Restaurant Review // Wooden Spoon

Local bakeries and neighborhood cafes are nothing new, but when you find one that produces both decadent pastries and elevated food, the true winners are the customers. This is the case with the charming wooden spoon cafe in lower highlands. 

This quaint shop only seats about a dozen customers at once, in their light filled space off of 28th and zuni. Luckily, owners jason and jeanette burgett turns out their made-to-order fare in no time, so, seats open up quickly and guests can also take their meals to go. There are always fresh flowers adorning each table and a friendly staff to welcome you inside. The large handwritten chalkboards display the menus; full of local ingredients and purveyors from around town. However, what draws most customers into wooden spoon is not visible on a menu; the abundant selection of homemade pastries are ever changing and proudly displayed at the counter.

So, speaking of pastries... the sweet treats at wooden spoon are as delicious to eat as they are to drool over in the display cases. Key lime tarts, fresh scones, flour-less chocolate cakes, delicate french macarons, apple tarts with cream anglaise, chewy cookies, turnovers and more are baked fresh daily and often times, sell out before lunch. I have tried a couple of the savory turnovers too and they are quite flaky so I would suggest grabbing a couple extra napkins, a fork and a knife. They also bake cakes, pies, tarts and more for the holidays and take specialty orders but I have yet to try them out and comment on their quality.

Wooden spoon should be quite proud of their spot-on breakfast and lunch program. Six days a week the tiny kitchen produces a handful of breakfast sandwiches, a couple hearty and flavorful salads, along with about a dozen delectable sandwiches. I am partial to the fresh mozzarella, peppery arugula-pesto, tomato and balsamic sandwich for its simplicity but strong ingredients. Another favorite includes the tasty mixed greens salad; a bed of greens topped with thinly sliced pear, toasted almonds, pickled radish and a light buttermilk dressing. I have also been caught ordering the quinoa salad a time or two and it is quite filling. This salad is a mix of protein-rich quinoa, arugula, candied pecans, sweet cranberries and a lemony vinaigrette. The best part of both salads, the rich goat cheese crostini that comes on the side. Always check out the daily specials as wooden spoon serves up a different quiche each day along with one of their awesome homemade soups. 

I love finding neighborhood spots that deliver both sweet and savory options and wooden spoon is one of those cafes you cannot help but regularly visit. If its a sweet treat in the afternoon with a cup of coffee, a filling mid-day lunch or grabbing a handful of pastries to take home for a weekend brunch, wooden spook will have you taken care of. 

Restaurant Review // Seasons 52

A couple weeks ago I attended a private soft opening for lone tree's newest restaurant, seasons 52. The evening allowed guests to taste their way through the expansive seasonal menu which changes four times a year. The evening was nearly flawless; knowledgeable and prompt staff, cocktails being turned out all night and food that made me a believer that this place is truly a gem in the sea of big-box restaurants in the area.

Seasons 52 is following the 'health-food trend' that has taken over the denver dining scene, as all of their dishes are under 475 calories. However, none of the food was lacking in flavor or made me feel like my 'evening out' was not an indulgent experience. The menu reads a bit difficult at first glace as there are appetizers, small plates, salads and entrees in multiple sections of the menu so, take some time perusing as you might miss something. In addition, the restaurant boast quite the expansive wine list, including many sustainable options by the glass or bottle.

Your visit would be a miss if it did not include an order of the lobster flatbread. The crispy crust of the flatbread is topped with large lumps of sweet lobster, slivers of red peppers, zesty meyer lemon, scallions and a drizzle of lobster-infused sour cream, a delicious pairing to a glass of sauvignon blanc. The presentation alone is beautiful but the well-balanced ingredients was what made this starter stand out. A close runner up would be the shrimp cocktail; the large chilled crustaceans are served with a pungent horseradish cocktail sauce that's super delicious. I was less than impressed with the crab, shrimp and spinach stuffed mushrooms though, the bland flavors did not stand up to the other appetizer offerings.

As for main courses, seasons 52 has a lot of salad options to choose from if you are looking for a lighter meal. I was a huge fan of the organic baby spinach salad with caramelized pears. Toasted walnuts, creamy gorgonzola cheese and a sherry vinaigrette were the finishing touches to this earthy salad. The lump crab wedge was another hit but felt like it needed a bit more acid or salt to bring out the flavors in the blanched vegetables and mustard dressing. If you are in the mood for a heartier meal, I would recommend the oak-grilled filet. My steak had a great seared crust and paired nicely with the accompany of red wine sauce and sauteed mushrooms. I also enjoyed the flavor of the grilled sea scallops but found them to be slightly over-cooked which took away from their delicate texture and flavor.

The food is the real star at seasons 52 but the space as a whole is also worth mentioning as its quite impressive. The expansive bar seats nearly 40 people in addition to large booths that are first come, first serve. As for the dining room, natural elements warm the space along with soft lighting to make it feel intimate but not heavy and dark. Another nice touch is the open-kitchen which is glassed in so you feel like you are part of the action but without the noise.

Seasons 52 will undoubtedly be a success and I can already see myself heading back soon for drinks in their beautiful bar or with a group of friends for a delicious dinner. I appreciated that a restaurant chain as large as seasons 52 would have such a 'local' mindset, as this is not something you see from franchises of this size. I just hope that as their new menus roll out, they continue to be as enjoyable as their current offerings. 

Restaurant Review // Maria Empanada

The first time I ever had an empanada was at a farmers market years ago. I fell in love with the flaky pastry dough, the savory filling and how delicious the ingredients came together. Then I remembered my dad's stories of eating empanadas when he was stationed in panama while in the army. He always said there was nothing better than eating fresh empanadas from the local cafes and it made me yearn for another one even more.

So when maria empanada moved its location to mississippi and broadway back and  in 2012, I was eager to get another taste of the savory spanish pastries I fell in love with. However, I will admit, it took me awhile to make my way in. I am still kicking myself for this decision as this is now one of my favorite places to stop in for breakfast, lunch and even dinner.

On any given visit, the large glass cases are filled with piping-hot empanadas with nearly a dozen different varieties to choose from. The staff is super friendly and can walk you through the ingredients in each empanada. If you are like me, they will all sound so tasty it will be hard to choose. For breakfast, I almost always order the scrambled egg, potato and chorizo; it is everything you would want in a filling breakfast but perfect to eat on the go. You also cannot leave without ordering a fresh squeezed orange juice; just make sure you ask to pour it over ice. As for lunch, I have tasted the majority of the mid-day offerings and have yet to be disappointed. I love the flavor in the classic ground beef option, peppers, spiced beef, diced eggs and briny olives. The argentina is also one of my favorites, it's full of seared steak mixed with red peppers, diced eggs, green onions and olives.

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I would say I am a novice on traditional spanish cuisine so some of the other offerings at maria empanada are a bit out of my comfort zone. The beautiful tartas, terrines and spanish tortillas always look so beautiful in the display but I have yet to defer from my typical order and try one.

If you have yet to visit maria empanadas, you need to add it to your list. The flavors are delicious and transport you to another country upon first bite. Every time I stop in, it also makes me think of my dad and his love for his time in panama. That's the thing about food, it connects people to memories while also filling you up with great food. 

Restaurant Review // Los Chingones

Los chingones is the latest venture for denver restaurateur, troy garud and this vibrant and bold contemporary mexican restaurant is following suit with gaurd's other successful dining spots in denver. Regardless if you stop in for a casual lunch, belly up to the bar for a cocktail or get rowdy late into the evening hours on the upstairs patio, your senses will be taken over on all levels. Loud music, in-your-face flavors, vivid colors, aromatic scents from the kitchen and a mix of textures all play together nicely to bring energy and excitement to your dining experience.

Now before I get ahead of myself and jump right into the food, let me set the scene from the moment you walk in. A beautiful floor-to-ceiling mural full of movement and color draws your eyes across the open kitchen in the main dining space to a happening bar (full of hipsters and foodies) at the back of the room. Modern light fixtures, large community tables, no-fuss concrete floors and dia de los muertos accent tiles fill the open-concept space. This place is consistently busy so if you happen to snag a booth, consider yourself lucky. Otherwise you are rubbing elbows (in a good way of course) with other diners at one of two bars on the first floor or sitting at one of the long community tables.

Gaurd's take on mexican food is a spin-off of traditional fare, but dialed up with bold flavor profiles and a few modern twists. The house-made tortilla chips pair great with los chingones' garden guac; creamy avocado mixed with pumpkin seeds, tomato, sweet corn and zucchini, as does the gooey and slightly spicy chorizo fundido. A visit here would not be complete without an order of the enchiladas. The tender chicken is wrapped up in a corn tortilla with oaxaca cheese and then covered in a smoky guajillo sauce that has such a great depth of flavor you will want to lick it off the plate. Another item not to miss would be the roasted brussel sprouts. The slightly-sweet flavor from the caramelization on the brussel sprouts balances the hint of chile and lime perfectly, you will want to order another round.

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The main item to order off los chingones' menu are street tacos. There are over a dozen tacos to choose from, all of which you can order a la carte for $3.5 each. Options range from skirt steak with black beans, avocado and peppers + onions, to shrimp with a chipotle cream to one of my personal favorites, butternut squash with crunchy kale, goat cheese and spiced pumpkin seeds. I have not had a chance to try some of the more adventurous tacos, such as the beef tongue with charred tomatillo or the lamb neck with a spicy arbol corn salsa but I am sure they are delicious. However, on a recent lunch visit, the 'wild card' taco was a tilapia ceviche with pickled fresno chilies and it did not disappoint; the heat of the chilies balanced the acidity of the ceviche and yet, the delicate fish did not get lost in the other ingredients.

I honestly can say, I have not ate one bad thing at los chingones thus far and I know my visits back with be often. Troy gaurd has a lot of competition in the denver marketplace with pinche tacos, comida, machete, uno mas and margs (just to name a few) all within a 10 mile radius of each other but if los chingones continues to put out delicious food, then the success of this restaurant will be long and plentiful. 

Restaurant Review // Steam Espresso Bar

A visit to steam espresso bar on south pearl street is a coffee experience. From the moment you walk into the beautifully designed space, full of natural light, reclaimed wood and industrial-chic accents, you are greeted by the friendliest of staff, welcoming you in like you are entering their home. The staff is one of the top reasons I continue to stop into steam, since its opening in 2013. They are gracious, friendly and bring warmth to every visit.

The caffeinated beverages at steam are of course top-notch as well; serving up ethically sourced coffee from boxcar roasters. While you will not find flavored drinks with caramel swirls, mocha chips and whipped cream like you might at other coffee shops in denver, you will instead have a delicious beverage that stands on its own. Steam prides themselves on serving premium coffee and crafting each cup with integrity. This is obvious if you snag one of the best seats in the house, at the high-top coffee bar, and watch the time and passion put into each pour-over. I typically order a latte or cappuccino which comes out frothy every time. Not a coffee drinker? No problem, steam serves up a bevy of loose leaf teas, chai and fresh pressed juice. Pair your beverage with a flaky chocolate croissant, a slice of almond cake or one of the many sweet treats (supplied by trompeau bakery) in the case and find a seat in the stylish space.

With warmer weather on the horizon, steam's large and welcoming patio is sure to be filled with families, business meet-ups, coffee dates and a pup or two. The patio, complete with an old airplane in the back, is just the place to enjoy a caffeine break, no matter what the time. There are few bad things to say about steam; the ambiance is refreshing and chic, the coffee is great and the staff is awesome. I guess if I had to point out a negative, the place is quite busy and you might have to wait 10 minutes for your beverage. However, I see this as a bit of a positive because seeing a locally owned and operated small business succeeding, is something I want to support. Next time you are near platt park, make sure you stop into steam, you will not be disappointed. 

Restaurant Review // Mod Market

Mod market has been in the denver area since 2010; they specialize in delicious, affordable food from simple, whole ingredients within the fast-casual dining scene. They were one of the trailblazers to put nutritional information on their menus in addition to, sourcing seasonal ingredients for their recipes. Over the past couple of years they have been a leader in providing accessible healthy meal options under $10. Simply put, mod market fills the void for 'fast food' and 'healthy eating' in one.

Denver's newest mod market just opened downtown on the 16th street mall. This location used to be a mcdonalds so you can imagine why the owners, anthony and rob, stripped everything down to the studs to remodel the space. Now, clean lines, a wall of live plants, bright pops of color and wood accents make this place feel fresh and clean. 

Two weeks ago, mod market hosted a press event during their grand opening and I was invited to attend along with about 40 other local bloggers and food writers. We tasted our way through the menu which included sandwiches, salads, pizzas and homestyle plates. The sandwiches were filling and chalked-full of fresh ingredients like the arugula mozz sandwich; fresh mozzarella, basil, basil aioli, arugula, tomatoes and a balsamic reduction. There are also tons of great salads on the menu including the superfood and farmer. The salads have tons of texture and flavor that pack a punch without a ton of unwanted calories. I would pass on ordering the pizzas though, as they are a bit of an afterthought and sadly, I was not impressed with the steak on the homestyle menu or flatiron salad. 

(clockwise from top left:  the farmer salad  /  fresh plant wall to enjoy while in line to oder  /  wood accents and thomas edison lights  /  tofu and cauliflower homestyle plate  /  bright yellow chairs)

However, the dish I loved most was from the homestyle menu; sesame and ginger spiced tofu over a bed of mediterranean quinoa with roasted cauliflower. I was most apprehensive of this dish but after one bite, I was hooked. The sauteed tofu had a firm outside but silky interior and the cauliflower was seasoned with garam masala, an indian spice mix of clove, cinnamon, cumin, cardamom and peppercorns. For me, this dish felt like something you would order in a sit-down restaurant which shows the thought and time put into many of the recipes at mod market. 

I have eaten at other mod markets before but had never heard about the values and goals behind the brand. Throughout the event, the owners and staff talked candidly about their love of scratch-cooking, healthy eating and making environmentally conscious decisions. I was equally impressed to learn mod market sources their bread from udi's (another locally based bread company) and their menu satisfies nearly every dietary restriction, vegan, celiac, paleo, raw, low carb and many more. Every order is made from scratch and the staff are gracious and excited about the product they are putting out. I know I will be going back to mod market soon and with the knowledge I gained on the brand, it makes me feel even better to support a company who is consciously putting it's diner's health first. 

Ruth Chris // Opening Night

Ruth chris steak house was founded in 1965 in the city of new orleans. The rich history, culture, music and cuisine was used as the foundation of ruth chris in its conception and remains just as present to this day. Denver is now home to one of the many new ruth chris steak houses that have opened up across the country over the past few weeks. The restaurant hosted a 'christening' on januaray 27th, complete with a second line parade and I was lucky enough to score two tickets to this fabulous feté.

Traditionally second line parades are seen across new orleans at jazz funerals. Musicians play upbeat music and strut around with umbrellas, handkerchiefs or napkins in a performance to honor the life of the deceased. The musicians are typically considered the 'first line' and the procession of guests are considered the 'second line'. Ruth chris honors their new orleans heritage at every restaurant opening with their own second line. We were able to join in on the fun as the second line parade weaved through the dining room filling the space with joyful music, dancing and lots of hankie waving.

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The evening as a whole was just a wonderful celebration filled with food and fun. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by friendly and accommodating staff, live music and a stunning dining room. The evening featured the restaurants' usda prime beef served on sizzling 500 degree plates. Yes the steak was just as delicious as you would imagine at a high-end steak house but I was equally impressed with the luscious crab cakes, velvety lobster bisque and the bread pudding with sweet whiskey sauce. While the food was great and stood up to the hype, I have to say the service was what really left an impression. From our knowledgeable waiter to the multiple managers who came to check on our meal, the service did not falter or skip a beat. This alone will be reason enough to bring me back very soon.

I hope everyone is able to try the new denver ruth chris or make a special visit to one in your home town soon. Valentine's day is just a week away so it might be the perfect opportunity.



this post was not sponsored by ruth chris; these are just my thoughts which I wanted to share with you, my lovely readers after attending the christening event at ruth chris.

Dining Disappointment // Session Kitchen

Ugh, I hate writing negative reviews; I feel horrible putting bad things out there when I know it could have been completely situational but I also want to be a honest blogger and give my true opinion... good or bad. And not everything is roses all the time, right? I would have to say that was the case when I recently visited the new session kitchen on south pearl street. 

It was a beautiful sixty-degree day without a cloud in the sky so, I thought an afternoon cocktail on a local patio would be the perfect activity. Session has been open for a few months now and on my list of places to check out due to their globally inspired tapas menu. While I did get a spot on their sunny and laid-back patio to enjoy a coin style margarita, the rest of the experience was a bit of a miss. 

The margarita was tasty but not really a standout in a city that has margs on nearly ever menu. In addition, the kennebec fries were extremely over salted (yet I must note, the roasted tomato + onion jam was awesome and super flavorful). Sadly the biggest disappointment was in the service; the host stand being empty while diners arrived, servers spilling drinks on the tables, diners being bumped into by staff walking by and servers walking away mid-question from diners. 

I know session has only been open since the end of october and kinks in the system can take a while to work out so I am hoping things can improve for the positive. I just hope that session can work out their service issues sooner than later because the restaurant felt oddly empty for a weekend afternoon, during happy hour, on a warm day in the middle of january. 

Restaurant Review // The Populist

Summer al fresco dining in a dimly lit courtyard transports you to a private oasis amongst a concrete jungle. Cool autumn nights are kept at bay in an intimate dining room bustling with conversation at community tables. Drinks at the cozy bar are crafted by expert mixologists and the service throughout the space is attentive, descriptive and some of the best in the city. Every visit to the populist in denver will have a familiar feel but will be distinctly different. It's a place that draws you back in, leaving you wanting more each visit.

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The populist puts an emphasis on community in many aspects; creating a small plates menu for sharing, communal dining tables and sourcing local product to feature on both the menu and throughout the space. I will admit I was a bit hesitant about sharing my anniversary dinner with a table full of strangers but somehow it works, without feeling like you are listening in on someone's conversation. I guess it is very similar to dining at the bar which is a favorite of mine anyway. I have made multiple visits to the populist and no experience was the same but the service and food stood out each time.

Bad service is talked about on the web and socially with friends, just like the daily news. Yet, good service is expected so it goes without mention. It must be said that every server, bartender, host and buser on staff at the populist was gracious, well-informed and willing to walk diners through the menu with poise and benevolence. The service alone would be reason enough to stop in for a cocktail or join friends for a meal.

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Oh and the food, swoon-worthy on so many accounts. The cauliflower and pear soup is one of the best items on the menu; silky, light and the perfect way to warm your belly on a cold evening. The broken duck 'cubano' plate is not only a huge portion but the crispy pork and grainy mustard is an amazing combination. There are a few salads on the menu and while the curried chickpea salad was chalked full of flavor from the toasted hazelnuts and yellow raisins, the kale and farro salad, along with the cobia crudo were unmemorable and lacking complexity and flavor. Luckily the highlights out weigh the low-points which reigns true in the beautifully plated beet agnolotti which is earthy and light all at the same time. The best part, the menu is well priced, allowing guests to try multiple dishes without breaking the bank.

The populist draws you in to see what is just beyond the ivy-lined courtyard or past the front table filled with happy diners. Your visit will become an experience that you look back on fondly and the food will entice your senses to come back for more very soon.

Restaurant Review // Larkburger

Great burger joints. Most are a bit gritty, have some serious culture or are establishments that have existed for years. However, what if I told you one of the best burgers I have had lately is from a sleek, environmentally friendly quick-serve chain restaurant? Yeah, I would question it as well but let me tell you, larkburger is no joke. It is a legit burger joint that will change all your predispositions about 'fast food' dining. 

A quick background on the launch of larkburger. The conception of the larkburger was at the larkspur restaurant in vail, colorado. The certified black angus beef burger was one of the top selling items on the menu and it inspired the chef and owners to open up quick-serve spots all over metro-denver. With the mission to serve quality ingredients while being environmentally conscious, 12 locations have opened across colorado boasting natural ingredients, biodegratable packaging, wind energy and most have compost/recycling.

As you walk in the doors of any larkburger, you enter a semi-sterile space; white tables, recycled wood paneling and lime green accents. The menus are on lcd screens and the space feels modern and minimalistic yet, welcoming all at the same time. Staff happily walk you through the menu and give suggestions on their favorite items. I think the enthusiasm the staff brings to their jobs plays a major role in the experience of dining at larkburger. Each visit I had was accompanied by staff that was well-informed and happy in demeanor.

So, now to the food. The famous larkburger is a 1/3lb beef patty, made to order. It is topped with a bright house-made lemon dijon sauce and fresh sliced tomatoes, onions and lettuce. It is a juicy burger that showcases their certified angus beef and quality ingredients. I can honestly say, their consistency in burger temperature is top-notch. Major props to the cooks at the multiple locations I dined at because their is nothing I love more than ordering a burger at 'medium' and it actually coming out at a perfect 'medium'. However, I did feel like the buns on each burger I had (which was many) came out soggy every time. This would be my biggest complaint overall.

Larkburger won the 2012 denver burger battle with their truffle, tilamook cheddar and thick-cut bacon burger. This burger was my favorite off of the menu as the balance of savory flavors and ingredients were spot-on. It literally was devoured in minutes. Other highlights off the menu include hand-spun $5 shakes (I would recommend the chocolate) featuring boulder ice cream® and their truffle-parmesan fries. While I wish the fries were a bit crisper, I did love the use of flat-leaf parsley as it gave a freshness to the fries. This past spring, larkburger added 3 new salads to their menu and a favorite was the bibb and quinoa. Bibb and romaine lettuce were tossed with prepared quinoa, carrot, crunchy cucumber, peppery radish, red onion, bay-leaf seasoned chickpeas and a house vinaigrette. Sadly the salad was a bit over-dressed with the vinaigrette but the variety of veggies was very impressive, especially for a quick-serve restaurant salad.

I can honestly say, larkburger sold me. I would happily go back when my next burger and fries craving arises as I know a great product will be waiting for me. Their dedication to quality ingredients is obvious in the first bite and their environmental awareness is icing on the cake.


Disclosure: This post was sponsored by larkburger; I was compensated for my commitment, however, all opinions expressed here are my own. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who allow me to continue creating new content for South on Broadway!

Restaurant Review // Highland Tap and Burger

A great burger is one you have to wrap both hands around, it can often cause a little juice to run down your wrist as you go to take a bite of the seasoned beef, held securely in place by a chewy bun and a few select toppings. A great burger is washed down with an ice-cold drink and often paired with crispy fries that are seasoned with just enough salt that your tastebuds crave a few more after every bite of burger.

Great burgers are easier to describe than find; even in a city that has enough burger joints to dine at for a month straight without repeating.  I had high hopes for the two-year-old, highland tap and burger in the lo-hi neighborhood of denver because it has so much going in its favor; a killer location, an energetic atmosphere and an awesome beverage list with tons of local beers on tap. Sadly, every visit I have, there is something always off and sadly most of the errors are with the food.

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The 'piece de resistance' of a burger joint is the burger. Htb's classic is the lto; a 1/3lb hand-packed locally sourced angus patty topped with lettuce, tomato, sweet red onions and a slice of american cheese. While the burger had good seasoning, it was over-cooked both times I ordered. More offensive in my book, is how small the burger is in comparison to the size of the very dry bun, nearly a 1/2 inch in diameter larger than the patty. On another visit, the very friendly waitress encouraged me to order the root beer pulled pork sandwich. Sadly the moist and flavorful pork was lost in the extra dry bun it was served in. I feel like the issue with most of the sandwiches is the source that htb gets their buns, not the contents within them. I do need to give credit to htb's house-made fries. They are crispy, flavorful and rank pretty high against their competitors (in my book) but I am not sure this side is enough to make up for the multiple missteps in the food.

The quintessential burger joint must have a great burger. It's that easy. Highland tap and burger would be a major contender in the burger scene if the food could step it up a bit. Yet, what I find ironic about this place is it is always pretty full. The bar is always packed with people bellied up watching a game, girlfriends chat around a table with craft beers in hand and even in the late hours, people stop by for a quick meal. I guess this location is unique in the sense that the food is not the shinning star and people are okay with that. So, if you are in the neighborhood and willing to grab a decent meal in a great location, highland tap and burger is your place to be, and you will not be alone.  

Restaurant Review // Denver Biscuit Company

The denver biscuit company knows a thing or two about making biscuits.  These mile-high biscuits have it all, a crusty top, layers of buttery goodness, a chewy consistency and a steamy inside.  The best part, you can order them sweet or savory, with combinations of flavor for the most discerning  palette.

Baking at high altitudes is not for the faint of heart.  Recipes have to be tweaked and reworked to get things just right but denver biscuit company has found a winning recipe at their capitol hill location on east colfax.  For those who do not know, this breakfast joint shares their space with the atomic cowboy bar and fat sully's pizza.  It sounds like an identity crisis at first but when owners drew and ashleigh shader opened up this space as a bar in 2009 they quickly realized they wanted to offer their guests more than just drinks.  So, they tacked on the pizza place and shortly after, decided to bring a great biscuit joint to the mix too.

To get the true flavor and pureness of denver biscuit, I would say order a fresh biscuit and a side of homemade jam (I loved the strawberry-rhubarb) to get things started.  If you are a fan of starting your day off on a sweet-note, an order of the biscuit french toast will do the trick.  The biscuits are pressed flat on the griddle, creating a delicious crispy crust, then topped with rich honey butter and a ladle of sweet syrup.

(clockwise from top left:  menu  /  the franklin  /  the elmer  /  guy fieri was here, check out his spay-painted mark on the wall)

However, if sweet is not your thing, there are quite a few amazing savory options to choose from too.  The franklin will fill you up so bring your appetite; buttermilk fried chicken with thick cut bacon, melted cheese and a huge serving of gravy (veggie or sausage) between a steamy biscuit.  The sausage gravy has quite the spicy kick so, if heat is not your thing, I would order the vegetarian version.  Another great choice is the elmer, its denver biscuit's take on the pulled pork sandwich.  They add 12 hour smoked pork with a slather of homemade sauce to a biscuit that is then filled with crunchy slaw and tangy pickles.

Don't believe me, just ask guy fieri from food networks' 'diners drive-ins and dives' or the slew of other national press they have received.  This place is legit and the line out the door shows that denver loves a good biscuit.  I cannot wait for my next visit to denver biscuit company for another southern meal with some of the best biscuits I have ever tasted.

Restaurant Review // The Slotted Spoon

Niche restaurants are a dime a dozen.  Some find great success in having a limited menu focusing on a single item; others struggle to make their small menu shine as there are few places to hide inconsistencies and problems.  A couple months ago I stopped into the slotted spoon, a meatball eatery in the cherry hills neighborhood of denver, to see how a restaurant solely focused on meatballs stood up.  I cannot say I was very impressed.  All the elements seemed to be in place, a sleek website, a menu highlighting the noble meatball with global influences and an understated but approachable dining space.  It all felt so right but kitchen inconsistencies and menu options left me wishing for more from my meatball.

The menu is designed for diners to pick their meatball, vessels (which ranges from salad to hoagies and pasta) and then a sauce to create the perfect meatball meal.  However, there are endless combinations which left me confused and indecisive.  I like the idea of choices but when you are literally standing at the counter for 10+ minutes, I feel like less could be more.  In addition, all upgrade items like cheese, veggies and side dishes are all an extra cost, quickly increasing the cost of your meal.  I tried 4 meatballs and my meal was $20 which seemed pretty high for how small the portions were.

My favorite meatball on the menu was the italian pork topped with san marzano tomato sauce.  This combo had great flavor from the fennel seed, sweet grilled onion and fresh basil, plus, it kept its moisture when put between a hoagie roll.  Less thrilling combinations included the swedish salmon meatball filled with mustard and dill which was topped with a dollop of tzatziki creama.    The flavor was there but the ratio of meatball to sauce was completely off, making you wish there was an extra side of tzatziki to dunk your meatball into.  Sadly the colorado beef and adobo chicken followed suite with incredibly dried-out meatballs that lacked in flavor, even when topped with sauce.

With all new restaurants there is a growth period where kinks can get worked out and menu items adjust for the market.  There is no doubt that the slotted spoon is still in this phase as there is so much potential for this place.  I guess my whole point is, if you are going to have a restaurant completely based around one item, it better be pretty spot on.  I have high hopes that with a few adjustments and a bit more consistency in the kitchen, there could be something amazing in this meatball focused restaurant.  

Restaurant review // Tavern on the Square

The dining scene in vail, co is substantially focused towards high-end, fine dining which makes sense as this mountain town caters towards a major tourist population.  Yet, some nights, you just want to kick off your ski boots and have a tasty meal without breaking the bank (relatively speaking as we are still talking about a tourist destination).  Enter tavern on the square.  This approachable but classy spot has high-arched ceilings and dark wood trim to bring some sophistication to the space.  However, the flat-screen tvs, smattering of high-top tables and kid menus aplenty, shows that this dining scene is made for the masses.

Steps away from the eagle bahn gondola inside the arrabelle hotel, diners will find typical bar fare such as chicken wings, a handful of burgers and a couple higher priced items like steaks and chops.  The burger options range from a traditional cheese burger with all natural angus beef to a black label burger with honey mustard on a pretzel roll to, my personal favorite, the ahi tuna burger; lightly seared and topped with creamy avocado, wasabi mayo and peppery arugula.  Sadly the kitchen had some inconsistencies with their grilling skills as the beef and bison burgers were all pretty dry and leaning towards well-done.  Not my favorite when you are craving a juicy, drip down your hand kind of burger.

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Tavern on the square does offer more diverse menu selections through their starters.  Options range from pork belly sliders, baked brie with a huckleberry jam, lobster mac n cheese and the crowd pleasing chili con queso.  The queso has a hint of heat with the addition of spicy chorizo and is served with doughy pretzels and also crispy tortilla chips.  I feel like this could be the perfect location for an après-ski scene where skiiers could congregate for a frosty cold beer and a few shared snacks. 

When it comes to amicable, low-key and budget conscious fare, tavern on the square is a great option if you are coming in from a day on the mountain or looking for a understated evening out.  The menu offers conventional options that are sure to please the masses and great noshes for sharing.  Hopefully the kitchen can get their cook-times in order to better the consistency of their food.  Though, I don’t think diners will mind much as they are just looking for a causal meal without the pretentiousness many vail restaurants have.  

Restaurant Review // Armando's Dakota Bar & Grill

The palm desert has many options when it comes to mexican fare, all offering their take on the margarita and approachable mexican dishes.  However, if you are looking for a place that will welcome you in like family while also filling your belly with delicious food, armando's dakota bar and grill is the place to be.  

(via)

Situated on el paseo drive in the heart of the palm desert, armando's is not hard to find as there is typically a line out the door.  The friendly staff is extremely accommodating, welcoming and the driving force in why this place is always packed with hungry locals and travelers alike.  With a large open-air dining space that lets in the evening desert breeze and an indoor bar with multiple flat-screen tvs, there is an easiness and no-frills approach which adds to the allure.

As for the food, I often times judge a great mexican restaurant by their refried beans.  Crazy I know but one bite of slow cooked, lightly salted beans with a touch of lard is the key to know you are in for a good meal.  Armando's has just this.  In addition, the chicken fajitas were a major hit.  A large cast-iron skillet comes out in a billowing cloud of smoke to then uncover a massive serving of grilled onions, peppers, juicy chicken and fresh cilantro; all to then be piled into flour tortillas with all the fixings.  The serving was huge and easily could have been shared between two people.  Another favorite were the chile rellenos.  A crispy shell enveloped a roasted, smoky and slightly spicy chile which was filled with gooey cheese.  The spice of the chile was counteracted by the cheese so you tasted only flavor, not all the heat.  

Every entree on the menu is served with either a salad or tortilla soup and all of us chose to try the soup.  I will say this was the only dish that I was confused by.  The shredded chicken in the soup was very tender and the broth had great depth and flavor.  However, it was also served with pieces of cubed white cheddar that added an odd cold element to the piping hot soup.  Other than the soup, I really have no complaints at all.  

Armando's made me feel like I had been a diner of theirs for years and was a member of their extended family.  The service alone would bring me back again and if I close my eyes right now, I can see a smiling server dropping off a smoking hot plate of fajitas.  I cannot wait to go back to palm desert for another meal at armando's.  

Restaurant Review // Russel's Smoke House

Low and slow.  That's the making of great barbecue.  Russel's Smoke House is a restaurant designed around that same methodology, in a setting paying homage to the cowboy era of Colorado's past.  

(clockwise from top left:  my family  /  baby back ribs, spaetzle and baked beans  /  the beautiful floors in the bar  /  Gina, Ryan and I  /  shredded prok shoulder, baked beans, slaw and texas toast /  cow wallpaper  /  stained glass door)

At Russel's you will find cow corrals reused for seating backs, antique tin light fixtures dimly lighting wide-plank honey floors, aqua green exposed pipe ceilings and a beautiful old stained-glass window made into a sliding door.  We loved the giant barrel of boiled peanuts next to the main dining room, along with the great cow wallpaper in the restrooms.  Fun details like these show the thought and intention that owner Frank Bonanno put into this place along with his many other restaurants.

I will 100% admit that barbecue might be the most subjective food out there because of the many styles, techniques and flavors.  Russel's uses a blend of cherry and hickory for the majority of their slow cooked meats and puts their focus on their dry-rub to give baby back ribs, house-made kielbasea, berkshire pork shoulder and smoked chicken such great deep, smoky flavor.  If you want a bit more kick, there are house-made BBQs available; a tangy vinegar, a subtly sweet version with a tomato base and then spicy, with strong pepper flavors.  

(clockwise from top left:  my parents looking so cute laughing together  /  larimer st in all it's glory  /  fried chicken, gruyere waffles and collared greens  /  house made BBQs  /  apple pie and cardamom caramel pie  /  Russel's metal sign)

The shining stars at Russel's Smoke House are obviously the meats but close runners up would be the sides.  Hands down, you need to try the bourbon glazed baked beans as they were spoon-licking good.  The gooey-rich mac and cheese along with the homemade spaetzle were decadent  without being over the top.  My husband ordered the fried chicken which was worth the 30 minute wait but mostly because it came with a gruyere cheese waffle which was airing and had great nutty flavors from the cheese.  

I feel like Russel's missed the mark with their kielbasa as the fat content was a bit high for my liking and it did not have that crispy casing which brings such great texture to the sausage.  The gravy that came with the fried chicken was another misstep due to the heavy-hand with the flour.  The  over floured consistency was less than appealing to look and eat.

Russel's Smoke House is an approachable BBQ restaurant that brings great charm and adoration to the smoke houses of old.  Their meats are deeply flavorful and nearly everything on the menu is consistently well-made.  A few missteps will not deter me from a future visit, nor will they cloud my opinion on some of the best ribs I have ever eaten.  

P.S.... these photos were part of my parent's birthday's celebrations.  Happy birthday to both of you.  I love you with all my heart!

Restaurant Review // Oak at Fourteenth

(entrance to Oak  /  crispy egg, chicken confit, roasted mushrooms on toast  /  hamachi crudo)

A bitter cold night in Boulder, CO could tempt even the most adventurous of souls to stay in versus bare the elements for a dinner out on Pearl St.  I was nearly one of those people who wanted to stay in my nicely appointed room at the St Julien, sipping coffee in my lux robe but I had reservations at one of the Top 25 Restaurants in Denver which was reason enough to bundle up and I am so happy I did.

Oak at Fourteenth is the perfect juxtaposition of a contemporary restaurant and a rustic lounge all in one.  A large oak grill greets you as you walk in to the streamlined and dimly lit space.  The restaurant is simple but endearing with exposed wood beams and an open kitchen.  The staff is friendly and knowledgeable but know how to keep their distance.  And the very best... the food is seasonal, thoughtful and nearly perfect.  

The menu at Oak is laid out for dinners to share, featuring over a dozen small plates, a handful of salads and then a few larger plates if you are in the mood for more.  A standout was the crispy farm egg atop shredded chicken confit and roasted wild mushrooms on toast.  The dish was served similar to an open face sandwich with the mushrooms and chicken being the star attractions.  I could have done without the crispy egg though, as it was an unnecessary addition to an already savory dish.  Another favorite was the hamachi crudo;  thinly sliced yellow-tail served with a punchy yet not too acidic passion fruit vinaigrette, fresno chili and fresh mint.  The balance of texture and the subtle flavors of each ingredient were spot on.  There was also just the slightest amount of crushed salt on the fish which really made the ingredients sing.  Oak missed the mark with their pan roasted sea scallops as they had nearly no flavor and the curried almonds, cauliflower and speck ham never came together on the plate as a uniformed dish.  I also felt this one was considerably under-seasoned, leaving me longing for some s+p on the table. 

(the bar at Oak  /  menu  /  the oak wood burning grill)

As I mentioned before, Oak has an incredible oak grill; it pumps out grilled short ribs, roasted chickens and braised veggies that the servers guide diners to try.  Yet, after hearing these dishes take nearly 30 minutes to cook, we went in a different direction.  I am a complete sucker for fresh pasta so I could not have been happier that we ordered the taleggio and ricotta stuffed 'agnolotti' pasta with eight-hour braised beef short ribs and crispy sunchokes.  'Agnolotti' translates to little cloud or purse which makes complete sense as it is one of the most  delicate pastas I've had.  The braised beef had amazing flavor, you could honestly taste the mirepoix, thyme, red wine and stock that went into the beef.  Ryan said this dish would be part of his 'last meal' it was so good and I have to agree with him.

My overnight in Boulder had many highlights but I must say dinner at Oak at Fourteenth takes the cake.  The restaurant was run like a well-oiled machine; turning out food that is worth of the credits they have been given in the culinary world but still managing to be approachable.  I know I will be heading back soon, even if it is just for the agnolotti and braised short ribs.

2012 // Wrap Up

Today I am celebrating my Inaugural Blog Anniversary and I honestly cannot believe!  In the past 365 days I have put so much time, effort, thought and myself into creating a space to share with others and document my life as I go. 

I hope my blog is a place that you, my readers enjoy visiting, that I have created compelling content to keep bringing you back and most importantly, authentically shared myself through it all.  Below are some of my favorite posts from the last year.  I also want to say thank you to my readers… this blog has been something I am truly proud of and I am grateful I have had so much support from day one. 

My 30x30 remix series

Our farmer’s dinner back in October  

Rocco’s 1^st birthday

Our backyard renovation

My adorable niece’s love of my hamburgers

R & J artwork from our wedding  

I cannot get enough of this video  

One of my favorite restaurant reviews

Mental unloads 

Thankfulness… here, here, here and here

Restaurant Review: Pinche Tacos

Two years ago I was at a summer movie night and grabbed some tacos from a local food truck.    Honestly, they blew me away and not just because they were the best 'food truck' tacos but because their flavors were spot-on and the ingredients were bold and delicious.  The name was clever, Pinche Tacos and owner, Kevin Morrison said his business was doing so well he was going to open a restaurant location soon.

Morrison did just that and Pinche Tacos in Capitol Hill is flourishing.  The restaurant even made Bon Appetit's '50 Best Restaurant 2012 Nominations' which is a testament to their traction in the culinary world.  Yes, even street tacos are having a culinary moment.

Pinche Tacos is small, loud, filled with lively energy and always busy.  You will be greeted by at least a handful of people standing around waiting for a table so, make your way to the bar and order a Jalisco Donkey Show; smooth Republic Blanco Tequila, fresh lime juice and punchy ginger beer all served in a copper mug.  While you sip on your drink (or two depending on the busyness of the evening) you will have waitstaff passing by carrying large plates filled with beautiful tacos that are sure to get your mouth salivating.

They take a low-key approach to ordering off their small but complex menu at Pinche Tacos.  Your waiter will drop off a slip of paper similar to a sushi restaurant and the rest is on you to decide what tacos fits your fancy.  Priced out by the individual taco, diners are able to order as many they would like which also makes this place great for groups.

Hands-down the best taco on the menu is the Agridulce; slow braised sweet and sour pork belly on top of crunchy cabbage, a bright cilantro slaw, candied garlic and a side of braising jus.  Dunk that taco in the braising juice because so much flavor and some needed moisture brings this taco to a whole new level.  Another favorite came in the subtle flavors from the Queso a la Plancha; griddled cotija cheese, creamy avocado, roasted tomatillo salsa and lime.  Make sure you also order at least one of the finger licking-good Carnitas.  The crispy roasted pork is tender and smoky, it's paired perfectly with pungent pickled red onions and rich avocado crema.

It is no surprise that Pinche Tacos is doing so well, they have a great product, a lively atmosphere and tasty drinks to keep diners coming back over and over again.  I give some serious credit to Morrison in his business plan to start out on the streets of Denver with his food truck before opening up the doors to a brick and mortar operation.  He was able to get some serious culinary buzz and demand which seems like it is now paying off for him and taco lovers alike.

Restaurant Review: Central Bistro and Bar

It has only been three months since Central Bistro and Bar opened up in Lower Highland but they have already made quite an impression on our city… and with me. 

Central is an American bistro, serving up classic ingredients but with an authenticity unparalleled in our city.  The staff is incredibly accommodating, friendly and attentive, something that goes far in my book.  In addition, the design is colorful with accents of orange and pale blue, mixed with raw materials like antique tin ceilings and iron elements.  The main dining space is accented with a huge light up signing spelling ‘HOT’ above the open kitchen which adds to the charm and fun that Central brings to its food. 

Speaking of food… a trip to Central would not be complete without an order (or two) of the deviled green eggs and ham.  Seriously, I am not a huge deviled eggs fan but these are a-m-a-z-i-n-g as the yolks are blended with herbs creating a silky texture punched up with a fresh vibrancy.  Topping the deviled eggs is a crispy piece of prosciutto that really brings the dish together with the saltiness of the meat.  I will admit, I came back to Central just for the deviled eggs… yes, they really are that good.   

I have not delved into the main dishes at Central yet because I cannot get enough of the delicious starters and snacks, such as the fried pickles and the crispy-skinned confit chicken wings with a Dijon-honey sauce.  The fried pickles were especially tasty when dunked in the accompanying mustard aioli and washed down with a seasonal brew.  As for the Dungeness crab mac n’ cheese, I didn't feel it was worth the price for the portion you received.  The dish lacked some serious flavor; surprising when you mix strong ingredients like fresh seafood, sweet roasted peppers and gooey cheese together. 

If you are looking for a more casual experience at Central, the large bar has high-top seats galore with sleek chairs and long narrow tables to gather around.  There is also an expansive patio with one of the best views of the city to feast your eyes on as you sip on tasty cocktails like the tarragon cooler (Montanya rum, cucumber and soda) or the bee’s knees (Death’s Door gin, Wildflower honey and lemon).  With so many patios in Denver losing their views due to new-build construction, I am happy to say that Central’s view will continue to be unobstructed for years to come. 

Central Bistro and Bar seems to have all the right elements pulled together for a successful restaurant in Denver, great food, a beautiful atmosphere, great views, delicious cocktails, friendly service and oh yeah, the best deviled eggs!  No matter what reason brings you into Central, it is a good one as you will be delivered an experience that hits all of your senses in the best way possible.