to medical professionals, physicians, tattoo artists, and many others. Known for its helpful and friendly staff, and expansive selection, Affordable Medical Supply is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of those they serve and keeping its products affordable and accessible to everyone.

SILVER: WALGREENS

BRONZE: BRIARGATE CLINIC HANGER CLINIC: PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS

MENTAL HEALTH CARE PROVIDER

GOLD: HEART TO HEART COUNSELING CENTER 5080 Mark Dabling Boulevard, 719-278-3708, drdougweiss.com

Voters praised this facility for affordable and flexible care, citing the “welcoming and understanding” staff for their positive experiences. “Dr. Doug Weiss and the

team of counselors at Heart to Heart Counseling Center (literally) change lives,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: SPRINGS BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

BRONZE: FAMILY CARE CENTER

MIDDLE SCHOOL EDUCATOR

GOLD: AMBER KETTINGER, RMCA

Amber Kettinger is an educator and instructional coach at the Rocky Mountain Classical Academy. Celebrating six years with the school, Kettinger is said to be welcoming, knowledgable and overall an excellent teacher.

SILVER: EMMIE STEINBERG, NORTH MIDDLE

BRONZE: LORI CURRIER, JENKINS MIDDLE

ORTHODONTICS

GOLD: BAILEY ORTHODONTICS

817 Village Center Drive, Unit 110, 719-598-2800, bailey-smiles.com/about-the-doctor Bailey Orthodontics, founded by Dr. John H. Bailey, provides its patients with the highest quality of orthodontic care in a comfortable and friendly environment. Dr. Bailey holds a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists and the Rocky Mountain Society of Orthodontists. Bailey Orthodontists is known by its patrons as a great family practice with a kind-hearted, caring staff.

SILVER: JOHNSON ORTHODONTICS

BRONZE: SLIM ORTHODONTICS & PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

ORTHOPEDIC PRACTICE

GOLD: COLORADO SPRINGS ORTHOPEDIC GROUP

1259 Lake Plaza Drive, Suite 100, 719-417-4931, csog.net

The Colorado Springs Orthopedic Group is a comprehensive orthopedic care practice that has been serving its community since 1994. Colorado Springs Orthopedic practice is known for its knowledgeable, professional, and caring staff, and efficient means of providing services to its patrons daily.

SILVER: COLORADO CENTER OF ORTHOPEDIC EXCELLENCE

East Winds Acupuncture

1422 N Hancock

Suite 5 South Colorado Springs, 80903

719-520-5056

EastWindsAcupuncture.com

BRONZE: ROCKY MOUNTAIN PEDIATRIC ORTHO ONE — LONE TREE

Cheri Whobrey does a Cryotherapy session at Colorado CryoSpa. — The Gazette file.

OTOLARYNGOLOGY PRACTICE (EAR/NOSE/THROAT)

GOLD: COLORADO ENT & ALLERGY

3030 N. Circle Drive, No. 300, 719-867-7800, 6031 E. Woodmen Road, Suite 300, coloradoent.com

Colorado ENT & Allergy has been taking care of patients in Southern Colorado since 1995. Known to be a leader in the latest technology and clinical research, and is the largest ENT, Allergy, and Asthma practice in Colorado.

SILVER: CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL COLORADO, COLORADO SPRINGS

BRONZE: PIKES PEAK ENT

PEDIATRIC PRACTICE

GOLD: IRON HORSE PEDIATRICS 402 N. Tejon St., 719-633-3850, ironhorsepeds.com

Self-described as the region’s most “forward thinking” pediatric care center, Iron Horse Pediatrics is dedicated to offering accessible children’s health care, celebrating and serving families of all types and structures. Doctors at Iron Horse are known to be personable, kind, and respectful of any parent’s decisions when it comes to the health and wellness of their children.

SILVER: MILESTONE PEDIATRICS

BRONZE: DUBLIN PRIMARY CARE

PHYSICAL THERAPY

GOLD: HOPE PHYSICAL THERAPY & WELLNESS 4850 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 719-466-6800, hope4wellness.com

Hope Physical Therapy and Wellness Center is a charitable wellness and physical therapy office devoted to helping people feel their best and enjoy life to the fullest. Since opening its doors in 2016, the center has provided organic, personalized services to its patients, and donated a portion of the center’s proceeds to charities in Colorado Springs, and the Dominican Republic.

SILVER: STRIVE PHYSICAL THERAPY

BRONZE: JOINT EFFORT PHYSICAL THERAPY

PLACE FOR BIRTHDAY

GOLD: DART WARS 5850 Championship View, 719-573-8022, dartwars.com

Dart Wars, the nation’s best indoor Nerf battle arena, is a great place for birthdays, and team-building events alike. Dart Wars offers an expansive Nerf battle arena and access to an array of Nerf guns and bullets. A great place to get out some energy and celebrate with friends, Dart Wars is known to be inclusive, affordable, and fun for all ages.

SILVER: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO

BRONZE: THE SUMMIT INTERQUEST

Rocky Mountain Classical Academy is a repeat Best of the Springs winner. — The Gazette file.

PRESCHOOL

GOLD: ROCKY MOUNTAIN CLASSICAL ACADEMY

4620 Antelope Ridge Drive, 719-622-8000

Rocky Mountain Classical Academy is a charter academy in District 49 of Colorado Springs that educates kids from kindergarten to eighth grade. It is known as a school with an amazing staff, that truly cares about its students, always pushing them to strive for the best.

SILVER: LITTLE SUNSHINE’S PLAYHOUSE AND PRESCHOOL OF COLORADO SPRINGS

BRONZE: ST. PAUL CATHOLIC SCHOOL

SLEEP CENTER

GOLD: UCHEALTH SLEEP MEDICINE CENTER — MEMORIAL HOSPITAL NORTH

4110 Briargate Parkway Medical Office Building, First Suite 445, 719-364-8840, uchealth.org

The UCHealth Sleep Medicine Center at Memorial Hospital North provides the highest level of sleep medicine services in Colorado Springs and is accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The Sleep Medicine Center at Memorial hospital is an excellent place to identify issues disrupting sleep and find the help you need to get the best night’s rest.

SILVER: ST. FRANCIS SLEEP CENTER

BRONZE: PENROSE-ST. FRANCIS SLEEP DISORDER CENTER

SUMMER DAY CAMP

GOLD: CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN ZOO

4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, 719-633-9925; cmzoo.org

What’s a fun way of get up close to animals, exploring the outdoors, and interacting with zoo keepers? Sign your kids up for summer camps at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

SILVER: EAGLE LAKE DAY CAMP

BRONZE: ACADEMY OF LIFE AND LEADERSHIP TAEKWONDO

TECHNICAL SCHOOL

GOLD: PIKES PEAK STATE COLLEGE

5675 S. Academy Blvd., 719-502-2000, pikespeak.edu

Pikes Peak State College is the largest institution for higher education in the Pikes Peak Region and offers over 150 programs in liberal arts, sciences, and career technical education.

SILVER: COLORADO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY

BRONZE: POWER TECHNICAL (PTEC)

TEEN HANGOUT

GOLD: DART WARS 5850 Championship View, 719-573-8022, dartwars.com

Dart Wars, the Nation’s best indoor Nerf battle arena, is a great place for birthdays, and team-building events alike. Dart Wars offers an expansive Nerf battle arena and access to an array of Nerf guns and bullets. A great place to get out some energy and celebrate with friends, Dart Wars is known to be inclusive, affordable, and fun for all ages.

SILVER: CHAPEL HILLS MALL

BRONZE: THE CITADEL MALL

TUTORING PROGRAM

GOLD: HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER

1430 Kelly Johnson Blvd., 719-239-7073, huntingtonhelps.com

The Huntington Learning Center offers in-person and online tutoring to kids in grades kindergarten to 12 in subjects such as reading, math, writing, phonics, biology, chemistry, and more. The center also offers prep courses for the ACT, SAT, Advanced Placement exams, etc.

SILVER: KUMON

URGENT CARE/WALK-IN CLINIC

GOLD: UCHEALTH URGENT CARE

2767 Janitell Road, 719-365-2888, uchealth.org

UCHealth Urgent Care serves the Colorado Springs community by offering prompt treatment for illness and injury that just can’t wait for an appointment at the doctor’s. The urgent care facility is known for its quick and competent staff and efficient online scheduling.

SILVER: ALLIANCE URGENT CARE & FAMILY PRACTICE

BRONZE: MATTHEWS-VU MEDICAL GROUP

WELLNESS CENTER

GOLD: HOPE PHYSICAL THERAPY & WELLNESS 4850 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 719-466-6800, hope4wellness.com

Hope Physical Therapy and Wellness Center is a charitable wellness and physical therapy office devoted to helping people feel their best and enjoy life to the fullest. Since opening its doors in 2016, the center has provided organic, personalized services to its patients, and donated a portion of the center’s proceeds to charities in Colorado Springs, and the Dominican Republic.

SILVER: HYDRATION + WELLNESS BAR

BRONZE: LOTUS CENTER FOR WELL-BEING

f you can’t find a food or drink that you like in Colorado Springs, it only means you’re weak from hunger.

This city’s buffet table circles the globe: Schnitzel. Gumbo. Panettone. Hawaiian tacos. Chicken tikka. Lobster rolls — in Colorado, for cryin’ out loud. Its beverage cart offers everything from one-of-a-kind microbrews to distillers’ top-shelf cocktails.

Best of all, Colorado Springs’ best restaurants and bars range from mainstays to upstarts that show no inclination to rest on their laurels or become a passing fad.

A Celtic Reuben with Skinny Fries from Gold Winner, Jack Quinn’s. — The Gazette, Cody Van Hooser

AMERICAN

GOLD: COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY

1110 InterQuest Parkway, 719-434-5750; 600 S. 21st St., 719-466-8240, cmbrew.com

They have all the favorite American dishes covered. Think burgers, sandwiches, steak, beer-can chicken, salads and wraps. Great down-home dining with Colorado craft beers to wash it down. Readers said: “Amazing atmosphere,” and “Never had a bad meal and I’ve dined there many times. Diverse menu with something for everyone.”

SILVER: ATMOSPHERE GASTROPUB

BRONZE: KING’S CHEF DINER

BAKERY

GOLD: BOONZAAIJER’S DUTCH BAKERY

610 E. Fillmore St., 719-264-0177, dutchpastry.com

The Dutch owner is a master of all things European pastry. The bakery is a perennial Best of the Springs winner. Voters said: “Yummm! Wish they had more room and easier access but one finds their way,” and “Love this bakery with all my heart, so soothing and the goods are delicious.”

SILVER: MARIGOLD CAFE & BAKERY

BRONZE: THE FRENCH KITCHEN

BAR

GOLD: ATMOSPHERE GASTROPUB

1327 InterQuest Parkway, 719-354-4764, atmospheregastropub.com

Much more than a pub with bar grub. Here you get a true gastro experience with dishes like lobster tots and duck poutine. Voters said: “The tuna tartare is amazing,” and “Very hip atmosphere. Great food and drinks.”

SILVER: TONY’S BAR

BRONZE: PATTY JEWETT BAR & GRILL

BARBECUE

GOLD: RUDY’S “COUNTRY STORE” AND BAR-B-Q 315 S. 31st St., 719-471-4120, rudysbbq.com Here is where you can get stuffed on Texas barbecue. Be prepared to stand in line to buy cue by the half pound with all the classic sides. Readers said: “The BBQ is awesome. Full of flavor and different spices,” and “The best BBQ in Colorado Springs, hands down.”

SILVER: BIRD DOG BBQ

BRONZE: FRONT RANGE BARBEQUE

BARTENDER

GOLD: MISSY LUEBBERS, THE PUBLIC HOUSE — PUB & GRILL 445 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd., 719-465-3079, thepublichouseco.com

Since 2013 this neighborhood watering hole has been the place to get upscale comfort food and outstanding drinks with cocktails shaken by Missy Luebbers. Luebbers says, “She likes to make a Spa Lemonade for something crisp and refreshing on a warm patio day or put a spin on a classic with her Honey Old Fashioned featuring Breckenridge Bourbon.”

SILVER: JILLIAN GRUDZINSKI, THE WOBBLY OLIVE

BRONZE: CRAIG ANDRESKI, UVA WINE BAR

BREAKFAST

GOLD: URBAN EGG A DAYTIME EATERY

Multiple locations, urbaneggeatery.com

The morning dinning crowd loves this place. And why not? It’s got all the bases covered breakfast and lunch with gourmet pancakes and sandwiches all made freshly with organic ingredients. A frequent Best of the Springs winner. One voter said, “Such great menu options, from sweet, to savory, to healthy.” Another added, “Love the gluten free pancakes.”

SILVER: OMELETTE PARLOR

BRONZE: OMELETS ETC.

The pastry case is full in the morning at Boonzaaijer’s Dutch Bakery. — Photo by Jerilee Bennett

BREWERY

GOLD: RED LEG BREWING CO.

2323 Garden of The Gods Road, 719-598-3776, redlegbrewing.com

Spacious brewery and tasting room with a scenic view of Garden of the Gods Park. Plenty of outdoor space for dining and playing games. Readers said: “Good beer, fun atmosphere, and cool rooftop view,” and “Another family favorite hangout. Perfect to go have a drink, and even bring the kids. Corn hole, picnic tables on turf, live music. Something for everyone.”

SILVER: GOAT PATCH BREWING CO.

BRONZE: BRISTOL BREWING CO.

BREW PUB

GOLD: CERBERUS BREWING CO.

702 W. Colorado Ave., 636-2337, cerberusbrewingco.com

Dog-friendly patio where you can enjoy award winning craft brews and outstanding food. Voters said: “We love the selection of food and Craft beer. They do both well.,” and “Best kitchen of any microbrewery in town.”

SILVER: COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY

BRONZE: PIKES PEAK BREWING CO.

Cerberus Brewing Co. is loved for its inviting atmosphere and exceptional food and beer. — The Gazette file.

BRONCOS SPORTS BAR

GOLD: BUBBA’S 33

5807 Constitution Ave., 719-576-1223, bubbas33.com

When the boys in orange hit the grid iron Bubba’s have you covered with wings, pizzas and burgers. Voters said: “Our favorite place! Sports-bar, good TV and excellent food. Kid-friendly,” and “Can’t get enough of this place. Consistently great service and food. Always a go-to for watching sports.”

SILVER: BACK EAST BAR & GRILL

BRONZE: O’FURRY’S

BRUNCH

GOLD: URBAN EGG A DAYTIME EATERY

Multiple locations, urbaneggeatery.com

The place is a winner for a causal get together with friends for lunch or a business meeting. The menu has plenty of healthy options like a buddha bowl or the market salad. Readers said: “Great place to meet friends for brunch,” and “We like everything. So many great brunch options.”

SILVER: THE BROADMOOR

BRONZE: OMELETTE PARLOR

BUFFET

GOLD: LITTLE NEPAL: INDIAN RESTAURANT & BAR 1747 S. 8th St., 719-477-6997, 4820 Flintridge Drive, 719-598-3428, lnepal.com

Take an exotic flavor trip without an airfare at this amazing buffet. Voters said: “Authentic and tasty Indian food,” and “Good Indian food with a reasonably priced buffet.”

SILVER: GOLDEN CORRAL BUFFET & GRILL BRONZE: KING BUFFET

BURRITOS

GOLD: MONICA’S TACO SHOP 5829 Palmer Park Blvd., 719-597-7022, monicastacoshop.dinehere.us

A frequent Best of the Springs winner the go-to taco shop is top notch. The burritos are a fan favorite. Go for the breakfast flour tortilla wrapped bundle. Voters chimed in: “Best breakfast burritos in the state,” and “Burritos are excellent.”

SILVER: ARLENE’S BEANS

BRONZE: HACIENDA COLORADO

BUSINESS LUNCH

GOLD: MARIGOLD CAFE & BAKERY

4605 Centennial Blvd., 719-599-4776, marigoldcoloradosprings.com

Regulars line up for the reasonable priced big lunches. Voters said: “Recommend for lunch and dessert,” and “Marigold is a priceless gem. From their food, to the servers and owners, it’s always been my family’s happy place to celebrate. Whether we’re just dining out with local family, or dazzling our friends and family from out-of-town, you won’t find better cuisine or better people anywhere else in the city.”

SILVER: MACKENZIE’S CHOP HOUSE

BRONZE: GARDEN OF THE GODS MARKET AND CAFE

CAFE

GOLD: LA BAGUETTE BAKERY, CAFE AND WINE BAR

2417 W. Colorado Ave., 719-577-4818, labaguette-co.com

The original La Baguette French bakery has been a community treasure more than 30 years. Voters said:

“Excellent French onion soup and baguette,” and “The best bakery and all things bread our city has to offer.”

SILVER: THE FRENCH KITCHEN

BRONZE: LOYAL COFFEE

CAJUN

GOLD: MAMA PEARL’S CAJUN KITCHEN

162 Tracker Drive, 719-964-0234, mommapearls.com

From humble beginnings this Cajun eatery is always a fun place to dine and have authentic Louisianan favorites. Crayfish boils are especially fun during the season. Voters agree: “Delicious and authentic Cajun food,” and “Best Cajun food around, and even better is the ownership. Love this place!”

SILVER: SPRINGS ORLEANS

BRONZE: LUCHALS

CAKES/CUPCAKES

GOLD: BOONZAAIJER’S DUTCH BAKERY

610 E. Fillmore St., 719-264-0177, dutchpastry.com

Cakes are not only beautiful to look at they are heavenly to eat. Voters said: “Best cake ever hands down,” and “My favorite item to get here is the apricot roulade. It is amazing. Everything I have tried has been amazing.”

SILVER: NOTHING BUNDT CAKES

BRONZE: GRAZE CONFECTIONS

Chef Robert and Becky Brunet are the owner’s of Mama Pearl’s Cajun Kitchen in northern Colorado Springs. —Photo by Jerilee Bennett

CANDY SHOP

GOLD: ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY OLD COLORADO CITY

2431 W. Colorado Ave., 719-635-4131, rmcf.com

Hunkering for a slab of fudge or a caramel apple? This is the place to find your fix. Voters said: “Oh, love the candy. A must stop for great candies and caramel apples.”

SILVER: PATSY’S CANDY & GIFT SHOP

BRONZE: ROCKET FIZZ

CARRY OUT RESTAURANT

GOLD: TEXAS ROADHOUSE

595 S. 8th St., 719-473-9711, 3120 N. Powers Blvd., 719-638-8050, texasroadhouse.com

Carry-out has gotten a new life since the pandemic shutdown with eateries stepping up their game for packaging food to-go. This is the first year to acknowledge those who embraced the challenge. Voters liked this steak haven as a stand out for getting the job done.

SILVER: ARLENE’S BEANS

BRONZE: COLONEL MUSTARD’S SANDWICH EMPORIUM

CASUAL DINING

GOLD: P74 THE DOWNTOWN PANINO’S 604 N. Tejon St., 719-635-7452, paninosdowntown.com

The family-owned eatery has been a mainstay downtown more than 40 years. The go-to panino sandwich is a winner. Voters said: “Wonderful paninos, which come in a variety of ingredients. Great service,” and “Nothing compares. You want Italian? This is the best.”

SILVER: PATTY JEWETT BAR & GRILL

BRONZE: T-BIRDS TACOS & TEQUILA

CHEAP EATS

GOLD: BRAKEMAN’S BURGERS

10 S. Sierra Madre St., 719-375-8769, brakemansburgers.com

Located in the historic Old Train Depot downtown this is a family-friendly place for outstanding burgers, pizzas and craft beers. Save room for ice cream sundae. Voters said: “Fun to dine by the railroad,” and “Love the relleno burger. Creative!”

SILVER: IN-N-OUT BURGER

BRONZE: MONICA’S TACO SHOP

CHEESECAKE

GOLD: MARIGOLD CAFE & BAKERY

4605 Centennial Blvd., 719-599-4776, marigoldcoloradosprings.com

A perineal Best Of the Springs winner for all thing sweet and the cheesecake is a favorite treat. Voters said, “Delicious food and desserts. Very personable staff,” and “Delicious desserts. Wide variety. Reasonable prices.”

SILVER: DEATH BY CHEESECAKE

BRONZE: DECADENT COLORADO SPRINGS

CHEF

GOLD: BROTHER LUCK-FOUR BY BROTHER LUCK & THE STUDIO

321 N. Tejon St., 719-434-2741, fourbybrotherluck.com

Year-after-year Luck continues to garner awards and accolades for his culinary talents. Through his charity work and appearances on TV reality shows he shines the light on the culinary community of the Springs. Voters said, “Just an awesome chef with a caring heart for his community and the food he creates,” and “Our star chef! Delicious everything and so classy.”

SILVER: FRANCO PISANI — PARAVICINI’S ITALIAN BISTRO & RISTORANTE DI SOPRA

BRONZE: STEVEN BAILEY — ATMOSPHEREGASTROPUB

CHICKEN SANDWICH

GOLD: CHICK-FIL-A

Multiple locations, chick-fil-a.com

Customers are in love with the chicken served at this fast-food Mecca. Most of the stores have multiple drive-up lanes to handle the demand. Voters said, “Best chicken sandwich,” and “Oh, so delicious are the original chicken sandwiches, cool wraps and milkshakes.”

SILVER: BIRDCALL — COLORADO SPRINGS

BRONZE: CLUCKIN CHICKEN FOOD TRAILER

CHICKEN WINGS

GOLD: O’FURRY’S BAR

900 E. Fillmore St., 719-634-3106, ofurrys.com

This former carriage house, which is attached to the Omelette Parlor, is a go-to for the delicious, double dipped, crispy chicken wings. Voters said, “Double dipped wings,” and “Hands down best wings. Such a cool little spot to enjoy cheap drinks and good food.”

SILVER: WINGSTOP

BRONZE: O’MALLEY’S

CHINESE

GOLD: COAL MINE DRAGON

1720 W. Uintah St., 578-5430, coalminedragon8.com

They have the bases covered for Chinese go-to options soups, dumplings, egg foo young, fried rice, and family dinners. Voters said, “Been coming since I was a kid. Best Chinese in town,” and “Good food. Good prices. Nice staff. Timely service.”

SILVER: P.F. CHANG’S

BRONZE: SHANGRI-LA RESTAURANT EAST

COFFEE DRIVE-THRU

GOLD: DUTCH BROS COFFEE

Multiple locations, dutchbros.com

There’s never a time that there isn’t a line waiting for coffee and other specialty drinks at this fun spot. You won’t mind waiting to give or get your orders because the staff is personable and keep you entertained. Voters said, “Obsessed with every drink on the menu. And the service and community are the best,” and “The drinks are great, but the people will keep you coming back.”

SILVER: STARBUCKS

BRONZE: ZIGGI’S COFFEE

COFFEE SHOP

GOLD: PIKES PERK COFFEE AND TEAHOUSE

5965 N. Academy Blvd., 719-522-1432, pikesperk.com

Since opening in 2003, this place has been considered the “Cheers” of coffee shops. It’s the place for community gathering, networking, meeting friends and hunkering down to work. They have earned a reputation as the place to go for quality coffee, tea, local beers and ciders, and pastries. Voters said, “Love the knowledgeable staff and kind patrons.”

SILVER: WAYFINDER COFFEE CO.

BRONZE: LOYAL COFFEE

COFFEE SHOP — NON-FRANCHISED

GOLD: WAYFINDER COFFEE CO 6140 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 719-264-2386, wayfindercoffee.com

Coffees are sourced from around the world and roasted in house. All day menu of food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Voters said, “Very quaint, adorable coffee shop. Go there to work, or enjoy conversation with friends over coffee,” and “Just an amazing ambiance, fun coffee drinks if you like ’em sweet.”

SILVER: THE PERK DOWNTOWN

BRONZE: LOYAL COFFEE

COLORADO CUISINE

GOLD: THE MARGARITA AT PINE CREEK

7350 Pine Creek Road, 719-598-8667, margaritaatpinecreek.com

Chef Eric Viedt is passionate about Colorado food and products. He goes out of his way shop locally to prepare his inspired cuisine. He opens the spacious grounds around the restaurant to host a local farmer and art market on Saturdays. Voters said, “Love the summer farmers market and weekend brunch,” and “I especially love this restaurant in the summer when we can enjoy their outdoor area.”

SILVER: COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY BRONZE: BLACK FOREST BISTRO

CRAFTED COCKTAIL

GOLD: MAPLE BACON OLD FASHIONED AT BLACK FOREST BISTRO

6750 Shoup Road, 719-459-7884, bfbistro.com

Everything is better with bacon including this spin on a classic whiskey cocktail. Check out the bistro on Thirsty Thursdays for drink specials.

SILVER: THE LIBERATOR AT 1350 DISTILLING

BRONZE: BOURBON BLUES AT UVA WINE BAR

CUBAN

GOLD: PIGLATIN COCINA

2825 Dublin Blvd., 375-0939, piglatincocina.com

From popular food truck to bustling neighborhood hangout, owners Andres and Trisha Velez have mastered Latino fusion foods to perfection. You’ll find dishes like spicy mojo sauced pork sided with platanos maduros (fried sweet plantains) or tostones (fried green plantains). Voters said, “Piglatin has great, flavorful food and such a fun atmosphere,” and “Some of the best food. Good margaritas served in a fun funky environment.”

SILVER: “LUCY I’M HOME” THE FLAVOR OF CUBA

BRONZE: SHUGA’S

DELI

GOLD: MOLLICA’S ITALIAN MARKET AND DELI 985 W. Garden of the Gods Road, 719-598-1088, mollicas.com

Since 1987 the family owned Italian market, deli, restaurant, and catering service has been a vibrant place for the community. Voters said, “The only place in town to get many authentic Italian items,” and “A great resource for lovers of Italian food and supplies.”

SILVER: WOOGLIN’S DELI & CAFE

BRONZE: OLIVER’S DELI

DESSERT

GOLD: MARIGOLD CAFE & BAKERY

4605 Centennial Blvd., 719-599-4776, marigoldcoloradosprings.com

When it comes to Best Of the Springs winning eatery, Marigold takes the awards in almost every category for ooey-gooey, yummy treats. And desserts are another notch on the winner’s belt. Voters said, “Great restaurant and desserts,” and “You have to have their carrot cake.”

SILVER: BJ’S VELVET FREEZ

BRONZE: JOSH & JOHN’S ICE CREAM

DINER

GOLD: BLACK BEAR DINER COLORADO SPRINGS

1340 Garden Of The Gods Road., 719-268-6874, 975 N. Academy Blvd., 719-314-3616

This California-based chain is known for large portions of comfort food, like chicken fried steak with eggs and hash browns. Breakfast served all day. Voters said, “Such a variety to choose from and always delicious, not to mention very generous servings,” and “Always nice staff and delicious home-style food.”

SILVER: KING’S CHEF DINER

BRONZE: ROSIE’S DINER

DISTILLERY

GOLD: AXE AND THE OAK DISTILLERY 4665 Town Center Drive, 719-203-5142, axeandtheoakdistillery.com

This was one of the first whiskey distilleries in Colorado Springs and has become a national award winning bottler. The fresh Rocky Mountain water and locally grown grains are credited with for the smooth tasting golden liquid. Voters said, “Best Bourbon hands down,” and “Great burgers here! The whiskey burger is awesome.”

SILVER: 1350 DISTILLING

BRONZE: DISTILLERY 291

Mollica’s Italian Market and Deli grilled chicken salad. — The Gazette file.

DIVE BAR

GOLD: TONY’S BAR

326 N. Tejon St., 719-228-6566, tonysdowntownbar.com

For more than 15 years Tony’s is the place to enjoy Midwestern grub and brews on game days, happy hour every day, and Bloody Mary Sundays. It’s family-friendly spot to have butter burgers, fried white cheddar cheese curds, beer-battered walleye (comes with any draft beer every Friday), Reubens on marble rye bread and fromscratch beer cheese soup. Voters said, “Great atmosphere and amazing service,” and “A proper dive bar.”

SILVER: O’FURRY’S

BRONZE: BENNY’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

DOG FRIENDLY BREWERY

GOLD: PUB DOG COLORADO

2207 Bott Ave., 719-375-0771, pubdogcolorado.com

There’s a 3,000-square-foot, fenced-in, off-leash area for fur babies to play while you dine. The dog yard is complete with toys and lots of fur friends. Voters said, “My favorite place to take my pup is the Pub Dog. It’s a win-win for the entire family,” and “A restaurant you can take dogs inside while you eat, enough said — this place is awesome.”

SILVER: RED LEG BREWING CO.

BRONZE: CERBERUS BREWING CO.

DOG FRIENDLY RESTAURANT OR BAR

GOLD: LAZY DOG RESTAURANT & BAR

7605 N. Academy Blvd., 719-445-5851, order.lazydogrestaurants.com/menu/colorado-springs

The dog-themed eatery serves an upscale familyfriendly menu. You’ll find starters, soups, salads, sandwiches and burgers. Try the bison meat loaf for a hearty entrée. Frozen TV dinners to take home are winners too. Voters said, “Love their friendly atmosphere and that dogs are welcome,” and “I can bring my dog! Oh, and the food and service are excellent.”

SILVER: PUB DOG COLORADO

BRONZE: CERBERUS BREWING CO.

DOUGHNUTS

GOLD: AMY’S DONUTS

2704 E. Fountain Blvd., 632-0512; 3765 Bloomington St., 719-465-1942, amysdonuts.com

Since 2013 Amy’s Donuts have taken Colorado Springs by storm. They couldn’t get a second location open fast enough. There are more than 100 flavor choices. Voters said, “They have the craziest flavors but they are so good,” and “Incredibly large and unique selection of donuts.”

SILVER: KRISPY KREME

BRONZE: DONUT MILL

Both pets and their owners celebrate Halloween in costume at Pub Dog Colorado. — Photo by Jerilee Bennett

DOWNTOWN LUNCH

GOLD: RED GRAVY ITALIAN BISTRO 23 S. Tejon St., Colorado Springs, 719-635-7661, redgravyco.com

Eric Brenner brought his St. Louis style of Italian food to Colorado Springs in 2016. Called Red Gravy, it’s what St. Louis Italian immigrants called their red pasta sauce. He serves elevated dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. Don’t miss the Sunday night dinner series, which is an intimate cooking class held in Blue at Red Gravy, a lounge at the rear of the restaurant. Voters said, “Was really impressed with the quality of the dishes here. Very flavorful sauces,” and “Good Italian in a no-frills setting.”

SILVER: POOR RICHARD’S BRONZE: COLORADO CRAFT

ENCHILADAS

GOLD: ARLENE’S BEANS, SALSA AND CATERING 366 2nd St., arlenesbeans.com

Straight out of New Mexico, Arlene Padilla, knows how to coaxes the most flavor from dried red chiles. Her enchiladas bathed in the brick-colored red sauce is the real deal. Voters said, “Great New Mexican food from one of the best families in the area,” and “I’m continually blown away by the tasty food I’ve gotten here.”

SILVER: JOSE MULDOON’S BRONZE: SEÑOR MANUEL MEXICAN CUISINE

FAST FOOD

GOLD: CHICK-FIL-A

Multiple locations, chick-fil-a.com

There are at least two drive-thru lines and sometimes three to make getting your chicken fix lightning fast. Voters said, “My pleasure,” with a smile, is how they respond to “thank you” every time. Good customer service,” and “Quick and good service, friendly employees.”

SILVER: IN-N-OUT BURGER

BRONZE: RAISING CANE’S CHICKEN FINGERS

FINE DINING

GOLD: PEPPER TREE RESTAURANT

888 W. Moreno Ave., 719-471-4888, peppertreecs.com

Elegant dining room with expertly trained wait staff who preform tableside flamed dishes for show-stopping flair. Voters said, “Probably the fanciest steak place in town, but oh you haven’t had a steak quite like this. This is definitely a special occasion-splurge date kind of place, but you will leave feeling like you are like royalty.””

SILVER: THE MELTING POT

BRONZE (TIE): THE MARGARITA AT PINE CREEK AND MONA LISA FONDUE RESTAURANT

FISH TACO

GOLD: BONEFISH GRILL

5102 N. Nevada Ave., 719-598-0826, locations. bonefishgrill.com/Colorado/Colorado-springs

One of the many popular dishes on the menu at this eatery. The fish is fried perfectly with a crunchy crust and steaming, hot, flaky fish. Voters said, “Bonefish Grill is our go-to restaurant for seafood. Classy restaurant with delicious food and drinks.”

SILVER: FUZZY’S TACO SHOP

BRONZE: LA’AU’S TACO SHOP

FOOD TRUCK

GOLD: CHEF BOB’S LOBSTAH TRAP

5660 Barnes Road, 424-7645, thelobstahtrap.com

An award-winning chef, straight out of Watertown just outside of Boston, MA, he has brought land-locked Colorado Spring lobster. You can catch the truck around town or enjoy your lobster fix at his sit-down restaurant. Voters said, “OMG! I’m glad I found this place. The seafood is incredible.”

SILVER: ROLL UP FOOD TRUCK

BRONZE: MATEO’S FOOD TRUCK

SENIOR CARE

Thank you for voting Amada Senior Care Best of the Springs 7 years in a row!

DID YOU KNOW?

• When you start using your policy, you stop paying your premium

• Your benefits have either doubled or tripled while you held onto these policies.

AMADA

We know that somebody you love needs us. We are here to care for your family as YOU WOULD.

FRENCH

GOLD: LA BAGUETTE — OLD COLORADO CITY

2417 W. Colorado Ave., 719-577-4818, labaguette-co.com

This is one of the first places Colorado Springs experienced authentic French baguettes and other French pastries and Parisian delicacies. Voters said, “Love this place in Old Colorado City. everything is yummy,” and “The best bakery and all things bread our city has to offer.”

SILVER: MARIGOLD CAFE & BAKERY

BRONZE: THE FRENCH KITCHEN

FRENCH ONION SOUP

GOLD: LA BAGUETTE — OLD COLORADO CITY

2417 W. Colorado Ave., 719-577-4818, labaguette-co.com

A perennial Best of the Springs winner for all things French, especially the cheese crowned French onion soup. Voters said: “Excellent French onion soup and baguette,” and “Awesome French onion soup, great atmosphere, love this little restaurant.”

SILVER: MARIGOLD CAFE & BAKERY

BRONZE: LA BAGUETTE FRENCH BISTRO

FRIED CHICKEN

GOLD: JUNIPER VALLEY RANCH

16350 S. Colorado 115, 719-576-0741, junipervalleyranch.com

Such a lovely family-run eatery that for years has been the go-to spot for family-style fried chicken dinners with all the fixings. Voters said, “Hands down the best fried Chicken in COS,” and “Family-style, fried chicken like grandma made.”

SILVER: RAISING CANE’S CHICKEN FINGERS

BRONZE: CHICK-FIL-A

FRIES

GOLD: RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS AND BREWS

Multiple locations, locations.redrobin.com/co/ colorado-springs

Brace yourself for huge burgers and mountains of golden fries. Voters said, “I love their tavern burger and fries,” and “You can’t beat the bottomless fries and broccoli.”

SILVER: FIVE GUYS

BRONZE: SKIRTED HEIFER

FROZEN YOGURT

GOLD: LULU’S FROZEN YOGURT

9475 Briar Village Point, 719-445-0734, lulusyogurt.com

Since 2020 this heaven of creaminess has been a Best of the Springs gold winner. And why not? With 24 flavors of yogurt, sorbet and gelato including dairy-free and gluten-free options, along with more than 90 candy, nut, cereal and fresh fruit toppings, there’s something to please everyone. Voters said, “Perfect spot on a warm spring or summer day. Staff is always great, too,” and “This place is amazing. A fun and unique treat in an easy-to-access location.”

SILVER: YOYOGURT

BRONZE: ITOPIT

GASTROPUB

GOLD: ODYSSEY GASTROPUB

311 N. Tejon St., 719-999-5127, odysseymenus.com

Year-after-year this special downtown eatery is in the winner’s circle of Best of the Springs. The travel-themed urban bar has a great vibe where you can meet friends and have outstanding food. Voters said, “A chill, cool

place to grab a bite to eat and drink,” and “Always an inventive menu.”

SILVER: ATMOSPHERE GASTROPUB

BRONZE: BLACK FOREST BISTRO

GERMAN

GOLD: EDELWEISS RESTAURANT

34 E. Ramona Ave., 719-633-2220, edelweissrest.com

Another Best of the Springs perennial winner. How can you beat the Bavarian atmosphere inside and out. Like a trip to Germany with out bothering with the hassle of travel. The food is as authentic as you’ll find in our village. Voters said, “Authentic German food, great beer and wine, beautiful patio especially on summer nights, indoor seating feels like you are part of the family,” and “It’s like going back to Germany. Authentic food with a lovely ambiance — our go-to for a nice night out.”

SILVER: UWE’S GERMAN RESTAURANT

BRONZE: WIMBERGER’S OLD WORLD BAKERY AND DELICATESSEN

GLUTEN-FREE RESTAURANT/BAKERY

GOLD: MONSE’S PUPUSERIA

115 S. 25th St., 719-473-0877, monsestasteofelsalvador.online

Monse Hines has been charming our city at her Salvadorian Pupuseria for years. Those wishing to avoid gluten can have their needs met here with the 100% gluten-free menu that is offered. Voters said, “A fantastic option to visit with friends with celiac or gluten intolerance. And a yummy option too,” and “One of the only places I can eat, so grateful to have a taste gluten-free dedicated restaurant.”

SILVER: TAPATERIA

BRONZE: MOCHI THAI’M DONUTS

GREEN CHILI

GOLD: KING’S CHEF DINER

110 E. Costilla St., 634-9135; 131 E. Bijou St., 719-636-5010, kingschefdiner.com

If you can stand the heat of the green pods, you’ll love this place. The best of Colorado’s Pueblo green chili is ladled up on most dishes. Voters said, “Best green chili and breakfast burrito,” and “Their green chili is out of this world.”

SILVER: WESTERN OMELETTE (ORIGINAL EST. 1992)

BRONZE: ARLENE’S BEANS SALSA AND CATERING

The patio area of Edelweiss is known for it’s ambience and beauty. Edelweiss has been serving German food for over fifty years.

— Photo by Jerilee Bennett.

GYRO

GOLD: JAKE AND TELLY’S GREEK TAVERNA

2616 W. Colorado Ave., 719-633-0406, jakeandtellys.com

In 1997, brothers Jake and Telly Topakas, opened their eatery and immediately started charming customers with their family recipes for their Greek specialties, like gyros. Voters said, “Greek is our favorite. Here we found excellent authentic food with a fun atmosphere,” and “Opah! Delicious food, clean and good atmosphere.”

SILVER: TASTE OF JERUSALEM CAFE

BRONZE: THE PURPLE ONION

HAPPY HOUR

GOLD: SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL

5925 Dublin Blvd., 719-591-6177, salsabravacolorado.com

Rocky Mountain Restaurant Group was launched in 2002 with this eatery concept. It along with a lineup of other concepts have been in the Best of the Springs winner’s circle annually. Happy Hour here is a highlight of the day starting with the signature sweet and sour, which is handmade daily using fresh lemon and lime juice. Voters said, “Great place for meeting friends for food and drinks.”

SILVER: THE WOBBLY OLIVE

BRONZE: COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY

HAWAIIAN

GOLD: L&L HAWAIIAN BARBECUE

5850 Barnes Road, 719-570-1888, hawaiianbarbecue.com

Come here for an island fix of an Hawaiian barbecue plate lunch, which consists of two scoops of rice, a scoop of macaroni salad and a choice of meat, fish or veggie entrée. Voters said: “A fun reminder of vacation discoveries from my trips,” and “Plate lunch and spam, what more can you need?”

SILVER: LA’AU’S TACO SHOP BRONZE: JULIE’S KITCHEN

HIDDEN GEM

GOLD: MONSE’S PUPUSERIA

115 S. 25th St., 719-473-0877, monsestasteofelsalvador.online

Once you discover the entrance to the eatery is at the back of the eatery, through the gate of a tall wooden fence, you’ll be glad you found it. The Salvadorian pupusas are amazing as well as all the other Hispanic dishes on the menu. Voters said, “Unique dishes at a fun location. Looking forward to going back,” and “I think this is possibly the best food in Colorado Springs. Everything I’ve tried makes my mouth water.”

SILVER: PATTY JEWETT BAR & GRILL

BRONZE: BLACK FOREST BISTRO

HOT DOG

GOLD: COSTCO WHOLESALE

5050 N. Nevada Ave., 719- 264-5010; 5885 Barnes Road, 719-591-3002, costco.com

Can you beat a $1.50 hot dog and soda combo at the Costco food court? Weighing in at a quarter pound of USDA-inspected, 100% pure beef hot dogs with no fillers, byproducts, or artificial colors or flavors served on top-quality buns that are soft, yet sturdy enough to hold up to all that juicy meat and complimentary condiments — how can you go wrong? Voters said, “Great selection and the best hot dogs in town,” and “Cheap hot dogs and pizza. Tasty too.”

SILVER: DOG HAUS

BRONZE: WIENERSCHNITZEL

HOTEL RESTAURANT/BAR

GOLD: GOLDEN BEE AT THE BROADMOOR

1 Lake Ave., 719-577-5776, broadmoor.com

A frequent Best of the Springs winner for the great pub food and bar drinks. Sing-along piano entertainment makes for a lively evening. Voters said, “Love the

atmosphere and the food is always well prepared and delicious,” and “So. Much. Fun! I have bees from when my grandma went there back in the day.”

SILVER: THE STEAKHOUSE AT FLYING HORSE

BRONZE: HOMA AT KINSHIP LANDING

HUEVOS RANCHEROS

GOLD: URBAN EGG A DAYTIME EATERY

Multiple locations, urbaneggeatery.com

The huevos are a hit here with perfectly poached eggs served on blue corn tortillas and choice of red or green chile or go with Christmas, which is a marriage of red and green chile. Voters said, “There’s a reason there is always a crazy wait for this place on weekends. There’s something for everyone on the menu, even if you’re not a breakfast person. I love me some pancakes (which do not underestimate the pancakes here) but Tatum’s Avocado Toast is where it’s at if I’m feeling savory,” and “Such great menu options, from sweet, to savory, to healthy.”

SILVER: OMELETTE PARLOR

BRONZE: RUDY’S LITTLE HIDEAWAY RESTARUANT

Monse Hines of Monse’s Pupusarea serves the national dish of El Salvador, pupusas. — The Gazette file.

ICE CREAM/GELATO/FROZEN TREATS

GOLD: JOSH & JOHN’S ICE CREAM

Multiple locations, joshandjohns.com

There’s always a reason for a sweet treat from Josh & Johns, even with subzero weather and snow. There’s an interesting array of flavors from which to choose. Voters said, “This is a downtown staple. We love riding our scooters to Josh & Johns in the summer,” and “The best ice cream — even a delicious vegan peanut butter chocolate flavor.”

SILVER: BJ’S VELVET FREEZ

BRONZE: RIZUTO’S ICE CREAM INC.

INDIAN

GOLD: LITTLE NEPAL

1747 S. 8th St., 719-477-6997; 4820 Flintridge Drive, 719-598-3428, lnepal.com

Since 2007 this eatery has been a winner in the Best of the Springs and this year is no exception. They do a stellar job of wowing customers with their Indian, Nepalese and Tibetan food. Voters said, “Good Indian

food with a reasonably priced buffet,” and “Authentic and tasty Indian food.”

SILVER: URBAN TANDOOR

BRONZE: SHRI GANESH

IRISH

GOLD: JACK QUINN’S IRISH PUB AND RESTAURANT jackquinnspub.com

Not your average pub. Jack Quinn’s serves up traditional Irish cuisine with live music and an overall authentically friendly atmosphere. Voters agree: “My go-to restaurant. Authentic decor, atmosphere, food and drinks” and “Best pub in downtown COS! Love the atmosphere. Time for Guinness, bangers and mash!”

SILVER: ABBY’S IRISH PUB

BRONZE: ALCHEMY

ITALIAN

GOLD: PARAVICINI’S ITALIAN BISTRO 2802 W. Colorado Ave., 719-471-8200, paravicinis.com

Fresh, authentic Italian cuisine. Meals are served up family style with handmade sauces. Voters said: “The gold standard for Italian food — excellent!” and “Best Italian food we can find outside of Jersey.”

SILVER: BIAGGI’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO

BRONZE: RED GRAVY

JAMAICAN

GOLD: RASTA PASTA

405 N. Tejon St., 719-481-6888, realrastapasta.com

Get the best of both worlds with Italian-Jamaican fusion dishes. In addition to serving up Caribbean pasta, the restaurant also strives to be eco-friendly and support other local businesses. Voters said: “This is a stable stop whenever I’m playing tour guide when family comes to visit.” and “Tortellini Jamaica Mon is my favorite! Who would know that pineapples, bananas and grapes in a pasta dish would be so good.”

SILVER: SPICE ISLAND GRILL (CLOSED)

BRONZE: HIGH GRADE FOODS JAMAICAN RESTAURANT AND BAR

JAPANESE

GOLD: AI SUSHI & GRILL

4655 Centennial Blvd., 719-266-5858, aisushiandgrill.com

Sushi, hibachi, tempura, rice bowls and ramen, oh, my! A staple for a range of Japanese dishes. Voters rave:“AI has been a favorite place for family birthdays, anniversaries, Mother’s Day, etc. So, so good!” and “Awesome sushi and hibachi! I love that they have gluten-free options as well!”

SILVER: JUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT

BRONZE: SUSHI ATO

JUICE BAR

GOLD: OLA JUICE BAR

27 E. Kiowa St., 719-633-3111, olajuicebar.com

Thoughtful ingredients and nutrient-dense menu options. From acai bowls to smoothies, Ola Juice Bar serves it fresh. Voters said: ”Tastes good.”

SILVER: NEKTER JUICE BAR

BRONZE: QWENCH JUICE BAR

KOMBUCHA

GOLD: SPRINGS CULTURE KOMBUCHA

3105 N. Cascade Ave No. 204, 719-210-8844,springsculture.com

Stop by for this staple health drink at Springs Culture. You can even bring your own bottle to fill up at the brew space! Voters said: “Bestbooch around! Janie makes

wonderful flavors with great care!” and “Awesome flavors and great tasting.”

SILVER: NEKTR KOMBUCHA

KOREAN

GOLD: KOREAN GARDEN

7715 Dublin Blvd. No. 170, 719-900-7858, koreangardennorth.com

Authentic Korean food, including spicy bulgogi, kimchijigae andbibimbop. Voters said:“You get so much food for the price and it’s amazing Korean food. The bibimbap is phenomenal.” and “Good Korean Food!”

SILVER: TONGTONG

BRONZE: SAN CHANG HOUSE

LOCAL BEER

GOLD: HAZY IPA – GOAT PATCH

727 N. Cascade Ave. No. 123, 719-471-4628, goatpatchbrewing.com

Goat Patch brews this yellow IPA with large quantities of aromatic hops. Voters said:“My wife’s go-to Hazy while in the springs.” and “Best beer around! Have two!”

SILVER: LAUGHING LAB – BRISTOL BREWING CO.

BRONZE: STICKY PAWS – FH BEERWORKS

LUNCH SPECIAL

GOLD: LITTLE NEPAL: INDIAN RESTAURANT AND BAR

1747 S. 8th St., 719-477-6997, lnepal.com

Since opening in 2007, Little Nepal has appeared in “Best of the Springs.” The goal: provide the best Indian/ Nepalese/Tibetan food in town. Voters said: “Love their Samosas and curries! When we’re in the mood for Indian food, this is our spot!” and “Delicious food and warm, welcoming staff!”

SILVER: ARLENE’S BEANS

BRONZE: CAPTAIN D’S

MARGARITA

GOLD: THE LOOP

965 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 719-685-9344, theloopatmanitou.com

Known for serving the “world’s largest margarita,” The Loop serves up Mexican plates to be washed down with their award-winningmargs. Voters laud: “Those margaritas! No words necessary.” and “I bring all my out of state visitors to the Loop, it’s a fun restaurant with amazing minichimis and giant margaritas, there is no better introduction to Colorado.”

SILVER: FUZZY’S TACO SHOP

BRONZE: CRYSTAL PARK CANTINA

MEXICAN

GOLD: CRYSTAL PARK CANTINA

178 Crystal Park Road, Manitou Springs, 719-685-5999, crystalparkcantina.com

This family-owned restaurant prepares Mexican cuisine using home-style recipes — big on fresh ingredients. Voters said: “Simply delicious Mexican cuisine and potent margaritas. Crystal Park passes the flavor test big time.” and “Where we go when friends come to town. Unique setting on the hillside, beautiful rocks around, and delicious food.”

SILVER: HACIENDA COLORADO

BRONZE: VAQUEROS MEXICAN RESTAURANT & TAQUERIA

MIDDLE EASTERN/GREEK

GOLD: JAKE AND TELLY’S GREEK TAVERNA

2616 Colorado Ave. No. 24, 719-633-0406, jakeandtellys.com

Fresh Greek cuisine accompanied by a variety of Mediterranean wine offerings. Voters rave: “Opa! Delicious food, clean and good atmosphere” and “Opa! Best Greek in town! Live everything on the menu and free shot of ouzo!”

SILVER: HEART OF JERUSALEM CAFE

BRONZE: CASPIAN CAFE

NEW RESTAURANT FRANCHISED (OPENED IN 2022)

GOLD: THE OLD SPAGHETTI FACTORY

3101 New Center Point, 719-387-0799, osf.com

Three course meals with every entrée — start off with some bread or soup, then head to the main course and finish off with spumoni or vanilla ice cream.

SILVER: WHATABURGER

BRONZE: WIENERSCHNITZEL

NEW RESTAURANT NON-FRANCHISED (OPENED IN 2021–2022)

GOLD: MILAGRO’S CONCINA MEXICANA

7455 N. Academy Blvd., 719-598-1030, milagroscocinamx.com

Traditional meets contemporary Mexican cuisine. Check out the largest collection of tequila and mezcal in town. Voters said: “Wonderful upscale, authentic Mexican food, with an ambiance that is not pretentious.” and “Instantly became my favorite restaurant in Colorado Springs. Traditional Mexican with just the right amount of creative twist.”

SILVER: MOUNTAIN VIEW CAFE AND CATERING

BRONZE: VINE & WHEEL

PANCAKES

GOLD: URBAN EGG

28B S. Tejon St., 719-471-2311, urbaneggeatery.com

Gourmet pancakes and plain ol’ flapjacks. American breakfast galore. Voters said: “Such great menu options, from sweet, to savory, to healthy!” and “There’s a reason there is always a crazy wait for this place on weekends. There’s something for everyone on the menu, even if you’re not a breakfast person. I love me some pancakes.”

SILVER: SNOOZE, AN A.M. EATERY

BRONZE: OMELETTE PARLOR

PASTA

GOLD: PARAVICINI’S ITALIAN BISTRO 2802 W. Colorado Ave., 719-471-8200, paravicinis.com

Fresh, authentic Italian cuisine. Meals are served up family style with handmade sauces. Voters said: “I love how they serve their food family style. It is the closest I have found to my own family’s food.” and “Delicious Italian cuisine made with love.”

SILVER: RED GRAVY

BRONZE: LA BELLA VITA RISTORANTE ITALIANO

PATIO/AL FRESCO

GOLD: EDELWEISS GERMAN RESTAURANT 34 E. Ramona Ave., 719-633-2220, edelweissrest.com

Family-owned German restaurant offering bratwurst, strudels, homemade tortes andwienerschnitzels. Voters said: ”A great restaurant!! Wonderful food, divine desserts, and the best service!!” and “It’s like going back to Germany. Authentic food with a lovely ambience — our go-to for a nice night out.”

SILVER: SHUGA’S

BRONZE: PATTY JEWETT BAR AND GRILL

Tutto di mare from Paravicini’s Italian Bistro. — The Gazette file.

PIZZA

GOLD: SLICE 420

2501 W. Colorado Ave No. 108, 719-368-6977, slice420.com

New York style pizza in Colorado Springs. Voters confirm: “Every time I eat here I feel like I am back in NYC.” and “If you haven’t been here you are missing out. The Sophia is our favorite but none of the slices disappoint!”

SILVER: WALTER’S303 PIZZERIA AND PUBLIK HOUSE | FLYING HORSE

BRONZE: LOUIE’S PIZZA

PIZZA DELIVERY

GOLD: SLICE 420

2501 W. Colorado Ave. No. 108, 719-368-6977, slice420.com

New York-style pizza in Colorado Springs. Voters said: “The best pizza. The closest thing to NY style pizza. The crust is so crispy and the dough holds up!!” and “The quality of the ingredients they use is out of this world.”

SILVER: LOUIE’S PIZZA

BRONZE: DOMINO’S PIZZA

POKE BOWL

GOLD: TOKYO JOE’S — POWERS

5697 Barnes Road, No. 120, 719-313-5386, tokyojoes.com

Build your own poke bowl or take a bite of some healthy Japanese treats. Voters said: “Love their chicken bowls! The sauces are delicious.” and “I love going here — the food is always fresh and fast. The people working always make my day — great service.”

SILVER: PIKES POKE BOWL

BRONZE: MENYA BRIARGATE

PRIME RIB

GOLD: MACKENZIE’S CHOP HOUSE

128 S. Tejon St., 719-635-3536, mackenzieschophouse.com

Steaks, seafood and creative martinis served in a casual but elegant atmosphere. Voters said: “Hands down, the best steak I’ve had in my life!” and “Great atmosphere and good happy hour. Artichoke dip is to die for.”

SILVER: PATTY JEWETT BAR AND GRILL

BRONZE: TEXAS ROADHOUSE

PUB

GOLD: JACK QUINN’S IRISH PUB AND RESTUARANT

21 S. Tejon St., 719-385-0766, jackquinnspub.com

Not your average pub. Jack Quinn’s serves up traditional Irish cuisine with live music and an overall authentically friendly atmosphere. Voters agree:

“Perhaps the best Irish pub around; wonderful music” and “Best place for a proper pint in Colorado Springs.”

SILVER: ABBY’S IRISH PUB

BRONZE: THE PUBLIC HOUSE

Irish Breakfast at Jack Quinn’s Irish Pub & Restaurant in downtown Colorado Springs. — The Gazette file.

RAMEN

GOLD: ROOSTER’S HOUSE OF RAMEN (CLOSED)

323 N. Tejon St. No. 1223, 719-631-9006, cosramen.com

Popular pork belly bowl with fun ramen bowls and drinks to pair. Voters said: “Great food with imaginative flavors.”

SILVER: OKA RAMEN 2

BRONZE: RAMEN CHOPS NOODLE BAR

RESTAURANT FOR A FIRST DATE

GOLD: THE RABBIT HOLE

101 N. Tejon St., 719-203-5072, rabbitholedinner.com

Underground delights for a late-night. New American eats and creative cocktails. Voters said: “Best date night dinner. Staff is great and personable” “Fun place to take people. Cool vibe and atmosphere.” and “Absolutely the best option for that special occasion!”

SILVER: PARAVICINI’S ITALIAN BISTRO

BRONZE: SHUGA’S

RESTAURANT FOR AN ANNIVERSARY

GOLD: PEPPER TREE RESTAURANT

888 W. Moreno Ave., 719-471-4888, peppertreecs.com

Dine on fine cuisine with views of the downtown Colorado Springs skyline. Many dishes are uniquely prepared tableside. Voters said: “Our standard for special occasions.” and “Exquisite dining that is delicious. Service is impeccable and the food selection is divine.”

SILVER: MONA LISA FONDUE RESTAURANT

BRONZE: THE MELTING POT

RESTAURANT FOR KIDS

GOLD: FARGO’S PIZZA

2910 E. Platte Ave., 719-473-5540,fargospizza.com

Handmade pizza and salad, served in a Victorianstyle Old West setting. Voters said: “The vibe is everything! Fun family restaurant.” and “Such a fun place for families.”

SILVER: RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS AND BREWS

BRONZE: BUBBA’S 33

RESTAURANT FOR LATE NIGHT DINING

GOLD: THE RABBIT HOLE

2910 E. Platte Ave., 719-473-5540,fargospizza.com

Voters say the atmosphere of this underground “hidden gem” is unmissable. With its Alice in Wonderland theme, diners descend — down the rabbit hole if you will — to “a wonderful place to splurge for

fancy and whimsical food and drinks,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: BUBBA’S 33

BRONZE: SHUGA’S

RESTAURANT TO HAVE DINNER

GOLD: EDELWEISS GERMAN RESTAURANT

34 E. Ramona Ave., 719-633-2220, edelweissrest.com

Family-owned German restaurant offering bratwurst, strudels, homemade tortes andwienerschnitzels. Voters said: “Authentic German food, great beer and wine, beautiful patio especially on summer nights, indoor seating feels like you are part of the family.” and “Definitely a place to stop to eat for anyone visiting the Springs. The atmosphere is wonderful and their German Chocolate Cake was to die for.”

SILVER: THE MARGARITA AT PINE CREEK

BRONZE: BLACK FOREST BISTRO

RESTAURANT TO HAVE LUNCH

GOLD: THE MARIGOLD CAFE

4605 Centennial Blvd., 719-599-4776, marigoldcoloradosprings.com

French dining and fresh bakery, featuring seafood, vegetarian and even gluten-free options. Voters said: “Marigold’s is a priceless gem! From their food, to the servers and owners, it’s always been my family’s Happy Place to celebrate.” and “I love this restaurant, they have a wonderful and fresh menu and desserts that are every special.”

SILVER: RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS AND BREWS

BRONZE: PATTY JEWETT BAR AND GRILL

RESTAURANT SERVICE

GOLD: THE MARIGOLD CAFE

4605 Centennial Blvd., 719-599-4776, marigoldcoloradosprings.com

French dining and fresh bakery, featuring seafood, vegetarian and even gluten-free options. Voters said: “The croissants are worth the drive from anywhere!” and “Best desserts in town and great menu.”

SILVER: PATTY JEWETT BAR AND GRILL

BRONZE: URBAN EGG

RESTAURANT WITH A VIEW

GOLD: VIEWHOUSE COLORADO SPRINGS

7114 Campus Drive, 719-394-4137; viewhouse.com

Dining with a view. Not only does the menu boast food made from local ingredients and partnerships, the restaurant has a huge outdoor area and rooftop space. Voters said: “Very appropriately named! The

views are beautiful!” and “Great food & familyfriendly atmosphere. The best view, while eating out, in the Springs.”

SILVER: PATTY JEWETT BAR AND GRILL

BRONZE: PEPPER TREE RESTAURANT

RESTAURANT WITH BEST MILITARY DISCOUNT

GOLD: ARLENE’S BEANS

366 2nd St. Unit D, Monument, arlenesbeans.com

Mexican plates and tequila drinks. This familyowned restaurant serves up natural beans purchased from local market, no cans allowed. Voters said: “Great New Mexican food from one of the best families in the area.” and “I’m continually blown away by the tasty food I’ve gotten here!”

SILVER: CAREFREE BAR AND GRILL

BRONZE: THE FRENCH KITCHEN

RIBS

GOLD: FRONT RANGE BARBEQUE

2330 W. Colorado Ave., 719-632-2596,frbbq.com

A little taste of the South in Colorado Springs, with a full bar and live music. Voters said: “There is nothing I wouldn’t eat off this menu.” and “Great location and a staple for entertaining our out-ofstate visitors.”

SILVER: RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE AND BARBEQUE

BRONZE: BIRD DOG BARBEQUE

SALAD

GOLD: FARGO’S PIZZA

2910 E. Platte Ave., 719-473-5540, fargospizza.com

Handmade pizza and salad, served in a Victorianstyle Old West setting. Voters said: “Salad Bar, lunch specials and pastas are excellent. Perfect pizza party spot.” and “Amazingly fresh! Classic Colorado Springs experience.”

SILVER: MODERN MARKET EATERY

BRONZE: GREEN DISTRICT SALADS — BRIARGATE

SALSA

GOLD: SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL

5925 Dublin Blvd. Unit A, 719-591-6177, salsabravacolorado.com

Modern Mexican cuisine and cocktails in a relaxed setting. Voters said: “The salsa makes it worth the trip.” and “Very fresh Mexican-inspired food.”

SILVER: HACIENDA COLORADO

BRONZE: LA CASITA MEXICAN GRILL

SANDWICHES/SUBS

GOLD: COLONEL MUSTARD’S SANDWICH EMPORIUM

1412 S. 21st St., 719-203-4743, colmustardsandwich.com

Locally owned gourmet food shop and breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Voters said: “A local treasure.” and “Best sandwiches. Fun atmosphere. Great take home mustards. Good view out back. Don’t forget breakfast!”

SILVER: CHEBA HUT TOASTED SUBS

BRONZE: JERSEY MIKE’S SUBS

SEAFOOD

GOLD: BONEFISH GRILL

5102 N. Nevada Ave., 719-598-0826, bonefishgrill.com

“Bonefish Grill is our go-to restaurant for seafood,” one voter wrote of this eatery that features market-fresh fish and a voter-favorite: the Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer. “Classy restaurant with delicious food and drinks.”

SILVER: BONNY AND READ SEAFOOD

BRONZE: THE JUICY SEAFOOD

SMOOTHIE

GOLD: SMOOTHIE KING

5607 Barnes Road Suite 150, 719-203-6650; 1358 Interquest Parkway Suite 170, 719-505-7025; smoothieking.com

With a commitment to more nutritious smoothie options, Smoothie King offers a myriad of fruit, veggie and coffee blends with plenty of add-ins and other customizations. “Love a good smoothie,” one reader said.

SILVER: KEVA JUICE

BRONZE: TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFE

SOUP

GOLD: PANERA BREAD

1832 Southgate Road, 719-389-0808; 1845 Briargate Parkway, 719-266-9200; 3120 New Center Point, 719- 637-3500; 5230 N. Nevada Ave., 719-219-1200; 5985 Dublin Blvd. Suite 100, 719-900-5299; 7344 N. Academy Blvd, 719-522-1100; panerabread.com

By deeming Panera Bread as “Old Reliable,” one reader summed up dozens of comments reflecting on the restaurant’s soup and other menu options. “Everything on the menu is yummy! The best soup, salad, sandwiches.”

SILVER: SHUGA’S

BRONZE: MARIGOLD

SPORTS BAR

GOLD: BACK EAST BAR & GRILL

9475 Briar Village Point, 719-264-6161; backeastbarandgrill.com

Built on New York traditions, Back East Bar & Grill brings is more than just a good place to watch the game. “A great place to listen to live bands,” one voter wrote. Another said, “if you love a small town atmosphere, this is the place for you.”

SILVER: VIEWHOUSE COLORADO SPRINGS

BRONZE: BUBBA’S 33

STEAKHOUSE

GOLD: TEXAS ROADHOUSE

3120 N. Powers Blvd., 719-638-8050; 595 S. 8th St., 719-473-9711; texasroadhouse.com

Texas Roadhouse reigns when it comes to great steaks at great prices. “Best steaks ever,” a voter said. Another summed up another beloved restaurant favorite: “Mmmmmmmmm … rolls.”

SILVER: COWBOY STAR RESTAURANT AND BUTCHER SHOP

BRONZE: MACKENZIE’S CHOP HOUSE

SUSHI

GOLD: SUSHI ATO

12245 Voyager Parkway Suite 148, 719-694-8936; sushiato-cs.com

Many a voter’s go-to place for sushi, Sushi Ato is a full-service restaurant offering authentic Japanese cuisine and a wide variety of rolls. “The fish is always fresh and comes so beautifully,” one voter said.

SILVER: AI SUSHI & GRILL

BRONZE: DOZO SUSHI AND BAR

TACOS

GOLD: TORCHY’S TACOS

1358 Interquest Parkway, 719-235-5000; torchystacos.com

These devilishly good tacos arrived in Colorado Springs in 2021 and have quickly become a fan favorite. One voter said, “Best. Tacos. Ever. Period. No contest.” Make any taco “trashy” by adding Torchy’s famous queso and choose from a wide variety of drink options.

SILVER: MONICA’S TACO SHOP

BRONZE: FUZZY’S TACO SHOP

TAMALES

GOLD: ARLENE’S BEANS

366 2nd St., Unit D, arlenesbeans2016@gmail.com, arlenesbeans.com

A consistent and high-ranking local eatery spanning several Best of the Springs categories, Arlene’s beans is loved for its family environment, authentic Mexican cuisine and tasty margaritas, customers said. One wrote, “Such a great supporter of the community! Love the food and customer service.”

SILVER: LA CASITA MEXICAN GRILL

BRONZE: GUADALAJARA FAMILY MEXICAN RESTAURANT

TAQUERIA

GOLD: ARLENE’S BEANS

366 2nd St., Unit D, arlenesbeans2016@gmail.com; arlenesbeans.com

Taking the top prize in both the Tamales and Taqueria category, Arlene’s Beans in Monument has a little for everybody. “Arlene (and family) rock. Tasty bites always,” a reader said.

SILVER: T-BYRDS TACOS & TEQUILA

BRONZE: TLAQUEPAQUE

TEA SHOP

GOLD: GLEN EYRIE CASTLE

3820 N. 30th St., 719-634-0808, gleneyrie.org

Known by several readers as the city’s “hidden gem,” Glen Eyrie Castle offers a top-tier afternoon tea experience in a magical setting. After tea, stay a while in the 1800s castle-turned-hotel and enjoy views of local wildlife on its serene grounds. “Afternoon tea is delightful and also offers tasty snacks,” a voter said.

SILVER: YELLOW MOUNTAIN TEA HOUSE

BRONZE: THE BRITISH PANTRY AND TEA ROOM

THAI/PAD THAI

GOLD: THAI BASIL

7882 N. Academy Blvd., 719-268-1688, thaibasilcoloradosprings.com

Thai Basil is a repeat Best of the Springs winner, where patrons can find menu items such as Thai curry, rice dishes and noodle bowls. Readers complimented the dishes that are “absolutely delicious” at “very reasonable prices.”

SILVER: THAI MINT RESTAURANT

BRONZE: NARAI SIAM CUISINE

VEGAN RESTAURANT

GOLD: BURROWING OWL

1791 S. 8th St., 719-434-3864, burrowingowllounge.com

Try one of the Burrowing Owl’s variety of creative vegan dishes — maybe some mac and cheese, a bowl or nachos supreme — with plenty of drink options amid a woodsy atmosphere. “Vegan cuisine at its best,” one voter said. From another: “The staff here is the best, we feel like we’re visiting friends when we go.”

SILVER: SANTANA’S VEGAN GRILL

BRONZE: ARLENE’S BEANS

VEGETARIAN

GOLD: ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFE

26 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 719-685-1430, adamsmountaincafe.com

This Manitou Springs cafe offers an eclectic menu of vegetarian and vegan options as vibrant as the community it serves. Comments included: “Always delicious and healthful food served with expertise,” and “Homey and delicious with a focus on sustainability.”

SILVER: SANTANA’S VEGAN GRILL

BRONZE: ARLENE’S BEANS

VIETNAMESE

GOLD: SAIGON CAFE

20 E. Colorado Ave., 719-633-2888; coloradosaigoncafe.com

Saigon Cafe is once again a Best of the Springs winner, with many voters deeming the downtown spot a go-to for noodle bowls. From one reader: “The combination noodle bowl always hits the spot ... love the food!” Another said, “Always great food and attention to detail.”

SILVER: PHO-NOMEMAL

BRONZE: PHO LUU

WHISKEY BAR

GOLD: AXE AND THE OAK WHISKEY HOUSE

1604 S. Cascade Ave., Suite 80, 719-660-1624, axeandtheoakdistillery.com

Enjoy an old fashioned or choose from a range of other classics made with skill among wood furnishings and an overall cozy environment. “The whiskey is delicious,” one reader said. “The setting is perfect. The atmosphere is perfect. And they have great taste in music!”

SILVER: CORK & CASK

BRONZE: DISTRICT ELLEVEN

WINE BAR

GOLD: WINES OF COLORADO

8045 W. U.S. 24, Cascade, 719-684-0900

Nestled at the base of Pikes Peak, visitors can wine and dine on the back patio while enjoying the calm of the pines and a nearby creek. “Beautiful creekside dining, delicious bar drinks, broad menu but delightfully yummy food,” one fan said. Another believes the setting makes for “one of the best summertime experiences in the overall Springs area.”

SILVER: UVA WINE BAR

BRONZE: CORK & CASK

WINE LIST

GOLD: WINES OF COLORADO

8045 W. U.S. 24, Cascade, 719-684-0900

Along with a quintessential mountain feel and creekside patio dining, Wines of Colorado offers a standout wine menu with plenty of food and other beverage options. “Awesome menu of Colorado wines, beers, etc.,” one reader said. “Friendly service (where) you can still feel like you live in a small town.”

SILVER: UVA WINE BAR

BRONZE: BLACK FOREST BISTRO

WINERY

GOLD: ANTELOPE RIDGE MEAD

3355 N. Academy Blvd., 719-358-9629

Antelope Ridge Mead took first prize this year as it offers a colorful and creative atmosphere and plenty of options. From one customer: “I love this place because the service is genuine, it’s a kid friendly establishment and the mead is so delicious! There are so many flavor options.”

SILVER: DREKAR MEADERY

BRONZE: SWEET ELEPHANT

Adam’s Mountain Cafe offers an eclectic menu of vegetarian and vegan options. — The Gazette file.

hen you need it, you need it. True of financial advice, true of brake repair, true of petsitting, definitely. Maybe you are the ultimate renaissance woman or DIY guy — or maybe you are like the rest of us.

Professionalism thrives in Colorado Springs, with its enterprising spirit and long history of successful businesses. Get a quote, or three, on whatever task you require. Here, there is an expert for practically every need.

Gold Winner, GFL, hard at work removing waste from our community. — The Gazette, Christian Murdock

ACCOUNTING FIRM

GOLD: YOUR TAXLADY

401 Windchime Place, 719-249-1241, taxladyllc.com

A multi-year Best of the Springs winner that offers “quick and accurate” tax services, according to one voter. “They do a fabulous job with our taxes getting the most back as possible!” another wrote.

SILVER: NELSON & CO. PC

BRONZE: COLDWELL BANKER BEYOND

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

GOLD: OLSON PLUMBING & HEATING CO. 2500 Centennial Blvd., 719-635-3563, olsonph.com

Voters commended this long-standing local company on its reliability, professionalism and expertise. “I’ve used them for several jobs and there is no one else I would consider,” one voter wrote of the multi-year Best of the Springs winner.

SILVER: HOME HEATING SERVICE INC.

BRONZE: SOCO HEATING AND COOLING

AUTO INSURANCE COMPANY

GOLD: USAA FINANCIAL CENTER 1855 Telstar Drive, 719-244-9041, usaa.com

“Superb” customer service is a standout comment among voters, who also have high praise for USAA products and services. “A member for over 54 years. That says it all,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: STATE FARM

BRONZE: AAA COLORADO SPRINGS

BANK/CREDIT UNION

GOLD: ENT CREDIT UNION ent.com

A multi-year Best of the Springs winner, Ent received voter praise for great customer service and low fees. “Best bank I’ve had. I’ll never switch,” one voter wrote. “They are SO nice,” another wrote.

SILVER: USAA FINANCIAL CENTER

BRONZE: NAVY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Created in 1957, Ent Credit Union serves more than 430,000 members across 14 counties along the Front Range.

— Photo by Jerilee Bennet

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST OF THE SPRINGS

You deserve to feel cool and cozy in your home all year round. So we provide friendly, expert care that always puts your comfort first.

BODY SHOP

GOLD: WILLIAMS BODY & PAINT 6210 Lane Shore Court, 719-638-4849, williamsbodypaint.com

“They do a great job, I would highly recommend them,” said one voter for Williams Body & Paint, which does “great repair and paint” for cars and trucks.

SILVER: KARLE COACHWORK

BRONZE: STATUS SYMBOL AUTO BODY

CAR WASH

GOLD: QUICK QUACK CAR WASH dontdrivedirty.com

Voters call this multi-year Best of the Springs winner a “No. 1 spot,” with its convenient locations, monthly club membership and light show. “Love this place! Always professional, wash job is great and it’s actually fun to get your car washed!” one voter wrote.

SILVER: MISTER CAR WASH

BRONZE: FREEDOM EXPRESS CAR WASH

Jacob Edwards sprays a pre-cleaner as he directs a vehicle inside Quick Quack Car Wash in northeast Colorado Springs. — The Gazette file.

2023 WINNER FOR

CARPET INSTALLATION

GOLD: O’BRIENS CARPET ONE FLOOR & HOME

111 E. Garden of the Gods Rd., 719-203-2917; 6155 N. Academy Blvd., 719-425-8572, obrienscarpetone.com

Voters rave about the selection and “superb attention to detail” from this flooring company. “We visited other flooring stores, but always come back here for selection, price, and service!” one voter wrote.

SILVER: GUY’S FLOOR SERVICE INC.

BRONZE: CARPET EXCHANGE

CLEANING COMPANY

GOLD: BELIEVE THAT CARPETS & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING, LLC 6050 Stetson Hills Blvd. Suite 153, 719-266-2777, believethatcarpetsupholstery.com

This company has built trust with their clients through quality carpet cleaning and repair, upholstery cleaning, and tile and grout cleaning services. The results keep customers coming back.

SILVER: BEE-KLEEN PROFESSIONAL CARPET CLEANING & MORE BRONZE: CLEAN AND PRISTINE COLORADO

COMPUTER REPAIR/IT SERVICES

GOLD: THE MAC CORNER 2950 Janitell Road Suite 113, 719-368-2114, themaccorner.com

This multi-year Best of the Springs winner offers repairs for Apple products with “wonderful results every time” since opening its retail location over 10 years ago. One voter said the shop has “excellent, quality service from technicians we trust.”

SILVER: MENOZZI IT SOLUTIONS

BRONZE: SIMPLEWORKS

CONTRACTORS — COMMERCIAL

GOLD: BRYAN CONSTRUCTION, INC.

5475 Tech Center Drive Suite 300, 719-632-5355, bryanconstruction.com

On time and under budget delivery for projects including commercial builds and renovations keeps Bryan Construction customers happy. “I can’t say enough about the team. Your folks truly made us feel like partners in the process,” read one testimonial on their website.

SILVER: OLSON PLUMBING & HEATING CO.

BRONZE: GE JOHNSON CONSTRUCTION COMPANY INC.

CONTRACTORS — RESIDENTIAL

GOLD: ALPINE CONTRACTING

5482 Tomah Drive, 719-574-9676, alpine-contracting.com

Voters say this local, reliable general contractor does quality work with attention to detail on every project in your home. “Work is quality and completed on time! I trust them completely,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: PITTMAN CONSTRUCTION

BRONZE: HOMEFIX

CUSTOM HOME BUILDER

GOLD: VANTAGE HOMES

9540 Federal Drive, Suite 100, 719-534-0984, vantagehomescolorado.com

With over 40 years of service in the Pikes Peak region, Vantage Homes builds quality-focused homes from conception to delivery, according to the website. “Great folks who build beautiful homes!” one voter wrote.

SILVER: CALTON HOMES LLC

BRONZE: CLASSIC HOMES

DAY SPA

GOLD: MATEO’S SALON & DAY SPA

5919 Delmonico Drive, 719-266-9295, mateosdayspa.com

A regular Best of the Springs winner, Mateo’s, or what one voter called the “best of the best,” is described as beautiful and relaxing. “The best spa I’ve been to! They will always have my business!” another voter wrote.

SILVER: VEDA SALON & SPA

BRONZE: LUNA FLOAT SPA

DOG TRAINER

GOLD: ALL BREED RESCUE & TRAINING

410½ E. Fillmore St., 719-264-6460, haveanicedog.org

This “top-notch” nonprofit has been rescuing, rehabilitating and finding forever families for “unadoptable” dogs facing euthanasia since 1994, according to their website. “The trainers are great with all temperaments of dogs and have taught me how to provide the best home for my dogs,” wrote one voter of the multiyear Best of the Springs winner.

SILVER: UNDER THE SUN DOG TRAINING AND DAYCARE

BRONZE: SIT MEANS SIT DOG TRAINING COLORADO SPRINGS

DRY CLEANERS

GOLD: EUROPEAN CLEANERS

802 Arcturus Drive, 719-473-7476; 3651 Star Ranch Road, 719-576-0363, eurodrycleaning.com

A multi-year Best of the Springs winner, European Cleaners has been handling your dry cleaning, laundry, dirty household linens and more since 1984. The friendly and professional service keeps customers coming back.

SILVER: SUPER QUALITY CLEANERS

BRONZE: PRESSED4TIME

Ryuu was stylin’ in his goggles at the 9th annual Doggie Dash for All Breeds Rescue & Training fundraising 5K Walk/Run.

— Photo by Jerilee Bennett

Our firm is so grateful to be able to serve in this community. If you’ve been injured, please call today for a FREE CONSULTATION. We promise to be compassionate about your injuries, provide an honest assessment of your case, and show the strength needed to fight and win your case.

ELECTRICIAN

GOLD: WIRENUT HOME SERVICES

6395 E. Platte Ave., 719-465-5902, thewirenut.com

Voters say this family-owned company is the place to go for “honest, fast” home services. “Best service. Great techs. Fun commercials. They do nearly everything home service related,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: APACHE ELECTRIC & MAINTENANCE INC.

BRONZE: NO SHOCKS ELECTRIC

EVENT DJ

GOLD: RANDY RODRIGUEZ ENTERTAINMENT

5302 Kissing Camels Drive Suite 1017, 719-310-9290, randysinatra.com

A versatile entertainer with a proven track record. Randy Rodriguez’s website says it all, and voters agree. This frequent Best of the Springs winner puts on “excellent” events. “He really knows how to make an occasion a truly special event,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: MACADOE PRESSPLAYDOE

BRONZE: HEPS DJ & PHOTO BOOTH

FINANCIAL PLANNER

GOLD: 56 CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD.

1465 Kelly Johnson Blvd. Suite 320, 719-418-3773, 56capitalpartners.com

Voters say 56 Capital Partners is the place to go for investment advice in Colorado Springs. “Great company, very professional, very ethical,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: ADVENIRE WEALTH MANAGEMENT

BRONZE: ROBERT EDGIN

FUNERAL SERVICES & CEMETERIES

GOLD: THE SPRINGS FUNERAL SERVICES

3115 E. Platte Ave., 719-207-8811; 6575 Oakwood Blvd., 719-207-8606, tsfs.co

The Springs Funeral Services is described by voters as a compassionate, friendly and beautiful option for saying goodbye to your loved ones. “Very happy with them … did a magnificent job during a tough time!” one voter wrote.

SILVER: SWAN-LAW FUNERAL DIRECTORS

BRONZE: CAPPADONA FUNERAL HOME

GARAGE DOOR CO.

GOLD: OVERHEAD DOOR COMPANY OF COLORADO SPRINGS

1205 Ford Street, 719-596-2171, overheaddoorcoloradosprings.com

The prompt, quality service from Overhead Door Co. has voters raving. “Always quick to help us when needed,” one voter wrote. “Super service!” another said.

Ryan Malnar

Voted Best Lawyer Voted

SILVER: MOUNTAIN FOX GARAGE DOORS

BRONZE: TRI-LAKES GARAGE DOORS

GUTTERS

GOLD: HOMEFIX

5975 N. Academy Blvd. Suite 208, 719-749-1788, homefixcos.com

Voters say this home remodeling, handyman repair and roofing company is “wonderful” to work with. One said HOMEfix is professional, knowledgeable, dependable and honest. “The only place to get anything done for your house,” another voter wrote.

SILVER (TIE): BEST BUY GUTTER AND SAFE HAVEN GUTTERS

HAIR SALON

GOLD: LIL RAINBOW BARBER LLC

4738 Barnes Road, 719-452-1443, lilrainbowbarber.com

This frequent Best of the Springs winner is run by an over-10-year veteran of doing hair, Kelly, who specializes in fashion colors. “Kelly has done an fabulous job for months at keeping my hair looking absolutely amazing,” according

to one testimonial on the Lil Rainbow barber website.

SILVER: TOP KNOT BEAUTY LOUNGE

BRONZE: VEDA SALON & SPA

HAIRCUT

GOLD: PROFORM CUT & SHAVE PLLC 4738 Barnes Road, 719-351-7626, proformbarber.com

This local barber offers years of experience and expert insight into your next haircut in Colorado Springs. “Best mullet-cutting experience around!” one voter wrote.

SILVER: THE CAVERN MEN’S BARBER LOUNGE

BRONZE: SUNDAY BARBER CO.

HOME BUILDER

GOLD: CLASSIC HOMES 3575 Tutt Blvd., 719-888-3363, classichomes.com

A regular Best of the Springs winner, Classic Homes has happy customers among voters, who praise the business for its quality. “We have owned three Classic Homes over the last 20 years. Great work! We have loved them all!” one voter wrote.

SILVER: CHALLENGER HOMES

BRONZE: COVINGTON HOMES

HOME DEVELOPER

GOLD: CLASSIC HOMES

3575 Tutt Blvd., 719-888-3363, classichomes.com

Building and developing homes since 1989, Classic Homes is recognized by voters as a quality local business. “These guys are the best show in town! There is a reason that they are rated the best. Quality homes, incredible communities ... year after year!” one voter wrote of the multi-year and multi-category winner.

SILVER: CHALLENGER HOMES

BRONZE: OAKWOOD HOMES

HOME INSURANCE

GOLD: USAA usaa.com

“I count on them and trust them with my insurance needs,” one voter wrote of this frequent Best of the Springs winner’s dependability. Voters said the longtime insurance group is a “mainstay” for generations, in part due to their “great customer support.”

SILVER: STATE FARM

BRONZE: MAIN STREET INSURANCE — PATRICK MURAKAMI AGENCY

HOUSE PAINTERS

GOLD: AMC PAINTING 3923 Maizeland Road, 719-574-3018, amcpainting.com

This “above and beyond” painting company has voter’s hearts for professional work and helpful customer service. “Affordable pricing and always happy to help if there is an issue. We’ve used them multiple times!!” one voter wrote.

SILVER: HERITAGE PAINTING INC.

BRONZE: ACROSS COLORADO RESTORATION

HUMAN RESOURCES SERVICES

GOLD: NORTHEND NOTARY SERVICES LLC 719-440-4843, northendnotaryservices.com Northend Notary Services offers a variety of quality services in southern Colorado, including loan signing, notarizations and life planning. “Tiffany was very knowledgeable and highly professional,” according to one testimonial on the company’s website.

SILVER: VIDA HR

BRONZE: HR BRANCHES

JUNK REMOVAL

GOLD: COLORADO JUNK REMOVAL 3064 Loot Drive, 719-249-1717, coloradojunkremoval.com

Colorado Junk Removal customers call the company efficient, prompt, friendly and cost-effective. “Best in the junk removal space!” one voter wrote. “They do a great job and are very friendly and easy to work with!” another wrote.

SILVER: DUMPSTOR OF COLORADO SPRINGS

BRONZE: BIN THERE DUMP THAT

LANDSCAPING SERVICES

GOLD: FISK LAWNSCAPES

7135 Templeton Gap Road, 719-495-6300, fisklawnscapes.com

The “awesome” work of Fisk Lawnscapes goes into landscaping both residential and commercial properties. “Dependable, professional and quality landscaping,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: PIKES PEAK FORESTRY & CONSTRUCTION

BRONZE: FREEDOMSCAPE LLC

LAW FIRM

GOLD: STINAR ZENDEJAS BURRELL & WILHELMI PLLC

121 E. Vermijo Ave. Suite 200, 719-635-4200, coloradolawgroup.com

A multi-year Best of the Springs winner, this law firm is committed to serving individuals and companies out of the Colorado Springs area. “These attorneys do a wonderful job, down to earth and kind,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: THE LAW OFFICE OF ANDREW BRYANT BRONZE (TIE): MALNAR INJURY LAW AND MCDIVITT LAW FIRM

LAWYER

GOLD: ANDREW BRYANT 805 S. Cascade Ave., 719-634-7353, andrewbryantlaw.com

Andrew Bryant gets the job done for his clients, a testament to his multi-year win in the lawyer category for Best of the Springs. “From our first phone conversation Andrew assured me he could handle my case. His service was excellent,” according to one testimonial on his website.

SILVER: RYAN D. MALNAR

BRONZE: LAW OFFICE OF JEREMY LOEW

MECHANIC/AUTO REPAIR

GOLD: HONEST ACCURATE AUTO SERVICE

426 Nevada Mesa View, 719-598-6306; 3905 Tutt Blvd., 719-426-2698, honestaccurateauto.com

A part of the community for more than 15 years, voters found services to be the hallmark of “good old-fashioned hospitality and professionalism” where “kindness and concern never stops.”

SILVER: CHRISTIAN BROTHERS AUTOMOTIVE BRONZE: MIKEY’S TOTAL CAR CARE

MORTGAGE COMPANY

GOLD: AMERICAN PACIFIC MORTGAGE – CHRIS HODGES NMLS 1146098

13511 Northgate Estates Drive, Suite 200, 719-9242188, apmortgage.com/chris-hodges

For voters, Hodges was the “best in town” not only because he is “helpful” but a because of his depth of knowledge.

SILVER: SYNERGY ONE LENDING BRONZE: ZENITH HOME LOANS

MOVERS

GOLD: TWO MEN AND A TRUCK 3220 Fillmore Ridge Heights, 719-602-5735, twomenandatruck.com/movers/co/colorado-springs

The local franchise, which started in 1993, strives to have affordable pricing and customer service worth writing home about. Some voters touted their efficiency. “Sure helped my family during a stressful time when they had to move quickly and get into another home,” one voter wrote. “Employees were very helpful in moving boxes and furniture without damages to anything.”

SILVER: COLLEGE HUNKS HAULING

JUNK & MOVING

BRONZE: 5 STAR MOVING & STORAGE

NAIL SALON

GOLD: VEDA SALON & SPA

7443 North Academy Blvd., 719-314-1480; 5182 N. Nevada Ave., 719-265-5660; 100 E. Cheyenne Road, 719-570-8332, coloradoveda.com

Veda, Sanskrit for knowledge and wisdom, lives up to its name with its depth of beauty expertise and staff’s talent.

SILVER: BEAUTY BAR

BRONZE: HELEN’S NAILS

NEW HOME COMMUNITY

GOLD: FLYING HORSE

1880 Flying Horse Club Drive, 719-886-4800, flyinghorsecolorado.com

Located east of Interstate 25 near the North Gate Boulevard exit, Flying Horse includes million-dollar homes with views of the front range and a resort-style clubhouse. “Beautifully planned, impeccably landscaped and clean community,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: MERIDIAN RANCH

BRONZE: BANNING LEWIS RANCH

A beautiful horse statue stands in one of the roundabouts at Flying Horse, the Tuscany-styled subdivision, in northern Colorado Springs.

— Photo by Jerilee Bennett

PATIO/DECKS

GOLD (TIE): NEW CREATION DECKS, OAK LEAF CONSTRUCTION, LLC

630 W. Vermijo Ave., 719-229-3650, newcreationdecks.com

1907 Van Diest Road, 719-285-3194, oakleafcos.com

New Creation Decks has more than 20 years of local experience building decks with eco-friendly materials that voters know from their customer service and quality work. Also winning gold, Oak Leaf Construction has over 45 years of experience in the business of designing decks, painting and installing doors, among other services, with staff who voters called helpful and skilled.

BRONZE: UPRIGHT OUTDOOR LIVING

PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY

GOLD: WARRIOR INJURY LAW

1902 W. Colorado Ave., 719-300-1100; 3455 Briargate Blvd., 719-300-1100, warrior.law

Earning millions in settlements, Warrior Injury Law has represented thousands of clients in its eight years, which one voter recognized as helpful.

SILVER: MCDIVITT LAW FIRM

BRONZE: LAW OFFICE OF JEREMY LOEW

PET BOARDING & DAYCARE

GOLD: CAMP BOW WOW

4295 North Park Drive, 719-260-9247; 1075 Ford Street Unit 120, 719-573-9247 campbowwow.com

Featuring doggie daycare and pet boarding, Camp Bow Wow offers play yards and live webcams, among other amenities, for your cuddly friend. Voters emphasized they trust Camp Bow Wow with their pets. “I won’t leave my babies anywhere else,” one voter said.

SILVER: UNDER THE SUN DOG TRAINING AND DAYCARE

BRONZE: SUNRISE KENNELS

PET GROOMER

GOLD: WAG N WASH

Multiple locations, wagnwash.com

Wag N Wash gives customers a selection of pet supplies as well as dog grooming. Voters lauded various locations noting they offered an array of pet treats, food, care tools and services. “Great business! The staff is always so friendly, and my dog is very comfortable when I bring him here compared to other groomers,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: SUNRISE KENNELS

BRONZE: STUBBY’S DOG WASH AND GROOMING SALON

PET RESCUE

GOLD: NATIONAL MILL DOG RESCUE

5335 JD Johnson Road, 719-683-3334, nmdr.org

Founded in 2007, this nonprofit aims to rehabilitate and rehome dogs rescued from the commercial breeding industry through adoptions while simultaneously educating the public. “A wonderful organization,” one voter wrote. “Absolutely professional and just all-around THE BEST.”

SILVER: HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION

BRONZE: ALL BREED RESCUE & TRAINING

PET SITTING & DOG WALKING

GOLD: PLAYTIME PET SITTERS AND DOG WALKERS OF COLORADO SPRINGS

2137 N Academy Blvd., 719-475-7297, playtimepetsitters.com

This multi-award-winning business, run and owned since 1997 offers customized pet sitting and dog walking. “These folks are the best in Town! Hands Down!” one voter wrote. “There is no one else that we would trust to take care of our fur babies. Consistently the best!”

SILVER: HAPPY CATS HAVEN

BRONZE: ALISHA’S PET PLAYCATIONS

A National Mill Dog Rescue dog takes a lift while marching during the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. — Photo by Christian Murdock

PLACE TO GET PIERCED

GOLD: THE HIVE BODY PIERCING & FINE JEWELRY

24 E Bijou St., 719-344-4545, thehivepiercing.square.site

This downtown piercing-only shop operates with skilled piercers and quality jewelry. The Hive aims to serve the community with clean and efficient services. “Most professional and knowledgeable piercers in town,” a voter wrote.

SILVER: THE HOLEY GRAIL TATTOOING AND EXQUISITE BODY PIERCING

BRONZE: SELF MADE TATTOO

PLUMBER

GOLD: OLSON PLUMBING & HEATING CO.

2500 Centennial Blvd., 719-635-3563, olsonph.com

Touting its work on some of the region’s most distinct landmarks, Olson strives to give prompt and affordable services both residentially and commercially. Olson’s over 100-year presence in the city is why some voters said they’ve been using them for decades. “They are expert in their tasks and super friendly,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: BILL’S PLUMBING & DRAIN SERVICE

BRONZE: WIRENUT HOME SERVICES

PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER

GOLD: TINA JOINER PHOTOGRAPHY

8720 Skip Stone Point, 719-964-0168, tinajoinerphotography.com

For 10 years Tina Joiner has focused on wedding photography, capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments with attention to detail. “Not only does she take great photos,” one voter wrote. “She is fun, friendly and organized.”

SILVER: MANDY PENN PHOTOGRAPHY

BRONZE: LAFAYE PHOTOGRAPHY

PRODUCTION HOME BUILDER

GOLD: CLASSIC HOMES

2138 Flying Horse Club Drive, 719-888-3363, classichomes.com

Locally owned and driving for excellence, Classic Homes’ mission is to build the best homes at the best prices. Voters noted the beautiful layout and design of homes as well as quality customer service. “Still VERY HAPPY with my Classic Home purchased in 1994!” one voter wrote.

SILVER: OAKWOOD HOMES

BRONZE: CHALLENGER HOMES

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY

GOLD: GALVAN & GARDNER

REAL ESTATE GROUP INC. 913 S. 8th St., 719-284-4334, galvangardnerrealestategroup.com

Galvan & Gardner Real Estate Group Inc. aids landlords in managing properties, help buyers find the best value, finds tenants safe housing and helps sellers sell at an optimal price.

SILVER: BIJOU PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

BRONZE: KENNEY & COMPANY

REAL ESTATE OFFICE — FRANCHISED

GOLD: COLDWELL BANKER BEYOND

2702 W Colorado Ave. Suite A, 719-577-4300, cbbeyond.com

Coldwell Banker Beyond seeks to provide education and help and focuses on clients’ needs in a home sale. “My absolute favorite!” one voter wrote.

SILVER: EXIT REALTY MOUNTAIN VIEW

BRONZE: RE/MAX REAL ESTATE GROUP

REAL ESTATE OFFICE — INDEPENDENT

GOLD: GALVAN & GARDNER

REAL ESTATE GROUP INC.

913 S. 8th St., 719-284-4334, galvangardnerrealestategroup.com

Galvan & Gardner Real Estate Group aids landlords in managing properties, help buyers find the best value, find tenants safe housing, and helps sellers sell at an optimal price.

SILVER: THE CUTTING EDGE, REALTORS

BRONZE: THE PLATINUM GROUP, REALTORS

REAL ESTATE RELOCATION

GOLD: PCS BY VETS REAL ESTATE TEAM

913 South 8th St., 719-960-6808, pcsbyvets.com

A locally owned business designed to help VA and military members relocate. “Sold my house fast for the amount I wanted,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: THE O’BRIEN HOME TEAM AT KELLER WILLIAMS FREEDOM

BRONZE: THE PLATINUM GROUP, REALTORS

REALTOR

GOLD: JESSICA ALA

913 S. 8th St., 719-900-2770, galvanandgardner.com/ agent/jessica-ala’

Ala is a co-lead and Realtor and broker associate at Galvan & Gardner Real Estate Group Inc.

SILVER: AMY KUNCE-MARTINEZ, THE CUTTING EDGE

BRONZE: BAYLEE CARTER, COLDWELL BANKER BEYOND

RESIDENTIAL REMODELING

GOLD: ALPINE CONTRACTING 5482 Tomah Drive, 719-574-9676, alpine-contracting.com

Alpine Contracting tackles remodel projects from fireplaces to outdoor kitchens and everything in between. “This is the best reliable remodeling/repair company,” one voter wrote. “Work is quality and completed on time! I trust them completely.”

SILVER: HOMEFIX

BRONZE: HOLLOWAY CUSTOMS LLC

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

GOLD: MORNINGSTAR ASSISTED LIVING

5355 Centennial Blvd., 719-220-3808; 2450 Lower Gold Camp Rd., 719-419-5821 morningstarseniorliving.com

MorningStar’s senior living features high-end amenities and wellness programs and offers specialized memory care for residents. “I was impressed at visiting a patient here,” one voter wrote. “Very clean and a place that has adequate staff for patients.”

SILVER: THE INN AT GARDEN PLAZA

BRONZE: REGENCY TOWERS

ROOFING

GOLD: TRITON ROOFING

5170 N Union Blvd., 719-322-3673, tritonroofing.com

Triton Roofing’s goal is 100% customer satisfaction on all projects from commercial to residential roofing. “Great caring, ethical, professional company,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: OLD WORLD ROOFING

BRONZE: STORM GUARD

ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION OF COLORADO SPRINGS

SECURITY COMPANY

GOLD: BAKER & KING SECURITY SERVICES 19 N. Tejon St., 719-358-1458, bakerandkingsecurity.com

Founded in 2014, this veteran-owned business provides services from alarm systems to uniformed armed guards for local establishments and companies.

SILVER: BEX SECURITY

BRONZE: DAY LOCKS LLC

SPECIAL EVENT CATERING

GOLD: PICNIC BASKET CATERING COLLECTIVE

1701 S. 8th St., 719-635-0200, pbcatering.com

In operation since 1989, the company incorporates three brands or “flavors” of catering including casual contemporary cuisine, Santa Maria barbecue and custom chef catering. “They do a great job on events — have used them on many occasions and I have never been disappointed,” a voter wrote.

SILVER: SUMMIT CATERING

BRONZE: YOU AND I CATERERS INC.

STORAGE

GOLD: PUBLIC STORAGE

Multiple locations, publicstorage.com

Public storage is one of the largest landlords with 170 million net rentable square feet of real estate operating for over 50 years. “We have had things in storage for a long time,” one voter wrote. “Love the customer service.”

SILVER: 5 STAR MOVING & STORAGE

BRONZE: ARROW MOVING & STORAGE

TAILOR & ALTERATIONS

GOLD (TIE): JEANETTE SPARKS, MADE BY TERI LLC 719-963-0749, facebook.com/JeanettesEmbroideryAndMore 719-623-771, madebyterillc.com

From stitching stockings to wedding dress alterations, Sparks’ service includes embroidery, tailoring, alterations, wedding gown design, customization and repairs. Made by Teri focuses on alterations, custom shirts, custom dog clothes and sewing classes.

BRONZE: MARIA’S TAILOR SHOP

TATTOO SHOP

GOLD: FALLEN HEROES TATTOO // ART 524 W. Colorado Ave., 719-635-7431, fallenheroestattoo.com

Emphasizing the importance of the community’s military, veterans, police officers, firefighters, first responders and teachers, Fallen Heroes Tattoo // Art gives discounts to all of these professions. The business offers tattoos, piercings and cosmetic tattoos. “Great artists, fun atmosphere,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: WEST SIDE TATTOO

BRONZE: R U TATTOOED

TAX PREPARER

GOLD: YOUR TAXLADY

401 Windchime Place, 719-249-241, taxladyllc.com

A hub for tax resources and help, Your TaxLady also offers business services and QuickBooks services. “Quick and accurate tax service-best tax service I’ve ever had,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: NELSON & CO. PC

BRONZE: COLDWELL BANKER BEYOND

TECHNOLOGY SERVICES

GOLD: THE MAC CORNER

2950 Janitell Road, 719-368-2114, themaccorner.com

Helping fix iPhones, iPads and Mac computers, The Mac Corner also sells Mac products and accessories. “Great repairs and used apple products,” one voter wrote. “I’ve used (The) Mac Corner for both personal and business needs with wonderful results every time.”

SILVER: MENOZZI IT SOLUTIONS

BRONZE: SIMPLEWORKS

TIRE SHOP

GOLD: DISCOUNT TIRE

Multiple locations, discounttire.com

Started in an old plumbing supply building in Ann Arbor, Mich., during the 1960s; Discount Tire has since grown nationwide. “Discount Tire helped me get back on the road by providing a loaner tire as my specific tire had to be shipped,” one voter wrote. “Thanks to Discount I was able to have a car to drive around for the weekend with a really short wait.”

SILVER: H & H TIRE

BRONZE: BIG O TIRES

TITLE COMPANY

GOLD: EMPIRE TITLE OF COLORADO SPRINGS

Multiple Locations, etcos.com

Empire Title strives to solve title issues and close deals. “Best title company in town,” one voter wrote. “Always serving buyers, sellers and Realtors with the highest level of closing services.”

SILVER: LAND TITLE GUARANTEE CO.

BRONZE: UNIFIED TITLE CO.

TRASH COMPANY

GOLD: INFINITE DISPOSAL 1809 N. Circle Drive, 719-999-0500, infinitedisposal.com

Serving Teller, Chaffee, Park and Lake counties since 1994, Infinite Disposal expanded to Colorado Springs with residential and commercial trash services. “Best trash service I have ever had in my over 40 years living in Colorado Springs,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: GFL COLORADO SPRINGS

BRONZE: SOCO WASTE

A Detail Oriented Company

Calton Homes is a new builder to Colorado, with over 40 years of combined experience.

Helping our clients create the home of their dreams is our passion. We thrive on working closely with our clients to ensure every detail is perfect, and the project is on schedule and budget. We bring our family values of integrity, innovation, passion, and fun into our daily activities and company standards.

Our company has grown quickly due to the relationships we have formed and the referrals we have received. Let us help you create a home you love.

Call

In 2022 Infinite Disposal teamed up with local charity Cowgirls Against Cancer to raise money for breast cancer patients. — The Gazette file.

We’re proud to offer residential, commercial, facilities maintenance and solar services throughout the Colorado Front Range and beyond.

We, Apache Electric & Maintenance, Inc. are a purpose-driven company. A collaborative effort from a team composed of Colorado’s top electricians. A collection of motivators, project ignitors, and professors of preservation. Individuals who believe your knowledge and input is critical, practicing the skills of listening.

Whatever you think and electrical company is, we are not it. Come and join the tribe.

Bijou Animal Hospital has been serving the Pikes Peak region since 1959. — The Gazette file.

VETERINARIAN/ANIMAL HOSPITAL

GOLD: BIJOU ANIMAL HOSPITAL PC

123 Swope Ave., 719-471-4457, bijouanimalhospital.com

Serving Colorado Springs since 1959 for all sorts of animals and breeds, voters found the staff skilled and caring. “They’re affordable and truly care about your pets!” one voter wrote.

SILVER: TIMBERVIEW ANIMAL HOSPITAL

BRONZE: BANFIELD PET HOSPITAL

WEDDING CAKES

GOLD: BOONZAAIJER’S

DUTCH BAKERY

610 E. Fillmore St., 719-264-0177, dutchpastry.com

Voters raved about their delicious desserts and baked goods. “I love Boonzaaijer’s bakery because everything that is made is always fresh and beautifully presented,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: SUGARPLUM CAKE SHOPPE

BRONZE: ICING ON THE CAKE

A wedding cake display at Boonzaaijer's Dutch Bakery. —Photo by Jerilee Bennett

WEDDING CATERING

GOLD: PICNIC BASKET CATERING COLLECTIVE

1701 S. 8th St., 719-635-0200, pbcatering.com

In operation since 1989, the company incorporates three flavors of catering including casual contemporary cuisine, Santa Maria barbecue and custom chef catering. “They do a great job on events — have used them on many occasions and I have never been disappointed,” a voter wrote.

SILVER: SALT OF THE EARTH CATERING

BRONZE: MARIGOLD CAFE & BAKERY

WEDDING DJ

GOLD: RANDY RODRIGUEZ ENTERTAINMENT

719-310-9290, randysinatra.com

From music selection to choreography, Rodriguez is attuned to detail and voters noticed. “He really knows how to make an occasion a truly special event,” one voter wrote.

SILVER: HEPS DJ & PHOTO BOOTH

BRONZE: MACADOE PRESSPLAYDOE

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

GOLD: TINA JOINER PHOTOGRAPHY

8720 Skip Stone Point, 719-964-0168, tinajoinerphotography.com

For 10 years Tina Joiner has focused on wedding photography, capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments with attention to detail. “Not only does she take great photos,” one voter wrote. “She is fun, friendly and organized.”

SILVER: MANDY PENN PHOTOGRAPHY

BRONZE: MELANIE & TYLER

WEDDING PLANNER

GOLD: WAKEFIELD EVENT CO wakefieldeventco.com

As a Colorado Springs native with a background in

event planning and a degree in business administration, Paige seeks to make every plan possible no matter its scope. “Great event planning services,” one voter wrote. “Highly recommend.”

SILVER: ERIKA WEEKS — WED WITH ERIKA

BRONZE: J’LOREN & CO. EVENTS

WEDDING VENUE

GOLD: HILLSIDE GARDENS

1006 S. Institute St., 719-520-9463, hillsidecolorado.com

Once a dairy farm, Hillside Gardens sits on four acres with views of the Front Range and seats up to 150 people. “This is a beautiful venue,” one voter wrote. “The grounds are well maintained and breathtaking. The Pikes Peak backdrop adds to the beauty of these gardens. This is a top choice for a wedding.”

SILVER: THE CLUB AT FLYING HORSE

BRONZE: CLAY VENUES

WEIGHT LOSS MANAGEMENT

GOLD: TRAIN WITH JOE 4835 Barnes Road, 719-229-2639, trainwithjoe.com

A personal trainer with a private studio that helps clients lose weight or get in shape. “He kicks butt,” one voter wrote, “But is very friendly, and supportive.”

SILVER: FARRELL’S EXTREME BODYSHAPING

BRONZE: METABOLIC RESEARCH CENTER

WINDOW WELLS

GOLD: ALL SEASON DOOR AND GLASS 5967 Omaha Blvd., 719-574-2256, asdoorandglass.com

Focusing on doors, glass and other repair work for commercial and residential clients, this family-owned company has been in business since 1995.

SILVER: WINDOWS FOR LESS

BRONZE: COLORADO CUSTOM WELDING

Competent, Compassionate Care In A comfortable Environment™

For voting us The Best of the Springs for a 5th consecutive year.

We are honored to be a finalist in The Best of the Springs for a third consecutive year. Thanks to all of our clients who help us achieve this recognition.

For voting us The Best of the Springs for a 6th consecutive year!

We appreciate all of our clients who help us achieve this recognition Bijou Animal Hospital 123 Swope Ave., Colo. Spgs., CO 80909 719-471-4457

Bijou Animal Hospital 123 Swope Ave Colorado Springs, Co 80909 719-471-4457

Jonathon and Sam Milam walk through Hillside Gardens on their wedding day. —

Photo by Jerilee Bennett

Suit your fancy.

If you can visualize that perfect set of glassware, tennis bracelet, out-of-print book or sleek new SUV, it’s probably available from Colorado Springs merchants.

Perhaps you only know what you want when you see it: Impulse shoppers can find their happy place here. Stroll through Old Colorado City boutiques or wander through big-box stores scattered across town.

Among the favorite shopping venues among our Best of the Springs voters, you will find high-quality items and exceptional service. Save online shopping for a rainy day. Here, those days are few and far between.

At Mountain Standard Goods, you’ll find a variety of curated apparel and gifts that are new, repurposed, and vintage.

— The Gazette, Cody Van Hooser

ANTIQUES

GOLD: AMERICAN CLASSICS MARKETPLACE

1815 N. Academy Blvd., 719-596-8585, americanclassicsmarketplace.com

Perusing the entire repertoire of items is a daylong affair, according to voters. Find antique furniture, jewelry, home décor, collectibles and more offered by more than 300 vendors at Colorado’s largest antique mall. No two visits are exactly the same as selections rotate often. One voter called it a “fun to get lost in,” while another praised the variety of selection. “Good place for all your high-end junk needs!” they said.

SILVER: SWEET WILLIAM

ANTIQUE MALL

BRONZE: TROUVAILLE

VENDOR MARKET

A model sarcophagus is on display in one of the showrooms at the American Classics Marketplace on Academy Boulevard. — The Gazette file.

AUCTION

GOLD: ROSS AUCTION

3709 E. Platte Ave., 719-632-6693, rossauction.com

Ross offers appraisal, consignment, estate sales and, of course, auction services with the goal of helping their clients find the best market values. Voters say it’s a great place to find “exceptional pieces of antique furniture” and puts on a great show even for non-buyers who have never been to an auction before.

SILVER: SCHUR SUCCESS GROUP

BRONZE: AUCTION HOUSE 360

BABY SHOP

GOLD: TERRA VERDE BOUTIQUE

208 N. Tejon St., 719-444-8621, terraverdestyle.com

Terra Verde tops voters’ lists in several ways: boutiques, women’s fashion and, of course, baby items. The shop offers something for women of every age, according to one voter. “Terra Verde is a gem and should not be missed!” notes another.

SILVER: PARIS MARKET VINTAGE

BRONZE: ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF COLORADO SPRINGS BARGAIN BOX

BEER SELECTION

GOLD: CHEERS LIQUOR MART

1105 N. Circle Drive, 719-574-2244, cheersliquormart.com

Exceptional selection, friendly staff and reasonable prices make this spot a favorite among Springs voters. ” Tons of selections and great sales, one voter notes of the largest liquor store in southern Colorado and one of the biggest in the country.

SILVER: COALTRAIN FINE WINE, CRAFT BEER & SPIRITS

BRONZE: APPLEJACK WINE & SPIRITS

BOOKSTORE

GOLD: POOR RICHARD’S BOOKSTORE

320 N. Tejon St., 719-578-5549, poorrichardsdowntown.com

Poor Richard’s Bookstore has been a local staple for nearly a half-century. Known of course for its books — it is, after all, a bookstore — voters say it’s also a great spot to peruse an array of eclectic trinkets and gifts. The shop sports a “cozy, quirky” vibe, according to one voter, and is “old fashioned and modern all at the same time.”

SILVER: TATTERED COVER BOOK STORE

BRONZE: HOOKED ON BOOKS

BIKE SHOP

GOLD: CRITERIUM BICYCLES

6150 Corporate Drive, 719-599-0419, criterium.com

“THE BEST staff and service ... second to none!!!!” one voter wrote of this “go-to business for all things bicycle.” Now in its 50th year in business, customers keep coming back for Criterium’s “knowledgeable and excellent customer service.”

SILVER: TED’S BICYCLES

BRONZE: OLD TOWN BIKE SHOP

BOUTIQUE

GOLD: BLACK FOREST BOUTIQUE

970-629-5463, blackforestboutiqueco.com

Black Forest Boutique began in 2016 as a way for the owner to connect with the community, other women and herself. Now, voters say she’s part of the reason they choose Black Forest over other boutiques, in addition to the variety of clothes and accessories on sale. “Excellent service,” one voter said. “Owner enjoys making customers feel like her family and close friends.”

SILVER: TERRA VERDE BOUTIQUE

BRONZE: SPARKLES & LACE BOUTIQUE

24 YEARS IN A ROW!

Voters chose Heuberger Subaru as the best car dealer for new vehicles. — The Gazette file.

BUTCHER

GOLD: RANCH FOODS DIRECT

1228 E. Fillmore St., 719-623-2980; 4635 Town Center Drive, 719-559-0873, ranchfoodsdirect.com

Ranch foods has been around since 2000, and voters cite its “deep local connections” within the community and quality meat as part of the draw. According to one voter, it’s the “go-to place for best quality meats and hard-to-get items.” Put more succinctly by another: “Good beef!”

SILVER: KING SOOPERS

BRONZE: WHOLE FOODS MARKET

CAR DEALER — NEW

GOLD: HEUBERGER SUBARU

1080 Motor City Drive, 719-500-4951, bestbuysubaru.com

Great customer service and a complementary coffee bar are among voters’ favorite aspects of Heuberger Subaru, while others highlighted the low-pressure salesmanship. “The whole process was comfortable, easy and stress free,” according to one customer. “Great coffee!” said another. “Oh — and cars!”

SILVER: PHIL LONG DEALERSHIPS

BRONZE: GROOVE HONDA

CAR DEALER — USED

GOLD: SPRINGS AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

3499 E. Platte Ave.; 925 N. Powers Blvd., 719-477-0900, springsautomotivegroup.com

Buyers at Springs Automotive Group don’t need to leave the comfort of their own home to find their next pre-owned vehicle. Browse current inventory and schedule a test drive online. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Use their car finder tool and Springs Automotive will contact you when it adds vehicles matching your search to their inventory.

SILVER: CARMAX

BRONZE: PHIL LONG DEALERSHIPS

CARPET

GOLD: O’BRIENS CARPET ONE FLOOR & HOME

111 E. Garden of the Gods Road, 719-203-2917; 6155 N. Academy Blvd., 719-425-8572, obrienscarpetone.com

O’Briens Carpet One Floor & Home is a locally owned and operated business spanning three decades in Colorado Springs, and in that time it has racked up a solid reputation and devoted customer base. Voters praise the people behind the business in addition to their products.

SILVER: FLOOR CRAFT LLC

BRONZE: THE HOME DEPOT

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING

GOLD: ONCE UPON A CHILD 6948 N. Academy Blvd., 719-599-5966, onceuponachild.com

Buy or sell gently used kids’ clothes, shoes, toys and baby gear at an affordable price. Voters love the wide selection and low costs. “Love this place for price and selection as kids grow SO FAST!” one shopper said.

SILVER: ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF COLORADO SPRINGS BARGAIN BOX

BRONZE: SCHEELS

CUSTOM FRAMING

GOLD: HOBBY LOBBY hobbylobby.com

Voters love Hobby Lobby for all things crafts and home, including custom frames that will make your photos and artwork pop on display. “I always find what I am looking for here,” said one voter, “and sometimes I come out with extra stuff.”

SILVER: ACADEMY ART & FRAMING COMPANY

BRONZE: MIKE’S CAMERA

DEPARTMENT STORE

GOLD: SCHEELS

1226 InterQuest Parkway, 719-220-6444, scheels.com

Scheels is “like a mall within one store,” covering just about anything and everything a shopper could imagine. As one voter put it, it’s “fantastic for having fun, feeling country, and being a proud American.” Another adds, “If you can’t find it here then it’s not made.”

SILVER: TARGET

BRONZE: KOHLS

A free ferris wheel is in the middle of the store at Scheels.— Photo by Jerilee Bennett.

EYEGLASSES

GOLD: COSTCO WHOLESALE

5050 N. Nevada Ave., 719-264-5010; 5885 Barnes Road, 719-591-3002, costco.com

A multi-year winner, Costco is known for selling quality products across the board. As one voter notes, it’s “The best store ever for anything you could possibly need” — and that includes eyeglasses. Voters said, “Some days I realize everything I am wearing and everything I am eating came from Costco,” while another said, “When you need a vat of mayo and a case of red wine and some bulk cheese.”

SILVER: ROCKRIMMON VISION SOURCE

BRONZE: ABBA EYE CARE

FARMERS MARKET

GOLD: OLD COLORADO CITY

2407 W. Colorado Ave., 719-574-1283, facebook.com/ oldcoloradocityfarmersmarket

The popular farmers market has captured the hearts and stomachs of Colorado Springs every Saturday for more than 20 years. From June through October, enjoy fresh local produce, baked goods, herbs and spices in a friendly environment. “With a coffee in hand, I could wander here forever,” said one reader. “We love walking there and taking in the sights, sounds and scents. It’s like going back in time, peaceful,” said another.

SILVER: SMITH FARMS

BRONZE: SPENCERS PRODUCE, LAWN & GARDEN CENTER

FLOORING INSTALLATION

GOLD: O’BRIENS CARPET ONE FLOOR & HOME

111 E. Garden of the Gods Road, 719-203-2917; 6155 N. Academy Blvd., 719-425-8572, obrienscarpetone.com

Be it carpet, hardwood, tile, vinyl, laminate or cork, O’Briens has your home covered. One voter said, “Amazing customer service. They also have great products.”

SILVER: G3 HARDWOOD FLOORING

BRONZE: FLOOR COVERINGS INTERNATIONAL

FLOORING RETAILER

GOLD: O’BRIENS CARPET ONE FLOOR & HOME

111 E. Garden of the Gods Road, 719-203-2917; 6155 N. Academy Blvd., 719-425-8572, obrienscarpetone.com

O’Briens swept the flooring game in this year’s Best of the Springs, taking home the gold in three different categories. Voters say its a mixture of stellar customer and products that catch their attention. One voter summarized the store, “Community-involved family. Great people.”

SILVER: G3 HARDWOOD FLOORING

BRONZE (TIE): FLOOR COVERINGS INTERNATIONAL, IQ FLOORS

FLORIST

GOLD: SWEETWATER A FLOWER MARKET 2419 W. Colorado Ave., 719-434-1615; 11590 Ridgeline Drive, Unit 120, 719-358-9891, sweetwaterflowermarket.com

Opened in 2021, voters say this shop has made a big impact in a short amount of time. Described as “affordable” and “exquisite,” Sweetwater infuses the charm of a southern-style mercantile store into its customer experience and provides made-to-order arrangements.

SILVER: PLATTE FLORAL

BRONZE: SKYWAY CREATIONS

FURNITURE STORE

GOLD: AMERICAN FURNITURE WAREHOUSE

2805 N. Chestnut St., 719-633-4220, afw.com

American Furniture Warehouse hasn’t budged from its top spot in this Best of the Springs category since 2005, thanks to its customer service and wide variety of “beautiful and affordable” furniture. As one voter rhymed, “Plain and simple they can’t be beat. From the purchase to delivery, totally complete.”

SILVER: PLATTE FURNITURE

BRONZE: WOODLEY’S FINE FURNITURE –COLORADO SPRINGS

GIFT SHOP

GOLD: TERRA VERDE BOUTIQUE

208 N. Tejon St., 719-444-8621, terraverdestyle.com

Voters say this is the spot to find a great gift for someone special, guaranteed. “You can’t ever buy a wrong gift at Terra Verde,” one voter wrote. “I could buy one of everything in this store,” another said.

SILVER: GARDEN OF THE GODS TRADING POST

BRONZE: ROCKY MOUNTAIN SOAP MARKET

GUNS/AMMO

GOLD: MAGNUM SHOOTING CENTER

13372 Meadowgrass Drive, 719-487-3193; 2050 Southgate Road, 719-357-5911, magnumshootingcenter.com

Magnum Shooting Center has been a Best of the Springs winner since it opened in 2014. Now operating from two locations, each center is open to the public and includes a range, retail shop and classes. Voters say the facility’s knowledgeable staff and emphasis on safety are among the center’s highlights.

SILVER: SCHEELS

BRONZE: SPRINGS ARMORY

HARDWARE STORE

GOLD: ACE HARDWARE

acecoloradosprings.com

Ace Hardware has a little bit of everything, from the essentials to vintage items to “the best things you didn’t know you needed.” It’s popularity stems it’s fast service and hard-to-find items you won’t find from big box stores. Voters said there is not need for “trying to hunt down an employee who actually knows where things are and is helpful!”

SILVER: LOWE’S HOME IMPROVEMENT

BRONZE: THE HOME DEPOT

HOBBY SHOP

GOLD: HOBBY LOBBY

hobbylobby.com

True to its name, Hobby Lobby’s reputation as “THE resource for decorating and hobbies” never wavers. Readers said it’s a “great company with every craft under the sun,” and “I love that the staff are always patient and know that making decisions is hard in a big store.”

SILVER: THE IRON LION

BRONZE: DUNGEONS & JAVAS

HUNTING SUPPLIES

GOLD: SCHEELS

1226 InterQuest Parkway, 719-220-6444, scheels.com

Hunting supplies are just the tip of the iceberg at this massive store. Voters say it covers just about all of their shopping needs, save for groceries, but some don’t even go for the merchandise at all. “This is a fun morning for our family,” said one voter.

SILVER: SPORTSMAN’S WAREHOUSE

BRONZE: MAGNUM SHOOTING CENTER

JEWELER

GOLD: LUISA GRAFF JEWELERS

5901 N. Nevada Ave., 719-822-0691, luisagraffjewelers.com

The local jeweler has diamonds of all shapes, sizes and colors to choose from and, should something happen, even offers repair services. Voters describe the shop as a “wish list” location with great pieces at great prices. “Everyone at Luisa Graff Jewelers is so kind,” said one voter, “from the security man at the entrance to the people selling jewelry.”

SILVER: REVOLUTION JEWELRY WORKS

BRONZE: JARED

JEWELRY, CUSTOM MADE

GOLD: LUISA GRAFF JEWELERS

5901 N. Nevada Ave, 719-822-0691, luisagraffjewelers.com

Luisa Graff Jewelers doesn’t only sell a “beautiful selection” of items, but it also repairs them. Voters say the staff made them “feel special and important” and always head to the shop when their jewelry needs to be fixed for the friendly and knowledgeable staff.

SILVER: REVOLUTION JEWELRY WORKS

BRONZE: LANE MIRCHELL JEWELERS MANITOU SPRINGS

KITCHEN STORE

GOLD: SPARROW HAWK GOURMET COOKWARE

120 N. Tejon St., 719-471-3235, sparrowhawkcookware.com

This downtown Colorado Springs gem is “a treasure for your household needs,” according to one voter. The locallyowned store is known for unique cookware and kitchen gadgets that are hard to find anywhere else. “If you love to cook,” said one voter, “Sparrow Hawk is your store.”

SILVER: WILLIAMS-SONOMA

BRONZE: ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF COLORADO SPRINGS BARGAIN BOX

LIQUOR STORE

GOLD: CHEERS LIQUOR

1105 N. Circle Drive, 719-574-2244, cheersliquormart.com

Cheers is a perennial favorite among Springs voters for its vast selection at reasonable prices. Put simply by one voter: “Cheers has to be the best liquor store in CS … They have great deals and are always pleasant when you check out.”

SILVER: COALTRAIN FINE WINE, CRAFT BEER & SPIRITS

BRONZE: APPLEJACK WINE & SPIRITS

MATTRESS STORE

GOLD: DENVER MATTRESS

6320 Corporate Centre Circle, 719-266-8383; 4331 Integrity Center Point, 719-380-7541, denvermattress. furniturerow.com

Denver Mattress has consistently topped its competition since 2007. Voters say the customer service is stellar, whether that be a free exchange or a smooth delivery and assembly. “I like that they are really there to help you through the process & for as long as it takes to make sure you are happy,” one said.

SILVER: BOB’S DISCOUNT MATTRESSES

BRONZE: AMERICAN FURNITURE WAREHOUSE

MEN’S FASHION

GOLD: THE MEN’S XCHANGE 409 N. Tejon St., 719-418-3372, themensxchange.com

Voters love the variety of suits, shirts, jackets and ties, but what truly sets Men’s XChange apart is its mission: Every dollar spent goes toward assisting men with affordable professional work attire. The store accepts gently used donations and mentor or style consultant volunteers. One voter said, “They take the time to teach you how to wear a suit and make sure you get the perfect fit.”

SILVER: SCHEELS

BRONZE: ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF COLORADO SPRINGS BARGAIN BOX

MILITARY FRIENDLY CAR DEALER

GOLD: PHIL LONG DEALERSHIPS phillong.com

Described on its websites as the “premier Colorado Springs automotive dealer group,” Phil Long Dealerships has been in business since 1945 with an extensive inventory of cars new and used. Voters say they enjoy the consistency of the experience: good, reliable service from kind people.

SILVER: MCCLOSKEY DEALERSHIPS

BRONZE: SPRINGS AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

MOTORCYCLE/OFF ROAD

GOLD: PIKES PEAK HARLEY-DAVIDSON 5867 N. Nevada Ave., 866-638-7908, pikespeakharleydavidson.com

The state’s Voters continue to choose Pikes Peak Harley Davidson as their top choice for new and pre-owned motorcycles. The “super friendly staff” have not gone unnoticed by voters, who treasure the dealer’s superior customer service.

SILVER: ROCKY MOUNTAIN CYCLE PLAZA

BRONZE: APEX SPORTS

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

GOLD: MEEKER MUSIC INC. meekermusic.com

Meeker Music is one of the oldest music stores in town. The family-owned shop offers rentals, lessons and quality instrument sales at affordable prices. One voter said, “Fully stocked music supply store that always has what I need.”

SILVER: GRANER SCHOOL OF MUSIC

BRONZE: GUITAR CENTER

NATURAL & ORGANIC MARKET

GOLD: SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET sprouts.com

With hundreds of locations across the country, Sprouts Farmers Market offers great deals on high-quality produce. Shoppers can find recipes and digital coupons at the shop’s website and will be greeted in-store by a friendly and knowledgeable staff. The market is “less pretentious” than other competitors, according to one voter, while another said, “If the grocery store doesn’t have your gourmet ingredient, you’re bound to find it at Sprouts.”

SILVER: TRADER JOE’S

BRONZE: MOUNTAIN MAMAS

NEW STORE (OPENED IN 2022)

GOLD: THE BROOM CIRCLE HOLISTIC HEALING AND TEA ROOM

112 Iowa Ave., Suite 1, 719-662-2057, linktr.ee/thebroomcircle

The herbalism and holistic healing journey began for owner Shay Koloff after a high-risk pregnancy in 2016. Now, she’s helping other find healing with her own business dedicated to as much. The Broom Circle sells herbs, tea and holistic body services as well as a small selection of metaphysical items like crystals and jewelry.

SILVER: MATCHBOX CANDLE CO.

BRONZE: MAGGIE M BOUTIQUE

James Proby, CEO of The Men’s XChange, at his downtown Colorado Springs men’s clothing store at 409 N. Tejon St. — The Gazette file.

NURSERY/GARDENING CENTER

GOLD: PHELAN GARDENS

4955 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 719-574-8058, phelangardens.com

Shoppers can find indoor and outdoor plants at Phelan Gardens year-round. The shop is a greenhouse, nursery, gift shop and garden center all rolled into one. Its helpful staff can offer tips and tricks for successful gardening, whether you’re green to the hobby or a veteran looking to troubleshoot firsttime plant problems. One voter said, “Always hard to stay within budget at this store — they have so many beautiful plants it’s hard to not buy everything!”

SILVER: RICK’S GARDEN CENTER

BRONZE: SPENCER’S LAWN & GARDEN CENTERS

ORGANIC MEAT SELECTION

GOLD: RANCH FOODS DIRECT

1228 E. Fillmore St., 719-623-2980; 4635 Town Center Drive, 719-559-0873, ranchfoodsdirect.com

A winner since 2004, ranching culture and selection of healthful meats — that is, naturally raised beef from small farmers and artisanal food producers — keep customers coming back. “I know where my food is coming from,” said one voter,” and that’s important!”

SILVER: WHOLE FOODS MARKET

BRONZE: COSTCO

Container plants at Phelan Gardens. — Photo by Jerilee Bennett.

ORTHOPEDIC SHOES

GOLD: FLEET FEET — BOULDER RUNNING COMPANY — COLORADO SPRINGS

3659 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 719-278-3535, fleetfeet.com

People of all ages can find comfort and confidence amid this store’s offerings, which cater not just to runners but movers of all kinds. Voters said, “My go-to store for my Hokas. These folks are always helpful for this senior ‘walker’!” and, “I love that they fit you to your shoes — made a big difference in my running.”

SILVER: BROWN’S SHOE FIT CO.

BRONZE: VALENTINE COMFORT SHOES

OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT

GOLD: REI

1376 E. Woodmen Road, 719-260-1455, REI.com

As one voter asks, “What’s Colorado without an REI?” The national chain is known for having quality items to supply outdoors enthusiasts of all sorts with the apparel and equipment they need for their respective hobbies. Voters recommend becoming a member for extra deals, adding, “Really the gold standard for outdoor retailers.”

SILVER: SCHEELS

BRONZE: MOUNTAIN CHALET

OUTFITTER

GOLD: ROUTES OUTFITTER

3131 W. Colorado Ave., 719-358-9790, routesoutfitter.com

The store’s leadership team loves the outdoors, according to its website, and it loves people. Routes gets to the heart of those passions by connecting Colorado Springs residents with the outdoor hobbies they love. Cyclists, mountain bikers, runners, skiers and more turn to the outfitter for equipment, apparel and services.

SILVER: MOUNTAIN CHALET

BRONZE: SCHEELS

PET STORE

GOLD: PETSMART petsmart.com

A regular Best of the Springs winner, this chain sells more than just supplies. It’s your fur-baby’s one-stopshop for grooming, training, veterinary care, boarding and, of course, the pets themselves. Voters say PetSmart’s vast offerings keep them coming back, and being able to take a mid-shopping-trip break to gawk at the selection of adorable animals is also a plus.

SILVER: WAG N’ WASH NATURAL PET FOOD & GROOMING

BRONZE: FURRY FRIENDS INC.

PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO STORE

GOLD: MIKE’S CAMERA

5420 N. Academy Blvd., 719-597-1575, mikescamera.com

Mike’s Camera is a longtime favorite among Best of the Springs voters. The store offers photography supplies, educational courses and rental equipment. One voter said, “It’s so nice to see and handle things in person versus trying to buy online. Their rental system is also super!”

SILVER: DAWN CHRISTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

BRONZE: FLYHI PHOTOGRAPHY

PLACE FOR RECORDS/VINYL

GOLD: INDEPENDENT RECORDS & VIDEO 195 N. Academy Blvd., 719-473-0882, beindependent.com

Voters say they love the vibe of this nostalgic spot, where old school methods of entertainment like DVDs and records still have a place, as they have for decades. “I have enjoyed strolling the aisles of music here since I was a kid,” said one voter. “Always and forever the best place to get the album you’ve wanted,” said another.

SILVER: THE LEECHPIT RECORDS AND VINTAGE

BRONZE: EARTH PIG MUSIC

RESALE/CONSIGNMENT SHOP

GOLD: ASHLEY’S ATTIC 708 N. Weber St., 719-237-1323, ashleysatticconsignmentshop.com

Ashley’s Attic is a mother-daughter duo-run women’s resale boutique full of “wonderfully curated” styles. One voter raves, “I can always find fantastic pieces in this store!” Another says, “The owner, Ashley, is so amazing and friendly! She procures quality products and has such a great eye for fashion.

SILVER: ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF COLORADO SPRINGS BARGAIN BOX

BRONZE: WHO GIVES A SCRAP

SHOE STORE

GOLD: FLEET FEET — BOULDER RUNNING COMPANY — COLORADO SPRINGS

3659 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 719-278-3535, fleetfeet.com Runners and walkers alike can browse a curated selection of shoes and apparel at this location. Readers said it “made a big difference in my running,” and “I left feeling confident and comfortable in my new running shoes.”

SILVER: BROWN’S SHOE FIT CO.

BRONZE: DSW DESIGNER SHOE WAREHOUSE

SHOPPING CENTER

GOLD: THE PROMENADE SHOPS AT BRIARGATE

1605-1925 Briargate Parkway, 719-265-6264, thepromenadeshopsatbriargate.com

Families can browse a wide selection of stores as they stroll through the outdoor shopping mall, speakers playing music along the walk. One shopper commented, “It is so dangerous for us to live only a few miles away from these shops because I could literally spend so much money at many of the shops.”

SILVER: UNIVERSITY VILLAGE COLORADO SHOPPING CENTER

BRONZE: FIRST & MAIN TOWN CENTER

SKI SHOP

GOLD: THE SKI SHOP INC.

1422 S. Tejon St., 719-427-4740, theskishopinc.com

Voters praise this family-owned and operated shop for its friendly and professional staff who “enjoy hearing and sharing adventure details.” Another voter said, “Wonderful people, great service, excellent selection, all in a 2ndgeneration family owned business.”

SILVER: EPIC MOUNTAIN GEAR

BRONZE: CHRISTY SPORTS SKI & PATIO

SPICE STORE

GOLD: SAVORY SPICE SHOP

110 N. Tejon St., 719-633-8803, savoryspiceshop.com

Passersby can smell the shop’s inventory from outside its Tejon Street location. The shelves are stocked with flavors from around the world, and the knowledgeable staff is ready and willing to help shoppers of all culinary levels navigate new flavors. Voters said, “You can’t walk by this place and not stop in. The aroma is very inviting,” and “The quality and selection is unmatched.”

SILVER: PENZEYS (CLOSED)

BRONZE: MOUNTAIN MAMA NATURAL FOODS

SPORTING GOODS

GOLD: SCHEELS

1226 InterQuest Parkway, 719-220-6444, scheels.com

New to Colorado Springs in 2021, the employee-owned store quickly made a positive impression on shoppers. From sports and outdoor recreation to puzzles, games and pets, and even a Ferris wheel, Scheels has just about everything a shopper could need. “It’s a fun place to just hangout even if you don’t buy anything,” one voter said. “Puts all other sports stores to shame,” said another. “

SILVER: MAGNUM SHOOTING CENTER

BRONZE: ALL AMERICAN SPORTS

The Fjällräven store at the Promenade Shops at Briargate. — Photo by Annika Schmid

Barb VanNess browses games and toys at Little Richard’s Toy Store. — The Gazette file.

SUPERMARKET

GOLD: KING SOOPERS

kingsoopers.com

A winner since 2006, this “national chain that feels local” continues to impress voters with an easy-to-use app, digital coupons and some of the freshest produce around. With 11 locations in the Colorado Springs area, shoppers agree King Soopers has the best prices and variety in town. One voter said it has a “Neighborhood feel with big store selection,” and another said, “An old standby where shoppers are certain to find just about anything.”

SILVER: TRADER JOE’S

BRONZE: SAFEWAY

TACKLE SHOP

GOLD: ANGLER’S COVEY

295 21st St., 719-471-2984, anglerscovey.com

Voters agree Angler’s Covey is the best spot in town for fly fishing aficionados. Readers said: “I’ve bought a couple of gift cards for my husband, otherwise he would spend too much money there,” and “This is the perfect spot to pick up your fishing license and all the extras you need before heading up Hwy24 to your favorite fishing hole.”

SILVER: BASS PRO SHOPS

BRONZE: SCHEELS

THRIFT STORE

GOLD: ARC THRIFT STORE

arcthrift.com

The Colorado chain is a trusted source for quality upcycled goods, where voters say they enjoy shopping and volunteering alike. Shoppers also praise weekly specials, like 50% off Saturdays and senior discount Tuesdays. “I love the deals and the many, many, many clothes that are practically new that I can get for a lesser price,” said one voter. “Never know the treasures that you may find,” notes another.

SILVER: WHO GIVES A SCRAP

BRONZE: GOODWILL

TOY STORE

GOLD: LITTLE RICHARD’S TOYSTORE

324 N. Tejon St., 719-578-5549, littlerichardstoystore.com

Little Richard’s is part of Poor Richard’s, a multipleshops-in-one Colorado Springs treasure. The family-owned store offers new and used books, toys and multicultural items. Voters said, “The kids love the toy store and the kid’s section of the bookstore,” and “I love being able to enjoy a glass of wine while shopping for books and funky gifts.”

SILVER: TOY STATION

BRONZE: SCHEELS

VAPE SHOP

GOLD: CHIEF VAPOR

Multiple locations, chiefvapor.com

The team is dedicated to helping customers stop smoking with a smooth, easy and cheaper alternative. Patrons love the friendly staff. “Great selection, great prices,” said one voter.

SILVER: ABSOLUTE VAPOR

BRONZE: LA DULCE VAPOR LABS

WINDOW COVERINGS/BLINDS

GOLD: BUDGET BLINDS OF GREATER COLORADO SPRINGS

384 Garden of the Gods Road, Suite 160, 719-3017171, budgetblinds.com

Budget Blinds’ reputation for outstanding merchandise, installation and service precedes it: The store regularly tops its Best of the Springs category. “Always competitive pricing with so many options to choose from, custom drapery, blinds, wovens and more,” one voter said. “They’ve done almost my entire home.”

SILVER: GOTCHA COVERED COLORADO SPRINGS

BRONZE: COLORADO CUSTOM BLINDS SHADES & SHUTTERS

WINE STORE

GOLD: COALTRAIN FINE WINE, CRAFT BEER & SPIRITS

330 W. Uintah St., 719-475-9700, coaltrainwine.com

Located near the intersection of Uintah Street and I-25, Coaltrain has been a Best of the Springs awardwinner since 1995. The locally owned shop boasts a “well-curated selection of wine” and a knowledgeable staff. One customer said it’s “The most classy wine shop in town!”

SILVER: CHEERS LIQUOR MART

BRONZE: APPLEJACK WINE & SPIRITS

WOMEN’S FASHION

GOLD: TERRA VERDE BOUTIQUE

208 N. Tejon St., 719-444-8621, terraverdestyle.com

“Superior quality” women’s shoes, jewelry, purses and, yes, clothing draw shoppers’ attention to this boutique in the heart of downtown. Voters describe the shop as a “fun” and “eclectic” spot to shop for others, too. “You can’t ever buy a wrong gift at Terra Verde,” one said.

SILVER: SPARKLES & LACE BOUTIQUE

BRONZE: KOHLS