Let’s start with those awarded Michelin stars in 2023…

1. The Wolf’s Tailor – Highland, Denver

Winner of not just a Michelin star, but also a Michelin green star (for sustainability), this is one of my personal favorite spots in Denver — helmed by Chef Taylor Stark and brought to you by the hospitality group led by award-winning Chef Kelly Whitaker (also of BRUTØ below). From their own website, “The innovative, multi-course tasting experience at the Wolf’s Tailor revolves around two prominent seasons: warmer months spotlight garden-fresh produce, while cooler months feature imaginative spins on local grains and fermentation.” Wolf’s Tailor looks casual when you first walk in: an open kitchen, multi-toned wood and brick, clean lines of glass and steel, and a little garden out back. But everything I’ve ever eaten here has been anything but simple — and always impeccable. The seating options here are conducive to parties of more than just 2, as they don’t revolve around a chef’s counter. Dinner here is approximately $160 per person — plus $120 for a wine pairing, $95 for a beverage pairing (mix of cocktails, cider, and beer), or $80 for a zero-proof pairing.

2. BRUTØ – LoDo, Denver

BRUTØ is also brought to you by Chef Kelly Whitaker’s hospitality group — and is also the recipient of not just a Michelin star, but also a Michelin green star (for sustainability). Since receiving its awards, the restaurant has transitioned from being helmed by Chef Michael Diaz de Leon (who made the most amazing lamb street-style tacos) to Chef Byron Gomez — who will certainly retain the Latin flare — but other changes remain to be seen. Seating here revolves around the main chef’s table, although there are a few intimate high-tops for 2 around the perimeter, as well. Dinner here is approximately $160 per person — plus $125 for a wine pairing, $95 for a beverage pairing (mix of cocktails, cider, and beer), or $75for a zero-proof pairing.

3. Beckon – RiNo (Denver)

Chef Duncan Holmes serves a captivating seasonal menu at Beckon that highlights both the meat and vegetables equally. Michelin calls out his seared quail breast with confit leg as “spot on” in their 2023 review. The seating options here are an 18-person chef’s counter (the main focus of the restaurant), the sommelier’s salon (with a couple of extra tables), or the garden patio during better weather. There is a seasonal prix-fixe menu, served over the course of two-and-a-half hours, and reservations are available for parties of 1-4 guests and should be made far in advance. Dinner here will run you approximately $180 per person, and a wine pairing either $125 or $195 (depending on the tier). Another option to try Chef Duncan’s food at a lower price is to book a reservation next door at their more casual recent restaurant, Major Tom.

4. Frasca Food & Wine – Boulder

Frasca has been a mainstay of the local culinary scene since opening in the heart of Boulder in 2004 — and it deservedly received a Michelin star in 2023. The James Beard Foundation has also recognized Frasca for outstanding hospitality and wine service. Michelin inspectors pointed out Chef Ian Palazzola’s focus on the lesser-know northeast Italian region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, while also showcasing ingredients that are clearly Coloradan. Frasca offers a 4-course menu for $140, a 9-course menu for $205 (and $175 wine pairing), or a special 10-course chef’s table experience for $295 per person (and wine is available as an add-on).

5. Blackbelly Market – Boulder (and soon also Denver)

Blackbelly Market didn’t receive a regular Michelin star, but rather a green star for sustainability — but green stars are actually more interesting to me, as they signify a farm-to-table focus. Award-winning Chef/owner Hosea Rosenberg (who runs both Blackbelly and Santo in Boulder) states that the mission at Blackbelly is that food will always start with seasonal, local Colorado-grown ingredients and pasture-raised, sustainable animals. Blackbelly distinguishes itself with its in-house butchery program, led by Head Butcher Kelly Kawachi (who also received Michelin recognition as an up-and-coming star). The charcuterie boards here are next-level, showcasing duck rillette, pork terrine, headcheese, and saucisson. Needless to say, this is a very meat-focused restaurant, but everything they prepare — from octopus, to duck, to lamb — is mouthwatering. Blackbelly is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner — and the prices here are very reasonable.

6. Bramble & Hare / Black Cat – Boulder

While Bramble & Hare was the Michelin green star recipient, I’m adding Black Cat to the same entry, as these are sister restaurants both owned by Jill and Chef Eric Skokan — and they both source their organic produce and meats from Jill and Eric’s farmstead, Bramble Hill (in addition to locally foraged wild produce). Even the prosciutto is aged in-house from their own pigs. Bramble & Hare, with its “farmhouse-meets-lodge vibe,” offers an unpretentious, seasonal 3-course menu for $68 and lovely wine and craft cocktail options. Black Cat is currently undergoing a county permitting process, but I can’t wait for its re-opening!