The Gazette - Dining Guide 2014

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THE GAZETTE

JULY 11, 2014

2014 DINING GUIDE Where should we go to eat?

Well, deciding just got a lot easier. The Gazette’s annual Dining Guide lists hundreds of eateries in the Pikes Peak region. Thinking Mexican? No problem. A place for a special meal? Check out Page 5. Maybe you’ll see a new restaurant you’d like to try. From bistros to diners to delis, we have it covered. Our food editor — and even a health-conscious Gazette photographer — also weigh in with their favorite picks.

And if you’re on the go, check out our online version at gazette.com/ dining-guide.

Enjoy your dining experience.

Bon appetit!

Cupcakes by Mya Bella Cupcakes, Photo by Mark Reis

CONTENTS THE DISH: Teresa J. Farney.....................................................................................4 Fine Dining ...................................................................................................................... 5 Casual................................................................................................................................ 7 THE DISH: Christian Murdock ................................................................................18 Asian ................................................................................................................................22 Cajun ................................................................................................................................30 Ethiopian........................................................................................................................30 French .............................................................................................................................30 German ...........................................................................................................................32 Hawaiian .........................................................................................................................32 Indian...............................................................................................................................32 Irish ..................................................................................................................................33 Italian ..............................................................................................................................33 Jamaican .......................................................................................................................36 Mediterranean ............................................................................................................37 Mexican ..........................................................................................................................37 Caterers .........................................................................................................................42 Advertiser Index ........................................................................................................42

CONTRIBUTORS Editor Cary Vogrin

On thE cOvEr: Mya Bella Cupcakes

Writers and Experts Teresa J. Farney Jessica Griffith Christian Murdock Linda Navarro Angelo Stambene

Photographer Mark Reis

Photographers Christian Murdock Mark Reis

Designer Nichole Montañez

KEY TO SYMBOLS

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

Designer Gina Pietramale

*Prices are based on the average cost of the dinner entrees, or, if dinner isn’t served, lunch or breakfast.

Online Matt Andrews Stephanie Weber

Best of the Springs Winner .......................

Patio ..................................................................

Mountain View ..............................................▲

★

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 3

CHRISTIAN MURDOCK, THE GAZETTE

The lamb tajine at Coutures Bistro.

THE DISH

Top 5 favorite dishes by Teresa J. Farney, food editor teresa.farney@gazette.com

Cheesesteak

TRIVELLI’S HOAGIES 2819 N. Nevada Ave., 471-7733, trivellis.net The Callicrate beef is thinly sliced and simmered to melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

Piled high on a soft hoagie roll and topped with American cheese and fried onions — this is a five-napkin meal. At the new location you can enjoy the well-seasoned beef sandwich seated at a booth. $5.89 (6 inch), $11.78 (12 inch).

Chili Relleno

VALLEJO’S RESTAURANT 111 S. Corona St., 635-0980, facebook.com/vallejosrestaurant A chili relleno is my test for any Mexican food restaurant. And my gold standard for comparison is served only on Fridays at Vallejo’s. The unique recipe has been made by the Vallejo family since 1962. Lydia Vallejo Martinez, who rules the kitchen and keeps the recipes authentic, shops for the best Anaheim chilies to stuff with cheese and batter up for frying. The two pockets of gooey dairy are made to order, smothered in green chili and served with rice, beans and either corn or flour tortilla. I plan my visits for noon because the Friday special usually runs out before dinner service. $10.

lamb tajine

COUTURES BISTRO 218 N. Tejon St., 203-6700, couturesbistro.com Wahid and Stacy Hafsaoui, who expanded their Paris Crepe eatery to share kitchen space with the new bistro, bring a bolder expression of their Mediterranean-styled cuisine in the sophisticated bigger sister restaurant. The huge, fall-off-the-bone lamb shank featured in the tajine is bathed in a sauce of exotic North African spices with roasted vegetables sharing space on the plate. Whole olives deliver salty balance to the flavorful entree. $24.

monte CRisto sandwiCh

COQUETTE’S BISTRO AND BAKERY 321 N. Tejon St., 685-2420, coquettesbistroandbakery.com Raise your hand if you remember the Monte Cristo sandwich served at the legendary J. Maurice Finn’s back in the day. These sandwiches — grease bombs, really — were a favorite treat in the mid-’70s at the now-defunct restaurant, which was in what is now MacKenzie’s Chop House. You’ll find a pretty close approximation of the fried sandwich with layers of ham and Swiss cheese at Coquette’s. The chef builds the sandwich using a signature gluten-free hoagie as the base. The whole thing is dipped in pancake batter before it gets a bubbly bath in the fryer. The crispy fried mound is dusted with powdered sugar and is served with a dish of strawberry jam for dipping. Truffled French fries with that? Sure.

Why not? $10.

4 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

Huevos RancHeRos

OVER EASY. A DAYTIME EATERY 28A S. Tejon St., 471-2311; 5262 N. Nevada Ave., 598-2969, overeasycolorado.com Several things set this corn tortilla-based egg dish apart from other huevos rancheros, starting with the red chili. It’s a deep bricky red sauce that is as good as any New Mexicostyle enchilada sauce. The green chili sauce is delicious, too. The cotija cheese adds just the right tangy zing to the meal. Black beans and avocado complete the dish as tasty sides for soaking up the oozing over easy fried eggs. You won’t soon forget the extra crispy hash browns to drag through the final bites of sauce. $8.99

Fine Dining ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFE • 26 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1430, adamsmountain.com Gourmet organic food that is heavily vegetarian. ..............................................$$ ▲

★

ANTLERS GRILLE • 4 S. Cascade Ave., 473-5600, antlers.com The hotel dining room enjoys a good reputation for Sunday brunch.................................$$ THE BLUE STAR • 1645 S. Tejon St., 632-1086, thebluestar.net Here you’ll find a wide and deep wine list as well as a great happy hour, tasty tapas and consistently prepared food both in the lounge and dining room. ......................... $$$$

★

BONEFISH GRILL • 5102 N. Nevada Ave., 598-0826, bonefishgrill.com This is the place to find market-fresh fish and wood-grilled items. ........ $$$

★ ▲

BRIARHURST MANOR ESTATE • 404 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1864, briarhurst.com This cozy Victorian mansion-turned-gourmet-dining experience is a favorite wedding venue. ..........................................................................................................................................$$$$ THE BROADMOOR RESTAURANTS • 1 Lake Ave., 577-5776, broadmoor.com • LA TAVERNE

The stunning garden room has been revamped and the menu retooled as a Frenchstyle steakhouse. The kitchen does a solid job with meat and seafood. .................... $$$$ • LAKE TERRACE DINING ROOM

Perennial favorite for the huge buffet on Sundays with multiple carving and action stations. ....................................................................................................................................... $$$$

★

• PENROSE ROOM

It’s the only five-diamond and five-star restaurant in Colorado or the neighboring states, so expect perfection. .............................................................................................. $$$$ ▲ • RISTORANTE DEL LAGO

This new addition to the resort features authentic regional Italian cuisine. ..... $$$$ • SUMMIT – 9 Lake Circle, 577-5733, 577-5896

A casual yet elegant contemporary bistro serving excellently prepared food. .$$$$

★

CARLOS’ BISTRO • 1025 S. 21st St., 471-2905, carlosbistrocos.com Friendly family-owned restaurant serving high-quality beef, fish and lamb, all prepared to five-star quality. Half-price bottles of wine on Sundays and Mondays. Early bird specials 5-5:30 p.m. ........................................................................................................... $$$$ ▲ CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN RESORT • 3225 Broadmoor Valley Road, 538-4000, cheyennemountain.com The king of buffets, especially the Sunday brunch, with great cold salads, breakfast items and dinner entrees. An a la carte menu features Colorado fusion dishes. ........................................................................................................................... $$$$ ▲

★

THE CLIFF HOUSE AT PIKES PEAK • 306 Cañon Ave., Manitou Springs, 785-1000, thecliffhouse.com The dining room is inviting and the food excels, prepared by award-winning chefs. A drink on the veranda is a pleasant start to a meal. ............................................... $$$$ ▲ COUTURES BISTRO • 218 N. Tejon St., 203-6700, couturesbistro.com A beautiful dining room where you can enjoy fresh seasonal ingredients prepared in styles of French, Italian, Spanish and North African cuisines. .......................................... $$$

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 5

Fine Dining THE FAMOUS STEAK HOUSE • 31 N. Tejon St., 227-7333, thefamoussteakhouse.net The prime steaks have put the “famous” in the name, and the cow is always expertly seared to perfection. Cocktails are notable; shaken up by an award-winning bartender. .................................................................................................................................. $$$$

★

JOSEPH’S FINE DINING • 1606 S. 8th St. (THE EATERY IS MOVING IN AUGUST), 630-3631, josephsdining.com One of the few remaining places to have elegant dishes prepared tableside. .........$$$ (patio at new location) MACKENZIE’S CHOP HOUSE RESTAURANT • 128 S. Tejon St., 635-3536, mackenzieschophouse.com Steak, martinis and comfort food rule here. Prime rib is a winner. Half-price bottles of wine on Wednesdays. .....................................................................................................$$$$

★

THE MARGARITA AT PINECREEK • 7350 Pine Creek Road, 5988667, margaritaatpinecreek.com Local favorite for more than 40 years serving seasonal, locally sourced foods.

Especially known for the all-you-can-eat soup-and-salad lunch. ..............$$$ ▲

★

MARIGOLD CAFÉ & BAKERY • 4605 Centennial Blvd., 599-4776, marigoldcoloradosprings.com A French bistro and bakery with a wine bar where steak and fries are a popular option. .................................................................................................................................. $$$$

★

THE MELTING POT • 30-A E. Pikes Peak Ave., 385-0300, meltingpot.com/colorado-springs Popular fondue dining spot for special occasions. ........................................................ $$$

★

MONA LISA FONDUE RESTAURANT • 733 Manitou Ave., 685-0277, monalisafondue.com Four-course fondue dinners and a superb wine bar keep fans coming back. ............ $$$$ MOTIF • 2432 W. Cucharras St., 635-5635, motifwest.com A jazz bar serving artfully prepared small plates in an upscale setting. ..................... $$ MOZAIC RESTAURANT • 443 S. Colorado 105, Palmer Lake, 481-1800, innatpalmerdivide.com Popular for the Sunday brunch and classically prepared food that is beautifully presented. ........................................................................................................................... $$$$ ▲ THE MUCKY DUCK • 10530 Ute Pass Ave., Green Mountain Falls, 684-2008, muckyduckco.com Chalkboard dinner menu features steak, seafood, escargot and prime rib in a rustic log-cabin setting. Lunch and brunch menus offer salads, sandwiches and egg dishes. ..................................................................................................................................... $$$

▲

NOSH • 121 S. Tejon St., Suite 121, 634-6674, nosh121.com A hip place offering a playful menu with dishes like chicken and waffles and mac and cheese with a gourmet twist.................................................................... $$

★

THE PEPPER TREE RESTAURANT • 888 W. Moreno Ave., 471-4888, peppertreecs.com The pepper steak, one of the establishment’s most famous dishes, is prepared tableside.

One of the few places to find veal sweetbreads. ...................................................$$$$

★▲

THE RABBIT HOLE • 101 N. Tejon St., 203-5072, rabbitholedinner.com Sophisticated dining in a cave-like atmosphere with cocktails and a late-night menu.

Try the bacon-wrapped rabbit meatloaf or rabbit bisque with cranberry-carrot crème fraiche. ...........................................................................................................................................$$$

★

THE STEAKHOUSE AT BRONCO BILLY’S • 233 Bennett Ave., Cripple Creek, 689-2142, broncobillyscasino.com Serves good beef worthy of your winnings at the slots. .................................................. $$$$ THE SUNBIRD MOUNTAIN GRILL AND TAVERN 230 Point of the Pines Drive, 598-8990, thesunbird.com Best known for its lavish, well-priced champagne brunch buffet, but it also has ribs, steaks and chicken on the menu. ....................................................................... $$$$

★ ▲

6 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

Fine Dining THE SWISS CHALET • 19263 E. U.S. 24, Woodland Park, 687-2001, swisschaletofwoodlandpark.com Like dining in a chalet in the Swiss Alps, the menu features classic continental dishes. ......................................................................................................... $$$ ▲



TABEGUACHE STEAKHOUSE • 407 E. U.S. 24, Woodland Park, 687-8536, facebook.com/TabeguacheSteakhouse Not a fussy place but one where you can dig into a well-prepared steak. ...$$$$ ▲



TAPATERIA • 2607 W. Colorado Ave., 471-8272, tapateria.com Spanish tapas served with an excellent wine list. ......................................................... $

★

TUCANOS BRAZILIAN GRILL • 3294 Cinema Point, 597-3800, tucanos.com Get your fill of churrasco-style dining where meats and vegetables are grilled on skewers. Expansive salad buffet. .................................................................................... $$$

★

WALTER’S BISTRO • 146 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd., 630-0201, waltersbistro.com Elegant dining room where European cuisine is triumphant. The Maine lobster bisque is legendary. ........................................................................................................................................... $$$$ THE WAREHOUSE RESTAURANT AND GALLERY 25 W. Cimarron St., 475-8880, thewarehouserestaurant.com Elk, wild boar, bison, steaks and seafood are all given a gourmet touch. .............. $$$$

★

Casual 2 SOUTH WINE AND FOOD BAR• 2 S. 25th St., 351-2806, 2southwinebar.com Reasonably priced glass or bottle of wine to enjoy with upscale plates of seasonal, well prepared food. ......................................................................................................................................... $$

★

503 W. OPEN KITCHEN AND CRAFT BAR • 503 W. Colorado Ave., 471-3370, 503w.co Along with craft beer, enjoy food with an Asian twist at reasonable prices. .............$ THE AIRPLANE RESTAURANT • 1665 N. Newport Road, 570-7656, solosrestaurant.com How can you beat eating in an actual Boeing KC-97? That’s one of the dining rooms in this family eatery, which has been featured on the Food Network as well as in national publications. ............................................................................................................................................. $ AlCHEMY — NOT JUST A PUB • 2625 W. Colorado Ave., 471-0887, alchemypubcolorado.com You won’t find straight-up pub food here. Instead, plays on the dishes, like shepherds chili, which is Guinness lamb green chili served over mashed potatoes topped with melted cheese. ...................................................................................................................................... $$ BACK EAST BAR & GRILL • 9475 Briar Village Point, 264-6161, (second location opening in Monument), backeastbarandgrill.com A friendly and welcoming eatery, whether you’re the first person through the door for lunch or you bring your family for dinner on trivia night. The menu offers something for everyone. ............................................................................................................................................ $ BACK EAST PIZZA & WINGS • 3735 Bloomington St., 418-2459, backeastpizzaandwings.com Housemade pizzas, wings, salads and subs. Pizza dough and sauce are made daily. ......$$

★

BIG TRAIN FAMILY RESTAURANT • 3050 N. Nevada Ave., 473-8218 This family-friendly eatery is comfort food central. And don’t miss the Slopper. ........... $ BIRD DOG BBQ • multiple locations, birddogbbq.com Bird Dog’s Oklahoma-style barbecue has quite a following, perhaps because of the oaksmoked meats with sauce on the side, counter service and generous servings. ......... $$

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 7

Casual

BJ’S VELVET FREEZ • 1511 N. Union Blvd., 633-6365, bjsvelvetfreez.com Drive in, park and enjoy one of the remnants of childhood trips to the local soft-serve ice cream joint. Bonus: There’s some good eating as well. .................................................. $ BLACK BEAR COFFEE & TEA LODGE, • 6550 S. Academy Blvd., 226-2327 A cozy spot to settle in with a hot cup of tea to sip and housemade baked goods to nibble.

There’s a nice selection of sandwiches for lunch and seasonal soups-of-the-day. ....... $ BON TON’S CAFE • 2601 W. Colorado Ave., 634-1007, bontonscafe.com ☀ A Sunday brunch on the patio of this Old Colorado City cafe is a must during good weather.

The people-watching is priceless and the food is the kind your mom made (if you were lucky). Serving breakfast and lunch — and alcoholic beverages. ....................................... $ BUFFALO GALS • 1701-A S. 8th St., 635-0200, buffalogalsgrilling.com Serving Santa Maria style BBQ (grilled over an open pit on red oak) every Saturday year-round. And you’ll find them in the concession area at every event held at Freedom Financial Services Expo Center. Try the tri-tip, it’s moist and flavorful. .................... $$

★

BUFFALO WILD WINGS • Multiple locations, buffalowildwings.com Whether you like traditional or boneless wings, this spot has you covered with 20 signature sauces, four dry rub seasonings and always fresh, never frozen, wings. ..........$

★

BUNZ BAKERY AND BURGER BAR • 11550 Ridgeline Dr., 481-0555, bunzbakeryburgerbar.com.

If you’re looking for a healthier option for a burger, this is your spot. The meat is 100 percent pasture raised and the patties are freshly made to order — never frozen. Look for out of the ordinary protein choices like crab, buffalo and elk. ....................................... $ CATRIONA CELLARS AND CAFE • 243 Washington St., Monument, 481-3477, catrionacellars.com Stunning new winery where you can enjoy vino along with upscale food from a small menu. ................................................................................................................................................. $$ COFFEE CUP CAFE • 251 Front St., Suite 6, Monument, 488-0663, coffeecupmonument.com Locals have been coming here since 1978, not minding waiting on the weekends to be seated. The food and service is worth it. ........................................................................................ $ COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY • 600 S. 21st St., Suite 180, 466-8240; 11202 Rampart Hills View, 434-5750; cmbrew.com The restaurants aren’t just pretty: They offer warm, friendly service and mostly outstanding food. Both menus give you a little of everything, and a wood-fired pizza oven at the Roundhouse, which has a sprawling patio. ................................................ $$$

★

COQUETTE’S BISTRO AND BAKERY • 321 N. Tejon St., 685-2420, coquettecreperie.com A totally gluten-free restaurant, but you don’t have to be gluten-free to enjoy eating here. The daily specials are inventive, so whether you want a quick breakfast or a cozy dinner, you’ll find a dish that hits the mark. .................................................................$$

★

THE CORNER CAFE • 7 E. Vermijo Ave., 520-1843, cornercafecs.com☀ The Corner Cafe may not be the fanciest, but it does everything well, including the pork green chili (it’s hot and savory). Generous portions and friendly service (owners Bob and Virginia Smoot are always there) make it worth the occasional line at the register. Don’t miss the house-made pie. ......................................................................... $ CRAVE REAL BURGERS • 7465 N. Academy Blvd., 264-7919, craverealburgers.com Crave can hook you up with flavors God never intended to be consumed together, including the Fatty Melt (bacon, cheese and pickles between two grilled cheese sandwiches). .......................................................................................................................................$ CUCURU GALLERY CAFE • 2332 W. Colorado Ave., 520-9900, cucurucafe.net This quirky little cafe in the heart of Old Colorado City specializes in tapas with a Cuban flair as well as a roster of live music and rotating art shows. ......................................... $$

8 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

PlayWildwood.com/dining CY’S DRIVE-IN RESTAURANT • 1833 W. Uintah St., 6307008 This homegrown drive-in serves up the classics as well as some combos you might not have thought of. ............................... $ DALE STREET BISTRO CAFE 115 E. Dale St., 578-9898, mydalestreetcafe.com A sweet spot for a lazy afternoon. The menu includes pizza and a variety of salads and entrees, including Shrimp Luisa, gnocchi gorgonzola and vegetable Wellington. ..........................................$$$ DION’S • 6385 Source Center Point, 265-4645, dions.com The service is friendly, even when the crowds are hectic, and the food is simple, fast, fresh and delicious. And if you don’t want to dine in, you can order and pay online, then pick up your order at the drive-thru window. ................................... $$ THE DONUT MILL 310 W. Midland Ave., Woodland Park, 687-9793, thedonutmill.com This sweet spot offers all the best in carbo overload, including house-made doughnuts, fritters, scones and cinnamon buns, the latter measuring 10 to 12 inches across........ $ DRIFTER’S HAMBURGERS 4455 Mark Dabling Blvd., 548-8163; 1485 Jamboree Dr., 264-1512; driftershamburgers.com Good burgers and fries. A bonus: The beef is humanely raised without added hormones or antibiotics. .............................. $ EAST COAST RESTAURANT & DELICATESSEN • 24 S. Tejon St., 633-4522, eastcoastdeli.net☀ An old-fashioned deli run by Long Island natives. Serves up a huge variety of meats and all the classic sandwiches. Good service. ........................................................ $ ENGLISH DOCKSIDE WEST 1201 W. Colorado Ave., 227-7732, englishdockside.com English is the owner’s last name, Dockside refers to the excellent seafood he serves up. You can expect po’ boys big enough to extend over the sides of the plate. Plus, there’s the owner’s secret Cajun spice mix. ............................................................. $$ FIFTY FIFTY COFFEE HOUSE • 330 N. Institute St., 445-1157, facebook.com/ ravensnestcoffee Former owners of a food truck took their thriving business into a former neighborhood coffee shop, where they offer a small menu of freshly made breakfast and lunch items. Many of the dishes are vegetarian and vegan. ............ $

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THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 9

Casual FLATIRONS AMERICAN BAR & GRILL • 2540 Tenderfoot Hill St., 576-2540, flatirons.biz There’s steak, sure, but Flatirons also offers a three-cheese macaroni, pork street tacos and about 75 wines and beers by the bottle. ...........................................................$$ GARDEN OF THE GODS GOURMET MARKET AND CAFE 410 S. 26th St., 471-2799, godsgourmet.com Recently moved to a new location with an expanded deli menu for breakfast and lunch.

Award-winning chefs never fail to deliver delicious, creative food. ................................... $$ GOLDEN BEE • The Broadmoor, 1 Lake Ave., 577-5776, broadmoor.com/goldenbee A traditional 19th-century English pub experience with pub fare as well as live piano music and sing alongs. ...................................................................................................... $$$

★

GRIZZLY GRILL • 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Road, 633-9925, cmzoo.org You’ll find selections you don’t expect to see in a zoo setting. There’s a carving station offering daily specials. The rice bowls are prepared creatively on the spot. Zoo admission is required. ................................................................................................................... $ GUNTHER TOODY’S • 5794 Palmer Park Blvd., 570-1952; 5490 E. Woodmen Road, 548-1955; gunthertoodys.com This Colorado chain gives it to you in gleaming spades, along with some tasty fare, including the Bleu Suede Shoes Burger, the Diner Double Cheeseburger and an extensive breakfast menu. ................................................................................................................................ $

★

THE HUNGRY BEAR • 111 E. Midland Ave., Woodland Park, 687-5912, hungrybearcolorado.com Just scrolling down the menu will make you hungry. ................................................................. $ JACK QUINN IRISH ALEHOUSE AND PUB • 21 S. Tejon St., 385-0766, jackquinnspub.com You don’t need to be Irish to enjoy the dark, intimate atmosphere of this downtown fixture. The food is good, too, and includes themed items (Celtic Wings, Guiness Stout cheese soup) as well as greatest hits such as a surf and turf and a lime dill salmon. . $ JOANIE’S MOUNTAIN GOURMET DELI • 110 E. U.S. 24, Woodland Park, 686-9091, joaniesdeli.com This gorgeous deli, which serves breakfast and lunch, is bright and airy. The food is well-prepared: just the thing for a trip to the lovely mountain town. ........................... $ JOHNNY’S NAVAJO HOGAN • 2817 N. Nevada Ave., 344-9593, johnnyshogan.com The Hogan has had many lives since it was built as a roadhouse in 1935. Restaurateur Johnny Nolan, who also owns SouthSide Johnny’s, took over the spot in 2011. It can be rowdy in the evenings (the cool, peaked log ceiling doesn’t do much for acoustics), but if that’s not your thing, check it out for lunch. The menus are the same. .................$$ JUNIPER VALLEY RANCH • 16350 S. Colorado 115, 576-0741, junipervalleyranch.com Now in its 62nd year, this popular restaurant hasn’t changed its menu since 1951. Think homemade fried chicken and baked ham with a variety of sides, served family-style.

Seasonal hours. Closed January – April 3. ............................................................................. $$

★

THE KEG LOUNGE • 730 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-9531, keglounge.com The kind of place where locals congregate for a good lunch or a drink after work (and they do). It’s dark, oaky and heavy on the protein. Friendly service and one of the best green chili cheeseburgers around. ................................................................................................. $$ KING’S CHEF DINER • 131 E. Bijou St., 636-5010, kingschefdiner.com; 110 E. Costilla St., 634-9135, cosdiner.com King’s Chef has character to spare, but it isn’t just a pretty face. The food is hearty (and served in generous portions), the service friendly and the green chili hot. ...$

★

LARKBURGER • 1904 Southgate Road, 466-6111, larkburger.com Started in Vail, this simple concept with memorable flavors is sleek but welcoming. Try the Little Lark, the smaller version of the restaurant’s namesake. It’s always juicy and cooked to order. And you gotta love the additions of thick-cut bacon, the Tillamook cheddar and gluten-free buns. .....................................................................................................$

10 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

The True Taste of Colorado

North: westside: 1110 Interquest Parkway 600 South 21st St. Interquest Parkway & I-25 Roundhouse (Hwy 24 West & 21st St) (Across from the Air Force Academy)

434-5750 • cmbrew.com

(Old Van Briggle Pottery location)

466-8240 • cmbrew.com

503W IS THE NEWEST RESTAURANT + BAR IN COLORADO SPRINGS SPECIALIZING IN UNIQUELY HANDCRAFTED FOOD + DRINKS USING FRESH,

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719.592.1391 SOuth Of wOOdmen On aCademy lunCh: 11 am - 3 pm dinner: 4 pm - 9 pm ClOSed mOndayS THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 11

Casual MARGO’S VIENNA STATION • 3442 W. Colorado Ave., 630-7453 When you want a hot dog, a place that mostly serves burgers just won’t do. This faux train depot does it right — and what a view. ............................................................. $ ▲

★

THE MASON JAR • 2925 W. Colorado Ave., 632-4820, masonjarcolorado.com Straightforward comfort food, best known for the chicken fried steak. .......................... $$ THE MATE FACTOR CAFE • 966 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-3235 You won’t find another place in the area that looks like this cafe, which is a casual hangout to grab a beer, a sandwich, a mate or watch people. .........................................$ MCCABE’S TAVERN • 520 S. Tejon St., 633-3300, mccabestavern.com The first thing that will strike you at McCabe’s is the atmosphere. There’s a casual air about the place that makes you feel like sitting and relaxing for a while. The menu offers a surprising number of creative vegetarian options. The food is simply better than the usual bar fare. ............................................................................................................... $$ MCGINTY’S WOOD OVEN PUB • 11115 W. U.S. 24, Divide, 686-7703, mcgintyswoodovenpub.com Walk into McGinty’s and you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to the old country. The food sports Irish-sounding names, but there’s more than Irish stew to choose from, including pizza, sammies and fondue. .......................................................................................... $$ MEADOW MUFFINS • 2432 W. Colorado Ave., 633-0583, facebook.com/MeadowMuffinsBar This is the go-to place in Old Colorado City for watching the game and grabbing an inexpensive burger and fries. It’s also a prime spot for live music and karaoke. ............ $ MILDRED’S CAFE • 4645 Fountain Ave., Cascade, 684-7855, mildredscafe.com You’ll feel as if you should throw on a poodle skirt and cateye glasses when you stroll into Mildred’s, which has been serving classic diner fare since 1956. .................................. $ MILT’S COFFEE SHOP • 2314 E. Platte Ave., 634-9016 When you gotta have biscuits and gravy — or any other breakfast standard — head to Milt’s, where the food hits the spot and the service is friendly. ............................................ $ MONTAGUE’S PARLOUR • 1019 S. Tejon St., 520-0672, facebook.com/MontaguesParlour The coffee and tea are very good here, along with a solid breakfast and lunch menu that leans toward healthy. ................................................................................................................. $ MOUNTAIN SHADOWS RESTAURANT • 2223 W. Colorado Ave., 633-2122, facebook.com/MountainShadowsRestaurant A quaint spot nestled in Old Colorado City serving up hearty portions of breakfast, lunch and dinner. You might have to wait for a table on weekends. Do it. You won’t be sorry. ........$$ NATURAL EPICUREAN • The Broadmoor, 1 Lake Drive, 577-5733, broadmoor.com/natural-epicurean/ The newest restaurant at the resort was conceived on four words: healthy, wholesome, organic and natural. You’ll find a selection of vegan, gluten-free and vegetarian items, along with sustainably raised fish and meat dishes. ...........................................................$ NEW DAY CAFE • 5901 Delmonico Drive, 266-0555, newdaycafe.com Open for breakfast and lunch, this spot offers classic fare, including a variety of omelets, house-made soups and sandwiches. Try the signature tortilla soup ..............................$ ▲ O’FURRY’S IRISH SPORTS PUB & GRILL • 900 E. Fillmore St., 634-3106, ofurrys.com A great place to stop and watch the game with a cold drink and a basket of awardwinning chicken wings. ................................................................................................................... $ O’MALLEY’S • 104 Colorado 105, Palmer Lake, 488-0321, omalleys.biz Visitors love the laid-back atmosphere in this grill-your-own steak joint. The steaks are hand-cut, and there are a variety of seasonings to jazz up your beef the way you like. .............................................................................................................................. $$

12 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

Rare Steak Well Done 31 N. Tejon Street 719.227.7333 www.thefamoussteakhouse.net

TURN UP THE FLAVOR Not The Price

2013

Locally Sourced Farm Fresh Products Best Green Chili

Best Diner

Best Late Night Dining

131 E. Bijou St. cosdiner.com 110 E. Costilla Best Green Chili

Best Diner

Best Late Night Dinning

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 13

Casual OLD CHICAGO • multiple locations, oldchicago.com Wide-ranging menu. Good service. Comfortable atmosphere. ..........................................$ OLIVER’S DELI • 6602 Delmonico Drive, 599-9411, oliversdelishop.com A family-owned deli for more than 30 years featuring local foods like Sara’s Sausage, house-made breads (sweet and savory) and quiche. ................................................................. $ THE OMELETTE PARLOR • 900 E. Fillmore St., 633-7770, co-spgs-omeletteparlor.com Hearty breakfast and lunch dishes, many of which are named after local landmarks. ........................................................................................................................... $

★

OSCAR’S TEJON STREET BAR • 333 S. Tejon St., 471-8070, oscarstejonstreetbar.com A comfortable and eclectic downtown spot that’s known for fresh oysters (done a variety of different ways) and live music. ......................................................................$$ OVER EASY, A DAYTIME EATERY • 28A S. Tejon St., 471-2311; 5262 N. Nevada Ave., 598-2969; overeasycolorado.com Over Easy brings a fresh twist to breakfast and lunch with dishes like the Peace, Love & Pancakes flight — three pancakes in flavors like strawberry cheesecake and cinnamon swirl. .............................................................................................................................................. $

★

THE PANTRY • 6980 Lake St., Green Mountain Falls, 684-9018, thepantryingreenmtnfallsco.com Opened in the 1950s as a bakery, this restaurant has had a couple of face-lifts to include creekside dining and live entertainment. . ................................................................... $ ▲ THE PARKED PIEROGI • 292 S. Colorado 105, Palmer Lake, 210-7029, parkedpierogi.com Yes, of course, there are pierogis, but how about chicken and waffles? . ........................ $$ PATTY JEWETT BAR AND GRILL • 900 E. Espanola St., 385-6908, pattyjewettclubhouse.com The best bet in the burger category is the green chili Slopper. Also terrific: the Colorado Cobb salad when you’re hankering for some greens. ..................................................$ ▲ PHANTOM CANYON BREWING CO. • 2 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 635-2800, phantomcanyon.com Fresh ingredients and playful dishes grace the menu, such as Suzie’s Chicken & Biscuit, which is topped with chili honey and watermelon relish. ................................... $$$

★

PJ’S BISTRO • 819 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1195, facebook.com/PJsBistro Polish-American food including potato pancakes, Havarti-horseradish pierogis, stuffed cabbage and stroganoff. .................................................................................................. $$ ▲ PLAY • The Broadmoor, 1 Lake Drive, 577-5733, broadmoor.com/play A casual eatery where you can have wine, beer, adult milkshakes, elegant foodand the ability to roll a bowling ball on one of six lanes. ....................................................................... $$ POOR RICHARD’S/RICO’S CAFE AND WINE BAR 320-324 N. Tejon St., 630-7723, poorrichardsdowntown.com It’s easy to lose an afternoon at Poor Richard’s. Books. Good food. Head over to Rico’s Café if you’re in the mood for wine, a handcrafted coffee or a light meal. ................. $ THE PUBLIC HOUSE PUB & GRILL • 445 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd., 465-3079, facebook.com/PublicHouseColorado Sports. Beer. Good pub food to enjoy while watching UFC fights and Avalanche games. ....................................................................................................................................... $$ RITZ GRILL • 15 S. Tejon St., 635-8484, ritzgrill.com A lunch and dinner spot with a bistro-style menu and live music after 9 p.m. ......... $$$ RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE AND BAR-B-Q • 315 S. 31st St., 471-4120, rudysbbq.com Reviewers rave about the turkey and moist brisket. Good BBQ in a down-home atmosphere. They even cater large events. .............................................................$

★ ▲

14 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

¡VIVA FIESTAS!

~AUTHENTIC, MADE-FROM-SCRATCH MEXICAN DISHES~ • Dine-in • Take-out • Drive-thru • Delivery

Happy Hour Specials 3pm-6pm

Three locations serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

306 S. 8th St. 4295 N. Nevada Ave. 3725 E. Woodmen Rd. 633-9616 599-7829 536-0375

LaCasitaMexiGrill.com

ClassiC Comfort food Celebrating 30 Years!

Old Fashioned Fried Chicken Fresh Rainbow Trout Hand-Cut Aged Steaks Sandwiches, Salads, Soups Handmade Cobblers Full Service Bar 2925 W. Colorado Ave. (At 30th St.) 632-4820

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 15

Casual RUSTLERS COUNTRY CAFE • 2886 S. Circle Drive, 576-5900, hotelelegante.com/about/dining.htm A wide menu featuring burgers, salads, seafood and steak. ...............................................$$$ SANDY’S RESTAURANT • 6940 Space Village Ave., 651-0596, Facebook.com/sandy’srestaurant Homestyle cooking with a menu of sandwiches, salads and soups. Breakfast and lunch served all day. ........................................................................................................................................... $ SEEDS COMMUNITY CAFÉ • 109 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 473-8206, seedscommunitycafe.org Vegetarian dishes fresh from the café ’s garden. A pay-what-you-can cafe, suggested price $10, and any extra amount provides a meal for someone who can’t pay. ......... $

★

SHELDON’S LUNCHEONETTE • 310 8th St., 520-1654; 204 Mount View Lane, 599-0887; sheldonslunch.com Diner food in a friendly atmosphere at reasonable prices. Try the meatloaf. ...............$

★

SHUGA’S RESTAURANT & BAR • 702 S. Cascade Ave., 328-1412, shugas.com The award-winning spicy Brazilian coconut soup & Lavender Blossom Martini set them apart from the rest. ................................................................................................................. $

★

SMASHBURGER • 5320 N. Nevada Ave., 219-0500; 3707 Bloomington St., 574-4126; 3604 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 266-1004; smashburger.com This Denver chain makes a mean burger, first smashing hand-formed beef on a scalding grill, then piling the patty with fresh toppings. ............................................................................ $ SMILEY’S BAKERY & CAFE • 323 N. Tejon St., 328-9447 You can get breakfast all day here, along with Southern- and Cajun-influenced comfort food. Made from scratch: Fresh bread, pies and pastries baked daily in-house. Glutenfree options, too. ....................................................................................................................... $

★

SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY’S • 528 S. Tejon St., 444-8487, southsidejohnnys.biz Here you’ll find regular bar food for lunch and dinner. Check out the brunch menu for some unusual dishes. ............................................................................................................$$

★

SPEEDTRAP BISTRO • 84 Colorado 105, Palmer Lake, 488-2007, speedtrapbistro.com Find salads, soups and an array of crepes at this coffee shop and bar. .......................... $

▲

THE STAGECOACH INN • 702 Manitou Ave., 685-9400, stagecoachinn.com There’s a Colorado touch to the menu with buffalo burger and Rocky Mountain oysters available. And don’t forget the fried chicken. ............................................ $$$ STIR • 2330 N. Wahsatch Ave., 418-6188, stircoffeeshop.com Small menu of breakfast burritos, pastries and coffee. Here is where to go to buy whole homemade pies. ................................................................................................................................$ TONY’S BAR • 326 N. Tejon St., 228-6566, tonysdowntownbar.com Recently moved to an expanded space, this home for hockey, burgers, fried cheese churds, beer-battered walleye and broasted chicken still delivers. .............................. $

★

TRINITY BREWING CO. • 1466 Garden of the Gods Road, 634-0029, trinitybrew.com A Gold Medalist in the Great American Brew Fest. Also has unique menu and offers enthusiastic suggestions on beer pairings. Wine available for those who prefer it over suds. .............................................................................................................................................$$

★

TRIVELLI’S HOAGIES • 2819 N. Nevada Ave., 471-7733, trivellis.net A staple local since 1976, serving fresh salads and homemade hoagies. . ..................... $$

★

UNCLE SAM’S PANCAKE HOUSE • 341 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-9525, facebook.com/UncleSamsManitou They serve all-you-can-eat pancakes and French toast. Of course, there’s omelets, steak and egg plates and fruit waffles, too. ................................................................................... $

16 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

JOIN US FOR HAPPY HOUR AND LATE NIGHT OVER 30 DRAFT BEERS | OPEN 11am - 2am 7115 Commerce Ctr. Dr. • 118 N. Tejon St. 4110 N. Academy Blvd. • 3190 New Center Point www.oldchicago.com

Mollica’s Italian Lunch • Dinner Market & Deli • Homemade Italian Sausage • Homemade Heat & Eat Dinners • Boar’s Head Meats • Imported Meats, Cheese & Olives • Party Platters • Desserts

• Soup • Salad • Sandwiches • Pizza • Pasta

MollicasItalianMarket.com 985 Garden of the Gods Rd. • 719-598-1088

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 17

Ola Juice Bar’s Thai Avocado Medjool. Add some coffee beans and your taste buds will be in heaven.

ChrisTiAn MUrDOCK, ThE GAZETTE

THE DISH

Top 5 favorite “good for you” meals by Christian Murdock, health-conscious Gazette photographer christian.murdock@gazette.com

Thai avocado Medjool

OLA JUICE BAR 27 E. Kiowa, 633-3111, olaJuiceBar.com You’ll feel guilty drinking this smoothie ($7), but don’t. It may taste like a vanilla milkshake but it’s packed with a mouthful of healthy ingredients: avocado, cashews, dates, lemongrass, vanilla, coconut milk, coconut water and raw agave. This smoothie makes a great meal on the go, too. If the Thai Avocado isn’t enough, try the quinoa bowl with the spicy peanut sauce. Packed with protein and detoxing greens. $7.75 CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Casual URBAN STEAM COFFEE BAR AND CAFE 1025 S. Sierra Madre St., 473-7832, urbansteamcoffee.com A hipster coffee bar offering classy food made with garden-fresh ingredients. Waffles (sweet and savory) are a big thing here. Full bar. .................................................................$ WADE’S CAFE • 3504 N. Academy Blvd., 596-8122, wades-cafe.com Open for breakfast and lunch serving award-winning pancakes. .......................................... $ WESTERN OMELETTE • 16 S. Walnut St., 636-2286, westernomelette.com Start your day here with a bowl of super spicy green chili (really) made with habanero peppers. Lunch favorites include chicken fried steak and Monte Cristo sandwiches.

There are also several Southwestern entrees. Arrive ready to wait for a table on the weekends. It’s worth it. .................................................................................................................. $

★

WINES OF COLORADO • 8045 W. U.S. 24, Cascade, 684-0900, winesofcolorado.com Begin your visit tasting Colorado wine. Then select a bottle to enjoy with lunch or dinner. The drive is beautiful any time of the year and the creekside dining is a high point. ........................................................................................................................................ $$$

▲

WISDOM TEA HOUSE • 65 Second St., Monument, 481-8822, wisdomteahouse.com Serves a variety of tea selections accompanied by sandwiches, salads, scones and an assortment of baked goods. .........................................................................................................$ WOOGLIN’S DELI • 823 N. Tejon St., 578-9443, wooglinsdeli.com A cozy place in the Colorado College area that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Lots of deli standards, including a yummy tuna salad sandwich. The portions of the sandwiches and salads are huge, the quiche is excellent and burgers juicy. ...... $

★

18 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

french

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Free Sage Tea and Baklava off second meal

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Voted Best Middle Eastern 7 Years In A Row! -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

westside jazz bistro

 Best Patio Dining in Old Colorado City  2 for 1 Drink Specials All Day, Every Day!  Early Bird Specials 6:00 – 8:30 am

 Gluten Free Menu Selections 2432 Cucharras Street • Behind the Food Designers • FREE Parking Mon. – Sat. 6 am to 3 pm | Sun. 6:30 am to 3 pm

2601 W. Colorado Ave.  719.634.1007

www.bontonscafe.com

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 19

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

ChriSTian MUrDOCK, ThE GaZETTE

The vegan veggies on quinoa at Seeds Community Café

THE DISH CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

Very Veggie Burger

POOR RICHARD’S RESTAURANT 322 N. Tejon St., 578-5549, poorrichardsdowntown.com You don’t have to be a vegetarian to crave this burger. The very veggie burger is packed with flavor. The patties are homemade from sautéed vegetables, brown rice, Japanese bread crumbs and spices. It’s topped with avocado, cucumbers and scallions and served on a multi-grain bun, French rye, gluten-free bread or whole-wheat wrap. $8.25

Vegan Veggies on Quinoa

SEEDS COMMUNITY CAFÉ 109 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 473-8206, seedscommunitycafe.com The concept of Seeds Community Café is a healthy one. It’s a donation-based restaurant providing good-for-you meals accessible to everyone. If you can’t afford a meal, volunteer for an hour. Seeds uses local produce whenever possible, too.

My favorite meal: vegan veggies on quinoa. Fresh vegetables are sautéed in coconut oil, poured over red quinoa and topped with hemp seeds. Seasonal veggies — such as onions, celery, beets, carrots, green beans, garlic, asparagus, pepper and mushrooms — make for a delicious dish. Average donation, with dessert, is $8-$12.

salmon omelette

ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFE 26 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1430, adamsmountain.com Adam’s prides itself on fresh, organic meals that can accommodate the dietary needs of almost anyone. Seventy percent of the menu is vegetarian and 20 percent vegan. You won’t find a soda on the menu either. The salmon omelet is made with house-smoked, organic salmon with cream cheese, capers, scallions and dill inside three eggs. It’s served with Great Harvest high-fiber toast and a slice of orange. $10.75

ah!mond Clusters

RADIANTLY RAW Sold in local businesses such as Local First Grocer in Manitou Springs, Mountain Momma Natural Foods, Ranch Food Direct and Ola Juice Bar; radiantlyrawkitchen.com Chocolate that’s good for you? Sounds like I died and went to heaven. This treat made from raw cacao beans — without sugar, milk, or vegetable fat — tastes as good or even better than its evil twin. The raw cacao, almonds and coconut oil are super foods — good for your heart, immune system and cholesterol. Who said dessert can’t be good for you? $4.95.

20 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

BEAT THE HEAT WITH A TREAT! Boxed Chocolates • Caramel Apples • Fudge & More 50% OFF any flavor caramel apple.

EXPIRES 12-31-15 Limit 1.

Not valid with any other offers.

Must present coupon.

2431 W. Colorado Ave. Citadel Mall Chapel Hills Mall Shops at Briargate 719-635-4131 719-591-2254 719-590-7623 719-593-0089

Proudly Serving Colorado Springs’

Best BBQ Our meats are oak-smoked and our signature gluten-free BBQ sauces are made in house everyday.

Centennial & Garden of the Gods Fountain Centennial West shopping center 4153 Centennial Blvd Colorado Springs, CO 80907

Markets at Mesa Ridge shopping center 6965 Mesa Ridge Parkway Ste 190 Fountain, CO 80817

Shops at Briargate

Powers & Stetson Hills

Promenade Shops at Briargate 1645 Briargate Pkwy Ste. 243 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Ridgeview Marketplace Shopping Center 5984 Stetson Hills Blvd Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80923

07’-14’

BIRD DOG BBQ Colorado Springs, CO

www.BirdDogBBQ.com

Joseph’s Restaurant & Bar

A blend of old table side flambé cooking with contemporary cuisine New Location Opening Mid-August Featuring Patio Dining & Spacious Bar 1603 S. 8th Street 719-630-3631 josephsdining.com THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 21

Asian CHAANG THAI • 7525 N. Academy Blvd., 594-4471, chaangthaicos.com The former House of Yakitori No. 2 now serves curry, teriyaki and a bevy of unique beverages. ...........................................................................................................................................$ FUJIYAMA • 22 S. Tejon St., 630-1167, fujiyamasushi.com As far as sushi goes, Fujiyama is near the top of the list. Be sure to try the ever popular Lion King rolls. ............................................................................................................................... $$

★

GREAT CHINA BUFFET • 628 S. Academy Blvd., 572-8009 This is a perfect place to take hungry teenagers: $12.49 includes a drink and as much food as they can stuff in. The broccoli beef is one of the most popular choices. ......... $$ HALLA SAN KOREAN BBQ • 1231 N. Academy Blvd., 622-9595 A special Korean sauce that’s authentic and homemade means the popular Beef Bulgogi is always fresh. ....................................................................................................................................... $$ HOUSE OF SAIGON • 1014 S. 21st St., Suite A, 473-6707, houseofsaigoncoloradosprings.com Now accepting reservations is the House of Saigon, which serves a plethora of Vietnamese and Chinese food. ............................................................................................................ $ HOUSE OF YAKITORI NO. 2 • 1612 N. Academy Blvd., 596-7511, yakitori-house.com For a measly $5.20, patrons can get two chicken sticks, white rice, soup and salad. ..... $ HOUSE OF YAKITORI NO. 5 THAI KITCHEN BY NAYA 6626 Delmonico Drive, 265-9168 Food on a stick is a popular option, but House of Yakitori also sells plenty of eggrolls to those with smaller appetites. ............................................................................................................... $ HUHOT MONGOLIAN GRILL • 5843 Constitution Ave., 574-6647; 7790 N. Academy Blvd., 598-4044; huhot.com Channel your inner warrior and try the Samurai Teriyaki., or for those looking to sweat, try the Kung Pao Yow. ............................................................................................................................ $ HUNAN SPRINGS • 24 E. Kiowa St., 634-0800, hunanspringsco.com The favorites that you come to expect are on this menu, as well as lamb and duck for the adventurous types. .......................................................................................................................... $ JACKSON CREEK CHINESE • 1054 W. Baptist Road, 487-8081 Good prices and solid renditions of Chinese favorites in a quiet setting. .......................... $ JADE DYNASTY • 106 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 6859576, jadedynastymanitousprings.com Serving Chinese greatest hits with an emphasis on Mandarin and Szechuan dishes.

Sesame chicken is a best-selling item. ............................................................................................ $ JADE GARDEN • 3105 S. Academy Blvd., 390-1888, jadegardencolorado.com The combination fried rice includes chicken, beef and shrimp for just $7.95. Take out and delivery available. ........................................................................................................................... $ JASMINE CAFÉ • 6064 Stetson Hills Blvd., 591-8989, jasminecafechineserestaurant.com Jasmine Café starts getting packed for lunch at 11:30 a.m. So unless you’ve got some extra time, it might be best to try the eggrolls after 2 p.m. .................................................... $ JASMINE GARDEN • 1425 Cipriani Loop, 481-0769, jasminegarden-monument.com Sesame, General Tao’s and Orange chicken are all under $6 during lunch. And for that price, you also get an egg roll and choice of soup. ..................................................................... $ JUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT • 3276 Centennial Blvd., 227-8690; 1760 Dublin Blvd., 531-9368; jun-japanese.com For more than 20 years, Jun Japanese has served top notch sushi, sashimi and other tasty dishes. Reserve a teppan table for a great dining experience. ......................... $$

★

22 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

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Carlos Miguel’s Features Authentic Mexican Food

$10 Off Your Ticket of $50 or More

For more info check online at www.carlosmiguels.com.

Valid at all locations C/S, Castle Rock, Frisco, Littleton, Briargate, Monument, & Highlands Ranch. Not valid w/other offers.

We Have Gift Cards

719-527-0500

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 23

Asian KOHNAMI SUSHI • 7673 N. Briargate Blvd., 599-8689, kohnamisushi.com With a lunch special starting at 11 a.m., Kohnami Sushi is a great place to stop by for a quick lunch that’s light on the wallet. ............................................................................... $ ▲ KURA JAPANESE RESTAURANT • 3478 Research Parkway, 282-8238, kurajapaneserestaurant.com With a wide variety of Japanese food, there is something for everyone on the menu, which includes summer specials. ...............................................................................................$

★

LANNA THAI • 8810 N. Union Blvd., 282-0474, lannathaicosprings.eat24hour.com If you’re craving Thai food but would rather sit at home and watch a movie, Lanna Thai offers takeout. . ........................................................................................................................$$ ▲ LANSHING CAFÉ • 9475 Briar Village Point, No. 150, 266-8351, lanshingcafe.weebly.com Daily and lunch specials are offered, and Lanshing Café is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Mondays-Saturdays, and 4:30 to 9 p.m. on Sundays. ................................................... $ ▲ LEMONGRASS BISTRO • 6840 N. Academy Blvd., 592-1391, restauranteur.com/lemongrassbistro Sure, you’ve had some coffee in your day, but have you ever had Vietnamese coffee?

Lemongrass Bistro offers it, as well as large menu of lunch and dinner items. .......$

★

LUCKY DRAGON CHINESE RESTAURANT • 402 W. Fillmore St., 635-0112 Honey, Kung Pao and General Tao’s chicken are among the most popular dishes at Lucky Dragon Chinese Restaurant. ................................................................................................... $ MAYFLOWER CHINESE RESTAURANT • 1212 U.S. 24, Woodland Park, 687-0711 While visiting the beautiful expanse that is Woodland Park, swing by Mayflower Chinese Restaurant and try the Lo Mein noodle. .......................................................................................... $ MOBO SUSHI • 5975 N. Academy Blvd., 593-8249, mobosushi.com If you love sushi but wish you could get more for your money, Mobo Sushi may be for you. This restaurant offers all-you-can-eat buffet for $13.99 at lunch and $21.99 at dinner. ............................................................................................................................................... $$ MOON STAR 2 CHINESE RESTAURANT 5873 Palmer Park Blvd., 380-9333 The sesame chicken here is a perfect dish for those who enjoy Chinese food but don’t enjoy the spice. ................................................................................................................................ $ NARAI THAI RESTAURANT • 805 Village Center Drive, 531-5175, narai-thai.com Special sauce adorns the Pad Thai noodles and makes it the most popular dish. ....... $

★

NEW CHINA KITCHEN II • 4795 Barnes Road, Suite H, 638-8800, newchinakitchenii.com Many meals at New China Kitchen are under $10, and with a gluten-free menu, there are a lot of options. ........................................................................................................................................ $ NEW PANDA and NEW PANDA 2 445A E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd., 576-9211; 1625 N. Union Blvd., 574-8336; 12225 Voyager Parkway, 481-0855; newpandarestaurant.com With three convenient locations, and many lunch items under $7, it’s easy to see why people continue to flock to New Panda. ........................................................................... $ ▲ OVERSEAS 101 • 5166 N. Academy Blvd., 534-9588 Sesame and lemon chicken are the most ordered items on this menu, and for under $10, it’s easy to see why. ................................................................................................................................. $ P.F. CHANG’S • 1725 Briargate Parkway, 593-8580, pfchangs.com The lettuce wrap appetizers are fan favorites at the upscale P.F. Chang’s. Great service and fresh ingredients are the winning formula for this national chain. .... $$ ▲

★

24 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

Dine In A Boeing KC-97!

Perfect for groups up to 250!

Hundreds of aviation pictures and artifacts!

See our two new displays: Gliders used during WWII and the Nuclear Powered Airplane!

Reservations suggested for Airplane dining: (719) 570-7656 1665 N. Newport Rd. • www.TheAirplaneRestaurant.com

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 25

Asian PEI WEI ASIAN DINER • 7148 N. Academy Blvd., 260-9922, peiwei.com P.F. Chang’s smaller sibling. Fast service, casual, affordable but with the same consistent quality. ......................................................................................................................................................... $ PHO-NOMENAL • 5825 Stetson Hills Blvd., Suite 100, 597-0277, phonomenalrestaurant.com Most of the items at Pho-nomenal are less than $10, but the combination noodle bowl is worth a little extra dough. ..........................................................................................$

★

PHO-N-THAI • 125 N. Spruce St., 329-0705, yourhoodz.com/phonthai The vast majority of the items on the menu are under $9, so lunch or dinner will fill you up without emptying your wallet. ...................................................................................................... $ RONG CHENG CHINESE RESTAURANT 6938 N. Academy Blvd., 594-4849, rongchengchinese.com With a large menu, including many sushi options, Rong Cheng will satisfy just about craving. Delicious, too. .......................................................................................................................... $ SAIGON CAFÉ • 20 E. Colorado Ave., 633-2888, coloradosaigoncafe.com For authentic Vietnamese food, look to Saigon Café. Upscale with prompt and friendly service, fans say the noodle bowls are a must-try. .......................................................... $$

★

SAIGON GRILL • 337 N. Circle Drive, 635-0720 In a new space now, this spot continues to serve up good service and terrific, affordable Vietnamese cuisine. Don’t hesitate to ask for suggestions because the staff of this family-run restaurant knows their stuff. .. ..................................................................................... $ SAIGON SPRINGS • 3408 N. Academy Blvd., 597-1175, tinyurl.com/qyhhxlw With rice noodles, the combination noodle bowl is a fan favorite. (Closed until Monday July 14.).................................................................................................................................................$

★

SAIGON WINGS • 3712 Galley Road, 597-6559 About six months ago, Pho-Viet changed hands and now offers Vietnamese food. ...........$ SAN CHANG HOUSE • 3659 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Suite 45, 598-1707 Traditional Korean fare, friendly service and generous portions, especially the banchan, which are the assortment of Korean sides. . ..........................................................................$

★

SEOUL TOFU GRILL • 296 S. Academy Blvd., 550-2000, seoultofugrill.com More than 80 Korean dishes await you at Seoul Tofu Grill — except on Wednesdays, when the restaurant is closed. ....................................................................................................................... $ SHANGRILA RESTAURANT • 8850 N. Union Blvd., 495-1738 Sweet and sour chicken is among the most frequently ordered dishes at the Shangrila.

Just about everything, regulars say, is pretty tasty. ................................................................. $ SHIN SA DONG KOREAN CUISINE • 3845 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 638-2695 Nestled in a strip mall, and serving scrumptious, authentic Korean dishes for a decent price. ............................................................................................................................................................ $ SILVER POND CHINESE GOURMET • 5670 N. Academy Blvd., 594-9343, bestsilverpondchinese.com Offering a gluten-free menu, and classic cuisine from around China, patrons keep coming back. ...................................................................................................................... $

★

SUSHI AI • 6552 S. Academy Blvd., 576-8855; 4655 Centennial Blvd., 266-5858, aisushi.us; 3215 Cinema Point, 622-8866, aisushipowers.com This upscale local chain is more than just chic, offering good food, which includes dishes beyond classic sushi or sashimi. . .............................................................................. $$

★

SUSHI RAKKYO • 9205 N. Union Blvd., 645-8754, sushirakkyo.com Start fasting, because Sushi Rakkyo offers an all-you-can-eat dinner for $24.95 per person. ........................................................................................................................... $

26 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

Winner of Gazette.com Burger Battle 2014 “Winner of Top 25 Burgers in Country!”

- Zagat, USA Today Winner of Denver Burger Battle

craverealburgers.com

7465 N. Academy Blvd.

719-264-7919

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 27

Asian SUSHI RING • 1861 S. Nevada Ave., 635-5550, sushiring.com A few rules apply for ordering all-you-can-eat sushi, including eating all the rice. The buffet is $21.95 during lunch and $27.95 for dinner. ................................................................... $ TAOS’S ORIENTAL CUISINE • 13888 Gleneagle Drive, 481-3418, taosoriental.com Near the north entrance of the Air Force Academy and down the street from the new Bass Pro Shops. During lunch, most items are less than $7, and the Thai food is very popular. ....................................................................................................................................................... $ TASTE OF CHINA • 1811 S. Academy Blvd., 596-8586, tasteofchinacoloradosprings.com There are more than 100 items on the menu at Taste of China. ............................................. $ TASTE OF KOREA • 1825 Peterson Road, 574-2060, tinyurl.com/qfykf8t From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays, Taste of Korea offers a lunch special for $7.49. The specials come with a choice of entrée, steamed rice and side dishes. ........... $ THAI BASIL • 7882 N. Academy Blvd., 268-1688, thaibasilcoloradosprings.com This bright and airy restaurant is inviting — and so are the food and the prices. The Pad Thai is $8.50, and the Thai curries are $9.50. Fans love them. . ......................................$

★

THAI LILY CUISINE & YAKITORI 8 • 319 N. Chelton Road, 597-8374, thailily.comcastbiz.net Thai Lily offers lunch specials from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, Not interested?

Check out the classic menu, most of which is priced at less than $8. ................................. $ THAI MINT • 1725 Briargate Blvd., 598-7843, thai-mint.com Thai Mint near Chapel Hills Mall serves a variety of curry for under $9 and is a longtime customer favorite. ...........................................................................................................................$ THAI SATAY • 821 Cheyenne Mountain Blvd., 540-8288, thaisataycoloradosprings.com Pad Thai, curry and spring rolls are the most ordered items on the menu at Thai Satay, which replaced Shanghai 2 Chinese Restaurant. ......................................................................... $ TOKYO JOE’S • 5086 N. Nevada Ave., 598-0142; 7495 N. Academy Blvd., 418-2279; tokyojoes.com The build-your-own bowls give you the choice of protein, carb, sauce and veggies for a low price. Check out the view at the Academy Boulevard store. ....................................$ TOMO SUSHI • 975 N. Academy Blvd., 597-2422, tomosushicoloradosprings.com Tomo Sushi offers more than just sushi, but if you’re looking for volume, the Andy Roll comes with eight pieces and a price tag of just $6.95. ............................................... $ ▲ TONG TONG KOREAN RESTAURANT • 2036 S. Academy Blvd., 591-8585 You’ll feel right at home at this family-run spot. Friendly, knowledgable service.

Excellent food. Good flavor without the heat that’s often present in classic Korean cuisine. . ..................................................................................................................................... $

★

ULTIMATE BUFFET • 3727 Bloomington St., 591-0768, ultimatebuffet.com The extensive buffet features crab legs, pizza, oysters, meat loaf and many more items.

The lunch buffet costs $7.99, while dinner buffet runs $13.49. Drinks are not included, though, and cost an extra $1.49. ........................................................................................................ $ VIETNAMESE GARDEN • 7607 N. Union Blvd., 520-9299, vietnamesegarden.net Classic dishes and if you like to play with your food, try your luck at the roll-your-own spring rolls. ................................................................................................................................................ $ WILD GINGER THAI RESTAURANT • 27 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 634-5025, tinyurl.com/lkc2bam At around $6 for lunch, the Pad Thai and the curry are popular options. ...................$

★

28 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

Come for the food

stay for the fun!

Colorado Springs’ premier location for New York-style pizza.

FREE POKER TuESdAY NIGhTS

TRIVIA

WEdNESdAY NIGhTS

LIVE MuSIC

ThuRSdAY – SATuRdAY NIGhTS

2 GREAT LOCATIONS 9475 Briar Village Point Colorado Springs 719.264.6161

1455 Cipriani Loop Monument 719.488.2252

www.backeastbarandgrill.com

The Aguilar Family Est. 1976 Mon-Thurs 10AM-7PM, Friday 10AM-8PM Saturday 11AM-5:30PM Closed Sunday

2014

719.475.9722

330 E. Colorado Avenue Colorado Springs, CO 80903 WWW.ELTACOREY.COM

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 29

Asian YOO MAE JAPANESE CUSINE • 21 E. Kiowa St., 473-8105, yoomae.com A quiet little spot with a neighborhood feel. It offers nearly 90 sushi items, including their claim to fame: rolls named for every state. They also serve some of the richest miso in town. . .......................................................................................................................................... $ ZEN FUSION SUSHI & BISTRO • 4359 Integrity Center Point, 375-3288, zenfusionsushi.com This bistro only uses the freshest fish for its innovative dishes. Get there early to avoid missing your favorites. ............................................................................................................... $$

Cajun BOURBON BROTHERS SOUTHERN KITCHEN 13021 Bass Pro Drive, 219-1830, bourbonbrotherssouthernkitchen.com Newly opened, this spot features the best food the South has to offer. ............. $

▲

CULPEPPER’S CAJUN KITCHEN • 6502 S. Academy Blvd., 282-8479, culpeppers.net With gumbo, crawfish and fried sea food on the menu, Culpepper’s hits all the high points of Cajun cuisine. . ................................................................................................$ ▲

★

MOMMA PEARL’S • 6620 Delmonico Drive, 964-0234, mommapearls.com Fried oysters, shrimp creole, catfish platters and alligator await all who dine at Momma Pearl’s. ......................................................................................................................................................... $ SPRINGS ORLEANS • 123 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 520-0123, springsorleans.com Catfish and oysters might sound good to you, but can make the kids turn up their noses.

At Springs Orleans, there is a kid menu so that you can all enjoy a night out ........ $

★

Ethiopian UCHENNA • 2501 W. Colorado Ave., 634-5070, uchennaalive.com The meat and veggie combo with your choice of chicken, lamb or beef is a popular choice at Uchenna. ........................................................................................................................ $$

★

French LA BAGUETTE • 2417 W. Colorado Ave., 577-4818, labaguetteco.com; 117 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 636-5020, labaguettedowntown. com • LA BAGUETTE FRENCH BISTRO• 4440 N. Chestnut St., 599-0686, labaguettefrenchbistro.com Fresh bread and pastries are popular at these independently owned bistros. But don’t miss the lunch menu and the French onion soup, a fan favorite. .......................... $

★

LE BISTRO • 1015 W. Colorado Ave., 634-6842, lebistrocs.com French-American cuisine served in a restored Victorian cottage. Try the Goat Cheese Feuilletage as an appetizer. ..........................................................................................................$ LA TARTINE • 1420 Kelly Johnson Blvd., 598-5550, latartinefrenchbistro.com The French onion soup at La Tartine is a crowd pleaser, and when paired with a salad or sandwich it becomes a great light meal. ................................................................................$

★

MARIGOLD CAFÉ AND BAKERY • 4605 Centennial Blvd., 599-4776, marigoldcoloradosprings.com Classical French favorites such as Escargots De Bourgogne and fish and chips, are are among the many dishes on the diverse menu at this cafe. ....................$ ▲

★

30 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 31

French PARIS CREPE WORLD CUISINE • 218 N. Tejon St., 444-0110 Sure, they’re just really thin pancakes, but Paris Crêpe World Cuisine does them right. The variety and fillings are sure to keep you happy. ............................................................. $ ▲

German EDELWEISS GERMAN RESTAURANT • 34 E. Ramona Ave., 633-2220, edelweissrest.com Doesn’t a friendly, entertaining evening with musicians and mouth-watering German food sound like the perfect night out? ......................................................................$ ▲

★

SCHNITZEL FRITZ • 4037 Tutt Blvd., 573-2000, schnitzelfritz.com The most popular item at Schnitzel Fritz is the Jägerschnitzel, which has a mushroom sauce and a dark gravy. ................................................................................................................. $

★

SCHNITZEL KING • 5644 U.S. 85\87, 638-4974, tinyurl.com/pyd43kx With 20 different kinds of schnitzel, including the Jägerschnitzel. Fans say, though, that everything is delicious. ......................................................................................................................... $ UWE’S • 31 N. Iowa Ave., 475-1611 Three schnitzel places near Colorado Springs, and Jägerschnitzel is popular at all. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to try them all. .............................................. $

★

Hawaiian L&L HAWAIIAN BARBECUE • 5850 Barnes Road, 570-1888, hawaiianbarbecue.com For the low price of $8.95, guests can order the barbecue mix plate, which has rice, macaroni salad, barbecue chicken, short ribs and beef. ........................................... $

★

TROPIX HAWAIIAN BBQ • 1831 Briargate Blvd., 532-0111 Chicken Katsu is a breaded chicken, and when covered with the slightly spicy Katsu sauce, it’s a crowd pleaser. ...........................................................................................................$

Indian THE CURRY LEAF • 3578 Hartsel Drive, 599-4737, curryleafrestaurant.com A new dish that’s gaining popularity is the Kotthu Roti, a specialty that comes with vegetables, onions and egg as well as a choice of chicken, beef or vegetarian. It’s pricey, at $14.99, but the portions are enough to feed two people. ...................................... $ EVEREST NEPAL RESTAURANT • 28 E. Bijou St., 473-3890, everestnepalrestaurant.com Spices that come from Nepal and India, as well the Chai tea, keep customers coming back. ............................................................................................................................................ $ INDIA PALACE RESTAURANT • 5644 N. Academy Blvd., 535-9196, indiapalacecoloradosprings.com The butter chicken dish is not very spicy, and with its smooth butter sauce, even spiceadverse diners can enjoy it. ................................................................................................................ $ LITTLE NEPAL RESTAURANT & BAR • 1747 S. 8th St., 477-6997; 4820 Flintridge Dr., 598-3428; lnepal.com A buffet is run every day of the week so that guests can get a little of everything. Table service is friendly in this comfortable, family-run spot. ................................. $$ ▲

★

MIRCH MASALA • 5047 N. Academy Blvd., 599-0003, mirchmasalaa.com A lunch buffet priced at $8.95. A lively atmosphere. Authentic food. ....................... $$

32 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

★

Indian TASTE OF INDIA • Food court at The Citadel Mall, 760 Citadel Drive E., 591-2105, tasteofindiacoloradosprings.com While shopping at the Citadel Mall, head over to the food court and try the fresh ingredients available at Taste of India.................................................................................... $$

★

Irish JACK QUINN IRISH ALEHOUSE AND PUB• 21 S. Tejon St., 3850766, jackquinnspub.com Jack Quinn is known for the fish and chips, but shepherd’s pie and the Celtic Reuben sandwich are also big sellers. .............................................................................................. $

★

MCCABE’S TAVERN • 520 S. Tejon St., 633-3300, mccabestavern.com Callicrate beef burgers, including the Black & Bleu, are ordered often, and for an apptizer, try the chips and curry. ...................................................................................... $

★

MCGINTY’S WOOD OVEN PUB • 11115 W. Highway 24, 686-7703, mcgintyswoodovenpub.com A playful menu features items such as Irish Angel Wings, 40 Shades of Green and The ▲ Bashful Leprechaun. ........................................................................................................$

★

O’MALLEY’S • 104 Highway 105, 488-0321, omalleys.biz The full menu is served from open to close, and O’Malley’s lets you grill for yourself. ...... $

Italian BAMBINO’S ITALIAN EATERY AND CATERING CO. 2849 E. Platte Ave., 630-8121, bambinositalian.com If the family is in the mood for pizza, but tired of pizza chains, the Bambino’s Special contains pepperoni, mushrooms, green peppers, onions, Italian sausage topped with mozzarella cheese. ................................................................................................................................. $ BELLA PANINI • 4 Colorado 105, Palmer Lake, 481-3244, bellapanini.com Snuggled up against the mountains in Palmer Lake, the views are almost as fantastic as the classic Italian food. ......................................................................................................... $ ▲



BIAGGI’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO • 1805 Briargate Parkway, 262-9500, biaggis.com The calamari is a popular appetizer at this upscale chain. It’s a crime, though, if you pass up Biaggi’s chicken Parmesan. Gluten-free available. ...........................................$$

★

BILLY’S OLD WORLD PIZZA • 308 S. 8th St., Suite E, 630-3400, billysoldworldpizza.com With cheese, Italian sausage, mushroom, onion and green peppers, the Old World Special is the most frequently ordered item. ................................................................................ $ BORRIELLO BROTHERS • multiple locations, 884-2020, borriellobrothers.com Tired of pizzas with only a handful of topping choices? Head to Borriello Brothers where you can add eggplant. Sauce and crust are stars as well. . .................. $$

★

CARRABBA’S • 2815 Geyser Drive, 527-1126; 7120 Campus Drive, 264-0401; carrabbas.com Chicken Marsala is the most popular dish at both locations, and if you are feeling like a tasty starter, try the calamari. ..................................................................................$$ ▲

★

DAT’S ITALIAN! • 2514 W. Colorado Ave., 632-3287, datsitalian.com Lasagna is the most popular item at this Old Colorado City mainstay, but it also serves ▲ great eggplant and chicken Parmesan. .........................................................................$$



DION’S • 6385 Source Center Point, 265-4645, dions.com Dion’s made a name for itself for great pizza, but the Italian and meatball subs are delicious, fans say. .................................................................................................................................. $

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 33

Italian EXTREME PIZZA • 2130 Southgate Road, Suite 108, 634-1616; 7340 N. Academy Blvd., 522-1515; extremepizza.com Subs, pizza, calzones and gluten-free options makes Extreme Pizza appealing to a wide range of customers. Try the Yard Sale pizza. ...................................................................... $$ FARGO’S PIZZA CO. • 2910 E. Platte Ave., 473-5540, fargospizza.com Since 1973, Fargo’s has been a staple on Platte Avenue. The Mainliner, with Canadian bacon, beef and pepperoni, is the most popular pizza, and Fargo’s still has magic mirrors to entertain the children. ........................................................................................... $$

★

FAZOLI’S • 1790 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd., 579-7522; 3607 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 535-0369; fazolis.com Three cheeses, as well an Alfredo sauce and mushrooms makes the Ultimate Ravioli a fan favorite. ............................................................................................................................................... $ FRATELLI RISTORANTE ITALIANO • 124 N. Nevada Ave., 575-9571, fratelliristorante.com A good Italian restaurant should make you feel like you’ve come home. After trying the Early Bistro menu or any of the dinner entrées, you’ll never want to leave. ........... $$ THE FRONT • 1670 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd., 527-0171, thefrontcs.com The Front looks like simple take out spot at first, but ask about the dining room in the back. Serves many Italian meat favorites. ..................................................................................... $ IL VICINO • 11 S. Tejon St., 475-9224; 5214 N. Nevada Ave., 590-8633; ilvicino.com Stylish regional chain. Fast service. Excellent food. Try the salads, a tasty respite from all those carbs. .................................................................................................................$ ▲

★

JOEY’S PIZZA • 1843 Briargate Blvd., 265-6922, joeysnypizza.net The Italian Stallion and the Wise Guy are just a couple examples of the playful names of pizzas here. Also offered: calzones, pepperoni rolls and Stomboli. ...............................$ LA BELLA VITA RISTORANTE • 4475 Northpark Drive, 260-4730, labellavitaristorante.net Have a taste of the beautiful life and try the Linguini alle Vongole, made with sautéed garlic, crushed pepper and white wine. Big flavors to go with the beautiful atmosphere. ............................................................................................................................. $$ LEON GESSI NEW YORK PIZZA • 1806 Palmer Park Blvd., 635-1542, leongessipizza.com Offering subs, calzones and take-and-bake pizza, Leon Gessi has been a staple in Colorado Springs for nearly 40 years. Try the Kitchen Sink pizza with, you guessed it, everything but the kitchen sink on it. .......................................................................................$ LOUIE’S PIZZA • multiple locations, louies-pizza.com One of the most popular pizza joints in town is Louie’s. Be sure to try the cheesy bread, but leave room for the pizza. .............................................................................................................. $ LUIGI’S PIZZA • 947 S. Tejon St., 632-7339, luigiscoloradosprings.com Since 1958, Luigi’s has been family owned and operated, and has a bevy of Italian homemade options, including manicotti, spaghetti and, of course, pizza. ...........$ ▲

★

MANGIA MANGIA • 406 E. Grace Ave., Woodland Park, 687-3400, mangiamangiawp.com Featured in BBC’s “Kitchen Nightmares,” Chef Gordon Ramsay helped transform all aspects of the restaurant, including the menu. ............................................................ $ ▲ MARCO’S • 9420 Briar Village Point, 434-3773; 4492 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 203-3599; 12 S. Tejon St., 368-7677; marcos.com Marco’s pizza is thick, and it’s not just the crust. The toppings are thick, too. Maybe that’s why fans say it’s the only place to get pizza in town. .............................$ ▲

★

34 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

Italian MARILYN’S HOUSE OF FINE PIZZA • 964 Mantiou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-9104 Marilyn’s means Marilyn Monroe and innovative pies. .............................................................. $ MOLLICA’S ITALIAN MARKET • 985 Garden of the Gods Road, Suite A, 598-1088, mollicasitalianmarket.com Do you have Italians coming over for dinner? Be sure to stop by Mollica’s, where anything in the store will make them feel right at home. ......................................... $

★

PANINO’S • 1721 S. 8th St., 635-1188; 604 N. Tejon St., 635-7452; paninos.com This comfortable family eatery serves Italian favorites. Try the spagetti pie, a panino filled with cheese, noodles, your choice of meat and big flavor. ......................$

Daily Specials Lunch Monday-Friday (11am-2pm)

50% Off Rolls 20% Off Sushi Voted Best Japanese, Sushi and Tempura!

For more daily Happy Hours check out Fujiyamasushi.com 22 S. Tejon • Downtown • 719-630-1167 THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 35

Italian PARAVICINI’S ITALIAN BISTRO • 2802 W. Colorado Ave., 471-8200, paravicinis.com Voted No. 1 by readers for Italian food. Comfortable atmosphere. Friendly service. Good food. Great lunch specials. Try the eggplant fries. . .............................................. $ ▲

★

PIZZERIA RUSTICA • 2527 W. Colorado Ave., 632-8121, pizzeriarustica.com Like its name, this eatery does it rustic, with only fresh ingredients and attention to seasonal offerings. Try the delicious antipasti platter. . ............................................ $ ▲ ROCCO’S • 3802 Maizeland Road, 574-1426, roccoscolorado.com Now in an larger space just yards from the original spot, Rocco’s serves classic Italian fare in a welcoming atmosphere. . .................................................................................................... $ ROMAN VILLA PIZZERIA • 3005 N. Nevada Ave., 635-1806, tinyurl.com/nja5jw6 This Springs fixture is intimate and homey, like a neighorhood joint from another age.

Come early or late because the lines can be out the door for dinner. .......................... $

★

RUFFRANO’S HELL’S KITCHEN PIZZA • 9 Ruxton Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-4355, hellskitchenmanitou.com For pizza that packs a punch try the Hellfire, with pepperoni, cherry peppers and hot Italian sausage. ......................................................................................................................... $ ▲ THE VILLA • 75 Colorado Highway 105, Palmer Lake, 481-2222, thevillapalmerlake.com Food from around the world adorns the menu at the Villa. Duck quesadillas, fish tacos and a handful of Italian favorites are popular. ............................................................$$ ▲ ZIOS • 6650 Corporate Drive, 593-9999, zios.com If you’re craving pasta but don’t want to feel guilty, try the Shrimp Limone, served with Angel Hair pasta, shrimp, artichoke hearts and more in a lemon cream sauce. ... $$

★

Jamaican JAMAICAN FLAVOR • 3016 S. Academy Blvd., 391-0142, jamaican-flavor.com You know you’re heading for the Caribbean with the smells of jerk and curry floating from this intimate restaurant. Authentic jerk chicken. Curry goat and oxtail stew aren’t for the faint of heart. And for something milder: coconut milk curry chicken. ............$

★

ISLAND GRILL TAKE OUT & CATERING • 1107 S. Nevada Ave., Suite 101, 578-1468 It’s a tiny place where you can take out Jamaican street food. The jerk chicken is recommended. .......................................................................................................................................... $ RASTA PASTA • 405 N. Tejon St., 481-6888, rastapastacs.com An eatery with a lively family atmosphere (it’s usually filled with college students).

Lots of creative dishes, including the signature Rasta Pasta with jerk chicken. The staff favorite is Spicy Jammin’: rotini, shrimp and spicy jerk in a wine sauce. It’s an environmentally friendly business that takes recycling seriously. Don’t even utter the word styrofoam. .............................................................................................................. $$ ▲

★

SPICE ISLAND GRILL • 10 N. Sierra Madre St., 473-8280, spiceislandgrill.com Reggae sets the tone at this fun place. Jamaican chefs whip up authentic Caribbean-style dishes. The sampler plate offers small bites of almost everything. On the menu: oxtail soup, curry goat, jerk chicken, fish escovitch and homemade desserts. ...................... $$$ ▲

★

36 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

Mediterranean CASPIAN CAFE • 4375 Sinton Road, 528-1155, caspiancafe.com Travel the Mediterranean world in one restaurant: spit-roasted beef and lamb gyros from Greece; kebabs from Iran and Turkey; pan-fried tilapia with basil and citrus from Portugal; Moroccan lamb; porcini-grilled rib eye from Italy; and French lamb shank with a three-bean cassoulette. That is just a tiny mouth-watering peek at what these chefs might cook up. There’s belly dancing, too. ........................................ $$–$$$ ▲

★

GRAND GYROS • 3980 Palmer Park Blvd., 597-4282, 271-0115, grandgyros.com A variety of full-flavored gyros to choose from. ...................................................$ ▲

★

GRE E K GRILLE • 4486 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 264-1165 A family-run restaurant with a friendly atmosphere. Ingredients are fresh and the Greek flavors robust. .......................................................................................................................$ HE ART OF JE RUSALE M CAFE • 4587 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 685-9554; 718 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1325; heartofjerusalemcafe.com So many excellent choices, including baba ghanoush, tabouleh, hummus, gyros, kabobs and dolmas. ......................................................................................................................... $ ▲

★

IN & OUT GYROS • 36 E . Bijou St., 635-7749 Fresh ingredients in delicious gyros. And this downtown spot is open until 9 p.m. most days of the week.. ............................................................................................................................. $ ▲ JAKE & TE LLY’S GRE E K TAVE RNA • 2616 W. Colorado Ave., 633-0406, greekdining.com Jake and Telly Topakas happily shout “Opa” and with good reason as they enthusiastically serve up flaming saganaki, tzatziki, dolmades, lamb entrees, souvlaki, gyros, brizole, and hummus. ................................................................................................................... $$ ▲

★

ME DITE RRANE AN CAFE • 118 E . Kiowa St., 633-0115, medcafe-co.com Best of the Springs voters love this cafe for their gyros, pitas, salads and hummus. And that’s just the beginning of their offerings. ........................................................................... $

★

SAHARA CAFE • 954 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-2303, thesaharacafe.com ▲ An excellent offering of Middle Eastern foods. ..................................................... $

★

TAJINE ALAMI • 10 Old Man’s Trail, Manitou Springs, 685-1119, tajinealami.com Relax on the rug-covered floor for a four- or six-course Moroccan feasts as you eat with your fingers and are entertained by belly dancers. You’ll get a lot of food, including soup, Khobz bread and Shlada mixed platter, as well as an after-dinner tea and baklava. .$$$ TASTE OF JE RUSALE M CAFE • 15 E . Bijou St., 477-1777, tasteofjerusalemcafe.com Popular downtown stop for shawarma, falafel, hummus, baba ganoush, tabouleh and baklava. ...................................................................................................................................................... $

Mexican 3 MARGARITAS • 3956 N. Academy Blvd., 573-5065; 2 Widefield Blvd., 390-9977; 3020 New Center Point, 596-5200; 1749 Lake Woodmoor Drive, 481-4415 You won’t find the same dishes at each of these restaurants but there’s a wide variety of choices. At some, you’ll fill up with the big Deluxe Burrito. At others, there is ceviche, arroz con pollo, chimichangas, tilapia and traditional dishes. .................................... $$ ALBE RTACO’S • 4494 Austin Bluffs Parkkway, 534-9412, tinyurl.com/lbj4lbr You can try the California Burrito and wash it down with Horchata 24 hours a day. ...... $

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 37

Mexican ALFONSO’S • 1022 S. 21st St., 575-9289 Alfonso’s is great anytime, but especially welcome when the tummy wants something good late at night. Fill up with the Don Poncho, an 18-inch burrito favorite and try the carne asada burrito as well. ................................................................................................................ $ AMANDA’S FONDA • 3625 W. Colorado Ave., 227-1975; 8050 N. Academy Blvd., 266-6680; amandasfonda.com A new Sunday brunch at both locations. Creekside patio at the Colorado Avenue location. Two favorites: the long list of Margaritas and the carne asada. $$ ▲

★

ARCEO’S • 1605 S. Nevada Ave., 442-2626; 4608 Rusina Road, 264-0143; arceos.biz A survivor thanks to authentic Mexican dishes, $5.50 lunch specials and a long list of house specials, including tacos, fajitas and chimichangas as well as Molcajete, a “Mexican stew,” and a combo of three chilis: chili Verde, chili relleno and chili Colorado. .............................................................................................................................................$ AZADA MEXICAN GRILL • 16 E. Bijou St., 634-8338 Made-from-scratch Latin-influenced food. Order at the counter, picking from a small menu of fillings that you can have folded into a burrito, put into tacos or poured over a bowl of rice. ........................................................................................................................................$ BEAN BANDIT • 320 N. Circle Drive, 634-9945 The Vasquez family runs one of the area’s oldest restaurants. It’s the go-to place shared by generations of local families. Chili rellenos are a favorite. ................................. $ CARLOS MIGUEL’S MEXICAN BAR & GRILL • 110 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd. 527-0500; 15910 Jackson Creek Parkway, Suite 100, Monument, 488-4687; 9605 Prominent Point, 282-7890; carlosmiguels.com This Colorado-based chain serves an upscale take on Guadalajaran-style dishes. Diners love the pollo borracho in a special habanero sauce, Carnitas Uruapan, Tijuana Steak Tacos and fire-roasted vegetables. Tableside guacamole. Service excels. .......$$ ▲ CHIPOTLE • multiple locations, chipotle.com Generous portions. Fresh ingredients. Good flavors. .......................................................... $

★

CRYSTAL PARK CANTINA • 178 Crystal Park Road, Manitou Springs, 685-5999, crystalparkcantina.com A hidden gem tucked away in Manitou Springs. It has a creative menu and great drinks with entertaining names: Fighting Sue, Speedy Chihuahua and Walk Home. Many love the chili rellenos topped with the Mexican Alfredo sauce. .......................................$$ ▲ DANIEL’S TACOS • 6815 Space Village Ave., 574-2992,; 2053 B St., 576-9699; danielstacoshop.com Enchiladas, tacos, burritos, tostados and, on Saturdays and Sundays at the Fort Carson location, there’s fresh menudo. .......................................................................................................... $ EL BURRITO GRANDE • 3669 Star Ranch Road., 579-9190; and the original family location at 7653 McLaughlin Road, Falcon, 495-2130; elburritogrande.net You have to try Mom’s Chile Verde (green chili and pork) and Mother’s Smothered Burrito with their homemade green chili......................................................................................... $ EL PADRINO MEXICAN RESTAURANT 13425 Voyager Parkway, 487-2727 This attractive, locally owned restaurant serves authentic Mexican food. ....................... $ EL POBLANO MOBILE • 230 N. Chelton Road, 209-4385 Breakfast, lunch and dinner in a popular sit-down bus. Fresh food. Bottled Mexican sodas. .......................................................................................................................................................... $ EL SUPER TACO • 2890 S. Academy Blvd., 392-2277 Fresh ingredients rule this kitchen. Open late. ............................................................................. $ EL TACO REY • 330 E. Colorado Ave., 475-9722, eltacorey.com Year after year this popular little place wins Best of the Springs in multiple categories.

It’s the real deal and the Aguilar family is like family to many who head to the counter to order. Top of the list: avocado pork burritos, hand held or smothered in delicious green chili. Other favorites include tamales and Tres Leches Cake. Wash everything down with cold, fresh lemonade. .............................................................................................................. $

★

38 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

Mexican FIESTA JALISCO • 6074 Stetson Hills Blvd., 573-8813, fiestajalisco.net Drop in for the signature arroz con pollo, or maybe a chicken molé with a hint of peanut butter. There’s Sopa de Albondigas, the Fiesta Jalisco Enchilada and even a “Crazy Donkey” Burrito Loco Azado that’s really tender skirt steak with all the fixings. ........ $$ FIESTA MEXICANA • 420 W. Midland Ave., Woodland Park, 687-3551 The staples of Mexican food are here, including fajitas and the carne asada burrito, accompanied by Margaritas. ................................................................................................................ $ GUADALAJARA MEXICAN RESTAURANT • 7336 McLaughlin Road, Falcon, 494-0700 Family owned and operated, this spot is open late in the evening and offers a large menu of items under $10. There’s a wide choice of burritos and chicken chipotle dishes. ....... $ HACIENDA COLORADO • 5246 N. Nevada Ave., 418-7999, haciendacolorado.com This newcomer in University Village has had a packed parking lot and long lines since it opened. There’s just not enough time to try all the specialties, such as Camarones Baja (stuffed with Monterey Jack and peppers and wrapped in applewood bacon before grilling), chipotle baby back ribs and Poblano de Pollo (chicken, cheese, chipotle aioli and tomatillo-corn relish). Servers are knowledgeable about the accent sauces rated with two through six peppers, and the “famous sauces” that soar up to the 8 chili caliente. . ............................................................................................................................ $$ ▲

★

JORGE’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT• 2427 W. Colorado Ave., 634-9031, tinyurl.com/kkae3fx It’s a lively family-run restaurant where you shouldn’t miss the shrimp fajitas, Enchiladas Tejanas and the Tacos de Carne Asada. ........................................................... $$

★

JOSE MULDOON’S • 222 N. Tejon St., 636-2311; 5710 S. Carefree Circle, 574-5673; josemuldoons.com It’s 40 years old this year and that says something. Specials every night, such as 99cent Toosday Tacos, Fajita Wednesdays and Thirsty Thursdays, featuring Coronitas and Margaritas. .................................................................................................................. $$

★

LA CARRETA • 35 N. Iowa Ave., 477-1157 Authentic Mexican food in a family-run restaurant. Regulars flock in for the chili rellenos and alambre, a dish with beef, bacon, onions, green peppers and cheese. The molé is a smooth treat. ........................................................................................................................ $ LA CASA FIESTA NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT 230 Front St., Monument, 481-1234, lacasafiesta.net A pretty, family owned place with southern New Mexico cuisine and special mojitos.

Check out its lovely patio, which is partially covered and has a fire pit as well as a fireplace. ....................................................................................................................................$$ ▲ LA CASITA MEXICAN GRILL • 306 S. 8th St., 633-9616; 4295 N. Nevada Ave., 599-7829; 3725 E. Woodmen Road, 536-0375; lacasitamexigrill.com Fresh tortillas right off the grill. Easy-on-the-pocketbook Mexican dishes. Popular enchiladas, tamales and a salsa bar. Best of the Springs regulars. ...............................$ LA FLOR DE JALISCO• 5520 S. U.S. Highway 85/87, Suite 103,392-4571 Traditional Mexican spot, with a mobile bus. Try the enchiladas accompanied by horchata. . ................................................................................................................................................... $ LA HACIENDA MEAT MARKET AND TAQUERIA 1714 Monterey Road, 630-0150 A new name in a familiar location. The counter is at the back of this Mexican market, so head on back to order. ........................................................................................................................... $ LA MISSION • 7634 McLaughlin Road, Falcon, 495-7052, La Mission Restaurant Falcon Colorado on Facebook Authentic Mexican fare with the family’s green chili. Enchilada stacks, hearty breakfast burritos with scrambled eggs, chorizo and potatoes, and chili cheese fries with green chili are just some of the interesting favorites. ........................................................................... $

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 39

Mexican LA ROSA SOUTHWESTERN DINING • 25 Highway 105, Palmer Lake, 368-7676, larosasouthwesterndining.com It’s well worth driving to Palmer Lake to eat at La Rosa where the owner says, “It’s all about the chili.” . ....................................................................................................................................... $ LA SINALOENSE • 642 S. Academy Blvd., 550-1213 A little Mexican restaurant in a tiny shopping center. But here’s the real find: It’s also a Mexican bakery with dessert empanadas, tres leches cake, conchas, donuts and other sweets. . ....................................................................................................................................................... $ LAS PALMITAS • 6805 Corporate Drive, Suite 110, 260-9393 Hidden away in a corner of the former Tiffany Square mall, now a business and college complex. A large menu. Customers rave about the salsa with cabbage, fajitas and the use of a molcajete. . ................................................................................................................................. $ LA UNICA AUTENTICO • 3317 W. Colorado Ave., 633-7499 Popular and colorful restaurant with excellent chili rellenos, chipotle pork and enchiladas, Mexican beers and Margaritas. Open two days a week for lunch and Tuesday through Saturday for dinner. These are the same owners as the Taqueria La Unica at 2306 E. East Platte Ave., 632-2508. ......................................................................................... $$ THE LOOP • 965 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-9344, theloopatmanitou.com Fans of the Loop are fiercely loyal and will tell you all about the restaurant’s huge (and huge selection of) Margaritas. Grab a spot by the fireplace, and fill your belly with a vast selection of Mexican favorites. ................................................................................................... $

★

LUCHA CANTINA • 23 S. Tejon St., 635-7661, luchacantina.com A sleek, contemporary, downtown location with freshly prepared dishes and Colorado ingredients such as chilies from Pueblo and Red Bird chicken from Denver. The fish tacos, doused with one of the seven salsas, are a lunch favorite. And how about the loaded blue-corn enchiladas? They do burgers, too, including this unbelievable combination: PB&J bacon cheeseburger. Sunday brunch. ............................................. $$ MARIA’S TACO SHOP • 2812 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 471-4525, marias-tacoshop.com This family-owned spot is known for tasty fish tacos and seafood specialties, including Fajitas de Camarones and Camarones a la Diabla. There are gorditas, tortas and dessert specials, all to be washed down with horchata. ........................................................................... $ MONICA’S TACO SHOP • 30 E. Fillmore St., 473-1996; 5829 Palmer Park Blvd., 597-7022 Different family members and menus are at each location, but the Fillmore Street site is better known. As the name says, try the tacos, but don’t overlook Mexican cilantroheavy food treats, as well as the carne asada burritos, red and green sauces, carne asada fries and breakfast burritos. ................................................................................... $

★

ON THE BORDER • 7695 N. Academy Blvd., 645-7560; 2190 Southgate Road, 645-7570; 5832 Barnes Road, 645-7340; ontheborder.com Wide variety of Mexican-style dishes. Interesting must-tries such as fried avocado appetizers, brisket quesadillas, the El Patron combo of carne asada, beef enchilada, tamale and cheese enchilada in red chili sauce and a beef taco. And end it with flan, sopapillas or Kahlua ice cream pie. . .............................................................................................. $$ PUEBLO VIEJO • 5598 N. Academy Blvd., 266-1999; 5934 Stetson Hills Blvd., 638-6040 So much to try: Chile rellenos, chicken ranchero, Steak Campestere, Chicken Ranchera, carne asada and their sopapillas. Fans ask to take their salsa home. ................$$ ▲ QDOBA MEXICAN GRILL, 1916 Southgate Road, 635-3663; 1605 Briargate Parkway, Suite 131, 264-6185; 3670 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Suite 100, 265-1858; qdoba.com Queso burritos with your choice of fillings. Grilled chicken quesadillas; taco salads; cheese nachos; and sometimes some seasonal-special salads. .......................................................... $ QUIJOTES MEXICAN GRILL AND QUIJOTES TACOS AND MARGARITAS • 208 N. Union Blvd., 313-9127 Word of mouth superlatives launched this favorite into both a breakfast and lunch spot and, next door, an evening/late night spot. All your Mexican food favorites. Frequently called the best Mexican food in town by regulars. ...................................................................... $

40 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

Mexican RANCHO ALEGRE • 1899 S. Nevada Ave., 329-1276 There are traditional Mexican platters and some taste adventures. A nice surprise: the beautifully prepared vegetarian fajitas. When it comes to servers and service, Rancho Alegre shines. .......................................................................................................................................... $$ RODOLFO’S MEXICAN GRILL • 15932 Jackson Creek Parkway, Monument, 487-9410 The salsa bar gets rave reviews, as does the vegetable escabeche. Counter service with a wide variety of Mexican dishes. Popular rolled tacos ........................................................................ $ RUDY’S LITTLE HIDEAWAY • 945 S. 8th St., 632-9527, tinyurl.com/l5lfdgn Rudy’s serves generous portions of hearty food. There are chili relleno omelets, smothered pork cutlets served with eggs and home fries or beans. $ ▲

★

SALSA BRAVA FRESH MEXICAN GRILL 9420 Briar Village Point, 955-6650; 802 Village Center Drive, 266-9244; salsabravaonline.com All the food is made fresh from scratch daily and there is no lard or MSG used. Standard cuisine gets a creative twists, such as the tableside chicken fajita burrito bowl. The tortilla soup is an excellent choice, packed with fajita chicken and fresh avocado chunks. A dish not to miss: coconut shrimp. ........................................................................................... $$ ▲

★

SALSA LATINA • 28 E. Rio Grande St., 328-1513, salsalatinas.com Danny Aguilar and his family have been stalwarts of the Mexican food community for many years and offer homemade dishes, including tamales, avocado and pork burritos, green chili and create-your-own combo plates. Always check if it’s chili rellenos day.............................$ SANCHO’S MEXICAN GRUB • 1829 Briargate Blvd., 203-6073 Good grub, especially the beef, chicken and cheese enchiladas, as well as the green chili. ............................................................................................................................ $ SENOR MANUEL’S • 4660 N. Nevada Ave., 598-3003, senormanuel.com Run by three generations since 1970. Fab Margaritas. Fajitas, red chili and chimichangas are favorites. ..................................................................................................................................................... $ SERRANO’S MEXICAN BAR AND GRILL • 730 E. Highway 24, Woodland Park, 687-7150; 1025 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1024 Among customer favorites from the Woodland Park site are the fajitas, chicken molé and the sopapillas. A Manitou location scheduled to open in July. . ................................................... $ SONTERRA GRILL • 28B S. Tejon St., 471-9222, sonterragrill.com Upscale cool. Great happy hour. Mexican standards with a tasty twist. . ................................. $ TACO EXPRESS • 5850 Tutt Blvd., 573-7736; 1455 S. Nevada Ave., 520-5553 Corn tacos deep fried into crispy shells while you wait. Big burritos. ............................... $

★

TACO STAR • 605 N. Circle Drive, 520-3599; 318 N. Wahsatch Ave., 630-3646 This taqueria makes some of the best bacon burritos around. And as a bonus, the driveup is open 24-7. ................................................................................................................................................... $ TLAQUEPAQUE • 911 N. Murray Blvd., 597-4727 Traditional Mexican food. .............................................................................................................................. $ TORTILLERIA DELICIAS • 513 S. Circle Drive, 471-2244 Traditional Mexican fare. Fresh tortillas and you can get a dozen to go. ................................. $ VALLEJO’S RESTAURANT • 111 S. Corona St., 635-0980, tinyurl.com/q8ozo86 Family owned. Don’t miss the sour cream enchiladas on Thursdays, and chili rellenos on Fridays. The art on the wall is by family members, too. ................................................................... $ VI’S NEW MEXICAN FOOD • 1835 Main St., Security, 391-8257 Guess what they have: sloppers. And the green chili that smothers them is homemade........ $

THE GAZETTE / 2014 DINING GUIDE / 41

Caterers CRAVINGS CATERING • 1701-A S. 8th St., 635-0200, cravingscatering.com Executive chef Jenna Hines creates a playful menu tailored to your event. A must-try is the mashed potato bar with spuds served in martini glasses with a host of decadent ingredients and toppings. .......................................................................................................... $$

★

BUFFALO GALS GRILLING • 1701-A S.8th St., 635-0200, pbcatering.com With a variety of dishes to choose from, including burgers, bratwurst and hot dogs, there is sure to be something that pleases your palate off the grill.. ......................... $$

★

PICNIC BASKET CATERING • 1701-A S. 8th St., 635-0200, pbcatering.com Perfect for corporate events. Picnic Basket will make your next event a hit with popular dishes, such as almond-stuffed dates wrapped in bacon. ............................................... $$

★

THE PINERY AT THE HILL • 775 W. Bijou St., 634-7772; PINERY AT BLACK FOREST • 12375 Black Forest Road; thepinery.com Pinery catering is widely considered top notch. Caters meals for large parties, intimate ▲ dinners and weddings. ............................................................................................... $$$

★

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INDEX

North

Amanda’s Fonda ............................................19 Back East Bar & Grill....................................29 Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano ...................... 27 Bird Dog BBQ...................................................21 Carlos Miguel’s Mexican Restaurant ..... 23 Chaang Thai ................................................... 25 Colorado Mountain Brewery ......................11 Crave Real Burgers...................................... 27 Lemongrass Bistro ........................................11 Marco’s ............................................................ 23 Old Chicago ..................................................... 17 Salsa Brava .....................................................31

DowNtowN

El Taco Rey .....................................................29 The Famous Steak House ........................... 12 Fargo’s Pizza .................................................. 23 Fujiyama ..........................................................35 Jose Muldoon’s ................................................2 King’s Chef Diner ...........................................10 Mackenzie’s Chop House ..............................2 Marco’s ............................................................35 Melting Pot ......................................................13 Old Chicago ..................................................... 17 Over Easy .........................................................31 Phantom Canyon ..........................................44 The Pinery at the Hill ................................... 17 Ritz Grill..............................................................2 Sonterra Grill ..................................................31 Springs Orleans .............................................15

west

503 W..................................................................11 Amanda’s Fonda ............................................19 Bon Ton’s Café................................................19 Carlos Miguel’s Mexican Restaurant ..... 23 Heart of Jerusalem Café ............................19

west

Le Bistro .......................................................... 23 Mason Jar ........................................................15 Paravicini’s Italian Bistro ............................11 Pizzeria Rustica .............................................31

CeNtral

Bird Dog BBQ...................................................21 Heart of Jerusalem Café ............................19 La Casita Mexican Grill ................................15 Marigold Café and Bakery..........................13 Marco’s ............................................................35 Mollica’s Italian Market ............................... 17 Old Chicago ..................................................... 17 Over Easy .........................................................31 Patty Jewett Bar & Grill ............................. 23

Powers CorriDor Bird Dog BBQ...................................................21 Carlos Miguel’s Mexican Restaurant ..... 23 Jose Muldoon’s ................................................2 Old Chicago ..................................................... 17

south

The Airplane Restaurant ........................... 25 Bird Dog BBQ...................................................21 Buffalo Gals.................................................... 25 Carlos Miguel’s Mexican Restaurant ..... 23 Cravings Catering ........................................ 25 Flatiron’s American Bar & Grill ............... 2 Joseph’s Fine Dining ....................................21 La Casita Mexican Grill ................................15 Picnic Basket Catering ............................... 25 Rustler’s Country Café ...............................29

east

La Casita Mexican Grill ................................15 The Pinery at Black Forest......................... 17

42 / 2014 DINING GUIDE / THE GAZETTE

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