James Beard Award-winning chef Caroline Glover has built a reputation on simplicity, seasonality, and soul. Her restaurant, Annette in Aurora, Colorado, continues to be a standout in the culinary world, impressing diners and critics alike with its intimate atmosphere and modern take on comfort food.
Opened in 2017 in Aurora’s Stanley Marketplace, Annette has earned a loyal following for its thoughtful menu and warm, welcoming service. Glover’s philosophy is straightforward: cook with care, honor ingredients, and serve people like family.
A Restaurant Built on Heart and Heritage
Caroline Glover named Annette after her great-aunt, a woman who taught her that home-cooked meals are an act of love. This spirit of generosity and connection is clear in every dish on the menu. From house-made pickles to wood-fired entrées, Glover’s approach is focused on craftsmanship and comfort.
What sets Annette apart is its focus on slow food — a return to intentional cooking using local ingredients and minimal waste. This dedication has earned it a place among Colorado’s most celebrated restaurants, and even national recognition from platforms like the James Beard Foundation.
Consistency That Wows Critics and Guests
One of the hardest things in the restaurant business is maintaining excellence over time. Yet Annette has proven that it’s more than a fleeting culinary trend. Glover and her team consistently update the menu based on the season, while keeping fan favorites available. Regulars rave about the grilled pork collar, smoked trout toast, and buttermilk panna cotta.
The restaurant’s open kitchen design also adds a level of transparency and trust — diners can literally see their meals being created. Glover believes that this honesty is key to building community and elevating the dining experience.
An Award-Winning Chef with a Purpose
Caroline Glover didn’t become a chef for fame — she became one to make people feel seen, nourished, and cared for. Her dedication earned her the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef: Mountain Region in 2022, a testament to her influence in the food world.
But accolades aren’t what drive Glover. In interviews, she often shares that her mission is to create a workplace that values people first — especially in an industry where burnout is rampant. She focuses on sustainable hours, shared tips, and a respectful environment for her staff, which has helped Annette maintain a strong and committed team.
A Hidden Gem at Stanley Marketplace
Located in the increasingly trendy Stanley Marketplace — a converted aviation manufacturing building — Annette offers a cozy escape from the usual hustle. The space is small but filled with character: rustic wood beams, dim lighting, and a vibe that feels both elevated and relaxed.
This balance between casual and refined is one of Annette’s greatest strengths. Whether it’s a date night, special occasion, or just a Tuesday dinner, the experience always feels unique and personal.
Seasonal Menus That Keep Evolving
Annette’s menu is hyper-seasonal, changing often based on local availability. Glover works closely with Colorado farmers and ranchers to craft dishes that reflect the region’s bounty. In summer, that might mean tomato tarts with goat cheese and fresh basil. In winter, think of hearty rabbit stew with root vegetables and crusty sourdough.
This emphasis on freshness and creativity keeps diners coming back — you never quite know what you’ll get, but you can count on it being unforgettable.
What the Critics Are Saying
Annette continues to garner glowing reviews from food writers and publications. The Denver Post has named it among the top restaurants in the state multiple times. Eater Denver praised Glover’s work as “comfort food with ambition,” while Food & Wine Magazine highlighted Annette as one of the must-visit spots in the Rockies.
Online reviews echo the sentiment. On Google, Yelp, and TripAdvisor, customers consistently note the quality of ingredients, innovative dishes, and genuine hospitality.
More Than Just a Restaurant
For Glover, Annette isn’t just a place to eat — it’s a space to connect. She regularly hosts community events, pop-up dinners, and collaborations with local artisans. From wine pairings to chef takeovers, the restaurant aims to foster relationships beyond the plate.
This approach reflects her belief that food should be both nourishing and inclusive. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Annette pivoted to offer take-home meal kits and staff support programs — actions that further cemented the restaurant’s values.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Annette?
Even after years of acclaim, Glover isn’t slowing down. She’s exploring new ideas for seasonal tasting menus, chef residencies, and possibly even a second concept under the Annette brand. Whatever comes next, it’s clear that Glover’s heart will be at the center of it.
In a time when restaurants often chase trends, Annette remains committed to authenticity, quality, and care. That’s what continues to win over guests — and why Caroline Glover’s Annette continues to impress.
Final Thoughts
Annette is more than a restaurant — it’s a reflection of a chef’s values and a community’s support. With every dish served, Caroline Glover continues to prove that meaningful, memorable dining is about more than food. It’s about love, patience, and purpose.
For reservations or to view the menu, visit Annette’s official website. To learn more about Glover’s accolades, check out her profile on the James Beard Foundation.
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