5 MUST-TRY RESTAURANTS IN DENVER
Denver's food scene's got it going on
• WOLF'S TAILOR
Helmed by Chef Taylor Stark, Wolf's Tailor finds inspiration in Colorado's diverse natural environment, from land to sea. Utilizing local wild game and seasonal, locally sourced produce and grains, this dining experience is creative and well-executed throughout the year, tailored to the fabric of time and the ecosystem it rests on. Wolf's Tailor features an “entrust” menu that changes nightly. The multi-course tasting menu helps with controlling waste and showcases thoughtful ingredients alongside complementary wines and spirits that work in tandem to tell a unique story. Wolf's Tailor also boasts a zero-waste approach in the kitchen and the bar.
• LINGER
Inspired by makeshift kitchens and street food, Linger caters to a crowd that wants fun. Housed in a former mortuary, this restaurant's ambience is warm and macabre, posh and welcoming. Aside from the food, the view from Linger's rooftop is one of the best in Denver. Also on the roof is a 1975 GMC RV-turned-bar and a kitchen space repurposed from a food truck. Red coconut curry from Thailand, bibimbap from Korea, dosa from India, tamales from Mexico or plant-based sliders from America, Linger finds solace in indecision. It's also a part of the Edible Beats restaurant group, which runs other influential concepts in town like Root Down, El Five and Ophelia's.
• WORK & CLASS
Housed in a shipping container, Work & Class is an expression of James Beard nominee Dana Rodriguez, who co-owns and serves as head chef of this down-to-earth concept that describes its output as a “square meal, stiff drink and fair price.” With a heavy belief in familiar, quality ingredients and unpretentious, irreverent service, the menus at Work & Class expertly fuse American with Latin, true to Rodriguez's Mexican roots. Rodriguez owns another top restaurant in town called Super Mega Bien and assisted South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone on a commissioned reopening of local favorite Casa Bonita.
• PIRATE ALLEY BOUCHERIE
In the heart of Denver, Pirate Alley Boucherie succeeds as a deli with seasonally driven food influenced by the South. The menu includes housemade charcuterie, myriad small plates and artisanal sandwiches, like po' boys, melts and heartwarming deli classics. Located in the Historic Ice House, Pirate Alley Boucherie has a big commitment to its community. The restaurant also serves as an event space that hosts cooking classes, themed dinners and other engaging cooking events.
• MY NEIGHBOR FELIX
Self-described as a Colorado/Mexican restaurant. this concept is a hot spot for millennials looking for a night, or afternoon, out on the town. The food is simple and traditional, yet incorporates exciting twists at every corner. That mixed with quality ingredients and reliably beautiful presentations is what My Neighbor Felix is all about. Initial success is driving growth; a fourth location is on the way. It's operated by the Lotus restaurant group, which also runs The ViewHouse, another Denver favorite known for its scenic views and cozy, sports bar-like atmosphere.