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 Known for martinis |
630 East 17th Ave Denver, CO 80203 United States +1 303 861 2820 http://www.avenuegrill.com |
Stepping into this dining-nugget is akin to taking a trip back to the American supper clubs of the 1930s. Dark wood, brass fixtures and retro neon signs create the desired effect here. Its martinis have been recognized by the local press as some of the best in Denver, making it a popular after-work stop. Choose from an array of dishes ranging from upscale steak and seafood selections to local favorites, such as the vegetarian burrito and Mexican steak. For dessert try the Chocolate Tortillas or Key Lime pie. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Extends the bounds of true dining |
3030 East Sixth Avenue Denver, CO 80206 United States +1 303 393 1040 |
To give you a hint to how seriously this restaurant treats its ability to provide superb service with superb food, it shuts its doors every summer for two weeks so that the entire staff can tour Italy's wineries and restaurants. Hence, this food pearl rates as one of the best in Colorado. All entrees are of the types that cause diners to exclaim, "I have never had a dish like this before." grilled veal chop over a spinach and goat cheese tort, and duckling served with garlic rosemary hashbrowns are two such examples. The wine list offers over 700 varieties. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Bayou bistro in the Rocky Mountains |
1635 Glenarm Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 573 6828 |
A taste of New Orleans sizzling in the heart of downtown, Bayou Bob's specializes in heaping helpings of spicy Cajun and down-home comfort delights. Weekends are crowded: waits often exceed an hour, but the lively bar helps pass the time. If you find yourself having trouble deciding on one entrée, try one of the combination plates. Each one comes with a wide selection of Cajun standards, ranging from Gumbo and Jambalaya to Blackened Catfish and Red Beans and Rice. This rates very high with families. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A fiesta |
301 East Seventh Avenue Denver, CO 80203 United States +1 303 894 0788 |
Located in Capitol Hill, this lively cantina is one of Denver's most popular Mexican restaurants. Prepare to wait for a table any night of the week, but the bar is comfortable and a great place to pass the time. The Grilled Chicken Burrito is a menu classic, or if you prefer the meat to be shredded, try the Smothered Burritos, which come doused in a mound of chile verde. The margaritas are recommended, and the starter chips and salsa are some of the best in town. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Jones |
 Photo: Terri Bell |
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Hip martini bar |
1475 Lawrence Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 260 7505 |
The opulent lounge area/dining room has a definite Asian influence and features plush white sofas for relaxing with one of the 67 available martinis. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer views of the active downtown streets. The outdoor patio is popular during the summer months. The lunch menu is extremely reasonable and has a number of standard sandwiches including the Swiss Patty Melt. Both the lunch and dinner menus feature a wealth of pasta selections. Dinner entrees also include kabobs and a fine Atlantic Salmon Filet. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Landmark Denver eatery |
457 South Broadway Denver, CO 80209-1517 United States +1 303 778 0147 |
The Blue Bonnet, a Denver dining landmark, is always busy regardless of the hour. The menu is loaded with high-calorie Mexican food and includes everything from burritos to Chile Rellenos smothered in red or green chili. The portions are enormous and to-go boxes are not only available, they are advisable. A sprawling deck is the place to be in the summer, although the only view is of a busy strip mall and of the traffic on Broadway. Pool tables are available and make for good diversions while waiting for a table. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Bank on this one |
821 17th Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 292 5065 http://www.brokerrestaurant.com |
The Broker Restaurant occupies the old Denver National Bank building and retains many of the original, historic features like the huge, 23-ton circular vault door and some of the original wooden booths. The atmosphere here is historic without being stuffy. The food is worth the price of gold: the steaks are some of the best in Colorado. The menu also includes Rocky Mountain trout, Colorado rack of lamb, Southwest Wellington and seafood pasta. The portions are large and pricey. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mag1c3y3 |
 Photo: Erin Haney |
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Casually Elegant |
6538 S Yosemite Circle Denver, CO 80111 United States +1 303 770 1177 http://www.brookssteakhouse.com/ |
Brook's offers high-end steaks in a surprisingly casual atmosphere. The large, open room is comfortable and the service is anything but snooty. Do not be surprised if you run into John Elway here, he loves the place. Although steaks are the mainstay, the restaurant provides a varied menu, including seafood such as prawns, scallops and oysters. Filet, ribeye, porterhouse, and sirloin steaks are available a la carte. The wine list, one of the best in the state, features over 1,800 vintages. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Italian dining at its very best |
300 Fillmore Street Denver, CO 80206 United States +1 303 377 7887 http://www.campodefiori.net |
It did not take long for this restaurant to go from the "new kid in town" to being an immediate Denver favorite. Mustard colored walls hold flower murals and frescoes, giving the place the intended Tuscan ambiance. As an added bonus its waitstaff has been recognized by '5280 Magazine' as the best in Denver. The pasta selection is huge and includes such innovative dishes as Agnolotti di Zucca, homemade pasta crammed with butternut squash, and Spaghetti con Sarde e Rapini, pasta topped with sardines. Steak, chicken and seafood are also available. The restaurant can also be booked for wedding receptions, corporate functions and special occasions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A true Old World tribute |
1801 Blake Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 308 1795 http://www.celtictavern.com/ |
This Irish/Welsh/Scottish-themed restaurant resembles the literary den of James Joyce and begs for quiet conversation rather than the loud toasting of pints. Book-covered walls give it a, 'wow-I-wish-my-house-looked-this-cozy' type feel. Shepherd's pie, and Lamb Casserole confirm the restaurant's authenticity. There are also sandwiches and burgers, including the turkey burger, which is fun to order just because it comes with a side of cranberries. The bar is the longest in Denver, and a cigar room adds to the sophisticated ambiance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A little of everything |
1201 Cherokee Street Denver, CO 80204 United States +1 303 623 0346 |
Located just south of downtown, this secluded gem boasts all the comforts of home in a rustic lodge setting. Heavy wooden furniture creates the subtle illusion of dining inside a mountain cottage. Beautiful gardens surround the outdoor patio. The menu offers traditional morning favorites, including an incredible stack of French toast. The pancakes and omelets are recommended. For lunch try the Baked Cheese Pasta or the Italian Sausage Sandwich. Dinner features everything from Raspberry Chicken to Whitefish. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Big burritos |
3027 East Second Avenue (at St. Paul) Denver, CO 80206 United States +1 303 322 9160 |
Chez Jose is a busy Cherry Creek lunch spot that caters to shoppers and the business crowd. The menu includes the classic burrito, overflowing with black beans, rice, and a choice of meat. The gourmet fajita burrito is just as tasy and comes with rice, sautéed green peppers and onions, grilled steak or chicken, and an excellent tomato salsa. For the vegetarians, there is the California burrito and the veggie burrito. Lunch lines can get long. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Sumptuous house specialty |
1500 California St Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 623 4809 |
Chez Thuy Hoa is a cheerful restaurant opened by the original chef of T-Wa Inn. Decorated in a simple yet elegant style, with a forest of green plants and old-fashioned fixtures, this restaurant serves some of the finest Asian food in downtown with a heavy emphasis on Vietnamese fare. A fabulously popular place, especially during lunch, the soft shelled crab rates as the house specialty. Among other favorite dishes are the varying noodles bowls with grilled meats, vegetables and sumptuous sauces. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Political eats |
3575 South Yosemite Denver, CO 80227 United States +1 303 694 0454 http://www.citygrille.com |
This mainly American-style grill, run by Denver restaurateur Rich Saturelli, is located near the Colorado State Capitol Building and is a popular lunch spot when the House and Senate are in session. Its menu is wide-ranging, offering burgers, sandwiches, pasta dishes, grilled steaks and Mexican foods like enchiladas and chile rellenos. Citygrille features a full bar. The Taos Chicken is a house specialty and is basically a Chile Relleno with chicken and plenty of cheese. The burgers are some of the best in town. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Casual and delicious |
2076 South University Boulevard Denver, CO 80210 United States +1 303 744 3591 |
This casual neighborhood restaurant has been around for a few years, which shows in the interior. Its menu, however, continues to impress even the pickiest of palates, especially with the recent addition of Paris trained chef, Patrick Lord. The lobster fodue makes for an outstanding appetizer. Entree selections include Veal Marsala, tenderloin of pork, and grilled lamb porter chops. An extensive and inexpensive wine list is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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New York styled |
510 17th Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 825 5353 |
Despite its hidden location inside the downtown Denver Club building do not deny yourself the chance for true deli food by thinking you need to be a member-it is open to the public. It features a fist full of homemade salads ranging from red skin potato to caesar pasta. Its sandwiches, which in true deli tradition feature specialty names like the West Coast Manager, and the Auditor, are many and include vegetarian choices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Recognized by the local media |
290 South Downing Street (at Alameda) Denver, CO 80209 United States +1 303 777 8922 |
This little corner restaurant is like the supermodel of Asian dining for it possesses class, looks and charm. Brownish-copper tables and black chairs exude a very distinct and sophisticated look that says, 'these people know what they are doing.' Huge windows make it perfect for people watching.Weekdays feature wok tossed lunch specials with most for under USD6. Dinner specialties include hot Braised Shrimp, and Tofu Steak. No MSG is added to any of its dishes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dave Gan |
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Authentic Vietnamese |
940 South Federal Boulevard Denver, CO 80219 United States +1 303 935 4141 |
It is best to enter this nifty restaurant with an empty gut for the menu is large and diverse. You can start with the duck salad and then try one of the many rice noodle soups, which are all generous with shrimp and crabmeat, and one even includes winkle. And then for entrees, opt for one of the many rice noodle bowls or try something different like the Eel Hot Pot or the Spicy Stir-Fried Squid with Lemon Grass. Beer is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Dazzling dining and decor |
930 Lincoln Street Denver, CO 80203 United States +1 303 839 5100 |
Dazzle splashes a hefty dash of art deco over the interior of the old Fuji En restaurant, creating a glitzy bit of nighttime magic in a space that looks nothing but drab from the outside. The huge bar and dining area could easily pass for a hip speak-easy, and the jazzy ambiance goes well with the wide selection of martinis. Service runs slow at times, but the dining room has a relaxed, darkened atmosphere. The menu is wide ranging, presenting everything from burgers to seafood, tamales to smoked duck. The crab cake appetizers are also a specialty Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Big steaks and a reputation for ambiance |
8100 East Orchard Road Denver, CO 80111 United States +1 303 796 0100 http://www.delfriscos.com |
Despite the tuxedo-clad waitstaff this place manages to be upper upscale without seeming overly pretentious. Inviting leather couches surround a cozy fireplace, making its cigar lounge a special place for enjoying a fine single malt scotch. All of its steaks come in generous portions and are large enough to share. Seafood options are offered. But most impressive of all is the wine list, which is big enough to come with Cliff Notes. Desserts include homemade ice cream. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Local favorite for Indian eats |
1514 Blake St Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 595 0680 |
This is a top spot for a terrific lunch buffet at a "can-this-be-true" price (USD5.95). The stately buffet table sports a large variety of classic Indian dishes including curries, Tandoori and authentic Indian bread. Its LoDo location makes it popular with the business crowd for both lunch and dinner. The brass accents add flair to the decor, and private booths make for perfect spots to exchange coy glances over Masala on romantic dates. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Denver dining landmark |
29260 Highway 40 Denver, CO 80401 United States +1 303 526 0661 http://www.historicelrancho.com/ |
Since 1948 this rustic restaurant with its neon script sign along Interstate 70 has been a Colorado dining landmark. The log cabin-like interior is lined with huge picture windows, furnishing stunning views of the Continental Divide. Prime rib is the reigning superstar of the menu. In addition the menu offers other items like buffalo meatloaf (USD14), elk medallions (USD22), trout and swordfish to name a few. The wine list is both diverse and high-end. The Wednesday night Prime Rib buffet (USD21.95) is very popular. Lunch for two would cost around USD 24. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tammy Green  |
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Fun on the Santa Fe Trail |
19192 Highway 8 (at US 285) Denver, CO 80465 United States +1 303 697 4771 http://www.thefort.com |
As a replica of Bent's Fort, it's a cultural crossroads on the historic Santa Fe Trail. This area institution, which has been reviewed in the New York Times, serves up southwestern fare to everyone from lounging locals to heads of state including President Clinton during 1997's economic summit. Scrumptious servings of buffalo and elk tantalize the tongue. More traditional fare like salmon, filet mignon and even a vegetarian plate is also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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East meets West menu |
7950 East Mississippi Avenue Denver, CO 80231 United States +1 303 696 8471 |
It is not often that one can use the nouns 'New York strip steak' and 'Japanese restaurant' in one sentence, but this little nugget of dining diversity pulls it off. From the outside, it harbors all the appeal of a post-Christmas Visa bill, all of which makes the inviting interior that much more surprising. Besides the usual Japanese offerings of sashimi and various teriyaki dishes, the restaurant offers a huge sushi selection, as well as combo plates like filet mignon and lobster. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Brewery and great food |
8101 East Belleview Avenue Denver, CO 80237 United States +1 303 770 4741 http://www.gntavern.com |
This casual place is a brewery, a pub, and a fine restaurant all rolled into one. Outside seating, available when weather permits, makes this a prime spot for people watching. Entrée selections are wonderfully diverse, ranging from braised lamb shanks and Alaskan crab to phyllo wrapped salmon and buffalo flank steak. A large wine list features over 150 vintages and the beer selection includes hand crafted ales and microbrews. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Spacious brewery |
208 Kalamath Street Denver, CO 80223 United States +1 303 715 1300 |
From the outside, this hulk of a building makes you feel as if you are a United Auto Worker reporting to work at the Ford plant—it is huge. Inside, this brewery offers a little of everything. Walls are adorned with 14 TVs, including a giant screen, and there are two pool tables as well. The brewery offers 20 beers on tap, including many of its own homemade varieties. Dining options include seven different salads, pasta, sandwiches, calzones and a great line-up of specialty pizzas. Thursdays feature a free taco bar during Happy Hour (4pm-7pm). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Escape to the Islands |
1052 South Gaylord Street Denver, CO 80209 United States +1 303 722 7456 |
This Washington Park neighborhood restaurant provides a fresh, island escape for beach-deprived Colorado diners. The interior resembles an old beach hut with an ambiance to match. The menu serves just what you would expect fresh fish and seafood. The restaurant knows how important a good selection of wine, beer, and cocktails is to having a great seafood dinner—and for downing those raw oysters. The grilled fish, crab, and lobster are all good choices. Save room for dessert, which is key lime pie, of course. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Designer seafood |
1539 17th Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 292 5767 http://www.jaxfishhousedenver.com |
Swanky and stylish, Jax Fish House is a popular after-work gathering spot for the business crowd and with fans heading over to Coors Field for a Rockies game. It is also the place for downing a few raw oysters. The restaurant is always jumping with energy (i.e. loud) and may not suit those in search of a quiet meal. The appetizers feature both hot and cold selections including tasty Blue Crab Cakes. The Chipolte Charred Ahi Tuna and Grilled Hawaiian Escolar are two of the more popular dinner entrees. Happy Hour is from 4p-6p daily. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Affordable French fare |
112 East Eighth Ave Denver, CO 80203 United States +1 303 863 8094 http://www.lecentral.com |
Just when you thought all French restaurants were pretentious, stuffy and overpriced, along comes Le Central. Located in Capitol Hill, the quaint spot dishes up a bit of charm, along with an ever-changing selection of affordable cuisine. The Saturday brunch, with an endless glass of champagne, is extremely popular with the locals. The menu changes daily but has been known to feature Alaskan halibut, Atlantic salmon, roast pork and grilled rib eye. An extensive wine list offers over 100 different wines, and most are priced under USD25. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Denver's restaurant alternative |
617 22nd Street Denver, CO 80205 United States +1 303 825 4133 http://www.lemonsistersmarket.... |
This is an excellent food alternative in downtown Denver. This handy little market, which harks of something found in New York or Chicago, harbors a deli offering salads, sandwiches and homemade desserts. Daily specials feature items such as lasagna, Hungarian goulash and Sloppy Joes. There are also soups like Thai Pumpkin and Brazilian Black Bean. If time is a factor, call ahead and order a box lunch. Lemon Sisters also delivers to downtown businesses. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Simple and chic |
1530 Blake Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 893 1158 |
Located in LoDo, Lim's is a trendy lunch spot for the business crowd and a popular starting point for the weekend suburban clubbers. The place separates itself from other Chinese restaurants that serve the standard fare by offering a variety of Mongolian food. The sizzling Mongolian barbecue is a pleasant change of pace, although you can still order Kung Pao, chow mein, and beef with broccoli if you feel more comfortable with the old favorites. Vegetarians can substitute hot tofu for meat, or choose from wide selection of veggie items. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Contemporary Chinese |
2364 East Third Avenue (at Josephine Street) Denver, CO 80206 United States +1 303 316 8888 |
Little Ollie's, located in Cherry Creek North, serves creative contemporary Chinese cuisine in an upscale environment. The decor features lots of traditional Chinese lanterns and dim lighting. An outdoor patio is available year round and abounds with flowers in the summer. Menu specialties range from Chinese standards to unusual dishes. Whatever you choose, the fare is healthy; no MSG is used in its dishes. Try the Peking duck or shrimp and scallops in garlic sauce. A full bar, including specialty Chinese liqueurs, is offered. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Save room for dessert |
500 16th Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 260 7707 http://www.maggianos.com/ |
Located in the Denver Pavilions, Maggiano's dim lights, dark wood and touches of red, white, and black create an atmosphere a New York godfather would love. He would probably appreciate the mounds of pasta as well. The test of any Italian restaurant is the Minestrone, and this one definitely passes. While some of the pasta dishes are bland, the hefty lasagna oozes cheese and its meat sauce has a deep, long-simmered flavor. The Tiramisu is a perfect finish to a hearty meal: light and delicious. This place is very family-friendly. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christian Morales |
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Fine steak dining |
231 Milwaukee Street Denver, CO 80206 United States +1 303 333 6444 |
Most steak houses deem branding irons and steer skulls on the wall as the essence of decor. This restaurant, however, breaks away from such steak house campiness and presents a classy, upscale dining experience. The menu offers a variety of pasta dishes and seafood items, but the true specialty is meat. One can order blackened prime rib or opt for a sirloin steak. The restaurant is pricey, but the portions are hefty, and true fans of such items will not be disappointed. Live jazz adds to the sophisticated ambiance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Classy catch |
1659 Wazee Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 825 1107 http://www.mccormickandschmick... |
Located in the historic Oxford Hotel in LoDo, this fish house continually ranks as one of Denver's best restaurants. A new menu is printed daily, underscoring its emphasis on fresh seafood. Over 30 fish choices are offered each day and include oysters from New York and crabs from California. Pasta and steak options also abound. The bar features the same fare but in a more casual atmosphere. Burgers, seafood and salads dominate the Happy Hour menu. Check out the art deco Cruise Room which opened in 1933. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Swansen |
 Photo: Curtis Bullock |
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A Denver favorite |
909 South Oneida Street (at Parker) Denver, CO 80224 United States +1 303 329 6777 |
In a city of endless Chinese dining choices, this restaurant falls in the elite ranking of excellent. Numerous paragraphs of praise in the local papers attest to this claim. The swarthy interior of dark walls and maroon upholstered booths casts such an authentic appearance that one expects a gong to sound upon entering. Lobster Mandarin, and Shrimp and Tea Smoked Duck are two of the many specialty items that leap out from the menu. The daily lunch specials are extensive, highlighted by a brimming buffet. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Bigger is better |
1710 Wynkoop Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 825 3353 http://www.mortons.com |
Voted best steak by the Denver Post five years running, this place has an impressive list of national awards longer than Denver is high. Conveniently located in historic lower downtown this steakhouse serves a classy presentation with an eye for detail and a reputation for huge portions. If beef is not your choice there are seafood options such as Maine lobster and Shrimp Alexander. Matching the large entree portions in size are its drinks - martinis are large enough to ride a jet ski in. Valet parking is available for a USD5 charge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Eccentric selections |
2360 East 3rd Avenue Denver, CO 80206 United States +1 303 331 6600 http://www.noodles.com |
Noodles is not the best sit down restaurant in the Cherry Creek area (although there are quite a few tables and chairs), but it is great for a quick fix. If you show up during the week for lunch, be prepared to wait. It is a popular stop for the business crowd. Macaroni and cheese, and all manner of noodle options and sauces are offered, as are Asian salads and Thai pastas. Be sure to check out the Indonesian, Vietnamese and Mediterranean creations. Beer is available, as is outdoor seating. Other Denver locations: 550 Broadway, +1 303 832 6000; 1460 16th St., 720 904 9590. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Elegant taste of China |
1415 15th Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 260 7222 http://www.pfchangs.com/ |
The LoDo-based P.F. Chang's provides an elegant taste of China with surprisingly stylish flair. Chang's dishes span the culinary offerings of China's major regions including Hunan, Shanghai, Szechuan, Canton, with a few side trips to Mongolia. The menu is rich and both the food and service are excellent. The dumplings here are recommended by all. The Moo Goo Gai Pan and Crab Wontons are also great choices. Check out Chang's other location at 8315 South Park Meadows Center Drive, Littleton CO, +1 303 790 7744. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Edward J Foley |
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French-Napoleon, American-style |
321 17th Street (in the Brown Palace Hotel) Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 297 3111 / +1 800 321 2599 http://www.brownpalace.com |
Designed in a French Napoleonic style, the Palace Arms in the Brown Palace Hotel brings the elegance and regality of old Europe to America. The restaurant is full of fascinating period antiques. With all that ambiance, the food is distinctly American, with a hint of classical French. The pan seared lobster cake is a great way to start the meal. The rack of lamb is an excellent choice for the main course. Jacket and tie are required during the dinner hours. The wine list is extensive and excellent. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joe West |
 Photo: Dan Paddock |
 Photo: Joe West |
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Hungry for art? |
100 West 14th Avenue Parkway (Denver Art Museum) Denver, CO 80204 United States +1 303 629 0889 |
The Denver Art Museum exhibits the taste of "new American regional cooking" with its restaurant, Palettes, open for dinner on Wednesdays only. The menu focuses on lighter meals, but offers a wide variety of inventive dishes. The museum digs make for a very chic atmosphere, as does the bright, black and white room with metal accents. The rock shrimp stuffed grouper is highly recommended. The portions could be considered skimpy, so be forewarned if you are coming with a raging appetite. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A booming branch |
1672 Lawrence Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 825 7256 http://www.thepalm.com |
This highbrow steakhouse, located in the Westin Hotel Tabor Center, harbors all of the appeal and elegance of the original Palm restaurant in New York City. Caricatures of local celebrities, sports figures and regular patrons line the walls of this brightly lit spot. The menu offers American fare with a western flair and includes porterhouse steaks, lamb chops, blackened chicken breasts, and Maine lobsters. Reservations are strongly urged. Outdoor seating is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeffrey Beall |
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Upscale on the Mall |
1515 Arapahoe Street, Tower 3 (16th Street Mall) Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 534 7800 http://www.palomino.com/ |
This expansive restaurant serves upscale, no-nonsense urban fare with numerous European influences. It displays a very contemporary look that manages to give it a "this-is-special" feel without being pretentious. Outdoor seating is prime for people watching on the 16th Street Mall. Crispy duck, ahi, filet mignon and Rigatoni Bolognese give hint to the menu's diversity. The bar menu offers such items as specialty pizzas and grilled mushrooms, making it an ideal stop before or after a downtown show. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ben Clark |
 Photo: Heidi Lyons |
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Belly dancers, too |
727 Colorado Boulevard Denver, CO 80206 United States +1 303 534 3434 |
Two words confirm this Middle Eastern restaurant's authenticity: belly dancing. Every Friday and Saturday night, you can enjoy two nightly belly dancing shows (8:30p, 9:30p) making you feel as if you are a North African character in author Paul Bowle's 'The Sheltering Sky'. There is a contemporary, hip feel about this eatery, which is unusual for most Middle Eastern restaurants. Matching the look is the menu, which offers entrees like lamb shanks and Musakaa, as well as salads and sandwiches. Definitely open the meal with the hummus. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Southern Italy in Cherry Creek |
190 St Paul Street (at Second Avenue) Denver, CO 80206 United States +1 303 321 1919 http://www.piatti.com/ |
This popular Cherry Creek destination features a bright dining room and an open kitchen that allows front row seating for the chefs' pasta tossing. An outdoor patio makes for a great summer meal, and the large bar is usually occupied by local singles. The menu focuses on creations from southern Italy, with fresh-baked pizza and an array of pastas. Other delights include ravioli, vongole, bolognese, fried calamari and risotto. Try the homemade desserts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Atmosphere and more |
2334 South Colorado Boulevard Denver, CO 80222 United States +1 303 756 1268 http://www.poppiesdenver.com |
From outside appearances, Poppies does not hold great portent, but looks, in this case, are extremely deceiving. Plants, booths and a wooden interior cast an upscale, yet, casual feel that is popular with the business set, couples and neighborhood locals. The menu coddles to all tastes and includes sandwiches, steaks (New York Strip), Mexican fare, stir-fried veggies and seafood such as broiled salmon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Theater District Bistro |
Hotel Teatro 1100 14th Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 228 1100 http://www.hotelteatro.com/ |
Kevin Taylor has been dazzling the palates of Denver diners for sometime now, creating all sorts of magical creations at his popular Restaurant Kevin Taylor at the Hotel Teatro, located in the Hotel Teatro. His new venture, Prima, also resides in a nook of the posh hotel. Although a bit smaller and less upscale, the modern Italian restaurant still exudes an air of elegance and style. See website for full menu and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Home cooking |
5131 South Yosemite Street Denver, CO 80111 United States +1 303 221 2677 |
If you need a quiet escape from the DTC business grind, head over to On the Rock Café and Grill for a taste of Cathy Upchurch's cooking. It is literally like leaving the office and heading to your mom's house for a homemade meal. The family owned establishment has mom (Cathy Upchurch) in the kitchen creating new spins on breakfast and lunch classics. Breakfast selections range from the healthy to the decadent, including the Double Rock Slide, which features bacon, eggs, sausage, pancakes and hash browns. The lunch menu offers a variety of sandwiches. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Western flavor |
800 18th Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 293 8383 http://www.rockymountaindiner.com |
Situated in the heart of lively downtown Denver, just across from the courthouse, the Rocky Mountain Diner is a popular lunch destination for the business class as well as a hot spot for dinner. The lunch menu covers an assortment of salads and sandwiches for fewer than eight bucks, while the meaty dinner menu focuses on local specialties like rainbow trout and buffalo meatloaf. The chicken fried chicken will put a couple of extra pounds on you, and the Duck Enchiladas are a creative delight. A few Colorado microbrews are on tap. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jesse D. Varner |
 Photo: Jacinda S. Ughetti |
 Photo: ohso37 |
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Upscale American steakhouse |
1445 Market Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 446 2233 http://www.ruthschris.com/ |
Add this restaurant to your list if you are looking for a classy atmosphere complete with romantically dim lighting, a full bar and an extensive wine list. Steaks, obviously, rule the menu and are accompanied by side dishes of steamed vegetables or baked potatoes that are big enough to share. Fish and poultry options are offered as well. Outdoor dining is available when the weather permits, and its valet service takes the hassle out of downtown parking. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Award winning barbecue |
435 South Cherry Street Denver, CO 80246 United States +1 303 388 9300 http://www.samtaylorsbbq.com/ |
This restaurant has won so many awards that it is like the Tiger Woods of dining. The interior, however, is low on charm. The small, mirrored bar area looks like something GQ magazine would had praised in the 1950s. Yet, the food more than compensates for the lacking decor. All the barbecued ribs, chicken and combo plates include baked beans, cole slaw and Texas toast, and come in generous portions. There are also sandwiches like barbecue beef and catfish. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Creative dining menu |
730 South University Boulevard Denver, CO 80209 United States +1 303 744 1888 |
This classy restaurant has forged a strong reputation for dining excellence. Its popular and reasonably priced lunch menu is loaded with unique salads such as the Grilled Flatbread, featuring marinated tomatoes and balsamic greens on grilled four-cheese flatbread. The dinner menu is creative and diverse, offering items like Macadamia Crusted Red Snapper and Eggplant Parmesan. The calamari is rated as the best in Denver. Outdoor seating is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Seafood, a mile high |
11911 West 6th Avenue (at Simms) Denver, CO 80401 United States +1 303 237 0465 |
Although most do not expect to find good seafood one mile above sea level, Simms Landing proudly provides an exception to the rule. Decked in sea worthy decor and ringing with nautical rhymes, this restaurant is a romantic retreat complete with a vibrant view of the city. It also serves as a museum of sorts, for it exhibits some of the earliest yachting photos (1890) ever taken of the America Cup race. Among the popular dishes are crab stuffed mushrooms and the ever-popular lobster tail. The prime rib is also a customer favorite. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Contemporary pasta paradise |
1700 Humboldt Street Denver, CO 80218 United States +1 303 831 7310 http://www.stringsrestaurant.com/ |
Located along uptown's Restaurant Row, Strings is one the city's classiest and most popular dining destinations. The menu's blend of California and Italian cuisine, and the courteous service and casual ambience make for a welcome fine dining experience. The crowd tends to swing on the upscale side, but this is a place for everybody. The wide selection of pastas comes with an array of flavorful and creamy sauces, and meat entrees include veal, chicken and beef. For an appetizer, try the Dungeness crabcakes or the signature Carpaccio. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Highbrow steakhouse |
1745 Wazee Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 295 2664 http://www.lonestarsteakhouse.... |
Alas, a steakhouse that does not have a cartoon cowboy on its menu with a speech balloon above its head saying, 'howdy pardner.' Instead, this restaurant, with its dark wood interior, drips with class and highbrow elegance. The menu features the elite of the meat world. Porterhouse steak , New York strip and filet mignon are just a few of its offerings. There are also several seafood dishes including salmon, swordfish and ahi tuna. The wine menu is massive. This is definitely a good place to impress. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sushi with the in crowd |
1487 South Pearl Street Denver, CO 80210 United States +1 303 777 0826 http://www.sushiden.net/ |
This restaurant is one of the more popular places to go for sushi in Denver. Its menu also offers tempura, teriyaki, and a variety of traditional Japanese soups like Udon, but the sushi is the best bet. The atmosphere borders on chaotic: patrons crowd just inside the door; the hostesses, waiters and waitresses fly around in a frenzy, and the sheer noise from the dining room borders on overwhelming. But it brings out the local trendsetters and is the place to be seen. Lunchtime, however, is more relaxed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: michaelmorganbauer |
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Thai dining |
301 South Pennsylvania St (at Alameda) Denver, CO 80209 United States +1 303 777 1777 |
This place breaks the mold of usual dine-in/take-out Asian restaurants. Located in a converted car repair shop, the brick interior and dark wooden tables exude the atmosphere of a Cambridge coffee shop. All orders are taken at the counter, creating a fast-food atmosphere in a non-fast-food setting. Entrees include Thai mainstays like stir-fried vegetables in assorted curry sauces, drunken noodles, and Panang. The kitchen attempts to accommodate most vegetarian requests. A second location is at 845 Colorado Blvd., +1 303 777 1777. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kari Wagaman / wagsdot911 |
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One of Denver's best |
555 South Federal Boulevard Denver, CO 80219-2939 United States +1 303 922 2378 |
Do not let the adjoining junkyard of cars sway your initial opinion of this nugget of a place. As the first Vietnamese restaurant in the area, it is constantly recognized by the local media as one of the best restaurants in Denver. The menu is small, but the offerings are exceptional. The Spicy Dungenes Crab is a good choice. The Sinus-opening lamb with five spices and Stuffed Quail are also excellent selections. Lunch specials, though limited, are offered daily. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fine dining Mexican style |
1400 Larimer Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 720 946 1433 http://www.tamayorestaurant.com/ |
This snappy restaurant has done an outstanding job of carving a "look-at-me" type niche by offering highbrow Mexican fare in a highbrow setting. It might possibly be the only Mexican restaurant that does not boast of award winning margaritas. It instead offers an outstanding wine list. The massive tile mural behind the bar immediately indicates that this place is special. The menu adds to this feel by offering dishes such as Halibut with Spicy Chipolte and Filet Mignon with Guacamole. This rates high as a good place to impress. The Rooftop Lounge and the Bar & Lounge are open all days of the week from 5p onwards. The lunch prix fixe menu is available at $15 for a three course whereas going by the a la carte would cost you about $40. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: msitarzewski |
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Huge menu |
333 South Federal Boulevard Denver, CO 80219 United States +1 303 922 5774 |
When you dine here make sure you carry along your reading glasses for the menu features almost 240 dishes to choose from. It is like being handed a magazine. The interior, which includes standard pink tablecloths is ho-hum traditional but nevertheless, extremely clean. Some of the more interesting dishes include the tear-inducing Curry Seafood Noodle Soup, the Stir-Fried Squid with bamboo shoots and brown sauce, and the marinated Spicy Grilled Quail. Most lunch specials fall under USD5. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hip sushi spot |
1432 Market St Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 534 5050 http://www.tomtomroom.com |
Previously Tommy Tsunami, Tom Tom Room is the place to go if you're looking for the best of the Pacific Rim. For your dining pleasure choose between a private room or communal tables while exploring the Tom Tom Room's extensive Sake list. Try their robata, an open-flame style blend of meat, sea food, and vegetables cooked on skewers or enjoy their wide list of sashimi complemented by flavorful sauces. Counting your carbs? The Tom Tom Room even features sushi with low carbohydrate alternatives. Top of the evening with treats such as their Creme Brulee or innovative dishes such as their Chocolate Shabu Shabu. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A business favorite |
1801 Broadway Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 293 2288 http://www.trinitygrille.com/ |
Located across from the Brown Palace Hotel, this restaurant is the ideal setting for a power lunch or dinner. The small dining room looks like the crowd it draws: polished. Dark wood paneling, aged wooden chairs, and a stunning wooden bar give the place an Old World charm. Despite the highbrow setting, the place still maintains a casual spirit. Seafood and steak rule the menu. The French Fried Lobster and the Stuffed Tuscan Pork Chop are favorites. The lunch menu is similar to the dinner menu, but adds on a few burgers and sandwiches. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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One of the seven Five-Stars |
4150 E Mississippi Avenue Denver, CO 80246 United States +1 303 782 9300 |
Located in the Loews Giorgio Hotel, this restaurant, decorated with posh furniture, is quite possibly the city's most stylish dining room. USA Today named it "Best Place To Do Business Over Breakfast." The menu features upscale Northern Italian cuisine and includes Colorado lamb, filet of beef and rack of venison. The massive Sunday brunch offers a host of food options ranging from crepes to prime rib. Reservations are strongly suggested. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Grilling fit for a goddess |
1822 Blake Street Denver, CO 80202 United States +1 303 296 1970 http://www.vestagrill.com/ |
Vesta is a sensory experience in taste, sight, simplicity and art. Located in LoDo, and often considered the area's best restaurant, the sleek spot is a popular destination for romance. Specializing in grilling over an open fire, Vesta brings an array of dishes to the table, all ready for dipping in a selection of sauces which range from chutneys to salsas. The restaurant has a knack for taking something ordinary and giving it pizzazz. Check out the flavorful Ginger Chile Seared Tuna, or Ponzu Grilled Atlantic Salmon. Meat lovers will find solace in the Grilled Beef Tenderloin. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: GOOG Design |
