Elevating Eats: Colorado's Rise to MICHELIN Stardom
2023 MICHELIN Guide's First-Ever Colorado Selection
Discover the Stars of Colorado's Dining Scene
As the snow gently blankets Colorado's majestic landscapes, a new constellation of culinary stars emerges, signaling a gastronomic renaissance in the Centennial State. December 2023 marks a momentous occasion as Colorado proudly welcomes its first ever MICHELIN Guide selections. This prestigious recognition has foodies, chefs, and culinary enthusiasts buzzing with excitement, ready to embark on a flavor-filled journey through some of the most innovative and sustainable kitchens in the nation.
A Stellar Debut: Colorado's First MICHELIN Stars
Five exceptional restaurants have been graced with the coveted MICHELIN Star, a testament to their culinary brilliance. Beckon in Denver, Bosq in Aspen, Brutø in Denver, Frasca Food and Wine in Boulder, and The Wolf’s Tailor in Denver are now shining beacons in the state's dining scene. Each establishment, with its unique approach to gastronomy, invites diners to explore contemporary, Italian, Mexican, and eclectic cuisines.
Beckon: A Warm Welcome to Culinary Excellence
Nestled in Denver's vibrant RiNo district, Beckon by Chef Duncan Holmes is more than a restaurant; it's an experience. With its Scandi-cool ambiance and an 18-seat counter offering an intimate view of the kitchen, Beckon serves a quarterly rotating contemporary tasting menu. The seared quail breast with confit leg, accompanied by creamed kale with sunflower seeds, is a standout dish that exemplifies the restaurant's commitment to creativity and quality.
Bosq: Where Nature Meets the Plate
In the heart of Aspen, Bosq by Chef Barclay Dodge is a sanctuary for those who cherish locally foraged and fermented ingredients. This culinary haven allows diners to curate their own tasting journey, featuring dishes that harmoniously blend local elements with global influences. Grilled lobster over juniper wood and hand-picked spruce tips are just a glimpse of the wonders that await at Bosq.
Brutø: A Toast to Local Flavors and Sustainability
Denver's Brutø, led by Chef Michael Diaz de Leon, is a testament to the power of locality and seasonality. With a Mexican soul and a contemporary twist, the menu showcases in-house milled grains and a mastery of hearth cooking. Dishes like the dual-preparation lamb, both as a street-style taco and a ground lamb leg kushiyaki, highlight the restaurant's innovative spirit.
Frasca Food and Wine: A Friulian Fantasy in Boulder
At Frasca Food and Wine, Chef Ian Palazzola takes guests on a culinary journey to Friuli Venezia Giulia, an Italian region known for its distinct flavors. The menu blends Italian tradition with Colorado's finest ingredients, creating dishes like the cjalson - spinach pasta pockets filled with English pea and potato purée.
The Wolf’s Tailor: A Tapestry of Global Tastes
Denver's The Wolf’s Tailor, helmed by Chef Taylor Stark, is a culinary mosaic, skillfully blending Nordic, Italian, and East Asian cuisines. This restaurant's ever-evolving menu is a testament to its commitment to ingredient-focused cooking, with fermentation playing a starring role.
Green Stars: A Commitment to Sustainability
In addition to the One-Star accolades, Colorado's dining scene has been recognized for its environmental stewardship with four MICHELIN Green Stars. Blackbelly Market, Bramble & Hare, Brutø, and The Wolf’s Tailor have all demonstrated exceptional initiatives in sustainability, from zero-waste policies to local sourcing and foraging.
Bib Gourmand and Special Awards: Recognizing Culinary Diversity
The MICHELIN Guide also honors nine Bib Gourmand recipients, including AJ's Pit Bar-B-Q and Ash’Kara, for their exceptional food at moderate prices. Special Awards were presented to Caroline Clark of The Wolf’s Tailor for exceptional cocktails, Ryan Fletter and Erin Lindstone of Barolo Grill were awarded Sommelier, front-of-house service went to Sergei Kiefel and front-of-house team of Frasca Food and Wine, and the young chef award went to Blackbelly Market’s Kelly Kawachi, further highlighting the depth of talent in Colorado's food scene.
Colorado's Unique Hotels: A Perfect Pairing
Complementing the culinary scene, Colorado's unique hotels offer unforgettable experiences for travelers seeking style, service, and personality. From upscale outdoor campsites to refurbished wilderness retreats, these accommodations provide the perfect backdrop for a gastronomic getaway.
The MICHELIN Guide: A New Benchmark in Colorado
With 44 restaurants spanning 15 cuisine types, the 2023 MICHELIN Guide Colorado selection represents a diverse and dynamic food scene. It's not just a list of restaurants; it's a celebration of Colorado's culinary prowess and a testament to the state's growing reputation as a top food destination.
As we embrace the chilly months, Colorado's kitchens are ablaze with creativity and passion. Whether you're a local food lover or a traveling gastronome, this is the perfect time.
The Chef Global Restaurant and Chef Sentiment Ratings plus Critic Reviews from our industry-leading Restaurant Critic - Paul Barron.
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