Annual leaderboard
2024's most interesting and outstanding new restaurant and bar openings across the city; how to host a sober-friendly bar at your holiday party + more food & drink news
As a one-man production, Side Dish isn’t at capacity to host a full-sized Best Of issue. To accomplish such a thing at my level of standard, I would desire a smart online voting system for a subscribers’ categories which would be force fed a lot of curated data — a gavage of sorts. Then there’s the culling and the sorting and calling and blurbing and so on, requiring a time input that I can’t justify, for an outcome I’m not sure is worth it. (Is the goal to compete with the Gazette or new CS Indy in their food & drink categories? Or the daily community ranking across Facebook group platforms?)
Honestly, one of the biggest reliefs when departing my many years at the newspaper was not having to produce tedious special issues. Why saddle myself with an unloved task when starting my own business? It’s not that I don’t want to know what my readers think. I do. The cool thing is, beyond my comment section and social media pages, with monthly Sip With Schnip events I’m available for them to come talk to me themselves, as many have. I still take heart in knowing they’re curious about what I think. I get asked all the time for recommendations to my favorite spots.
But I trust the savviest in our foodie community — my subscribers if I’m tooting Side Dish’s horn (which sounds more like a shofar or the Horn of Gondor than honking a clown prop or pet toy, for the record) — to already know the general lay of the land. Your favorite international eats, coffee shops, burger and pizza and taco spots, etc. You don’t need me to tell you about Roman Villa’s legacy or Shuga’s Brazilian coconut soup or Margarita at Pine Creek’s patio or Josh & John's flagship flavors. Most Best-of lists are popularity contests among who can push people to the poll — you know this. But what you might not know is the newest spots in town, if you missed a week or two of opening your email from me, or arrived at this party late.
So, I’m trying something new this year with my own mini call-out to the most interesting and outstanding new restaurant and bar openings. Note I’m intentionally avoiding the vague and overused word “best” and I aim to concisely point to more specific and concrete reasons I’m selecting each spot for a nod. Okay, enough foreplay. Let’s disrobe the silverware setting and start clinking metal to porcelain:
Design is everything, and beautiful spaces attract the eye and make you want to spend time in them. Atmosphere creates a mood and we gravitate to that which matches ours in a moment. Dim, moody-broody or bright, shiny and lush. Beyond the decor, there’s the small touches like interesting glassware and well-selected cutlery. And ultimately the product you put in your mouth. There’d better be a great freakin’ cocktail or top-tier latte or bangin’ bowl of noodles to deliver on the promise of something special. Five spots opened in 2024 hit all these marks memorably in their own unique ways: Bar Thirty Three, Night Ramen, Blk Mgk, Evergreen and Lazy Susan’s. (All links here and below will take you to my reporting — click if you missed).
Bar Thirty Three delivers subterranean swank and sophistication while Blk Mgk bleeds beautiful ‘spro drinks with options for tinkering with tinctures. Lazy’s Susan’s transports Bloom Ultra Lounge’s vibe to the Palmer Park area in an enterprising effort to overhaul a strip mall space. Night Ramen wins for creativity with the waving kitty wall and lantern ceiling and the food matches the hype. Evergreen is an elegant, hidden nook with fine drinks, lavish pastries and the recent addition of a talented chef to take it to the next level.
Lest’s go West next, and applaud a couple of openings just north of Old Colorado City: Mausam and WestFax Springs. Mausam introduced us to Indian items and flavors we’ve not encountered before, headed by a Michelin-awarded chef brought to town to teach us the ways. It’s a cut above and if you still haven’t been I know not why. Meanwhile, WestFax quickly made itself feel like a local even if it is an expansion out of Lakewood. The brews are great and they’re quickly connecting with neighbors (like the imminently opening Codswallop!).
Honorable mention Boards & Barrels in Woodland Park. As I said in my review, they’re no Red Diamond Gastro Pub but they do have some nice fine dining touches and surprised us at a couple turns, and are undoubtedly helping elevate the scene up Ute Pass. (*I’m overdue to visit South Park Brewing Co., who also moved to C. Springs and have perhaps made similar inroads into our community like WestFax.)
Nods North and South next, go to Por Favor Tacos & Tragos and Akarui Sushi & Wok, then Stompin’ Groundz and Luchal’s Soulful Seafood. Just when we though we had hit a saturation point of taco shops in town — counter to Mayor Yemi Mobolade’s assertion on our Tap&Table show that “we need more” — Por Favor said “please” and we said “hell yes!” after trying our first bites and margarita sips. It’s a family effort from seasoned hands and the end result shows on the plate. Akarui is a touch over a year old (forgive my rule fudging) but they’re still underrated as sushi that stood out for great presentations and unique items like blue crab soup dumplings with a coconut-truffle sauce. Stompin Groundz added craft coffee to the under-represented Southeast side stylishly, as well as community-connection space vital to the area. Luchal’s, meanwhile, brought the party and their food-truck- and COATI-tested prowess to Fountain, filling voids as well. From brunch to karaoke, there’s more than just the Cajun/Creole fare to attract their new neighbors.
Shuffling to the East, I’m awarding The Chuckwagon 719, Taste of Ethiopia, Caddie’s at Valley Hi Golf Course and Restaurant Arelita. In reverse order this time: Arelita is the answer to your next Cuban food craving, just as you start despairing that you can’t get Lucy I’m Home anymore. Go for the eponymous Arelita sandwich and a glass of guarapo (fresh-pressed sugar cane juice). Caddie’s is what happened when the 503W folks finally scratched the itch to expand, and take their coveted Asian fusion/Latino food mix to the fairway (or green, or insert a more fitting golf lingo here; I don’t play). It’s not just another burger or pizza in town, but a satisfying bite with a killer view and wow they pulled off pandan in a cocktail spectacularly (click review link above for details). Taste of Ethiopia could have also earned a spot in my design category as it’s very sleek and modern but also ambitious in its mall-adjacent spot. The family and staff are beyond hospitable and our eats were excellent (and unique from Uchenna’s always-amazing renditions). Go for a coffee ceremony or giant combo plate. And lastly, Chuckwagon 719 needs little introduction, but they did move to brick-and-mortar mid-year and earn daily, hour-plus-long lines at their door. Their unmatched barbecue badassery is propelling them to two new openings in the new year in OCC.
Getting back to the heart of the matter and looking centrally — where four of my five design winners above also reside — we come to several more places that have added something meaningful to the cultural fabric of our food & drink scene. In no particular order: Lulu’s Downtown brought the tunes over from Manitou, reviving the once lively music stage of 32 Bleu and offering good drinks for intimate show nights; more recently they added weekday coffee programming by day. Illegal Pete’s finally opened and quickly connected to the community, making a case for treating the regional chain like a local. Their mission-style Mexican one-ups Chipotle. Another transplant, Gaia Masala & Burger, impressed us with legit Indian fare and odd hybrid cuisine items that somehow work; plus they pushed the late-night boundaries. And ICONS returned bigger and better after the fire that forced them from their OG spot a block away. The new space is warm, welcoming and filled with wonderful song from Broadway-level talents; we were blown away at a recent visit, sipping on cocktails and mocktails with starstruck eyes.
Honorable mentions are for Eleven18 and Nacho Matrix, both Side Dish Dozen members/sponsors who transparently I feel I shouldn’t award for obvious conflict-of-interest reasons. However, I’d be remiss to skip mentioning them entirely because they’re both higher-profile places that others have validated as worthwhile, too. Brother Luck has taken the helm at Eleven18 and brought a raw bar along, keeping the pretty paella plates and elevating everything, while Jacob Pfund’s cocktails are among the top in town. Nacho Matrix was the long-in-conception next step for the owners of Odyssey Gastropub, who, like 503W with Caddie’s, expanded out of downtown proper. The location, next to Goat Patch Brewing, creates the perfect pairing of savory-salty (and huge) nacho platters and hoppy craft beer pints.
Four more things
1) This post has been edited. After publishing, I learned of one very recent closure (and removed that business from the above story for accuracy and courtesy) and realized I left out an awesome business that absolutely should have made my list on the first go around: Cocktails After Dusk, who pops up weekly in the Salad or Bust space with Orsetto’s Wood-Fired Pizza. Bartenders and co-creators Tim Chapman and Anastacio GarciaLiley are killin’ it with creativity and passion. Go check it out.
2) Springs Magazine also made some nice year-end roundups as publications are oft to do at this season. They opined on: 17 of the Buzziest New Colorado Springs Restaurants in 2024 and 15 New Bars, Breweries, Coffee and Tea Houses in Colorado Springs and said Farewell to Colorado Springs Restaurants That Closed in 2024.
3) Next week, my full 2024 Side Dish year-in-review.
4) Side Dish paid subscribers are already reading about my food and drink adventures in Portugal my recent batch of mini reviews from a cluster of places off Space Village Ave. Consider a monthly or annual membership for 2025 (which includes perks) to support journalism for our diverse and deserving culinary drink community. And if you’re one of the 1,000-plus people who read Side Dish regularly but still haven’t subscribed to get it free in your inbox weekly — I see you in my metrics, ahem — please do so. Scroll up to the blue “subscribe” or “upgrade” button at the top of the screen. For a limited time, I’ve got a little incentive, too:
Do your holiday shopping with Ranch Foods Direct
Hosting with care: how to make sober guests feel included at your holiday gatherings
A guest column by Abby Laine Sienkiewicz
The holidays often focus on connection and celebration, and I’m here for it: meaningful conversations, sparkles, good laughs and — of course — the snacks. But as someone in recovery, navigating social gatherings as a sober person can sometimes feel awkward or even isolating. The good news? Small, intentional choices from hosts can create a more welcoming atmosphere. And a little extra thoughtfulness from all can make a big difference in helping everyone feel included.
Offer non-alcoholic options (and make them visible)
Have non-alcoholic (NA) drinks readily available, beyond just water. Think sparkling waters, juices or alcohol-free versions of festive drinks. And here’s a key tip: keep some of these options visible and accessible outside the bar area. Not everyone wants to wade through the crowd or be surrounded by the boozier options to grab something NA. A dedicated spot for these beverages sends the message that everyone’s choices are valued. Plus, easily accessible water is a solid idea for all folks, no matter their beverage of choice.
Next level: Consider NA beer/wine, hoppy water or kombucha offerings. Opinions vary greatly on whether folks enjoy or pass (for various reasons) with these NA options, but golly, there's a lot of variety out there! Unsure? Ask your guests if they have a preference. You may find yourself with a new favorite.
Skip the "why aren't you drinking?" questions
Look, I know you may mean well, but asking someone why they aren’t drinking can get real old, real fast and can also be uncomfortable. Whether it’s for sobriety, health, or just plain I don’t feel like it, it’s none of your business. Instead, focus on actual connection. I love a good question: “What’s giving you hope these days?” or “What are you listening to right now?”
Let’s say your guest replies “I don’t drink” or something similar when offered a cocktail. Not sure what to do? Offer an NA option and don’t comment at all. Or consider a follow up like “thanks for sharing, I didn’t know” or “would you like to tell me more?” (You must be cool with a “no” reply for the latter option.)
Curious about sobriety? Let’s talk … later!
If you’re genuinely curious about my choice to stay sober, that’s awesome. But a party isn’t the time to dive into the topic, particularly if you’ve been drinking. You might say something like, “I’d love to hear more about this, if you’re open to it — maybe another time?” This lets me know you’re interested, without putting me in an awkward or overly personal conversation during a celebration.
Don’t assume sober guests are your default problem-solvers
It’s tempting to lean on the sober or non-imbibing folks to fill in gaps — like being the designated driver, managing logistics or taking care of others who’ve overindulged. While I’m often happy to help, don’t assume it’s part of my RSVP. I’m here to celebrate, too! If you need support, ask directly, and spread those responsibilities around so they don’t fall on one person.
Check in, but respect boundaries
A simple check-in can go a long way: “Hey, let me know if you need anything!” or “Are you good?” It’s a thoughtful gesture, but don’t overdo it. Respect boundaries and avoid making anyone feel singled out for not drinking.
Normalize non-drinking as part of the festivities
Here’s the thing: Not drinking is just as normal as drinking. When you approach your party with that mindset, it shows. Feature NA options like you would any other part of the menu, without making a big deal out of it. You don’t need to label things “special” or “mock” — just include them like the norm they are. The more we can normalize non-drinking, sobriety and recovery the more welcoming our spaces will be.
Celebrate inclusivity
The best parties are those where everyone feels like they belong and that consider the element of all types of accessibility. Taking steps to create a space that’s welcoming for sober guests, as one group, isn’t just considerate; it’s a way to celebrate the diversity of our community. Sober inclusivity is just one part of belonging. If you’re interested in making your celebrations more welcoming, there are many other resources out there to help make gatherings inclusive and accessible for all. This is just one sober human’s reflections. I don’t speak for us all. But if even one of these ideas makes your guests feel more at ease, it’s a win. Cheers to hosting and gathering with care!
Abby Laine Sienkiewicz is a gardener, consultant and facilitator who finds inspiration in nature, good company and the kitchen. Whether tending their westside garden, baking salty-sweet treats or hiking in the woods, Abby's always exploring ideas for connection.
Side Dish Dozen happenings
🍎Ascent Beverage: Come to our free spirit tastings around town for last-minute gift ideas. Dec. 20 we’re at Freedom Liquor from 3-6 p.m. and Dec. 21 we’re at Veterans Wine & Liquor from 1-4 p.m.
🔪Eleven18: A Fire and Ice Experience with Axe and the Oak Distillery: live artistry and five immersive courses, 4-10 p.m., Dec. 21. Online class with Brother: Prime Rib, 6 p.m., Dec. 23, $35. The Ultimate Knife Fight returns, Jan. 9. Interested chefs DM Chef Brother Luck. Everyone else come watch the action; details soon.
🍻Bristol Brewing Company: Pop in to the brewery and grab a 250ml corked-and-caged Champagne bottle of Belgian Saison for your holiday feast, and toast the day with great taste and the people you love.
🥃The Carter Payne: Reserve a seat now for Dec. 28’s special Evening with 1874 Distilling (menu here), co-presented by Jeff and Schnip’s good pal Kodi from Del Norte, CO’s Windsor Hotel and 1874 Distilling. Next up: Dec. 31’s New York New Year’s party, with three- and five-course options for $60/$95.
🇩🇪Edelweiss: Enjoy our house house Glühwein (mulled wine) with your meal and take a 1-liter bottle home for later, or gifting. We’re also selling Christmas cookies and Stollen through year’s end, as well as gift cards for family and friends.
🍷Odyssey Gastropub: Come see us for Monday Madness, with half-priced bottles of wine available all day, every Monday.
🍝Red Gravy: Get our December special before it’s gone: Rigatoni Alessandro, with smoked salmon, garbanzo, tomato confit, Kalamata olives, capers and basil in a lemon cream sauce. Seats are available for the next Sunday Supper Club, Jan. 12.
🍺Goat Patch Brewing: Tap room session with Doug Conlon & Kevin Mastin, 5-7 p.m., Dec. 20. We close at 4 p.m. Dec. 24; closed Christmas. Therapeutic Thursdays Adult Coloring Night with NSFC coloring pages provided, 6-8 p.m., Dec. 26.
🎄The French Kitchen: Last chance to order entrées, apps, yule logs, fresh breads and pastries for Christmas! Shop our new Holiday Catalogue gift ideas. We’ll be open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Dec. 23 for last-minute shoppers.
🌮T-Byrd’s Tacos & Tequila: Come savor Chef Dustin Archuleta’s taco of the month, the Pato à l’Orange, with roasted duck, cilantro orange sauce and butternut squash. Get $3.50 tacos and $5 Margaritas and Swirls all day on Taco Tuesdays. Our new $11.99 lunch special from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily gets you chips & salsa, two tacos, rice, beans and a fountain drink.
🥢Wobbly Olive: Hit our Powers or downtown location to check out chef Mark Henry’s new menu, featuring items like a Miso-roasted pork chop with Cantonese spicy noodles, creamy slaw and roasted plum sauce. Half-priced cocktails from our full menu during happy hours, 4-6 p.m., Mondays through Fridays.
🍹Rasta Pasta: Give gift cards from locally owned restaurants this holiday season. Lunch specials daily until 3 p.m. Happy hour daily from 3-5 p.m. with $3 Red Stripes, $4 rum punch and $5 munchies.
☕️Kangaroo Coffee: Our Gift Cards are still available at all locations until Dec. 24 and our styling KC Black Tumblers made by our talented Hillside friend are available through Dec. 31 for only $21.95.
🎁Blue Star Group: Give the gift of great food this season 👇
Upcoming events
* Book early for any Christmas- or New Year’s-themed prix fixe dinners at your favorite spots. I’ve listed some that I received info on, but I’m not spending precious time this week combing the interwebs for listings. (Snooze-fest.) Call it a holiday gift to myself.
• Dec. 22: Sunday Breakfast with Santa at Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort. 8-10 a.m., Dec. 22 with a $5 waffle breakfast and special coffees for additional purchase.
• Dec. 24: Christmas Eve Dinner at Cansano Italian Steakhouse by Chef Pete Moreno. Resos from 2-6:30 p.m. Prime rib and special menu, viewable here. (As I said in my review last year, I respect that FO4R North, of which Cansano is a part, is competing as a local with the excess of chain establishments around them off Interquest Pkwy.)
• Dec. 27: Magic & Mixology Distillery Tour Experience with Alexander the "OK" at Blackhat Distillery. $45 for “a 90-minute adventure where the art of distillation meets the world of illusion.” Includes a tasting flight and one cocktail. 5, 7 and 9 p.m. slots.
• Dec. 31: Family-friendly Noon Year’s Eve Bash at WhirleyBall. Noon- 2 p.m. and 3-5 p.m.; $30/adults, $25/kids under 16. Open WhirlyBall, laser tag, bowling, and pop-up games plus a wide lunch buffet including desserts and soda plus a cash bar.
• Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Wine Dinner at TAPAteria and New Year’s Eve Dinner at Pizzeria Rustica. Click links for full details.
Parting shot(s)
Thanks to everyone who came out to Bunzy’s & Booze last week for our Sip With Schnip featuring Ascent Beverage-represented spirit makers from our region. I only snapped a handful of shots before the crowd arrived and we all got buried in conversations plus whiskey, rum and cider tastings. Oh, and plates of awesome Bunzy sandwiches and pizzas. If you’ve still never been to this neighborhood hidden-gem just off Union Boulevard (near the Olympic Training Center) definitely check it out. They rock a mean dough game and some great cocktails. Cool thing: Our Sip With Schnip event menu is sticking around and will be available as a winter cocktail specials. (Not featuring the 50% off for Side Dish subscribers —that was just for the one-night party. Hey, you snooze you lose. I warned ’ya.)
A note of deep appreciation for all the fine prose you present on behalf of our F & B community. A leader board calls for an enlightened leader to produce it and you continue to model that role with exceptional skill and boundless commitment. Well done. Oh wait, can I say that as a Side Dish Dozen sponsor without a conflict of interest? Answer. YES!
Thank you for the timely NA party options!