A:It's always a good idea to eat at a few real joints before you head to the land of fur-lined forks. Try M&D's BBQ and Fish Palace (2004 East 28th Avenue, 303-296-1760) for some killer 'cue and the town's best sweet potato pie. For burgers, check out My Brother's Bar (2376 15th Street, 303-455-9991), a quintessential Denver joint that serves up classical music and fat, juicy burgers. And while Emil-Lene's Sirloin House (16000 Smith Road, Aurora, 303-366-6674) may seem closer to Kansas than Vail, the steaks Colorado-grown prime beef kissed with a pat of butter and cooked over Kingsford charcoal are as choice as the casual, roadhouse atmosphere.