Aspen

The Scene
Fashionistas who can't afford to jet to the Rockies get close enough at this wintry party scene for tapas and cocktails. Twenty-somethings pose under the bar's icy deer head sculptures and in the dining area's aspen grove, which is conjured by walls of foggy forest murals and frosted glass etchings, replete with a kitschy fire pit. Deep semi-circle booths suit canoodling couples as well as partying groups.

The Food
The trendy atmosphere anticipates a menu of globally inspired tapas. Professional servers--who ditch the act to party post-shift--recommend three or four small plates per person, when two will do. Smokey bison mini-burgers tap the Colorado spirit, served very rare with cheddar and bacon. A quesadilla melting pot of duck, goat cheese, fresh salsa and sage-walnut pesto excels in flavor, while a dry, bland mushroom tamale falls short. For dessert, soak in the bar scene with a spiked hot chocolate called Apres Ski.