Mile High Spice

St. Kilians

One word: Pungent. Two words: Pungent and Tiny. Many words: This is a great cheese shop. The staff really know their stuff and will give you samples of any of the cheeses you are thinking of buying. I have to admit that the pâté wasn’t everything I wanted it to be, but the cheeses are wonderful and range from the mild to the really stinky. It that’s not enough, they have gelato in the back of the store (which is remarkable close to the front of the store), a selection of salamis, and varying spreads, jams, and chutneys.

Savory Spice Shop

This is an incredible spice shop. They grind all of their spices there and mix their own blends (the garam masala is especially nice). They have the regular extracts like vanilla and almond, but also rarer ones, like chocolate and cherry. Additionally, you can buy as little as half an ounce, so you don’t end up with a jar full of spice that you only use once a year. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and the smells are delicious.

Denver Bread Company

For those people who think that Wonder Bread is more corrupt than the grapple, The Denver Bread Company is the place for you. Thick, chewy crusts and a good dense crumb. This is no-nonsense bread to eat with the no-nonsense cheese you bought at St. Kilian’s

City Wine

I know, I know. Everybody tells me to go to Marczyk Fine Wines (www.marczyk.com), which I will admit is a great place. However, City Wine is closer to me and they have a wonderful selection and an incredible staff, who don’t look down their noses at you when you tell them that $15 is on the high end of what you are willing to spend. They just give great recommendations. Also, I went there more than a month after the first time I went, and the sales clerk recognized me and remembered my tastes. Really, service like that can’t be beat.