If you've found yourself swept off your feet recently by an extra-crisp baguette or focaccia with just the right amount of oil and rosemary, there's a good chance it was made by Grateful Bread. This family-owned bakery in Golden supplies artisan loaves to a list of metro-area eateries that reads like a who's-who of the restaurant industry, including a disproportionate number of Best of Denver winners. The bakery's operation is primarily wholesale, but it opens its doors to the public several times a year, so you can buy sticky buns and jalapeño-cheddar pretzels to eat now, and levain and ciabatta to pop in the freezer for later. Don't miss the chewy quinoa, which toasts to perfection for a protein-packed start to the day. Check the bakery's website for specifics on upcoming retail days and a list of Denver markets selling a limited selection of baguettes and ciabatta.
Readers' choice: Grateful Bread Company