Price Legend
$ average entree under $10
$$ average entree $11-15
$$$ average entree $16-25
$$$$ average entree $26 and above
Northern Aurora
Cedar Creek Pub
(Tavern) The only independent restaurant on Aurora’s sprawling medical and research campus has a strong local focus with Colorado meats, beer, wines and spirits. The menu includes the top-selling barbecue Colorado elk burger with cheddar and bacon, plus Dale’s Pale Ale-infused fish and chips, meat pops and street fish tacos. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner, late night daily. 2100 Ursula St., Aurora. 303-537-4210; cedarcreekpub.com $$
Flava
(Soul food) Flava is not your mother’s soul food cafe. Owner Sandy Hullum kicked out the cans, cut back the salt, and makes everything from scratch. She delivers righteous lightly fried catfish, an exceptional hand-formed burger, real fried chicken, great greens and strong iced tea. Fans love the distinctive coconut custard pie jam-packed with sweet coconut and a toasted macaroon-like crown and the fact that we can enjoy it with a well-made cafe au lait. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily, weekend brunch. 15343 E. 6th Ave., Aurora. 303-856-3590. $
La Cueva
(Mexican) “This is home fare — the burritos, the tacos, the red chile — they are definitely from there,” says Alfonso Nunez, co-owner of the eatery that has served his family’s Mexican recipes since 1974. One favorite specialty is the complex mole sauce on chicken; the red chile sauce is beloved on enchiladas. Liquor: Full Bar. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Lunch, dinner Mon.-Sat. 9742 E. Colfax Ave., Aurora. 303-367-1422; lacueva.net $$
Pho 888 Vietnamese Noodle & Grill
(Vietnamese) This modest shop in a strip mall dishes pho and noodle bowls that fans rave about, especially the broth and noodles crowned with rare steak sided with Thai basil, lime, jalapeno and bean sprouts. Other favorites include the rice noodles with grilled pork and the cool rice paper-wrapped rolls with dipping sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a chance on the highly recommended avocado boba drink. If not, stick with the dessert-like, dark-roasted Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not Needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 539 Sable Blvd., Aurora. 303-367-4180. $$
Sue of Siam
(Thai) By offering an open kitchen, Sue of Siam’s owners want you to know that you’re getting fresh, authentic Thai food. The Pad Thai is always a favorite, but try the Pad Khing with fresh ginger or the rich red curry and any of their meats. Give the drunken noodles a shot and taste the hot chili and holy basil that give this dish its distinctive flavor. To finish the meal, try the sweet, sticky rice with mango. Small things, like homemade chocolate chip muffins baked by the owner make this place stand out. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not available. Hours: Lunch, dinner Tues.-Sun. 106 Del Mar Circle, Aurora. 720-949-1980. $
Tacos Y Salsas
(Mexican) Tacos Y Salsas dishes tacos, gorditas, burritos and tortas filled with chopped meats from al pastor to barbacoa. The torta Milanesa is a griddled soft bun layered with chicken-fried beef, cheese, avocado and lettuce. What elevates this and all the other dishes is the small eatery’s extensive salsa bar featuring six types of salsas, sliced radishes and onions, chopped cilantro and lime. Add a spoonful of edgy habanero salsa to your sandwich. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. 9103 E. Colfax Ave., Aurora. 303-367-1046; tacosnsalsas.com $
Central Aurora
The Athenian Restaurant
(Greek) American, Mexican and Greek dishes rule at breakfast and lunch, but at night The Athenian becomes a Greek bistro complete with flaming cheese, shots of ouzo, and shouts of “Opah!” The best-sellers include The Zorba, a big fat platter for four loaded with pastisio, mousaka, tiropitas, spanakopitas, gyro, dolmades, olives, feta cheese, tzatziki and pita bread. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. 15350 E. Iliff Ave., Aurora. 720-578-6011; $$$
Bender’s Brat Haus
(German) Sometimes we just want a brat and the best place to get one in the metro area is at Bender’s, Aurora’s bastion of Wisconsin comfort fare. They start it right by grinding pork and filling their own Sheboygan-style links. The sausages are flame-grilled and split on a fresh white bun with onions, sauerkraut and brown mustard and a side of warm German potato salad. Liquor: Beer, wine. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner Mon.-Sat. 700 S. Buckley Rd., Aurora. 303-872-3569; $
Breakfast King
(American) Diners are a lost art, in our book. A tall stack of pancakes, heaping pile of hashbrowns or crispy bacon with a cup of hot black always has a home in our faces, and there are few places in the metro area that serve that kind of no nonsense grub like the Breakfast King. Eggs, bacon and chicken fried everything top our list of picks off their menu, and don’t be intimidated if it seems like everyone there knows each other — they probably do. But the waiters will treat you like a regular just the same. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not necessary. Hours: Open 24 hours, daily. 300 W. Mississippi Ave., Denver. 303-733-0795; $
Cafe Paprika
(Moroccan) Cafe Paprika has been serving delicious Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine since 1993 and has become known for its chicken bastilla, the savory Moroccan meat pie. It arrives at the table in a cloud of spice and saffron. Within crisp, golden phyllo dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon nests a warm melding of ground chicken, onions and nuts with egg custard and spices. It’s a wonderful celebratory dish. Liquor: None. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Lunch, dinner Mon.-Sat. 13160 E. Mississippi Ave., Aurora. 303-755-4150; cafepaprika.com $$
China Jade
(Chinese) Skip the same old sweet-and-sour pork when you visit China Jade. Instead, grab a copy of the special “Chinese” menu that features the really good stuff. Our go-to genuine Szechuan-style dish is wontons in red spicy oil. These have nothing in common with those cream cheese- and “krab”-filled wontons dished by many Chinese cafes. These are delicate pasta envelopes filled with green onion-y ground pork that are drenched in Szechuan chile-infused oil that tastes benign at first but gradually spreads warmth across your face. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Open Wednesday-Monday, lunch, dinner daily. 12203 E. Iliff Ave., Aurora. 303-755-8518. $$
Dozens
(Breakfast) Find yourself a spot next to Dozens’ wall of fame and gaze at how many regulars have taken pictures with their rolls in far-flung places around the globe. Yeah, the cinnamon rolls and just about everything else here are that good. Priding themselves on brunch — particularly eggs — Dozens is an Aurora staple on Havana that deserves its lofty rep. We recommend anything with eggs — anything, and don’t forget about the cinnamon rolls. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Breakfast, lunch daily. 2180 S. Havana St. Aurora. 303-337-6627. dozensrestaurant.com $$
Fat Boys Bar and Grill
(American) Just like the name states, the menu isn’t exactly steeped in health food here. You can order an entire foot of onion rings stacked high. Named after the hometown of Fat Boy, the “Chicago Burger” is a half-pound patty topped with chili, bacon, onions, lettuce, tomato, pickle and jack cheese. Stay on the east with the Fat Boy Reuben packed with warm pastrami between thick marble rye bread and covered in Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and thousand-island dressing. Liquor: Full Bar. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner, late night daily. 10660 E. Alameda Ave., Aurora. 303-344-1905; fatboys-sportsbar.com $
Helga’s German Restaurant and Deli
(German) German-style comfort fare here starts with thin-pounded pork schnitzel covered in warm brown sauce sided with buttered noodle-y spaetzle dumplings and soft red cabbage and finishes with a slice of apple strudel. Fans also flock in for sausages and German pilsner. Liquor: Full Bar. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 14197 E. Exposition Ave., Aurora. 303-344-5488; helgasdeli.com $$
Las Fajitas Mexican Restaurant
(Mexican) For seven years this family-owned eatery has been famous for its sizzling namesake dish in five varieties — steak, chicken, vegetarian, shrimp and carnitas — all dished with guacamole, sour cream and tortillas. Other specialties include chile rellenos (crisp or soft), chicharron burrito, butter-sautéed camarones a la diabla, and grilled pollo azado. Meals conclude with churros — hot Mexican-style doughnuts. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Accepted. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 2680 S. Havana St., Aurora. 303-755-3366; $$
Maandeeq East African Cafe
(African) The menu changes every day here but look for Somali favorites including lamb sambusas (meat-filled pastry) and suqaar (beef cooked with veggies) or roasted goat served with canjeero (spongy bread similar to Ethiopian injera), cardamom-scented rice, and banana. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. 1535 S. Havana St., Aurora. 303-745-2355. $$
Masalaa
(Indian) Southern India’s famous masala dosa shines at Masalaa, where lightly spiced mashed potatoes are tucked inside a pliable-but-crispy crepe made from rice and lentil flour cooked on a griddle. Spice is added with tamarind or mint chutneys and cooling raita. Other dosas enclose fried onions or are simply brushed with butter. The vegetarian buffet attract crowds. Liquor: Beer, wine. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 5:30 p.m.-10 p.m., Sat.-Sun. noon-3 p.m., 5:30 p.m.-10 p.m. 3140 S. Parker Rd., Aurora. 303-755-6272. masalaausa.com. $
Moe’s Original BBQ
The key word here is “original.” At Moe’s they take that idea very seriously. Of course, chef Mike Fernandez would be partial to Alabama-style barbecue — slow cooked, wet and lots of sauce — so we’ll follow his lead when it comes to what’s “original.” In his Southern drawl — or is it Alabama stammer? — he describes our favorite sandwich, pictured here. A low- and slow-cooked pork shoulder, shredded and served heaping on a so-soft bun. Mike likes it ‘Bama-style: topped with slaw and both red and white sauces. Although the sandwich is amazing, the fresh-made sides almost steal the show. We suggest grits if they’ve got ‘em; banana pudding is good, too. Or, go whole hog and get two servings of the jambalaya. You won’t complain. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 2727 S. Parker Rd., Aurora. 720-306-6979. moesdenver.com $
Noonan’s
(American) Pour Kids owns this golfers’ delight right off Heather Ridge golf course and their focus is on local beers and food made from scratch. Their Poblano Queso dip — a housemade cheese lover’s dream of queso, roasted poblano peppers and green chiles topped with homemade pico de gallo — is a customer favorite. The fried portabella mushrooms are juicy, meaty baby bellas dipped in homemade batter and served with ranch. You don’t have to be a kid to enjoy one of their four smothered and covered tater tot bowls, or feel free to step into South Park with the “Cartman Burger” that has jalapeño cream cheese and thick hickory smoked bacon. Liquor: Full Bar. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner, late night daily. 13521 E. Iliff Ave., Aurora. 720-246-0309. $
Pho 75
(Vietnamese) Pronouncing pho is difficult for the linguistically challenged — it sounds like “fuh” — but the tongue can’t hide its pleasure when consuming the piping-hot Vietnamese noodle dish that perfectly combats Colorado’s cold winter months. In no time flat at Pho 75 — which finds a cozy home in the middle of a strip of Asian markets and restaurants on the western edge of the city — you can be seated with a bowl of the classic steaming broth, which seems to magically maintain its temperature and cooks tender, white rice noodles and thin slices of meat underneath its aromatic surface while you eat. The broth is a complex equation you don’t have to solve, just enjoy, and is best left to those who know its secrets. Sliced steak is best for newbies, but pho veterans can get more exotic with dishes such as Bún bò Hue (vermicelli noodles with beef shanks and lemongrass). Add some sriracha, lime, jalapeño, mint leaves or crispy bean sprouts and create your own comfort food flavor. Portions are generous at Pho 75, but order the small bowl of extra noodles, they are definitely worth it when you’re scraping the bottom of the bowl with chopsticks and soup spoon looking for more. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not necessary. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 2050 S. Havana St. Aurora. 303-671-8899. $
Rosie’s Diner
Rosie’s is a genuine diner that nostalgically takes patrons back to the ’50s with jukeboxes at each table and penny candy at the counter. The all-day menu boasts all the classic diner dishes you expect including Denver omelets, chili cheese fries, Greek salad, peanut butter shakes, liver and onions, baby back ribs, chile rellenos and pie. Hours: Mon-Sun 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. 303-752-3663; www.rosiesdiner.com; 14061 E. Iliff Ave. Neighborhood: Central East Cuisine: American; Cost: $
Señor Miguel’s
(Mexican) This small, family-owned spot is famous for its hotter-than-hot New Mexico-style green chile smothering breakfast burritos, Navajo tacos, plus various tostadas, tacos, enchiladas and chile rellenos. Fans love the big cinnamon sugar-dusted sopapillas for dessert. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not Needed. Hours: Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. 14583 E. Alameda Ave., Aurora. 303-360-9284. $$
Southern Aurora
Blue Lagoon Asian Bistro
(Asian) If your family is squabbling about which Asian eatery to visit, Blue Lagoon solves the problem. Chinese fans will be pleased by the kung pao chicken, pork in garlic sauce, sesame tofu and combo fried rice. Thai aficionados will appreciate the tom yum goong soup, pad Thai, Thai spring rolls, and pineapple curry with chicken. And Japan is represented with sushi, seaweed salad, teriyaki chicken, calamari tempura rolls and seafood udon. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Required. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 1695 Peoria St., Aurora. 303-360-6688; bluelagoonasianbistro.com $$
Carmine Lonardo’s Italian Deli and Meat Market
(Italian) The iconic Italian sausage sandwich features Lonardo’s famous Italian link sausage flecked with fennel and pepper tucked in soft Italian bread, covered in rich tomato sauce with basil and real provolone. It’s wrapped in white waxed butcher paper and it’s ridiculously good. The store includes a meat case manned by actual butchers plus aisles of imported Italian necessities. Liquor: None. Hours: Lunch, dinner Mon.-Sat. 15380 E. Smoky Hill Rd., Aurora. 303-699-4532. $$
Chicken Teriyaki No. 6
(Japanese) The polyrhythmic “chop-chop” of a sharp cleaver and pungent soy perfume welcome fans to the 10-year-old, affordable, ma-and-pa place serving the vast non-sushi tradition of Japanese fast food including chicken and beef teriyaki, sesame chicken, yakisoba, ramen, fried rice, gyoza, and katsu (deep-fried cutlets). Start with a good cup of miso, and enjoy char-grilled teriyaki chicken atop wok-fried green cabbage, or a vegetable tempura cornucopia. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner Mon.-Sat. 2225 S. Peoria St., Aurora. 303-337-1921. $
Daniel’s of Paris Bakery
(Bakery) Among the best-sellers in the morning are the sticky pecan rolls, cinnamon rolls and danish. For pain au chocolat, buttery croissant dough is wrapped around semi-sweet chocolate. Daniel’s of Paris is known for authentic tortes like the “Elodie,” a chocolate genoise cake with Grand Marnier syrup, thin layers of chocolate ganache and raspberry mousse coated in dark chocolate ganache. Hours: Breakfast, lunch Tues.-Sat. 12253 E. Iliff Ave., Aurora. 303-751-6084; danielsofparis.com $$
Darya Persian Restaurant
(Middle Eastern) It may be hard to pronounce, but zereshk poloe and morgh is absolutely wonderful. Owner Hassan Soleimani’s welcoming eatery roasts saffron-infused, bone-in bird until it literally falls off the bone and then dishes it on a mound of buttered, steamed basmati dotted with dozens of tiny, tart, dried barberries. We enjoyed it with silky hummus and mirza ghasemi, a baked eggplant dip, and a glass cup of floral Persian tea. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 10890 E. Dartmouth Ave., Aurora. 303-750-4326; daryarestaurant.net $$
Dad and Dude’s Breweria
(American) The 3-year-old Dad and Dude’s Breweria located near the hectic intersection of Parker and Arapahoe feels familiar. Tom Hembree, one of the owners, greets us with a handshake and a smile, like you just stepped into your uncle’s basement bar. That laid-back style is evident in their signature dish, the “420 pizza,” and resident beer on tap, “Dank IPA.” Mason Hembree, the son and “the dude,” came up with the concept of using the spent grain from the brew in the pizza dough, which underscores their idea that “beer and pizza is the new wine and cheese.” Liquor: Full Bar. Reservations: Available. Hours: Lunch, dinner, late night daily. 6730 S. Cornerstar Way, Suite D Aurora 303-400-5699; breweria.com $$
The English Teacup
(British) The Teacup’s scratch-made round scones (plain to cherry mango) are presented warm on a china plate accompanied by rich clotted cream, imported seedless raspberry jam, BBC accents and a well-made “cuppa” tea. The shop also dishes traditional meat pies and sandwiches and sells British grocery items, soups, jams, chocolates and even haggis. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Tea room Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 1930 S. Havana St., Aurora. 303-751-3032; englishteacup.com $$
French Press Cafe and Bakery
(Bakery/Cafe) A large breakfast menu offers house-made corned beef hash, crab Benedict and buckwheat pancakes with Devonshire cream. A lox salad, Reuben sandwich, pear and brie panini and burgers with caramelized onions fill the lunch roster. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Breakfast, lunch daily. 15290 E. Iliff Ave., Aurora. 303-369-3111; myfrenchpress.com $
Las Fajitas Mexican Restaurant
(Mexican) For seven years this family-owned eatery has been famous for its sizzling namesake dish in five varieties — steak, chicken, vegetarian, shrimp and carnitas — all dished with guacamole, sour cream and tortillas. Other specialties include chile rellenos (crisp or soft), chicharron burrito, butter-sautéed camarones a la diabla, and grilled pollo azado. Meals conclude with churros — hot Mexican-style doughnuts. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Accepted. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 2680 S. Havana St., Aurora. 303-755-3366; lasfajitascolorado.com $$
Pearl of Siam
(Thai) Pearl of Siam doesn’t need flashy signs or grand entrances to bring in customers; the pad Thai does that on its own. Sarin and Sandy are two sisters who grew up with freshly made Thai food and made their restaurant dream a reality when they opened this small but bona fide eatery. Located near Hampden and Tower, this authentic Thai palace brings home plenty of metro area awards for its mastery of the noodle-based, crunchy, sweet, spicy and salty Thai specialty. Liquor: None. Reservations: None. Hours: Lunch, dinner Tues-Sun. 18660 E. Hampden Ave., Aurora. 303-617-7408; pearlofsiam.net $$
Seoul Korean BBQ
(Korean) Fans of Korean barbecue flock to Seoul to do some grilling — not smoking — at the table where diners cook thin slices of meat and vegetables and nibble on banchan — shared side dishes including kimchi (fermented cabbage). Liquor: Beer, wine. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 2080 S. Havana St., Aurora. 303-632-7576; seoulkoreanbbq.com $$$
Summit Steakhouse
(Steakhouse) The Summit has been Aurora’s special-occasion steakhouse for many years. The eatery is lauded by locals for its filet mignon and chateaubriand and great side dishes. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily, Sunday brunch. 2700 S. Havana St., Aurora. 303-751-2112; thesummitsteakhouse.com $$$$
Sushi Katsu
(Japanese) Sushi Katsu employs an army of chefs to serve its made-to-order, all-you-can-eat Japanese menu including sushi, sushi rolls, gyoza, octopus salad, shrimp tempura, salmon teriyaki, BBQ ribs, chicken yakisoba and udon noodles. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Accepted. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 2222 S. Havana St., Aurora. 303-368-8778; denver-sushi.com $$$
Wholly Cannoli Cafe
(Italian) Wholly Cannoli’s namesake product is nearly perfect: A crisp, tubular shell filled with sweetened ricotta and chocolate chips so good we’re ready to sing “O Sole Mio.” Check out the soft, chewy pignoli (pine nut) cookies, eggplant parmesan grinders, chicken piccata and pizza. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. 22691 E. Aurora Pkwy., Aurora. 303-400-4110; whollycannolicafe.com $
Southeast Aurora
Bent Fork American Grill
(American) The Colorado-inspired contemporary fare starts with house-made sauces, soups and dressings. Popular starters include barbecue carnitas quesadilla with pulled pork or a tossed Cobb salad. Entrees range from grilled salmon BLT with smoked bacon and lemon aioli to buffalo pot roast with butternut squash. On the side: green chile mac-n-cheese. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 12191 E. Iliff Ave., Aurora. 303-337-6600; bentforkgrill.com $$$
The Dusty Boot
(American) It’s not your typical steakhouse. You can watch the game here, have a beer — 10-gallon hat and boots aren’t required. Want proof? Their dubiously named “Fatty Melt” is a juicy beef patty, sautéed onions and mushrooms sandwiched between two grilled cheeses. Typical cowboy grub? Not so much. A heart attack, maybe. Kind of like the O.K. Corral, but without the guns. Liquor: Full Bar. Reservations: Available. Hours: Lunch, dinner, late night daily, weekend brunch. 16270 E. Arapahoe Rd., Aurora, CO 303-565-4200. foxfield.dustyboot.com $$$
HaPa Sushi
(Japanese/Sushi) Adventurous eaters will find a lot to love at Hana from the agedashi tofu in broth and sashimi to spicy scallop handrolls and salmon skin tempura. More conventional appetites will appreciate individual sushi items, lunch bento boxes, New York steak teriyaki and chicken curry. Favorite rolls include the Fuji, which has shrimp tempura, cucumber, masago eggs and mayo on the inside and orange, strawberry and mango sauces outside. Dessert includes green tea cheesecake. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Accepted. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 16911 E. Quincy Ave., Aurora; 303-680-6099; aurorasushi.com $$
Mt. Fuji Sushi and Hibachi
(Japanese/Sushi) Besides individual sushi, Mt. Fuji’s roll roster includes the Super Dragon combining eel, crab, tuna, salmon, yellowtail and avocado. Appetizers from soft-shell crab tempura to grilled yellowtail collar can be matched with sake. In addition to classic teriyaki, tempura, udon and tonkatsu dinners, full meals are available cooked entertainingly on a flat hibachi grill. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Available. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 6100 S. Main St. (Southlands), Aurora. 303-699-9388; mtfujiaurora.com $$$
Parkway Bar and Grill
(American) Parkway’s expansive menu has everything including buffalo shrimp, green chile, steaks, pasta, Mexican food, pizza and anything in between. A few of our favorites are the blue crab cakes made with chunks of tender crab meat, fried and served with thick, creamy creole remoulade. Those with large appetites should dive into the massive chicken-fried steak atop buttery mashed potatoes and thick gravy along with corn on the cob. Parkway’s pizzas are famous with their customers and can even be grilled. Instead of fries or a side salad, try the fresh balsamic tomatoes for a healthy twist. Liquor: Full Bar. Reservations: Available. Hours: Lunch, dinner, late night daily. 22775 E. Aurora Pkwy., Aurora. 303-693-6200; parkwaybarandgrill.com $$
Real De Minas
(Mexican) In Colorado, we are embarrassed with the riches we have for Mexican options. Yes, there are chains, and there are restaurants with divers. But beyond those, we have a wealth of opportunities for authentic Mexican flavor, without a lot of smothered cheese and “PEE-coh DEE-gai-low.” Real de Minas, with two Aurora locations, is one of those places. Soft tortillas, authentic heat and traditional spices help give Real de Minas an air of authenticity that we can appreciate. Take for instance their Mulitas, soft corn tortillas filled with Oaxacan cheese, guacamole and Mexican cream. We like Real’s Brocheta Mary Tierra: shrimp, steak and chicken, seasoned and grilled to perfection and laid on a bed of fluffy Mexican rice. It’s nice to have options. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Not necessary. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. Multiple Aurora locations. realdeminasrestaurant.com $$
Shinjuku Japanese Steakhouse
(Japanese) At Shinjuku Japanese Steak House, it’s basically pick your protein — from chicken breast to steak and lobster — and watch as the toque-topped teppan chef starts the show, sizzling and flipping food on a flat griddle coupled with dancing, comedy and percussion produced by peppermills and knives. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 14045 E. Evans Ave., Aurora. 303-750-7979; shinjukuus.com $$
Thai Garden Asian Fusion
(Thai/Asian) Start with chicken satay or grilled beef salad. Warm your palate with seafood favorites from sesame scallops to Vietnamese garlic butter shrimp. But don’t miss Thai Garden’s impressive roster of noodle dishes including shrimp pad Thai, chicken drunken noodles, Hong Kong noodles, veggie lo mein and tofu snow white noodles. When mango’s in season, finish up with ripe mango and sweet sticky rice. Liquor: Beer, wine. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 16911 E. Quincy Ave., Aurora. 303-400-1173; thaigardenasianfusion.com $$
Wine Experience Cafe & World Cellar
(American) When it comes to restaurants that offer diverse reds, whites, pink and bubblies, the Wine Experience Cafe is lauded by local diners as the top choice for a celebratory dinner. We like the fact that all of the 150 wines on the menu are available next door at the World Cellar. The menu includes grilled chicken pot pie, mac-n-cheese with crabmeat, and for brunch, a bacon cinnamon roll with maple bacon cream cheese frosting. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner Tues.-Sat. 6240 S. Main St. (Southlands), Aurora. 303-690-1025; wineexperiencecafe.com $$$
Nearby
Bagel Deli & Restaurant
(American/Deli) Lots of places serve bagels, but the Bagel Deli feels like home. That’s because owners Joe and Rhoda Kaplan and family are always on the premises. They deliver the deli icons — chicken in a pot, blintzes, rugelach, latkes and pastrami sandwiches — New York-style (with coleslaw and Russian dressing). And those real locally baked bagels? They’re smeared with house-made cream cheese. Liquor: Beer, wine. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. 6439 E. Hampden Ave., Denver. 303-756-6667; bageldeli.com $$
Bistro Al Vino
(International) Trying new wines is easy at the Bistro with its array of flights — small samples of three or four wines. The Sinatra’s Favorites flight includes an Italian Chianti, Amarone, Barolo and Montepulciano. Match the wines with favorites including Dungeness crab cakes, BBQ baby back ribs, bacon-wrapped scallops, fried chicken and butternut squash ravioli. Comfy side dishes range from bacon mac-n-cheese and creamed spinach, to tempura vegetables and crispy bacon with Nutella. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Recommended. Hours: Dinner Mon.-Sat. 15352 E. Ida Dr., Centennial. 303-400-3166; bistroalvino.com $$$
City O’ City
(American) Cap Hill gets a lot of the good stuff. Tucked away on a corner near the Capitol is City O’ City, a bastion for fresh food and fresh ideas. From the kitchen to the table and everything on the wall, City O’ City is a good mix between bohemian and Bushwick. The restaurant also sports one of the city’s best cafés with coffee and pastries, but we’re in for the food. Among our favorites: real poutine and a favorite? Tempeh bacon hash. Curious? So were we. But after the first bite, all your questions are drowned in creamy egg and caramelized onions. Liquor: Wine, beer. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 206 E. 13th Ave. Denver. 303-831-6443; cityocitydenver.com $$
Cody’s Bar & Grill
(American/Italian) You may not get past Cody’s big list of tapas, tasty small plates like crab cake-wrapped sugar cane, mushroom pot stickers and goat cheese crostini. If you restrain yourself you can take a fork to a chicken Caesar salad or grilled fresh salmon with house-made pesto, tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic and olive oil on angel hair pasta. Other Italian-American delights range from ribeye steak in creamy white wine sauce over fettuccine, pizza with spicy adobo shrimp, classic comforting eggplant Parmesan and fresh clams in red clam sauce with linguini. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Required. Hours: Lunch, dinner Mon.-Sat. 10253 E. Iliff Ave., Denver. 303-750-1580; codysdenver.com $$
College Inn
(American) Billed as the “friendliest place in Denver,” the College Inn had a rich history of getting med students from the old nearby CU medical school soused after clinicals. After the school left, regulars kept going to the College Inn thanks to its familiar atmosphere and no-nonsense grub like the Brunch Burger: A luscious lump of ground chuck, seared on a hot grill. The burger is topped with smoky cheddar, crispy bacon and its piece de resistance — a golden fried egg. Sure, it’s not exactly heath food, but that kind of fare has kept the College Inn going long after the college left. It’s worth getting smart about. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Not needed. Lunch, dinner daily. 4400 E. 8th Ave. Denver, 303-329-9532. $
IZAKAYA DEN
(Japanese) Sushi can be dramatically different. It can either be an all-you-can-eat affair, shared between friends after a late night, or it can be a ceremonial occasion, with plenty of pageantry and tradition. Izakaya Den is a little of both. The well-regarded restaurant on Pearl Street has made its name with attention to detail, but the restaurant is far from unapproachable. We like the happy hour, which features a jalapeño hamachi that’s deliciously new school. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 1487 S. Pearl St. Denver. 303-777-0691 izakayaden.net. $$$
The Copper Kettle
(Brew Pub) Nestled in a side street near Parker Road and Valentia Street, the Copper Kettle is a small brew bar specializing in high quality, familiar craft brews. Their Czech Pilsner — a brewer’s staple — strikes a balance between its roasted malt flavor and light floral finish. Their English Old Style Ale, a familiar nut-brown variety, punches well above its weight class with piquant malt permeating both its aroma and taste. The atmosphere is cozy without being cramped. Their 40-oz. “Hydro Growler,” which looks like a oversized water bottle, belongs on any Colorado craft brew collector’s shelf. Liquor: Beer. Reservations: Not available. Hours: Open Daily. 1338 S. Valentia St. Denver. 80247. 720-443-2522. copperkettledenver.com $
Downslope Distilling
(Tasting room) Downslope has developed a strong reputation in the region for its artisan sips, including Double Diamond Whiskey, Wine Barrel-aged Rum and Cane Vodka. Downslope also offers distilling classes. Liquor: Spirits tasting, sales. Reservations: Required. Hours: Noon-4 p.m. Fri.-Sun. 6770 S. Dawson Circle, Suite 400, Centennial. 303-693-4300; downslopedistilling.com $$$
Junz Restaurant
(Japanese) On chef Jun Makino’s menu, classic Japanese fare meets classic French technique with an emphasis on seafood. So you’ll find foie gras with consommé-butter sauce as well as broiled yellowtail collar with sweet-and-sour ponzu, octopus in pepper cilantro vinaigrette, and excellent pan-fried gyoza dumplings. Favorite entrees include swordfish with lemon cream fettuccini and smoked beef ribeye teriyaki. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Required. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 11211 S. Dransfeldt Rd., Parker. 720-851-1005; junzrestaurant.com $$$
La Sandia Cantina
(Mexican) For this restaurant, celebrity chef Richard Sandoval (of Denver’s Zengo and Tamayo) went for comfortable, casual and affordable. The bar stocks one of the best tequila selections in the state — which goes well with the addictive achiote chipotle chicken wings and guacamole made tableside. Menu stars worth investigating include pan-roasted chicken breast mole poblano, tacos Baja filled with grilled tilapia, chipotle aioli and slaw. The top notch desserts include flan, churros with chocolate dip, and tres leches cake. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Recommended. Hours: Lunch, dinner, late night daily. 8340 Northfield Blvd., Denver. 303-373-9100; richardsandoval.com/lasandiacantina $$$
Lo Hi Steak Bar
(Steak) Chef Sean Kelly, the guy who made Barolo Grill one of the hottest spots in Denver way back when, brings his intuition for “that’s what I’m talkin’ about” to Denver’s rocket-hot Highlands. Not the Faux Hi’s that half of Denver claims to be part of, but the gritty-groovy historic Highlands above Downtown at West 32nd and Pecos, where the Scots set up camp eons ago. Every day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. you can step away from the rat race and revel in Lemon Ricotta Pancakes made luscious with an island of sweet ricotta. Running for the keys to the car? See you there. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Available. Hours: Lunch and dinner daily. 3200 Tejon Street, Denver. 303-927-6334; lohisteakbar.com $$$
Lowry Beer Garden
(American) Nestled next to the Wings Over the Rockies Museum, the Lowry Beer Garden is more than just hops and barley. The ever-changing menu gives you typical beer fare like brats and pretzels but it doesn’t stop there. Their most popular “Bomb Burger” is layered with sweet caramelized onions, buttery sautéed mushrooms, peppered bacon and pungent blue cheese. If your gut is telling you no, then try the lighter “Baja tacos,” a curiously wrapped pita stuffed with blackened shrimp topped with a spicy slaw composed of onions, tomatoes, cabbage, cilantro, cucumber and jalapeno drizzled in a chipolte mayo sauce. Priding themselves on offering local brews on tap, the beer garden keeps it fresh by constantly swapping out Colorado home-craft brews. Walk-up menu ordering keeps the place casual, along with the Oktoberfest-style bench seating. Liquor: Beer, wine. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner, late night daily. 7577 E. Academy Blvd., Denver. 303-366-0114; www.lowrybeergarden.com $
LuBo’s NY Pizza
(Pizza/Italian) This eatery offers a cross between an East Coast pizzeria and an Italian-American deli. Top of the menu is traditional New York-style thin crust pizza, followed by Sicilian-style thick crust pies. The rest of the menu ranges from starters (garlic knots and mac-n-cheese wedges), sandwiches (sausage heroes), pasta dishes (baked rigatoni) and meaty entrees (chicken Parmesan). Special attractions include White Pizza layered with ricotta, Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses and garlic oil. For big appetites, the Meat Combo calzone is stuffed with pepperoni, sausage, ham, Canadian bacon and meatballs. Liquor: Beer, wine. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 15352 E. Ida Drive, Centennial. 303-693-9196; lubosnypizza.com $$
Mali Thai Cuisine
(Thai) Favorites at this recently opened eatery range from Thai green curry to spicy chicken kra pao and pineapple fried rice wokked with bell pepper, raisins, onion, egg and cashews. The Thai-born owners use a gentle hand when adding Thai chilies but if you want your chicken pad Thai super-fiery, they will accommodate the request. Top menu choice: Duck in red curry with potato, onions and peanuts. Liquor: None. Reservations: Not Needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 4955 S. Ulster St., Greenwood Village. 303-773-6254; malithaidenver.com $$
Max Gill And Grill
(American) It may seem like a contradiction that a raw bar serves prime rib, but that would be shoehorning Max Gill and Grill into a category. The raw bar/seafood/everything else restaurant in Denver’s Wash Park neighborhood is a jack of all trades and a tasty master of a few. We recommend the seafood, which is always fresh, and a crisp white for a delightful dinner. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations available. Hours: Dinner daily, weekend brunch. 1052 S. Gaylord St. 303-722-7456; maxgillandgrill.com. $$
P17 bistro
(French/American) Uptown’s newest bistro returns to some French classics such as duck confit, steak frites and Nicoise salads, but it’s the pork belly everywhere that has us paying attention. Pictured here is the fettucini carbonara using pork belly, pecorino and a fried egg yolk. Want more? There’s a ramen soup with pork belly and apple glazed pork belly both to start. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 1600 E. 17th Ave., Denver. 303-399-0988; p17denver.com $$$
Pat’s Philly Cheesesteaks
(Sandwiches) Could be the name. It’s hard to argue grilled subs with a guy named Pat, just like it’s hard to argue arm wrestling with a guy named Tank or news with a guy named Scoop. It could also be the sandwiches. Pat’s has been serving the metro area for decades now with soft bread wrapping seared steak glued together with American cheese. The onions and peppers are hot off the griddle here, just like they should be, and the extras are kept at a minimum. Cherry and banana peppers are a plus, but not necessary. The steak is thinly sliced and seasoned well, add hot relish if you like or keep it plain. We like the ‘shroom cheese steak — and a nap after. Liquor: Beer. Reservations: Not needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. Multiple locations. patscheesesteaks.com $
The Perfect Landing
(Seafood) Situated in the middle of Centennial Airport, this quirky restaurant is a high flyer. What starts off as a busy breakfast diner with specialty omelets such as the Coastal Crab Omelet — soft blue crab folded into a fluffy egg blanket — turns into a fine-dining experience at night, complete with piano serenade and a serious Northeastern seafood selection with items such as their Newport Seafood Pie: a superfecta of shrimp, cod, lobster and scallops swimming in butter cognac cream, topped with a flaky pastry crust. Liquor: Full Bar. Reservations: Available. Hours: Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 7625 S. Peoria St., Englewood 303-649-4478. theperfectlanding.com $$$
Rialto Cafe
(Mexican) The middle of downtown Denver’s busy 16th Street isn’t exactly where you go to find exciting food. The busy shopping district is a tourist trap, and the food mostly follows the maxim that safer is better. Lots of chains, lots of restaurants past their prime, looking to cash in on popular flavors without going wild. Rialto Cafe isn’t exactly what you’d expect. The busy cafe, near 16th and Curtis, doesn’t mind taking chances. Their brunch menu, while peppered with staples such as huevos and skillets, spins it just a little. Instead of a runny mess, their huevos is stacked up high with a fresh flour tortilla, grilled corn and cojita cheese. Same goes for the farmhouse: Crispy potatoes, savory roasted chicken and perfect eggs with a hint of hollandaise. Of course, bottomless mimosas are a good idea too. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Recommended. Hours: Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. 934 16th St. Denver. 303-893-2233. $$
Steakhouse 10
(Steakhouse) What do you get when you combine the best of Greek cuisine with aged steaks and cool side dishes? That could only be the family-run Steakhouse 10, where flaming cheese and ouzo meets sizzled sirloin and baked potatoes. Liquor: Full Bar. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Lunch Mon.-Fri., dinner daily. 3517 S. Elati St., Englewood. 303-789-0911. $$$$
Tables
(American) Tables keeps their selection new by changing the menu seasonally. Currently one of the starters, tuna tartare is a must-try with fresh, light tuna mixed with ripe avocados, a hint of scallions and crispy wontons. Dig into the main courses to understand the thought and love put into the food here. The Colorado Lamb Loin is flavorful, moist and tender. Served with a creamy herb polenta and a sauté’ made of fennel-anchovy and light spring pea rounds out this upscale meal. There is even a s’more dessert that takes the campfire basic to the next level with the simplistic yet imaginative transformation of the crunchy graham cracker, gooey marshmallows and thick chocolate sauce. Liquor: Full Bar. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Tues-Sat dinner. 2267 Kearney St., Denver. 303-388-0299; tablesonkearney.com $$$
The Tavern Lowry
(American/Tavern) The broad, brew-friendly menu includes obligatory fried items like beer-battered pickle chips, comforters including burgers, a barbecue chicken calzone and mac-n-cheese balanced by chicken lettuce wraps and Mediterranean steak salad with hummus and flatbread. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Not Needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner, late night daily. 7401 E. 1st Ave. (Lowry Town Center), Denver. 303-366-0007; tavernhg.com/lowry $$
True Food Kitchen
(International/Healthy) Who said good-tasting food can’t be good for you? That’s the inspiration behind this Cherry Creek North cafe where the menu is based on Dr. Andrew Weil’s anti-inflammatory diet. The global cuisine includes vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options. The large menu ranges from Tuscan kale salad and edamame dumplings to bison burgers, red chile shrimp, steak tacos, butternut squash and smoked mozzarella pizza, and seafood caldo. The kids’ menu includes an organic cheese pizza that can be washed down with a Kale-Aid — juiced kale, apple, cucumber, celery, lemon and ginger. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations available. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily, weekend brunch. 2800 E. 2nd Ave, Denver. 720-509-7661; foxrc.com/restaurants/true-food-kitchen $$$$
Vines Wine Bar & Bistro
(Contemporary American) With more than 300 bottles on its wine list and 50 poured by the glass, Vines is the perfect place to sharpen your palate. The menu features a good selection of red- and white-friendly tapas including pork “wings,” mushroom ravioli, cheese fondue, crab cakes, along with bigger dishes such as grilled salmon and filet mignon served with gnocchi, grilled artichokes or house-made creamed corn. Liquor: Full bar. Reservations: Available. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 19501 E. Main St., Parker. 303-736-8463; vineswinebar.com $$$
Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro
(Mediterranean) The Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offers fresh seafood and unique meat dishes in a contemporary, bright atmosphere in the DTC. Start with the grilled salmon salad with crunchy walnuts, crispy potatoes, juicy bacon, soft feta and Gorgonzola cheeses topped with light, sweet cranberry vinaigrette. The Beef Carpaccio is thinly sliced beef, layered carefully atop a crostini, finished with goat cheese, white truffle oil and fresh baby arugula. Try something different with the pork porterhouse, layered above creamy polenta, fresh artichoke, thyme and drizzled in balsamic glazed cipollini. Liquor: Full Bar. Reservations: Suggested. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. Sunday brunch. 8310 E. Belleview Ave., Greenwood Village. 303-741-1110; yayasdenver.com $$
Thai Garden Asian Fusion
(Thai/Asian) Start with chicken satay or grilled beef salad. Warm your palate with seafood favorites from sesame scallops to Vietnamese garlic butter shrimp. But don’t miss Thai Garden’s impressive roster of noodle dishes including shrimp pad Thai, chicken drunken noodles, Hong Kong noodles, veggie lo mein and tofu snow white noodles. When mango’s in season, finish up with ripe mango and sweet sticky rice. Liquor: Beer, wine. Reservations: Not Needed. Hours: Lunch, dinner daily. 16911 E. Quincy Ave., Aurora. 303-400-1173; thaigardenasianfusion.com $$
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