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Favorite Places
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Black Sheep
- 2106 E. Platte Ave. (map)
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Central
227-7625
- (based on 10 user reviews)
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Front Range Barbeque $
- 2330 W. Colorado Ave. (map)
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Old Colorado City
632-2596
- (based on 5 user reviews)
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The Leechpit
- 802 N. Nevada Ave. (map)
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Downtown
634-3675
- (based on 1 user review)
Best of 2012: Local Venue for Live Music
Whether it's the yearly two-night run by Tech N9ne or shows by big-name artists like Foxy Shazam and Cannibal Corpse, the Black Sheep has earned its keep as Colorado Springs' perennial live music mecca. A non-stop winner in this category since 2006, the vaguely dungeon-like Platte Avenue mainstay is owned by Soda Jerk Presents, the Boulder-based company that also books Denver's Marquis Theater and Summit Music Hall. All of which makes this all-ages venue an attractive draw for national touring acts. "We regularly bring in bands that no one would ever expect to play here," says general manager Chris Huffine. "At least once a week, someone at a show will say to me, 'Wow, how did you get this band to come to Colorado Springs?'" — Bill Forman
Best Of 2012: Neighborhood Restaurant: West
Best Of 2012: Barbecue
If you're like me, this will sum up your relationship with Front Range Barbeque: Came across it one day looking for good, cheap eats; had an amazing meal on a cozy patio listening to bluegrass; fell in love; now consider it the restaurant for entertaining visiting friends and family. It's homey, without the kitsch, and everyone seems happy to be there, even the staff. Brian Fortinberry opened up shop 13 years ago in the home of a former sushi joint. He and his brother are from Alabama, which armed them not only with a love for Southern cuisine, but also priceless family recipes. "That's what we know, that's what we are used to," he says. "We wanted to have a local place, a place where friends can hang out." Add to it their laid-back ethos, and you have all the ingredients for success. — Chet Hardin
Bites 2013: Riblet Plate
Think of Front Range's riblet offering simply as a big-ass plate of Southern goodness. Tender, slow-cooked St. Louis rack ends sport a light char but copious hickory and mesquite flavor. They're served naked (got your attention) so you can choose your own house sauce tableside: Mustard Wine, Sweet n' Spicy or our favorite, the Original Tangy. ($16 includes choice of two sides)
Best Of 2012: Vintage Clothing Store
It's not been two years since Adam Leech's Pit moved to its current North Nevada Avenue location, closer to Colorado College and its throngs of post-ironic retro-chic hunters. Too close, perhaps — apparently Leech will be relocating again in the near future, as Colorado College doesn't intend to renew the lease on the property. It hasn't seemed to damage his confidence, though, as he notes that his store doesn't only sell clothes: "I would challenge anybody to an arm-wrestling contest who claims there's a better stock of vinyl in Colorado Springs." And Leech doesn't stop there. "I'd contend we've got Denver beat, too," he adds. "On a good day." — Wyatt Miller
