DINING
DOUGHNUT
EDITORS’ CHOICE
The Donut House
The display cases at this local father-and-son-owned chain (nine locations between Denver and Castle Rock) teem with choices, from Cro Holes to cinnamon-and-sugar twists. The handmade yeast dough that serves as the base for the raised doughnuts bakes up so fluffy that any selection is gratifying. Something special you’ll rarely find in the cases are the Legend Donuts—which are big, extravagant, and most easily procured by ordering online. One version, the Fruity Spread, is topped with strawberries, blueberries, and a signature cream. Or, if you’d prefer something even sweeter, go for the crème brûlée version—a vanilla-custard beauty with caramelized sugar, packed with one of nine filling flavors. Multiple locations, thedonuthouse.com
READERS’ CHOICE
Glazed and Confused
Stanley Marketplace, 2501 Dallas St., Aurora, 303-524-9637, gcdonuts.com
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
ALL THE DETAILS YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT HOW WE SELECTED THIS YEAR’S TOP OF THE TOWN HONOREES.
How does 5280 pick Top of the Town winners?
Our reporters and editors spend months exploring the city in order to choose winners for every category—brunch, new hotel, camping spot, etc.—on the ballot. We do our research anonymously and pay for all meals and services. Our readers also select their favorites by casting votes via our online ballot. (The businesses that receive the most votes win.)
Don’t your advertisers automatically win?
No. Top of the Town recognition is based only on our research and readers’ votes; there is zero connection between advertisers and winners. The fact that some winners happen to be advertisers, or later decide to advertise in the magazine, does not influence our selections. Sure, we could make some folks happy by “selling” winners, but in the end, we’d lose a lot more than we’d gain—like our integrity and credibility with you.
How can my business get on the ballot?
Our ballot is a write-in format, meaning we don’t provide multiple-choice options. Voters can suggest whatever restaurant, store, person, or service they deem worthy for every category.
I have a business that deserves an award. How can I win?
Let people know about Top of the Town voting. Contact an editor with your tip. Encourage your customers to vote for you next year (the readers’ choice ballot opens on 5280.com in February). To help you spread the word, we can make a Top of the Town tool kit available to you; it includes downloadable marketing materials and links to our site and the ballot.
How do I vote?
Visit 5280.com (voting occurs online in February and March), sign in with your name and email address, and cast your ballot. It’s that simple.
DESSERT
EDITORS’ CHOICE
LeRoux
Most everything about this seven-month-old, European-inspired restaurant in LoDo feels romantic, from the sparkling crystal chandeliers to the deep,
