AwardsPeoplesChoice2011Boulder Countys Finest Eats, Drinks, Entertainment,Services, Faces, Places, Shopping and more!Subaru and Boulder,made for each other.THANKS, BOULDER! WERE HONORED TO BE #1 AGAIN!5995 Arapahoe, Boulder, CO303.443.0114 www.flatironssubaru.comSTRAIGHT ANSWERS, KNOWLEDGEABLE SALESPEOPLE, NEVER ANY PRESSURESAME FAMILY DOING BUSINESS IN BOULDER FOR OVER 60 YEARS Decidedly Different2011 SUBARUFORESTER2.5X2011 SUBARUOUTBACK2.5i 2.5iStock #80331 Model BFA Stock #80331 Model BDA27MPGLease from$159per month+ Tax36 months, 10K/year. $3895 cap reduction, plus 1st payment, plus D/H Due at lease signing.No SECURITY Deposit.36 months, 10K/year. $3895 cap reduction, plus 1st payment, plus D/H Due at lease signing.No SECURITY Deposit.TOPSAFETYPICK2011Subaru - The onlymanufacturer withIIHS Top SafetyPicks for all2011 models.TOPSAFETYPICK2011Subaru - The onlymanufacturer withIIHS Top SafetyPicks for all2011 models. 2.5L 4 Cyl. 170-HP Engine Power Windows/Locks/Mirrors AM/FM Stereo with CD Stability Control Remote Keyless Entry Cruise Control Alloy Wheels Roof Rack 2.5L 4 Cyl. 170-HP Engine Power Windows/Locks/Mirrors Stability Control Cruise Control Remote Keyless AM/FM Stereo with CD36 m29MPGLease from$199per month+ Tax2011 BoulderCounty GOLDPEOPLES CHOICE AWARDS WinnersEATSBest All You Can EatJapangoRU (Tie): Country Buffet AND The TajBest American RestaurantThe KitchenRU: MurphysBest Asian RestaurantJapangoRU: Chez ThuyBest BakeryBreadworksRU: Spruce ConfectionsBest BarSundown SaloonRU: Dark HorseBest BarbecueThe Rib HouseRU: KTsBest BurritoIllegal PetesRU: ChipotleBest CatererA Spice of LifeRU: The Rib HouseBest CoffeehouseVicsRU: OzoBest DeliSalvaggiosRU: SnarfsBest Happy HourThe Mediteranean (The Med)RU: (Tie) Boulder CafeRU: (Tie) Boulder ChophouseBest Ice Cream/Frozen YogurtGlacierRU: RippleBest Indian RestaurantTandoori GrillRU: The TajBest Italian RestaurantCarellisRU: LaudisioBest Late-Night RestaurantCosmosRU: (Tie) Corner BarRU: (Tie) KitchenBest Mexican RestaurantEfrainsRU: AgaveBest New BarAbsinthe HouseRU: Kitchen Next DoorBest New RestaurantPizzeria LocaleRU: Kitchen Next DoorBest Outdoor DiningThe Mediteranean (The Med)RU: Rio GrandeBest PizzaDa LupoRU: Tie AbosRU: Tie CosmosBest Seafood RestaurantJax Fish HouseRU: Red LobsterBest SushiJapangoRU: (Tie) Hapa SushiRU: (Tie) Sushi ZanmaiBest Take-out FoodNoodles & CoRU: Khow ThaiBest Tap HouseAvery BrewingRU: Mountain SunBest Vegetarian RestaurantLeafRU: Mad GreensBest Gunbarrel/Niwot RestaurantColterraRU: TreppedasBest Lafayette/Louisville/Superior/Erie RestaurantEmpireRU: HuckleberryBest Longmont/Lyons RestaurantOskar BluesRU: SugarbeetBest BreakfastLucillesRU: The BuffBest BrunchBrasserie Ten TenRU: LucillesBest AppetizersThe Mediteranean (The Med)RU: Brasserie Ten TenBest Place for aRomantic DinnerCarellisRU: Flagstaff HouseBest Place for Tea:DushanbeRU: PekoeBest Dessert:Cheesecake FactoryRU: KitchenBest Restaurant Service:FrascaRU: Flagstaff HouseBest Restaurant to Bring KidsRed RobinRU: (Tie) NoodlesRU: (Tie) Southern SunBest Place to Hear Live MusicBoulder TheatreRU: FoxBest Theater PerformanceBoulder Dinner TheaterRU: Shakespeare FestivalBest Boulder County EventCreek FestRU: Bolder BoulderSERVICESBest AC/Heating ServicePrecision Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & ElectricalRU: Save Home Heat CompanyBest Auto DealerFlatirons SubaruRU: Larry H. Miller Toyota BoulderBest Auto Repair Shop/Service Dept.Hoshi MotorsRU: (Tie) - Baseline Auto Service AND PellmansAutomotive ServiceBest Oil ChangeGrease MonkeyRU: Jiffy LubeBest Car WashPuddle Car WashRU: (TIE) Black Diamond Car WashRU: (TIE) Main Street Car WashBest Carpet Cleaning ServiceNesheimsRU: Chem-Dry of BoulderBest Child Care CenterTake-A-BreakRU: YWCA Childrens AlleyBest Chiropractic ClinicThe JointRU: Swan Lake Chiropractic ClinicBest Colorado Ski ResortVailRU: Eldora Mountain ResortBest Customer ServiceMcGuckin HardwareRU: Apple StoreBest Financial InstitutionElevations Credit UnionRU: Wells FargoBest DentistTed Kawulok, D.D.S., Whole Family DentistryRU: (TIE) F. Robert Murphy, D.D.S., North Boulder DentalRU: (TIE) Vincent F. Cleeves, Jr., D.D.S.Best Dry Cleaner/LaundromatArt CleanersRU: Johns CleanersBest Place to Work OutRally Sport Health & Fitness ClubRU: YMCA of Boulder ValleyBest Pilates/Yoga CenterRally Sport Health & Fitness ClubRU: Yoga PodBest Hair SalonSalon SalonRU: (TIE) The ParlourRU: (TIE) FIXBest Health ClinicBoulder Medical CenterRU: Kaiser PermanenteBest Hearing Aid CenterFamily Hearing CenterRU: Hearing Health Care CenterBest Holistic Care/Wellness CenterFrasier Meadows Retirement CommunityRU: Health Center of Integrated Therapies,Longmont United HospitalBest Funeral Home Service ProviderGreenwood & Myers Funeral ServicesRU: Crist MortuaryBest Interior Design StudioBartlett InteriorsRU: Niwot InteriorsBest Karate/Martial Arts Studio:Trans Martial ArtsRU: Way of the Crane Martial ArtsBest Lasik/Laser Eye Facility/SurgeonBeyer Laser CenterRU: Insight LasikBest Law FirmBerg Hill Greenleaf & Ruscitti LLPRU: (Tie) Caplan and Earnest LLCRU: (Tie) Laszlo LawBest Medical FacilityBoulder Community HospitalRU: Boulder Medical CenterBest Medical Marijuana DispensaryThe Med ShedRU: (TIE) Boulder Kind CareRU: (TIE) High Grade AlternativesBest Moving CompanyTaylor MovingRU: (TIE) Bergs Small MovesRU: (TIE) Two Men And A TruckBest Pet Boarding ServiceCottonwood KennelsRU: Broadway Animal HospitalBest Pet Grooming ServiceThe HydrantRU: Broadway Animal HospitalBest VeterinarianBroadway Animal HospitalRU: Alpine Animal HospitalBest Place for Personal TrainingRally Sport Health & Fitness ClubRU: Colorado Athletic ClubBest Place for WorshipFlatirons Community ChurchRU: First Presbyterian ChurchBest Real Estate AgentPaul RoachRU: (TIE) Gail MockRU: (TIE) Kathy SidneyBest Real Estate Company/OfficeWright Kingdom Real EstateRU: RE/MAX of BoulderBest Retirement/Alternative or Elder Care/AssistedLivingThe AcademyRU: Frasier MeadowsBest Local SchoolBoulder High SchoolRU: Fairview High SchoolBest TeacherMonica Augustine, Wildflower School of VoiceRU: Holly Hansburg, Rocky Mountain Day CampBest SpaEssentiels SpaRU: Spa at St. JulienBest Skincare FacilityLaser & Cosmetic AssociatesRU: Essentiels SpaBest Storage FacilityBoulder Bins Self StorageRU: Boulder Self StorageBest Tanning SalonTans To GoRU: Veranda SunBest Travel AgencyJames TravelRU: Cain TravelBest Singles HangoutMediterranean RestaurantRU: (TIE) Sundown SaloonRU: (TIE) Walrus SaloonBest Place to Entertain KidsPearl Street MallRU: Gateway Fun ParkBest Day CampRocky Mountain Day CampRU: (Tie) YMCA of Boulder ValleyRU: (Tie) Altogether OutdoorsBest Local EmployerBoulder Community HospitalRU: University of Colorado (Boulder)Best Non-Profit OrganizationEco-cycleRU: Humane Society of Boulder ValleyBest Activist/Community ChampionPeggy ArnoldRU: Lee ShainisBest Local CelebrityRyan Van DuzerRU: Mitch CarsonSHOPPERSBest Antique Dealer AND Best Consignment StoreThe Amazing Garage SaleRU Best Antique Dealer (Tie) : Mikki Rainey (Classic Facets)RU Best Antique Dealer (Tie) : Bedell & CompanyRU for Best Consignment Store: Rags to RichesBest Antique Jewelry StoreClassic FacetsRU: Bedell & CompanyBest Art GalleryMary Williams Fine ArtsRU: Art & SoulBest Art Supply & Hobby StoreMichaelsRU: Guirys Color SourceBest Bedding/Linens/Mattress StoreVerloRU: Urban MattressBest Bicycle ShopUniversity BicyclesRU: Full CycleBest BookstoreBoulder BookstoreRU: Barnes & NobleBest Childrens StoreGrandrabbitsRU: Real BabyBest Camera StoreMikes CameraRU: Best BuyBest Costume StoreThe RitzRU: Candys Vintage ClothingBest Mens Clothing StoreThe Regiment ShopRU: WeekendsBest Womens Clothing StoreJJ WellsRU: Barbara & CompanyBest Shoe StorePedestrian ShopsRU: Two Sole SistersBest Eye Care StoreAspen EyewearRU: EnvisionBest Floor Covering StoreAtlas FlooringRU: Go Green FlooringBest Florist AND Best Garden CenterAND Best Plant NurserySturtz & CopelandRU for Best Florist: Fiori FlowersRU for Best Garden Center: Harlequins GardensRU for Best Plant Nursery: Harlequins GardensBest Tree NurseryThe Tree FarmRU: Harlequins GardensBest Gift ShopJacque MichelleRU: Nomad BeadsBest Green Products/Services StoreMcGuckin HardwareRU: Namaste SolarBest Grocery StoreWhole FoodsRU: Sunflower MarketBest Hardware StoreMcGuckin HardwareRU (TIE): Home Depot AND ACE HardwareBest Home Furnishings StoreThe Amazing Garage SaleRU: Bartlett InteriorsBest Housewares & Kitchen Goods StorePeppercornRU: McGuckin HardwareBest Hydroponics StoreFamily HydroponicsRU (TIE): One Love Garden Supply AND Way to GrowBest Imported Goods StoreCost Plus World MarketRU: Indochine Home ImportBest Jewelry Store AND Best Company/Store thatGives Back to the CommunityWalters and Hogsett Fine JewelersRU for Best Jewelry Store: Classic FacetsRU for Best Company/Store that Gives Back to theCommunity: Aspen EyewearBest Liquor StoreLiquor MartRU: North Boulder LiquorBest Pet Store/Bakery/Deli AND Best LocallyOwned StoreP.C.s Pantry for Dogs & CatsRU for Best Pet Store/Bakery/Deli: Whole PetsRU for Best Locally Owned Store: McGuckin HardwareBest Place to Buy Musical InstrumentsRobbs Boulder MusicRU: HB WoodsongsBest Recycled Goods/Thrift StoreHospiceCare and Share Thrift ShopRU: SaversBest Running StoreBoulder Running CompanyRU: Fleet FeetBest Sporting Goods Store AND Best OutdoorRecreation StoreREIRU for Best Sporting Goods: Sports AuthorityRU for Best Outdoor Recreation Store: NeptuneMountaineeringBest Place to Buy Custom Counter TopsMoros FabricationRU: Dons Custom CountertopsBest Place to Buy Windows (within Colorado)SolarGlass Window & DoorRU: Accent WindowsBest Place to Buy Window Treatments (within Colorado)Innovative Openings Inc.RU: Howards DraperiesBest Shopping Destination (within Colorado)Pearl Street MallRU:Twenty Ninth StreetSEPTEMBER2011 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 1 C A ME R APeoples Choice Awards2011 Boulder County GoldWriters: L.L. Charles, Judy Finman, Julie Kailus,Nica Rognmoe, Darren ThornberryPhotographer: Jonathan CastnerData Entry & Verification: Boulder StaffingResearch Contributor: Joan Beckett Designer & Editor: Greg StoneBoulder County Gold is a marketing feature of your Camera. Copyright 2010.For advertising information, call your consultant or 303.473.1400.Look up Boulder County Gold winners throughout the year at BoulderCountyGold.com.To subscribe to the Daily Camera, call 303.444.3444 or visit DailyCamera.com.Contents3-18 EATS, DRINKS & ENTERTAINMENT19-36 SERVICES, FACES & PLACES37-52 SHOPPERS PARADISE54 LIST OF WINNERS & RUNNERS-UPContributors:2525 ARAPAHOE In The Village Boulder m-f 7:30-8, sat 8-6, sun 9-6 mcguckin.com (303) 443-1822When yourelooking for theBEST!Look for theGREENVEST!Locally Owned and Operated by thesame Boulder Family since 1955!and for voting usBEST HARDWARESTOREandBEST CUSTOMERSERVICEandBEST GREENPRODUCTS/SERVICES STOREand Runner Up forBEST LOCALLYOWNED STORETHANK YOUBoulder for yourcontinued loyaltyfollow us on2 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER2011 C A ME R AEats, Drinks andEntertainmentBEST NEW RESTAURANTPizzeria Locale1730 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.3003, www.pizzerialocale.comThis contemporary pizzeria, from the creators of Frasca Food and Wine, is inspiredby the traditional pizzerias of Napoli, Italy. Two Frasca alumni, General ManagerChris Donato and Pizzaiolo Jordan Wallace, both trainied in Italy, are in charge.Donato says the neighborhood pizzeria theme works well. Its a communitymeeting spot, a relaxed environment where everyone hangs out. The pizza isdelicious, made with basic ingredients, and theres wine on tap. Here we followthe traditions of hundreds of years of using certain ingredients buffalo mozzarella,San Marzano tomatoes, Caputo 00 [zero zero] flour. We offer warm hospitality,a well informed staff and people are taken care of. Wallace, who had workedhis way up to sous chef at Frascas, explains that pizzaiolo is the name given tothe head chef. Its a prestigious role in Naples, held by some for a long term.They design the menu, are the face of the pizzeria and are treated as celebrities.Enhancing its bona fides, Pizzeria Locale claims to have the first Stefano Ferraraoven in Colorado and the first V.D.F. prosciutto slicer in North America. You findthis style of wood-burning oven in pizzerias in Naples, says Wallace. They aremade of brick, stone, sand and mortar and can reach temperatures of 850 to 950degrees Fahrenheit. The V.D.F. slicer is an antique Belgian model restored by anItalian family. Fantastico!The Kitchen [Next Door]1035 Pearl St., Boulder, 720.542.8159, www.thekitchennextdoor.comRistoranteItalianoNEWSWANKYOSTERIABAR&LOUNGELIVEJAZZ EVERYFRIDAY NIGHT WITHGEORGENELSONHAPPYHOUR3:306:00DAILYCHEFLAURASOLOMONS NIGHTLY FRESHFISHSPECIALSYOUVE GOT TOGOTOCARELLIS!ITS OLDSCHOOL.ITS COMFORTABLE. ITS NOT PRETENTIOUS.DENVERPOST303.938.9300reservations happily accepted www.carellis.com6 4 5 3 0 T H S T R E E TB O U L D E R C O 8 0 3 0 3Thank you, Boulderfor voting CarellisBest Italian EaterySEPTEMBER2011 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 3 C A ME R ABEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANTJax Fish House928 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.1811,www.jaxfishhouseboulder.comOnce again, Jax takes the prize for best seafood in this landlocked part of the world.Adam Reed, executive manager of the three Jax Fish House restaurants, Boulder,Denver and Fort Collins, says, We have had a steadfast commitment to the freshestseafood since we opened 17 years ago. Our guests can trust the freshness of ourfood. Its a unique place, with familial staff, regulars who come year after year,and new people all the time. Whats especially popular at Jax? Our calamari setsus apart. Its really fun to see the menu evolve. Our chef, Adam Watts, takes aseasonal, sustainable, local approach to the menu. We have sources in Colorado forstriped bass and catfish, among other fish. Every Thursday is farm to table night;we serve what we bought at yesterdays farmers market. Our fish is tremendouslyfresh, the best possible, high quality, with delivery from both coasts. Its thefreshest fish in Colorado.Red Lobster2177 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, 303.485.9898; 299 E. Flatiron Crossing Drive, Broomfield,303.460.8100, www.redlobster.comBEST BARBECUEThe Rib House1801 13th St., Boulder, 303.442.RIBS; 1920 S. Coffman St., Longmont,303.485.6988, www.theribhouse.comBarbecue is a touchy subject. Depending on where you grew up, it can mean pulledpork doused in vinegar and pepper sauce, chicken dripping with sweet marinade,dry rubbed ribs or any number of other flavor combinations. We all think our versionis the right one. Arguments and cook-offs ensue. In the midst of all this controversystands The Rib House, a Kansas City-style barbecue joint that leaves no opportunityfor squabbling because everyones mouth is too full of chef Tracys famous illegalribs. Slow cooked to perfection, so tender that the meat is falling off the bone andserved with your choice of four warm sauces on the side, these baby back ribs arerelentlessly delicious. The Rib House is home to a wide range of hickory smokeddelights sausage, brisket, turkey, chicken and ham as well as lip-smackingsides like okra, spicy BBQ beans, coleslaw, two kinds of potato salad, red skinnedmashed potatoes, fries and a cant-miss cheesy corn bake. Enjoy your order in-housewith a cold beer or get it to go so you can share it with other reformed barbecueconnoisseurs.KTs Barbecue2675 13th St., Boulder, 303.442.3717, 7464 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder,303.786.7608, www.ktsbbq.comLocally owned& operated bythe Taylor Familysince 1996Visit Our Website @ TAYLORMOVE.COMAnd Let Us Show You Why We Are Consistently The Top Mover In Boulder CountyLLCTaylor Movingand storageIT'SNOTJUSTWHATWEDO,IT'SHOWWEDOITTHANKYOUFORVOTINGUSBOULDERCOUNTY'SMOSTTRUSTEDMOVERAGAIN&AGAIN!LICENSEDBONDEDINSUREDPROUD MEMBER OF TOM MARTINO'S EXCLUSIVE REFERRAL LISTCall Today For A Friendly, Free Estimate303-443-58854 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER2011 C A ME R ABEST PLACE FOR A ROMANTIC DINNERAND BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANTCarellis of Boulder Ristorante Italiano645 30thSt., Boulder, 303.938.9300, www.carellis.comBoulder loves Carellis. Weve been here 21 years, says owner Greg Carelli, whotrained as a chef in his fathers Chicago restaurant. We do well because wereowner-operated. Im here every day. Were a great neighborhood trattoria. Wegive good value and good price points. And then theres the food. Im a kitchenguy; food is a priority for me. Hes fluent in Italian and goes to Italy every yearto buy and to experience food and life there. He infuses those influences intothe restaurant. My chefs accredited. Shes an artist like me. She brings in localproducts and imported ones that you cant get anywhere else. We can createsomething special. And the atmosphere is the third ingredient for success inbusiness and for a romantic evening. Architecturally, this place is stunning. Wehad a vision for using natural wood like cherry and birch, and copper detailing.We have four fireplaces, nice warm hues. Good food and good atmosphere createsgood theater. We spared no expense on dcor; its beautiful here. And with livejazz and old standards playing in the background, who wouldnt fall in love?BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT: Laudisio Italian Restaurant1710 29thSt., Ste. 1076, Boulder, 303.442.1300, www.laudisio.comBEST PLACE FOR A ROMANTIC DINNER: Flagstaff House1138 Flagstaff Road, Boulder, 303.442.4640, www.flagstaffhouse.comBEST NEW BARAbsinthe House1109 Walnut St., Boulder 303.443.8600, www.BoulderAbsintheHouse.comAbsinthe House opened last summer with an international theme. My businesspartner is from Belgium and I worked in Europe for years, says co-owner EricTurner. We do European restaurants and bars. We wanted a European flavor,something that differentiates us from other Boulder bars, which are mainly sportsbars, or microbreweries, none with international flair and also a nightclub. We haveDJs from all over the world. Besides absinthe and other European-style drinks, theEuropean theme is evident in the international menu, which offers popular panini,salads, pasta dishes and upscale pub foods. The menu frequently changes. Wehave a great venue, various kinds of music and theme nights, like a 1980s Europeanhappy hour on the roof. Because of its location, some people come in expectingthe Foundry, which used to be in the same space. We have music, DJs, dancingfood and drinks, not what was here before, Turner says. Besides its Boulder Goldaward, Absinthe House was just named Best New Bar in the Denver Metro Area, byMetromix.com, an entertainment website.The Kitchen [Next Door]1035 Pearl St., Boulder, 720.542.8159, www.thekitchennextdoor.comBEST RESTAURANT SERVICE:Frasca Food & Wine1738 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.442.6966, www.frascafoodandwine.comIt may not be a surprise that Frasca, home to award-winning Friuli-Venezia Giulian-style cuisine, took home the Boulder Count Gold for customer service. The finestdining establishments must have a complementary mix of inspired food andservice. Hiring a top-notch staff is just the start. When I sit down to hire someone,their resume is not the most important thing I consider, says Master Sommelierand co-owner Bobby Stuckey. The most important thing is that I notice that theemployee cares about people. Another focus is ambience. An elegant, calm settingis something Frasca regulars have come to expect. Weve worked really hard tomanage sound, so even on a busy Saturday night, every guest can hear and talk toeach other, which lends itself to a better dining experience, he says. But perhapsthe most critical yet intangible aspect of service is empathy. Stuckey says, If aguest is rushing from Denver in a snowstorm to make a 5:30 reservation, the bestthing we can do is to be honored and humbled that theyre making such a hugeeffort.Flagstaff House Restaurant1138 Flagstaff Road, Boulder, 303.442.4640, www.flagstaffhouse.comSEPTEMBER2011 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 5 C A ME R ABEST AMERICAN RESTAURANTThe Kitchen1039 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.544.5973, www.thekitchencafe.comClassic American cooking has always been about its connection to the land. TheKitchens farm-to-table menu uses locally produced seasonal ingredients, simplybut skillfully prepared and served to appreciative diners who are gathered aroundthe community tables for lunch, dinner or the popular weekend brunch. Eventhe tables themselves are notable, many crafted locally by hand from 100-year-oldreclaimed wood. The Kitchen is a place of connection, from the people whoproduce the food to the people who prepare it, to the people who enjoy it in ourrestaurant, says Sara Brito, director of community. Founder chefs Hugo Mathesonand Kimbal Musk, with design director Jen Lewin, have created a casual butelegant ambiance that invites you to relax and enjoy the excellent food, wines andcompany. All our wines are organic or sustainably produced, and weve workedhard to create a wine list that aligns with our food and values, Brito explains. Andwhen it comes to values, The Kitchen walks the talk: Monday nights feature a four-course family style dinner with 20 percent of the profits going to help plant gardensin local elementary schools.Murphys2731 iris Ave, Boulder, 303.449.4473657 S. Broadway, Boulder, 303.494.7626www.murphysboulder.comBEST DELISalvaggios Italian Deli2609 Pearl St, Boulder, 303.938.1981, 1397 Pearl St, Boulder, 303.545.68001107 13th St, Boulder, 303.448.1200Need a Philly fix? How about a grilled Steak sandwich? To build the perfect delisandwich, Salvaggios starts with fresh bread, baked from scratch every day. Thenthey add a bounty of meat (Genoa salami, turkey, ham, roast beef, mortadella,pepperoni, steak or pastrami) and your choice of cheeses. Top it off withfresh veggies and dressing and get ready for a tasty feast. We make wonderfulsandwiches at Salvaggios, says general manager Maria Gonzalez, with obviouspride. Its amazing how much meat we put on every sandwich. All the sideorders (like the macaroni and potato salads and the crisp coleslaw) are made inhouse every day, too. Salvaggios serves up nearly 100 sandwiches in an averageday, with a great menu to choose from. Top favorites are the juicy Prime Rib(served only at the 2609 Pearl St. location), the Reuben and Italian. Our customerslike the fun, lively atmosphere, but above all, they do love our deli sandwiches,Gonzalez says.Snarfs2128 Pearl Street, Boulder, 303.444.77665340 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder, 303.444.3404645 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont,303.774.1441www.eatsnarfs.com2830 Arapahoe Ave. Boulder(Just east of 28th on Arapahoe)303.440.0288www.urbanmattress.comFree Same Day deliveryThanks for yoursupport Boulder!Thanks to you were able to: Donate 2% of your purchase to charity Provide cleaner mattress alternatives foryou and the environment Recycle your old mattress for free6 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER2011 C A ME R ABEST LATE NIGHT RESTAURANTCosmos Pizza659 30thSt., Boulder, 303.447.3278; 1325 Broadway,Boulder, 303.447.1133; www.cosmospizza.comCosmos Pizzas celebrates its 10thanniversary thisyear. In this decade it has become an essentialresource for Boulderites and legions of collegestudents. You get great service, a high-quality andconsistent product, and you get it on time, saysowner Ryan Shorter. Were always striving to makeit a great experience. Customers can be sure the pizzais the same as it was five years ago; it hasnt changedsince I started. He credits Cosmos success to hardwork, too, and attention to detail; he visits the twoBoulder shops and the Denver shop every day. GeneralManager Kevin Behnke cites great food, atmosphereand reasonable prices. Our pizza slices are huge; wemake 24-inch pizzas. We grate our own cheese, makeour own sauce and cut all the vegetables in the shop.We make our dough every day; its the best in townfor taste and consistency, all hand-tossed. Business isbrisk at Cosmos every night of the week until closingat 2:30 a.m. After the bars shut down at 1:30 a.m.,People go home and get hungry and call us, almostexclusively for pizza slices, says Behnke. And to makethe deal even sweeter, delivery is free every day.(TIE)The Corner Bar2115 13THSt. (In The Hotel Boulderado), Boulder,303.442.4560, www.boulderado.com/thecornerbar.htmlThe Kitchen1039 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.544.5973,www.thekitchencafe.comBEST BURRITOIllegal Petes1447 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.440.3955, 1320 College Ave. (On The Hill), Boulder 303.444.3055, www.illegalpetes.comThis aint your corporate burrito, friends. You can get a burrito anywhere, says general manager Gabe Smith,but here you know you are going to get fresh, local ingredients served by friendly people. All our beef andpork is from Niman Ranch, our avocados are organic and you get a generous serving of everything. Hey,thats how Illegal Petes rolls, and we love it. Whats your favorite? Chicken, Beef, Pork Carnitas, go Vegetarianor go Fish its all good! Just step up and tell the friendly burrito meister what you want on your very ownmasterpiece and its ready in just minutes. Add a cold beer or a tasty concoction from the full bar. Werelocally, independently owned, Smith says, we dress how we like, play good music, keep the line movingquickly and work hard to make everybody happy. Up early? Rise and dine with a breakfast burrito brimmingwith eggs, potatoes and cheese and all the fixins. Enjoy two convenient locations, on The Hill or on the PearlStreet Mall. Roll on buddy, roll on.Chipotle1650 28th St., Boulder, 720.406.0500; 919 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.544.9383375 S. McCaslin Blvd., Unit D, Louisville, 720.890.0670; 1100 Ken Pratt Blvd., Unit B, Longmont, 303.651.6763www.chipotle.comBEST CATERERA Spice of Life5541 Central Ave., Boulder, 303.443.4049, 5706 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.444.3452, www.aspiceoflife.comWhether you are planning an intimate get-together or hosting a full-out flash mob, the dedicated people atA Spice of Life are sure to make your party a success. Theyve been doing it since 1987 and nobody does itbetter. We dont just put together menus, we craft memorable events, from farm-to-table dinners or planningthe tents and lighting for 500 people, says Laurel Toney, sales assistant. A Spice of Lifes personalizedapproach lets you take your ideas and personal tastes and turn them into the event extraordinaire that yourguests deserve. We take great pride in making everyone who attends feel like a VIP, Toney says. With a crewof up to 120 caterers at the ready, A Spice of Life can manage even the largest event with style and grace.We appreciate their commitment as a Zero Waste community partner and their support of many worthyorganizations throughout Boulder County. We enjoy the wide variety of events we have the pleasure ofcatering and look forward to serving you soon, Toney says.The Rib House1920 South Coffman Street, Longmont, 303.485.6988, 1801 13th Street, Boulder, 303.442.RIBS, www.theribhouse.comTHANK YOUBoulder County for yourcontinued trust & supportfor a decade!$33 OFFany repairMay not be combined with any additional offersExpires 9/31/11303-442-0154www.precisionplumbing.comSEPTEMBER2011 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 7 C A ME R ABEST TAKEOUT FOODNoodles & Co.1600 28th St., Boulder, 303.546.9000; 2602 Baseline Road, Boulder, 720.304.20441245 Alpine Ave., Boulder, 303. 440.4340; 1100 W. Dillon Road, Louisville, 303.665.6226635A Flatiron Marketplace Drive, Broomfield, 720.887.57001100 Hwy 287 at Miramonte, Broomfield, 303.404.34001087 S. Hover St., Longmont, 303.776.56644530 W. 121st Ave., Broomfield, 303.460.70442255 N. Main St., Longmont (coming December 2011)www.noodles.comNoodles is about fresh food fast. Were successful, says Mandy Melby, Noodlescommunications manager, because we use fresh ingredients locally sourcedwhen possible and we customize our recipes so people can have what they wantto eat. We offer the tastes of the world; call it global flavors down the street. Ourrecipes are developed with authentic cuisines in mind. You can take our food togo and know it will be fresh. Theres an iPhone app for ordering takeout fromNoodles and you can order online through the website, www.noodles.com. Thishas been crucial so folks can jump the line. Favorite takeout dishes are penne rosa,Wisconsin mac & cheese and Japanese pan noodles. You can order square bowlmeals to go containers big enough to feed a family. Sandwiches are popular,too, especially the chicken Mediterranean. The focus is fresh, fast and friendlyenvironment with globally inspired foods. Yum.Khow Thai Caf1600 Broadway St., Boulder, 303.447.0273, www.khow-thai.comBEST TAP HOUSEAvery Brewing Company5763 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder, 303.440.4324, www.averybrewing.comWe want people to feel theyre coming into our living room, says Phil Vaughn,manager of Avery Brewing Tap Room. We want them to be well accommodated,with great service by a staff educated about the brewing process. The fact thatour bartender is in love with the product makes for a better experience. Theatmosphere is warm and inviting, with copper paneling and an old-fashioned tavern-like feeling. Favorites are the one-off beers not found elsewhere. We have a seriesof beers that come out over the year. We release them once until theyre gone. Thenumber one seller is India pale ale, which focuses on hops; we add more hops andget more aroma. Another favorite is the Out of Sight, a coffee-flavored beer; theUnseen Bean in Boulder brews a coffee for us and we use it to infuse our beer.Tappings take place every Friday. Its all about educating the customers. Werechanging the perception of beer. Were opening peoples eyes to new things.Mountain Sun Pub and Brewery1535 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.546.0886, www.mountainsunpub.comBEST BARSundown Saloon1136 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.449.4987First off, the Sundown Saloon is an unpretentious, unrepentant bar, not a cocktaillounge, OK? So expect great deals on the PBR and rotating drink specials, a friendlyround of darts or shuffleboard, free pool in the daytime and a rockin juke box thatplays some killer old school tunes. It doesnt have to be complicated to be fun oreven to win the Best Bar award. Happy hours can get pretty crowded, especiallywhen CU is in session. Did we mention its in a basement? Frommers Review (yes,that Frommers) calls the Sundown Saloon a raucous dive and a CU institutionwhich seems about right since its been here, like forever. If you consider yourselfa true local, you gotta do the Downer at least once. And if you are a true local,we bet you already have.Dark Horse Bar & Grill2922 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.442.8162, www.darkhorsebar.comWere proud to beBest of Boulder.Lee A. Woods, DVMand staff303.499.55051405 S. Broadway, Boulderwww.broadwayanimal.comSurgery + Laser Technology + Dental Care + BoardingDigital Radiology + Doggie Daycare + GroomingMention this ad toreceive 20% OFF allyour cats medicalservices in October!8 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER2011 C A ME R ABEST BREAKFAST:Luciles Creole Cafe2124 14th St., Boulder, 303.442.4743; 518 Kimbark St., Longmont, 303.774.9814, www.luciles.comSometimes theres just nothing like some good ole Creole. You cant eat it every day, but thats what makes thehighly indulgent breakfast at Luciles that much more special. With a long history, since 1980, in downtown Bouldersdelightfully cozy yellow Victorian, Luciles famed Chef Mickey continues to hand-make impossibly fluffy yet crunchybuttermilk biscuits, decadent pain perdue (New Orleans-style French toast), authentic beignets, grits, red beans and aboutevery Cajun-inspired egg dish known to man. We emphasize fresh ingredients and quality, says general manager ShinChang. We dont do leftovers and theres nothing out of a bag. Luciles is a place to eat, certainly, but also to enjoya cup of Southern Louisiana chicory coffee, fresh-squeezed orange juice, caf au lait or homemade hot chocolate withfriends at the eaterys community tables. With its energetic vibe, knowledgeable staff and celebration-worthy dishes,Luciles is like a little Creole party every morning.The Buff Restaurant1725 28th St., Boulder, 303.442.9150, www.buffrestaurant.comBEST BRUNCH:Brasserie Ten Ten1011 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.998.1010www.brasserietenten.comWhile this French-inspired eatery startedserving up yummy meals in 2003, itsBrasserie Ten Tens decadent weekendbrunch that has really caught on. Thanksto executive chef Anthony Hessels (whoalso heads The Med) immersion in Frenchculture and cooking overseas, the restaurantmaintains a lively social scene that feels likea true brasserie. Its a place to have fun,eat well, enjoy your friends and relax witha glass of French wine or Belgian beer,says spokesperson Peggy Romano. Theatmosphere is only trumped by the widevariety of scrumptious late-morning edibles.Favorite entrees for sweet and savorytaste buds include fresh fruit bellinis, eggsBenedict, and the pan-roasted chicken andwaffle with herb and peach syrup (backby popular demand). Salads, soups, steakfrites and crepes also crowd the menu.New items include a country scramble andscrambled eggs with Long Family Farmpork belly and local farm-fresh vegetables.The menu changes seasonally but the solidservice, thankfully, does not.Luciles Creole Cafe2124 14th St., Boulder, 303.442.4743;518 Kimbark St., Longmont, 303.774.9814,www.luciles.comYMCA OF BOULDER VALLEYOne Membership. Two Locations.Mapleton Center Y2850 Mapleton Ave., Boulder303.442.2778Arapahoe Center Y2800 Dagny Way, Lafayette303.664.5455ymcabv.orgTHANKSFORVOTINGFORUS!SEPTEMBER2011 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 9 C A ME R ABEST LAFAYETTE/LOUISVILLE/SUPERIOR/ERIERESTAURANT:The Empire Lounge Restaurant816 Main St., Louisville, 303.665.2521, www.theempirerestaurant.comIts like that place where everyone knows your name: friendly and comfy yetincredibly fresh and inspired at the same time. In addition to Julia Child namingowner/chef Jim Cohen one of eleven best chefs in America, Empire Lounge andRestaurant boasts another accolade: a Zagat rating as one of the top 10 restaurantsin Colorado. But these lofty accomplishments have yet to change this always-welcoming establishment, where regulars come together for consistently good,locally sourced and reasonably priced grill-based foods. Our key to success hasbeen to offer amazing food at a very approachable price, says general managerLexi Cohen. To extend its community reach beyond neighborhood diners, Empirehas trimmed down its regular menu to add a fresh farm menu, featuring thebest produce from area farms that week. But dont worry, the savory burgers, coalminers mac and cheese and Chef Connies famed rustic apple tart with vanilla icecream are still around. So tell all your friends: A newly refurbished back room isready for parties of up to 50.The Huckleberry700 Main St., Louisville, 303.666.8020, www.thehuckleberry.comBEST LONGMONT/LYONS RESTAURANT:Oskar Blues Brewery303 Main St., Lyons, 303.823.6685; 1555 S. Hover Rd., Longmont, 303.485.9400www.oskarblues.comIn a small-batch brewery that birthed the award-winning, hand-canned, hoppy-nosed Dales Pale Ale, everything else is supposed be a sideshow, right? Wrong.At Oskar Blues, the Cajun-infused provisions, house-smoked North Carolina BBQand remarkable lineup of live music shows makes the beer seem like relish on amuffaleta. Two locations give both Lyons and Longmont an intimate hometowncraft beer bar where neighbors and friends can connect over liquid, solids andairwaves. So whether you come for the local and national blues, rock, bluegrass,jam bands, folk, Americana or trad-country acts, some Southern-style comfort food,or your favorite craft pour straight from the tap, each visit is an eclectic experiencefound only at Oskar Blues.Sugarbeet Eclectic American Cuisine101 Pratt Street, Longmont, 303.651.3330, www.sugarbeetrestaurant.comBEST GUNBARREL/NIWOT RESTAURANTColterra210 Franklin St., Niwot, 303.652.0777, www.colterra.comThe cuisine at Colterra is inspired by the flavors of Southern France and NorthernItaly. Owner/Executive Chef Bradford Heap received classic European training fromculinary legends like Alain Ducasse, Georges Blanc and Carlo Cioni. He has servedas guest chef at the prestigious James Beard House and had successful stints at FullMoon Grill and Chautauqua Dining Hall. Heaps love of French and Italian cookingand desire to work intimately with local farmers, ranchers and purveyors is at theroot of his vision. He strives to use seasonal, fresh, local ingredients to produceoriginal flavors in each and every dish. The organic gardens at Colterra allow himto grow some of his own produce and herbs. Heaps ability to create simple cleanflavors from ultra-fresh local produce has earned him a loyal following. He invitesguests to try a variety of tastes and sip various wines by the glass from a substantialwine list.Treppedas Italian Ristorante300 2nd Avenue Niwot, 303.652.1606, www.treppedas.comBEST RESTAURANT TO BRING KIDS:Red Robin Gourmet Burgers2580 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.442.0320; 2331 Clover Basin Drive, Longmont,720.652.9229, www.redrobin.comTheres some special ingredients that go in to making a restaurant deliciouslykid-friendly. And for a couple of decades now, Red Robin Gourmet Burgers hasnailed it. Its about toddler-approved bottomless spaghetti and parent-approvedgrilled chick-on-a-stick. Its great milkshakes, Freckled Lemonade (strawberrylemonade), apple pie bites and messy mud pie, plus some seriously tasty burgersfor which adults always seem to find an excuse to bring the family back. But moreimportantly, says Eric Frey, general manager at the Boulder location, We connectwith the family and their children. We go out of our way. We talk directly to thekids. Here kids are free to order for themselves, even if it takes awhile; bring 30friends to celebrate a birthday in style; and jump around with a balloon in one handand chicken fingers in the other. Its just that kind of place.(TIE)Noodles & Company1600 28th Street, Boulder, 303.546.9000; 2602 Baseline Road, Boulder, 720.304.20441245 Alpine, Boulder, 303.440.4340, www.noodles.comSouthern Sun Pub and Brewery627 S. Broadway St., Boulder, 303.543.0886, www.mountainsunpub.com10 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER2011 C A ME R ASEPTEMBER2011 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 11 C A ME R A303.776.33442101 Ken Pratt Blvd.Longmont, CO 80501303.443.22404875 Pearl East Cir.Boulder, CO 80301Thank you for more than a decade of Boulder County Gold awards.Were very proud to have been honored with Boulder County Gold awards for the past 11 years in a row!WKRE.comA+ RatingLEARN MORE AT VERLO.COM800.224.8375Stopinandseeustoday!Boulder 3080 Valmont Road Boulder, CO 80301 303-447-1154Longmont 715 S. Main St. Longmont, CO 80501 303-651-9024twitter.com/verlostores youtube.com/verlomattressfacebook.com/verlomattress1312 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER2011 C A ME R ABEST PLACE FOR TEAThe Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse1770 13th St., Boulder, 303.442.4993, www.boulderteahouse.comThe Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse has become a cultural icon. This piece of art andgathering place was created as a gift from the mayor of Dushanbe, Boulders sistercity in Tajikistan. Over three years, more than 40 artisans from Tajikistan hand-crafted ceiling, tables, stools, columns and exterior ceramic panels to reassemble inBoulder and showcase the countrys wood-carving and painting skills handed downthrough the generations. Today the teahouse is a quiet community presence whereBoulderites enjoy one of the worlds oldest ritualstea time. The menu featuresover 100 premium loose-leaf teas, including interesting international imports andblends. There are food options for all meals, as well as brunch, appetizer anddessert items for the in-between times. A traditional afternoon tea is served from 3to 5 p.m. at English-style white linen tables, along with a pot of tea and a tower ofpastries, cucumber sandwiches and sweet cakes. Theres even a special childrensafternoon tea, perfect for birthday parties.Pekoe Sip House225 Alpine Ave., Boulder, 303.444.5953; 2500 30th Street, Boulder, 303.444.42071125 18th Street, Boulder; www.pekoesiphouse.comBEST COFFEEHOUSEVics2680 Broadway, Boulder, 303.440.8209; 3305 30th St., Boulder, 303.440.29184770 Table Mesa, Boulder, 303.494.1884; 700 Tenacity, Suite 101, Prospect New Town,Longmont, 303.485.6791; 600 S. Airport Rd., Longmont, 303.834.8447,www.vicsespresso.comAt Vics, first and foremost its about the coffee. Good coffee, dark roasted andserved pretty much anyway you want it: solo, doppio or with a splash of steamedalmond milk. If you can order it, they can make it. The baristas are friendly in a non-corporate way and keep things moving. Locally-baked scones, pastries and muffinsgo great with your espresso, or tuck into one of MAMEs tasty breakfast burritoswhile the free wi-fi keeps you plugged in and productive. The Vics ambiancesomehow manages to be both busy and laid-back at the same time. Meet a friendat a table out front, or chill inside with the laptop crew and work on your greatAmerican novel (or spreadsheet whatevah). As a perennial winner of the BoulderCounty Gold award, Vics success is all about good product, good service, goodcustomers and a good staff. Good enough to be the best, we say.Ozo Coffee5340 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder, 303.440.0233; 1015 Pearl Street, Boulder, 303.645.4885www.ozocoffee.comMexican Restaurant & Cantina101 East Cleveland, Lafayette, CO 80026 | 303.666.7544~Take out available~THANK YOU!For Your Support!We Appreciate Your Business!SSSSSSSSSSSSeeeeeeeeooorrrGGGGoooommmmmmeeezzzzRRRRRRRRRReeeessstttaaauuuurrraaannnntttBreakfast and Lunch4 Blocks From Efrains502 S. Public Rd, Lafayette, CONOW OPEN!SEPTEMBER2011 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 13 C A ME R ABEST ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURTGlacier HomeMade Ice Cream& Gelato3133 28th St.,Boulder, 303.440.6542;4760 Baseline Road,Boulder, 303.499.4760;1387 South Boulder Road, Louisville,720.890.5992; 1749 Main St.,Longmont, 303.485.8834;www.glacierhomemadeicecream.comThis year Glacier celebrates its10thanniversary in business,and what a ride its been. Newstores have opened includingone in Northglenn and three inChina! The wholesale business torestaurants in Boulder and Denver has blossomed. Gelato is faring well; owner Mark Mallens son manned the cart onthe Pearl Street Mall this summer. Glacier is doing a lot of ice-cream catering: We set up sundae bars in Boulder andDenver, says Mallen, and we have a 2,000-person event coming up. Its ice cream factory tours are also popular; withmore than 1,000 taking place so far this year. (At the end of the tour, you get to eat fresh ice cream with your choice oftoppings.) A top seasonal seller is fresh Colorado peach ice cream, about which owner Mark Mallen says, Well processover 1,000 pounds of peaches a year from the Western Slope to make ice cream, gelato and sorbet. Glaciers ice creammakers experiment a lot, and come up with such popular flavors as triple berry sorbet and vanilla raspberry truffle. Itsnot just about eating ice cream, Mallen says. We try to create a fun atmosphere for people and families. We employgreat people the ice cream makers and the counter people. Were very grateful to the Boulder community. Theyrecognize quality products and have given us great support. It inspires us to do new things.Ripple Pure Frozen Yogurt1682 30thSt., Boulder, 303.444.0690, www.rippleyogurt.comBEST DESSERTThe CheesecakeFactory1401 Pearl Street, Boulder, 303.546.0222,www.thecheesecakefactory.comAt The Cheesecake Factory, its not justabout graham cracker crusts, cheese-sweetfilling and sour cream topping. Offeringa huge variety of sweets and treats keepsthis Pearl Street establishment always freshwhen it comes to dessert. Under low lights,in comfy booths and with a little moodmusic locals can be alone with decadencein many popular forms, according tomanager Alice Smith Godiva ChocolateBrownie Sundae, a refreshing Bowl of FreshStrawberries and cheesecake flavors rangingfrom Reeses Peanut Butter to Red Velvetto Dulce de Leche Carmel. But thats justfor starters, or an ending. The CheesecakeFactory also does small plates, entrees, askinny menu (with everything under590 calories), specialty liqueur drinks,kids classics, 12 new milkshakes, coffeeconcoctions, fruit smoothies and so muchmore. Here there really is something to thatsaying theres something for everyone.The Kitchen1039 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.544.5973,www.thekitchencafe.comThank You Boulder for All of Your Support!- Induldge in the Best Margaritas & Mexican Food in Boulder! -www.agavecolorado.com2845 28th Street Boulder, Co 303-444-2922Valmont Rd.8thStreet28 0thStreet30014 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER2011 C A ME R ABEST BAKERYBreadworks2644 Broadway, Boulder, 303.444.5667, www.breadworks.netA lot of locals got acquainted with the Breadworks over a bowl of one of theirfamous soups or a tasty Panini, just two choices on the menu that is created eachday by Colleen Doran, a classically trained executive chef. But those diners surenotice the bread their lunch is served with, too. We started with the bread, saysowner Larry Dimnitz, who opened the Breadworks on Valentines Day, 1995. Westill use 100-percent organic flour, hand-shape each loaf and bake it in the stonehearth oven like we have for 17 years. A lot of the 40 to 50 different types ofbread are seasonal favorites, like the Roasted Squash Bread with butternut squash,cranberries and currants. Besides selling their artisan baguettes, ficelles and Bavarianpretzels and more to customers in the store, Breadworks also supplies their breadand baked goods to many local restaurants and grocery stores across BoulderCounty. The kitchen runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to get it done. We figuredit up recently; weve mixed over 13 million pounds of bread since we opened,Domnitz laughs.Spruce Confections4684 Broadway, Boulder, 303.449.5819767 Pearl Street, Boulder, 303.449.6773www.spruceconfections.comBEST HAPPY HOUR AND BEST OUTDOOR DININGAND BEST APPETIZERSMediterranean Restaurant (The Med)1002 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.444.5335, www.themedboulder.comWant a perfect way to reward yourself at the end of a hard day? Get over to happyhour at The Med, where theres a bounty of tasty tapas, mouthwatering pizzasand refreshing cool drinks guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Seven days aweek from 3 to 6:30 pm, The Meds happy hour menu tempts us with small-plateselections from the culinary traditions of the sunny Mediterranean. Order severaland pass them around youre bound to discover a new favorite you haventtried yet. We keep our prices at real happy prices, says Peg Romano, who openedThe Med over 17 years ago. Its a great deal, and were not going to change theformula; its working great. We even make our own fresh mozzarella cheese. Startwith Bruschetta, some Fried Artichoke Hearts and perhaps some Polenta with redpepper coulis and a nice glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay. The Margarita pizza,bubbly hot from the wood-fired oven with its golden crust, is divine simplicity(they serve up to 200 of them on a weekend night), perfect with a draft beer orglass of Chianti. Or get fancy with Cabbage leaves stuffed with cous-cous, peppers,olives and pine nut salad a crunchy mlange of flavor that will have you orderingseconds. Theres no better place to enjoy your happy hour, lunch or dinner thanthe fabulous courtyard patio, just a few steps from the hustle-bustle of downtown.With its colorful geraniums, market umbrellas, hand painted tiles and a fountain,youll feel like youve been transported to a private garden retreat in Italy. Its nosurprise that The Med is a veteran winner of the Best Outdoor Dining award. Weguarantee youll long to linger just a little longer.Best Happy Hour (TIE):Boulder Cafe1247 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.4884, www.bouldercafeonpearl.comThe Boulder Chophouse921 Walnut Street Boulder, 303.443.1188, www.chophouse.comBest Outdoor Dining:Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant1101 Walnut Street,Boulder, 303.444.3690, www.riograndemexican.comBest Appetizers:Brasserie Ten Ten1011 Walnut Street. Boulder. 303.998.1010, www.brasserietenten.comBOULDER4800 Baseline Rd. Ste. E108 303-499-3900LONGMONT1515 N Main St. Ste. 15 303-776-8748Thank you Boulder Countyfor all of your votes!(Left to right) Dr. Edith Burns - Doctor of Audiology,Joyce Funkenbusch - Patient Care Coordinator,Kimberly Deffenbaugh Board- Audiology Associate,and Dr. Whitney Swander - Owner, Doctor of Audiologywww.rockymtndaycamp.com303-495-5204 Superior, COLocations in Boulder AND SuperiorWe buildconfident, happy,well roundedchildren.Boys & Girls 4.5 14welcome!Registrationfor 2012 beginsNovember 2011SEPTEMBER2011 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 15 C A ME R ABEST PIZZAPizzeria da Lupo2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.396.6366, www.pizzeriadalupo.comWith all the pizza parlors in Boulder, what makes thisone stand out? Jim Cohen, chef and partner in Pizzeriada Lupo, has convincing answers. We use a wood-burning oven, slow-rising dough made with Caputoflour from Naples, great olive oil and San Marzanotomatoes a cut above what most pizzerias use. Mybackground in high-end restaurants differentiates usfrom others. We use very fine ingredients. But, hepoints out, We are not pretentious, our wine list isnot high-priced. We are very old world. Cohen firstgot interested in pizza at the Phoenician Hotel in 1996.I started working on the dough; slow fermenteddough develops a lot of flavor. Ours ferments for threedays at 40 degrees. Other pizzerias tend to makethe dough in the morning and use it the same day.Reviewers give raves to the crust; one describes it as crispy, wood-fired, golden, flaky, with just-enough-salt-that-is-not-too-soft-or-doughy. Cohen and partner Ken Wolf also own Empire Lounge and Restaurant in Louisville.(Tie)Abos Pizza2761 Iris Ave., Boulder, 303.443.1921; 1110 13thSt., Boulder, 303.443.3199 637 S. Broadway St., Boulder, 303.494.1274720 Austin Ave., Erie, 303.828.9777, 1834 Main St., Longmont, 303.678.0111, 1355 South Boulder Road, Louisville, 303.604.98967960 Niwot Road, Niwot, 303.652.0830, 502 Center Drive, Superior, 720.304.6000,799 US Hwy 287, Unit D, Broomfield, 303.438.8383; www.abospizza.comCosmos Pizza659 30thSt., Boulder, 303.447.3278 , 1325 Broadway St., #108, Boulder,303.447.1133, www.cosmospizza.comBEST THEATER PERFORMANCEBoulders Dinner Theatre5501 Arapahoe Avenue. Boulder, 303.449.6000,www.bouldersdinnertheatre.comSlow Dance With A Hot Pickup, Phantom, TheDrowsy Chaperone. What a great lineup of shows and theyre playing in Boulder this season. Since1977, Boulder's Dinner Theatre has delightedaudiences with live, Broadway-quality entertainmentand fine dining with a twist: The actors serve thefood. We do good theatre, says Artistic DirectorMichael Duran. Im very proud of our talented castand the set design, costumes, lighting design, andlive orchestra. And Im proud that our actors alsowait tables, so the audience sees them up close andpersonal. Some great relationships develop betweenaudience members and cast members. Some peoplehave been coming here since we opened. Others arehere for the first time. As to the food, we try to varythe menu, make the food taste good and look good,within the limited capacity of our kitchen. We keepit varied because people come here more than once.We hope to keep entertaining in the Boulder area formany more years. Members of the company haveperformed all over the country, from New York andChicago to Hollywood. They've been cast in sitcomsand feature films. Some have been nominated forAcademy Awards. Some are just starting out. But theyall call Boulder's Dinner Theatre "home."The Colorado Shakespeare FestivalN. Broadway St. & Euclid Ave., Boulder, 303.492.0554,www.coloradoshakes.orgThank you for your loyalty, confidence, and friendship!Celebrating31Years!WaterStreet2425 CanyonBoulder, CO303-449-2626PEOPLES CHOICEWALTERSANDHOGSETT. COM BOULDERGETSENGAGED. COM16 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER2011 C A ME R ABEST INDIAN RESTAURANTTandoori Grill619 S. Broadway St., Boulder, 303.543.7339, www.tandoorigrillboulder.comFor those who savor the tastes and aromas of Indian cuisine, Tandoori Grill hasbeen a Boulder destination for 13 years. Gurjeet Dhanoa, owner of Tandoori Grillwith her husband, Paul, says, Were successful because we serve good food. Paulis the head chef, and hes a really good cook; he was trained by his mom. Ourfood is very consistent. Our other two chefs have been with us for six years andeight years. We dont change the way we prepare things. Our foods are typicallyPunjabi, from the Punjab region in northwest India. She describes the cuisine asfusion: steaks, salmon, duck and mahi mahi are prepared using Indian spices andcooking methods. Steak and corn, for example, are cooked in the tandoori oven. Inpreparing coconut shrimp, the chefs substitute chickpea flour for regular Americanflour. We get more and more busy every year. The most popular dishes arechicken tikka masala, chili tandoori chicken, and bengan bartha (roasted eggplant).When my husband does a special dish, if it hits well, we put it on the menu.The Taj2630 Baseline Rd., Boulder, 303.494.5216, www.tajcolorado.comBEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANTLeaf Vegetarian Restaurant2010 16thSt., Boulder, 303.442.1485, www.leafvegetarianrestaurant.comWere one of a kind, says Gerald Manning, managing partner of Leaf. In Bouldertheres not another concept of a full-scale vegetarian restaurant serving worldcuisine. The room is a beautiful, tranquil setting. The chefs have done a great jobwith the menu. We hold ourselves to a particular standard of quality and we stayahead of the curve of what vegetarians are looking for in their food and drink.All the wines served at Leaf are biodynamically or organically grown. Werefocusing our wine list on domestic products to limit the carbon footprint, includingColorado growers like Jack Rabbit Hill and Two Rivers. A new addition to the Leafenterprise is Three Leaf Farm, almost two acres of land at US Highway 287 andSouth Public Road acquired in February. In its first season, it has produced a bountyof greens, veggies, fruits and herbs.Mad Greens1805 29thSt., Boulder, 720.496.4157, www.madgreens.comBEST MEXICAN RESTAURANTEfrains Mexican101 E. Cleveland St., Lafayette, 303.666.7544Efrains II: 1630 N. 63rdSt., Boulder, 303.440.4045Efrains III: 451 S. Pratt Pkwy., Longmont, 720.494.0777Senor Gomez: 502 S. Public Road, Lafayette, 303.604.6322For authentic Mexican food, speed past the fast-food chains and settle in at Efrains,a Lafayette institution for more than two decades. This is the mother ship forthree restaurants serving home-cooked favorites from the Gomez familys trove oftraditional recipes. Im happy with the menu right now and the customers are,too, says owner George Gomez. Chicken chimichanga is the most popular dish,with chicken and beef fajitas and chile verde is not far behind. We sell a lot ofmargaritas and we have the best prices. The tequila company we buy from sayswe buy a lot of tequila. Recently, another Efrains restaurant opened in Lafayette,just four blocks away, named Senor Gomez. We serve breakfast and lunch therenow. The food is different from our other restaurants and were still working on themenu. In the future, well open for dinner, too.Agave Mexico Bistro & Tequila House2845 28thSt., 303.444.2922, www.agavecolorado.comBEST ALL YOU CAN EAT AND BEST ASIANRESTAURANT AND BEST SUSHIJapango1136 Pearl St. # 110, Boulder, 303.938.0330, www.boulderjapango.comIt seems like you can find sushi just about anywhere these days, from the deli aisleat your grocery store to food trucks that deliver it to your office. A lot of it is goodenough but theres only one place to get the best, and thats at Japango yourpremier destination for authentic sushi. Fresh fish is flown in daily and turnedinto tempting tidbits of Nigiri, Temaki, Sashimi and custom rolls by skillful sushimasters. Our master chef was trained in traditional sushi making in Japan andhas been doing this for 42 years, says owner Jon Banis. Thats just one exampleof how committed we are to bringing you the best and freshest sushi we can.Japangos stylish, hip ambiance complements the visual delights on your plate,and the staff is friendly and energetic. Sit at the sushi bar and meet a new friend asyou watch the sushi crew work their magic, or grab a table and enjoy exploringthe generous menu choices. Youll also find other traditional and Asian-inspireddishes, like Lobster Potstickers, Spicy Calamari or the Hawaiian Tuna Steak withwasabi sauce and vegetables. We strive to maintain an authenticity to Japanesecuisine, Banis explains, from the ingredients and recipes to the way each dish iscomposed on the plate. Tuesday is All-You-Can-Eat Sushi Night, a favorite event sopopular that people write it on their calendars. From 5 to 10 p.m., order just aboutanything you want from the sushi or dinner menu and dont stop till youve hadenough. Weve done this since we opened almost 12 years ago, Banis says, andwe have a packed house all night long. Its crazy, but great.Best All You Can Eat: (Tie)Country Buffet1250 S Hover St, Bldg 1 Suite 11. Longmont, 303.684.0208, www.countrybuffet.comThe Taj2630 Baseline Rd., Boulder, 303.494.5216, www.tajboulder.comBest Asian Restaurant: Chez Thuy2655 28th Street, Boulder, 303.442.1700, www.chezthuy.comBest Sushi: (TIE)Hapa Sushi2655 28th Street, Boulder, 303.442.1700, www.chezthuy.comSushi Zanmai1221 Spruce Street, Boulder, 303.440.0733, www.sushizanmai.comSEPTEMBER2011 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 17 C A ME R ABEST PLACE TO HEAR LIVE MUSIC:Boulder Theater2032 14th St., Boulder, 303.786.7030, www.bouldertheater.comTheres a fine balance between holding on to a rich history and pushing forwardto appeal to modern tastes. The crew at the Boulder Theater seem to have foundjust the right mix. First opened in 1906 with a lineup of silent movies, operas andmusicals, this century-old theater has a certain lived-in vibe that is impossible toreplicate in Boulder. However, while the art deco style, murals and fresco ceilingcreate a cool atmosphere, an aging balcony seating and older sound system doesnot a spectator-friendly joint make. So in July the Boulder Theater replaced theupper deck with comfy new seats and added a state-of-the-art sound system.Change is goodin more ways than one. Just off a merger with Boulders FoxTheatre, talent buyer Kirk Peterson says the Boulder Theater lineup of showsmusic, comedy, benefits and moreare better than ever. Two solo shows with JeffTweedy kicked off this year. Its nice to be able to focus on putting on the rightshow in the right room in Boulder instead of constantly competing, he says. Withtwo complementary venues, We can schedule like-minded shows on differentnights and its helped us stabilize ticket prices. As for variety, Boulder Theaterbooked the Disco Biscuits, The Decemberists, Medeski, Martin & Wood, Ice Cube,Iron and Wine and an African acoustic show this year. B.B. King just played asold-out show, and the theater kicked off its first-annual Boulder Roots and BluesSummit Festival (with Cheryl Crow and Lucinda Williams, among others). Stand-uphas ranged from Seth Meyers to Canadian act the Trailer Park Boys. Leveraging itsstoried past with a bright outlook for the future, this multi-faceted venue has onlyjust begun.The Fox Theatre1135 13th St., Boulder, 303.443.3399, www.foxtheatre.comBEST BOULDER COUNTY EVENT:Boulder Creek FestivalDowntown Boulder along Boulder Creek, 303.449.3137, bceproductions.comIts hard to believe Boulders rite of summer, the Boulder Creek Festival, has beenaround for 25 years. Maybe its been so successful because organizers listen to whatcitizens say they like and dislikeand tweak the creek scene it to perfection eachyear. With 10 event areas, five stages and nearly 500 vendors, youll need morethan one day to experience all the food, art, performances, informational booths,family activities, and the Great Rubber Duck Race (benefiting the Boulder Parks andRecreation EXPAND Program). Recently the festival has focused on becoming a zerowaste event, says Meg Denbow, Director of Communications for BCE Productions.BCE has managed to reduce the landfill waste at the Boulder Creek Festival byclose to 40% in the past two years. Hundreds of volunteers are the events unsungheroes. Generations of families have grown up volunteering together and they area pivotal part of the significance and success of BCEs management of the festival,she says.Bolder Boulder5500 Central Ave., Suite 110, Boulder, 303.444.RACE, www.bolderboulder.com18 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER2011 C A ME R AServices, Faces and PlacesBEST PLACE TO WORK OUT AND BEST PILATES/YOGACENTER AND BEST PLACE FOR PERSONAL TRAININGRally Sport Health & Fitness ClubA winner in three categories this year, RallySport is proving it has something for everybody.While the facility has earned its reputation over 30 years, it never rests on its laurels. Each year,RallySport upgrades with new equipment, evolved fitness classes, exceptional trainers and thekind of general maintenance that keeps customers happy and healthy. Just coming off a massiverenovation, everything at RallySport feels fresh and new, says director Erin Carson. We haveconsistently invested in the most cutting-edge equipment. This year we are featuring 40 newbicycles, fully equipped with power meters, in our group cycling area. But technology is onlyone aspect of the facilitys success. Taking care of its people is even more important. RallySportis truly a community, says Carson. We take interest in our members lives and want to besure that they are getting what they had hoped for from their health club. Two ways Rallyaccomplishes just that is with over 30 top-notch personal trainers and life-balancing classeslike yoga and Pilates. Trainers are encouraged to continue their education and focus on results-oriented functional training and sport-specific workouts as well as crucial muscle developmentand strength. Group classes are equally effective, featuring instructors who take their practicesvery seriously and many parent participants who can truly focus while their kids are nurtured atRallySports amazing well-organized childcare facility.Best Place to Work Out: YMCA of Boulder Valley2850 Mapleton Ave., Boulder, 303.442.2778, 2800 Dagny Way, Lafayette, 303.664.5455, www.ymcabv.orgBest Pilates/Yoga Center: Yoga Pod1750 29th St., #2020, Boulder, 303.444.4232, www.theyogapod.comBest Place for Personal Training: Colorado Athletic Club1821 30th St., Boulder, 303.501.1700, www.coloradoathleticclubs.comBouldersPremierEyewearDestinationThank You For YourContinued Support!In the Village at 2525 ArapahoeCall 303.447.0210SEPTEMBER2011 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 19 C A ME R ABEST AC/HEATING SERVICEPrecision Plumbing, Heating,Cooling and Electrical5035 Chaparral Court, Boulder, 303.581.1455, www.precisionplumbing.comPrecision has figured out precisely how to keep Boulder cooland toasty, for thatmatter. In addition to employing highly skilled technicians who understand theintricacies of heating and cooling systems, Precision also staffs licensed techniciansin plumbing and electrical services. The company is committed to staying up onthe highest efficiency heating and cooling equipment in industry to keep customerhomes humming along and economically sound. But true customer loyalty comesfrom Precisions service with a smile. We have a unified belief to simply providethe best service possible, says owner Tom Robichaud. We offer service that isfriendly and professional with a sincere desire to help. In fact Precision, an A+member of the Better Business Bureau for 17 years, feels so strongly about itspeople and services that it offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee.Save Home Heat Company5741 Arapahoe Road, Unit 4, Boulder, 303.443.9762, www.savehomeheat.comBEST AUTO DEALERFlatirons Acura/Subaru/Hyundai5995 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.443.01142555 30th Street, Boulder, 303.442.1114www.flatironsimports.comWith lots of competition in the car-dealing business, Flatirons always seems to riseabove the sea of mediocrity. Perhaps its the family-owned feel at the dealership,passed down from managing partner Scott Crouchs father who opened his firstBoulder dealership nearly 60 years ago. It could also be Flatirons approach toservice. A team of advisors tries to make each car-buying experience personal and,well, downright fun. In addition to a wide variety of Acura and Subaru models plusmeticulously inspected previously owned cars, Flatirons has added the Hyundai lineat a fully renovated 30th Street facility. With the addition of the Hyundai brandto our Subaru and Acura line-up we feel like we have three product lines matchedperfectly for the Boulder market, says Crouch. Subaru continues to dominate theBoulder market and we are looking forward to the all-new Subaru Impreza, whichshould be arriving this fall. In the spring, Acura will debut the re-designed RDXsport utility with a new MPG rating of 30 MPG.Larry H. Miller Toyota Boulder2465 48th Court, Boulder, 1.800.716.1724www.bouldertoyota.com BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP/SERVICE DEPT.Hoshi Motors2504 Spruce St., Boulder, 303.449.6632, www.hoshimotors.netGirls can work on cars too. Since 1984, Hoshi Motors owner Laurie Farmen hasproved that women in auto repair are (or at least this woman is) a force to bereckoned with. She just has a way of understanding her customers needs andgiving them only what their carsin this case the Honda, Acura, Subaru and Toyotabreedsneed with an honesty thats unmatched. Competency, professionalismand personalization are other words commonly associated with Hoshi Motors.Customers can count on consistent service and a caring staff. And at the end of theday, patrons of Hoshi Motors know that the staff doesnt look them in the eye andsee dollar signs, its sees the shining reflection of their over two decades of success.(Tie)Baseline Auto Service5729 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder, 303.442.8717, www.baselineautoservice.comPellmans Automotive Service4560 49th St., Boulder, 303.938.4050, www.pellmansauto.comBEST OIL CHANGEGrease Monkey2405 28th St., Boulder, 303.444. 9303, 2710 Baseline Rd., Boulder, CO, 303.499.98442405 28th St., Boulder, 303.444.9303, 165 McCaslin Blvd., Louisville, 720.214.2840375 Waneka Pkwy., Lafayette, 303.604.2159, 1230 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont, 303.772.88652334 North Main Street, Longmont, 303.485.9206, www.greasemonkeyintl.comGrease Monkey keeps Boulder moving. Offering a full line of fluid maintenanceservices, this family-owned store (28th Street) since 1984 has developed a loyalfollowing at its now seven Boulder County locations. Were really focused oncustomer service and honesty, says general manager and owner Tim Reeves. Westrive to be honest and upfront in everything we do. We follow manufacturer specsto a tee and give customers enough information for them to make an educateddecision. Were not pushy. He says repeat customers come from as far as Aspenfor regular service. Patrons also appreciate the free top-off service: A complimentarycheck and fill of major fluids plus tire pressure check and set between a regularGrease Money full-service oil change. With pricing below the Denver market,Grease Money also staffs a full crew for quick, no-appointment-necessary fluidchanges. Convenience is what we thrive on, says Reeves.Jiffy Lube1788 30th Street, Boulder, 303.447.8040, 1408 Hecla Way, Louisville, 720.890.0777www.jiffylube.com20 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER2011 C A ME R ABEST CAR WASHPuddle Car Wash3100 28th St., Boulder, 303.447.9274, www.puddlecarwash.comBoulderites have entrusted their cars to one special car wash for the last 37 years:Puddle Car Wash. Known as a completely safe, touch-free car wash, Puddle uses nocloth or brushes in the automated wash session. Experts in customer satisfactionwith a consistent product in a friendly atmospherethis Boulder institution offersquick cleaning options for clunkers and high-end vehicles alike. We realize thattime is valuable to people, says Steve Miller, president of Puddle Car Wash. Withthis in mind we provide a full-service car wash in just 12 minutes. Theres a full-service car wash for $10.99 up to a full detail, with plenty in between. Servicesinclude vacuuming and hand drying plus extras like carpet and seat shampooing,vinyl and door panel cleaning and leather upholstery cleaning and conditioning.(TIE)Black Diamond Car Wash1414 Hecla Way, Louisville, 303.666.6696Main Street Car Wash2025 Main Street, Longmont, 303.776.4800BEST CHIROPRACTIC CLINICThe Joint2525 Arapahoe Avenue, Suite C2, Boulder, 303.440.8019, boulder.thejoint.comOnce youre sold on self-healing chiropractic adjustments, its hard to imagine life without alignment. Thats why The Joint, a franchise of facilities offering qualitychiropractic care at an affordable price, is so successful. The Joints Dr. Jay Minn and Dr. Jeremy Casagrande, both of whom studied at the Los Angeles College ofChiropractic and worked in private practice together, have been giving busy Boulderites the balance they need with quick yet high-quality preventative- and maintenance-focused treatments. This walk-in facility doesnt take appointments, and regulars know the best times to come. (Hint: Not Mondays, Fridays or the lunch hour.) A visit costsas little as $24 and a monthly health membership is just $49 when billed on a reoccurring credit card, says office manager Kaitlin Ko. The doctors style is diversified, veryhands on and includes lots of helpful advice to keep up your chiropractic care.Swan Lake Chiropractic Clinic724 Pearl Street, 303.449.3103, www.swanlakechiro.comThank you for your loyal support!For more than 50 years Boulders only independent,accredited, not for prot ContinuingCare Retirement CommunityIndependent Living, Assisted Living,Memory Care and Skilled Nursing350 PONCAPLACE BOULDER, CO 80303RETI REMENT COMMUNI TYCall 303. 499. 4888or visit www.frasiermeadows.org for more informationSEPTEMBER2011 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 21 C A ME R ABEST CARPET CLEANING SERVICENesheim Cleaning Services1212 Commerce Court, Lafayette, 303.666.8888, www.nesheims.comIf you live in anything other than a dirt-floor hut you probably know Boulders Nesheim Cleaning Services. Chances are youvehad your carpet, hardwoods or even tile or grout cleaned by the pros at Neisheims, who have served the community for 30years. Were in the people business. Customers always say they were friendly and professional, oh and by the way, they did agood job on the carpet, says owner Rick Farasyn. I hire the kind of people I would welcome into my home. Its about beingon time, professional and courteous. Nesheims uses hot water extraction, which flushes contaminants out of carpet, as wellas the most environmentally friendly products that also clean, notes Farasyn. In addition to great service and results, Nesheimsloyalty program keeps customers coming back. Clients who refer a friend receive a gift certificate for 10% of the referrals firstjob. Use it for your next cleaning or mail it back in for cash, says Farasyn.Chem-Dry of Boulder3835 Silver Plume Circle, Boulder, 720.304.3910, www.cdcarpetcleaning.comBEST CHILD CARE CENTERTake-A-Break4950 Thunderbird Drive, Boulder, 303.499.2339, www.takeabreakchildren.comServing the community since 1983, Take-a-Break is an established yet innovativechild care facility that has managed to balance the two things parents have toweigh most carefully when selecting a place for their most precious little ones:cost and quality. The day care charges an affordable rate that feels just right in thedown economy while still maintaining the highest standards with well-trained staffand low child/adult ratios. Take-a-Break is a nurturing place where parents canfeel confident about leaving children in good hands. The facilitys philosophy fordeveloping the emotional, social and mental wellbeing of each child is strong yetsimple: One fleeting moment of joy will last a lifetime in the minds and hearts ofour youth. Ours is the challenge to find the good in every child and to nurture itto its fullest potentialto encourage a positive outlook and attitude toward othersand the future.YWCA Childrens Alley2222 14th St., Boulder, 303.449.1951, www.ywcaboulder.orgflorists, greenhouses & fine stationery2851 Valmont 303-442-6663Mon-Fri 8-6, Sat 8-5, Sun 10-5www.sturtzandcopeland.comThank you foryour votes!since 1929Boulders Best Florist,Boulders BestGarden Center,Boulders Best Plant NurseryForallyourflower&gardeningneeds.22 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER2011 C A ME R ABEST COLORADO SKI RESORTVailP.O. Box 7, Vail, 800.805.2457, www.vail.comIts hard to refute that Vail is among the best ski resorts in the state. Whats nothard is pinpointing all the things that make this quintessential Colorado ski area itso stellar. From the slopes rich history as the training grounds for the famed 10thMountain Division of WW2 (and the war-veteran founders of the resort itself), tothe sheer amount of skiable acres, variety of terrain, top-of-the-line amenities andrenowned ski school, Vail seems to satisfy locals and visitors alike. Whether youprefer the ski areas groomed greens, rugged Blue Sky Basin, tree skiing adventures,terrain park playgrounds, alpine village or boutique shoppingor all of the aboveVail rarely disappoints.Eldora Mountain Resort2861 Eldora Ski Road #140, Nederland, 303.440.8700, www.eldora.comBEST CUSTOMER SERVICEMcGuckin Hardware2525 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.443.1822, www.mcguckin.comSometimes you dont need a big box of bolts. We have lots of products that wesell in single units, says McGuckin marketing manager Randy Barker. You can buyone nut, bolt, screw, washer, sheet of sandpaper or a single picture hanger. Wesell grass seed by the pound and rope, chain or cable by the foot. Thats just oneof the simple but profound things McGuckin Hardware does every day to serviceits loyal customers. Another is employing a helpful team of experts. When youbuy from us, our knowledgeable employees can help you select the right productthe first time. At other stores you are sometimes on your own, and if you are notcompetent in what you are doing you may purchase the wrong thing, says Barker.In some cases, we have assisted customers in repairing their product rather thanhaving to bear the expense of a replacement. Speaking of repairs, McGuckinhouses a service shop that cuts keys and glass, repairs window screens and lamps,cut boards, replaces broken tool handles and sharpens knives and blades.Apple Store1755 29th St., Boulder, 720.479.9451, www.apple.com/retail/twentyninthstreetBEST FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONElevations Credit Union2960 Diagonal Highway, Boulder4760 Baseline Road, Boulder611 South Broadway, Boulder1669 Euclid Ave., Suite 143, Boulder1900 W. South Boulder Road, Lafayette2101 N. Main St., Longmont1079 S. Hover, Suite 100, Longmont303.443.4672, www.elevationscu.comWith over five decades of experience under its money belt, Elevations Credit Unionhas become one of Boulder Countys largest and most successful credit unions.Claiming over 80,000 member-owners, Elevations has established a deep foundationand lasting relationship with the community it serves. This financial institutionoffers all the traditional personal and business banking products and services: creditcards, checking and savings accounts, and loans for cars, college, mortgage orbusiness needs. Staffed with financial advisors who understand investments, incomeand retirement planning and can help members make the smartest and most fiscallyresponsible choices, Elevations is once again the credit union of choice for BoulderCounty residents.Wells Fargo1420 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, 303.443.24001242 Pearl Street, Boulder, 303.441.03551690 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, 303.441.03411960 28th Street, Boulder, 303.449.32703289 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 720.565.8804www.wellsfargo.comBEST DENTISTTed Kawulok, D.D.S.,Whole Family Dentistry1400 28th St., Ste 4, Boulder, 303.442.8625, www.wholefamilydentistry.comDr. Ted Kawulok, DDS, specializes in smilesfor the whole family. An expert incosmetic and reconstructive therapies, including the surgical phase of implants,Dr. Kawulok has been giving Boulder County patients something to smile aboutfor 27 years. He also treats neuromuscular issues such as TMJ and full-mouthrehabilitation. The loyal, long-term staff at Whole Family Dentistry is highly trainedand high touch, providing gentle dental care for patients of all ages. We really offercomprehensive care, says Dr. Kawulok. Ive been involved in the industry for along time and know about all the different specialties so I can see the big picture.We want to provide care that will last a lifetime.(TIE)F. Robert Murphy, North Boulder Dental1001 North Street, Boulder, 303.447.1042, www.boulderdental.comVincent F. Cleeves, Jr., D.D.S767 Pearl Street, Suite 230, Boulder, 303.449.8875, www.vincedds.comSEPTEMBER2011 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 23 C A ME R ABEST DRY CLEANER/LAUNDROMATArt Cleaners1715 15th St., Boulder, 303.440.8600;2570 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.499.7030;4800 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.494.2709;1501 Lee Hill Road, Boulder, 303.447.8700;3980 N. Broadway, Boulder, 303.443.0158;1631 Pace St., Longmont, 303.684.8585;300 E. Baseline Road, Lafayette, 303.665.2223,www.artcleaners.comWhen it comes to dry cleaning, convenience isking. Thats where multi-year winner Art Cleanershas got Boulder covered. Art Cleaners offers afree pick-up and delivery service at your homeor office. Or customers are welcome to drop offitems at one of seven locations around BoulderCounty. In addition to standard dry cleaningfor professional shirts and pants, Art Cleanerscan handle the challenge of even your tougheststains and fabrics, from linens to leather. Repeatcustomers feel confident leaving even their mosttreasured garments at Art Cleaners. They knowthat Brian Hansen and his knowledgeable staffwill get it right and use the GreenEarth cleaningsysteman environmentally sound alternative tochemical processingto clean with a conscience.Johns Cleaners440 Black Diamond Drive, Lafayette, 303.665.9493,4800 Baseline Road, Boulder, 303.499.5554 3325, 28th St., Boulder, 303.444.2877,1615 Coalton Road, Superior, 303.499.2776, www.johnsdrycleaners.comCaringforthe BoulderCommunityforover100 years!We are honoredby yourtrustwww. cristmortuary. com 303-442-441124 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER2011 C A ME R ABEST HEALTH CLINICBoulder Medical Center2750 Broadway, Boulder, 303.440.30004745 Arapahoe Ave., Suite 200, Boulder, 303.938.470080 Health Park Drive, Suite 100, Louisville, 303.673.0448www.bouldermedicalcenter.comWhether it was for a minor ear ache or major surgery, chances are if you live nearBoulder youve been to Boulder Medical Center for something. This physician-owned hometown hospital has been treating Boulders active citizens for over62 years. At three campuses, BMC offers comprehensive services ranging fromurgent care, OB/GYN, pediatrics and general surgery to an in-house laboratory,pharmacy and full optical shop. Our effort is to recruit locally, says CEO BradfordMcKane. Were one of those places with local employees that never closes in asnowstorm. BMC takes most major insurances and offers a helpful patient servicesrepresentative who can address any concerns. From its complete services to itscaring ambassadors, Boulder Medical Center is where Boulder goes to get well.Kaiser Permanente580 Mohawk Drive, Boulder, 303.338.45451100 Balsam, Boulder, 303.440.22732345 Bent Way, Longmont, 303.338.4545280 Exempla Circle, Lafayettewww.kaiserpermanente.orgBEST HAIR SALONSalon Salon2460 Canyon Blvd., #1, Boulder, 303.443.5353, www.salonsalonboulder.comThe staff at Salon Salon exudes casual confidence. With so much training andexpertise, they should. The salon functions like clockwork under the carefuldirection of expert manager Chris Weinard. Co-owner Jill Leitz is an internationalplatform artist for Redken; stylist Renee Schroeder is a national educator forthe same brand; and co-owner Terry Mason and stylist Colleen Rios are bothcertified Schwarzkopf color educators. They are educated, reliable and willing tolisten, while in a relaxed atmosphere, says manager Tammy Shellenberger. Witha 20-year reputation for excellence, the Salon Salon team goes out of its way toaccommodate the requests of loyal patrons. In addition to all the cut and colorservices youll need, Salon Salon offers extras like todays hot feather extensionsand tinsel applications.(TIE)The Parlour1037 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.444.3747, www.theparlour.netFix Hair Salon1810 29th St., Ste. 2000, Boulder, 303.442.4247, www.fixhairsalon.comhun|s |or .otinq |or|co-Cyc|e und |or yoursupport o.er thepust 35 yeurs!N0w ||k|'S A |l|| |0v| UACKChec| out our newest cumpuiqn:Stop Iun| ui| |or C000!Cood |or you. Cood |or the p|unet.Siqn up |or your |k|| uccount utwww.ecocyc|e.orq/jun|mui|Sign up at www.ecocycle.org/junkmail(Check your email to activate your account.)family hydr ponicsBOULDERThanks forall of yoursupport,Boulder!-Careybouldersbestpricesserviceselection303- 996- 6100 | 212532ndSt , Boul derwww.familyhydroponics-boulder.comHours: M-F: 9:30-6:30, 10-6 Sat and 11-5 SunSEPTEMBER2011 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 25 C A ME R ABEST TANNING SALONTans to Go1842 30th St., Boulder, 303.444.7600, www.tanstogo.comTans To Go has won the Boulder Gold award 10 years in a row. Doug and Cindy Swartz credit the honor to theiroutstanding staff, many of whom have been with Tans To Go for years. The key to their high standard of customer serviceis empowerment. They are completely empowered to make decisions that ensure that our clients are well taken careof, Doug says. They can do what they need to do so all the customers are satisfied. After 23 years in business, Tans ToGo features the products and services that make it Boulder Countys number-one choice for tanners. There are manychoices out there, says Cindy. We need to earn our customers business and treat them well to keep it. A wonderfulnew addition to the menu of services is a full massage therapy program, with 30-, 60- and 90-minute massages; state-of-the-art equipment adds to the quality of the service for clients. And Tans To Go has greatly enhanced its custom airbrushbusiness, offering remote airbrush direct to your home and business. We are proud to be selected once again by CU tosponsor the Cheer and Dance teams, says Doug.Veranda Sun1670 30th St., Boulder, 720.457.9176, www.verandasun.comBEST STORAGE FACILITYBoulder BinsSelf Storage4900 N. Broadway, Boulder, 303.443.2002,www.selfstorageboulder.comThis business has a long history in Boulder.We are one of the original storage facilitiesin town and the first on the north side,says owner Michelle Luko. We have beenin business for over 30 years and I havecustomers who have been here over 30years! The key is great customer service.Were here for our customers were afriendly and knowledgeable staff. We havea clean facility, a variety of storage sizes,available parking, and were a one-stopplace for possessions and vehicles. We alsoaccept small boats. Our great location isanother reason why customers store here.In the summer we help the students withtheir storage needs. Our employees lovebeing here; we all love our job, to helppeople in a stressful situation. We meet alot of neat people. The staff is definitelylong-term; the former manager was herefor 17 years. Boulder Bins believes in doingcommunity service, too; they gave theFourmile Fire victims one free yearof storage.Boulder Self Storage6439 Arapahoe Rd., Boulder, 303.440.8824,www.boulderselfstore.comBEST SINGLES HANGOUTMediterranean Restaurant (The Med)1002 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.444.5335, www.themedboulder.comWhether by choice or by chance, weve all done some solo time as a single. The very term seems tosuggest youre a little less than, doesnt it? But hey, being single has its good points. You never have tofight over the TV remote, or make whats-for-dinner compromises. And you get to flirt like you mean it.We choose The Mediterranean Restaurant as this years top spot for singles to hang out, put on that flirtand (just maybe) meet someone special. Two full bars, cozy dining areas and a romantic outdoor patioset the scene, providing lots of quality people watching. Kick back with the good tunes, tasty tapas anda shared bottle of wine, enjoy some witty repartee and see what happens. The Meds the perfect spot tostart something new (weve heard that couples think its great, too).(TIE)Sundown Saloon, 1136 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.449.4987The Walrus Saloon,1911 11th St., Boulder, 303.443.9902BEST PLACE TO ENTERTAIN KIDSPearl Street MallPearl St., Boulder, www.boulderdowntown.comThe Pearl Street Mall is famous for its shopping, diningand bars always a good time for the adults. But the mallwas designed from the beginning as a special place forentertaining kids, too and most of the fun is completely free.What envious adult hasnt wanted to join in the exuberant funof the pop-jet fountain (in the 1300 block) on a hot summerday? The frog and snail sculptures in the 1400 block afavorite photo-opp patiently await your climbing kids.Rock structures and fountains beckon young explorers. Andour perennial favorite street performers are guaranteed tomake the little ones stop in their tracks and watch in awe,as Ibashi-i contorts himself into a small Plexiglass box, or thebusker in a top hat on an eight-foot unicycle juggles fierybatons. Frequent arts and ethnic festivals add to the fun andtexture of a visit to the mall and seasonal events like theMunchkin Masquerade (a costume parade and trick-or-treatvisit to mall merchants scheduled for Monday, Oct. 31 from 2to 5 p.m.) add festivity to this special place in the heart of ourcity. Watch for these additional holiday events, for the youngand the young-at-heart: Switch on the Holidays (Santa countsdown to the illumination of the Boulder County Courthouse,the Pearl Street Mall and the star on Flagstaff Mountain, Sat.Nov. 19 at 5 p.m.); St. Nick on the Bricks (Santa visits the mallFriday. Nov. 25 and Saturdays Nov. 26 through Dec. 17, 11a.m. to 2 p.m.) and holiday favorite the Lights of DecemberParade (marching bands, floats, fire engines, scouts, carolersand much more, Sat. Dec. 3 at 6 p.m.).Gateway Fun Park4800 28th Street, Boulder, 303.442.4386www.gatewayfunpark.com26 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD SEPTEMBER2011 C A ME R ABEST SPAEssentiels Spa2660 Canyon Blvd., Boulder, 303.440.0711, www.halcyondayssalonsandspas.comWhats the latest and greatest at Essentiels? Eyelash extensions, a panoply of treatment facials, a new skincare makeupline, paraben-free airbrush tanning, a new nailcare line with no-chip mani-pedi, Thai massage and 10 percent discountfor students. Essentiels Spa opened in 1997 as a full-service spa and has continually provided the best spa experiencein Boulder. Spa Director Lindsay Dunsmore says, Essentiels is a sanctuary designed to allow our guests to step awayfrom their worries and stresses and refresh their mind, body and spirit while receiving cutting-edge treatments. Thisis Boulders spa and is truly a unique escape. The staff and I are supremely committed to exceeding our clientsexpectations. We proactively stay on the forefront of skin rejuvenation, effective waxing, therapeutic massage anddetox treatments, pampering nail services, natural airbrush tanning and special- occasion makeup. I initially came hereas a client and am honored to uphold the reputation of the spa through community involvement, volunteering forworthy causes, client appreciation and sustainability.St. Julien Hotel & Spa900 Walnut St., Boulder, 877.303.0900, www.stjulien.comBEST TRAVEL AGENCYJames Travel1750 14th St # 100, Boulder, 303.442.2340, www.jamestravel.comTravel reveals new horizons for the thoughtfultraveler. It has been said that the world is abook and those who do not travel read onlyone page. But getting from Point A to PointB these days can get pretty complicated, andhaving a professional travel service on yourteam can make all the difference. Since 1957,family-operated James Travel has been helpingBoulder County residents plan vacation andbusiness travel with their expert knowledgeof international locations, the best lodgingdeals, and advice on negotiating through all therules and regulations that can sometimes seemoverwhelming. Book a European barge tripand watch the countryside unfold as your ownfloating hotel drifts down historic waterways.Take a mid-winter break on the beaches ofPuerto Vallarta (James Travel will find you thebest package deals) or explore the tropicaljungles of Costa Rica. James Travel expertsspecialize in the kind of local knowledge thatmakes your experience genuine and enjoyable.With over 50 years in the travel business, JamesTravel has developed long-term relationshipswith their customers, who often include severalgenerations of the same family. Dont pack yourbags without giving James Travel a call.Cain Travel, 2990 Center Green Court, Boulder,303.443.2246, www.caintravel.com4745Arapahoe, #130 Boulder303-558-8800 enhanceyourskin.com(inside Boulder Community Foothills Hospital)ThankYou Boulder!for your continued support.50% Off your rst laser, Botox,or ller injection treatments.Boulders Best Skin Care Facility LookYour Best, Call 303-558-8800SEPTEMBER2011 BOULDER COUNTY GOLD 27 C A ME R ABEST SKINCARE FACILITYLaser & Cosmetic Associates of Boulder4745 Arapahoe Ave., Suite 130, Boulder, 303.558.8800, www.enhanceyourskin.comWe do have an excellent customer-service and medical-based facility, says SunYoung, office manager. Were different from a make-you-feel-better spa. These areclinical treatments and you see results. Laser & Cosmetic Associates of Boulderis owned and operated by local board-certified physicians. They offer medical-grade laser and non-surgical facial treatments and facial plastic surgery to provideexceptional and lasting results. Led by Andrew Goldman, M.D., a double boar