Larry Herz’s mission is to fill seats at local restaurants, driven by the challenges he experienced during his 29 years in the industry. As the face of OCN (Our Community Now) Eats, Larry supports local eateries by highlighting their owners—good people serving great food. Our annual Food & Drink issue is the perfect time to share his favorites in the Broomfield area! Also, don’t miss his special segment, Dining Out with Larry, every Friday at 4pm on CBS News!
So, let’s dive in…
La Belle French Bakery: 1170 US-287, Broomfield, CO 80020
“La Belle is an absolute gem,” Larry shares. Originally founded in Thornton, Founder and CEO Julien Renaut aims to open 16 locations across Colorado. When he appeared as a guest on OCN Eats' ‘What’s For Lunch,’ he brought 40 pastries—each one better than the last. “Julien is an absolute sweetheart,” Larry adds, noting that he has added sandwiches to the menu. With fresh-made baguettes, it’s a top lunch spot. “Every dish is a work of art; you don’t know if you should eat it or hang it on the wall.”
Jennie Pho: 6765 W 120th Ave A, Broomfield, CO 80020
“Their Phorrito is a standout—think of it as a Vietnamese twist on a French dip, with meat, rice noodles, and more wrapped in a tortilla, served with a side of pho broth.” Another favorite of Larry’s is the Phonomenon, featuring whole lobster and wagyu beef. “John and Jennie, along with their kids, make this place feel like home,” he adds. “You can taste the love in every dish.”
La Distileria: 2255 W 136th Ave, Broomfield, CO 80023
“La Distileria is simply gorgeous,” Larry says. “A friend recommended it, and I’m glad she did. The pozole is one of the best I’ve ever had.” He’s also a fan of their frozen drinks and the quesabirria—a unique blend of French dip and taco. “The drippings from the meat are used to season the tortilla and make the dipping sauce. It’s smooth, rich, and spicy, perfect for flavoring meats. You really need to taste it to appreciate it fully.”
Rock City Pie & Ice: 1386 US-287, Broomfield, CO 80020
“Rock City Pie & Ice is my favorite in the north metro.” said Larry, with absolute conviction. He explains, “Detroit-style uses Wisconsin cheese drizzled on the outside to create a caramelized crust. The pizza is light and airy, not dense, with the sauce on top.” Larry adds, “The history is fascinating—Detroit-style pizza was baked in blue steel pans originally used as drip trays or to hold scrap metal.”
CD's Wings: 7685 W 88th Ave, Westminster, CO 80005
“CD Wings is easily in the conversation for the best wings in the Denver metro area,” says Larry. “Their commitment to quality is unmatched—they fry each order from raw, while others might cut corners.” Starting in Westminster, expanding to Aurora, and soon Parker, CD Wings is known for its sauces, ranging from mild to super spicy. Larry’s go-to flavor? “The Notorious RBG, hands down,” he adds.
Chop Shop: 799 US-287, Broomfield, CO 80020
“Chop Shop is a standout in the fast-casual scene,” Larry says. “Their commitment to sous vide meat is impressive—the braised short rib is unbelievable, and that same technique keeps the fried chicken extremely moist.” He also praises their bacon-wrapped meatloaf and notes, “Their presentation is so refined it feels like fine dining in a fast-casual setting. No one competes with them in their lane.”