Updated - Off the Beaten Path: Suburban Favorites

If you are renting a car while in town, these gems are very special and are worth venturing into Denver's neighborhoods and suburbs.

Tocabe - yes, its Native American food! Fry bread tacos, either stuffed or served flat, steak or chicken at a counter set up similar to Chipotle where you order and they make it. Pick your bean type, toppings and salsa. I love the stuffed chicken taco with the hominy salsa. They have great green chili stew and buffalo ribs with blueberry sauce, unique and yummy. Located at 3536 W 44th Ave (Corner of Lowell and 44th) in Denver's Berkeley Neighborhood, good eats and charming too. http://www.tocabe.com/

Duo - Celebrating its 10 year anniversary. Located in the charming Highland neighborhood at 2413 W. 32nd Ave (cross street is Zuni) this is a hidden gem with a relaxed vibe, and mellow environment where diners can take as much time as they wish.
They are passionate supporters of local organic farms, purchase products from many of these local suppliers and they can provide a gluten free menu on request. They also have a James Beard Award nominated Pastry chef who has created some of the most heavenly desserts I have ever tasted. Something else to note is Duo's wine list, which although is smaller than other restaurants there are some exceptional wines, that are reasonably priced. Of course the menu is seasonal and varies, but the experience is always spot on. Open for Dinner 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Monday - Saturday (closes 9:00 p.m. Sunday) or weekend Brunch 10:00 a.m - 2:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Reservations recommended at dinner.
http://duodenver.com/index.html

Cafe Jordano - This is one of my favorite Italian restaurants. Dishes here are incredibly special and filling. Real stick to your ribs kind of stuff, and in my opinion they have the best fried calamari in town. Entree highlights: I love the Pasta Barbaresca which is penne pasta with grilled sausage, white sauce and melted mozzarella or Spaghetti Alla Pescatore, spaghetti with shrimp, mussels and fish in red sauce. Have wine with dinner or not, there are some good Italian bottles for $15 - $20. Pizza isn't served here but portions are huge so make sure you're hungry. Unless you have a big party (6 or more) they don't take reservations and dinner gets very busy so it's good to go right at opening (5:00) or after 8:00. If you want a bit more mellow have lunch instead with a smaller menu. Located in Lakewood just northwest of Denver at 11068 W Jewell (Kipling and Jewell) in a strip mall, it is definitely off the beaten path but worth the trip. http://cafejordano.com/