Beatrice & Woodsley
1) A Decade of Beatrice & Woodsley
In the past decade, Denver’s culinary landscape has changed drastically. New restaurants are opening their doors just as quickly as others are permanently closing theirs. This dizzying shuffle makes the spots with staying power all the more impressive. Among those dining pillars is Beatrice & Woodsley, a perennial favorite that transports guests to an enchanted forest with rustic accents and cabin-inspired décor. By utilizing simple ingredients and carefully executed techniques, the new American menu offers something fresh and seasonal. The restaurant’s beautiful surrounds and imaginative food creates a narrative unlike any other in the city. This is exactly why Beatrice & Woodsley has endured since 2008 and will celebrate its 10th anniversary in the coming months. Cheers to Beatrice & Woodsley, a local haunt that’s proven to be a mainstay. beatriceandwoodsley.com
Hideaway Steakhouse
2) Hideaway Steakhouse: A Hidden Gem
At Hideaway Steakhouse in Westminster, fine dining melds with comfort in perfect harmony. Swathed in warm woods, soft lighting, and natural elements, diners can sink into a state of relaxation. Perfect for all occasions, gather for an intimate family dinner near the fireplace or sit in a secluded booth for a romantic rendezvous. Though celebrated for their hand-cut prime steaks, grilled over lumpwood charcoal, Hideaway Steakhouse also offers an eclectic variety of seafood dishes and a twist on familiar comfort foods. For a special evening, stop by for Wine-Down-Wednesday and relish in a three-course, chef-inspired dinner for two, while sampling the restaurant’s extensive wine list. Surrounded by tree groves and open fields, Hideaway Steakhouse is true to its name—a hidden gem perfect for an evening getaway. hideawaysteakhouse.com
Señor Bear
3) Introducing Señor Bear’s Chef de Cuisine: Sebastian Ramirez-Lohner
This past June, the Señor Bear team welcomed Chef de Cuisine Sebastian Ramirez-Lohner. From an early age, Chef Ramirez-Lohner was bitten by the hospitality bug. Born to industry folks, Chef Ramirez-Lohner’s grandfather helped to open multiple restaurants and hotels in Puerto Rico in the late 1940s. Following the family tradition, Chef Ramirez-Lohner studied at the Culinary Institute of America before traveling back to the island to open his flagship restaurant Parcela Gastropub in 2014. Celebrating the bounty of the island, 90-percent of Parcela’s menu utilized local products and produce. However, after the destruction of Hurricane Maria, the supply chain was destroyed, forcing him to close up shop. Luckily, the chef was able to land on his feet with the help of Denver restaurateur, Juan Padro. The duo met through a mutual friend a few years back; both Juan and Katie Padro made many visits to Parcela during their trips to Puerto Rico. After the hurricane, both men were working on the island to help with relief efforts when Padro reached out about participating in the Escape Series—a monthly dinner series at Señor Bear that highlights food from Latin America. With a philanthropic slant—proceeds from the dinner went to nonprofit organization, Water Is Life—Chef Ramirez-Lohner flew out to Colorado to showcase the flavors of his heritage. A week after he landed back in Puerto Rico, Padro offered him a position, and the rest is history. “I want to showcase a little bit of the magic that is my island Puerto Rico, so that people will want to jump on a plane to San Juan and explore the island to the fullest!” says Chef Ramirez-Lohner. senorbeardenver.com
4) Mouthwatering Bites at Oskar Blues
At most brew pubs, the food is an afterthought, but at Oskar Blues, craft beer and live music meet stunningly fresh ingredients in a pairing that stands apart from the crowd. The Colorado-born-and-bred restaurant now has outposts in Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, Longmont, and Lyons, so getting a taste of that pairing is as convenient as ordering an Uber. The expansive menu, created by Executive Chef Jason Rogers and Chef de Cuisine Michael Chance, is based in southern influences. Take for instance Tom Waits’ Seafood Jambalaya, complete with chicken, shrimp, andouille sausage, crawfish, and mussels. While every menu item pairs exceptionally well with Oskar Blues’ handcrafted beers, some of Chef Rodgers favorites include Bacon Candy, Grilled Oysters, and Bourbon Balls for dessert. The restaurant has a new late-night menu to capture the hearts of fellow industry folks and concertgoers looking for a standout post-show meal. oskarbluesfooderies.com
Aloy Thai
5) Bangkok Bites and Thailand Traditions at Aloy Thai and Aloy Modern Thai
In 2006, Sorawee Naka and her daughters, Arisa and Bo, left their home in Thailand to put down roots in Boulder, introducing an authentic take on Bangkok cuisine with Aloy Thai. With a deep respect for sustainable living, the restaurant’s menu recreates cherished family recipes of Sorawee’s own creation, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Committed to farm-to-table dining, the family hopes to eventually own a farm that is large enough to provide fresh produce for not only the restaurant, but the entire Boulder community. For the summer season, Aloy Thai has a new menu with options like Fried Ginger Chicken and Pineapple Shrimp Ceviche. After 10 years of success, the women behind Aloy Thai opened a second location, Aloy Modern Thai, in Denver’s LoDo district in 2016, continuing to share the flavors of their homeland. aloythai.com; aloymodernthai.com
Archetype Distillery
6) Strip Down and Spice Up Classic Cocktails at Archetype Distillery
Located in the historic Webber Show theater house in the Baker neighborhood, Archetype Distillery is looking to resurrect the building’s iconic status as a cultural icon through its mission “to raise Denver’s spirits, one drink at a time.” Archetype Distillery (a traditional meets modern distillery) has cocktail crafting down to a science. By employing modern techniques and utilizing specialty equipment, the team adds a splash of innovation to tried-and-true recipes. The tasting room allows guests to sample the distillery’s award-winning Archangel Vodka and Archrival Gin in a variety of carefully concocted drink options, like The Cat’s Out of the Bag (a gin gimlet with housemade lemon distillate and charcoal) or The Short Island Iced Tini, featuring both Archangel and Archrival and cola cardamom seed syrup. Learn more about the distillery by taking a tour or booking a class to explore the history of gin or vodka. You’ll even get to practice alongside a drinksmith in crafting your own cocktails. archetypedistillery.com
The Bindery
7) Housemade Pasta at The Bindery
Before The Bindery became official, the team behind it all asked, “What do the people of Denver need that’s missing?” The answer: culinary excellence geared toward a busy lifestyle. Looking at artisans and food-makers around the world, the restaurant combined the best of European bakeries, corner neighborhood markets, and lively eateries into a beautiful and sustainably designed restaurant. Just like that, The Bindery was born. Chef/Owner Linda Hampsten Fox’s new spring dinner menu will satiate diners’ hunger pangs with creative dishes inspired by her travels abroad. From shared plates and small dishes to fresh pasta and meat-centric entrées, there is something for everyone. With a housemade pasta program, it’s hard to resist items like the Heirloom Carrot Ravioli with parsley and carrot top butter or Pappardelle al Trapenese with lamb, tomatoes, calabrian chilies, and mint. Whatever you end up selecting, we promise you won’t regret it. thebinderydenver.com
Brightmarten
8) Welcome to the neighborhood: Brightmarten
While looking for somewhere to plant new culinary roots earlier this year, restaurant veteran, Chef Jake Grant and his partners sought more than just a place to open a restaurant, but rather a community. They found just that in one of Denver’s oldest sectors: Bonnie Brae. The cozy and charming neighborhood takes its name from the Scottish Highlands, translating to “Pleasant Hill.” In hopes of building a culture that complemented the community, Brightmarten made its debut this past April. Brightmarten serves cherished American comfort food with the occasional touch of elegance, for a relaxing and delicious dining experience—think Cured Pork Chop and French Onion Beef. From the bar, sample a vast array of local brews, wine, and cocktails. “Happiest Hour” is offered on weekdays from 3-6pm, and late-night snacks include quick bites like Popcorn Scallops and Bacon Cheese Fries. brightmarten.com
10 Barrel
9) Summer Fun at 10 Barrel Brewing Company
There is nothing more fun than being outdoors with an ice cold beer in the company of friends. 10 Barrel Brewing Company has a rooftop bar and deck, outfitted with high top tables and pendant lights hanging overhead, for that exact reason. Want to take the party indoors? There are plenty of options, including bar seating and tables, as well as a semi-private event space. Whether you dine in or up top, the brewpub’s Executive Chef, Kiel Ard, will wow with elevated pub fare that’s out-of-this-world delicious. Wash it down with any one of the 24 creations on tap, ranging from West Coast-style IPAs to saisons. Here’s to good friends, good beer, and fun times at 10 Barrel Brewing Company. 10barrel.com
Parisi
10) Edible Nostalgia at Parisi and Firenze a Tavola
Want a taste of Italy without traveling abroad? Parisi, a fast-casual Italian eatery and market, and Firenze a Tavola, a fine dining restaurant and wine bar directly below Parisi, are your answers. The owners were so inspired by their experiences living in Florence, Italy, that they decided to bring the flavors they fell in love with to Denver. Both concepts adhere to two rules: keep things simple and authentic. You can find everything from thin-crust pizzas and housemade pastas to fresh salads and pastries. Whether you dine in or take away, you’ll get a taste of ‘edible nostalgia,’ as owner Christine Parisi likes to call it. “The point of creating both restaurants was to recreate a bit of the culture we loved very much,” she smiles. parisidenver.com
Mercantile
11) Best Chef of Southwest: Alex Seidel
This past May, Chef/Restaurateur Alex Seidel was among the many star-studded chefs at Lyric Opera House in Chicago for the prestigious James Beard Awards, aka “the Oscars of the food world.” Nominated for Best Chef: Southwest since 2008, Seidel arrived at the ceremony this year without an acceptance speech. Turns out this was the year he needed it. A well-deserved victory, Seidel has been instrumental to the growth of Denver’s dining scene as his restaurants, Fruition Restaurant and Mercantile dining & provision, have received nods from the Beard awards nearly every year for the past decade. Forever humble, Seidel shares his win with the number of chefs and restaurateurs who have helped to cultivate the scene. “Winning the Beard award brings validation to Colorado’s dining scene—a scene that’s been growing for years because of contributions from so many people—and that feels awesome,” said Seidel. Moving forward, Seidel is continuing to lead the charge on innovation in the culinary realm, evidenced by the 4th annual Mercantile Invitational on September 19. Kicking off the Great American Beer Festival, Seidel personally invites six chefs from across the country for a farm-to-fork beer dinner. Be on the lookout for the chef and brewery lineup by visiting mercantiledenver.com.
Cherry Cricket
12) Cherry Cricket Expands to the Ballpark
Cherry Cricket, Denver’s iconic burger joint, has been flipping award-winning burgers since 1945. While plenty has changed around its original location in Cherry Creek, the restaurant continues its epic popularity by serving the classic combo of delicious burgers and local beers that made it famous in the first place. Now Ballpark residents can get a bite of what everyone has loved for 73 years, thanks to a second location just steps away from Coors Field. The new location, which opened this past April, offers guests the same intriguing menu that has come to define the concept, but with new features, including brunch, to-go options, and a late night menu available until 3am for hungry night owls. Now that’s what we call a home run. cherrycricket.com
River and Woods
13) The Lunching Hour at River & Woods
Cure midday hankerings with a visit to River & Woods. Stop in from 11am-2pm on weekdays for a big taste of Colorado comfort food. Stomach already rumbling? Satisfy any craving with The River and Dagwood. Piled high with organic turkey and slow cooked French ham, this monstrous double-decker sammie also boasts a layer of mac and cheese and another of mashed potatoes, all of it drizzled with sage gravy. But if sides are more your style, order the Lunch Tray Special served with half a sandwich, fries or a crispy sweet potato, soup or a side salad, and (if you still have room) a churro or cookie for dessert. riverandwoodsboulder.com
Viale Pizza & Kitchen
14) Everything You Need Under One Roof: Viale Pizza & Kitchen
Amid restaurant chains in Virginia Village off Colorado Boulevard is Viale Pizza & Kitchen: an upscale, mom-and-pop pizzeria that serves specialty pies and “Build Your Own” creations, and then some. Here, guests will find everything from fresh salads and soups to pastas, gourmet sandwiches, fresh fish entrées (like the Grilled Salmon and Seared Diver Scallops), and more. The best part? It’s all Colorado-centric cuisine, meaning that ingredients are locally-sourced whenever possible. Additionally, guests can pair their food item of choice with a high-end glass of wine or a handcrafted cocktail, courtesy of the restaurant’s full bar. Whether you pop in for happy hour or an intimate dinner for two, the restaurant’s décor—a mixture of exposed brick walls with rustic, wooden accents—creates a cozy atmosphere complemented by a gracious team of hospitality experts. vpkdenver.com
Heifer and Hen
15) Summertime scoops (and then Some) at Heifer and The Hen
Scoop outside the box at Heifer and The Hen. Crafted from the hands of Ian Clark (Owner and Chef/Brewer of gastro-brewery BRU handbuilt ales & eats, located right next door), the shop swirls up the classics, as well as unique creations from Vietnamese Coffee to the trendy Golden Milk. Scooping for all palates, the ice cream shop includes eight dairy-free and sorbet options, including Peach Sorbet, and even has gluten-free cones on order. Summertime relief calls for ice cream sammies like the Graham Cracker + S’more Ice Cream or the Brown Sugar Annie’s Organic Toaster Pastry served with a dollop of Maple Ice Cream. Snag a sandwich on Sandwich Sunday for only $4. Cool down on the patio or sip and swing on one of the three wooden swings anchored at the bar. heiferandthehen.com
Tony Roma’s
16) Tony Roma’s is the Place for Ribs
There is nothing more satiating than rich, fall-off-the-bone ribs on a warm summer day (or any day, in our humble opinion). Aptly nicknamed “The Place for Ribs,” Tony Roma’s has perfected the recipe for mouth-wateringly delicious ‘cue. With two locations in Denver—one in Downtown Denver and the other at The Timbers Hotel on Peoria Street—Denverites can get a helping of barbecue any day of the week. In addition to their world-famous baby back ribs, the menu also boasts steak and seafood-centric entrées, burgers, sandwiches, soups, and salads. Whatever you decide on ordering, we highly recommend pairing it with the Classic Romarita®—a refreshing twist on the margarita that doesn’t disappoint. tonyromas.com
Lola Coastal Mexican
17) IN: Julio Gaspar as Chef de Cocina at Lola Coastal Mexican
Hailing from Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Julio Gaspar’s affinity for Latin cuisine has proven to be the perfect fit for Lola Coastal Mexican. From a tender age, Gaspar spent his days cooking fresh catches of the day alongside his mother in his family’s restaurant. Traveling stateside to start his career, Gaspar trained in the kitchens of New York before relocating to Los Angeles, working under the tutelage of Chef Paul Shoemaker and Richard Sandoval. Under the Sandoval umbrella, Gaspar manned both Zengo and La Sandia in Denver before joining the Lola family as Chef de Cocina last December. With world-class cooking skills and a passion for Mexican cuisine, Gaspar has introduced tastes of Oaxaca to the LoHi haunt with seafood-centric dishes, including the Shrimp Escondido with citrus poached sweet pink shrimp, simmering in a in-house clamato-burnt orange broth; or the Grilled Swordfish, complemented with mango-habanero to the charred Grilled Swordfish, swathed in mango-habanero salsa and jalapeño-basil oil. Experience the flavors of Oaxaca without leaving Denver at Lola Mexican Kitchen. loladenver.com
Café Brazil
18) Shh…Café Brazil has a secret lunch
Café Brazil’s marriage of Bahian (Brazilian) and Colombian cuisine has long excited Denver’s taste buds. 25 years and counting, the north Denver jewel is still finding ways to keep us on our toes. For those in the know, Café Brazil hosts a secretive mid-afternoon treat. From 11am-3:30pm, Wednesday through Friday, stop by the Highlands restaurant for a little midday escape. The afternoon menu boasts fresh seafood salads, small plate tapas, and flavorful Feijao bowls outfitted with heirloom beans, braised meats, fresh cut salsas, and smoky sweet dried chile recados. All coming together in one bowl, this flavorful dish has garnered Café Brazil numerous wins at local chili cook-offs and is guaranteed to win your heart. cafebrazildenver.com
EDGE
19) The Happiest Hour at EDGE at the Four Seasons Hotel
The hand on the clock inches closer to that magical hour. You know, the hour where food and drink prices are smoking hot at some of your favorite eateries. You eagerly watch as the hour and minute reaches 4pm. It’s not long before you’re at EDGE Restaurant & Bar inside the Four Seasons Hotel Denver, relishing in the deals. Available Monday-Friday from 4-6pm, EDGE Bar has a brand new happy hour menu in honor of summertime, including $5 draft beers and 50-percent off all wine, select spirits, and specialty cocktails. Pair your beverage with small plates, like Marinated Olives ($4) or Hummus ($8), and sit back and relax because the happiest hour has arrived. edgerestaurantdenver.com
Adelitas
20) Welcome to the Adelitas Familia
Traditionally, the term adelita is synonymous with a courageous, altruistic woman who provides for her loved ones. The word stems from a time-old Mexican tale about a woman warrior who fights in the name of love during the Mexican Revolution. So to honor generations of matriarchs ruling the kitchens of Mexican households everywhere, Adelitas Cocina Y Cantina—a family-owned Mexican food-haven—brings the heart and soul of Michoacán to Denver. With a friendly staff, festive environs, and a menu inspired by traditional recipes, the cantina welcomes guests to the family table. Sit in a colorful serape-upholstered booth and mix and match eight types of street tacos, or explore classic Mexican fare from pozole to fajitas and tamales. Be sure to stop by Palenque Mezcaleria around the corner for an after-dinner mezcal cocktail, and La Chupaflor for delicious homemade ice cream. With daily specials all week long, two happy hours (3-6pm and 10pm-close), and a late night menu, Adelitas is a gem on South Broadway. adelitasdenver.com
Atomic Cowboy
21) All-Day Eats at Atomic Cowboy
When you visit any one of the four Atomic Cowboy locations in Colorado (with a new location in Colorado Springs set to drop this July), you might have trouble finding a reason to leave. With Denver Biscuit Co. and Fat Sully’s pizza under the same roof, you’ve got options any time of day. Start with DBC’s buttery, flaky, monstrous-in-size breakfast biscuits, like the Cordon Bleu or something sweet like the Strawberry Shortcake. Kill some time over a Bloody Mary before you prepare for your second course. Fat Sully’s has the ultimate New York-style slice, and has recently rolled out a few soon-to-be favorites like Family-Style Lasagna, the massive Chicken Parmesan, and a Garlic NOT that’s not like anything you’ve ever seen. If that’s not enough to excite you, there is always happy hour every day from 3-6pm and 10pm-close. Oh yeah, and for your midnight-snacking needs, the walk-up slice window is open until 2am. atomiccowboy.net
Japango
22) Colorado’s Largest Selection of Japanese Whiskeys at Japango
Nestled in the heart of downtown Boulder on Pearl Street, a small slice of Japan can be found at Japango. Dedicated to the culture and cuisine reflected in its name, Japango touts a long list of fresh sushi options, as well as other Japanese classics, like potstickers, tempura, Bento Boxes, noodle bowls, and more. This Asian eatery boasts daily deals, including all-day happy hour on Mondays and late-night specials with a live DJ on Fridays and Saturdays. But what really sets this place apart is its spirits collection. Home to Colorado’s largest collection of Japanese whiskeys, sip and savor on selections like Hibiki 21 Year and Yamazaki Sherry Cask—named “the best whiskey in the world.” boulderjapango.com
Sushi Den
23) Progressive Dinners at The Den Corner
Encompassing all concepts run by beloved brothers Toshi and Yasu Kizaki, The Den Corner will soon host a series of progressive dinners. Set to launch in August, don your favorite walking shoes (or don’t as the restaurants are right across the street from one another) and travel through the intricacies of Japanese cuisine without ever leaving the block. Held each month, the dinner will start with pristine cuts of sushi and sashimi, with sake to pair, at Sushi Den. Guests will traverse across the street to OTOTO for sizzling robata fare and traditional ramen with a little Japanese whiskey action. Sweet dreams can be had at Izakaya Den, finishing the evening with dessert and an after-dinner drink. For more information on pricing and dates, keep an eye on Sushi Den’s website. sushiden.net
Courier.
24) Hot Off The Press: Courier.
What’s noteworthy about Courier. Restaurant (other than delicious food and quality experience) is its historic location. The concept is located in the same building that once housed one of Denver’s first newspapers in the early 1900s. The history of the building is brought indoors with a design that pays tribute to the power of the press. File cabinets hint at stories contained within, comfortable seating and desk task lamps inspire conversation and innovation, and a mural of a typewriter emphasizes the written word. Happy Hour, from 3-6pm, includes themed cocktails like the Tabloid (pomegranate, iced tea, and Prosecco) and Local Edition (bourbon, absinthe, and peychaud’s bitters), which carry on the theme. Open daily, Courier. now delivers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as grab-and-go gourmet sandwiches and salads from the Courier. market. courierrestaurant.com
Tamayo
25) Taco Tuesdays at Tamayo
Among the 25 prestigious culinary concepts under the Richard Sandoval Hospitality umbrella, Tamayo shines, offering an upscale, innovative approach to Mexican cuisine. Between lavish dinner selections like the Mahi Mahi Ceviche and the Chili & Coffee-Rubbed Carne Asada, guests can also find Tamayo’s delectable (and affordable!) $2 tacos on Tuesdays from 2-6pm. Choose from savory selections, including the Taco de Carne (grilled steak, onion, cilantro, salsa roja), Al Pastor (adobo pork, caramelized pineapple, onion, cilantro), and Chicken Tinga (seasoned shredded chicken, pico de gallo, black beans, crema fresca). Wash it all down with $5 margaritas, vino, and sangria or $4 beers. Perfect for a warm summer evening, enjoy your taco feast on the second floor terrace overlooking Denver’s historic Larimer Square. eattamayo.com
ELWAY’S
26) Elevated Private Dining at ELWAY’S Downtown
Housed in the city’s longest running AAA Five Diamond hotel, ELWAY’S Downtown is synonymous with lavish environs and USDA Prime hand-cut steaks. It should be no surprise that the unique private dining spaces tucked inside this classic haunt are just as upscale. From the intimate 15-seater chef’s table with a roaring fireplace to the enclosed Semi-Private Room that houses up to 70 guests, ELWAY’S is primed for any occasion. Sure to please any group, the shareable Lamb Chop Fondue utilizes cuts from Mountain States Rosen in Greeley and is served with a luscious green chili cheese fondue. Perfect pairings come in the form of the restaurant’s limited and locally-sourced whiskey by Law’s Whiskey House, bottled exclusively for ELWAY’S Downtown. ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/colorado/denver/dining
Chautauqua
27) A Boulder Classic: Chautauqua Dining Hall
Sharing iconic status with the breathtaking Flatirons, Boulder is also home to the infamous Chautauqua Dining Hall. Serving the Boulder community since 1898, this historic landmark is ideal for any and every occasion. Rocking out at Chautauqua Auditorium? Indulge in Colorado-style cuisine inside the Victorian dining hall before a night of revelry. Mid-morning hike on Chautauqua Trail? Replenish with the Beet Cured Trout Benedict for breakfast or the House-Made Elk Sausage for lunch. For a lazy day of libations and great conversation, soak up the sunshine on the famed wraparound patio, in view of the enchanting Boulder Flatirons. chautauqua.com/dining-hall/overview
Colt & Gray
28) Lunch Alfresco at Colt & Gray
On the prowl for afternoon sustenance? Don’t count out Platte Street. Nestled between the Highlands and Riverfront neighborhoods, this quaint strip holds a number of must-see destinations, including Colt & Gray. Now open for lunch, the offal-centric eatery has revived a few throwbacks from the mind of Chef Nelson Perkins, plus a few new takes on the classics from Sous Chef Nick Ames. Shareables start by way of Green Curry Mussels or a choice of Lamb or Salmon Tartare. Both the Croque Madame and Monsieur can be found here, as well as succulent shredded pork straight from the shank, found in the Trotter. If you linger until happy hour, which you should, slide into the evening with boozy tiki cocktails and oysters on the half shell on the outdoor patio. coltandgray.com
Steuben’s
29) G&Ts at 3 at Steuben’s Uptown
Lover of all things gin and tonic? Build your own highball during happy hour—offered daily from 3-6pm—at Steuben’s Uptown. G&T aficionados can mix and match their cocktail, their way. Served on a golden platter, the G&Ts at 3, complete with five ounces of Leo Summer Gin and mint and orange garnishes for $16, serves 2-4 thirsty patrons. Add as much or as little Q Tonic Water or Fever-Tree as you wish. Don’t forget to snack on discounted happy hour offerings, like the Mini Shrimp Po’Boys, while you get your bubbly on. steubens.com
Ultreia
30) Patios, Pintxos, and Porrons at Ultreia
Garlic rubbed ciabatta bread topped with fresh tomatoes, marinated olives, and charred octopus at only $3 each? Sounds like happy hour at Ultreia. From 3-6pm Monday through Friday, the Spanish gastroteka offers an affordable menu of tapas and bites, the way tapas were intended to be. Nosh on a few shareables and toast to the good life with $3 house sangrias or $4 seasonal (and goblet-sized) gins. Can’t swing happy hour? Make a date for Porron and Pintxos Night. On offer all day every Sunday and Monday, this delectable deal includes a bottle of Spanish/Portuguese red, white, or rosé, complemented with a variety of house cured meats and cheeses for only $30.60. Ultreia is sure to bring a little sunshine no matter what day of the week. ultreiadenver.com
Izakaya Amu
31) Upholding Traditions at Izakaya Amu
Since 2002, Izakaya Amu has offered a traditional Japanese dining experience to the people of Boulder. The layout, décor, and atmosphere replicate what a restaurant in Japan looks like. Guests are even asked to remove their shoes, an age-old Japanese tradition, prior to sitting at the sashimi counter or the back tea rooms. The experience is so transportive that you’ll forget that the Rocky Mountains are just beyond the establishment’s walls. The Japanese characters for izakaya essentially translate to mean “drinking house.” True to the name, Izakaya Amu offers Boulder’s largest selection of sake, balanced with traditional Japanese nibbles. izakayaamu.com
City, O’ City
32) City, O’ City: Encouraging a Happy and Healthy Community
Showcasing partnerships with local food and drink vendors, while serving as a hotspot for Denver musicians, poets, and artists, City, O’ City is a hub of community culture. In a mission to “serve all needs to all people,” this downtown eatery delivers a large and inventive menu, on which nearly every dish can be ordered as vegan-friendly or gluten-free. Sourcing local produce whenever possible, City, O’ City promotes a healthy and responsible dining option. Happy hour is every day from 2-6pm and 11pm-1am. Whether you are looking for a Monday morning caffeine kick or a Friday night whiskey, the doors are open. If you like what you find here, stop by all-vegan sister businesses Make, Believe Bakery (just next door), and Watercourse Foods (17th Avenue and Emerson Street). cityocitydenver.com
Adrift
33) Summer Sunday Luaus and Hula Happy Hour at Adrift
Denver’s favorite tiki bar just got a whole lot more tropical with Summer Sunday Luaus. On July 29 and August 26, guests can enjoy a $25 all-you-can-eat Huli-Huli Chicken and Pork Roast feast served with traditional Hawaiian sides. Complete the experience with libations in the Tiki Cocktail Grotto, and don’t forget to head to the patio for a live performance by a troupe of Kalama Polynesian dancers. The luaus sell out quickly, so make your reservation at info@adriftbar.com. But wait, the fun doesn’t stop there. Have you always wanted to learn how to hula? Adrift’s new Hula Happy Hour is your chance. Every Saturday this summer from 4-5pm, join Kalama Polynesian dancers for hula lessons under the palm frond decorated outdoor patio nicknamed “The Broadway Beach.” The lessons are $10 and include a refreshing Chi-Chi or mocktail. Additionally, cheap and cheerful happy hour specials on tiki cocktails and small plates will be well earned after your summer hula workout. So, what are you waiting for? Drift away to a tropical oasis right here in The Mile High City. adriftbar.com
Old Major
34) A Taste of Old Major
With a tagline of “Seafood, Swine, and Wine,” Old Major offers guests a well-rounded taste of this holy trinity with its distinctive tasting menu. Available Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday evenings for $45 per person, patrons can sample and savor four shareable plates of their choosing. Rotating with the seasons, select from the sea with the grilled octopus served over a tzatziki and gochujang sauce (Spanish Octopus) or go for the tried-and-true Royal Rooster Fried Chicken served with a serious kick, thanks to the barrel-aged hot sauce. How else could they sweeten the deal? Finish with a choice of dessert like the Butterscotch Pot de Creme sprinkled with bacon peanut butter brittle. Pro tip: Set a reservation on Wednesday night to peruse half-off bottles of wine with Swine & Wine Wednesdays. Half-off all bottles and a taste of Old Major favorites? This may be the deal of the century. oldmajordenver.com
Ale House
35) Patio Party at Ale House
Ale House takes the cake for having an outstanding list of handcrafted brews, wines, and fresh menu offerings. With summer now in full swing, there is no better place to enjoy one of their refreshing beverages or mouthwatering apps (we recommend the Sunset Salsa + Guac) on one of their two patios. Guests have the option to soak up the summer sun on the streetside patio, prime for people watching, or on the open-air rooftop patio overlooking the Denver skyline. Either way, stop by and take in the magnificent views at Ale House, a concept where craft and community come together. alehousedenver.com
Wynkoop Brewing Company
36) Beers To Go at Wynkoop Brewing Company
Colorado is well-known as home of some of the best breweries and brewpubs in the nation. Wynkoop Brewing Company is not only a standard bearer for that reputation, but as Colorado’s very first brewpub, it’s the standard-setter. Located in a restored warehouse building from the late 1800s, Wynkoop Brewing Company combines vintage and modern elements to create a space that is uniquely its own. With four different dining spaces, as well as one private event room, spread across two stories, the brewery can comfortably accommodate anywhere from 12 to 1,200 guests. New to the brewery, Wynkoop now offers crowlers on-the-go. Beer aficionados can take home some of Wynkoop’s most popular brews, like the Rocky Mountain Oyster Stout or Patty’s Chile Beer. The canning machine on-site produces 32-ounce cans, and prices range between $10-$18 per can. wynkoop.com
By Morgan Carter, Peyton Garcia, and Elizabeth Liberatore
For a full look at the DiningOut Denver/Boulder Summer 2018 issue, click here.
The post 36 Things We Love About Dining Out in Denver & Boulder appeared first on DiningOut Denver/Boulder.
