Denver's The Green Russell

Now that the off-season has arrived and many Aspen restaurants are taking well-deserved off season breaks, there’s no better time for exploring some of the standout dining options on the Front Range. Denver and Boulder have become an emerging destination for varied cuisine with continued homeruns by a handful of proven professionals, and young, experimental chefs. Taking the family on a Front Range culinary adventure may just be the oft-needed cure for those off-season blues.

Osteria Marco  
Set in a historic building, the patio of Osteria Marco is abuzz during spring and summer. I’ve eaten here several times—with and without kids—and have yet to be disappointed. The setting is only second to the menu: Delightful Italian classics, burrata with grilled Italian bread, bistecca with grilled asparagus, and the best rabbit dish I have ever had, served over a parmesan carrot brood broth. Best seat in the house: On the patio or in the window seats overlooking Larimer Square. 1453 Larimer, Denver

Euclid Hall Bar & Kitchen
With a rousing bar scene and exceptionally crafted fare, Euclid Hall serves causal, elevated pub food, such as fresh, hand-cranked sausage, poutine, and beef marrow bones. Led by celebrated chef Jennifer Jasinski (also of nearby Rioja and Bistro Vendome), Euclid pedals fresh ingredients with innovative preparations, an incredible cocktail and beer menu, and its daily special is always worth a try. Great portions, laid back atmosphere. 1317 14th Street at Larimer

The Kitchen (Upstairs)  
The Kitchen has fast become a Front Range dining juggernaut. With two fine dining locations—one in Boulder, which includes “Upstairs” (the lounge) and “Next Door” (the pub), and another location in Denver at 1530 16th Street (the entrance is on Wazee Street)—this was my favorite dining experience on a recent Denver and Boulder trip. Everything on the menu is new, fresh, and exciting, served on small share plates. They, too, feature an amazing wine, beer, and cocktail menu, which isn’t all that surprising, but the servers’ culinary knowledge makes you want to pull up a bar stool and start conversing. The Upstairs locale in Boulder has an inviting community space and an exciting, unpretentious vibe. With my two kids in tow, I sat at the community table and met several locals who gave us great recommendations and enticed my children to try an array of pickled vegetables, flat bread with la quercia prosciutto and burrata (who can resist more cheese!), and freshly made tomato soup, among other bites. I could have spent the entire night nibbling, toasting, and talking away. With large windows that overlook the bustle of Pearl Street it was the perfect dose of city life. 1039 Pearl St., Boulder

The Green Russell  
On the hunt for a custom cocktail? This underground joint—another of Frank Bonanno’s empiric locations—is about as cool as they come. When I walked in jazz was being played, while vested and mustacioed attendants scrambled behind the bar as they traded freshly squeezed juices. Classic cocktail glasses lined the bar. It’s underground, it’s experimental, and while it could use a little more creativity in the spirit selection itself (it’s no Justice Snow’s in terms of originality) the ambiance is anything but boring. 1422 Larimer, Denver

Maintain the results of a pro skincare treatment with SK-II's Essential Power Cream

Come May, most Aspenites are in search of an off-season pick-me-up for the face and body. Cold air and elevation wreak havoc on our skin during ski season, but luckily town is home to a bevy of talented estheticians. And with the Cos Bar as our go-to for the latest and greatest in skincare treatments and cosmetics, say goodbye to dull, dry skin.

First up, a visit to the Red Spa and Heaven on Earth Day Spa, both housed in the same locale (205 S. Mill St., Suite 223). Kick-start your summer look with a Micro-dermabrasian Facial (starting at $100) and Sonic Youth Facial ($100) courtesy of Colleen Delia, proprietor of the Red Spa. A longtime local, Delia is well known for nail service, waxing, and massage, yet her recent medi-spa additions are quickly garnering attention. The Micro-dermabrasian is a non-invasive procedure that gently sloughs the outer, dead, and damaged layer of the skin, paving the way for additional treatments to take immediate effect. The Sonic Youth treatment employs an anti-aging sound machine to inject Cellex-C product deeply into the skin, ideal after the Micro-dermabrasian.

Next on tap: The 75-minute Intraceuticals Oxygen Facial ($175) by Pila Xian, owner of Heaven on Earth High Altitude Day Spa. Xian has been working in the Roaring Fork Valley for years (formerly at the Viceroy Snowmass Spa) and her diverse experience in massage, facials, and body rituals packs a results-driven punch. Combine any of her facials with a 30-minute cranial massage for a rejuvenating spa journey. The Oxygen Facial alone leaves skin visibly tightened and renewed, but when applied after Delia’s Micro-dermabrasion, the results are surprisingly noticeable. Xian’s Oxygen Facial features the Aussie-derived Intraceuticals line, loaded with Vitamins E, C, and antioxidants, which deeply penetrate the surface of the skin. She utilizes a cooling oxygen wand that is applied with light pressure, allowing the chosen brightening, clarifying, or hydrating serum to take effect. Expect immediate results with this treatment; we received inquiries from friends and colleagues as to “what we’ve been doing.”

Now that your skin is radiant, two potent skincare lines will extend your refreshed look. Founded by former Aspenite Julie Macklowe, vbeautés “It Kit” is essential for off-season travel. Housed in a chic gunmetal case, five on-the-go sized products feature her patented vComplex, an effective cellular concentrate derived from Swiss Alpine Rose botanical technology. The result? Effective antioxidant, anti-aging products that help restore a youthful glow. The It Kit ($165) features the Undercover Agent Anti-Wrinkle DNA Protection Serum, Rub Off Facial Exfoliator, Evidence Eraser Foaming Cleanser, Buying Time Everyday Cream, and our personal favorite, the Eye Never Nourishing Repair Eye Cream. And if that weren’t enough, Macklowe’s new anti-age, hydrating Lip Spreads work wonders at high-altitude and come in an array of spunky spring shades ($28.50; Cos Bar, 418 E. Cooper Ave.)

Lastly, we’ve long been a fan of SK-II, and the luxe line recently launched two new moisturizers: The Essential Power Cream ($205) and Essential Power Rich Cream ($250). Both are an Aspenite’s anti-altitude skin soldiers. Packed with extract from the Siberian Ginseng root, a plant-derived powerhouse culled from South Korea’s JeJe Island, both of these creams work wonders on dry skin, and will get you ready for town’s busy summer event circuit in no time. The new moisturizers are thick (which we like here in the mountains) but not overly so, and both battle fine lines, too.  

Special Appearance: Colorado Lt. Governor Joe Garcia
Friday, May 17, 8 a.m.
Colorado’s Lt. Governor Joe Garcia will kick off the weekend at the Basalt Elementary School in celebration of local education foundation Summit 54, Summer Advantage, and the RE-1 School District. The organizations are being honored for their contributions toward early literacy. Locals Tony and Terri Caine founded Summit 54 to bring educational opportunities to the underserved, and Governor John Hickenlooper has declared May 17 as “Summer Learning Access Day.” Refreshments will be served at 8 a.m.; presentation follows at 8:30 a.m. Basalt Elementary School, 151 East Cottonwood Drive, Basalt, 970-384-5800

Family Fun at the ARC
Saturday, May 18, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Celebrating its 10-year anniversary, the Aspen Recreation Center is hosting the “Aspen Free Family Fun Fair,” an afternoon of clowns, face painting, Sumo wrestling, magicians, bouncy houses, batting cages, and more. Don’t miss the 2:30 p.m. prize giveaway. Aspen Recreation Center, 0861 Maroon Creek Rd., 970-925-5776

Ride for the Pass
Saturday, May 18, 10 a.m.
The anticipated early season kick-off to Aspen’s summer, the 19th annual Ride for the Pass will lure 600 local and visiting riders to our beautiful backyard. A fundraiser for the Independence Pass Foundation, the steep yet gorgeous ride gains 2000 vertical feet (from 9,400 to 11,400 feet), and takes participants from the winter access gate to the ghost town of Independence. A festive after party includes myriad giveaways, including a free bike. Race starts at Colorado Hwy. 82, Mile Marker 48. To register, visit independencepass.org

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN BAYER

Zac Brown Band highlights the BottleRock Napa Valley musical lineup

Any local conversation during the month of May inevitably involves the favorite topic of off-season travel. Beach, surf, sun, desert—warm locales are what Aspenites desperately crave after a long ski season. Mix in Napa wine country and live music? Consider it booked. Many Aspenites are traveling further West to the inaugural BottleRock Napa Valley festival held May 9-12. A four-day affair with stellar music, vintners, culinary cache, and comedy, this one-stop-shop for California entertainment is right up our alley.

"This is a festival for music-lovers with a palate," says BottleRock co-founder Bob Vogt. "BottleRock offers festival-goers the best in Napa Valley food, wine, and beer.  Where else can you see this many musicians and comedians and have access to shaded areas, seating, and restrooms? [It] has something for everybody!”

First, the musical lineup: Leading bands include The Black Keys, Kings of Leon, The Black Crowes, Jane’s Addiction, Zac Brown Band, The Shins, The Avett Brothers, The Flaming Lips, Ben Harper & Charlie Musselwhite, Alabama Shakes, and Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, among others. With more than 80 bands performing over four days, the musical gamut crosses nearly all genres and will certainly pack a loud punch. Held on three stages over 26 acres of the Napa Valley Expo grounds, the music alone is worth tapping those frequent flier points.

Next, the epicurean extravaganza.  Napa and Sonoma Valley are a top escape during an Aspen off-season; the Roaring Fork Valley claims a surprising amount of master sommeliers and town has a serious obsession with wine. On tap at Bottle Rock are more than 50 wineries and artisan brewers, with featured vintners including Silver Oak, Miner Family, Rombauer, St. Supery, Grgich Hills, Beaulieu Vineyard, and Hahn Family Wines, to name a few. Acclaimed chef and restaurateur Cindy Pawlcyn will helm the festival’s culinary execution, sharing the spotlight with celebrity chefs Masaharu Morimoto, Ken Frank, and Todd Humphries. The list of participating Napa eateries and food purveyors is equally of note, including Mustards Grill, Oenotri, ZuZu, Grace’s Table, The Girl & the Fig, Azzurro Pizzeria and Enoteca, Tra Vigne, Fish Story, Farmstead, The Model Bakery, C Casa, Barbers Q, and Gott’s Roadside.

And let’s not forget there’s comedy, to boot. In the midst of all this wining, dining, and dancing, the country’s top comics promise plenty of laughter, too. Jim Gaffigan, Demetri Martin, Aasif Mandvi, Anthony Jeselnik, Tig Notaro, Jim Breuer, Greg Behrendt, Wyatt Cenac, Rob Delaney, and Kristen Schaal, among others, ensure no dull moments.

Given the staggering lineup of musical acts, Aspen Peak asked Nicholas Allen, founder of Carte Blanche Wine and Soulshine Music LLC, for some festival and wine cliff notes. Following are his Top 5 “pairings” of rock and wine, focused on micro-cult wines crafted by acclaimed vintners that have mastered the art of bottling terroir. If you can’t make it to Napa with us, at least you can create a playlist, sample some vino, and pretend you’re there.

1. The Black Keys & Carte Blanche 2010 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. “The Black Keys are one of the best, if not, top, acts on the national touring circuit,” says Allen. “I’d pair this complex rock ‘n roll with a big red—the CB Cabernet is layered, surprising, with big notes, and a real powerful driving force behind it, just like the band.”

2. Jane’s Addiction & 2010 Keplinger Sumo. “If you’ve seen front man Perry Farrell perform, then you know that a bottle of red is most likely in his hand. I’d suggest he drink the Keplinger Sumo--a spicy, bold red that gets you fired up, and can perfectly handle the band’s hard-hitting rock.”

3. Zac Brown Band & Morlet Family Vineyards Couer de Vallée. “It's such a nice blend of cabernet culled from the top to the bottom of Napa Valley, and Zac Brown's music is such a nice collaboration of musical instruments and different musical genres, from country, to bluegrass, to reggae, to rock ‘n roll!”

4. The Black Crowes & 2010 Macauley Cabernet Franc, To Kalon Vineyard. “The Crowes consistently stay in the realm of blues-driven rock ‘n roll, but both the band and this wine offer so much more than one varietal or style could have ever been thought possible. Wines and acts like these are extremely rare, intricate, and passionate, and need to be embraced for the long haul.”

5. Alabama Shakes & Bure Family Wines 2010 Duration. “A perfect pairing for Alabama Shakes; it's got that power and elegance from the cabernet, and that depth and extra ‘umph’ (fruit) and nuance from the Cabernet Franc. These two—the band and the wine—will be around for a long time. Bure is becoming a staple Napa wine for cult-boutique collectors, and The Shakes are becoming a sought after staple on the music scene. I dread another ill-fated and ill-timed loss of talent such as Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and Amy Winehouse. Like the finish on the Duration wine, I hope to see longevity in their musical careers.”

For BottleRock Napa Valley festival passes, pricing, and additional information visit bottlerocknapavalley.com 

Remède Spa at the St. Regis Aspen

For you fortunate Aspenites that have been whisked away to sand and sun, more power to you, but for those of us left in town during mud season, not to fret, we’ve scouted some serious local R&R. The Rèmede Spa at the St. Regis Aspen features fabulous off-season deals, including a customized massage for $115 (usually $165). Given this perfect excuse to visit this haven of tranquility, if you can’t fly somewhere, treat yourself regardless. 

The spa experience starts with an evaluation of problem areas with Remede’s exceptionally trained therapists (Michael Ann is highly recommended), followed by a selection of desired aromatherapy oils to be used during the treatment. Topped with a paraffin foot massage and scalp massage—with or without a Moroccan Oil scalp treatment (we say go for it, considering high altitude effects on hair)—this 60- or 90-minute spa journey is spot on. Post-treatment, enjoy a glass of sparking wine while recharging in the Oxygen Lounge.

Following are some additional incentives to hit the Regis during the month of May. In fact, why not check in and treat yourself to a whole weekend? After a long and successful winter, you’ve earned it.

Wine & Dine
New Executive Chef Didier Elena of the Chefs Club by FOOD&WINE is offering a three-course menu for just $32. Taste such dishes as the Roasted Beef Bone Marrow with Potato Mousseline and Sautéed Escargot or the Halibut and Spring Vegetable Tempura with Seared Polenta and Béarnaise Sauce. Open Tuesday-Saturday. 970-429-9581

Beer & Burgers
Beginning May 1 (noon to close) in the chic Shadow Mountain Lounge, order a Beer & Burger for $20.13. The signature St. Regis burger (horseradish aioli, Lamborn Bloomers cheese, pancetta, tomato, and lettuce on a brioche bun) is complemented with your choice of cold draft beer. Yum.

Benny & Mary Sundays
Every Sunday in May (7 a.m.-11 a.m.), Buttermilk Restaurant will feature “Benny & Mary Sundays,” with $16 Eggs Benedict and $10 Bloody Marys. The Bloody Mary menu includes the resort’s signature Downhill Snapper, in addition to famous concoctions from St. Regis properties in New York, Houston, and London. Benedict offerings include Traditional (English muffin, Canadian bacon, hollandaise and hashbrowns), Southwestern (beef-green chili, charred scallion hollandaise, petit green salad), Swiss (roesti potato, sauteed mushrooms, gruyere fondue, petit green salad), “Louis” (crab, shrimp, hollandaise, hash browns), and “Garden” (English muffin, grilled veggies, pesto, hash browns). St. Regis Resort Aspen, 315 E. Dean St., 970-920-3300

The Little Nell is poised to share its warm hospitality and delicious food with the next generation of Aspen cooks this summer by partnering with chef, cookbook author, and Aspen resident Helen DeFrance to teach kids, ages 4 years and older, basic cooking skills.

 “Comfy in the Kitchen,” a series of four cooking classes for kids “will feature lessons on how to create both savory and sweet items,” says DeFrance, who will help guide kids on the importance of balanced meals as she also trains them how to properly use cooking tools and stir up a new dish in each class. “It’s all about being comfortable in the kitchen. Kids will learn to follow recipes, measure, mix and chop, and they will bring home fun and delicious recipes the whole family will love.”

DeFrance is no stranger to the kitchen or in helping children find their way around it. She has been teaching children’s cooking classes for 10 years and discovering and encouraging mini chefs in the making, including creating and running the “Kitchen Full of Kids” program at the acclaimed Blackberry Farm in Tennessee. She is also the author of two cookbooks At Home Café: Gatherings for Family and Friends and At Home Café: Great Food and Fun for Everyone.

Helen credits her dynamic, hands-on approach to cooking with kids in part to her education background, where her emphasis was on Montessori training, a method of teaching based on hands-on, experiential learning. Helen understands the importance of engaging children in the learning process and brings this concept into the kitchen. Her cooking classes not only involve children in every aspect of planning the family meal, but also teach them the source of the ingredients and the steps it takes to make a successful meal.

Throughout the series, DeFrance will be joined by special guests from The Little Nell kitchen, including Pastry Chef Danielle Riesz and Executive Chef Robert McCormick.

Comfy in the Kitchen cooking classes will be held at The Little Nell from 3:30-5 p.m. on May 24, June 19, July 11, and August 21. Each class will feature a different theme.

Cost is $30 per class, or the entire series can be purchased in advance for $100. Space is limited and is open to all. To reserve a spot, call PJ Johnson at 970-920-6360.

Thea Djordjadze's Spoons are Different (installation view at Gallery Sprüth Magers, London), 2012

Wildwood Kentucky Derby Benefit 
Friday, May 3, 6 p.m.
A benefit for the popular Wildwood pre-school in Aspen, this festive event features dancing, dinner, drinks, and a live auction at the Limelight Lodge in downtown Aspen. Wear your Kentucky Derby finest (ladies, an excuse to beak out those hats, and men, when else can you sport seer suckers in Aspen?) 355 S. Monarch St.

On Display: Aspen Art Museum
Friday, May 3
One of the most anticipated shows of the summer season opens at the Aspen Art Museum. “Rob Pruitt: An American Folk Artist” is the artist’s first solo museum survey. Simultaneously, work by Thea Djordjadze marks her first North American museum solo exhibition. Pruitt is known for his unique spin on pop culture, while Djordjadze is acclaimed for sculptural installations. Both are on view through July 14. 590 N. Mill St., 970-925-8050

On Stage: PAC3
Saturday, May 4, 8 p.m.
Grateful Dead fans are in luck, as the Rocky Mountain Grateful Dead Review hits Carbondale this weekend. Featuring Rob Eaton from Dark Star Orchestra, this show will draw locals and visitors to the Roaring Fork Valley. Tickets $10-15. 520 S. Third St., Carbondale, 970-925-1663

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Chefs Club at St. Regis Resort.

 

Chefs Club at St. Regis Resort.

 

Chefs Club at St. Regis Resort.

 

Chefs Club at St. Regis Resort.

 

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After a beautiful yet long winter, most Aspenites have caught a serious case of Wanderlust, yearning for sand, sun, and margaritas. If you’re just returning from the beach, or if May calls for a staycation, town’s restaurants are featuring serious off-season deals. Herewith, what not to miss:

Jimmy’s an American Restaurant & Bar
This local hot spot may have top tequilas and the best crab cakes west of the Mississippi, but the month of May also features Thai specials and a Memorial Day Crawfish Boil (May 27). Show off your salsa moves on Saturday nights. 205 S. Mill St., 970-925-6020

Chefs Club at St. Regis Resort
Featuring cuisine by a rotating roster of Food&Wine magazine’s Best New Chefs, and helmed by new executive chef Elena Didier, the restaurant is featuring a special off-season prix fixe of three courses for $32. 315 E. Dean St., 970-429-9581

L’Hostaria Ristorante
This Italian eatery barely has an off-season, considering the bar and restaurant is typically packed year-round. And, as if you need another reason to visit well-known bartender Scotty, check out new live music on Tuesday nights. If booking a rezzie inside the restaurant, a $33 prix fixe can be lassoed during the month of May. 620 E. Hyman Ave., 970-925-9022

Traffic frontman Dave Mason

Ranching Rules 
Friday, April 27, 1-5 p.m.
A class led by Rock Bottom Ranch farmer and chef Jason Smith, this fun course is a unique way to spend a Saturday during off-season, and offers fun for the kiddos, too. Learn how to raise your own chickens with backyard ranching ($35/$25 ACES members). aspennature.org

Last Call: Aspen Highlands
Saturday, April 27 & Sunday, April 28
Ski season officially comes to a close this weekend, with Aspen Highlands throwing the last hoorah on Saturday and Sunday. If you missed last week’s end of season bash, here’s another excuse to sport vintage ski ensembles. Given the recent snowfall, the season will end with a bang. Aspen Highlands; aspensnowmass.com

On Stage: Dave Mason
Friday, April 26, 8 p.m.
Fan of legendary band Traffic? Hit this intimate concert with front man and Rock ‘n Roll Hall-of-Famer Dave Mason. In a rare acoustic performance, Mason will play such hits as  “Feelin’ Alright” and “Shoouldn’t Have Took More Than You Gave.” He’ll be joined by top-notch vocalist Suzanne Paris. 450 S. Galena St., 970-544-9800; bellyupaspen.com

Pila Xian, owner of Heaven and Earth day spa

We all know eating a balanced, nutritious diet supports your overall wellness and health. Lesser known are which foods can specifically target the health of your skin. Pila Xian, founder of Aspen’s Heaven on Earth Day Spa, and a licensed esthetician and cooking enthusiast, divulges a healthy recipe for vibrant skin.

If ski season is the time of year to nosh on comfort foods, then mud season is the time to detox for spring beach vacations. But detoxing doesn’t have to call for a strict liquid diet or juicing. I prefer a diet of whole (i.e. non-processed) foods and eating soup or a smoothie for the last meal of the day. Following is great tasting and good-for-you spring recipe that to leave you healthier in body, mind, and spirit.

Nori Veggie Wraps
Serves 6

This recipe uses Nori as a taco wrapper. Best known for its use in sushi rolls, Nori is unbelievably good for your skin’s health. One sheet of Nori has the same amount of Omega-3s as two avocados. You can replace the Nori with Napa cabbage or kale (if using kale, massage the leaves to make the kale tender and pliable). Quinoa is an excellent grain choice because of its high protein content (tip: Decrease the amount of suggested water when cooking quinoa and mushy, water-logged quinoa is a thing of the past).

I serve dinners family style, plating all the veggies and quinoa on one big platter. It makes for a beautiful presentation with colorful vegetables.

2 cups quinoa
5 tablespoons walnut oil, divided
1 lb. wild mushroom mix, sliced
1 butternut squash, diced
2 bunches spinach
3 carrots, julienned
2 tablespoons water
2 red peppers, julienned
1 package of Nori, sheets cut in half

Rinse quinoa. Bring 1 1/2 cups water and quinoa to a boil. Cover, and reduce temperature to low. Cook for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Set aside.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake butternut squash drizzled with 2 tablespoons of the walnut oil on a lined baking dish for 30-45 minutes, turning to ensure carmelization on all sides. Set aside.

In a large sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of walnut oil over medium heat, sauté mushrooms until soft, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat, using the same pan, adding additional walnut oil if necessary, add kale and water, cover. Stirring occasionally until done, about 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, sauté red peppers over medium heat with walnut oil until desired doneness, about 7-10 minutes.

Thai Cashew Sauce
Cashews are used to replace dairy in sauces and dips with this recipe. Soaking the cashews overnight makes for the creamiest sauce. If you’re limited in time, chop the cashews into smaller pieces when soaking. To make a dip for crudités, simply add less coconut milk. Cashews are mild in taste, so play around with different herbs and spices to make a variety of dips.

1 1/2 cup raw cashews
1/2 inch piece of ginger
1 green onion
1 garlic clove
1/2 jalapeno (deseeded, unless you like it hot)
1 handful cilantro
1 cup coconut milk

Cover the cashews with hot water by at least 2 inches because the cashews expand. Soak raw, unsalted cashew in hot water for at least 2 hours. Drain and rinse cashews.

In a food processor pulse together the ginger, green onion, garlic, jalapeno and cilantro until finely chopped. Add cashews and pulse again until smooth. *You can also serve this as a dip with crudités platter.

For additional beauty tips from Pila, including her recent blog on how to wash your face correctly, the essential first step to proper skincare, visit heavenonearthaspen.com/blog