Every year, Westword’s Best of Denver Awards shine a spotlight on the very best businesses, restaurants, and cultural hotspots that make Denver truly unique. The 2025 edition continues this tradition, honoring the local favorites that have won the hearts of the city’s residents. From the best brunch spots to top-tier breweries and, of course, the Best Candy Store, these awards showcase the businesses that define the Mile High experience.
Best Coffee Shop: Wake and Take Coffee Shop ☕
Wake and Take Coffee Shop in Aurora is a hidden gem for coffee lovers who crave quality and convenience. ☕🚗 This drive-thru-focused spot delivers expertly crafted espresso drinks, smooth cold brews, and delicious pastries—all with lightning-fast service that keeps your day moving. Whether you’re grabbing a bold latte on your morning commute or a refreshing matcha latte for an afternoon pick-me-up, Wake and Take ensures every sip is top-notch. Plus, their friendly baristas and local vibe make it more than just a coffee stop—it’s a daily ritual worth savoring. 🌅🚀 #StayCaffeinated
Best Place To Get A Warm Beer On Purpose: Hogshead Brewery 🍻
While Hogshead Brewery has expanded its tap list in recent years to include more mainstream styles, its owners remain deeply committed to the craft of British cask ales. Their cask lineup, featuring modestly named styles like “bitter” and “mild,” is served at cellar temperature—cool enough to be refreshing but not so cold that it mutes the beer’s complex flavors. Using only natural carbonation to push the beer from the cask, the process creates a rich, creamy head that highlights just how flavorful English ales can be. These traditional, lower-ABV styles are perfect for a proper session of chin-wagging over a few Chin Wag ESBs—without the worry of a rough drive home.
Best Suburban Food Truck Corner: West 52nd Avenue and Marshall Street, Arvada 🥟
This southeast Arvada corner is home to three outstanding Mexican food trucks. Leading the way is Don Carlos #3, the 2023 Taco Tuesday champion. While its award-winning tacos have gone up from 99 cents to $1.75 on Tuesdays, they’re still a bargain—especially the incredible al pastor straight from the spit. The carnitas, chicken, and housemade chorizo are also top-notch.
Across the lot, Barbacoa El Oso Estilo Chihuahua specializes in rich, flavorful barbacoa, available in burritos, tacos, quesadillas, gorditas, and tortas—plus their consomé is a must-try, hearty enough to be a meal on its own.
Just across the street, Ahi Con Oscar offers a huge selection of breakfast and lunch burritos, along with a variety of tacos.
With three distinct styles and flavors, this unassuming corner is truly a taco lover’s paradise!
Best Candy Store: Sisters Sweet Treats 🍬💕
No celebration is complete without something sweet, and Denver has officially spoken—Sisters Sweet Treats is the Best Candy Store of 2025! Located in Littleton, this charming shop has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of locals with its handcrafted chocolates, nostalgic candies, and delightful seasonal treats. Whether you’re looking for a custom Easter basket, live-spun cotton candy for an event, or the trendiest viral chocolates, Sisters Sweet Treats delivers joy with every bite. This award is a testament to the love and support of their amazing customers who make the magic happen every day!
Celebrate Local Excellence
Westword’s Best of Denver 2025 highlights what makes our city so special—its people, businesses, and thriving local scene. Whether you’re indulging in award-winning sweets or sipping on expertly brewed coffee, be sure to support these incredible businesses that make Denver shine!
