Winner

The Empire Lounge & Restaurant
www.theempirerestaurant.com
816 Main St., Louisville
303.665.2521

The Empire Lounge & Restaurant

After less than two years in business, The Empire Lounge & Restaurant has already become a Louisville fixture. “What we tried to create was a neighborhood restaurant filled with regulars,” says co-owner and general manager Brendan McManus. “And that’s what we’ve accomplished.” Indeed, locals have been flocking to The Empire since it opened, clamoring for its simultaneously accessible and sophisticated fare, impressive wine selection, classic cocktails and lounge atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for the most sublime deviled eggs you’ve ever eaten, melt-in-your-mouth gourmet delights like the Colorado lamb and onion brochette, fresh and unique salads, or a berry crumble that would make Granny blush, The Empire Lounge & Restaurant is your ideal destination. And you can feel good about what you’re eating. “Food-wise, we have as much local and organic product as we can,” explains McManus. The menu changes frequently and there are daily specials to highlight the seasonality of the food.

Runner Up

Efrain’s Mexican
www.efrainsrestaurant.com
101 E. Cleveland St., Lafayette, 303.666.7544
Efrain’s II: 1630 N. 63rd St., Boulder, 303.440.4045
Efrain’s III: 451 S. Pratt Pkwy., Longmont, 720.494.0777