James Beard-nominated restaurant with a creative, vegetable-driven menu, located in The Source, a unique space featuring a tap room, a bakery, butcher shop and taqueria. Large, open kitchen, great wine and cocktail list and a very casual dining room. Open for dinner only. Acorn 3350 Brighton Blvd., Denver, 720-542-3721
Pizzeria Locale brings the tastes of Napoli to Denver. House-made, hand-stretched dough and exceptional ingredients pair with cutting edge cooking procedures to bring guests a contemporary take on Neapolitan Pizza in just minutes. Their margherita pizza is definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area. Pizzeria Locale 550 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203; (720) 508-8828
Located in the heart of downtown Denver, Lower48 Kitchen draws inspiration for its contemporary American food from the lower 48 states. Its daily changing menu of regional dishes feature artisan breads, house-made pastas, and heirloom meats and produce. Lower48 Kitchen 2020A Lawrence St., Denver, CO, 80205; (303) 942-0262
A neighborhood bistro located in the historic Sugar Building in downtown Denver, The Kitchen serves up farm-to-table American fare in a chic, eco-friendly space. The Kitchen 1530 16th Street Mall, Denver, CO 80202; (303) 623-3127
Root Down strives to serve their customers the best Colorado cuisine has to offer. Their special attention to guest’s dietary needs makes this casual, boisterous restaurant a favorite to many Denverites looking for a “farm-fresh” dining experience. Root Down 1600 W 33rd Ave., Denver, CO 80211; (303) 993-4200
A modern ramen shop in the heart of the Highlands. Inspired by Momofuku Noodle Bar in New York, Uncle brings well crafted, high-end ramen to the Denver area. Uncle 2215 W. 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211; (303) 433-3263
The vintage-feeling restaurant on Pearl Street specializes in comfort food. The chef’s southern background adds to the homey feeling. Devil’s Food is probably best known for their Eggs Benedict, which has won several awards in the Denver area.