5 places for bread lovers to visit

Watch bakers make the city's signature sourdough bread through a 30-foot observation window while taking in historic and interactive exhibits that shed light on the intertwined past of sourdough and the city. Classes cover bread-making techniques and tips for focaccia, German white bread, bagels, sourdough and other styles. With little decoration beyond the colorful breads baked that morning, and a simple menu based on a wood-burning oven, this spot near Los Angeles is the lovechild of a bakery and a restaurant. Drop in to pick up baguettes, country boules, green olive bread with lemon and thyme, or whole wheat potato bread, among dozens of other styles. Or stay for a meal that centers on the garlic knot baked just for you. 2723 Wilshire Blvd. Try the signature beer bread for the local Breckenridge Brewery and, depending on when you visit, loaves such as cherry walnut for the winter holidays, the Columba di Pasqua Easter bread, Irish soda bread for St. Patrick's Day, Swedish peasant bread and jalapeño corn bread. 3200 Irving St. (303) 455-7194. www.thedenverbreadcompany.com.