Front Range Dining & Nightlife

COLORADO’S HIDDEN TREASURE

Published on July 24, 2017 in Dining & Nightlife/Front Range Activities/Front Range Attractions/Front Range Dining & Nightlife/Front Range Shopping/Shopping/Uncategorized by Ellen Gray

GOLDEN, COLORADO SHINES OUT WEST

by BRITTANY BANDEMER

It’s no secret that Colorado’s real estate market is booming, spurred by an influx of out-of-staters making the Centennial state their home. While many consider Denver or Boulder favorable places to settle down, they often overlook one of Colorado’s most beautiful and understated municipalities: the city of Golden.

Golden rests in a basin against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, below the North and South Table Mountains. On one side the city is marked by the prominent “M” for the School of Mines; on the other with the infamous “G” of Golden. Golden’s prime location serves as a focal point between Denver, Boulder and Evergreen, and offers a direct route to Black Hawk and canyon access – bypassing traffic to the slopes.

The city’s history is traced to its establishment in 1859. Proudly proclaimed across its welcome banner in the heart of downtown, Golden’s slogan is simply, “Where the West Lives,” and this declaration couldn’t be truer. This city is rich in history and continues to embody that spirit with barn wood trimmings, stucco-styled homes and architecture reminiscent of the Old West.

Yet for all its storied past, Golden is becoming increasingly modern, with red cobbled brick lining pedestrian walkways and immaculate landscaping – lending the town the uniquely dichotic feeling of being in two periods at the same time.

While technically a college town, home to the School of Mines, Golden does not resonate with that trait. A top-notch university, The School of Mines was recently rated the top engineering school in the nation by College Factual. Clearly, the college is not home to lackadaisical students. In fact, these students are ambitious and disciplined learners, attending the university not for a good time, but for the most advantageous career achievable. While they may go out on the weekends to the Swig Tavern, students are more likely to spend their free time studying or experiencing the great outdoors.

Golden’s myriad outdoor activities attract athletic enthusiasts by the droves. Colin Endsley, an outdoor adventurer who has lived in Golden for a little over a year says, “Golden is great in that you can walk in any direction from town and find some trail to fall into,” and truly there aren’t enough trails to behold. Golden’s trails are perfect for hikers and cyclists – Lookout Mountain serving as a popular route for the avid cyclist – and the views from each trail are spectacular, ranging from downtown Denver to DIA and back to the formidable Rockies.

Yet the ample trails are just a sampling of what Golden offers. There are also water sports such as tubing and kayaking (when the water flow is safe) from the Clear Creek River, and fishing for Rainbow and Brown trout for the avid angler.

Of special note is Golden’s popularity for the extreme sport of hang gliding. Windy Saddle Park offers a great launch point for hang gliders, and these colorful contraptions can be seen sashaying down the mountain most Saturdays and Sundays during the summer months.

Outdoors aside, one of Golden’s leading attractions is its quaint downtown, a charming and unassuming destination for tourists and locals alike. Downtown Golden is privileged to have so many locally owned restaurants and shops that could keep the body feasting and the mind entertained for days. Home to the infamous Coors Brewery and seasonal farmer’s market, the area embodies everything regionally Colorado.

Notable boutiques include Spinster Sisters Co., which now offers three locations in the Denver metro area (Golden serving as its home base). Opened in 2011, its founder Kelly Perkins calls her products “an alternative to the witches’ brew of

chemicals that many mod

ern skin care products represent.” From body scrubs to men’s shaving cream, Perkins and her team will keep your skin singing and fantastically fresh, no matter how dry Colorado’s air may be.

Sharing a storefront with Spinster Sisters is Baby Doe’s, a retailer showcasing relaxed and bohemian styles for the laid-back mountainista, as well as the craftsmanship of more than 40 regional artisans. Now under new ownership, Baby Doe’s offers a fresh look and feel that is sure to keep visitors stopping in to shop at one of the downtown area’s well-known establishments.

While the shopping is great

, the dining options are varied and delicious. If you’re looking for a good beer and a good time, there’s the Golden Moon Speakeasy and Buffalo Rose with live music weekly. If you’re following your taste buds and looking for superb dishes, you can venture over to Woody’s Pizza or Indulge Bistro & Wine Bar; Indulge has perhaps the best iced tea in Colorado, which they’ll bring to you by the pitcher.

When you’re ready for dessert, a must-visit is the family-owned and operated Gold Mine Cupcakes. Recently named by MSN.com as one of the top 16 best bakeries in the U.S., the bakery offers delicious, made-from-scratch creations served fresh by an even sweeter staff. Gold Mine Cupcakes will surely satisfy your sweet tooth with its assortment of 35 flavors and specials daily.

With all these successful businesses and the city’s incredible geography, it’s no wonder people are choosing to explore and settle down in Golden. The once outdated homes are constantly under renovation and are becoming prime real estate for those looking to live the mountain lifestyle, while not sacrificing proximity to the Denver area.

In the future, more local businesses will continue to take root and make their home in Golden. Thoughtful development and growth will only add to the area’s allure as a destination spot for visitors looking for something unique and special, and locals wanting to stake their claim in this unsung gem of Colorado’s landscape.

LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL

Published on July 22, 2017 in Activities/Attractions/Festivals/Front Range Activities/Front Range Attractions/Front Range Dining & Nightlife/Mountain Activities/Mountain Attractions/Mountain Dining & Nightlife by Ellen Gray

A GUIDE TO COLORADO’S TOP SUMMER FESTIVALS

by MARIAN TUIN

Picture yourself surrounded by the peaks of the Rocky Mountains; a pristine mountain breeze whispers across your skin, and rays from Colorado’s warm summer sunshine engulf you. You stand in the open air, perhaps holding a locally crafted beer or a crisp glass of wine. The music reverberates; sounds authored by the likes of Grammy award-winning country sensation Keith Urban, or the bluesy funk of Colorado’s own Nathaniel Rateliff and The Night Sweats.

Summer is the epicenter of Colorado’s festival season! It’s a place where your senses are stimulated by the sights, sounds, tastes and experiences embedded in our beautiful, sundrenched days and warm, star-filled nights. There are plenty of offerings from the city limits to the mountain valleys. And the collective 2017 lineup promises something for everyone: from music and bike enthusiasts to brewers, balloonists and wine connoisseurs … we even tracked down festivals for yogis!
If you’re ready for the freedom that the vibe of summer and outdoor experience brings, you don’t have to miss a beat researching and planning because we’ve done the work for you. We have compiled a list that highlights some of Colorado’s unique festivals scheduled for 2017, and captured exclusive insight from some of the state’s leading festival founders and producers.
So whether you find yourself surrounded by the peaks of Telluride or the lofty cityscape of Denver, you are bound to have a memorable experience.

FOR THE MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL SEEKER:

Jazz Aspen Snowmass
June Experience – Aspen
“The festival that we do at the end of June is how Jazz Aspen started back in 1991,” according to Jim Horowitz, founder and curator of the elite Jazz Aspen Snowmass June and Labor Day Experiences.
The experience features four nights of headline concerts at the Benedict Music Tent in Aspen. In addition, there are multiple shows at the JAS Cafe upstairs at the Aspen Art Museum and downstairs at The Little Nell. They also host nightly complimentary Lawn Parties on the music tent grounds before the main shows, featuring live bands and an upscale array of food and beverage.
June 23 – July 1, 2017
jazzaspensnowmass.org/june-experience.html

July 1 – August 4, 2017
BRAVO! VAIL Music Festival – Vail
The festival’s 30th season features four of the world’s greatest orchestras, internationally renowned musicians and acclaimed soloists. In the breathtaking setting of the Rocky Mountains, revel in classical masterworks, soulful jazz and electrifying pops programs. Featuring residencies by four returning ensembles: The Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, The Philadelphia Orchestra and the New York Philharmonic. Soloists include violinists Joshua Bell, Simone Lamsma, James Ehnes, Gil Shaham and Leonida Kavakos; cellist Steven Isserlis; trumpeter and vocalist Byron Stripling; and pianists Garrick Ohlsson, Yefim Bronfman and Inon Barnatan.

Hot Air Balloon Rodeo – Steamboat Springs
The Hot Air Balloon Rodeo and Art in the Park events explore the beauty of artistry and color both on canvas and in the sky. This stunningly visual weekend brings the sleepy offseason to life in Steamboat Springs and is a celebration of summertime.
July 8-9, 2017
steamboatchamber.com/info/events

Telluride Yoga Festival
This four-day event is a paradise for yogis and features more than 100 different activities including yoga, meditation, music, hiking, dining, SUP yoga and more. Guests have access to more than 50 inspiring and motivating presenters contrasted by the intimate and historic venues throughout the towns of Telluride and Mountain Village.
July 20-23 | tellurideyogafestival.com

Rockygrass Festival – Lyons
Rockygrass is the second of three events Planet Bluegrass produces annually and serves as a celebration of the town of Lyons’ strength and resilience. Originally held just 10 months after historic 500-year floods devastated the town, it is known today as one of the great traditional bluegrass festivals in the world.
Planet Bluegrass’ Brian Eyster gave us more insight into the history saying, “In 1992, the volunteer-run Rocky Mountain Bluegrass reached out to Planet Bluegrass to keep the festival alive. We found a property in Lyons along the St. Vrain River to host that event and two years later we purchased the property, known today as the Planet Bluegrass Ranch.”
July 28-20, 2017 | bluegrass.com/rockygrass

Breckenridge Food & Wine -Breckenridge
Breckenridge’s Main Street Station Plaza transforms into a charming mountainside vineyard each year to host the Food and Wine Festival. Delivering a unique wine-tasting experience, you’ll find an array of varietals created by fine wineries. From the soft and smooth to the unabashedly bold, wine lovers will get more than their fair share of delicious sips.
July 29, 2017
rockymtnevents.com/breckenridge-food-wine

Rocky Mountain Folks Festival – Lyons
Rounding out the three events produced by Planet Bluegrass, the Rocky Mountain Folks Festival is dedicated to spending a glorious summer weekend celebrating songs and stories from around the musical and geographic world.
Brian Eyster shared that community is at the heart of the event. “I love to walk through the crowd or the campgrounds and watch this unique spirit of community,” he says. “At our festivals, there is only one single stage. Guests set up their tarps and spend the entire day sharing music, making lasting friendships with their neighbors and reconnecting with friends from past festivals. People aren’t on their phones, they’re very present, connecting with their fellow Festivarians through this communal music experience in this profoundly beautiful place.”
August 18-20, 2017 | bluegrass.com/folks

Vail Jazz Party – Vail
The Vail Jazz Party could be considered a maestro ushering in the grand finale of the Vail Jazz Festival and the beautiful Colorado summer season. It serves its patrons a jam-packed lineup with more than 35 headliners, who join together to play in group performances, multi-artist jam sessions, and inspiring multimedia tributes to jazz legends.
Aug 31 – Sep 4, 2017 | vailjazz.org

Jazz Aspen Snowmass – Snowmass
Jazz Aspen Snowmass’ Labor Day Experience is nestled in the ethereal setting of Snowmass Village Town Park. This luxurious open-air event is a dance-oriented extravaganza of popular, R&B, rock, funk, blues, world, and soul music. With the spectacular Elk Mountain Range as a backdrop, this three-day experience welcomes to the stage Keith Urban andMaroon Five, among others in 2017.
Event visionary and mastermind Jim Horo-witz disclosed, “The biggest challenges over the years is what it takes to put together a stellar, world-class program of artists. We’ve managed, but clearly that’s the hardest part of what we do. It all flows from there because if the program isn’t good enough, then the people don’t come, or they don’t buy as many tickets.” Summarizing, “That really is our DNA. We are a music presenter, whether it is for 150 people listening to jazz or 10,000 people listening to Stevie Wonder. People are coming to us to hear a great musical performance.”
September 1-4, 2017 | jazzaspensnowmass.org

Telluride Blues & Brews – Telluride
Known as the festival capital of Colorado, Telluride begins to wind down its festival season with Blues & Brews. This celebration of blues, funk, jam bands, indie, rock, gospel and soul performances is paired with some of the best microbreweries in the country.
September 15-17, 2017 | tellurideblues.com

FOR THE URBAN FESTIVAL GOER:

Opening Night at Central City Opera. Featured in Central City Opera’s 75th anniversary book, “Theatre of Dreams, The Glorious Central City Opera- Celebrating 75 Years.”
Central City Opera 2017 Festival
This acclaimed summer festival features Bizet’s Carmen and Mozart’s Cosi fan tutte, performed in repertory in the historic Central City Opera House, and three one-act operas with limited runs: Britten’s The Burning Fiery Furnace, Douglas Moore’s Gallantry, and Amy Beach’s Cabildo, performed in smaller venues in Central City. Founded in 1932, Central City Opera is the fifth-oldest professional opera company in the country, renowned for its exquisite world-class productions. Just 35 miles west of Denver in the charming mountain town of Central City, the company owns 28 Victorian-era properties, including the 550-seat jewel box opera house built in 1878. This is a must-see for opera aficionados!

July 8 – August 6, 2017

Greeley Stampede – Greeley
Greeley boasts one of Colorado’s largest and most historic summer festivals and rodeos. Dating back to the 1800’s, Greeley’s Fourth of July celebration keeps the “Yeehaw!” in Colorado’s Western culture.
June 23 – July 4, 2017 | greeleystampede.org

Global Dance Festival – Denver
Global Dance showcases Colorado’s passion for dance music annually and has grown to become one of the premiere summer music festivals statewide. After spending years at Red Rocks Amphitheater, the dance party expands its boundaries and finds a new home at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in 2017!
July 21-22, 2017 | globaldancefestival.com

Underground Music Showcase (UMS) – Denver
The Denver Post Underground Music Showcase marks its 17th anniversary in 2017. It lays claim as the biggest independent music festival in the Rocky Mountain region and, more importantly, is the premiere showcase for Denver’s incredible local music!
July 27-30, 2017 | theums.com

ARISE Music Festival – Loveland
Arise boasts that it is more than a music festival, rather a movement. It is a music, yoga, activism and co-creative camping event located 65 miles north of Denver, at Sunrise Ranch. Now in its fifth year, it is proving its staying power, and this year’s lineup includes headliners Atmosphere and Ani DeFranco.
August 4-7, 2017 | arisefestival.com

Velorama – RiNo Arts District, Denver
This three-day biking, food, music, shopping and crafting extravaganza will overtake 12 blocks of the RiNo Art District for a street party that celebrates biking culture in Colorado. Daily family-friendly festivities are offered, making this an all-ages event that promises something for everyone.
August 11-13, 2017 | veloramacolorado.com

Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest – Fort Collins
Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest is a free music festival held in historic downtown Fort Collins. Prominently featuring a Colorado-based lineup, they host a variety of genres, including a one-of-a-kind, family-centered Kids’ Music Adventure.
August 11-13,2017 | bohemiannights.org/
bohemian-nights-at-newsfest.html

A Taste of Colorado – Denver
One of Denver’s most delicious weekends serves up some of the state’s favorite food. More than 50 Colorado restaurants and food establishments gather in downtown Denver’s streets over Labor Day weekend to give patrons A Taste of Colorado. Combined with six stages playing live music, carnival rides, shopping and much more, this is hands down one of Colorado’s biggest celebrations of the year.
September 1-4, 2017 | atasteofcolorado.com

Off the Grid: White Fence Farm

Published on April 5, 2017 in Attractions/Dining & Nightlife/Front Range Attractions/Front Range Dining & Nightlife/The Colorado Blog by Ellen Gray

Want to discover places only the locals know about? Longtime Denverite Bill Husted introduces you to this hidden gem:

The Denver dining scene has exploded in the past decade, with nationally recognized eateries opening on every corner. Expensive and somewhat precious, Denver restaurants are to be reckoned with. Ask any foodie.

But one mess hall has been serving up exactly the same simple grub since 1973 to hundreds of people every night (except Mondays). On Mothers Day and Easter they serve more than 3,000. That’s a lotta fried chicken.

Yup, fried chicken. Finger lickin’ chicken at White Fence Farm. Sitting on an eight-acre spread in Lakewood, a short drive from downtown Denver, this extra family-friendly eatery keeps it simple. Oh it serves salmon and the obligatory steak – but people come here for the fried chicken and the sides. The chicken comes piled high, a sizzling plateful the size of your head, almost impossible to finish. And the sides keep coming, bowls of bean salad, coleslaw, cottage cheese, pickled beets, hot corn fritters, chicken gravy, potatoes mashed, French fried and baked. This is all so homey and genuine you think Tom Saw- yer is your waiter.

WFF is run by legendary Denver restaurateur Craig Caldwell. For de- cades he operated sports bars like Brooklyn’s, checking IDs and planning Happy Hours. Now at WWF it’s always Happy Hour with families and friends pouring in for that familiar chicken.

If there’s a wait, no one seems to mind. They literally like to wait because they’re on the farm and there’s plenty to do. Dancing to a live band, petting the three goats, squeezing the balloon animals, chasing the geese, watching the model trains, climbing the tree house, eating the fudge, posing for the period photographs – even bellying up to the bar for a drink.

This is not your usual tourist destination. This is its own little corny world from yesterday. Work up an appetite and a sense of humor. White Fence Farm has a chicken with your name on it.

Denver Central Market – A Mile-High Market Hall

Published on January 5, 2017 in Attractions/Dining & Nightlife/Front Range Attractions/Front Range Dining & Nightlife/The Colorado Blog by Ellen Gray

BY MONICA PARPAL STOCKBRIDGE

Unless you live or work in Denver’s River North Arts District (also known as RiNo), you may not have noticed the H.H. Tammen building — a former curio shop and Native American crafts store that operated during the mid-1900s. After standing vacant for years, the building was renovated, refurbished and reopened in September as Denver Central Market, breathing new life into the former manufacturing hub of the city.

Over the past several years, Denver has been steadily building its reputation as a sophisticated and seasoned foodie destination. In particular, RiNo and other neighborhoods north of downtown have seen a revitalization of new businesses, residences, arts and entertainment. Part of this renaissance includes the introduction of gourmet food and retail markets and food halls, a national trend reflecting European-style open-air markets and food emporiums. Concepts like Oakland’s Rockridge Market Hall and Grand Central Market in Los Angeles (which will celebrate 100 years in 2017), Manhattan’s EATaly (with more than three dozen locations worldwide), and Chicago’s recently opened Latin food hall, Latinicity (by Richard Sandoval), are just a handful of national market hall spaces gaining ground around the country.

Before Denver Central Market opened, the modern food hall concept had taken hold in just a handful of distinct places in the Mile High City: The Source, built in a renovated foundry in RiNo, offers a mix of retail and restaurant spaces, a central bar, and upstairs office spaces. The Highlands’ Avanti serves as a modern food court and restaurant incubator. About seven concepts rent space in former shipping containers, aiming to refine their offerings, generate a following, and create a new style of dining in the city. The Stanley Marketplace is another example, currently opening in an expansive 140,000-square-foot space housing more than 50 businesses.

Denver Central Market, however, aims not to hatch new concepts or simply capitalize on a trend. Instead, owners Ken Wolf and chef Jeff Osaka sought to bring fundamental amenities to an under-served neighborhood. “I’d walk the neighborhood and found that, even just a few blocks away, there were no basic services around,” Osaka says.

Jeff Osaka’s first restaurant, Twelve, was open for six years in Denver’s Ballpark neighborhood — just a stone’s throw from RiNo. The neighborhood was largely a commercial and manufacturing hub for many years. But Wolf had purchased the H.H. Tammen building nearly two decades earlier and had that very space in mind when he and Osaka connected.

Indeed, the two harbored a shared vision of bringing a market hall concept to the neighborhood — a place where people could purchase fresh fish, butchered meats, bread and produce, as well as sit down for a drink or a bite to eat.

“To be a true marketplace rather than a food hall, we needed retail aspects. We wanted a produce department, a butcher shop, a fishmonger,” Osaka says. “We wanted to cover all bases.”

The first step was to reinvent the space. Wolf and Osaka updated the building with elegant floor tiles, modern seating and mid-century light fixtures to illuminate the original brick and wood beams in the ceilings and walls. They organized cooking, prep, and handwashing stations for nearly a dozen vendors while keeping the space open, airy and walkable. They conjured a combination of original elements and modern furnishings designed to evoke a bygone era, achieving a sense of stepping back in time without sacrificing any of the modern comforts we enjoy.

Osaka understood that when it came to leasing the space, they needed a group of vendors firmly grounded in the Denver food scene. Justin Brunson was a natural choice for artisan cheeses and cured meats with Culture Meat & Cheese. Etai Baron of Izzio Artisan Bakery (formerly Udi’s) would provide the market’s bakery addition. Green Seed produce shop and restaurant would sell whole fruits and veggies as well as plated salads and fresh juices. Neighboring Crema Coffee House was a natural choice for the market’s java spot, and homegrown High Point Creamery was chosen to churn gourmet ice cream. “The Market really speaks to what we love most about Denver: amazing food, collaboration, and community,” High Point Creamery owners Chad Stutz and Erika Thomas write on their online vendor page.

In a feat of organization and collaboration, all 11 vendors opened for business at the same time on September 25, 2016, each bringing something unique, high quality and memorable to the market. “We put out a great product, whether a cut of beef or an ice cream sandwich,” Osaka says. “We’re very proud to be who we are and proud of the product that we put out.”

Providing many different options under one roof has proven successful at places like Avanti, The Source, and even the recently revitalized Union Station. And while the people living and working in RiNo tend to be part of a younger demographic, “we get people of all ages in the market,” Osaka says. “Just today there were little kids here, and elderly people. It’s a progression throughout the day. And while we thought a lot of people would walk here, we see people driving from all parts of town — even from as far away as Castle Rock.

With a minimum five-year lease, the goal at Denver Central Market is to create longevity among its vendors. “We want people to come back again and again and know the butcher will be there, or chocolatier will be there,” Osaka says, adding that he and Wolf purposely designed the building to reflect its mid-1900’s origins. “We want to be around for a long time.”

Visiting Central Market is, for some, a daily or weekly ritual for a fresh cut of meat or a morning espresso. For others, it’s an occasional excursion, a place to experience the sights, sounds, and flavors that define Denver’s evolving personality. In the early morning, when the windows filter sunlight through a patina of an earlier time, it’s impossible not to wonder about the people who used to roam the hall, and the things they found here. Luckily, that element of discovery — as well as an age-old appreciation of good food and vibrant community — is alive and thriving in the new Denver Central Market.

The Big Red F – More than a Meal

Published on October 31, 2016 in Dining & Nightlife/Front Range Dining & Nightlife by Ellen Gray

BY MONICA PARPAL STOCKBRIDGE

The dining scene along the Front Range has evolved in a big way over the past several years, and that growth has helped put Denver on the map as a veritable culinary destination.

Yet, when we dine out in Denver — or any city, really — we don’t always get to see the heart and soul of a restaurant or the people who make it what it is. The really great experiences, the ones that stick with us long after the meal is over, are the ones steeped in generous service, warmed by undeniable inclusivity and authenticity that make you want to return again

It’s not easy to find restaurants like this, and most don’t even last long enough to fully develop those traits. That’s what makes restaurateur Dave Query and his restaurant group so unusual.

It was 1994 when Dave Query first created Big Red F restaurant group, which now includes Zolo Grill, Lola Coastal Mexican, Centro Mexican Kitchen, West End Tavern, The Post Chicken & Beer, and a shoal of Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar locations in Boulder, Denver, Fort Collins, and Glendale.

While he is widely respected as one of Colorado’s pioneering restaurateurs, Query will be the first to tell you he never set out to own a restaurant group. What he did set out to do was create a place where everyone was treated with warmth and respect. A place where success wasn’t measured in grades or tests, but in serving high-quality food with a smile, every single night.

One might assume that the “F” in Big Red F represents the group’s commitment to good food. Or maybe the fun-loving staff and cheerful culture. Dave’s wife and Big Red F head of marketing Dana Faulk Query likes to say that the “F” in Big Red F really stands for “family.”

And in truth, Big Red F is all those things. It’s a story that begins with Dave Query, and passed along and augmented through the years. Today, it’s a story told by the people who have been part of Query’s life and restaurants for more than two decades and counting.

He may not have known it at the time, but when Query first launched Big Red F in 1994 he was creating something of a food movement. “We just thought we knew what good food tasted like and how to serve it with a smile in a way that wasn’t being done at the time,” he writes on the company website. That concept of serving good food to all has guided this mission, and also inspired the tribe of people who have joined him along the way.

Jamey Fader, Big Red F Culinary Director and Executive Chef at Lola, is one of those people, and reflects on meeting Query in 1996. “I saw this opportunity at Jax, and hearing Dave talk about doing ‘cheffy’ dishes but also a great burger, shrimp cocktail, and po’boys served with love and passion and quality ingredients, no matter who the guest was … well, that was revolutionary at the time.”

That foundational devotion to good food and passionate hospitality connected Fader and Query with Jennifer Broyles, who came on board at Lola in 2002. “I remember telling Dave I’d be at Lola for maybe a year,” she says, laughing. “Seventeen years later I’m still here, and wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

The food and menus at Lola in particular have continued to evolve over the past 14 years, and it’s more successful than ever. Today, the regional Mexican influences and modern creativity guide menu items like Lobster Tamales, Grilled Octopus, and Whole Red Snapper. And that’s just at Lola. From fried chicken to craft beer to fresh oysters, the high-quality food options are only getting better. Thanks to Query’s restless and creative spirit, “the team has never been afraid of innovating and experimenting in order to keep challenging ourselves,” Broyles says.

Atop the foundation of great food rises the ever-growing focus on silliness and fun. From throwing fish at the annual Labor Day fish toss to throwing a great party at each restaurant every night, it’s clear from talking to anyone at Big Red F that fun is baked into the culture.

John “Johnny-Mo” Bachman attributes that to the early days at Zolo Grill, which created a culture that has lived on in all Big Red F restaurants.

“The staff at Zolo was so strong, so knowledgeable, and took so much pride in their work, that anyone who didn’t pull their weight was immediately and daily called out for it,” recalls Bachman. “As a new bartender, I quickly got a reputation for taking a bit too long to make the margs.” For his entire whole first month on the job, he’d hear “Hey Molasses, those drinks ready for 52 yet?” dozens of times a night. Molasses became Johnny-Mo and the name stuck.

While nicknames and slinging drinks are part of the fun, Big Red F’s culture runs even deeper than that. Talk to any longtime employee at Big Red F and you’ll immediately get the sense that they’re more than just work buddies. They’re family.

On the subject of family, Broyles says it’s integral to the group’s identity. “It goes back to the company in general, wanting to really connect with people when they walk through the door, whether they want a three-dollar beer and chicken taco or top-shelf tequila,” she says. “Our restaurants always were and continue to be places where family is created, and places that take care of their own, staff and guest alike.”

That sense of family even extends beyond the restaurants and into the community, thanks to Philanthropy Queen Diana Underhill (and yes, that’s her real title.) “We want to contribute and support the organizations here that make our communities so rich,” she says.

Of the many charities Big Red F supports, one notable recipient is There With Care – a nonprofit organization supporting families and children in medical crisis. At the annual Jax Fish House High West Oyster Fest in 2015, Big Red F raised an astounding $590,000 for the charity in a single evening.

Employees like Underhill and Bachman also have their own personal experiences of family at Big Red F. They each met their future spouses while working at one of the restaurants. Query himself presided over Bachman’s wedding ceremony. And they each have their own children now, who (like all three of Query’s kids) have spent a big part of their lives in those same restaurants.

“When you have a 21-year-old restaurant business, amazing things start to happen,” Bachman says. “We’ve watched guests go out on first dates, witnessed their courtship and marriages, and now, some of their kids work for us. That’s one amazing part about Big Red F.”

With so much history and community woven into their story, the real meaning of Big Red F is hard to describe in a single word. Fader puts it this way: “It was evident from day one that it doesn’t matter whether you are washing dishes, bussing tables, shucking oysters, or pouring drinks,” Fader adds. “We are all held in the same high regard. That’s why so many of us have been around for 15-plus years, because we respect each other so much.”

The sentiment surrounding Query is summed up by his eldest son who put it like this: “He’s really the kind of guy who does it all. He’d be doing kitchen prep, polishing glasses, and making it to a James Beard dinner, all of which took place before or after picking us up and dropping us off at school. DQ is a remarkable man and a remarkable father.”

It’s big feelings like this that encompass what Big Red F is all about. It’s the feeling you get when you walk into Lola during happy hour, live music and strong drinks filling the space. It’s the feeling that someone is taking care of you, whether you’re working a long shift or finally sitting down to a good meal with your family. It’s that authentic, no-nonsense sense of passion that Dave Query and his team live and breathe each day. And more than anything, it’s feeling — knowing, even — that we’re all in this together.

The Flavors of Chef Richard Sandoval

Published on July 21, 2016 in Front Range Dining & Nightlife by Ellen Gray

Fifteen – Love

Tennis Pro Turned Culinary Icon Richard Sandoval Talks About Food, Flavors and 15 Years of the Denver Restaurant That Started it All

Richard Toro Hong Kong2 — Chef Richard Sandoval

In May, one of Denver’s original Mexican restaurants celebrated its quinceañera. “It seems like it’s been three minutes,” Chef/Owner Richard Sandoval says of his now 15-year-old Tamayo restaurant in Larimer Square. “Time flies by,” he adds. “But to see a restaurant that is 15 years old and having its best year ever is pretty incredible. It’s a tribute to the chefs, the team, the staff. They’ve done an amazing job.”

And that’s how my interview with the world-renowned chef begins — with an immediate nod to his staff and the people supporting him in his restaurants all over the world. He orders us two glasses of water, silences his cell phone, and turns back to me as we sit in the recently renovated Tamayo dining room to talk about his roots, his move to Denver, and his plans for the future.

The Son of A Restaurant Owner Richard Sandoval was born in Mexico City, the son of a restaurant owner and grandson of a banker. His parents divorced when he was very young, and he spent much of his childhood in his grandmother’s kitchen.

“In Latin culture, everything revolves around food,” Sandoval says. He describes vivid memories of watching his grandmother set the long dining room table, routinely hosting 20-25 people each Friday and Saturday. The cooks would emerge from the kitchen with ample platters of traditional Mexican dishes — as well as imported European delicacies — and young Sandoval would take part in all six or seven courses, tasting everything from molé and chimichurri to European butter and nutty Gruyère. “I was very fortunate that, at a young age, I was experiencing and tasting these different ingredients which a lot of kids would never think about tasting,” Sandoval says. “It had a huge impact on my future and my career.” He believes that someone, somewhere, had a plan for him — a plan that would eventually lead him to a career in the culinary world.

At the age of 12, Sandoval went to live with his father who owned an iconic restaurant in Acapulco. Not a chef but a great businessman, Sandoval’s father instilled in him the importance of business sense. “My father was always having long meetings about numbers,” he remembers, laughing. “That stuck with me.”

The budding chef would eventually attend culinary school, but not before pursuing his other passion: tennis. “All I ever thought about throughout high school was tennis,” he says. In his early 20s, Sandoval went on to compete in prestigious matches all over the world. Yet, he eventually realized he wouldn’t make a living playing professionally. “So, I could go back home and teach tennis, orI could choose a different path,” Sandoval recalls.

His passion for food quickly resurfaced and he decided to enter the Culinary Institute of America — although at that time he had no plans to open his own restaurant. “Never!” he laughs. But for the first time, he found himself engaged in the classroom and actively reliving a passion rooted deep in his childhood. His competitive spirit began to burn anew and led him to wonder what might be possible.

After graduation, Sandoval went to work for his father to solidify his skills in restaurant operations. Four years later, he decided it was time. He moved back to New York and opened his first restaurants: the French-inspired Savann and Savann Est.

In 1997, he opened his flagship modern Mexican restaurant in New York, Maya — an homage to his heritage and a veritable game-changer for Mexican cuisine. Five years after that, he opened Tamayo, his first restaurant in Colorado.

Mexican Food Then and Now

When Sandoval began building his dream of introducing Latin and Mexican cuisine to an international audience, he started with Denver — which is much different now than it was in the early 2000s.

“It was much harder get people to understand modern Mexican food at that time. People saw

Mexican food as fast casual or Tex-Mex, not fine dining.” Sandoval would gently insist that fine Mexican cuisine is not so different from fine Italian or French food, only accompanied by crema fresca and chile de árbol instead of crème fraîche and herbes de Provence.

Today, that perception has noticeably changed. “As people are moving into town, you get more ethnic groups, more diversity, more people interested in more diverse restaurants.” Plus, he says, there are more and better chefs in Denver now, and that competition helps everyone grow and improve.

“People are engaging with Mexican food like never before,” Sandoval says. “20 years ago, Mexican wasn’t a global cuisine. Today, you find it all over the world. I feel very proud to have showcased my culture in that way.”

The Move to Denver

Indeed, Sandoval’s early restaurants would lay the foundation for what was to come, namely the launch of his global restaurant group (Richard Sandoval Restaurants), including half a dozen restaurants in Colorado and nearly 40 others around the world.

Through it all, Sandoval has never fully unmoored from his early anchor in the Rocky Mountains. In 2015, he moved his headquarters (and his family) to Denver for good.

“Denver has long been a home to me,” Sandoval says. “When I first opened Tamayo 15 years ago, I was actually in the process of moving here.” He had rented a house in Cherry Creek and even enrolled his young son and daughter in school. But as he was planning the move, more restaurant opportunities emerged which would require him to travel more than expected. He and his then wife decided to move their family to California, while Sandoval kept a simple apartment in Denver. “I’ve always had the most restaurants here, and I’ve always spent the most time here over anywhere else,” he says. “The plan was always to settle down here.”

Since Tamayo opened all those years ago, Sandoval has carved out his own space in the culinary world, anchored by his native Mexican flavors and colored with international influences from Asia, Peru, and Spain. His concepts in Colorado include Zengo, La Sandia, La Biblioteca, Maya in Beaver Creek, and Venga Venga in Snowmass, while his other 40-some restaurants span Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada, New York, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., as well as Dubai, Hong Kong, Mexico, Tokyo, Qatar, and Serbia. His latest include Isla at The Pearl-Qatar and Toro Toro on the private island of Marsa Malaz.

Never-Ending Inspiration

Echoing his days on the tennis court, Sandoval is never one to stand still. New restaurants are opening all the time, like the forthcoming Aqimero in the Ritz-Carlton in Philadelphia along with others coming to Houston’s Four Seasons and Conrad Chicago.

His 10-year-old Denver restaurant, Zengo, also continues to evolve. With a name meaning “give and take back and forth,” in Japanese, Zengo has always represented a dance between Latin and Asian flavors. However, the concept has recently taken on a greater Asian emphasis in its Dubai and D.C. locations, and an imminent fall remodel to the Denver mainstay will reflect that shift here, too.

Sandoval is keenly aware of other changing trends in the culinary world. “Fine dining has taken a drastic left turn,” he says. “You see very few restaurants with white tablecloths anymore. These days, people are much more interested in sharing and having a more interactive experience.” Case in point: the menu at Tamayo was classically structured into appetizers and entrées for years. Now, it’s more of a sharing menu with ever-evolving starters, enchiladas, and chef-driven test kitchen items. Specials like $39 Bottomless Margarita Brunch don’t hurt, either.

La Sandia in Park Meadows Photo by Marc Piscotty — La Sandia in Park Meadows
Photo by Marc Piscotty

Tamayo’s new urban ambience also defies former expectations. “Mexican restaurants 20 years ago had iconic arches and colorful piñatas,” Sandoval says. “People expected them to have a certain look.” Today, Tamayo is urban, upscale, and trendy with dark woods brightened by floor-to-ceiling windows. Next year, Sandoval plans to remodel the rooftop, which he calls “one of the most beautiful spaces in Denver.”

As we wrap up our interview, I ask Sandoval what inspires him now, two decades since his childhood passion first drove him to open Maya and Tamayo.

“Oh, it’s still the food,” he says emphatically. “When I opened Maya, I wanted to show people that Mexican food was not just burritos and combination plates. And now 20 years later, I think I’ve accomplished that.”

Monica Parpal Stockbridge
Monica Stockbridge is a Denver-based writer and editor who has covered the food and dining scene for publications like DiningOut magazine and Moon travel guidebooks. As a contributing writer for Colorado Hotel Magazine, Monica writes chef profiles and hotel stories that reveal inspiring mile-high experiences for visitors and locals alike.

Mile-High Cocktails

Published on July 21, 2016 in Front Range Dining & Nightlife by Ellen Gray

The Sophisticate’s Guide to the City’s Best HAPPY HOURS!

“Looks like you have a lot on your mind … Do you want to drink about it?”

Another long day is winding down. Feeling tired, a bit overwhelmed, and plagued by a case of the blahs. But wait. There’s hope. The allure of plush leather. Soft lighting and laughter. Lots and lots of laughter. And then … wait for it because here’s the best part … the guy on the other side of the counter glances your way, smiles engagingly and asks, “What will it be?”

Magically, those four words transform your mood, and you feel your spirit soar as the burdens of the arduous day begin to fade. Yes, it’s happy hour, a time for fun and frivolity, innovative cocktails and witty conversation.

For many of us, relief in the form of a refreshing cocktail is a fabulous way to unwind, kick back, and shake off the day. In a flash (or a glass), memories of a tedious board meeting, a high-stakes business appointment or even a spat on the homefront can dissipate. Yes, it’s Happy Hour, a time to rekindle romance, bare your soul to a friend, or forge a new relationship.

Now let’s focus on you, weary traveler. After a long day of frenetic business meetings, what better way to chill than in a sophisticated outdoor setting with the sun on your face, a cool breeze, and an ice-cold beverage? But worry not, happy hour is not just for corporate types. Even seasoned shoppers understand the value of letting their hair down at the end of a taxing day spent visiting the city’s great stores and boutiques – kind of like retail therapy followed by lounge therapy.

So time to raise a glass, have some fun, and enjoy yourself in one of Denver’s many fabulous outdoor patios – where fun and sophistication are top of mind, while the people watching isn’t too bad either!

Elway’s Downtown at The Ritz Carlton

Everyone loves The Ritz, and here in Colorado, everyone loves John Elway. So when it comes to an ideal place to relax at the end of the day, Elway’s at the Ritz-Carlton Denver delivers a winning combination. All summer long, the patio opens at 11 a.m. and remains active until closing. Daily happy hour features great food and drink from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., and on Colorado Rockies home game days, happy hour heats up all day long! Live guitar music is a popular new attraction on Wednesday nights, featuring performances by Colin McAfee, who brings his St. Louis blues roots and acoustic sounds flavored after some of the greats such as Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jerry Garcia and Jimi Hendrix.

1881 Curtis St. in The Ritz Carlton

303.312.2800

elways.com/downtown

Del Frisco’s Grille in Cherry Creek North

Newly opened and already this is a favorite among locals wanting to see and be seen in the Mile High city. The expansive new rooftop patio at Del Frisco’s Grille is perched nearly three stories above the street, offering up views of the eclectic Cherry Creek North neighborhood. The patio is beautifully appointed, with landscaping, fire features, and a lounge-like atmosphere including community tables and high-top tables. The rooftop patio has its own bar and entrance via elevator or grand staircase. And best of all, Del Frisco’s Grille’s great food and cocktails are available up on the roof!

100 St. Paul St.

303320.8529

delfriscosgrirlle.com/cherrycreek

Shanahan’s Steakhouse in The Denver Tech Center

If you appreciate an original handcrafted cocktail accompanied by great food and great music, Shanahan’s Steakhouse is your bet. It’s upscale, tasteful and full of beautiful people having fun. The huge outdoor space is inviting and gorgeous, with contemporary furnishings, large glass windows that open into the restaurant, and live music all summer long. Propane heaters abound for cooler evenings, and a stunning two-story granite and quartz fireplace provides the perfect setting to gather round and raise a glass.

5085 Syracuse St.

303.770.7300

shanahanssteakhouse.com

The Palm in Downtown Denver

Recently remodeled, The Palm Denver is a favorite of locals, who love the new open contemporary floor plan, large bar, great menu featuring classics and new dishes, and of course, signature caricatures flanking the walls. This summer, make sure you sample the new Summer Lobster special, accompanied by a fantastic new cocktail list. The Mile High Hanging Chad, created by local Palm bartender Chad Skrbina for the 2008 Democratic National Convention is a hit, along with the Bourbon Blackberry Smash. Happy hour takes place Sunday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the gorgeous new bar, with half off all Prime Bites including oysters, calamari, cheeseburgers and more.

1672 Lawrence Street in The Westin Hotel

303.825.7256

The Hyatt Aurora

Aurora has a new address, and it’s nothing short of spectacular. The new Hyatt Regency Aurora-Denver Conference Center opened this Spring, and boasts all the modern amenities that you’d expect from a luxury hotel. In additional to state-of-the-art meeting facilities, the hotel also has a beautiful outdoor terrace that accommodates guests and meeting goers. But our personal favorite spot is Borealis, the great restaurant that reflects a variety of culinary styles that let guests embark on a culinary journey presented by the hotel’s award-winning chef, Tim Freeman. Happy hour lives up to its name, where guests can unwind with cocktails or craft beer on the terrace. Every day from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., this is the perfect summer venue to enjoy a glass of champagne or sparkling wine, a signature cocktail and delicious, mouthwatering hors d’ouevres.

13200 E. 14th Place

303.365.1234

Aurora.regency.hyatt.com

The ART Hotel in The Museum District

Nestled within a one-of-a-kind hotel is a one-of-a-kind venue that is a must-see for tourists desiring a cocktail with an artful twist. This unique hotel, centered on an experiential adventure, is part and parcel of what makes the spot so special. Up on the fourth floor is the FIRE Terrace, where patrons can savor cocktails and fare while watching the activity on Broadway Street. The terrace overlooks the city’s Museum District and History Colorado Center, and who can resist the ARTful cocktails paired with delicious nibbles and fun live entertainment.

1201 Broadway

303.534.6400

thearthotel.com

Troy Story

Published on May 27, 2016 in Dining & Nightlife/Front Range Dining & Nightlife/Profiles/Uncategorized by Ellen Gray

Chef Troy Guard on cooking, community, and taking the Denver dining scene to infinity … and beyond

By Monica Parpal Stockbridge

If you dine out in Denver with any regularity, you’ve heard of Troy Guard. He’s the one behind Larimer Square’s much-lauded TAG restaurant and nearby Los Chingones taco joint. He’s the one who opened TAG Burger Bar and, later this year, a second location in the former Sunnyside Burger Bar spot. He’s the guy we just saw take home first prize at Cochon 555 in March — that traveling culinary competition centered around heritage pork.Troy Guard is, to many, a rock star here in the Denver dining community. Between his culinary innovation, his ever-growing restaurant portfolio and his ability to balance a family through it all, it seems there’s nothing he can’t do. But if you ask him about it, he’ll tell you that he’s just a regular guy.

“I think of myself like anyone else,” Guard says. “I put on my jeans the same way every day, and tie my shoes, and go to work. [Cooking] is just what I love to do every day.”

Let’s back up to a time before Troy Guard was a Denver household name. The eldest of five kids, he grew up on the island of Maui, Hawaii. Cooking was a big part of his life long before he knew he wanted to be a professional chef. “My mom was a flight attendant, so she was gone a lot. I helped out around the house and in the kitchen,” Guard remembers. His father was — and still is — a barbecue chef on the weekends, cooking kalua pigs in underground imu pits. Guard describes a particularly special holiday tradition involving his father’s Hawaiian-style barbecue. “Every Thanksgiving, to this day, he digs a hole and tells everyone to show up at six in the morning with their turkeys. He wraps them in aluminum and chicken wire, puts them in the fire pit, and covers them with banana leaves, burlap sacks, rocks, and dirt. Six hours later, the turkeys are done.”

An homage to his father, Mister Tuna will open in mid-2016. One of Guard’s newest concepts, Mister Tuna, will open in the INDUSTRY business and community development in RiNo this summer. Somewhat contrary to its moniker, the restaurant will focus on wood-fired and rotisserie grilled meats and Mediterranean fare. The best part? In place of a raw bar, Guard plans to install a pickle bar where guests can purchase vinegar-soaked novelties like pickled Colorado peaches. “I am always trying to do things a little differently,” Guard says.

Although memories like these continue to inspire Guard’s cooking today, it wasn’t until he was 16, when his parents thought it was high time he get a job. that he found himself in a restaurant kitchen. “It was the first job I could find that was closest to my house,” he says, “so I kind of fell into it.” Guard started as a dishwasher and worked his way up, all the while admiring the gritty cooks who ruled the kitchen. “The were the renegades, the badasses,” Guard remembers. “I wanted to be like them.”

Guard continued working in restaurant kitchens through high school and junior college. He’d moved to the mainland at age seven, and at 21 decided to move back to Maui to work for culinary legend Roy Yamaguchi of Roy’s. “At the time, east meets west cooking was just coming into its own,” Guard recalls. “No one else was really doing fusion cooking, which was why it was so exciting.” It was here that he experienced what he calls his “aha moment.”

“The dish was Opakapaka,” Guard says, describing the Hawaiian pink snapper swimming in a creamy beurre blanc-based Thai curry and topped with spicy stir-fried vegetables. Guard had never tasted anything like it. “I thought I knew how to cook, but I realized then that I knew nothing.”

Working at Roy’s was formative for Guard. He learned about farm-to-table cooking before it became a common term. He bought tuna and opah from fishermen right off the docks. He learned to use fresh tomatoes, onions, papayas and guavas, all from local farmers. “I had never seen or done anything like that before,” he says. “I started from scratch again, and worked my way up.”

And up he went. After three years at Roy’s on Maui, Guard moved to Hong Kong to open another location there. “If I was going to learn Asian food, why not live in Asia?” he remembers thinking. From there, he went to Tokyo, then Singapore, then New York. He was young and unfettered, moving from one adventure to the next. “I didn’t care how much I got paid,” he says. “I just cooked, and it felt really good.”

By the time he reached his early thirties, Guard found himself in Denver working with notable chefs like Richard Sandoval to open Zengo, helping to create a never-before-seen Latin American and Asian fusion restaurant concept. He later opened Nine75 and Ocean, and eventually began to consider opening a restaurant of his own in the Mile High City. “I thought, if I never try it, I’ll always say ‘what if.’ I figured that, if I failed, I could always get another job,” he says. “I went with my gut.”

In 2009, Guard opened TAG, christened with his own initials (that “A” stands for Atherton, a family name). This first restaurant aimed at achieving his goal for a chef-driven, innovative destination with inventive items like Taco Sushi and Flash Seared Hamachi with Pop Rocks, anchored by classic NY Strip and seared and confited Canadian Duck. If time is any indicator, he’s succeeded — yet he remembers being challenged immediately by the increased demand and plunging economy. “Going from chef to owner meant that everything was 10 times harder. I was constantly learning, growing, educating myself, and adapting … otherwise, I could have closed the place,” he recalls somberly. “But the next thing I knew, someone was asking me to open another spot.”

Just like that, Guard found himself laying the foundation of an empire. After TAG came TAG Raw Bar, which later morphed into Bubu — a fresh fast-casual eatery with two locations, named for the snack-worthy puffed rice treat Guard grew up eating in Hawaii. After that, Madison Street opened in Congress Park, later updated to TAG Burger Bar to focus on his winning burgers. 2013 was a big year, when Guard opened his graffitied taco joint called Los Chingones; a dessert bar called Sugarmill with partner Noah French; and an upscale, wood-fired steakhouse called Guard & Grace. He hints at expanding the latter out of state in the near future. Los Chingones has proven so successful that a second opened in DTC, and yet another is slated for Stapleton — where he’ll also open a new breakfast restaurant this year. As if that weren’t enough, he’s got a Mediterranean concept planned for River North (RiNo) in June, and a family-friendly restaurant will open its doors on the corner of 32nd Avenue and Perry Street in early 2017.

“It’s all been very organic,” says Guard of this seemingly breakneck growth. “I go by my gut. I have to believe it’s the right spot in the right neighborhood and deliver what the neighborhood needs. It’s a thoughtful process. And so far, so good.”

Through it all, Guard still sees TAG as his flagship restaurant. “We’re on Larimer Square, the best square in the city, and there’s a lot to live up to.” He goes on to say that all managers and chefs who work at his restaurants are trained in the TAG cultural values. As Guard put it, it all goes back to his Hawaiian roots.

“In Hawaii, we call it ‘ohana,” Guard explains. “Family.” He describes how he works to create an environment of humility, passion, and caring in every one of his restaurants — and at home, too, where he’s raising two kids with his wife and industry accomplice, Nikki. Even his restaurants resonate that idea of family: Guard & Grace is named for his daughter, Grace; Los Chingones is an homage to his brothers; and that Mediterranean restaurant we mentioned? “It’s going to be called Mister Tuna, after my dad’s nickname in Hawaii. He was always in the ocean, diving and fishing. The restaurant honors him, and the name makes me feel good.”

Those values of family and community are anchored deep into Guard’s psyche — and his business practices. Each year, he contributes tens of thousands of dollars to charity, and he recently recruited his management staff for a Habitat for Humanity build. On top of that, for the last six years Guard has participated in the Taste of the NFL — a charitable culinary event held every year on Super Bowl eve. And oh, do Guard’s eyes light up when he talks football. “When we got Peyton Manning, everyone got so excited. It only took one guy to get everyone talking about the Denver Broncos again,” he says. “It really only takes one person to make a difference.”

Recently, Guard harnessed that excitement and launched the Taste of the Broncos annual tasting event at Invesco Field at Mile High, with samples from more than 30 restaurants and mingling Broncos players to boot. (We can only hope that Guard’s food will be enough to keep Peyton in attendance.)

Of course, Guard’s restaurants aren’t the only booming developments in Denver. The past few years have seen unprecedented growth in the city’s restaurant offerings — Guard cites Acorn and Biju’s Little Curry Shop among his favorite places to grab a bite — along with an almost alarming increase in population and housing developments. Even from inside the TAG lobby, Guard can see the industrial cranes and towering ironwork expanding into a shrinking downtown. “Change is inevitable,” Guard says. “I embrace it. In my opinion, Denver doesn’t get enough credit for how cool and dynamic it is. I’m glad I was here to see it and be in the midst of it all.”

We’re glad you’re here, too, Troy. With chefs like you, Denver’s culinary reputation is going nowhere but up. To infinity … and beyond.

Dining in Denver

Published on March 15, 2015 in Dining & Nightlife/Front Range Dining & Nightlife by Ellen Gray

1515 Restaurant

A Denver mainstay, owner Gene Tang and his staff take Modern American Cuisine into the stratosphere at 1515. They cook what they love. Chefs Garren Teich and Jonas Halstead create intimate menus with a nod to molecular gastronomy and the sous-vide technique. Housed in an historic building, the vintage setting is perfect for any special night out on the town or simply a dinner among friends. Their wine list has repeatedly won Wine Spectator’s “Award of Excellence.”
1515 Market Street
303.571.0011
1515Restaurant.com

Abejas
Located in the heart of downtown Golden, Abejas is the creation of Brandon Bortles and Barry Dobesh, who have deep roots in the area. Executive Chef Nicholas Ames spent time in great kitchens in San Francisco and Denver, and brings a love of culinary dishes to this wonderful restaurant. The menu is unique and flavorful, featuring fresh local ingredients that reflect the seasons. The rustic interior reflects the true spirit of Golden, Colorado.
807 13th St., Golden
303.952.9745
abejasgolden.com

Acorn
Chef/owner Steven Redzikowski serves up contemporary American cuisine in this innovative new epicurean marketplace located in the River North (RiNo) District. Housed in a reclaimed 1880’s foundry, the atmosphere is as innovative as the food. Co-owner Bryan Dayton delivers fabulous cocktails, artisan wines and beers.
3350 Brighton Blvd
720.542.3721
DenverAcorn.com

Argyll
The gastropub concept originated in the U.K., and Denver’s Argyll GastroPub presents a “notched up” version, with pub fare featuring fresh ingredients served in an authentic “public house” ambience. Noted chef John Broening has created a superb menu, and seasoned sommelier and whiskey enthusiast Ryan Conklin has assembled top-notch spirits.
1035 E. 17th Avenue
303.847.0850
ArgyllDenver.com

Bang!
With a menu as colorful as the restaurant’s exterior, Bang! quickly became a hit among locals and tourists looking for a great place to dine in The Highlands, just north of downtown Denver. The dress is casual, but the food is as good as it gets, whether it’s a shared calamari appetizer, a fresh salad or a plate of baby back ribs. Comfort food and so much more!
3472 W. 32nd Avenue
303.455.1117
BangDenver.com

Barolo Grill
This Denver favorite features a seasonal menu showcasing authentic northern Italian dishes with locally sourced ingredients. The spectacular wine cellar at this award-winning eatery includes a large collection of Barolo wines.
3030 E. 6th Ave.
303.393.1040
BaroloGrillDenver.com

Beast + Bottle
Owned by siblings Chef Paul C. Reilly and House Manager Aileen Reilly, Beast + Bottle is considered a new kid on the block, and an amazingly successful one at that. Just blocks from Denver’s city center, Beast + Bottle has raised the bar on the “farm to fork” genre of cuisine. They work with ranchers, farmers and other purveyors, offering unique cuts of meat prepared in their in-house butchery, and organic ingredients. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Beast + Bottle offers a delicious adventure in dining in a friendly, comfortable setting.
719 E. 17th St.
303.623.3223
BeastandBottle.com

Beatrice & Woodsley
The tastes of the Old world and new cuisine blend wonderfully to create a memorable dining experience. Beatrice & Woodsley is as original as the name implies, and has garnered great attention and kudos from foodies around town. The dinner menu is a delight, and the brunch is sure to put a smile on your face.
38 S. Broadway
303.777.3505
BeatriceAndWoodsley.com

Bistro Vendome
This classic French bistro is named after Place Vendome, a local favorite in the heart of Paris. Located in the historic Sussex Building in the heart of downtown’s Larimer Square, Bistro Vendome serves up classic French bistro fare made from local, seasonal ingredients. A wonderful selection of French wines are on hand to complement the meal, representing France’s major wine regions. The restaurant’s “Vin Maison” wine program allows guests to select different wines to accompany their meal.
1420 Larimer Street
303.825.3232
BistroVendome.com

Bittersweet
This award-winning restaurant offers artisanal cuisine steeped in old-world traditions. From handmade breads, tempting pastas and creative desserts, to produce grown in on-site gardens, every aspect of its dining experience blends authentic flavors with local ingredients.
500 E. Alameda Ave.
303.942.0320
BittersweetDenver.com

Black Pearl
The atmosphere is as original as the menu, which features contemporary American cuisine focused on seasonal offerings. Many items are made from locally grown ingredients, and the restaurant prides itself on strong attention to working with local, organic, humane and environmentally conscientious producers.
1529 S. Pearl Street
303.777.0500
BlackPearlDenver.com

Blue Island Oyster Bar
Chef DJ Nagle has crafted a wonderful menu that brings the coast to the mile-high city. The seafood is extremely fresh and delicious. As the name implies, the oysters are simply divine, shipped from Blue Island Shellfish Farms in New England. The hip bar serves up a wonderful assortment of wines, beer and cocktails that complement every seafood serving, from steamed mussels, lobster roils, clam chowder or succulent crab cakes.
2625 E. Second Ave.
303.333.2462
BlueIslandOysterBar.com

Bones
An Asian-inspired noodle house with a twist that’s uniquely Frank Bonanno’s, the chef/owner of a growing empire of top-notch local eateries. Situated between two other highly popular Bonanno restaurants, Luca D’Italia and Mizuna, Bones offers a unique, casual dining experience that nevertheless has a gourmet feel. The space is small; the flavors are anything but. And the noodle bowls are all the rage.
701 Grant Street
303.860.2929
BonesDenver.com

Café Aion
Pulling from the rich traditions surrounding Spanish tapas, Café Aion focuses on small, straightforward and delectable dishes like Manila clams with fresh peas and chorizo or beef short rib with roast cauliflower. They also offer a variety of smaller bites and larger plates in addition to a delicious dessert menu. Don’t miss their all-night happy hour on Tuesdays!
1235 Pennsylvania Ave., Boulder
303.993.8131
CafeAion.com

Cart + Driver
Chef Kelly Whitaker spins creative, offering up everything from authentic briny oysters to delicious salads and housemade pastries. Pizza is a staple at this unique establishment, which has developed a loyal and enthusiastic local fan club since opening in a 640-sq. ft. shipping container space right in Denver’s RiNo arts district. Experience the great fare of Southern Italian farms at this fun and friendly venue.
2500 Larimer St.
303.292.3553
Cart-Driver.com

Central Bistro and Bar
From every point of view, Central is an American restaurant, from the well thought-out recipes to the great atmosphere. Vintage furnishings create a place of comfort and relaxation, and that is exactly what you’ll want to do once you sample the food. Whether you’re in the mood for something from the sea or the land, Central will have you coming back next time in you’re in town.
1691 Central Street
303.477.4582
CentralBistroBar.com

Charcoal Restaurant
If you’re looking for one restaurant that boasts service equally as phenomenal as the food, Charcoal is the place to go. Executive Chef Patrik Landberg uses the highest-quality ingredients, and from there, lets the food do the talking. No overdone sauces to mask the flavor, just delicious food every time. The restaurant’s custom-designed “Bincho” charcoal grill is a staple used to prepare many of the meals.
43 W. 9th Avenue
303.454.0000
CharcoalDining.com

Chart House
Exquisite cuisine and a spectacular view of the Denver area top the list at this long-standing local favorite. Located just half an hour from downtown Denver, it features an impressive selection of mouthwatering entrées, wines, cocktails and decadent desserts.
25908 Genesee Trail Rd., Golden
303.526.9813
Chart-House.com

Cholon Modern Asian Bistro
Named after the largest market in Saigon, this historic LoDo restaurant offers a creative spin on traditional Asian dishes along with handcrafted cocktails that enhance the vibrant flavors. The large projection screen in the lounge makes ChoLon a suitable location for business meetings and presentations.
1555 Blake St., Ste. 101
303.353.5223
Cholon.com/denver

Colt & Gray
Enjoy everything from juicy burgers and beer to delectable lobster dishes complemented by vintage wines at this cozy local pub. The classic setting is augmented by the affordability of a neighborhood restaurant that prides itself on superior food and service.
1553 Platte St., No. 120
303.477.1447
ColtAndGray.com

Coohills
With a focus on local, regional, and farm-fresh ingredients, this LoDo hotspot invites you to relax in its uniquely modern, European setting. Enjoy crudo salads, cheese or salumi selections or warm cassoulets served before, during or even after plates of pasta, fresh seafood, grilled or smoked meats, and locally grown vegetables. You can pull up to the community table, tuck in at your own intimate table or enjoy the outdoor terrace for a spirited drink.
1400 Wewatta St.
303.623.5700
Coohills.com

Cool River Café
With a warm, casually elegant ambiance, Cool River Café offers a dining experience that caters to all the senses. Savor American classics including sizzling steaks and tasty seafood recipes while enjoying happy hour and martini specials. Visit Cool River for lunch, dinner, cocktails or brunch.
8000 E. Belleview Ave., Ste. C10
303.771.4117
CoolRiverCafe.com

Cucina Colore
Cucina Colore has been a local favorite for years, and recently underwent a renovation that is truly a knockout. If pasta is your thing, Cucina Colore never disappoints, whether it’s wood-fired pizza or a great serving of pasta or fish. But leave room for dessert, because the signature bread pudding is truly unbeatable.
3041 E. Third Ave.
303.393.6917
cucinacolore.com

The Curtis Club
Chef Eric Johnson has designed a menu that appeals to every taste, presented in a cool urban setting that is a bit off the beaten path for locals. Entrees are meticulously prepared to look as inviting as they taste, and are a far cry from your standard club fare. Make sure to check out the décor — original, fun and interesting.
2100 Curtis Street
720.420.9898
TheCurtisClub.com

Del Frisco Grille
A refreshing update to the classic bar and grill, the newly opened Del Frisco’s Grille in Cherry Creek North is simply delicious. Order some cheese steak eggrolls or ahi tacos and enjoy them with a glass of wine or handcrafted cocktail. Or stay true to the Del Frisco concept and indulge in a prime cut of beef cooked just the way you want it.
100 St. Paul St.
303.320.8529
delfriscosgrille.com/cherry-creek

Dos Santos
Authentic Mexican fare is the theme of this fun taqueria, which has quickly become a local favorite. The menu is simple, straightforward and delicious, but it’s the brunch that has people talking. The Mexican Doughnuts are divine, made of cinnamon-sugar churros with Mexican chocolate ganache, vanilla crema and honey-glazed bacon bits. Yum!
1475 E. 17th Ave.
303.386.3509
dossantosdenver.com

Duo Restaurant
This farm-to-table treasure is tucked away in one of Denver’s hippest neighborhoods and offers a relaxed and unassuming environment. A word of advice: Save room for dessert. Yasmin Lozada-Hissom, Duo’s renowned pastry chef, presents magical treats to top off any meal.
2413 W. 32nd Ave.
303.477.4141
DuoDenver.com

Eat + Drink
A wine and cheese emporium offering more than 100 artisan cheeses, gourmet foods and lots of wines. Located in LoHi, this is a great place to grab a quick lunch or enjoy some wine and cheese on a warm summer night.
1541 Platte Street
303.477.3288
EatDrinkIncDenver.com

Euclid Hall Bar & Kitchen
Located in historic Euclid Hall, this American tavern specializes in fine cocktails, craft beers and innovative, high-quality pub food from around the world. The eatery is a convenient location for Pepsi Center attendees, LoDo club-goers and Denver Center for the Performing Arts patrons.
1317 14th St.
303.595.4255
EuclidHall.com

Finn’s Manor
We have to tell you about this unique venue, which is a tribute to whisky drinkers everywhere. With a focus on whisky and rum-based cocktails, the three partners utilize fare from four food trucks to complement the cocktails. The result: a culinary adventure, which pairs tastes of The Philippines, the South, Jamaica, the Caribbean and Asia.
2927 Larimer St.
finnsmanor.net

Frasca
Named after friendly, informal gathering places in the Friuli-Venezia-Giulia region of northeast Italy, Frasca features exquisitely prepared fare and a comprehensive wine list boasting more than 200 varieties. Warm, welcoming and unpretentious, it is the perfect destination for impromptu gatherings, casual dinners and special occasions.
1738 Pearl St., Boulder
303.442.696
FrascaFoodAndWine.com

Fruition
Chef Alex Siedel, named one of Food & Wine’s best new chefs of 2010, creates a seasonal menu of sophisticated comfort food using only the highest quality, local ingredients. Fruition’s symphony of mood, service and cuisine reflect a grace that elevates this dining experience to a new level.
1313 E. 6th Ave.
303.831.1962
FruitionRestaurant.com

Fuel Café
Located in the oh-so-hip Taxi district near downtown Denver, Fuel Café is a great place for small groups or larger parties. Featuring small plates and great drinks, this is the type of restaurant that brings out the best parts of eating out, whether you’re in the mood for a great brunch, steak or chicken or an interesting medley of small plates.
3455 Ringsby Court
303.996.6988
FuelCafeDenver.com

Go Fish
In the heart of the trendy blocks of Broadway, just minutes from downtown, Go Fish offers creative Asian appetizers, entrees, noodle and rice specialties. The sushi and sashimi are innovative and delicious and great for vegetarians. The contemporary interior is a perfect blend of eclectic and chic.
1 Broadway
303.733.8881
GoFishDenver.com

Hapa Sushi Grill & Sake Bar
Hapa’s menu reflects a harmonious blend of Asian and American cultures. Traditional Japanese cooking fundamentals are amplified, muted or mixed with other styles to create something completely new and different. Multiple locations.
2780 E. 2nd Ave.
303.322.9554
HapaSushi.com

Humboldt Farm Fish Wine
Chefs DJ Nagle and Kollin Gandy are all about serving up the freshest, tastiest food possible, whether it’s a simple salad or a sumptuous dish of lobster spaghetti. From the down-home to the downright delicious, this is one restaurant that will surprise you with the preparation, making you wonder how food that sounds so simple can taste so great? Ingredients are mostly local, and produce, farm and fish are prepared onsite on a daily basis.
1700 Humboldt Street
303.813.1700
HumboldtRestaurant.com

Hutch & Spoon
For a fun respite from a busy day, make your way over to Hutch & Spoon, where chef/owner Tracy Zimmer is hard at work designing ever-changing menus that reflect her commitment to fresh ingredients made in just the right way. The casual atmosphere is great for relaxing over a great cup of coffee or a grilled cheese and peach chutney sandwich. The food is fresh, the ambience inviting, and a great choice for breakfast or lunch.
3090 Larimer Street
303.296.2317
HutchAndSpoon.com

Il Posto
Glance into the open-air kitchen as Milanese chef and owner Andrea Frizzi prepares dishes inspired by northern Italian recipes at Il Posto. The resident sommelier selects the perfect wine for any meal. And the ever-changing menu features local organic produce and meats, along with fresh seafood flown in daily.
2011 E. 17th Ave.
303.394.0100
IlPostoDenver.com

Ivy At The Glenn
This is a great addition to southeast Denver’s restaurant scene. It features a new concept, developed by the founder of Footer’s Restaurant and Baur’s Ristorante, and combines classic comfort food with a warm, inviting ambiance.
6955 S. York St., Centennial
303.730.7200
IvyAtTheGlenn.com

Izakaya Den
A popular Japanese gastropub with global cuisine, their tapas-style menu features traditional Japanese plates and dishes inventively infused with international flavor. The creative spin on sushi offers delicious rolls and refreshing cocktails in an understated, upscale ambiance.
1518 S. Pearl St.
303.777.0691
IzakayaDen.net

Jing
This is an elegant Modern Chinese restaurant which stretches the margins of traditional Chinese fare. Specializing in Asian-fusion, the seafood and small plates are especially remarkable. Don’t miss the ultra-chic cocktail lounge, featuring a mesmerizing ambience with extraordinary specialty drinks. Located in Landmark Square, just minutes from major Denver Tech Center office parks and hotels, Jing is open 7 days a week.
5370 Greenwood Plaza Blvd.
303-779-6888
JingRestaurant.com

The Kitchen
Enjoy the spirit of the family kitchen in this neighborhood restaurant. This spot serves exceptional contemporary American cuisine with local, organic ingredients and is deeply committed to eco-friendly practices and the community.
Boulder:
1039 Pearl St.
303.544.5973
Denver:
1530 16th St.
303.623.3127
TheKitchenCommunity.com

The Kitchen Next Door
This community pub is located in the beautifully renovated Union Station in downtown Denver. From classic sandwiches to creative salads, the menu is full of fresh eats enhanced by the open atmosphere. The Kitchen offers a variety of Colorado craft beers on tap, plus great specials during “Community Hour” from 3 to 6 p.m. every day.
1701 Wynkoop Street (Union Station),
South of the Great Hall
720.460.3730
TheKitchen.com/Next-Door-Union-Station

La Biblioteca Denver
Internationally heralded chef Richard Sandoval has taken his well-regarded Manhattan concept “the Library of Tequila” and created an eclectic menu of Latin-Asian specialties. The intimate venue boasts a massive collection of tequilas, mezcals and agave spirits, and food ranges from sushi to tacos to small plates.
1610 Little Raven Street
720.904.0965
RichardSandoval.com/LaBibliotecaDenver

La Cour
Their website sums it up best: The Monley family and friends, with members who live in Denver and Paris, decided to share their love affair with France — and the way that fine food, drink and art can elevate a person’s senses. A unique and fun place featuring local and imported meats, cheeses and breads. Affordable French wines and great art make this a great way to spend a few hours.
1643 S. Broadway
303.777.5000
DenversArtBar.com

Leña
Nestled in an intimate cozy setting, Leña is a Latin American-inspired restaurant that emphasizes sharing and communal dining. The venue’s focal point is the white oak, wood-fired grill that serves up a tempting assortment of grilled meats, seafood and vegetables. The tortillas and empañadas are homemade, and the traditional offerings represent South and Central America, Spain and Mexico.
24 Broadway
720.550.7267
lenadenver.com

Linger
The vibrant international cuisine at Linger reflects a broad farm-to-table sensibility with a spin on traditional ethnic eats. Design elements create a purposeful contradiction, featuring reclaimed boxcar floors, a Lite Brite bar top and infinity windows with incredible views of downtown Denver.
2020 W. 30th Ave.
303.993.3120
LingerDenver.com

Little Ollie’s
The big sister to Jing, Little Ollie’s has been voted the best Chinese food in Denver by newspapers and magazines for the past 11 years of their 17-year history. MSG-free, Chinese made fresh is their stamp of excellence; the Peking duck a highlight. Little Ollie’s patio is open year round and abounds with flowers in the summer months.
2364 E. 3rd Ave.
303-316-8888
LittleOlliesCherryCreek.com

Lola Mexican Fish House
Just a scenic stroll or a few minutes cab ride from downtown, Lola Mexican Fish House offers everything from custom guacamole mixed tableside to a varied array of remarkable, fresh entrees reminiscent of coastal Mexico. Patio seating, terrific weekend brunch and tantalizing cocktails are also a part of what makes Lola Mexican Fish House the place to be.
1575 Boulder Street
720-570-8686
LolaDenver.com

Los Chingones
Restaurateur Troy Guard’s foray into the world of Mexican food is really all about tacos, and his selections are drawing rave reviews. Locals are going gaga over the octopus tacos, the shrimp tacos, the butternut squash tacos. Pretty much everything you would never dream of putting in a taco has made its way into one at Los Chingones, and the result is wonderful. It’s not a fancy place, it’s just plain fun.
2461 Larimer Street
303-295-0686
LosChingonesMexican.com

Lower48 Kitchen
The name pays homage to the lower 48 states and foods special to these regions. This theme is carried through in the décor, which represents modern America. The heritage of the nation is evidenced throughout, with modern accents to round out the interest. The menu changes daily, and you can always be assured it will be something delicious.
2020 Lawrence Street
303-942-0262
Lower48Kitchen.com

Luca D’Italia
Zagat once named this bistro the top Italian restaurant in the western United States. The food is lovingly prepared, thoughtfully served and thoroughly enjoyed. A seasonally changing menu features Sicilian-style meats, pastas, breads and cheeses all prepared fresh in-house.
711 Grant St.
303.832.6600
LucaDenver.com

McCormick’s Fish House & Bar
Demonstrating culinary excellence, McCormick’s menu features seafood from the Pacific, Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. Products are sourced from local ranches, farms and wineries to showcase regionally inspired dishes. Stop by and enjoy award-winning happy hour specials.
1659 Wazee St.
303.825.1107
MccormickAndSchmicks.com

Mizuna
One of the top-rated restaurants in the country, Mizuna gives its chefs a wide creative berth when it comes to the monthly changing menu. Sample new versions of old recipes, unique food combinations and a stellar wine list for lunch and dinner.
225 E. 7th Ave.
303.832.4778
MizunaDenver.com

Mercantile Dining & Provision
Acclaimed chef Alex Seidel takes diners on a culinary journey featuring fresh Colorado ingredients, many farmed from Fruition Farms artisanal sheep dairy and creamery. Located in Union Station, the atmosphere is hip, friendly and urban. Alex Seidel gained a following as owner of the award-winning Fruition Restaurant, and now takes diners to a new level of inspired eating.
1701 Wynkoop Street
720.460.3733
MercantileDenver.com

North Italia
The flavors of Italy come alive at this restaurant that is part of Fox Restaurant Concepts. Long a staple of the lively Cherry Creek North shopping area, North consistently serves up some mouthwatering Italian fare. Featuring a great variety of small plates, and excellent entrees, pizzas and pastas.
190 Clayton Lane
720.941.7700
NorthItaliaRestaurant.com

OAK at Fourteenth
Combining features of Colorado’s rustic past with Boulder’s contemporary foodie scene, OAK at Fourteenth offers exquisite New American cuisine. Chef and owner Steven Redzikowski creates seasonally inspired menus centered on locally grown vegetables, locally sourced meats, sustainably raised seafood and house-made pastas. Co-owner Bryan Dayton is passionate about mixology, meaning the bar offers a variety of creative, handcrafted cocktails.
1400 Pearl Street, Boulder
303.444.3622
OakAtFourteenth.com

Old Major
When a restaurant prides itself on serving sustainable cuisine, that definition can be all over the board. Not so at Old Major, a venue that cures its farm-raised meats in-house, serves sustainable seafood and sources ingredients from local farms. An experience in contemporary farmhouse cuisine.
3316 Tejon Street
720.420.0622
OldMajorDenver.com

Olive + Finch
For a delicious alternative to a heavy meal, Olive & Finch is inspired by European cafes that excel in locally handcrafted, fresh food. This charming marketplace and eatery serves sublime fresh-baked pastries, artisan sandwiches, soups and salads, made from scratch using organic and locally sourced produce.
1552 E. 17th Ave.
303.832.8663
OliveAndFinchEatery.com

Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox
Billed as a “gastro-brothel”, this recent addition to the dining scene is housed in a former brothel/peep-show venue. Owner Justin Cucci is no stranger to great dining; in fact he has two of Denver’s most popular restaurants to his credit, Root Down and Linger. The menu is as interesting and eclectic as the space, with all types of food and cocktails to match the amazing, adventurous space.
1215 20th St.
303.993.8023
opheliasdenver.com

Osaka Ramen
Chef Jeff Osaka is an icon in the local culinary scene, having honed his skill alongside some of the best chefs on the West Coast. His ramen noodle bowls are not to be missed, and he continues to wow diners with his innovative melding of flavors and ingredients. Yes, this is a true ramen restaurant, but it’s oh, so much more! This Spring, Ramen introduces a new emporium in Lower Downtown … stay tuned!
2817 E. Third Ave.
303.393.6917
osakaramendenver.com

Osteria Marco
With classic hand-tossed Italian pizza, an extensive and accessible wine selection, housecrafted meats and cheeses and rustic elegance, this restaurant is classic osteria. This playful little brother of the high-end Luca d’Italia continues the tradition of quality and impeccable service.
1453 Larimer St.
303.534.5855
OsteriaMarco.com

Ototo
Newly reopened Ototo offers diners an intimate setting to enjoy Japanese robata-style tapas, sashimi, grilled whole fish and noodles. A robota grill with bincho-tan charcoal infuses a distinct flavor into the food, and an extensive raw bar features catch of the day – fresh and on point. Ototo is the creation of Toshi Kizaki, a well-known fixture of Denver’s culinary scene for more than 30 years.
1501 S. Pearl St.
303.733.2503
ototoden.com

Palace Arms
Located in the Brown Palace Hotel, this award-winning restaurant blends contemporary American cuisine with an exceptional wine selection. Signature items include a tableside Caesar salad, seared Colorado bison steak and other creative, contemporary and traditional dishes.
321 17th St.
303.297.3111
BrownPalace.com/Dining/Palace-Arms

Panzano
Decorated chef Elise Wiggins offers excellent contemporary northern Italian cuisine. Each handmade dish is unique and made with local, organic, sustainable ingredients. An award-winning wine list features hand-selected pairings that will please even the most discriminating palate.
909 17th St.
303.296.3525
Panzano-Denver.com

Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
This restaurant is all about fresh seafood and bold New Orleans flavors. Even Louisiana natives consider this one of the best places to get Cajun cuisine away from home. With friendly service and a lively atmosphere, the only thing more authentic than the dishes is the Southern hospitality.
7520 E. Progress Ave.
303.740.9449
Pappadeaux.com

P17
Billing itself as a neighborhood bistro, P17 has a huge base of fans who come for the experience and return for the great food. This is a place that is casual enough to attract the neighborhood crowd, yet chef/owner Mary Nguyen’s creative technique draws people from across town and across the country. She is a masterful chef, and her talent is reflected in her creative dishes.
1600 17th Avenue
303.399.0988
P17Denver.com

The Plimoth
The menus are constantly changing at The Plimoth, as the restaurant’s team of talented, creative chefs continue creating food that is fun, fresh and flavorful. Whether your taste runs toward a smoked salmon salad, smoked pastrami tartine or creatively prepared steak, you won’t be disappointed when you order items that taste as good as they sound.
2335 28th Avenue
303.297.1215
ThePlimoth.com

The Populist
This gem of a restaurant has won kudos for so many reasons: the sense of community created by the numerous community tables, the creatively prepared small plates that are simply meant to be savored and shared, and the wonderful food and wine. The menu is fun, the drinks are fun, the experience is … well … fun!
3163 Larimer Street
720.432.3163
The PopulistDenver.com

Postino WineCafe
The concept is simple: pair unique, approachable wines with simple foods prepared with local ingredients. This wonderful venue originated in Arcadia, CA and each location pays homage to the surrounding environment. The LoHi location is a reflection of the edgy and vibrant culture, but the menu is understated and great, featuring soups, salads and paninis.
2715 17th St., LoHi
303.433.6363
postinowinecafe.com

Potager
Patrons partake in the excitement of vegetables fresh from the earth, fruit right off the branch and fish straight from the sea. Cuisine is determined largely by the availability of ingredients that meet Potager’s high standards of quality and eco-friendliness.
1109 Ogden Ave.
303.832.5788
PotagerRestaurant.com

Racine’s
This has been one of the area’s favorite spots for everything from breakfast to late night since opening in 1983. Serving a tried-and-true mix of award-winning American and Mexican cuisine, Racine’s is also gluten-free. Located between the Cherry Creek area and downtown Denver.
650 Sherman St.
303.595.0418
RacinesRestaurant.com

range
A very cool Colorado-themed restaurant, housed in an even cooler setting: an historic bank turned hotel, right in the middle of downtown Denver. The delicious food matches the incomparable setting, the bar scene is fun and the sea scallops are not to be missed! Oh, and desserts are awesome too.
918 17th Street
720.726.4800
rangeDowntown.com

Revelry Kitchen
Housed in the bustling Berkeley neighborhood, Revelry Kitchen is a great place for breakfast and lunch (and of course brunch!). The menu features local ingredients, complemented by Colorado-made beers and spirits. Menu items range from a daily quiche to biscuits and gravy, gravlax with fried capers and mouthwatering enchiladas. And that’s just the beginning!
4140 W. 38th Ave.
303.455.3132
revelrydenver.com

Rioja
Featuring a menu inspired by Mediterranean food and influenced by local ingredients, Rioja offers pure food and bright flavors. With a wine list that offers fun, interesting varietals and a menu that features plenty of vegetarian options, this spot is consistently rated among the top restaurants in Denver.
1431 Larimer St.
303.820.2282
RiojaDenver.com

Root Down
The Root Down credo is that food should be sensational, igniting all the senses to create a full dining experience. Following a field to fork mentality, food is as organic, natural and local, as possible, and menus are globally influenced and inspired.
1600 W. 33rd Avenue
303.993.4200
ROOT DOWN DIA
Concourse C at Denver International Airport
303.342.6959
RootDownDenver.com

Session Kitchen
The space itself is totally cool: great art combined with an oh-so-contemporary vibe, offset by lines from song lyrics that spring up in unexpected places. Chef Scott Parker truly has created a wonderful blend of small plates and large plates, that can be enjoyed and relished in “sessions.”
1518 S. Pearl St.
720.763.3387
SessionKitchen.com

Snooze
One of Denver’s favorite A.M. eateries, Snooze offers a fresh take on breakfast classics. Their unique flapjacks set them apart; we recommend the pancake flight so you can try flavors ranging from pineapple upside down pancakes to sweet potato pancakes with caramel and pecans.
1701 Wynkoop Street (Union Station),
North of the Great Hall
303.825.3536
SnoozeEatery.com

Spuntino
Located in the bustling Highlands area, Spuntino serves seasonal Italian-inspired cooking from executive chef John Broening and desserts from pastry chef Yasmin Lozada-Hissom. The menu features fresh ingredients from local farms, sustainably raised seafood, locally sourced meats and housemade pastas and breads.
2639 W. 32nd Ave.
303.433.0949
SpuntinoDenver.com

Squeaky Bean
The name is as playful as The Squeaky Bean concept, which is to take flavor and presentation seriously, but leave plenty of room for fun and inventiveness. The restaurant features an ever-changing menu of seasonal fare, and the majority of the produce and herbs are grown organically in the restaurant’s own gardens.
1500 Wynkoop Street
303.623.2665
TheSqueakyBean.net

Stoic & Genuine
Located in the recently renovated Union Station in Denver’s Lower Downtown neighborhood, Stoic & Genuine has a simple motto: Fresh is everything. This multi-coastal seafood house and oyster bar flies in fresh seafood every day and features an innovative menu. Executive Chef Jennifer Jasinski is also behind three of our other favorite Denver restaurants: Rioja, Bistro Vendôme and Euclid Hall.
1701 Wynkoop Street (Union Station),
South of the Great Hall
303.640.3474
StoicAndGenuine.com

Stout Street Social
Located directly across from the Denver Center for Performing Arts, Stout Street Social is a great before or after-theater destination. It’s also steps away from the Colorado Convention Center. The menu runs the gamut from steak to sushi, along with fresh oysters and even comfort foods. A great dining option right in the heart of downtown Denver.
1400 Stout St.
720.214.9100
StoutStSocial.com

Sugarmill
Chefs Noah French and Troy Guard describe Sugarmill as a dessert lounge with a chef’s counter. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, they offer savory dishes and tasty treats. They specialize in desserts and pastries, but fare ranges from breakfast burritos and gourmet quiche to kale salads and handmade pasta.
2461 Larimer Street
303.297.3540
SugarMillDesserts.com

Sushi Den
Regarded as one of the premier sushi and Japanese restaurants in the U.S. since the mid ’80s, this popular spot continues to set a standard for high-quality cuisine. With its own pesticide-free farm for produce, plus seafood flown in from Japan, Sushi Den leads Denver restaurants in quality.
1487 S. Pearl St.
303.777.0826
SushiDen.net

Table 6
This classic bistro offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Culinary mastery is evidenced in each succulent dish, delivered with elegant style and grace. His nightly fare is complemented by a dynamic wine list created by owner and sommelier Aaron Forman.
609 Corona St.
303.831.8800
Table6Denver.com

Tables
Owners and chefs Amy Vitale and Dustin Barrett transformed this spot into a cozy, eclectic restaurant with personality and charm. The creative New American cuisine and friendly service at Tables are bright spots. Menus are regularly updated to feature the freshest seasonal ingredients.
2267 Kearney St.
303.388.0299
TablesOnKearney.com

Tag
Chef/Owner Troy Guard uses fresh local ingredients to offer a cross-cultural culinary adventure. Guard’s playful cuisine, described as Continental Social Food, melds classic and contemporary styles in a chic urban atmosphere to inspire a sense of community among friends. The menu is unconstrained by national boundaries, drawing from Chef Guard’s Hawaiian rearing and his travels in Asia and Latin America.
1441 Larimer Street
303.996.9985
Tag-Restaurant.com

Tamayo
Highly regarded Chef Richard Sandoval delivers a perfect take on modern Mexican cuisine. Sit at the bar and peruse more than 100 tequilas and agave-based spirits, then get ready to indulge. The menu boasts all the delights of Mexico with a contemporary flair, paying tribute to Chef Sandoval’s deeply rooted ties to his grandmother’s and father’s authentic Mexican cooking.
1400 Larimer Square
720.946.1433
RichardSandoval.com/Tamayo

Trillium
Trillium is an urban eatery centered on rustic cuisine, with dishes rooted in the American and Scandinavian culinary traditions. The building itself is more than 100 years old and once operated as a “wheel and deal” pawnshop. Today, it features the original 14-foot ceilings, an open, exhibition-style kitchen, exposed wooden beams and pressed tin ceilings. The bar is geared towards small wine producers, eclectic beer offerings and handcrafted cocktails.
2134 Larimer Street
303.379.9759
TrilliumDenver.com

Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill
With 52 beers on tap and at least 28 local Colorado brews, Thirsty Lion brings in the crowds who are exploring downtown Denver and Union Station. With menu items such as Traditional Scotch Eggs, you really do feel like you’ve entered an authentic English pub, and the extensive beer list will keep you entertained. So sit back, order up a pint, and watch your favorite sports team on the big screens over the bar.
1605 Wynkoop St.
303.623.0316
ThirstyLionGastropub.com

True Food Kitchen
While it’s obvious that True Food is all about healthy eating, it sure doesn’t taste that way. Meals are full of flavor and the way the restaurant packs in the crowds, it’s pretty obvious people keep coming back for more. The restaurant is dedicated to offering food that tastes good and is good for you .. a winning combination.
2800 E. Second Avenue
720.509.7661
TrueFoodKitchen.com

Venice Ristorante
Enjoy a five-star Venetian dining experience at the three Venice ristorantes (including Venice DTC and Chianti DTC) with the highest of culinary expertise. Enjoy monthly wine dinners, private dining for an event, catering services or a delectable five-course meal. You’ll be amazed by the impeccable service and exquisite authentic Italian cuisine.
1700 Wynkoop St.
303.534.2222
VeniceRistorante.com

Vesta Dipping Grill
Named for the goddess of the hearth, Vesta features chef Matt Selby’s world-grill cuisine in the form of more than 30 housemade dipping sauces, chutneys, salsas, mojos and aiolis, as well as a seasonally changing menu. This award-winning restaurant boasts a sensual ambiance, placing it at the top of Denver foodies’ lists.
1822 Blake St.
303.296.1970
VestaGrill.com

Willie G’s Seafood & Steaks
An upscale seafood and steak restaurant with a loyal following, this downtown hotspot enjoys a national reputation. Enjoy lunch, dinner or fabulous happy hour specials in a comfortably chic atmosphere.
1585 Lawrence St.
303.575.9000
WillieGs.com

Work & Class
Owners Tony, Delores and Dana describe the concept behind their restaurant as “a square meal, a stiff drink and a fair price.” The menu blends American and Latin cuisines seamlessly, leading to savory meats and delicious side dishes. Note: This restaurant is closed on Mondays.
2500 Larimer Street
303.292.0700
WorkAndClassDenver.com

Ya Ya’s
Treat your taste buds to a tour of Europe without the expensive airfare. This lovely bistro caters to the casual diner, with room for business meetings and special occasions. The menu changes daily to ensure the freshest and best quality seafood, steaks, chops and other exquisite entrées.
8310 E. Belleview Ave., Greenwood Village
303.741.1110
YaYasDenver.com

Z Cuisine Bistro
The authentic Parisian eatery is located just minutes from LoDo. It offers a daily blackboard menu featuring genuine French fare made with the best local, organic ingredients. For the full French experience, visit the authentic, on-site absinthe bar.
2239 W. 30th Ave.
303.477.1111
ZCuisineOnline.com

Zengo
Chef/owner Richard Sandoval presents a masterful presentation of Latin-Asian dishes that have made Zengo a staple in Denver’s dining community. Dishes are made for sharing, and once you sample the fare you’ll understand why Bon Appetit named Sandoval Restaurateur of the Year. The décor is lively, the handcrafted cocktails are wildly popular and with more than 100 Tequilas, what more could any diner want?
1610 Little Raven Street
720.904.0965
RichardSandoval.com/ZengoDenver

Front Range Comedy Scene

Published on January 14, 2015 in Front Range Dining & Nightlife by Ellen Gray

Comedy Shows This Month

March 15 :: Louis Johnson, Comedy Works South
17-20 :: Clayton English, Comedy Works Downtown
17 :: Chingo Bling, Improv Comedy Club
18-20 :: Brandon T. Jackson, Improv Comedy Club
19 :: Lewis Black, Bellco Theatre
20 :: Kevin Fitzgerald, Comedy Works South
22 :: Adrian Mesa, Comedy Works South
23 :: The Pump & Dump, Comedy Works South
24-26 :: Greg Fitzsimmons, Comedy Works Downtown
24-26 :: Guy Terry, Improv Comedy Club
24-26 :: Leslie Jones, Comedy Works South
29 :: Chris Voth, Comedy Works South
30 :: Todd Johnson, Comedy Works South
30 :: Medium Cindy Kaza, Improv Comedy Club
31 :: Deacon Gray, Comedy Works Downtown
31 :: Caroline Rea, Comedy Works South
31-April 3 :: John Henton, Improv Comedy Club

Comedy Clubs

Comedy Works, comedyworks.com
Voodoo Comedy Playhouse, voodoocomedy.com
Improv Comedy Club, improv.com
Bovine Metropolis Theater, bovinemetropolis.com
Dangerous Theatre, dangeroustheatre.com
Avenue Theater, avenuetheater.com
Madcap Theater, madcapimprov.com

GOLDEN, COLORADO SHINES OUT WEST

by BRITTANY BANDEMER

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Comedy Shows This Month

Comedy Clubs

Comedy Works, comedyworks.com Voodoo Comedy Playhouse, voodoocomedy.com Improv Comedy Club, improv.com Bovine Metropolis Theater, bovinemetropolis.com Dangerous Theatre, dangeroustheatre.com Avenue Theater, avenuetheater.com Madcap Theater, madcapimprov.com

Comedy Works, comedyworks.com
Voodoo Comedy Playhouse, voodoocomedy.com
Improv Comedy Club, improv.com
Bovine Metropolis Theater, bovinemetropolis.com
Dangerous Theatre, dangeroustheatre.com
Avenue Theater, avenuetheater.com
Madcap Theater, madcapimprov.com