While not all award predictions came to fruition, those honored at this year’s Michelin ceremony certainly deserved the accolades. The prestigious list now features 50 restaurants across Denver, Boulder, Vail, Beaver Creek, Aspen, and Snowmass Village.
However, all initiates to the third edition of the Colorado guide appear exclusively in the metro area, and many are very recent newcomers to the scene. Certain types of cuisine also fared well including omakase experiences, elevated New American fare, and, to the credit of one exceptional chef, upscale Mexican. To experience the excitement firsthand, book a table at these Michelin additions.
The First Two-Star Restaurant in Colorado
The Wolf’s Tailor
Helmed by the acclaimed Id Est hospitality group and chef Taylor Stark, this Sunnyside restaurant is the first in Colorado to receive two Michelin stars. Its tasting menu reflects both global travels and the terroir of our region, with options like local bison and trout roe among the seasonal offerings. Careful sourcing occurs alongside creative substitutions, such as cryo-concentrated apple cider rather than imported citrus. These and other zero-waste initiatives allowed The Wolf’s Tailor to also retain its green star, awarded exclusively to establishments demonstrating exceptional sustainability. 4058 Tejon St., Denver, thewolfstailor.com
One-Star Restaurant Additions
Kizaki
Thanks to the visionary Kizaki brothers, no part of the city is better known for Japanese dining than Den Corner. In receiving a Michelin star, the latest sister concept to Sushi Den and others has gained national recognition. This eponymous omakase counter is a solo concept from chef Toshi that specializes in edomae-style sushi. Step inside the new Denchu building to savor sea perch sashimi, fatty tuna hand rolls, and king salmon garnished with golden trout roe. Kaiseki dishes and delicate desserts add to the twenty-course menu ($225). 1551 S. Pearl St., Denver, kizakiden.com
Margot
After years of pop-up dinners, this one star recipient also found a home within the Denchu building on South Pearl Street. A permanent counter has allowed chef Justin Fulton to exercise his full range of creativity, showcased in elegant plates of Parisian gnocchi, dry-aged duck breast with cherries and truffle jus, and seasonal rotations vibrant in color and flavor. Though the contemporary American menu ($165) often sees updates, all diners can expect to witness Margot’s signature olive oil brioche rise, then return baked to a golden hue. Plus, diners can choose from the intimate tasting menu or a la carte in the shared bar area. 1551 S. Pearl St., Denver, margotdenver.com
Mezcaleria Alma
Chef Johnny Curiel of Alma Fonda Fina is on a well-deserved winning streak. He debuted Mezcaleria Alma next door to the acclaimed flagship restaurant in November and now, both hold their own Michelin stars. As its name implies, this newer addition to LoHi pours well over a hundred agave expressions straight and into brilliant craft cocktails. Pair these with seafood-centric small plates ($16-$32) that capture the culinary innovation of Mexico City, such as red snapper ceviche, serrano-spiced tuna crudo, and a sublime blue corn tostada topped with dry-aged toro. 2550 15th St., Denver, mezcaleriaalma.com
A Bib Gourmand Addition
Cozobi Fonda Fina
Another concept from chef Curiel, Cozobi Fonda Fina debuted in Boulder last July and is the year’s only Bib Gourmand addition. The award signifies exceptional value and indeed, the menu hits the mark. Named in honor of the Zapotec god of corn, the restaurant nixtamalizes Mexico-imported maize into a range of dishes, including oyster mushroom quesadillas ($17) and sopes de cochinita made with Yucatan-style heritage pork ($13 during its weekday happy hour). While a house recipe is often the default, give attention to the ingenious avocado or sweet corn margarita offerings ($15). 909 Walnut St., Boulder, cozobifondafina.com
Recommended Restaurant Additions
Alteño
With Alteño receiving recommended status, Curiel made a clean sweep at this year’s Michelin awards. His fourth concept premiered within the Clayton Hotel in Cherry Creek this past March, augmenting the city’s selection of upscale Mexican fare. The menu pays tribute to the chef’s Jaliscan Highland roots, with agave-roasted sweet potato ($15), jalapeño cornbread with huitlacoche butter ($19), and boldly seasoned tacos among its rustic dishes. A partner in life and business, Kasie Curiel supported the creation of the beverage program featuring raicilla and mezcal-based cocktails. 249 Clayton St., Denver, altenorestaurant.com
Ukiyo
This Michelin-recommended restaurant ranks among the best omakase experiences in Denver, with chef Phraseuth ‘Paul’ Sananikone unifying his Laotian heritage and traditional Japanese techniques. Other global influences appear on the seasonal menus ($185), which have recently spotlighted focaccia bread with tom yum butter, citrusy mikan hamachi, and raw black seabass served on a shiso leaf with Peruvian pepper sauce. Find this speakeasy-like counter down an alleyway near Larimer Square. 1317 14th St., Denver, ukiyoomakase.com
Wildflower
Located within the newly renovated Gravity Haus Denver Hotel, this Michelin recommendation features a plant-forward menu crafted by chef Aiden Tibbetts. Herbs and edible flowers from his family’s local garden, regenerative grains, and premium ingredients from around the globe appear in seasonal shared plates. Order à la carte or opt for a customizable tasting menu, noting standout dishes like the focaccia with peach chutney ($8), kohlrabi croquetas ($16), and moulard duck entree featuring smoked apple and beet tartare ($48). 3638 Navajo St., Denver, opentable.com/r/wildflower-denver
