The 2014 Out Front Outstanding Awards
OUTSTANDING People & Personalities
Spokesperson or Advocate:
Eden Lane
The first transgender journalist on mainstream TV with a PBS arts program In Focus, Lane’s warmth and inquisitiveness have left a strong impression.
Straight Ally
Lannie Garret
Entertainer, singer and gay rights advocate Lannie of Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret keeps us enthralled with songs, costumes and a spirit of equality.
Bartender
Jelvis Stinnet
This badass Tracks bartender will first surprise you with her shock of pink hair and then will shock you with her surprisingly delicious drinks.
Bar Event Host/Hostess
Shanida Lawya
One of the most frequently-spotted drag queens in Denver, Shanida always evokes a laugh. Catch her hosting Denver’s Divas event after 9 p.m. on Sunday nights at Charlie’s.
Blogger
Paul Collanton
A blog that caters to young gay professionals is one of thousands, but a blog that lands such high-profile interviews with activists, entrepreneurs and CEO is one in a million. That’s why Out Front readers were so apt to nominate Mr. Collanton for his diligent work on gayambitionblog.com.
DJ
DJ Sinna-G
DJ Sinna-G is making waves among the DJ circuit as a House music mixing legend. Waves large enough to win Out Front readers’stamp of approval.
TV Personality
Chris Parente
Denver’s LGBT community is lucky enough to have one our own beamed into thousands of Colorado households each day in out broadcaster Chris Parente, who was also a reader favorite in 2012.
Drag Queen
Mona Lott
A comedienne staple of Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret, Mona is sure to leave everyone with good humor, if not stitches in their sides.
Entertainer
Nina Flowers
RuPaul’s Drag Race favorite Nina Flowers has never shied away from a venue and she’s performing stronger than ever. You go, girl.
Editor’s Choice: The Tah Tahs
Publisher’s Choice: Mile High Freedom Band
Politico
State Sen. Pat Steadman
Steadman has been recognized for his work on the Colorado Civil Union Act, which became law in 2013. An honoree at Out Front’s Power Party last year, the readers voted in their concurrence in this year’s OUTstanding Awards.
Local volunteer
Publisher’s Choice: Shawan Turner(GLBT Center)
OUTstanding family
Publisher’s Choice: The Simon Family
OUTSTANDING PLACES
Art Gallery
Redline
2350 Arapahoe St., Denver
Redline is not just an art gallery, but a center for learning and broadening horizons, which solidifies it on our list as the best art gallery of the year.
Religious Organization
First Unitarian
Society of Denver
1400 Lafayette St., Denver
If the idea of God scares you away from church — or maybe the idea of church scares you away from God — the progressive Unitarian Universalist community may be your home: where they walk with you on your journey but leave the destination up to you.
Publisher’s Choice: First Baptist Church of Denver
1373 Grant St., Denver
Coffee Shop
Dazbog
1201 E. 9th Ave., Denver
In the epicenter of LGBT Denver is the Dazbog on 9th and Downing. It’s no surprise readers chose the coffee shop where you can always find “family” — clicking away on their laptops, bent over a book, lost in deep conversations or stealing glances at the cute passers-by.
DayTrip Destination
Rocky Mountain National Park
The mountain park that showcases the best of Colorado’s outdoor beauty is only a 90-minute drive from Denver.
Editor’s Choice:
Denver Botanic Gardens
Concert Venue
Red Rocks
This one’s a no-brainer — who wouldn’t pick the most distinctive amphitheatre in the whole nation as the best in Colorado?
Event Venue
EXDO Events Center
1399 35th St., Denver
Not only one of the largest venues downtown, EXDO is filled with enough costumes, decorations and props (believe us, we’ve seen the storage rooms) to appease a sultan.
Local Attraction
Colorado’s Marijuana Dispensaries
DIA reports show that flying into Denver has become one of the most expensive travelling destinations in the continental US. Small wonder considering that Denver’s underground nickname has become “Little Amsterdam.” To that end, dispensaries deserve a shout out as an attraction and a destination.
Museum
Denver Art Museum
100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy., Denver
The largest art museum between Chicago and the west coast, Denver Art Museum is a shining jewel of beautiful architecture and even prettier art.
Place for a Picnic
Cheesman Park
Denver’s famous gayborhood park has been overrun in recent years by hipsters. But it still may be the queerest place in Denver on the first warm Sunday after a week of snowy spring weather.
Place to Hike
Chataqua Park, Boulder
The oldest of Boulder’s open space areas on the cusp of the cusp where the Rocky Mountains meet the plains, you can roam through aspens and ponderosa pines or climb to the top of the Flatirons and down in the span of an afternoon.
Ski Resort
Beaver Creek
This expansive ski resort along the eagle river is just a short drive passed the town of Vail. It’s known for the quirky tradition of giving fresh cookies to skiers each day, and will host the 2015 Alpine World Ski Championships.
Publisher’s Choice: Vail Mountain Resort
Most LGBT-Friendly Neighborhood
Capitol Hill
This may come as a surprise to no one, but Capitol Hill was voted the most LGBT friendly neighborhood in Colorado. With the number of gay bars and park cruising, who would nominate anywhere else?
Most LGBT-Friendly Small Town
Aspen
Host of its own Gay Ski Week, Aspen has become a perfect getaway for those well-to-do LGBT people looking for some powder and some pampering.
OUTSTANDING BARS & NIGHTLIFE
Neighborhood Bar
Charlies
900 E. Colfax Ave., Denver
No matter how ‘cool’ Denver gets, the city will never lose its history as a cow town. And that’s not a bad thing as long as Charlie’s, Denver’s own gay cowboy bar, is still around. Featuring two dance floors — one pop, one country — weekly drag shows,
$4 32-oz. pitchers of domestic beer and half-off Thursdays, its no wonder why all country roads led to Charlie’s in this year’s contest.
Drink Special
Beer Bust at the Wrangler
1700 Logan St., Denver
While the Wrangler is widely known for its legendary Sunday beer bust from 4 to 8 p.m., readers say there’s more to this Uptown establishment. Where else can a boy cruise, dance, play darts, pool or pinball all at the same time?
Publisher’s Choice: Friday Happy Hour @ Charlie’s
Gay Bar You Could Take Mom or Dad to
Hamburger Mary’s
700 E. 17th Ave., Denver
Whether you’re kicking back and drinking a cocktail or two on the luxurious patio or joining rounds of karaoke, Hamburger Mary’s is the drag queen’s castle for Denver gays and gals. Mary’s mixes good deals on food and drinks with an atmosphere prime for Denver’s drag queens and queen wannabes.
Beer Selection
Cheeky Monk
534 E. Colfax Ave., Denver
The Cheeky Monk is all about beer selection — the company’s mission statement is to share the beer the owners love.
Cocktails
The Compound
145 Broadway, Denver
If you’re ever in need of a stiff one, The Compound is always more than happy to oblige. Join them for their ever-evolving specials, you’ll never go wanting for more variety.
Dance Floor
Tracks
3500 Walnut St., Denver
Go big or go home. While it’s not Tracks’ official motto, it might as well be. The largest gay nightclub in the Mile High City doesn’t do anything small. Whether it’s a dance party, theme night or drag show, Tracks does it right.
Dance Music Selection
Club Q
3430 N. Academy Blvd.,
Colorado Springs
The premier dance destination of Colorado Springs, this bar by far has the best taste in music. May we suggest Turnt Up Thursday?
Place To Go After Close
Pete’s Kitchen
1962 E. Colfax Ave., Denver
Pete, owner of many a denver joint, really hit a home run with his 24 hour diner Pete’s Kitchen. Situated in Cap Hill, this place is perfect for anyone’s walk home/walk of shame.
BEER & BRUISES
Publisher’s Choice: “Roll” at EXDO Event Center
Place to Get Crazy
The Denver Eagle
1475 36th St., Denver
Whether it’s Thursday’s underwear night, Leather gear night every third Saturday, or liquor bust on Fridays, Denver’s Eagle does this national brand name more than enough justice as one of the edgiest of all gay bars.
Place to Meet Someone
X Bar
629 E. Colfax Ave., Denver
Did you finally dump the jerk? Good! Now head over to the X Bar — no pun intended — for a stiff cocktail or cold beer. You’re sure to meet at the love of your life, err… rebound.
Trivia Night
Denver Wrangler
Geeks Who Drink, Wed @ 8 p.m.
Monthly Party
Babes Around Denver First Friday
@ Tracks/EXDO, 3500 Walnut St.
Is there any competition? Nope. Dede Frain’s First Friday party reigns supreme for girls who like girls. Celebrating yet another successful year, First Friday has become a must event to see and be seen, not just for the ladies, but the gay boys, too. While some look forward to payday, Out Front’s readers look forward to women’s night.
18+ Event
Thursday Night at Tracks
3500 Walnut St., Denver
18-year-olds need somewhere to dance too! Affectionately nicknamed on the scene as “Milk and Cookies Night,” college students and young adults pile into one of the most well-known evenings at the largest dance club in Denver.
Bar Outside Denver
Club Q in Colorado Springs
Bar for a Casual Night Out
Black Crown Lounge
1446 S. Broadway, Denver
For a night out that does not end in regret and shame, Black Crown Lounge is there for you to drink in style and elegance. Refined cuisine, antiques and cocktails await!
Bar for Daytime Drinking
Charlie’s
900 E. Colfax Ave., Denver
Recurring Theme Party
Climax Sundays at Vinyl
1082 Broadway, Denver
It’s the top Sunday-evening destination in gay Denver from May through September — your chance to drink, dance, mingle and get rowdy on a Downtown Denver rooftop under that big Colorado sky.
Most Lesbian-Friendly Bar
Blush & Blu
1526 E. Colfax Ave., Denver
No matter your gender or orientation, Blush & Blu welcomes you with open hearts and open minds. While you’re there, feel free to do some mind opening of your own in their reading room, do a jig on their dance floor, and caffeinate yourself with a frothy cappuccino.
Best Lesbian Event
Babes Around Denver First Fridays
Small Town Watering Hole
Publisher’s Choice: Morrison Holiday Bar
“The Local Cure” • 403 Bear Creek Ave., Morrison
OUTSTANDING RESTAURANTS
Asian
Parallel 17
1600 E. 17th Ave., Denver
Your #1 Denver spot for all things pho. Parallel 17 is also good at blurring the lines of fine and casual cuisine and charging a fair price for their efforts.
Fine Dining
Vesta
1822 Blake St., Denver
Dipping sauces aren’t optional at this year’s fine dining winner — they’re the whole point of eating at Vesta. Once you try their roasted corn sauce, you’ll be hooked.
Indian
Little India
1533 Champa St. & 330 E. 6th Ave., Denver • 425 S. Teller St., Lakewood
For those looking to get lost in the east, one of the best places to start is by eating at Little India. This piece of the South Asia is sure to keep your adventurous tastebuds satiated.
Italian
Panzano
909 17th St., Denver
Food hailing from the northern parts of Italy are sure to satisfy your appetite for Italian when you came to Panzano. Expect to see all of your classic favorites as well as a few of the chef’s own specials on the menu.
Mexican
Benny’s
301 E. 7th Ave., Denver
Capitol Hill’s popular tequila joint is a favorite for Out Front readers once again. From salty margs and an affordable authentic Mexican array, to happy-hour get-togethers on the cool misty patio, Benny’s is always buzzing.
Pizza
Sexy Pizza
1018 E. 11th Avenue & 1579 S. Pearl St., Denver
Walk into this neighborhood pizza place and walk out with a pie big enough to shelter you and your friends from a rainstorm on the walk home.
Sandwiches
Difrancos
955 Lincoln St., Denver
Sandwiches galore adorn the menu at Difrancos — and no ordinary ones at that. For those looking to satisfy their fine dining palate but don’t want to stretch it too far, these sandwiches are for you.
Sushi
Hapa
2780 E. 2nd Ave. & 1514 Blake Street, Denver • 1117 Pearl St., Boulder • 5380 Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Greenwood Village
Melding traditional Japanese and American tastes with killer happy hour, Hapa is the sweet spot for an affordable lunch or dinner. Don’t miss the Multiple Orgasm roll, recommended as your meal’s finale. And it’s that good.
Vegetarian/Vegan
Watercourse
837 E. 17th Ave., Denver
Watercourse is the dining destination for our readers of the vegetarian and vegan variety. With a bright atmosphere and swanky touches like gourmet cheese platters, gaians feel good about going for a meal out.
Breakfast/Brunch
Lucile’s
275 S. Logan St., Denver
Specializing in the best breakfast you’ve ever had, Lucile’s is ideal for everyday breakfast, or a last ditch attempt at a hangover cure. Either way, you’ll be satisfied.
Lunch
Zorba’s
2626 E. 12th Ave., Denver
Specialty Greek food is hard to come by, which is why it’s always a pleasant surprise when finding one that stands out from the others. Zorba’s is one such restaurant.
Dinner
Capital Grille
1450 Larimer St., Denver
Combining exquisite taste with decadent cuisine is one way Captial Grille aims to make their mark on Denver, and let’s just say, they’re hitting
their mark.
Dessert
D Bar
1475 E. 17th Ave., Denver
The perfect getaway for all things sugar, the founding chefs have more dessert credentials than you can fathom. Take advantage of their hard work and treat your sweet tooth.
Creative Confections
Publisher’s Choice: VooDoo Donuts
Take-Out/Delivery
Jasmine’s
9400 Heritage Hills Cir. #400, Lone Tree
Jasmine’s takes the crab cakes on this one — not only is their food outstandingly delicious, but their prices are outstandingly cheap.
Best Bargain
Barracuda’s
1076 Ogden St., Denver
Better known as “that place” in Cap Hill. You can grab a quick and tasty dinner, without feeling some serious lighter wallet issues.
Best Ambiance
Beatrice & Woodsley
38 S. Broadway, Denver
The food is great, but does that even matter?! Prepare yourself to get lost within the sheer beauty as soon as you step foot inside this artistically designed restaurant.
Romantic Restaurant
Publisher’s Choice: Melting Pot • 2707 W. Main St., Littleton
BEST Overall Restaurant
Publisher’s Choice: Avenue Grill • 630 E. 17th Ave., Denver
OUTSTANDING ACTIVITIES
Date Destination
240 Union
240 Union’s slogan is “a creative grille” and it could not be more appropriate. Treat your date to an assortment of creative meals including Lobster Lollipops, Candied Radishes and Apple Cranberry Pancakes.
Fashion Event
Red Ball
This very chic event raises HIV/AIDS awareness as well as fundraises for Colorado AIDS project. Blending high fashion and styles, there is sure to be an outfit or two to tickle anyone’s fancy.
Most Creative Fundraiser
Corky’s Pool Party
This pool party for charity is sure to fill your quota for all things sex, sun and sips of Svedka.
Farmer’s Market
Cherry Creek
There’s nothing in the world quite like a high end farmer’s market. The sun, the fresh air, the fresh produce — all combine into a perfect summer’s day, and Cherry Creek’s market is the cream of the crop!
Best Annual Festival (Besides Pride)
Bolder Boulder
This 10k takes place on memorial day and is chock full of so many activities, that it cannot be described as just a 10K. This is a full days event.
LGBT Social Group
Denver Gay Professionals
Helping network anyone who identifies under the LGBT spectrum, Denver Gay Professionals aims to connect the community in an all-inclusive way.
Editor’s Choice: Lesbian Inspired Poetry, every second Wednesday at Blush and Blu.
Sports Team or League
Denver Gay & Lesbian Flag Football League
Standing for equality in sports, diversity, fun and friendship, the DGLFFL was a shoe-in for this category. Be sure to cheer them on as they prepare for the 2014 Gay Games.
Best Place to Volunteer
GLBT Community Center of Colorado
OUTSTANDING BUSINESSES, SERVICES & ORGANIZATIONS
Adult Toys
The Crypt
8 Broadway, Denver
Out Front readers favored the Crypt for adult gadgets, accessories and apparel. Aside from its vast collection of Adult DVD’s, The Crypt has got you covered if you need bondage gear, bedroom toys, lubes, condoms, lingerie and anything that is sure to satisfy or assist in your playful passions.
Bakery
Le Bakery Sensual
300 E. 6th Ave. #4, Denver
Specializing in custom designed cakes and well-known for their erotic cakes, Le Bakery Sensual has become a LGBT trademark in Colorado. Your one stop shop for all things cake, Le Bakery Sensual creates masterpieces for weddings, adult themed parties and even kids’ events.
Bookstore
Tattered Cover
Denver’s favorite indie bookstores are not feeling the sting of new book reading technology, and encourage anyone to come flip through
their pages.
LGBT Owned Business
Publisher’s Choice: Contract Furnishings, Christopher Leach
Brewery
Publisher’s Choice: Colorado Cider Company
Favorite Ride
Uber
Stylish town car service with small town affordability propelled Uber into the #1 slot of our Favorite Rides category.
Boutique
{A•(s)He}
114 S. Broadway, Denver
Gender non-conforming clothes and an even less conforming attitude are sure to greet you as you peruse this store.
Caterer
Lifestyles Catering
The gay community’s strongest catering duo were voted in as winners for Outstanding catering company, and with little wonder — the ads, the style, the friendliness can’t be beat.
Clothing/Apparel
H&M
500 16th St. #130, Denver
The boys love the fashion at H&M, and Out Front readers voted it a favorite after its highly anticipated entry on Denver’s retail market last fall. With great prices and an incredible selection, H&M assures a one-stop-shop for that sassy new street coat or a new business suit and great collared shirts in every variety.
Higher Education
Publisher’s Choice: University of the Rockies
Counselor/Therapist
Marc Coulter
The first sign of a good therapist is to see if they adopt the activity of active listening throughout their entire lifestyle. Marks credentials are enough to show how well versed he is in many of the mental problems that plague society, and is more than ready to offer his services to those who seek happier, healthier lifestyles.
Dating Website/App
Scruff
Pinpointing the latest and greatest app for gay relations is no exact science, but Out Front gave Scruff the upset over the almighty Grindr.
Dentist
Governor’s Park Dental
700 E. 9th Ave. #102, Denver
There’s your family dentist, and then there’s your family dentist. At Dr. Terry Brewick’s office in Governor’s Park you’ll certainly feel like home in what may be the most cozy and well-decorated place to get your teeth cleaned in the state.
Hairstyling
Publisher’s Choice: Henry’s Salon • 450 E. 17th Ave., Denver
Dispensary
Good Chemistry
Nothing makes a dispensary stand out quite like one that specializes in knowledge. Good Chemistry not only grows some of the best product around, but ask any of their staff a question regarding cannibanoids or grow room troubleshooting and your brain will be packed full of the pure expertise Good Chemistry provides.
Fitness Center
Colorado Athletic Club
Working out in the city has never been so beautiful or fun — Colorado Athletic Club offers amazing downtown views, life-changing wellness programs and affordability.
Florist
Babylon Floral
1223 E. 17th Ave., Denver
A mix of gardening, sculpture and photography come together at this ultra-modern, artistic floral shop.
Bed and Breakfast
Capitol Hill B&B
1207 Pennsylvania St., Denver
In “the heart of Downtown Denver” is Capitol Hill B&B, just blocks away from the state Capitol. It’s a preferred location for those who left the Mile High City to overnight on a visit home or recommend to out-of-town friends.
Mountain Hotel
Publisher’s Choice: Ritz Carlton, Bachelor Gulch • 0130 Daybreak Ridge Rd, Avon
LGBT Resource Organization
GLBT Community Center of Colorado
1301 E. Colfax Ave., Denver
The hub for services and support for the LGBT community in Colorado is a first stop when you’re coming out, searching for referrals or looking to volunteer somewhere.
Liquor Store
Argonaut
760 E. Colfax Ave., Denver
Argonaut is a bona-fide warehouse, with wide selections of beer and booze. At walking distance from the densely-packed apartments of Capitol Hill’s gayborhood, it’s a prime remedy for the tragic realization you’ve run out of liquor halfway through the party. Our readers count on it as a mainstay — and an affordable one to boot.
Local Nonprofit
Urban Peak
Urban Peak supports youth and LGBT youth who are homeless or at risk of homelessness with shelters, meals, employment support and more — our outstanding award for local nonprofit couldn’t have gone to a better cause!
Mechanic
Green Garage in LoHi
2900 Zuni St., Denver
Who wouldn’t love this high-minded garage that fine-tunes your vehicle to improve emissions and fuel efficiency? Not only great for the environment, but a money-saver too!
Place to get tested
Hey Denver
1720 North Pearl St., Denver
Testing is a necessary evil, but one that is usually accompanied by a deep sense of relief — and it’s always better to know. Why not do it at the friendliest and most convenient Denver location?
Political Organization
One Colorado
The statewide LGBT advocacy organization — and undoubtedly Colorado’s most visible LGBT political group — can be credited with leading the lobbying effort to pass a civil unions bill and for taking the lead on LGBT and transgender-competent health care.
Tattoo Parlor
Th’ink Tank
172 S. Broadway, Denver
Getting a tattoo is a permanent decision, and whether or not you put a lot of thought and creativity into them or not, the artists at Th’ink tank always will.
Movie Theater
The Mayan
110 Broadway, Denver
Our readers have a taste for independent film, voting The Mayan, a prominent spot for indie flicks in Denver, as their favorite local movie theater now four years in a row. It’s the sixth time in 11 years the famous movie stop between First and Second Avenue on Broadway has won Out Front’s OUTstanding designation.
Thrift Store
Goodwill on Broadway
21 S. Broadway, Denver
Is there anything better than finding yourself an entire new wardrobe for less than a quarter of your previous paycheck?! The rising popularity of thrifting, including it’s meteoric rise into mainstream culture thanks to Macklemore made this category hotly contested, but it’s little wonder as to why Broadway’s Goodwill won. As they say, “This isn’t your grandmother’s thrift shop.”
Personal Trainer
Rick Gusler
459 Acoma St., 80204
Gusler will pump you up! The reader’s favorite Denver gym for now four years in a row is Gusler Body Sculpting, where twinks become jocks and jocks become hulks. Gusler’s program offers more than a gym; there’s intensive coaching and nutritional counseling as well.
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