Colorado’s food scene has been quietly rising to national prominence. Between Michelin stars, James Beard awards, and chefs who’ve made appearances on TV screens, the Centennial State is serving up serious talent. We take a look at where Colorado has shone, and which personalities are helping put it on the culinary map.
Awards & Accolades
Michelin Guide
The Wolf’s Tailor in Denver recently became the first restaurant in Colorado to earn two Michelin stars. Located in Sunnyside, the restaurant operates on a zero-waste mentality, earning a Michelin Green Star. Providing contemporary, creative cuisine chef Taylor Stark and his team offer an ambitious multicourse menu inspired by wanderlust.
Other Denver restaurants that recently earned one‑star Michelin status include Kizaki, Margot, and Mezcaleria Alma. Kizaki is the latest concept from Chef Toshi Kizaki, a trailblazer in Denver’s sushi scene. Blending traditional edomae techniques with modern flourishes, this new dining experience offers a multi-course meal where the chef selects the dishes.
Margot gives diners a meticulously crafted menu that balances flavors from around the globe with the unique produce of Colorado. Enjoy share plates in the open-air dining room located in Platte Park.
Sister restaurant to last year’s Michelin Star recipient Alma Fonda Fina, Mezcaleria Alma brings the vibrant spirit of Mexico City with CDMX-inspired small plates. Located in the LoHi neighborhood, Chef Johnny Curiel focuses on the innovative cooking from the region.
Boulder’s Cozobi Fonda Fina, also by Chef Curiel, has been honored with a Bib Gourmand recognition, indicating great quality at reasonable prices. Named after the Zapotec god of corn, the menu is a celebration of maize in its many forms.
James Beard Foundation
Frasca Food and Wine in Boulder won the 2025 James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant. The honor recognizes the best food and drinks every year in the United States. This is the restaurant’s first time to win the award since opening in 2004, and it is the only Colorado winner this year.
2025 James Beard finalists from Colorado include Josh Niernberg of Bin 707 Foodbar in Grand Junction, Alma Fonda Fina for Best New Restaurant, Yuan Wonton with Penelope Wong for Best Chef: Mountain, Poulette Bakeshop’s Carolyn Nugent and Alen Ramos for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker, and Yacht Club for Outstanding Professional Cocktail Service.
New York Times Best 50 Restaurants in America
While Bin 707 Foodbar was a finalist in the James Beard Awards, it was also placed on The New York Times’ list of 50 best restaurants in America. Located on Colorado’s Western Slope in Grand Junction, Chef Niernberg is making a name for himself with his risky and playful take on flavor.
Reporter Brian Gallagher noted, “the truly exceptional Angus ‘filet,’ actually a rib cap roulade, came atop a shallow pool of Jasper Hill cheese reminiscent of a queso and was acidified with a miso chimichurri.”
It’s no surprise that Mezcaleria Alma also landed on this list. The mezcal old-fashioned with fig and tamarind notes, tostada de toro made with tuna belly, and the burrita de chicharrón were highlighted as must-haves.
TV Chefs & Media Presence
Several local chefs and restaurants have gained exposure through TV or competitions, including Chef Brother Luck in Colorado Springs. This well-known culinary personality has competed on Beat Bobby Flay, Chopped, and Top Chef. He owns Four by Brother Luck in downtown Colorado Springs, offering redefined Southwestern cuisine.
221 S Oak in Telluride is owned by Eliza Gavin, who appeared on season 10 of Top Chef. Gavin trained at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris but set down roots in the mountain town. Using fresh ingredients simply, and bright flavors paired with French Classic techniques, she describes her method as Modern Bistro Cuisine.
Chris Royster, the executive chef and co-owner of Flagstaff House in Boulder, was the Chopped Season 31 champion. The fine dining restaurant has also garnered several accolades, including 42 Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star ratings.
Restaurateur Carrie Baird was a finalist on season 15 of Top Chef, and in 2019, she appeared on Beat Bobby Flay. Since then, she has earned numerous awards for her work as executive chef at Bar Dough, including being named a semi-finalist for the James Beard Award. She currently serves as the culinary director at The Culinary Creative Group’s Americana division and is a partner and chef at Fox and the Hen.
These awards draw more attention and help legitimize Colorado restaurants beyond regional fame. Innovative chefs and ownership groups who focus not just on taste, but on sustainability, farm‑to‑table sourcing, creative design, and ambiance are helping set the stage for our state to shine in the culinary big leagues.
Shows visiting Colorado and chefs stepping into the public eye help draw tourists, food lovers, and local support. There’s an exciting environment of restaurants and chef personalities to explore in this Rocky Mountain state.