Dining Guide 2012 by Colorado Springs Gazette, LLC

This Coupon Valid Weds & Thurs for ½ Off a Bottle of Wine with $20 Food Purchase 2601 West Colorado Avenue Colorado Springs, CO 80904 719-634-1007

Open

Mon. - Sat. 6-3 Sun. 6:30-3

EARLy BIRd SpecialS

6-8:30am Weekdays only

Ask about our Breakfast Specials! Breakfast and Lunch served until 3pm!

SpecialtieS • Eggs Benedict • Chicken Fried Steak & Eggs

Vegetarian alcoholic BEvERAgES menu • veggie Burger

• French Toast & Bacon

• Eggs Florentine

• veggie Eggs Benedict

• 2 Eggs, Hash Browns & Toast

• Corned Beef Hash

• veggie Burrito

• Wine and Champagne • Mixed drinks

• 2 Egg Omelette

SandwicheS & wrapS

• Imported and domestic Beers

SouthweSt

• Philly Cheese Steak • Shaved Turkey

• Breakfast Burrito

• Turkey Melt

• Huevos Rancheros • Southwest Burrito • Chili Relleno

deliciouS deSSertS

Enjoy a slice of one of our delicious cakes or pies with a scoop of ice cream. SpecialtY drinKS • CAPPUCCINOS • LATTES • SMOOTHIES

“We are a get away that is not far away” We serve a scrumptious full breakfast. Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten free diets and other dietary restrictions are served when requested. "Best of the Springs 2011" The Colorado Springs Gazette

711 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829

719-685-1277

http://www.avenuehotelbandb.com 2

2012 DINING GUIDE

THE GAZETTE

PizzeriaRustica.com

TAPAteria.com

Timeless Old World Settings Choice Imported Ingredients  AVOG Farmer & Rancher Approved  Fresh Classic Dishes  Best Wine Values in Town  Sustainable & Scrumptious  CALL 719.632.8121 719.471.8272 AHEAD 2527 W. Colorado 2607 W. Colorado

Join the movement! Take a picture of yourself with a cardboard sign in your favorite eatery.

Then post your #OCCUPYcsDINING photo on the ColoradoSprings.com Facebook or Twitter page and tag us for a chance to win a $50 gift certificate toward your favorite haunt.

$12 or less .................... $ $13 to $19 .................. $$ $20 to $29 ..............$$$ $30 and up .......... $$$$

get your money’s worth • more at coloradosprings.com

Your ColoradoSprings.com 2012 Dining Guide is the most expansive, comprehensive guide to the Pikes Peak region ever created. Stuff it in your glove box for times when you’re driving around and can’t decide between burgers and sushi. Nearly 400 restaurants are included in the list. We aren’t featuring all the fast-food joints or speciality places, such as frozen yogurt shops, cupcake stores, hot dog carts or coffee kiosks. And we’re not including all of the wellknown chains, such as Chipotle and Outback Steakhouse. Instead, we focus on the fancyshmancy places, loud family restaurants, greasy spoons, ethnic gems and other spots that make eating in the Pikes Peak region worthwhile. You don’t want to know how much we ate in the name of “research.”

Prices are based on average dinner entree, when available

the most important part of our guide is missing. and that’s your input. Please go online and leave reviews of your favorite restaurants or suggestions on how we might improve the guide for next year.

view.............................. ▲ Patio .............................  2011 best of the springs winner ...........★

also online: videos of local chefs making some of our favorite dishes. chefs who’d like to submit their videos can contact warren epstein at warren@coloradosprings.com.

look for the radar symbol throughout this guide to find places that deserve more attention — often out-of-the-way delights you might not have considered in a while.

the second Pikes Peak restaurant week is set for March 5-18. Yes, at the request of local restaurants, we’ve expanded it to two weeks this year. what is restaurant week? as in many other cities, our restaurant week is a time when you can go out to eat and know you’ll get some amazing deals on multi-course dinners. Many restaurants also will be offering lunch deals. local restaurants who’d like to participate (and we’re expecing more than 50 this year), can e-mail teresa Farney at teresa@coloradosprings.com.

the coloradosprings.com gang recommends their favorite #occUPYcsdining local food destinations.

Keep an eye on coloradosprings.com and teresa Farney’s table talk column for more details.

THE GAZETTE

2012 DINING GUIDE

1st & 10 Sports Bar & Grill..........................................8 2000 Wok ...................................................................23 3 Margaritas ................................................................17 Adam’s Mountain Café ...............................................6 Ai Sushi & Grill ...........................................................23 Airplane Restaurant ...................................................8 Albertaco Mexican Food ...........................................17 Alfonso’s.......................................................................17 Alpenrose German Deli..............................................8 Amanda’s Fonda .........................................................17 An Nam Restaurant ..................................................24 Antlers Grille ................................................................6 Arabica Café ...............................................................32 Arceo’s ..........................................................................17 Arharn Thai Restaurant...........................................24 Aspenpointe Café .......................................................8 Back East Bar and Grill .............................................8 Bambino’s Italian Eatery and Sports Bar .............21 Bamboo Court Restaurant ......................................24 Bara Sushi ...................................................................24 Barney’s Diner .............................................................8 Bean Bandit .................................................................17 Bella Panini ..................................................................21 Bhan Thai ....................................................................24 Biaggi’s Ristortante Italiano ....................................21 Bierwerks Brewery......................................................8 Big Burrito ...................................................................17 Big Sarge’s Grill ...........................................................8 Big Train Restaurant...................................................8 Billy’s Olde World Pizza ............................................21 Bird Dog BBQ ...............................................................8 BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse..................................8 BJ’s Velvet Freez .........................................................8 Black Bear .....................................................................6 Black Bear Diner..........................................................8 Blue Star .......................................................................6 Bombers ........................................................................8 Bon Ton’s Café .............................................................8 Bona Dea Tea House & Emporium ..........................8 Borriello Brothers ......................................................21 Breugger’s Bagels .......................................................8 Brewer’s Republic .......................................................8 Briarhurst Manor Estate............................................6 Broadmoor restaurants .............................................6 Broken Bones Smokin’ Pit .........................................8 Buster O’Brian’s Café ................................................17 Carlos’ Bistro................................................................6 Carlos Miguel’s............................................................18 Caspian Café ..............................................................32 Castaways .....................................................................8 Charles Court ...............................................................6 Charlie’s Pit Barbecue/Yakibob’s ............................8 Cheddar’s Casual Café ...............................................8 China Café ..................................................................24 China China ................................................................24 China Doll Restaurant ..............................................24 China Inn .....................................................................24 China Menu.................................................................24 China Recipe ..............................................................24 China Town Restaurant............................................24 Chopsticks Asian Bistro ...........................................24 Cliff House at Pikes Peak ..........................................6 Coal Mine Dragon ......................................................24 Coffee Exchange .........................................................8 Colorado Mountain Brewery.....................................8 Colorado Smokehouse ...............................................8 Conscious Table...........................................................6 Conway’s Red Top .......................................................9 Coquette’s Bistro & Bakery .....................................30 Corner Café ..................................................................9 Cowboy’s .......................................................................9 Craftwood Inn ..............................................................6 Crave Real Burgers .....................................................9 Crystal Park Cantina .................................................18 Cucuru Gallery Café ...................................................9 Culpepper’s..................................................................17 Curry Leaf...................................................................22 Cy’s Drive-In .................................................................9 Dad’s Kwik Inn & BBQ .................................................9 Dale Street Café ..........................................................9 Danny’s Corner Bistro ................................................6 Dat’s Italian..................................................................21 Diamond Debs..............................................................9 Dogtooth Coffee ..........................................................9 Donut Mill......................................................................9 Dragon King Chinese Restaurant ..........................24 Drake Hill Sports Bar & Grill .....................................9 Drifter’s Hamburgers .................................................9 Dublin House Sports Bar ...........................................9 Dutch Kitchen ..............................................................9 Dutch Mill Tavern ........................................................9 East Coast Restaurant & Deli ...................................9 Edelweiss ....................................................................20 Egg & I...........................................................................10 Einstein Bros. Bagels .................................................10 El Padrino Mexican Restaurant...............................18 El Poblano ....................................................................18 El Ranchito Carniceria No. 3....................................18 El Super Taco ..............................................................18

Interim Publisher: Mike Burns Director of Content: Carmen Boles Vice President of Marketing: Liz Cobb

El Taco Rey ..................................................................18 Elephant Bar ...............................................................10 Elke’s German Deli ....................................................20 Empire Asian Buffet .................................................25 English Dockside Fresh Seafood & Grill ................10 Estella’s ........................................................................18 European Café and Restaurant .............................33 Everest Nepal Restaurant .......................................22 Everything Fajita ........................................................18 Extreme Pizza .............................................................21 Faerie Tales Bakehouse and Catering ...................10 Falcon’s Bar & Grill .....................................................10 Famous, a Steakhouse ...............................................6 Fargo’s Pizza Company .............................................10 Ficco’s Little Italy .......................................................21 Fiesta Jalisco ..............................................................18 Fiesta Mexicana ..........................................................18 Firehouse BBQ ............................................................10 Five Guys Burgers and Fries ....................................10 Flatirons .......................................................................10 Flow of Mexico ............................................................18 Flying W Ranch ...........................................................10 Frankie’s Bar & Grill ...................................................10 Frankie’s Too................................................................10 Fratelli Ristorante Italiano........................................21 Fujiyama ......................................................................25 Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill................................32 Gasoline Alley .............................................................10 Glad’s Original BBQ ...................................................10 Golden Bee ...................................................................6 Golden Bee .................................................................23 Good Company ...........................................................10 Grandmother’s Kitchen ............................................10 Great China Buffet ....................................................25 Greek Grille .................................................................32 Grill at Latigo Trails ....................................................11 Grizzly’s Grill at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo .............11 Gunther Toody’s ..........................................................11 Halla San Korean Barbecue ....................................25 Hatch Cover..................................................................11 Heart of Jerusalem Café.........................................32 Holy Cow Pub & Grill ..................................................11 House of Saigon ........................................................25 House of Yakitori 2 and 4 .......................................25 House of Yakitori No. 5 Thai Kitchen by Naya ...25 Hub Car Wash and Diner ...........................................11 HuHot Mongolian Grill .............................................25 Hunan Springs ...........................................................25 Hungry Bear Family Restaurant ..............................11 Il Vicino Wood-Oven Pizza ......................................22 In and Out Gyros .......................................................32 India Palace Restaurant...........................................22 Ines’ Corner Café ........................................................11 Island Grill ...................................................................30 Jack Quinn Irish Alehouse & Pub ..........................23 Jackie’s Parkside Café and Ice Cream ...................11 Jackson Creek Chinese ...........................................25 Jade Garden ...............................................................25 Jake & Telly’s Greek Taverna..................................33 Jasmine Café .............................................................26 Jason’s Deli ..................................................................11 Jill’s Kitchen .................................................................11 Jin-Go-Gae ..................................................................26 Joanie’s Bakery & Delicatessen ...............................11 Joey’s Pizza................................................................22 Johnny’s Navajo Hogan .............................................11 Jorge’s ..........................................................................18 Jose Muldoon’s ...........................................................18 Joseph’s Fine Dining ..................................................6 Judge Baldwin’s ..........................................................11 Jun Japanese Restaurant .......................................26 Juniper Valley Ranch Restaurant............................11 Keg Lounge ..................................................................11 King’s Chef Diner .......................................................12 Kohnami Sushi ...........................................................26 Kura Japanese Restaurant .....................................26 L&L Hawaiian .............................................................23 La Baguette ................................................................30 La Carreta ....................................................................19 La Casa Fiesta.............................................................19 La Casita Mexican Grill .............................................19 La Creperie .................................................................30 La Flor De Jalisco ......................................................19 La Mission ....................................................................19 La Perla Tapatia .........................................................19 La Sinaloense..............................................................19 La Tartine French Bistro Café ................................32 La Unica Autentico ....................................................19 La Zingara at Gleneagle ..........................................22 La’au’s Taco Shop .....................................................23 Lake Terrace Dining Room........................................6 Lanna Thai ..................................................................26 Lanshing Café ............................................................26 Las Cazuelas ...............................................................19 Las Palmitas ................................................................19 Lemongrass Bistro....................................................26 Leon Gessi Pizza .......................................................22

Little Nepal .................................................................22 Loop ..............................................................................19 Louie’s Pizza...............................................................22 Lucky Dragon Chinese Restaurant .......................26 Luigi’s...........................................................................22 Luna Market ...............................................................20

Rosie’s Diner................................................................15 Royal Buffet ................................................................27 Rudiments Café ..........................................................15 Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q ........................15 Rudy’s Little Hideaway ............................................20 Ruffrano’s Hell’s Kitchen .........................................22

MacKenzie’s Chop House ..........................................6 Maggie Mae’s...............................................................12 Manitou Steak and Pancake House .......................13 Mansion ........................................................................12 Marco’s Pizza .............................................................22 Margarita at PineCreek .............................................6 Margo’s Vienna Station ............................................12 Maria’s Taco Shop .....................................................20 Marigold Café & Bakery .............................................6 Marilyn’s House of Pizza .........................................22 Mason Jar ....................................................................12 Maté Factor .................................................................12 Maximillian’s Café ......................................................12 Mayflower Chinese Restaurant ..............................26 McCabe’s Tavern .......................................................23 Meadow Muffins .........................................................12 Mediterranean Café..................................................33 Melting Pot ...................................................................6 Metropolis ....................................................................12 Mildred’s Café .............................................................12 Mimi’s Café ..................................................................12 Mirch Masala ..............................................................22 Mobo Sushi .................................................................26 Mollica’s Italian Market & Deli ................................22 Mona Lisa Fondue Restaurant .................................6 Monica’s Taco Shop ..................................................20 Montague’s Parlour ...................................................13 Moon Star Chinese Restaurant ..............................26 Mo’s Diner & Lounge .................................................13 Motif ............................................................................... 7 Mountain Shadows Restaurant ...............................13 Mountain View Restaurant at Cheyenne Mountain Resort .................................................................... 7 MoZaic at the Inn at Palmer Divide ........................ 7 Mucky Duck .................................................................. 7 My Big Fat Greek Restaurant..................................33

Sahara Café ................................................................33 Saigon Cafe ................................................................27 Saigon Grill .................................................................27 Saigon Springs...........................................................28 Salsa Brava Fresh Mexican Grill .............................20 Salsa Latina ................................................................20 San Change House ...................................................28 Sandy’s .........................................................................15 Schnitzel Fritz ............................................................20 Schnitzel King ............................................................20 Senor Manuel’s Mexican Cuisine ...........................20 Seoul Tofu Grill ..........................................................28 Shanghai 2 Chinese Restaurant ............................28 Shanghai Café............................................................28 Shangrila Restaurant ...............................................28 Sheldon’s Luncheonette ...........................................15 Shin Sa Dong Korean Cuisine.................................28 Shinji’s Sushi Bar.......................................................28 Shuga’s Restaurant & Bar ........................................15 Silver Pond Chinese Restaurant ............................28 Ski Barista....................................................................15 Slayton’s Tejon Street Grill ......................................15 Smashburger ..............................................................15 Smiley’s Bakery and Café.........................................16 Sonterra Grill..............................................................20 SouthSide Johnny’s...................................................16 Spice Island Grill........................................................30 Spice of Life ................................................................16 Spicy Basil...................................................................28 Springs Orleans ........................................................... 7 Stagecoach Inn ...........................................................16 Steaksmith .................................................................... 7 Subs and Such ............................................................16 Suehiro Japanese Restaurant................................28 Summit ..........................................................................6 Sunbird .......................................................................... 7 Sushi Ai .......................................................................28 Sushi Rakkyo ..............................................................29 Sushi Ring ...................................................................29 Susie’s Westside Café................................................16 Swiss Chalet Restaurant............................................ 7

Nana’s Kitchen ............................................................13 Narai Thai Restaurant ..............................................26 Naturally’s Market and Café ....................................13 Nawlins Bar BQ & Seafood.......................................17 New China Kitchen II ................................................26 New Panda and New Panda 3 ................................27 North End Diner .........................................................13 Nosh ............................................................................... 7 O’Furry’s .......................................................................13 Old Chicago .................................................................13 Olde World Bagel & Deli............................................13 Olive Branch ................................................................13 Oliver’s Deli..................................................................13 O’Malley’s Irish Pub ...................................................13 Omelette Parlor ..........................................................14 Omelettes Etc..............................................................14 On the Boulevard .......................................................14 Oscar’s on Tejon .........................................................14 Overseas 101 ...............................................................27 P.F. Chang’s China Bistro .........................................27 Panera Bread ..............................................................14 Panino’s .......................................................................22 Pantry ...........................................................................14 Papa Joe’s....................................................................14 Paradox Lounge .........................................................14 Paravicini’s Italian Bistro .........................................22 Paris Crepe .................................................................32 Patty Jewett Bar & Grill ............................................14 PB & Jellies..................................................................14 Peak Grill ......................................................................14 Pegasus Mediterranean Café .................................33 Pei Wei Asian Diner ..................................................27 Penrose Room .............................................................6 Pepper Tree Restaurant ............................................ 7 Phantom Canyon Brewing Co..................................14 Phat Hatties ................................................................14 Pho Viet 1 ....................................................................27 Pho-N-Thai ..................................................................27 Pizzeria Rustica .........................................................22 PJ’s Bistro ...................................................................33 Poblano’s .....................................................................20 Point ..............................................................................14 Poor Richard’s ............................................................14 Pueblo Viejo Mexican Restaurant .........................20 Rabbit Hole ................................................................... 7 Rancho Alegre ...........................................................20 Rancho Liborio ..........................................................20 Rasta Pasta.................................................................30 Rhino’s Sports & Spirits ............................................14 Rico’s Coffee, Chocolate and Wine Bar .................15 Rita’s ............................................................................20 Ritz Grill........................................................................15 Rocco’s.........................................................................22 Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery .................15 Rodolfo’s Mexican Grill.............................................20 Roman Villa Pizza .....................................................22 Rong Cheng Chinese Restaurant ..........................27

Dining Guide Editor: Warren Epstein Dining Guide Reporters: Teresa Farney, Kate Jonuska, T.D. Mobley-Martinez, Linda Navarro, Lorée Rider Dining Guide Designer & Illustrator: Anita Renee Langemach Dining Guide Photographers: Jerilee Bennett, Mark Reis and Christrian Murdock Dining Guide Copy Desk: Linda Doty, Trent Stephens, Willow Welter

2012 DINING GUIDE

THE GAZETTE

Tabeguache Steakhouse ........................................... 7 Taco Star .....................................................................20 Tajine Alami ................................................................33 Tako Japanese Restaurant .....................................29 Tao’s Oriental Cuisine ..............................................29 Tapateria ....................................................................... 7 Taste of China ............................................................29 Taste of India..............................................................22 Taste of Jerusalem Café .........................................33 Taste of Philly .............................................................16 Taste of Thai Spice....................................................29 Tavern ............................................................................6 Terrazza Grill ...............................................................16 Thai Basil.....................................................................29 Thai Lily Cuisine & Yakitori No. 8 ..........................29 Thai Mint .....................................................................29 Thai Satay ...................................................................29 Thirsty Parrott ............................................................16 Thunder & Buttons II .................................................16 Tino’s Place..................................................................16 TK’s Mongolian Grill..................................................29 Tomo Sushi .................................................................29 Tong Tong Korean Restaurant ...............................30 Tony’s ............................................................................16 Tortilleria Delicias .....................................................20 Trinity Brewing Co......................................................16 Uchenna .......................................................................21 Ultimate Buffet ..........................................................30 Uncle Guido’s ..............................................................16 Uncle Sam’s Pancake House....................................16 Uwe’s ............................................................................20 Vallejo’s .......................................................................20 Vietnamese Garden ..................................................30 Villa at Palmer Lake .................................................22 Wade’s Café .................................................................16 Walter’s Bistro.............................................................. 7 Warehouse Restaurant and Gallery ........................ 7 West Lobby Bar ...........................................................6 Western Omelette ......................................................16 Wild Ginger Thai Restaurant ..................................30 Will’s Sports Pub ........................................................16 Wines of Colorado ......................................................16 Wooglin’s Deli ..............................................................16 Wyatt’s Pub and Grill .................................................16 Xiang’s Kitchen ..........................................................30 Yoo Mae Japanese Cuisine .....................................30 Yukon Rock and Roll Grill .........................................16 Zen Fusion Sushi & Bistro .......................................30

Marigold Café and Bakery Lemon Tarts and Lime Tarts Photo: Mark Reis Design: Anita Renee Langemach

THE GAZETTE

2012 DINING GUIDE

fine dining

AdAm’s mountAin CAfÉ

934 Manitou ave., Manitou SpringS • 685-1430 • adaMSMountain.coM Slow food, organic, gourmet and casual, plus killer breakfasts ...$$▲

Jose AGuilAr

Antlers Grille

Marigold caFé and bakery paStry cheF

4 S. caScade ave. • 473-5600 • antlerS.coM Breakfast and lunch, a good Sunday brunch spread. ............................ $$$

the BlACk BeAr

10375 ute paSS road, green Mountain FallS • 684-9648 • blackbearreStaurant.coM Chef-driven delicacies served in a log cabin. .......................................... $$$

the Blue stAr

1645 S. tejon St. • 632-1086 • theblueStar.net The Blue Star has become part of the establishment, but it maintains an ever-changing, high-end menu on the creative side. ................. $$$

BriArhurst mAnor estAte

404 Manitou ave., Manitou SpringS • 685-1864 • briarhurSt.coM A Victorian mansion serving Colorado-style cuisine. ................. $$$$▲

the BroAdmoor restAurAnts ChArles Court

1 lake ave. • 577-5774 • broadMoor.coM A modern, playful American and fusion upscale delight. ...$$$$▲

the Golden Bee liSting under iriSh/britiSh

lAke terrACe dininG room

1 lake ave. • 577-5776 • broadMoor.coM The best and most-elegant Sunday brunch in town. .......$$$$▲

the Penrose room

1 lake ave. • 577-5773 • broadMoor.coM The only five-diamond and five-star restaurant in Colorado. Service, cuisine and ambience reach perfection..................................$$$$▲

summit

9 lake circle • 577-5733 • broadMoor.coM A sexy, contemporary bistro with halibut cheeks to die for. .... $$$

the tAvern

1 lake ave. • 577-5772 • broadMoor.coM Live dance music pairs well with solid steak and seafood entrees. ..$$$$

West loBBy BAr

1 lake ave. • broadMoor.coM under the radar • The chef from nearby Charles Court gets creative with small plates at this lakeside bar. ....$$▲

CArlos’ Bistro

1025 S. 21St. • 471-2905 Casual yet elegant, with food that is always expertly prepared and beautifully plated. Well-known for high-quality seafood. .............$$$▲

the Cliff house At Pikes PeAk

306 cañon ave., Manitou SpringS • 785-1000 • thecliFFhouSe.coM Creative, reasonably priced cuisine with Victorian ambience. ....$$$▲

2012 DINING GUIDE

THE GAZETTE

ConsCious tABle

26 e. kiowa St. • 636-3276 • conSciouStable.net Dedicated to preparing creative dishes using locally sourced and sustainable food. ................................................................................. $$$$

CrAftWood inn

404 el paSo blvd., Manitou SpringS • 685-9000 • craFtwood.coM Colorado-style food is a feature, such as bison and elk, but there are enough other creative dishes to please every taste. .............$$$$▲

dAnny’s Corner Bistro

609 w. Midland ave., woodland park • 687-2233 The small, varied menu changes seasonally, with steak and seafood features. ...........................................................................$$$▲

the fAmous, A steAkhouse

31 n. tejon St. • 227-7333 • theFaMouSSteakhouSe.net The top steakhouse in the city, serving prime beef and excellent seafood. .................................................................................. $$$$

JosePh’s fine dininG

1606 S. eighth St. • 630-3631 • joSephSdining.coM Classic fine dining with some dishes prepared tableside. .................... $$$

mACkenzie’s ChoP house

128 S. tejon St. • 635-3536 • MackenzieSchophouSe.coM The place to be seen. Service is excellent, meat is the name of the game, and the wine list a winner. ...........................................$$$

the mArGAritA At PineCreek

7350 pine creek road • 598-8667 • coloradoeatS.coM/Margarita A local favorite for more than three decades, known for the all-you-can-eat soup-and-salad lunch. .........................................$$$▲

mAriGold CAfÉ & BAkery

4605 centennial blvd. • 599-4776 • MarigoldcoloradoSpringS.coM Well-priced continental cuisine, delicious bakery goods. .........$$$▲

the meltinG Pot

30-a e. pikeS peak ave. • 385-0300 • Meltingpot.coM Romantic fondue meals. Don’t miss the dark chocolate. ................ $$$

monA lisA fondue restAurAnt

733 Manitou ave., Manitou SpringS • 685-0277 • MonaliSaFondue.coM Four-course fondue dinners and an excellent wine bar. .................. $$$

fine dining

motif

2432 W. CuCharras st. • 635-5635 • motifWest.Com Delicious, artfully prepared small plates served Thursdays through Saturdays in a gorgeous west-side venue............................$$$

mountain View RestauRant at Cheyenne mountain ResoRt

3225 Broadmoor Valley road • 538-4000 • Cheyennemountain.Com Known for its buffets, including a huge Sunday brunch................$$$$

moZaiC at the inn at PalmeR DiViDe

Look for our 2nd location opening in June, in the old Van Briggle Pottery building.

443 s. Colorado 105, Palmer lake • 481-1800 • innatPalmerdiVide.Com European cuisine with a touch of nouvelle. ................................... $$▲

muCky DuCk

10530 ute Pass aVe., Green mountain falls • 684-2008 • muCkyduCkCo.Com under the radar • Steak, seafood, escargot and prime rib in a rustic log-cabin setting. The gourmet Sunday brunch is a crowd-pleaser................... $$$

nosh

121 s. tejon st. • 635-6674 • nosh121.Com Food is beyond creative and playfully presented. Not to mention the great selection of small plates. ..................................................... $$

the PePPeR tRee RestauRant

888 W. moreno aVe. • 471-4888 • PePPertreeCs.Com One of the most romantic places on the Front Range, includes tableside preparations. ..........................................................$$$$▲

Exquisite cuisine and extraordinary handcrafted ales accompanied by awe inspiring views of the Pikes Peak range.

Food, Brew & a View

Rabbit hole

101 n. tejon st. • 203-5072 • raBBitholedinner.Com A sophisticated dining experience in a cavelike atmosphere. Great cocktails and late-night menu..................................................................... $$$

sPRings oRleans

123 e. Pikes Peak aVe. • 520-0123 • sPrinGsorleans.Com Elegant dining room, local favorites, excellent Cajun dishes. .........$$$

steaksmith

3802 maizeland road • 596-9300 • steaksmith.Com Great old-fashioned steakhouse that uses Black Angus beef. Has a popular salad bar. .......................................................................... $$$

the sunbiRD

230 Point of the Pines driVe • 598-8990 • thesunBird.Com Big views from its perch on a bluff. Steaks and seafood. ............$$$

swiss Chalet RestauRant

19263 e. u.s. hiGhWay 24, Woodland Park • 687-2001 • sWissChaletofWoodlandPark.Com Mountain views and a cozy dining room recall the Swiss Alps. Menu features classic continental dishes. ............... $$$$▲

tabeguaChe steakhouse

407 e. u.s. hiGhWay 24, Woodland Park • 687-8536 This mountain eatery isn’t fancy, but the food is top-of-the-line. ... $$▲

taPateRia

2607 W. Colorado aVe. • 471-8272 True-to-form Spanish tapas served with an excellent wine list. Also is gluten-free....................................................................................... $

walteR’s bistRo

146 e. Cheyenne mountain BlVd. • 630-0201 • WaltersBistro.Com Elegant dining room where classic bistro fare is served. .................$$$

Serving Lunch and Dinner 7 Days A Week 719.434.5750 • www.CMBrew.com Located at 1-25 and Interquest Parkway

the waRehouse RestauRant anD galleRy

25 W. Cimarron st. • 475-8880 • theWarehouserestaurant.Com Elk, bison, steaks and seafood are all given a gourmet touch. ........... $$$

THE GAZETTE

2012 DINING GUIDE

casual

1st & 10 sports Bar & Grill

CraVe real BurGers

1455 Cipriani Loop, MonuMent • 487-0737 • 1stand10MonuMent.CoM A big, new sports bar specializing in duck wings ............................ $▲

the airplane restaurant

1665 n. newport road • 570-7656 • airpLanerestaurant.CoM Part of the dining room at this restaurant known for its stuffed mushrooms is inside an actual Boeing KC-97. ............................................. $

alpenrose German Deli

5648 s. u.s. HigHway 85/87, seCurity • 392-6464 • aLpenrosedeLi.CoM A market and deli, with great grilled brats. .................................................. $

aspenpointe Café

1675 garden of tHe gods road • 572-6100 • 5069 aCadeMy BLvd • 572-6296 • aspenpointe.org These new cafes help train the disadvantaged and developmentally disabled in the food-service industry. ............................................................ $

BaCk east Bar anD Grill

9474 Briar viLLage point, no. 168 • 264-6161 • BaCkeastBarandgriLL.CoM Great neighborhood sports bar, serious about pizza and sandwiches..$

Barney’s Diner

129 w. Las aniMas st. • 632-1756 UNDER THE RADAR • The first Wednesday of each month is chicken day. Don’t miss it. We also like the burgers and the prices. .................................................................$

Bon ton’s Café

2601 w. CoLorado ave. • 634-1007 • BontonsCafe.CoM Homey breakfast and lunch spot with a great people-watching patio. Try the stuffed french toast. ......................................................... $

Bona Dea tea house & emporium

1824 w. CoLorado ave. • 473-8322• Bonadeatea.CoM Gracious tea-time fare served in a charming Victorian setting. .............. $

BreuGGer’s BaGels

132 n. tejon st. • 635-8548 Deli offering sandwiches, salads, soups and bagels. .................................. $

BierWerks BreWery

BreWer’s repuBliC

121 e. MidLand ave., woodLand park • 686-8100 Premier spot for German-style beers and cold food from Mucky Duck. ... $

112 n. nevada ave. • 633-2105 • BrewersrepuBLiC.CoM A combination brewery and coffee shop. ................................................. $

BiG sarGe’s Grill

Broken Bones smokin’ pit

3117 s. aCadeMy BLvd. • 391-6881 Southern comfort food. Try the stellar fried catfish .................................. $

481 CoLorado 105, paLMer Lake • 487-0471 Family-owned. Good brisket for a great price. ............................................. $

BiG train restaurant

CastaWays

3050 n. nevada ave. • 473-8218 Big, old-fashioned family restaurant with good breakfasts ...................... $

107 Manitou ave. • 685-3300 • Castawaysinn.CoM Steaks and seafood served up in a pirate-themed dining room. ..... $$$$

BirD DoG BBQ

Charlie’s pit BarBeCue/yakiBoB’s

1645 Briargate parkway • 599-4655 Top-quality meat, Oklahoma-style barbecue made from scratch. ..$▲

1190 e. fiLLMore st. • 685-1519 Tender, liberally sauced brisket meets grilled Japanese skewers...... $▲

BJ’s restaurant & BreWhouse

CheDDar’s Casual Cafe

5150 n. nevada ave. • 268-0505 • BjsBrewHouse.CoM/ In-house brewery, great flatbread pizza and gluten-free menu. ............. $

11136 raMpart HiLLs view • 262-7100 • CHeddars.CoM A worthy chain with American fare, a great value............................$$▲

BJ’s VelVet freez

the Coffee exChanGe

1511 n. union BLvd. • 633-6365 • BjsveLvetfreez.CoM A beloved soft-serve ice cream joint with good food. ................................ $

526 s. tejon st. • 635-0277 • tHe-Coffee-exCHange.CoM Friendly coffee spot with downtown charm and great lunches. ......... $

BlaCk Bear Diner

ColoraDo mountain BreWery

975-a n. aCadeMy BLvd. • 314-3616 A chain that doesn’t feel like one, serving old-fashioned comfort food, including terrific breakfasts. Try the sweet cream pancakes. .......... $▲

11202 raMpart HiLLs view • 434.5750 • CMBrew.CoM Classic Americana with a nice selection of beers. Beautiful patio seating. A second, west-side location is coming soon. ............................$$▲

BomBers

ColoraDo smokehouse

460 n. Murray BLvd. • 574-8282 A sports bar and grill. ........................................................................................ $

2012 DINING GUIDE

THE GAZETTE

6679 CaMden BLvd., fountain • 651-1453 • CoLoradosMokeHouse.net Homemade barbecue with made-from-scratch sauces. ........................ $

casual

Conway’s Red Top

3 locations A popular area novelty known for its giant burgers and roadside feel. $

The CoRneR Café

7 E. VErmijo AVE. • 520-1843 • cornErcAfE.com Mom-and-pop dining with old-fashioned goodness. Try the Slopper...... $

Cowboy’s

25 n. tEjon st. • 596-1212 • cowboyscs.com Nightly specials and big dance floor. Known for its two-step and burgers. .. $

CRave ReaL buRgeRs

7465 n. AcAdEmy blVd • 264-7919 • crAVErEAlburgErs.com. Huge, juicy burgers with unusual toppings such as peanut butter, duck and fried eggs. Also old-fashioned milk shakes with an adult spin. ....... $

CuCuRu gaLLeRy Café

2332 w. colorAdo AVE. • 520-9900 • cucurugAllErycAfE.com Quaint eatery serving coffee and tapas, with live music and art. ....... $

Cy’s dRive-in

1833 w. uintAh st. • 630-7008 A retro burger joint that uses Callicrate beef and boasts carhop service. Known for its Alaskan Burger. ............................................................ $

dad’s KwiK inn & bbQ

385 mAin st., sEcurity • 392-5063 • dAdskwikinn.com From breakfast to barbecue, it’s a great neighborhood grub hub. ..... $

daLe sTReeT Café

115 E. dAlE st. • 578.9898 • mydAlEstrEEtcAfE.com A quaint Victorian with sidewalk people-watching and pastas. ....... $$

diamond debs

919 Arcturus driVE • 475-1077 Homemade food — sliders, too — in a pub environment. Great value. .... $

dogTooTh Coffee

505 E. columbiA st. • 632-0125 • dogtoothcoffEE.com Neighborhood hangout with a great selection of paninis. ........................ $

The donuT miLL

310 w. midlAnd AVE., woodlAnd pArk • 687-9793 Try the biscuits and gravy on your way to the slopes............................ $▲

dRaKe hiLL spoRTs baR & gRiLL

3840 n. nEVAdA AVE. • 633-0103 Build-your-own burgers and sandwiches, in the former Cafe El Paso. ........ $

dRifTeR’s hambuRgeRs

4455 mArk dAbling blVd. • 548-8163 • driftErshAmburgErs.com California-style burger joint known for quality meat and ‘Wild Style’ secret sauce. .................................................................................. $

dubLin house spoRTs baR

1850 dominion wAy • 265-8820 Home-style lunch, dinner and drinks. ........................................................... $

The duTCh KiTChen

1025 mAnitou AVE., mAnitou springs • 685-9962 • dutchkitchEn.nEt Known for its pies and great sandwiches. Closed in winter. ................. $▲

duTCh miLL TaveRn

503 1/2 w. colorAdo AVE. • 471-3370 A real bar serving real food. Try the green chili burger. ........................... $

easT CoasT ResTauRanT & deLi

24 s. tEjon st. • 633-4522 The sprawling menu includes New York Jewish deli favorites. ........... $

THE GAZETTE

2012 DINING GUIDE

casual

warren epstein

Owner Kiyon Kim’s effervescent personality balances the Zen-like atmosphere of this upscale Chinese fusion restaurant. Sometimes I go for the splashy dishes like the Grand Marnier Prawns, and sometimes I go for the simple green beans and chicken tossed with some garlic.

arts & culture editor

This new upscale café in the little downtown space formerly inhabited by Bistro de Pinto seems to be the most aggressive locavore crusader, getting extreme about sourcing its foods locally. I also love its inventiveness, particularly the gourmet spins on diner food, such as the shrimp corn dog.

Owner Carlos Echeandia knows good seafood. My must-have dish is the mussels. Not to mention, it’s one of the few places where I’d order raw oysters in the Springs.

The egg & I

5838 Barnes road • 574-5700 • 7816 n. academy Blvd. • 268-0700 • theeggandirestaurants.com Superior breakfast chain with creative menu. Try the Greek Frittata or the Apple Cinnamon Granola Pancake. ......................................................... $

eInsTeIn Bros. Bagels

multiple locations • einsteinBros.com Classic, signature and gourmet bagels baked fresh every day. .............. $

The elephanT Bar

7585 n. academy Blvd. • 532-0032 • elephantBar.com A fusion of cross-continental flavors in an exotic atmosphere. ............$$

2220 academy place • 380-7732 • englishdockside.com Like a southern crab shack off Academy Boulevard. ...............................$$

faerIe Tales Bakehouse anD caTerIng

1015 W. colorado ave.• 375-5651 • faerietalesBakehouseandcatering.com Artful flavors with a delicate touch. Try the Sunday brunch................ $

falcon’s Bar & grIll

8110 n. academy Blvd. • 598-5770 • theacademyhotel.com Inviting casual dining, with fine prime rib, inside the Academy Hotel. ...$$

fargo’s pIzza company

2910 e. platte ave. • 473-5540 • fargospizza.com This Colorado Springs institution is a must-visit for families. .............$

fIrehouse BBQ

817 W. colorado ave. • 447-8829 A popular spot for all-you-can-eat Southern-style ribs. . ...................... $

2012 DINING GUIDE

The Broadmoor’s premier restaurant makes a habit of perfection — whether it’s the juicy Colorado lamb chops or the stunning mountain view.

fIve guys Burgers anD frIes

7252 n. academy Blvd., unit 120 • 264-6400 • fiveguys.com One of the best burger chains, with freshly made fries. .......................$

flaTIrons

2540 tenderfoot hill st. • 576-2540 • flatirons.Biz This local chain is a worthy casual steak and chicken place. ........... $$

flyIng W ranch

3330 chuckWagon road • 598-4000 • flyingW.com A chuckwagon supper with a Wild West show. ..................................... $$

frankIe’s Bar & grIll

945 n. poWers Blvd. • 574-4881 • frankiesBargrill.com The east side’s favorite neighborhood grill. Love the burgers. .......... $

englIsh DocksIDe fresh seafooD & grIll

In my book, this steakhouse is right up against Morton’s or Ruth’s Chris. And while beef is considered king here, the salmon is superb, especially when ordered rare.

THE GAZETTE

frankIe’s Too

7376 mclaughlin road, falcon • 495-8707 • frankiesBargrill.com The sequel is bigger, just as good, resembles Texas Roadhouse in feel. .. $

gasolIne alley

28 n. tejon st. • 636-2244 • gasolinealleycs.com This popular nightspot does have food. Try the shrimp and a cocktail. ... $

glaD’s orIgInal BBQ

3750 astrozon Blvd. • 392-4156 • 1510 chiles ave. on fort carson • 576-1851 • gladsBBq.com Hole-in-the-wall Southern barbecue joint that doesn’t disappoint. Fort Carson site closed temporarily because of construction. ................ $

gooD company

7625 n. union Blvd. • 528-8877 • goodcompanyBar.com Neighborhood bar and grill complete with karaoke. ............................. $

granDmoTher’s kITchen

212 e. u.s. highWay 24, Woodland park • 687-3118 Fans say it’s the place for home-style breakfasts and friendly service. ..........$

casual

THE GRILL AT LATIGO TRAILS

13710 HalleluiaH Trail, elberT • 495-0176 • laTigogrill.com This new, eastern-plains entry is known for its massive Thursday buffets and weekend meals. ............................................................................. $

GRIzzLy’S GRILL AT cHEyEnnE mOunTAIn zOO

4250 cHeyenne mounTain Zoo road • 475-9555 • cmZoo.org Under the radar • Not the kind of spot where you’d expect to find gourmet fare. But the award-winning chef turns out outstanding sandwiches and more-upscale offerings. ...$

i Pan o b i Co m Pepperon

GunTHER TOOdy’S

5794 Palmer Park blvd. • 597-1950 • 5490 e. Woodmen road • 548 1955 • gunTHernToodys.com Step back in time with retro Americana and made-to-order malts. ...$

THE HATcH cOvER

252 e. cHeyenne mounTain blvd. • 576-5223 • HaTcHcover.biZ A friendly dive with a great selection of bar favorites........................... $

HOLy cOw pub & GRILL

5585 sTeTson Hills blvd. • 465-1704 • HolycoWPubandgrill.com Live music, nightly specials and a fabulous rooftop with fire pits. ..... $

THE Hub cAR wASH And dInER

4460 ForesT Hill road • 535-0346 • 6995 lexingTon drive • 536-4870 • Hubdiner.com Car detailing and dining (try the burgers) in one retro stop. ................... $

HunGRy bEAR fAmILy RESTAuRAnT

111 e. midland ave., Woodland Park • 687-5912 • Hungrybearcolorado.com Work up an appetite for this busy breakfast joint. ..................................... $

InES’ cORnER cAfé

s Yo ar ur ye 5 Fam er 3 ily’s I talian Restaurant - For Ov

“This is the best thing l’ve ever tasted!” Buy one Panino get one

1/2 OFF

Expires 5/31/12 • Only one offer per order, table or group allowed

Paninos Downtown 604 N. Tejon St • 719-635-7452 Paninos Broadmoor 1721 S. 8th Street • 719-635-1188 www.paninos.com

Locally Owned & Operated

3132 n. Hancock ave. • 375-0099 Homemade German pastries and traditional American fare. .............. $

JAckIE’S pARkSIdE cAfé And IcE cREAm

311 s. Hancock ave. • 434-2201 Homemade paninis and pies, also made gluten-free. ................................ $

JASOn’S dELI

7455 n. academy blvd. • 302-0234 • jasonsdeli.com This chain is known for its healthy, fresh and organic menu. ............. $

JILL’S kITcHEn

2416 e. boulder sT. • 475-2621 Formerly My Sister’s Kitchen, the original owner has returned to offer a fine Monte Cristo and other quality diner food. ....................................... $

JOAnIE’S bAkERy & dELIcATESSEn

110 e. u.s. HigHWay 24, Woodland Park • 686-9091 Delightful lunch stop with picturesque views....................................... $▲

JOHnny’S nAvAJO HOGAn

2817 n. nevada ave. • 344-9593 Recently revamped roadhouse with a tasty home-style menu. Don’t miss the broasted chicken. Delish!.............................................................. $

JudGE bALdwIn’S

THe anTlers HilTon• 4 s. cascade ave. • 473-5600 A comfortable hotel bar with terrific lobster bisque. ................................ $

JunIpER vALLEy RAncH RESTAuRAnT

souTH u.s. HigHWay 115 • 576-0741 • juniPervalleyrancH.com Family-style fried chicken and ham dinners in a historic mud house ... $$

THE kEG LOunGE

730 maniTou ave., maniTou sPrings• 685-9531 The dive bar with surprisingly good salads and burgers. .......................$$

The Best

Sushi

in the Springs! 531-9368 1760 Dublin Blvd. 227-8690 3276 Centennial Blvd. THE GAZETTE

JUN Japanese Restaurant

2012 DINING GUIDE

casual

famous

HOLIDAY PARTIES & GIFT CERTIFICATES

gary geiser king’S Chef diner oWner

Book Your Holiday Parties Now! Gift Certificates Available!

s u o m a The F A STEAK HOUSE

www.thefamoussteakhouse.net www.thefamoussteakhouse.net Downtown ColoraDo SpringS DOWNTOWN COLORADO SPRINGS

31 n. tejon719-227-7333 | 719-227-7333 31 N. TEJON

y r g n Hu et?

King’s Chef diner

131 e. Bijou St. • 636-5010 • 110 e. CoStilla St. • 634-9135 • kingSChefdiner.Com From a late-night bar-hopping breakfast to a business lunch, homestyle dining that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Try the green chili cheeseburger or “The Thing,” the signature, massive breakfast creation. ........ $

Maggie Mae’s

2405 e. PikeS Peak ave. • 475-1623 Homey meals in a pub atmosphere. Try the Bistro French Toast ............ $

The Mansion

20 n. tejon St. • 640-1350 • CSnightCluBS.Com A strong late-night menu comes in handy after hours of dancing. .... $

Margo’s Vienna sTaTion

3442 W. Colorado ave. • 630-7453 Cute, tiny train depot that serves some of the best hot dogs in the region. ................................................................................................... $

The Mason Jar

2925 W. Colorado ave.• 632-4820 • maSonjarColorado.Com The family-friendly eatery is best known for its crispy, tender chicken-fried steak. ............................................................................................ $

The MaTé faCTor

966 manitou ave., manitou SPringS • 685-3235 A small place where you can enjoy well-made sandwiches, soups and maté. .................................................................................................. $

MaxiMillian’s Cafe “Tastiest Breakfast in Colorado” Food Network Magazine 2010 Two Downtown Locations Serving Breakfast & Lunch All Day Late Nights Thursday, Friday & Saturday 9pm to 4:00am ish Colorado’s Best Since 1956

w w w. K i n g s C h e f D i n e r. c o m 110 E. Costilla Street • 719.634.9135 • 8am to 2:00pm ish 131 Bijou Street • 719.636.5010 • 7am to 4:00pm ish

209 e. midland ave., Woodland Park • 686-0873 • maximillianSCafe.net A family-owned restaurant offering hormone-free fare. ...................... $

MeadoW MUffins

2432 W. Colorado ave. • 633-0583 Inexpensive burgers and bar food in a funky, eclectic atmosphere. .......... $

MeTroPolis

1201 W. Colorado ave. • 227-9888 American cuisine at reasonable prices. Frequent live entertainment. ..$

Mildred’s Café

4645 fountain ave., CaSCade • 684-7855 • mildredSCafe Classic 1950s diner in a mountain setting, serving classic diner food. .. $

MiMi’s Cafe

7133 n. aCademy Blvd. • 590-1357 • 3005 neW Center Point • 622-8600 • mimiSCafe.Com A touch of France for American tastes. Don’t miss the muffins. ............. $

2012 DINING GUIDE

THE GAZETTE

casual

Montague’s Parlour

1019 S. Tejon ST. • 520-0672 UNDER THE RADAR • A lovely spot right out of an English novel. Montague’s offers a wide range of teas and a small, well-executed food menu. .....................................$

Healthy & Authentic Thai Food

Mo’s Diner & lounge

108 ManiTou ave., ManiTou SpringS • 685-5286 Busy breakfast and lunch spot with retro style. .......................................... $

Mountain shaDows restaurant

2223 W. Colorado ave. • 633-2122 This quirky little place is famous for its breakfasts and its peoplewatching opportunities...................................................................................... $

nana’s Kitchen

7117 MClaughlin road, FalCon • 494-1503 Homey Colorado and Oklahoma cuisine, with fresh green chili, catfish, chicken fry and the Big Burrito Challenge (record: 6 pounds in 6 minutes, 7 seconds).................................................................................... $

naturally’s MarKet anD cafe

110 Cañon ave, ManiTou SpringS • 685-0555 • naTurallyS.neT Fresh organic taste, especially breakfast, in an inviting atmosphere. ... $

north enD Diner

3005 n. hanCoCk ave. • 422-1833 • norThenddiner.CoM Family-owned traditional diner with daily blue plate specials. ................ $

o’furry’s

900 e. FillMore ST. • 634-3106 • oFurryS.CoM Great for weeknights after work. Wings fly off the plates here............... $

olD chicago

MulTiple loCaTionS • oldChiCago.CoM Sports-bar chain with 100 microbrews and good deep-dish pizza.. ..$

www.arharnthai.net Tel: 719-596-6559 • Closed every Wednesday 3739 3739 Bloomington St, Colorado Springs, CO 80922

olDe worlD Bagel & Deli

1670 e. Cheyenne MounTain Blvd. • 527-9651 • oldeWorldBagel.CoM Locally owned; freshly made bagels with a creative, Old World flair.. $

the olive Branch

23 S. Tejon ST. • 475-1199 • TheoliveBranChreST.CoM Lively lunch and dinner spot, but it’s breakfast that shines. ................ $

w w w. b h a n t h a i c o . c o m

oliver’s Deli

6602 delMoniCo drive. • 599-9411 A popular neighborhood deli, with sandwiches and baked goods. ......... $

HOURS Mon - Sat 11.00 am - 9.00 pm

Sunday Closed 1025 N. Academy Blvd. Colorado Springs, CO 80909 Since 2002

o’Malley’s irish PuB

104 S. Colorado 105, palMer lake • 488-0321 • oMalleySWingS.CoM A cook-your-own-steak place, with a full menu available until 2 a.m. ...$

Tel. 719-574-3401 Fax. 719-574-4514 THE GAZETTE

2012 DINING GUIDE

casual

teresa farney

The newest addition to The Broadmoor’s collection of restaurants is a stylish place I’d like to visit every night. It’s just so inviting, with a short menu of world-class, creative morsels and a comfortable yet elegant setting. I like to stop for a quick, light dinner with a reasonably priced glass of wine. Let the sommeliers surprise you with one of their recent finds.

food columnist

I especially like the variety of dishes on the menu at Lemongrass. It has traditional Vietnamese dishes, but mixes it up with other specials, too. And it dazzles with desserts including bean puddings and outstanding crème brulée.

Nothing is hurried here, as most dishes are made to order with love. The reward is getting filled up with exotic foods spiked with friendly conversation; that’s living life to its fullest.

It’s like the movie “Big Night” every night at Franco Pisani and Ted Sexton’s neighborhood hangout. It’s been our pick for Christmas Eve dinner for years.

What could keep a group of people happier than leaving their shoes at the door, sitting on the floor and eating authentic Moroccan food with their fingers?

The OmeleTTe ParlOr

900 E. FillmorE St. • 633-7770 • co-SpgS-omElEttEparlor.com Made-to-order omelettes, a favorite breakfast spot for locals. ... $▲

OmeleTTes eTc.

1616 S. Eighth St. • 634-7321 • omElEtSEtc.com Busy, family-owned joint. They know their omelettes, as you’d expect .... $

On The BOulevard

2855 N. murray Blvd. • 471-4424 • oN-thE-BoulEvard.com Neighborhood sports bar with extensive burger menu and house-made soup................................................................................................ $

Oscar’s On TejOn

333 S. tEjoN St. • 471-8070 • oScarSoyStErBar.com Crawfish, oysters and live entertainment. Grab some gumbo while you’re there. .......................................................................................... $

PaTTy jeWeTT Bar & GrIll

900 E. ESpañola St. • 385-6944 A great old-fashioned spot for lazy afternoons, especially during the summer. ....................................................................................... $

PB & jellIes

106 E. Kiowa St. • 465-2686 • pBaNdjElliES.com Quirky varieties of peanut butter and jelly, locally sourced, with a good deli. .............................................................................................. $

The PeaK GrIll

4423 cENtENNial Blvd. • 260-6905 Basic American fare that shines at breakfast. ............................................ $

PhanTOm canyOn BreWInG cO.

2 E. piKES pEaK avE. • 635-2800 • phaNtomcaNyoN.com The city’s best brewpub has top brews and very good food. .......... $

Panera Bread

PhaT haTTIes

The PanTry

The POInT

multiplE locatioNS • paNEraBrEad.com Hang out with free Wi-Fi over breakfast or lunch at this chain ............. $

6980 laKE St., grEEN mouNtaiN FallS • 684-9018 Home-style cooking, where the cinnamon rolls are huge, fresh and yummy. Try the cinnamon roll french toast. ...................... $▲

PaPa jOe’s

1169 N. circlE drivE • 434-5755 • phathattiES.com Terrific barbecue. Try the brisket, which is fork-tender. ........................... $

1545 S. Eighth StrEEt • 473-1155 Friendly atmosphere. Burgers and shoestring fries. .............................. $

POOr rIchard’s

3003 N. El paSo St. • 633-8212 Traditional pizza and pasta. ............................................................................. $

320 N. tEjoN St. • 578-0012 • poorrichardSdowNtowN.com Neighborhood hangout with great pizza by the slice as well as healthy fare. Try the house salad with house dressing.......................... $

ParadOX lOunGe

rhInO’s sPOrTs & sPIrITs

528 S. tEjoN St. • 444-8487 This is the cocktail lounge and tapas bar at the back of SouthSide Johnny’s. ........................................................................................... $

2012 DINING GUIDE

THE GAZETTE

4307 iNtEgrity cENtEr poiNt • 578-0608 • rhiNoSBar.com A sprawling menu of traditional bar food and more. ............................ $

casual

THE RESTAURANTS AT THE BROADMOOR

BEN STEpHENS

From Five Star, Five Diamond dining to authentic English pub fun, we have it all.

The paNTry owNer

RICO’S COFFEE, CHOCOLATE AND WINE BAR

322 1/2 N. TejoN ST. • 630-7723 • poorrichardSdowNTowN.com The swankiest entry in the Poor Richard’s complex, it boasts a good wine list and a good selection of tapas. You can also order from Poor Richard’s menu. .............................................................. $

PENROSE ROOM Colorado’s only Five Star, Five Diamond restaurant

RITZ GRILL

15 S. TejoN ST. • 635-8484 • riTzgrill.com Surprisingly nuanced food and good service. Restaurant turns to nightclub at night, with live entertainment ...................... $▲

ROCK BOTTOM RESTAuRANT AND BREWERY

CHARLES COURT American food & wine with a focus on local ingredients

3316 ciNema poiNT • 550-3586 • rockboTTom.com/colorado-SpriNgS In-house microbrews, good made-from-scratch food and lots of TVs. Try the meatloaf ..................................................................... $$

ROSIE’S DINER

11550 ridgeliNe driVe. SuiTe 128 • 488-4753 • 411 colorado 105, moNumeNT • 481-3287 • eaTaTroSieS.com Every bit the traditional diner inside and out, including the food. ......... $

RuDIMENTS CAFE

5863 palmer park blVd. • 434-5999 • rudimeNTScafe.com Great sandwiches and wraps. .......................................................................... $

SUMMIT An American brasserie with a contemporary design and innovative cocktail program

RuDY’S COuNTRY STORE AND BAR-B-Q

315 S. 31ST ST. • 471-4120 • rudyS.com This Texas chain serves up slow-cooked barbecue on paper plates at picnic tables. Try the decadent, moist brisket.........................................$

SANDY’S

6940 Space Village aVe. • 596-9881 Trucker and rancher hangout with amazingly good home-style food. .. $

TAVERN The best steaks and seafood in town for over 70 years

SHELDON’S LuNCHEONETTE

310 eighTh ST. • 520-1654 • 204 mouNT View laNe • 599-0887 An old-fashioned dining experience where butter is not a dirty world.. $

SHuGA’S RESTAuRANT & BAR

702 S. caScade aVe. • 328-1412 • ShugaS.com A hipster spot offering a solid, interesting menu and yummy cocktails. Try the Spicy Brazilian Coconut Shrimp Soup. ............... $$

SKI BARISTA

124 e. cheyeNNe mouNTaiN blVd. • 576-7542 The robust lunch menu features sandwiches, quiche and more. ............ $

THE GOLDEN BEE Colorado Springs’ traditional English pub for 50 years

SLAYTON’S TEjON STREET GRILL

28-a S. TejoN ST. • 471-2311 • SlayToNSbbq.com Good food, including the chopped burnt ends sandwich. .......................$$

SMASHBuRGER

5320 N. NeVada aVe., SuiTe 100 • 219-0500 • 3707 bloomiNgToN ST. • 574-4126 • SmaShburger.com This Denver chain delivers delicious handcrafted burgers. ..................$

Visit BroadmoorDining.com or call Broadmoor Dining Reservations at 719.577.5733 THE GAZETTE

2012 DINING GUIDE

casual

Smiley’S Bakery and Café

323 N. TejoN ST. • 328-9447 A local favorite, Smiley’s serves up comfort food with friendly service. You can’t go wrong with the fresh fruit pancakes .............. $

SouthSide Johnny’S

528 S. TejoN ST. • 444-8487 • SouThSidejohNNyS.biz Likable food, including fine burgers, cheerful service and good prices. Try the Kobe Burger Sliders on pretzel rolls ........................... $

terrazza grill

SpiCe of life

727 MaNiTou ave., MaNiTou SpriNgS • 685-5284 • MaNiTouSpiceoflife.coM Hit the market after breakfast, dessert or coffee in the café. ............. $

StageCoaCh inn

702 MaNiTou ave., MaNiTou SpriNgS • 685-9400 • STagecoachiNN.coM It’s got all the tourist bells and whistles, but also quaint creekside dining and reliable food. Try the amazing fried chicken. ................$$▲

SuBS and SuCh

337 N. circle drive • 574-4054 A diverse menu that specializes in subs and Korean fare. ....................... $

SuSie’S WeStSide Cafe

1686 S. 21ST ST. • 442-0090 Friendly atmosphere, great view and authentic comfort food. Try the biscuits and gravy. ............................................................................ $▲

taSte of philly

four locaTioNS • TaSTeofphilly.biz This menu will satisfy all your guilty-pleasure cravings. .......................$

terrazza grill

1005 W. colorado ave. • 487-1933 • blackTiegourMeT.coM under the radar • It’s easy to miss, but worth a stop for salads, breakfasts and the amazing white pizza. ......$$

the thirSty parrot

32 S. TejoN ST. • 884-1094 • ThirSTyparroT.NeT This downtown bar serves likable food, including good green chili. ......$

thunder & ButtonS ii

2415 W. colorado ave. • 447-9888 • ThuNderaNdbuTToNS.coM Reliable food, lots of TVs and friendly service............................................. $

tino’S plaCe

2355 e. plaTTe place • 375-1886 A greasy spoon in the best tradition. ............................................................. $

tony’S

311 N. TejoN ST. • 228-6566 • ToNySdoWNToWNbar.coM Tony’s is the very definition of a neighborhood bar, with a solid menu that includes fried cheese curds and Wisconsin-style fish fries. ... $

trinity BreWing Co.

1466 gardeN of The godS road, No. 184 • 634-0029 • TriNiTybreW.coM Good food that’s also interesting, including salmon sliders, the bacon cone and sweet potato mash mole enchiladas.. .................. $

unCle guido’S

811 cheyeNNe MeadoWS road • 538-8600 As befits its name, it’s serving up Italian dishes. The smoker for Howards Pit Barbecue is gone and Howards is specializing in catering ... $

2012 DINING GUIDE

THE GAZETTE

unCle Sam’S panCake houSe

341 MaNiTou ave. • 685-9525 The cute A-frame with traditional breakfasts. ............................................. $

Wade’S Café

3504 N. acadeMy blvd. • 596-8122 • WadeS-cafe.coM Serving the Springs since 1953, offering comfort food in a friendly setting and some of the best pancakes you can get in the Springs. .. $

WeStern omelette

16 S. WalNuT ST. • 636-2286 • WeSTerNoMeleTTe.coM Great breakfasts and some heavy-duty green chili. Unless you have asbestos for taste buds, go with the mild. ...................................... $

Will’S SportS puB

424 S. Nevada ave. • 475-2122 • liquidcoMMoN.coM/WillSSporTSpub Traditional bar fare. ........................................................................................ $

the WineS of Colorado

8045 W. uS highWay 24, caScade • 684-0900 • WiNeSofcolorado.coM Out-of-the-way spot with creekside dining. Offers terrific burgers, including a buffalo wine burger. .......................................... $▲

Wooglin’S deli

823 N. TejoN ST. • 578-9443 • WoogliNSdeli.coM You can find a surprising variety of food at this beloved college hangout. Try the burgers, the tuna salad or the quesadillas. .................. $

Wyatt’S puB and grill

806 village ceNTer drive • 598 4100 • WyaTTSpubaNdgrill.coM Karaoke, live music and sports in this family neighborhood grill, former home to Slayton’s BBQ. ....................................................................... $

yukon roCk and roll grill

525 S. circle drive • 465-2395 Reborn under a new name, Yukon offers a menu of solid bar food. Try the nachos or Sled Dog sliders. ................................................................ $

cajun

cajun Buster O’Brian’s Cafe

727 Gold hill place, woodland park • 686-8098 Don’t let the Irish name fool you, Buster O’Brian’s serves up some spicy Cajun. ............................................................................................... $

mexican

Enjoy

Culpepper’s

6502 S. academy Blvd. • 282-8479 • culpepperS.net Traditional Louisiana cuisine served in a strip mall setting. Try the chicken and sausage gumbo. ..............................................$★

nawlins Bar BQ & seafOOd

3317 cinema point • nawlinSBarBq.com Authentic Cajun recipes. Try the Creole Jambalaya Platter or Alligator Green Chili Burger. Don’t forget the beignets. ........................ $★

nawlins Bar BQ & seafOOd

Great Food & Colorado Wines Creekside Dining Join us for Complimentary Wine Tasting We would like to thank you with a

3 Margaritas

three locations Festive restaurant, reliable food, accessible flavors. ........................$$▲

albertaco Mexican Food

5710 S. U.S. HigHway 85/87, FoUntain • 393-1687 • 405 n. Union Blvd. • 667-7268 Good food, good prices and open 24 hours a day. ...................................... $

alFonso’s

1022 S. 21St St. • 575-9289 You won’t leave Alfonso’s hungry or broke. Try the carnitas burrito. .... $

aManda’s Fonda

3625 w. Colorado ave. • 227-1975 Check out the creekside patio, the perfect place to sip margaritas and sample the chiles rellenos. . ........................................ $

arceo’s

1605 S. nevada ave • 442-2626 • 4608 rUSina road • 264-0143 Arceo’s sports over-the-top Mexican décor, festive folk music and dozens of lunch dishes for $5 or less............................................................. $

$7.00 Gift Certificate

Enjoy $7.00 off with the purchase of 2 entrée items.

Expires 1/31/12 EXCLUDES NIGHTLY SPECIALS. Excludes holidays. • Not valid with other offers.

Open 10:30 - 8:30 • 7 Days a Week 8045 West Hwy 24 • Cascade, CO 684-0900 (In Cascade take Pikes Peak Hwy)

bean bandit

8045 West Highway 24 Cascade, Colorado

big burrito

684-0900

320 n CirCle drive • 634-9945 • 2819 n. nevada ave. • 634-9946 A solid, longtime favorite on Circle Drive, now with a second location on North Nevada Avenue. ................................................................................ $

3659 aUStin BlUFFS Parkway • 598-0843 Authentic taqueria-style food served in big, American-style portions. . $

www.winesofcolorado.com THE GAZETTE

2012 DINING GUIDE

mexican

If I’m ever reported missing, you’ll find me at Trinity. Food and beers are fantastic — especially the Farmhouse Saison, which varies based on the season and brewer’s mood. I once had a pink-tinged beet version that was as delicious as it was novel.

We all have restaurants where we must, must, must order the same thing because we cannot pass it up. One of mine is Little Nepal’s sweet potato masala, though I have yet to have a bad dish at Little Nepal. With a solid saag paneer in addition to my favorite, it’s a great choice for vegetarians.

Here, the pizza crust is always crisp, tomato sauce fresh and the experience fun. The fact that local produce and meats are heavily featured is a bonus, but I am a patron based on taste alone.

For special occasions, I eat here. The décor is enchanting, and the chef is talented. The Mushroom en Croûte is always a crowd-pleaser, and the veranda is fun for peoplewatching.

La’au’s offers tacos with tasty options like peanut-miso Huli Chicken and Mahi Mahi with Baja spice, accompanied by such toppings as fresh pico and corn salsa, green papaya, mango.

Carlos Miguel’s

110 E. ChEyEnnE Mountain Blvd. • 527-0500 • 9605 ProMinEnt Point • 282-7890 An upscale take on Guadalajara-style dishes. ....................................... $$

Crystal Park Cantina

178 Crystal Park road., Manitou sPrings • 685-5999 • CrystalParkCantina.CoM under the radar • This new cantina in the old Mission Bell Inn has a small, creative menu and drinks. We love the chiles rellenos and the Mexican Alfredo sauce. ..................$

el Padrino MexiCan restaurant

13425 voyagEr Parkway • 487-2727 A swanky-looking Mexican joint serving humble fare. ........................ $$

el Poblano

908 n. CirClE drivE • 632-1971 This little lunch spot serves the usual Mexican canon, and does it better than most. It also has Central American dishes you almost never see in Colorado........................................................................... $

el ranChito CarniCeria no. 3

1714 MontErEy road • 630-0150 At the back of a Mexican market, it serves up some of the best, most authentic taqueria-style soft tacos in town. ...................................... $

el suPer taCo

2720 s. aCadEMy Blvd. • 392-2277 • 1485 JaMBorEE drivE • 266-6633 Authentic preparation and fresh ingredients, including some of the best tacos in town. ................................................................................. $

el taCo rey

330 E. Colorado avE. • 475-9722 • EltaCorEy.CoM A great place for people-watching. The avocado pork burritos smothered in green chili are a Colorado Springs institution............ $

2012 DINING GUIDE

THE GAZETTE

kate jonuska dining critic

estella’s

925 s. Eighth st. • 575-0244 Good midlevel Mexican comfort food. ........................................................... $

everything Fajita

6620 dElMoniCo drivE, unit B • 482-6846 • EvErythingfaJita.CoM This local, family-owned restaurant aims to be “everything” for fajitas. .............................................................................................................. $

Fiesta jalisCo

6074 stEtson hills Blvd. • 573-8813 • fiEstaJalisCo.nEt The original margaritas are a favorite at this little spot that also serves flavorful fare including Albondigas soup. .....................$$

Fiesta MexiCana

420 w. Midland avE., woodland Park • 687-3551 Festive atmosphere, friendly service and inventive takes on traditional Mexican staples. .............................................................................. $

Flow oF MexiCo

16 E. BiJou st. • 633-2526 Located in the heart of downtown, Flow offers traditional fare. ............. $

jorge’s

2427 w. Colorado avE. • 634-9031 Poised to reopen after months of renovation, Jorge’s serves big, Pueblo-style Mexican dishes. .......................................................................... $

jose Muldoon’s

222 n. tEJon st. • 636-2311 • 5710 s. CarEfrEE CirClE • 574-5673 • JosEMuldoons.CoM The spot to hit after work, it boasts Taco Tuesdays all day at the downtown location and Thirsty Thursdays at the Carefree Circle location. Try the Pollo Topolobampo......................... $

mexican

La Carreta

35 Iowa ave. • 477-1157 Authentic food in a lovely little family-run restaurant. Try the chiles rellenos. ..................................................................................................... $

La Casa Fiesta

230 Front St., MonuMent • 481-1234 • lacaSaFIeSta.net A local favorite for 14 years. It offers a broad selection of salads as well as standard fare. ............................................................................... $

La Casita MexiCan GriLL

La PerLa taPatia

three locatIonS • lacaSItaMexIgrIll.coM This local chain offers tasty strips of beef and chicken smoking from the grill, a giant salsa bar and prices that are only slightly north of fast food. Try the tamales. ...........................................................$

La FLor De JaLisCo

5520 S. u.S. hIghway 85/87, no. 103 • 392-4571 Traditional Mexican spot in Security. ............................................................. $

La UniCa aUtentiCo

3317 w. colorado ave. • 633-7499 under the radar • Intimate setting, good prices and darn good food. .....................................................................$

La Mission

7634 MclaughlIn road, Falcon • 495-7052 Standard fare with notable standouts, including Mexican coleslaw. ...... $

Las CazUeLas

La PerLa taPatia

1855 n. cIrcle drIve • 799-6620 Spanking-new taqueria tucked in an old shopping center, where Magic Wok was. ....................................................................................... $

4737 n. acadeMy Blvd. • 228-6006 under the radar • La Perla had been our favorite little taqueria. Now it has become a full-service restaurant with an expanded menu, and at press time it was close to getting a liquor license. ................................ $

Las PaLMitas

6805 corporate drIve • 260-9393 Huge portions of thoughtfully prepared traditional Mexican food. .... $★

La sinaLoense

the LooP

642 S. acadeMy Blvd. • 550-1213 Another Taco Triangle fave, this one with a sensational bakery. ................ $

965 ManItou ave., ManItou SprIngS • 685-9344 • theloopatManItou.coM A vast menu of huge margaritas and an equally broad menu of Mexican favorites. .......................................................................................... $

Tea at the

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Glen Eyrie Full Color Ad to run in Gazette Dining Guide

gleneyrie.org THE GAZETTE

2012 DINING GUIDE

mexican

german

Luna Market

280 S. AcAdemy Blvd. • 597-3192 A Taco Triangle favorite offering authentic taqueria-style soft tacos, ceviche and much more. ............................................................... $

Maria’s taco shop

pobLano’s

2812 e. PikeS PeAk Ave. • 471-4525 Good prices and the best fish tacos in town. ............................................... $

Monica’s taco shop

5829 PAlmer PArk Blvd. • 597-7022 • 30 e. Fillmore St. • 473-1996 Great basic Mexican fast food. .................................................................... $

pobLano’s

7336 mclAughlin roAd, FAlcon • 494-0700 Family owned and operated, with 40 items under $10. ........................ $

puebLo Viejo Mexican restaurant

5598 north AcAdemy Blvd. • 266-1999 • 5934 StetSon hillS Blvd. • 638-6040 Reliable food, good service and terrific, egg-battered chiles rellenos...$$

rancho aLegre

1899 S. nevAdA Ave. • 329-1276 An extensive menu. People love the hot chips and zesty salsa. .......... $

rancho Liborio

1660 S. circle drive • 444-8600 The region’s largest Mexican market offers a dizzying array of dishes to take home or eat at one of the in-store picnic tables. ............. $

rita’s

405 n. union Blvd. • 667-7268 Basic, homey Mexican food served by friendly people. ............................. $

rodoLfo’s Mexican griLL

taco star

605 n. circle drive • 520-3599 • 318 n. wAhSAtch Ave. • 630-3646 Authentic taqueria tacos beat the heck out of the nearby fast-food options. ................................................................................................ $

tortiLLeria deLicias

513 S. circle drive • 471-2244 Traditional Mexican fare. ................................................................................... $

VaLLejo’s

111 S. coronA St. • 635-0980 • Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, it continues to be a homey local fave. ............................................................................................. $

15932 JAckSon creek PArkwAy, monument • 487-9410 A new, authentic taqueria next to the Cinemark. Great shrimp and carne asada. ................................................................................................. $

rudy’s LittLe hideaway

925 S. eighth St. • 632-9527 This Mexican-style diner, which had been in the Travelodge, has expanded into a fine full-service cantina............................................... $

saLsa braVa fresh Mexican griLL

9420 BriAr villAge Point • 955-6650 • 802 villAge center drive • 266-9244 • SAlSABrAvAonline.com Mexican food kicked up a notch. ............................................................ $★

28 e. rio grAnde St. • 328-1513 • SAlSAlAtinAS.com under the radar • This spin-off of El Taco Rey offers a similar menu and much more seating....................$

señor ManueL’s Mexican cuisine

660 n. nevAdA Ave. • 598-3033 • SenormAnuel.com Wide-ranging menu of nicely prepared fare served in huge portions. ..$$

28B S. teJon St. • 471-9222 • SonterrAgrill.com This downtown spot offers upscale Mexican/Southwestern food with a twist. Try the Blue Corn Shrimp & Lobster Enchiladas. ..................... $★

2012 DINING GUIDE

ElkE’s GErman dEli

6922 mEsa RidgE PaRkway, Fountain • 393-0964 • schnitzElFRitz.com A fun little shop with good specials and everyday deli fare. .................... $

4037 tutt Blvd. • 573-2000 • schnitzElFRitz.com A market and deli, this place has a good lunch menu and full market of German products. ........................................................................ $★

schnitzEl kinG

5644 u.s. highway 85/87 • 638-4974 A vast list of schnitzels and other German fare is absolutely authentic and not for the small of tummy. ................................................... $

UwE’s

sonterra griLL /

34 E. Ramona avE. • 633-2220 • EdElwEissREst.com German favorites in a quasi-idealized Bavarian setting. .....................$$★

schnitzEl Fritz

saLsa Latina

EdElwEiss

THE GAZETTE

31 iowa avE. • 475-1611 Leave your diet at home when you hit this German comfort food mecca. ....................................................................................$$★

ethiopian

italian

Uchenna

2501 W. Colorado ave. • 634-5070 • uChennalive.Com under the radar • Slow-cooked, family-style cuisine served at leisurely pace. Try anything vegetarian..............$★

BamBino’s italian eatery and sports Bar

2849 E. PlattE avE. • 630-8121 • bambinosPizza.com Popular pasta and pizza bar. ............................................................................ $

Bella panini

4 colorado HigHway 105, PalmEr lakE • 481-3244 • bEllaPanini.com Pizza, pasta, panini and a great wine selection. ................................... $$▲

Biaggi’s ristorante italiano

1805 briargatE Parkway • 262-9500 • biaggis.com Enjoy a meal out or on a busy, busy day grab a 4-5 person Pronto Pack: pasta choice, salad and bread with butter for dippin’. .............................$$

Billy’s olde World pizza

308 s. EigHtH st., suitE E • 630-3400 • billysPizza.nEt Popular pizza bar, but grab your pie when it comes out hot and fresh. ................................................................... $

Borriello Brothers

8 locations • 884-2020 • borriEllobrotHErs.com Hand-tossed New York pizza pies with out-of-the-box ingredients ..$$★

dat’s italian

2514 w. colorado avE. • 632-3287 • datsitalian.com Good Italian street food at a good value. Live music. ................................ $

extreme pizza

2130 soutHgatE road, suitE 108 • 634-1616 • 7340 n. acadEmy blvd. • 522-1515 • ExtrEmEPizza.com Variety of pizzas. ...............................................................................................$$

Ficco’s little italy

1105 s. tEjon st. • 434-7868 New spot serving Italian comfort food. ......................................................... $

Fratelli ristorante italiano

124 n. nEvada avE. • 575-9571 • fratElliristorantE.com Italian fine dining in the heart of downtown. ....................................... $$

The only Casino in Cripple Creek under the same management for over 20 Years!

A True Colorado Style Casino

where the the jackpot cannons roar… the confetti flies… and where we do what we do best…

719.689.2142 233 E. Bennett Avenue Cripple Creek, CO 80813 broncobillyscasino.com 233 E. Bennett Avenue

THE GAZETTE

2012 DINING GUIDE

italian

indian

Il VIcIno Wood-oVen PIzza

11 S. Tejon ST. • 475-9224 • ilvicino.com A popular place on Tejon’s restaurant row. Good thin-crust pizza. ... $▲

Joey’s PIzza

1829 BriargaTe Blvd. • 265-6922 New York-style pizza, strombolis and calzones. .......................................... $

la zInGaRa at GleneaGle

gleneagle golf courSe • 304-3434 • lazingaraaTgleneagle.com Beautiful spot, Italian fare, Saturday and Sunday brunch. .............$$▲

leon GessI PIzza

1806 Palmer Park Blvd. • 635-1542 • leongeSSiPizza.com A longtime favorite for local pizza lovers. .................................................... $

loUIe’s PIzza

3 locaTionS • louieS-Pizza.com Lots of fans.......................................................................................................... $

RobeRt & laURIe tUst rocco’S chef and Wife

lUIGI’s

947 S. Tejon ST. • 632-7339 • luigiScoloradoSPringS.com Family-owned dinner destination since 1958. ............................................$$

MaRco’s PIzza

9420 Briar village PoinT • 434-3773 • marcoS.com Fans from all over the country are familiar with Marco’s. ........................ $

MaRIlyn’s HoUse of PIzza

964 maniTou ave., maniTou SPringS • 685-9104 Specializes in creative, unusual toppings. ................................................... $

RUffRano’s Hell’s kItcHen

9 ruxTon ave., maniTou SPringS • 685-4355 Fresh ingredients, great quality, feels like a cozy New York or Chicago Italian eatery. ................................................................................. $

tHe VIlla at PalMeR lake

75 S. colorado highWay 105, Palmer lake • 481-2222 • ThevillaPalmerlake.com Italian specialties and dishes from the owners’ defunct B & E Filling Station. .................................................................................$$▲

MollIca’s ItalIan MaRket & delI

985 garden of The godS road, SuiTe a• 598-1088 Family owned and operated, with traditional Italian dishes from Grandpa’s recipes, delicious desserts. ........................................................$$

PanIno’s

The Curry Leaf

604 n. Tejon ST. • 635-7452 • 1721 S. eighTh ST. • 635-1188 • PaninoS.com A neighborhood spot that specialize in good, no-nonsense food, with good prices. ..................................................................................... $

26 S. WahSatch ave., No. a • 447-0608 • curryleafreStauraNt.com This tiny, family-owned spot is not fancy, but it serves up lots of flavor and the best dahl curry in the Springs. .................................... $★

PaRaVIcInI’s ItalIan bIstRo

everesT NepaL resTauraNT

2802 W. colorado ave. • 471-8200 • ParaviciniS.com Neighborhood spot serving solid fare with flair. Try the Veal Giuseppe or the Eggplant Parmesan........................................................$$★

PIzzeRIa RUstIca

2527 W. colorado ave. • 632-8121 • PizzeriaruSTica.com An intimate dining room, to-die-for Neapolitan pizza, ingredients from the patio garden. ......................................................$$★

Rocco’s

3878 maizeland road • 574-1426 • roccoScolorado.com Around for more than 25 years, it boasts a creative chef and unusual dishes. ..............................................................................................$$★

RoMan VIlla PIzza

3005 n. nevada ave. • 635-1806 A homey little spot favored by several generations of hungry fans. Try the Lasagna......................................................................................... $

2012 DINING GUIDE

THE GAZETTE

28 e.Bijou St. • 473-3890 • evereSttiBetimportS.com Known for its convenient downtown location and lunch buffet. .........$

INdIa paLaCe resTauraNT

5644 N. academy Blvd. • 535-9196 New ownership has put an apparently higher emphasis on service. ...$$

LITTLe NepaL

1747 S. eighth St. • 477-6997 • lNepal.com Best overall Indian-Nepalese place in town. Delectable curries, balanced spices. ............................................................................ $$

MIrCh MasaLa

5047 N. academy Blvd. • 599-0003 • mirchmaSalacuiSiNe.com Fun atmosphere, impressive lunch buffet. ..............................................$$★

TasTe of INdIa

4820 fliNtridge drive • 598-3428 • taSteofiNdiaSpriNgS.com Good saag paneer, butter chicken and tandoori. .....................................$$

IRISH

the GoLden Bee

The Broadmoor • 1 lake ave. • 577-5776 • Broadmoor.com under the radar • Join the nightly sing-alongs in this popular spot, which serves traditional Irish ales and pub foods. .................................................................................................$

HAWAIIAN

ASIAN

the GoLden Bee

Jack Quinn irish aLehouse & puB

21 s. TejoN sT. • 385-0766 • jackquiNNspuB.com Serving a full menu of Irish fare in a pub atmosphere, with live entertainment. ............................................................................................ $

MccaBe’s tavern

520 s. TejoN sT. • 633-3300 • mcaBesTaverN.com This Irish tavern offers reliable food and Colorado Springs’ largest selection of domestic and imported beers on tap. ............... $★

La’au’s taco shop

830 N. TejoN sT. • 578-5228 • laausTacoshop.com A favorite of the college crowd, it offers a tasty fusion of Hawaii and Latin America. ................................................................... $★

L&L hawaiian

5850 BarNes road • 570-1888 • hawaiiaNBarBecue.com under the radar • This chain barbecue place offers Asian fusion dishes from the Hawaiian Islands. ..................$★

2000 wok

115 E. FillmorE St. • 633-6900 You pay by the scoop here and, at less than $2 each, it’s hard to beat the value ................................................................................................. $

Ai SuShi & Grill

4655 CEntEnnial Blvd.• 266-5858 • 3215 CinEma Point • 622-8866 • aiSuShi.uS The two locations of Ai Sushi aren’t affiliated. Both boast creative rolls and fine teppanyaki. Try the NY NY Roll at both locations........$$★

at   

Fine Dining Live Music Wine Tastings  Award Winning Sunday Brunch  Stunning Mountain Views  Private Event Space

443 S. Highway 105 Palmer Lake, CO 80133 719-481-1800 www.innatpalmerdivide.com THE GAZETTE

2012 DINING GUIDE

asian

t.d. mobleymartinez

This was one of the first places I ate when I moved here, and it’s remained a go-to spot that hits all the right notes. It’s chic but approachable. The service is on-the-spot. The seasonal menu piques your imagination and isn’t too pricey, especially the lounge food. And boy, does it have a nice wine list. Even better, all bottles are half-price on Sundays.

arts & stage reporter

This funky old spot was recently resurrected by SouthSide Johnny’s owner Johnny Nolan. Try the “I Told You So” pizza, the fried zucchini and the broasted chicken, which proves you can get succulent breast meat at a restaurant.

Great, grainy red chili, a nice pork green chili and down-home good ... well, everything else. Try the chile relleno, a nice fat green chili that’s lightly battered and oozing flavorful cheese.

Serving some of the best breakfast and lunch ringers with sassy surprises, like the Pueblo Slopper. Don’t leave without a slice of homemade cake or pie.

Built true to form on Spanish tapas, every dish is well-executed. The Old World wine list is interesting and nicely priced. Try the chorizostuffed figs, a sweet and savory mouthful.

An nAm RestAuRAnt

6928 Mesa Ridge PaRkway, Fountain • 390-8700 UNDER THE RADAR • Fab pho, beautiful bowls and sensational spring rolls make this a hit in Fountain. Be sure to get an order of the spring rolls. ..............................$

ARhARn thAi RestAuRAnt

3739 BlooMington st. • 596-6559 • aRhaRnthai.net A bright, modern café serving tasty, authentic dishes at appetizing prices. Try the Jungle Curry and the Pad Thai Ho Kai. .......................... $★

BAmBoo CouRt RestAuRAnt

4935 Centennial Blvd. • 599-7383 Good, inexpensive American-Chinese food. ................................................. $

BARA sushi

1645 BRiaRgate Blvd. • 599-7330 • sushiBaRa.CoM With a deliciously complex spicy miso, the creative roll combinations and a chic atmosphere, this is the closest the Springs gets to a Denver sushi bar. ..........................................................$$★

BhAn thAi

1025 n. aCadeMy Blvd. • 574-3401 • 4431 Centennial Blvd. • 266-1309 • BhanthaiCo.CoM Fast food-style setup, reasonable prices and fine Thai, especially the red and green curries. ....................................................................................... $

ChinA CAfe

2761 BRiaRgate Blvd. • 260-1111 A simple Chinese takeout place known for big portions. .......................... $

106 Manitou ave., Manitou sPRings • 685-9576 A standard Chinese place that improved with new ownership. ............... $

2012 DINING GUIDE

3629 staR RanCh Road • 579-8822 A Chinese buffet convenient to Fort Carson. ............................................... $

ChinA inn

5929 delMoniCo dRive • 531-7357 Standard Chinese. Some folks rave about the orange chicken................ $

ChinA menu

5535 PoweRs CenteR Point • 282-0669 • ChinaMenuRestauRant.CoM A local Szechuan and Mandarin place surrounded by chains. ................. $

ChinA ReCipe

7645 MClaughlin Road, FalCon • 495-8891 • ChinaReCiPeFalCon.CoM A newly remodeled Chinese go-to place in Falcon...................................... $

ChinA town RestAuRAnt

326 s. nevada ave. • 632-5151 Traditional Chinese. Known for good mu shu pork. .................................... $

ChopstiCks AsiAn BistRo

120 e. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd. • 579-9111 • ChoPstiCksasianBistRo.CoM A local spin on Chinese fusion in a simple, stylish setting. ................... $★

CoAl mine DRAgon

1779 s. eighth st. • 471-7007 • 1720 w. uintah st. • 578-5430 The two locations are independently owned. The one on Eighth has a lunch buffet; the west-side spot doesn’t. Both are a step above most Chinese places. ......................................................................... $★

DRAgon king Chinese RestAuRAnt

ChinA ChinA

ChinA Doll RestAuRAnt

THE GAZETTE

6867 Mesa Ridge PaRkway, Fountain • 382-3023 Small Chinese place with some Thai offerings. .......................................... $

asian

EmpirE AsiAn BuffEt

5760 N. AcAdemy Blvd. • 548-0334 A good mega-buffet with sushi, Mongolian barbecue and all the Chinese standards. ............................................................................................ $

fujiyAmA

22 S. TejoN ST. • 630-1167 • fujiyAmASuShi.com The hopping urban setting and the half-price sushi happy hours make this a popular downtown watering hole. ..........................$$★

GrEAt ChinA BuffEt

628 S. AcAdemy Blvd. • 572-8009 More than 100 items on the spread. .............................................................. $

hAllA sAn KorEAn BArBECuE

1231 N. AcAdemy Blvd. • 622-9595 • hAllASANBBq.com Fresh veggies and spicy meats are the hallmark of Halla San................. $

housE of sAiGon

1014 S. 21ST ST., SuiTe A• 473-6707 This cozy place serves outstanding pho and good noodle bowls............ $

huhot monGoliAn Grill

housE of yAKitori 2 And 4

1612 N. AcAdemy Blvd., SuiTe A • 596-7511 • 1534 S. NevAdA Ave. • 227-0214 You can’t go wrong with marinated chicken on a stick. . .......................... $

housE of yAKitori no. 5 thAi KitChEn By nAyA

6626 delmoNico drive • 265-9168 Japanese and Thai, both done extremely well. ........................................... $

huhot monGoliAn Grill

7790 N. AcAdemy Blvd. • 598-4044 • 5843 coNSTiTuTioN Ave. • 574-6647 • huhoT.com This fun, family-friendly chain has made Mongolian barbecue work for Americans. Because of the DIY component, results vary. ................$$

hunAn sprinGs

24 e. KiowA ST. • 634-0800 A downtown spot known for its sesame chicken......................................... $

jACKson CrEEK ChinEsE

1054 w. BApTiST roAd, moNumeNT • 487-8081 Where Monument residents go for Chinese. ............................................... $

jAdE GArdEn

3105 S. AcAdemy Blvd. • 390-1888 Located in a former sushi bar, Jade serves above-average Chinese takeout food. ........................................................................................................ $

Northside Neighborhood Bar & Grill Live Music Friday & Saturdays 20 HDTV's Always Playing NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, Official Sponsors of MLS Champion Colorado Rapids! The Beast 18x24 Pizza Perfect for Parties

Independently Owned Family Friendly

Authentic Philly Cheese Steak Full Dinner Menu 10% Military Discount All the Time

9475 Briar Village Pt. Colorado Springs, CO 80920

THE GAZETTE

719.264.6161 backeastbarandgrill.com

1/2 mile east of the Promenade Shops at Briargate.

2012 DINING GUIDE

asian

Marigold is one of my favorite spots to meet friends for lunch, with its yummy salads or sandwiches. For dinner there’s a nice selection of seafood. And, here it comes, something wonderful for dessert or to take home for later: Double Chocolate Mousse Cake, fresh fruit tarts and German Chocolate Mousse.

This has been my go-to place for years. When it’s my turn to order, serve up an AP, a hand-held Avocado Pork Burrito I can eat at my desk and chase with a fresh lemonade. There are those who also swear by the Chile Relleno Burrito.

My extra-special place for a special occasion. The absolutely don’t-miss is, you guessed it, Pepper Steak. Amazing and mouth-watering. Also try the Chateaubriand.

My fave here is the “Colorado,” with green chilies, pepper jack and other goodies on a spicy chipotle bun. Don’t forget the Smashfries or Haystack Onions with dipping sauce.

I love the fresh guacamole prepared tableside. For meat lovers in the group, Bistec Chihuahua and Bistec Jalisco, filet mignon served in a hot skillet, are a treat.

linda navarro nonprofits reporter & columnist

Jasmine Café

LemonGRass BistRo

Jin-Go-Gae

LuCKy DRaGon Chinese RestauRant

6064 StetSon HillS Blvd. • 591-8989 • jaSminecafereStaurant.com Owned by the same chef who owned Jasmine Garden in Monument, Jasmine Café uses some of the freshest ingredients available. Also has a great, saucy pad Thai. .................................................................. $

1825 PeterSon road • 574-2060 Formerly a sandwich place with a bulgogi sandwich, now a full Korean place. ................................................................................................ $

Jun Japanese RestauRant

1760 duBlin Blvd. • 531-9368 • 3276 centennial Blvd. • 227-8690 • junjaPaneSe.com A go-to spot for consistently fresh sushi and more. ............................$$★

7673 n. union Blvd. • 599-8689 • koHnamiSuSHi.com This popular neighborhood Japanese and Korean spot moved from the south side of town to the north. ..................................................$$

KuRa Japanese RestauRant

3478 reSearcH Parkway • 282-8238 • kuraSuSHicoloradoSPringS.com under the radar • An unassuming, hidden gem of the sushi scene, Kura not only does great sushi rolls, it also has terrific appetizers and teppan tables.................. $$

Lanna thai

8810 n. union Blvd. • 282-0474 • lannatHaicoloradoSPringS.com Asian eggplant, serious spices and a consistently great pad Thai. Also a decent green curry.............................................................$$

LanshinG Café

9475 Briar village Point, Suite 150 • 266-8351 A local version of Panda Express. ................................................................... $

2012 DINING GUIDE

402 w. fillmore St. • 635-0112 Quick delivery and reliability are the lucky combo here. .......................... $

mayfLoweR Chinese RestauRant

1212 e. u.S. HigHway 24, woodland Park • 687-0711 A popular Chinese place in Woodland Park. ................................................. $

moBo sushi

Kohnami sushi

6840 n. academy Blvd. • 592-1391 The crown jewel of the local Vietnamese scene. Stylish, contemporary look, great bowls, friendly service and a decent wine list. .................................................................................$$★

THE GAZETTE

5975 n.academy Blvd., Suite 209 • 593-8249 • moBoSuSHi.com Traditional sushi bar with great specials, including three rolls for $12.99. ..................................................................................................$$

moon staR Chinese RestauRant

5873 Palmer Park Blvd. • 380-9333 Fans rave about the egg fu yung and fried rice........................................... $

naRai thai RestauRant

805 village center drive • 531-5175 • narai-tHai.com One of our favorite Thai spots, Narai has sweet and intense green curry. .......................................................................................................... $

new China KitChen ii

4795 BarneS road • 638-8800 Clean, stylish and all the usual suspects on the menu. ............................. $

asian

New PaNda aNd New PaNda 3

445A E. ChEyEnnE MountAin Blvd. • 576-9211 • 12225 voyAgEr PArkwAy • 481-0855 • nEwPAndArEstAurAnt.CoM under the radar • Independently owned. The pineapple fried rice and mango chicken reveal an the exotic flair at these Chinese, Thai and Malaysian gems........$

Overseas 101

5166 n. ACAdEMy Blvd. • 534-9588 This unassuming café does well with the milder standards. .................... $

JasMiNe CaFe

Pei wei asiaN diNer

7148 n. ACAdEMy Blvd. • 260-9922 • PEiwEi.CoM P.F. Changs’ kid sister. A fast-serve eatery with a scaled-down menu. Great edamame. .................................................................................................. $

P.F. ChaNg’s ChiNa BistrO

1725 BriArgAtE PArkwAy • 593-8580 • PfChAngs.CoM America’s favorite upscale Chinese chain, for good reason. Fresh ingredients prepared in a flavorful fusion style. The lettuce wraps are legendary. ......................................................$$▲★

PhO-N-thai

125 n. sPruCE st. • 329-0705 • yourhoodz.CoM/PhonthAi Pho, Thai and Japanese. If you want a burger, they’ll probably find one. ... $

PhO viet 1

3712 gAllEy roAd • 597-6559 Specializing in big, steaming bowls of pho, this place offers great value. ... $

rONg CheNg ChiNese restauraNt

6938 n. ACAdEMy Blvd. • 594-4849 Inexpensive food, big portions and very friendly service. ........................ $

rOyal BuFFet

3680 CitAdEl drivE n. • 574-6666 The newest entry in the mega-buffets, inside a former Red Robin, proves an amazingly good value, particularly for the seafood and Mongolian barbecue. .................................................................. $

saigON CaFe

20 E. ColorAdo AvE. • 633-2888 • ColorAdosAigonCAfE.CoM Downtowners’ favorite spot for noodle bowls. Stylish and delicious. ....$★

saigON grill

3119 w. ColorAdo AvE. • 635-0720 Strong Vietnamese offerings, especially the grilled pork and mixed noodle bowl .............................................................................................. $

We’re an American Grill! Our Hamburgers, Buns, and Desserts are Handmade Fresh Daily!

Buy 1 Sandwich or Entrée and Get the Second Entrée

50% off!

Expires May 31, 2012. Must bring in ad for discount

Happy Hour

3pm to 7pm Monday - Friday Kids Eat Free Monday - Thursday

(12 and Under, with adult purchase)

6120 Barnes Road

(719) 302-0969 www.barandgrillcolorado.com

Locally Owned THE GAZETTE

2012 DINING GUIDE

asian

Shinji’S SuShi bar

Saigon SpringS

WITH THE SAME OLD

INGREDIENTS

3408 N. AcAdemy Blvd. • 597-1175 The best Vietnamese egg rolls in town...................................................... $★

San Chang houSe

3659 AustiN Bluffs PArkwAy, suite 45 • 598-1707 An old school Korean restaurant with good beef short ribs. .............. $★

Seoul Tofu grill

296 s. AcAdemy Blvd. • 550-2000 • seoultofugrill.com UNDER THE RADAR • With its authentic Korean and California Koreatown recipes, Seoul offers mild and spicy, familiar and exotic, bargains and extravagances................. $$

Shanghai 2 ChineSe reSTauranT

821 cheyeNNe meAdows roAd • 540-8288 • shANghAi2chiNeserestAurANt.com Specializing in egg fu yung and other Chinese specialties....................... $

Shanghai Cafe

Voted the #1 Place to eat with your family

Pizza Pasta salad sandwiches soup

1107 s. NevAdA Ave. • 634-4270 Strong Chinese offerings, including great sesame chicken and Mongolian beef. ........................................................................................... $

Shangrila reSTauranT

8850 N. uNioN Blvd. • 495-1738 UNDER THE RADAR • Shangrila exhibits little gourmet or fusion ambition; it serves Chinese standards done very well. Love the crab rangoon. .................................................................$

Shin Sa Dong Korean CuiSine

3845 e. Pikes PeAk Ave. • 638-2695 Authentic Korean food in a casual atmosphere. The soups are terrific... $

Shinji’S SuShi bar

308 s. eighth st. • 475-0669 Fabulous one-man-band of a sushi bar, now doing all-you-can-eat and ramen.......................................................................................................$$★

Silver ponD ChineSe reSTauranT

5670 N. AcAdemy Blvd. • 594-9343 • BestsilverPoNdchiNese.com This regular Best of the Springs winner goes beyond standard dishes. We especially like the scallion pancakes. .................$$★

SpiCy baSil

562 w. colorAdo highwAy 105, moNumeNt • 488-9898 The new Thai hot spot in Monument.............................................................. $

Suehiro japaneSe reSTauranT

4331 N. AcAdemy Blvd. • 593-1800 One of the original Japanese restaurants in Colorado Springs.............$$

2910 E. Platte • 473-5540 28

2012 DINING GUIDE

THE GAZETTE

SuShi ai

6552 s. AcAdemy Blvd. • 576-8855 A small, consistent sushi bar. ........................................................................... $

asian

TaSTe of Thai Spice

Serving Grandma Ficco’s family recipes in a romantic atmpsphere.

SuShi Rakkyo

9205 N. UNioN Blvd. • 645-8754 • sUshirakkyo.com Very good new sushi place, off the menu or all you can eat. .................$$

SuShi Ring

1861 s. Nevada ave. • 635-5550 • sUshiriNg.com All-you-can-eat sushi done well. Easy to get your money’s worth.......... $

Tako JapaneSe ReSTauRanT

1840 domiNioN Way • 548-9257 Top-shelf ramen and good sushi and teriyaki. ...........................................$$

Tao’S oRienTal cuiSine

719-434-7868 • 1105 S. Tejon Street Open Monday - Saturday 11am - 7pm

13888 gleNeagle drive • 481-3418 Good Chinese, Korean and Thai cuisine from the folks who ran Little Bangkok downtown. Try the pad Thai .......................................... $

Awarded "Best Of"

TaSTe of china

1811 s. academy Blvd. • 596-8586 This mega-buffet is all about stuffing yourself ................................................ $

Colorado Springs 2005-2011 from the Gazette and Independent

TaSTe of Thai Spice

1609 lashelle Way • 226-1999 UNDER THE RADAR • Some of the best local red and green curries. ..........................................................................$

Thai BaSil

7882 N. academy Blvd. • 268-1688 • thaiBasil.Us A Denver-based chain that creates Thai for American tastes ............. $★

Thai lily cuiSine & yakiToRi no. 8

319 N. cheltoN road • 597-8374 • thaililycUisiNe.com Formerly Rougnapa, Thai Lily has very good Thai and yakitori. ............. $

Thai MinT

1725 Briargate Blvd. • 598-7843 Go for the drunken noodles and the good egg rolls. .................................. $

Thai SaTay

821 cheyeNNe meadoWs road • 540-8288 A new Thai place known for solid pad Thai. ................................................. $

Tk’S Mongolian gRill

1817 s. Nevada ave. • 328-1000 A local, modest version of the self-serve that HuHot does ...................... $

ToMo SuShi

975 N. academy Blvd., sUite c • 597-2422 • 8029 N. academy Blvd. • 277-0200 • eatattomo.com Specializing in big, filling rolls and scrumptious bento boxes................$$

Enjoy exotic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Daniel White. With wonderful ambiance, a full bar, the ability to accomodate large parties, and arrage preset menus, Caspian Cafe is the perfect dining destination!

www.caspiancafe.com

(719) 528-1155 Live Belly Dancing Fri & Sat from 6:30-8:30pm

New Happy Hour! Mon-Fri from 4-6pm

Mon-Thurs: 11am-9pm, Fri & Sat: 11am-10pm, Sun: 4-9pm 4375 Sinton Rd. Colorado Springs, CO 80907 (SE corner of Garden of the Gods and I-25)

THE GAZETTE

2012 DINING GUIDE

asian

jamaican

french

Get curiouser and curiouser … and then get the chocolatecovered bacon. Great spot for a quaint date or catching up with girlfriends; the Rabbit Hole’s old stone walls give it a wine cellar feel that takes you away from the local vibe, or perhaps beneath it, as this speakeasy joint is actually underground.

lorÉe rider coloradosprings.com online content specialist

Thursday’s night is Blues Night, but don’t go crying in your mojito — although they are worth tears of joy. And the tapas are particularly jazzy.

Get ready for a feast, or just grab a pizza to go. Your meal may as well come with an adopted Italian grandmother. Look forward to the all-you-caneat specials. The meatballs are a main course in themselves.

Alligators aren’t always ornery, at least not for dinner. Dig into one with beans and rice. Get classy with your Cajun. Expand your palate as you are taking in work from local artists lining the walls.

Nibble on the veggie crostinis with sun-dried tomatoes, then let the Punta Finale Malbec pour freely. Grab some tapas on Tuesday, and take the chance to learn to tango with the owner to jazz, indy and world music.

Tong Tong Korean resTauranT

2036 S. AcAdemy Blvd. • 591-8585 Savory short ribs, crunchy kimchi and delicious kimchi pancake ....... $★

ulTimaTe BuffeT

3727 Bloomington St. • 591-0768 • ultimAteBuffet.com This obscenely large Asian/American buffet lives up to its name .............. $$

VieTnamese garden

3043 W. PikeS PeAk Ave. • 520-9299 • vietnAmeSegArden.net under the radar • Not your cookie-cutter noodle bowl joint, this eatery offers wonderful white seaweed soup, fried eggplant and pork chops, and positions itself as gluten-free. Try the Mung Bean Cake for dessert. ............$

Wild ginger Thai resTauranT

Island GrIll

1107 S. Nevada ave., No. 101 • 578-1468 Authentic Caribbean food................................................................................. $

rasta Pasta

405 N. TejoN ST. • 481-6888 • raSTapaSTacS.com The fun atmosphere is reflected in the menu of favorites with an island twist. Try the Chicken Montego Bay. ............................... $

sPIce Island GrIll

10 N. Sierra madre ST. • 473-8280 • SpiceiSlaNdgrill.com under the radar • This family-owned spot serves authentic Jamaican fare. Try the jerk chicken. ...................$

27 mAnitou Ave., mAnitou SPringS • 634-5025 • WildgingerthAi.com This perennial Best of the Springs winner has good panang curry. ... $★

Xiang’s KiTchen

5935 conStitution Ave. • 573-8899 • xiAngSkitchen.com Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese cuisines, all done remarkably well. ........ $

Yoo mae Japanese cuisine

21 e. kioWA St. • 473-8105 A small sushi den featuring rolls inspired by every state in the union. .......................................................................................................$$

Zen fusion sushi & BisTro

4359 integrity center Point • 375-3288 • zenfuSionSuShi.com This new Powers-area sushi place is more ambitious than most (Sexy Spicy Nachos, Red Snapper), and serves some of the best sushi rolls in town. .............................................................................. $

2012 DINING GUIDE

THE GAZETTE

coquette’s BIstro & Bakery

915 maNiTou ave., maNiTou SpriNgS • 685-2420 • coqueTTeSbiSTroaNdbakery.com It may be one of the premier gluten-free restaurants in town, but it doesn’t skimp on the flavors in a wide-ranging menu. ........... $★

la BaGuette

Four locaTioNS • labagueTTe-co.com • labagueTTeFreNchbiSTro.com Terrific French bread, croissants and French pastries. .......................... $★

la crePerIe

204 N. TejoN ST. • 632-0984 A local mainstay, this no-fuss bistro excels at its namesake as well as soups, fish dishes and steak au poivre..............................$$★

Contemporary Bistro inspired menus Lunch & Dinner

Our contemporary French cuisine, coupled with our in-house bakery, has brought guests back time and again for over 15 years.

• In-house Bakery • Fine Wine List

o u rm Gods G e h t f en o B y G a rd

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

Appetizers & Soups Vegetable Entrees Paneer Specialties Traditional Curries Tandoori Meat Tandoori Breads Biryani Kababs

Reservations: 719.477.4377

Lunch Buffet $8.95 Everyday

Located in the historic west end of the Fine Arts Center

Dine-In & Delivery Available

MIRCH MASALA

Menu: csfineartscenter.org

5047 N Academy Boulevard Phone: (719) 599-0003 Delivery: (719) 634-6747

$ The best sushi in town is now the best deal in town!

1 OFF

ULTIMATE

Dinner Buffet

3727 Bloomington Street • 591-0768

Adult dinner buffet only. Not Valid for Seniors or Children buffet (Children 2-11). Good for up to 5 adults. Not valid February 13-14 Expires April 6, 2012

Lunch: Mon-Fri 11am - 3pm Dinner: Mon - Fri 4:30pm - 9pm

www.ultimatebuffet.com

ULTIMATE Zumbatini $6 Zumba Combo Plate $6

22 S. Tejon St.

Zumba

BUFFET

Steak • Seafood American Asian....

Sat & Sun 11am - 9pm

BUFFET All you can Eat!

1st Thursday of Every Month

(Instructor On Site) 8:30pm - 10pm

719-630-1167

3727 Bloomington Street • 591-0768 THE GAZETTE

ultimatebuffet.com

2012 DINING GUIDE

french

greek

Mediterranean

Middle eastern

YOUR FAVORITE AUTHENTIC MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE

te, th e ta s we h av e t h

Yo u

r We Cate ents Your ev

La TarTine French BisTro caFe

1420 Kelly Johnson Blvd. • 598-5550 A cute place with nice pastries. Get there early to get yours. ................. $

Paris crePe

hea

e h av

Shawermahs, Plates, Shish Kabob “King of Falafel”

218 n. TeJon sT., no. 110 • 444-0110 They may make crepes here, but with a twist: Thai beef, pesto chicken and other alt-ingredients................................................ $★

Free Sage Tea and Baklava off second meal

with any meal, or 50%

Voted Best Middle Eastern ‘07, ’08, ’09, ‘10, ‘11 -Gazette & Independent

718 Manitou Ave • 685.1325 || 4587 Austin Bluffs Pkwy • 685.9554 *Gluten-free Vegetarian available • heartofjerusalemcafe.com **Not affiliated with Taste of Jerusalem

sTacy & wahid haFsaoui paris crepe owners

westside jazz bistro

ArAbicA cAfé

12 S. Tejon ST. • 471-2444 • cravearabica.com One of the most authentic of several Middle Eastern restaurants downtown, Arabica’s handmade schwarma is hard to match. ............. $★

2432 Cucharras Street • Behind the Food Designers • FREE Parking

cAspiAn cAfé

4375 SinTon road • 528-1155 • caSpiancafe.com UNDER THE RADAR • The flavors of the Mediterranean shine through in cuisine from Lebanon, Morocco, Egypt, Greece, Turkey and Spain. .................................... $$★

Open Thursday, Friday & Saturdays Only • 719.635.5635 • www.motifwest.com

1/2 Off EntréE

Buy One Entrée and Get the 2nd Entrée 1/2 Off! One coupon per table. Lunch or Dinner. 2nd entrée of equal or lesser value. Not valid w/any other offers. Expires 2/27/12

Call for Reservations and Carry Out... Two LocaTions To serve You:

4608 rusina rd. ~ 264-0143 1605 s. nevada ave. ~ 442-2626 32

Let Us Hours: 10am-10pm CAteR Mon-Sun YOUR Next Gift Certificates eveNt!

2012 DINING GUIDE

Now Available!

THE GAZETTE

GArbAnzo MediterrAneAn Grill

Three locaTionS • eaTgarbanzo.com This Denver-based chain has transformed Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food in a Chipotle-style serving model — deliciously................... $

Greek Grille

4486 auSTin bluffS parkway • 264-1165 • 8844 n. union blvd. • 282-7776 Fresh ingredients distinguish these family-owned and -operated spots... $

HeArt of JerusAleM cAfé

4587 auSTin bluffS parkway • 685-9554 • 718 maniTou ave. • 685-1325 • hearTofjeruSalemcafe.com Outstanding shawarma and zesty hummus make this the best in class. Try The Heart of Jerusalem Schwarma with Babaganooj..... $★

in And out Gyros

3980 palmer park blvd. • 597-4282 Formerly Rumi’s Kabob, it offers straightforward gyros in a casual atmosphere. ......................................................................................... $

greek

Jake & Telly’s Greek Taverna

2616 W. Colorado ave. • 633-0406 • greekdining.Com More than just gyros, this upstairs bistro offers upscale delights. Start the night off flambè-style and order the saganaki................ $$★

MediTerranean Café

Mediterranean

Middle eastern

eastern european

Your Only Shoes , N ot F a r v u o o r Y i t t e s. Jus

118 e. kioWa St. • 633-0115 • medCafe-Co.Com A downtown institution, it offers intimate seating, a wide array of ultrafresh salads and gyros carved from a spit. ...................... $★

My BiG faT Greek resTauranT

7605 n. aCademy Blvd. • 260-7300 • eatmoregreek.Com Table dancing and smashing plates accompany your meal in this boisterous chain restaurant with terrific gyros. ............................. $

PeGasus MediTerranean Café

19251 e. U.S. HigHWay 24, Woodland Park • 687-4584 • PegaSUSCafeWP.Com This new Woodland Park Greek place is getting terrific buzz .......... $▲

Hours: Mon - Fri 9:30 to 6:00 Sat. 9:30 to 5:00 Closed Sundays

123 N. Tejon St. - Downtown

635-1575

sahara Cafe

954 manitoU ave., manitoU SPringS • 685-2303 Short on interior design, but big on flavor and some of the best beef schwarma in town............................................................................. $

TasTe of JerusaleM Café

15 e. BijoU St., • 477-1777 • 2810 S. aCademy Blvd., SUite 150 • 391-1777 • taSteofjerUSalemCafe.Com Authentic food for an American pallet, reasonable prices and terrific gyros. Try the Ultimate. ................................................................... $★

TaJine alaMi

10 old man’S trail, manitoU SPringS • 685-1119 • tajinealami.Com Authentic Moroccan food, entertainment and seating. Be prepared to sit on the floor and eat with your fingers. ..............$$$★

w w w. c c o b b c r e a t i o n s . c o m

MOLLICA’S

sahara Cafe

I TA L I A N M A R K E T

D eli mollicas.com &

Homemade Italian Sausage Imported Meats Imported Cheeses Imported Olives Fresh Breads

Lunch • Dinner Sandwiches Carry-outs Catering Delivery

985 - A GARDEN OF THE GODS ROAD COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80907

Authentic German Cuisine Restaurant & Bakery

euroPean Café and resTauranT

Indoor & Outdoor dining in a quaint Bavarian setting at the foot of Pikes Peak. Newly Remodeled Rathskeller

935 manitoU ave., manitoU SPringS • 685-3556 • eUroPeanCafemanitoU.Com Homey, intimate and as decadent as you want it to be. ........................ $

PJ’s BisTro

819 manitoU ave., manitoU SPringS • 685-1195 A spin-off from the European Café, its solid European fare is worth the calories. ...................................................................................... $

598-1088

34 East Ramona Avenue www.Edelweissrest.com

719.633.2220

THE GAZETTE

Reservations Accepted Open Every Day 11:30-9:00 Dinner Starts at 4:00

2012 DINING GUIDE

Finest Ingredients

Exquisite Presentation Monthly & Weekly Specials on Specialty Rolls Japanese Beer on Tap

5% Off Entire Food Bill

Hot Sake on Mondays

Excludes drinks. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Expires 1/31/12

4359 Integrity Center Pt.,

NW Corner of Powers and Barnes

375.3288

The most important part of our guide is missing. And that’s your input. Please go online and leave reviews of your favorite restaurants or suggestions on how we might improve the guide for next year.

www.zenfusionsushi.com

We proudly feature European and Mediterranean specialties with a strong French influence. Open Daily for Breakfast & Lunch, serving Dinner until 8pm, Wednesday – Saturday

10% Off

Located just south of Garden of the Gods.

Your Total Meal

4440 N. Chestnut Street Colorado Springs, CO 80907

Minimum purchase required of 2 entrees and 2 beverages. Offer expires January 31st, limited one time use , not valid with any other offer.

(719) 599-0686 Call for Reservations

visit us at www.LaBaguetteFrenchBistro.com

schnitzel fritz

German restaurant & Deli

Traditional German Cuisine! nOw servinG Breakfast Open mOn-sat: 7am - 7pm

Scott Savage the cliff house executive chef

eric ewerS the cliff house sommelier

Now Introducing: Old German Bakery

Using Wolfgang’s 30+ years experience to produce Artisian Breads, Rolls & Cakes. Natural with local ingredients Be sure to visit:

ElkE’s GERMAN DElI || mesa ridge (fountain) || 719.393. 0964 the largest selection of european luncheon meats, German speciality items, cakes, artisian Breads, rolls & more!

schnitzel fritz || 4037 tutt Blvd || colorado spgs. One Block south of the sky sox stadium

719.573.2000 www.schnitzelfritz.com

Go to ColoradoSprings.com to watch videos of local chefs making some of our favorite dishes. Chefs who’d like to submit their videos can contact Warren Epstein at warren@coloradosprings.com.

6-7 am everyday 1/2 price omelettes R

the best omelettes in the west senior discounts

available

Best Breakfast 19 Years in a Row By Independent

Live Entertainment Thursday - Saturday

719-634-3106 www.ofurrys.com HAPPY HOUR MON-FRI 4-7PM!

719-633-7770

900 East Fillmore • Colorado Springs, CO

2012 DINING GUIDE

THE GAZETTE

~ The Gazette 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 & 2010 ~ The Independent 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 & 2010

~ Wall Street Journal “Place to Dine”

Monday - Thursday ...11a - 2:30p, 5p - 8:30p Friday .........................11a - 2:30p, 5p - 9:30p Saturday ...................................... 11a - 9:30p Sunday................................................Closed

8810 N. Union Blvd. Colorado Springs CO 80920

Located in Briargate at Research & Union

719-282-0474

www.lannathaicoloradosprings.com

THE GAZETTE

2012 DINING GUIDE

Celebrating 18 years, thanks to you!

719-635-2800 2 E. Pikes Peak Ave. PhantomCanyon.com