A Few Downtown Favorites

I try to visit my favorite places now and then to remind myself why I like them so much. I thought I would provide a few of my favorite bites by some of our superstar chefs, that are walking distance of  Festival Village.

Rioja (1431 Larimer St - in Larimer Square) - Executive Chef/Owner Jennifer Jasinski serves up Mediterranean dishes inspired by local, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy the Fresh Bacon appetizer (cardamom spiced Kurobuta pork belly, Madras curry scented garbanzo bean purée), it is to die for. Chef's special handmade pastas (Hazelnut Ravioli, or Porcini Gnocchi for example) are also excellent. For entrees, there is a seasonal vegetarian dish (to be determined), along with my current favorite: Grilled Filet of Beef, cannellini bean purée, tarragon-mustard marinated fava/garbanzo beans, oven dried tomatoes, bone marrow compound butter, Bordelaise sauce; so delicious! They also have a great wine list with servers who have knowledge if you need advice. Weekday lunch is available with some menu differences (allegedly you can still get the Fresh Bacon appetizer), and weekend brunch. The desserts are awesome too! Be prepared to spend a bit more here but it is worth it. Check out the menus and wine list: http://www.riojadenver.com/ 

CLOSED-Euclid Hall Bar and Kitchen is a sister restaurant to Rioja located just around the corner from it, in Euclid Hall, an 1883 building at 1317 14th Street. An American tavern that boasts high quality pub food with an extensive beer list (including some gluten free options), and creative cocktails. The menu is very diverse and even a larger group will find something they like. Sausages are made in house, the Boudin Noir is particularly tasty.
Try a Roasted Beet Salad, some Fried Cheese Curds or the dish that keeps bringing me back; Bruleed Beef Marrow Bones, for the carnivore. Poutines (french fries with cheese curds and gravy) as some may remember from our days in Montreal are listed separately. There is a vegetarian choice here with the Wild Mushroom and Porcini gravy. I am fond of the Roasted Duck, which I often eat by itself.
Their entrees are a range of special versions of classics like Chicken and Waffles (the bird is fried quail), Veal Schnitzel (Quebecois style), and a seasonal vegetarian option, which currently is a grilled Camembert and Pear sandwich. Sides can also be enjoyed as meals as there are many veggie and starch options. They are open later than some, 2:00 am (kitchen closes an hour earlier) every night except Sunday, if you want to grab a bite after one of the late small group concerts this could be a great choice. http://euclidhall.com/index.html

Osteria Marco also in Larimer Square (1453 Larimer), Chef/Proprietor Frank Bonanno's, casual Italian osteria is delightful and one can enjoy snacks and drinks or have a several course meal. Start with a selection from the Formaggi and Salumi bar. Try a Classic Caesar salad or the unique Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Pancetta and red onion. For snacks try some Meatball Sliders or the Arancini - tomato basil risotto rolled up in a ball and fried is fabulous. Diners wanting a little more than snacks have the option of Paninis, Pizzas and even entrees like Eggplant Parmesan made with fresh mozzarella, Pan Seared Scallops and Maple Glazed Duck Breast to name just a few. The wine list is all Italian and huge but don't be afraid to ask your servers, or just order a cocktail. Citrus used for the cocktails is squeezed daily and there are lots of choices. http://www.osteriamarco.com/

Getting hungry? The Diva needs to eat...Ask the Diva questions or make a suggestion below or shoot me an e-mail.