The Penrose Room
broadmoor.com

Since closing during the pandemic, The Broadmoor last year unveiled a reimagined Penrose Room. “I absolutely think we did the right thing by taking our time,” The Broadmoor’s executive chef told me. I think so, too. What a stunning, unforgettable night out, complete with martinis made tableside and wraparound views of the mountains and twinkling city. It’s an elevated scene for hotel guests, yes. But The Penrose Room was historically a local hangout, and it’s easy to see that history continuing in the cocktail lounge. — Seth Boster

Uchenna Ethiopian Restaurant
uchennaalive.com

You won’t find fast food at Uchenna Ethiopian Restaurant, a locally owned eatery in Old Colorado City. Your meal will take time to prepare, but it’s worth the wait for the plates piled with nourishing stews of lentils, chickpeas, fava beans, vegetables and exotic spices. And there are options for carnivores. The best part? The spongy injera, Ethiopia’s traditional flatbread that’s made from teff, a grain. Instead of utensils, you can use it to scoop up misser wat, with its split red lentils, garlic, onions, tomato sauce and spices. – Jennifer Mulson

Yellow Mountain Tea House
yellow-mountain-organic-tea.com

Located in the heart of Old Colorado City, Yellow Mountain Tea House offers a restaurant experience you won’t soon forget. Give dim sum dining a try amid a serene atmosphere, with popular options including chicken dumplings, wonton soup, and beef and cabbage buns. Whatever you do, don’t skip the tea ceremony, which involves picking a tea from dozens of offered varieties and getting it freshly brewed right at your table. — Spencer McKee

The Ice Cream Mill
icecreammill.com

Growing up in a Jamaican household, Rum Raisin ice cream was always a family favorite. While some ice cream brands carry the flavor, a good Rum Raisin is hard to find. Well, it was hard to find. The Ice Cream Mill offers a great Rum Raisin that always brings me back to my childhood. There are other homemade flavors as well, including Rainbow Chocolate Chip and Lemon Custard, among more than 25 others on a given day. The western decor of the shop gives it an authentic feel. It’s a must for any family night out. — Hugh Johnson

Stellina Pizza Cafe
stellinapizza.co

Middle Shooks Run neighborhood is home to a hidden gem that’s worth a visit. At Stellina Pizza Cafe, you can enjoy Roman-style pizza, fresh pasta, risotto and house-made gelato. The atmosphere of this Italian eatery matches that of the neighborhood: cozy and inviting. During my latest trip, I tried the pizza perfection that is the Polpetta, a pie with flavorful meatballs, stringy mozzarella and parmesan. The ingredients were well-balanced, and I soon found myself eating more than half of the pie, a sure sign of a good meal. — Ajia Cuevas

Four by Brother Luck
fourbybrotherluck.com

While Chef Brother Luck may not be a Colorado native, the region has undeniably shaped his culinary style. The concept of Four by Brother Luck is rooted in the hunter, the gatherer, the farmer and the fisherman, drawing inspiration from the Four Corners region and guiding a four-course tasting menu that shifts throughout the year. Because menus change with the seasons, returning to Four by Brother Luck again and again promises fresh dishes and new flavor profiles. — Kelly Spieker