"Owned by the same family for the majority of its 70 years in business, this special-occasion institution is located a short but scenic drive up Flagstaff Mountain, where it boasts spectacular views of the Rockies — and contemporary American cuisine to rival the landscape from executive chef (and former Chopped champion) Chris Royster. It’s a splurge to be sure: Tasting menus laden with the luxurious likes of lobster, game, foie gras, truffles, and caviar start at $138 and head north from there. But they’re nothing if not memorable — especially when paired with wines from the legendary 16,000-bottle cellar." - Ruth Tobias