Friday, February 27, 2009

How to Home Brew Beer

How to Home Brew Beer

Top 10 Breakfast/Brunch - Denver Restaurants

Breakfast King

Address: 1100 S Santa Fe Dr, Denver, CO 80223

It's open all day, every day. And it serves breakfast morning, noon, and night, not to mention at 3am to ward off bar-hopping munchies. The lights are bright, the coffee is bottomless, and in true diner fashion, all the food is on the greasy side, but if you're eating at 3am, the last thing you're worried about is cholesterol, right? Although the...


Bump & Grind

Address: 439 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80202

Funky, upbeat Bump & Grind provides a welcome change from the usual coffee shop ambience. Accented with eclectic local artwork, the interior is relaxed and bright, and the staff (dressed in drag) is incredibly friendly and fun. The coffee is awesome, especially when accompanied by a fabulous gourmet baked good, such as a coconut raspberry bar,...


Burnsley Restaurant and Lounge

Address: 1000 Grant Blvd, Burnsley Hotel, Denver, CO 80911

Housed in a charming, downtown hotel, Burnsley Restaurant offers an elegant, upscale setting for an early morning meal. During the week, the restaurant offers an impressive breakfast buffet that's quite popular with hotel guests and visitors. The unique Continental cuisine, inspired by the chef's training, bears a number of European influences. If...

Delectable Egg

Address: 1642 Market St, Denver, CO 80202

The specialty here is eggs, believe it or not, and they really know how to cook 'em. An amazing variety of cheesy omelettes, sizzling skillets, and fluffy scrambles populates the menu, along with waffles, French toast, pancakes and smoothies. Although the full roster of breakfast meats is also on offer, it's still possible to eat a healthy meal...

Dixons Downtown Grill

Address: 1610 16th St, 16th St Mall at Wazee, Denver, CO 80202

Set in a historic building and designed with Mission-style elements, Dixons regularly wins "Best of Denver" awards for breakfast, margaritas, and Bloody Marys. Highlights of the morning menu include Southwestern-style concoctions like eggs Mazatlan (with guacamole and green chiles in a tortilla) and the awesome Bandito Special (eggs, cheese,...

Eggshell Cafe

Address: 1520 Blake St, Denver, CO 80202

This homestyle café means business with its breakfasts, which include fluffy pancakes, savory omelets, and signature dishes like eggs Mazatlan and huevos rancheros. Any way you crack it, you're sure to be pleased! Bear in mind that Eggshell is a bustling sort of place, so don't expect to sit down with your paper and be overly leisurely.

Ellyngton's

Address: 321 17th St, Brown Palace Hotel, Denver, CO 80202

Although its regular breakfast fare is delicious, Ellyngton's gets many accolades for its sumptuous Sunday brunch. The acclaim is well-deserved, as the champagne buffet ably indicates. A veteran waitstaff and live jazz work their magic, and the food has an allure all its own. Fresh fruit, shrimp, salmon, cheeses, and breads burden the buffet table...

Gunther Toody's Diner

Address: 4500 E Alameda Ave, Glendale, CO 80246

Gunther Toody's serves up mornings diner-style. Enjoy the fun '50's era decor, complete with black-and-white checked floor, glass-topped counters, and resident Fonzie-style motorcycle. Heaping portions of classic favorites like buttermilk pancakes, chicken fried steak, and tasty omelets arrive piping hot, and service is always with a smile. As you...

Hot Cakes Diner

Address: 1400 E 18th Ave, Denver, CO 80218

Roomy and pleasant, Hot Cakes serves up traditional breakfast fare at prices that will keep you smiling all day. For something zesty, try eggs scrambled Greek-style – with tangy sausage and feta cheese. The place also makes a great early morning meeting spot for large groups and serves an excellent weekend brunch as well.

Moe's Broadway Bagel

Address: 550 Grant St, Denver, CO 80203

Moe's Bagel keeps breakfast simple but interesting – you'll find variety in both type of bread and in luscious spread. Try a plain bagel topped with lox spread or goat cheese, or opt for a poppy-seed bagel skimmed with honey. From whole wheat to chocolate chip, you're sure to find an offering to fit your taste buds and lifestyle. The bright...

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Top 10 Value Wines Under $10

1. Woop Woop Shiraz 2007 (Australia) $9
Woop Woop Australia Wines
The Woop Woop Shiraz is not just a fun name, but actually a pretty fun wine! It offers good fruit, great value and has the flexibility and price of an everyday red wine. You'll notice good ruby red color, hints of vanilla on the nose and loads of blackberry on the palate with a decent finish. Give this Shiraz a go with roasted or grilled red meat or a bowl of chili.

2. Blackstone Merlot 2007 (CA) $9

Blackstone
The 2007 Blackstone Merlot is an easy-going red wine find, with a very food-friendly nature. This Merlot has a flavor profile that is brimming over with the ripe fruit flavors of raspberry and blackberry and bits of vanilla. The Blackstone Merlot is exceptionally easy to find, well-priced and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Pairs well with pork tenderloin and a variety of pizzas with toppings ranging from peppers to pepperoni.
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3. Ecco Domani Pinot Grigio 2007 (Italy) $9

Ecco Domani
The Ecco Domani Pinot Grigio has a light/clear yellow color in the glass and pineapple on the nose. On the palate you'll find pineapple making its mark again along with pear and apple. This particlular Pinot Grigio also has a small amount of Chardonnay grapes blended in as well. Try pairing this everyday white wine with a seafood pasta dish, fresh fish, or pasta primavera.

4. Smoking Loon Syrah 2007(CA) $10

Don & Sons
The 2007 Smoking Loon Syrah is a dynamite deal for just $10 a pop. The nose gives you hints of chocolate dipped strawberries and the palate reveals dark cherry, cranberry and a bit of blueberry. On the palate evolution you'll notice some earthy undertones and a bit of pepper. This Syrah has an intensity that can stand up to a variety of flavorful and well-seasoned red meat dishes.

5. Red Truck Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2007 (CA) $10

Red Truck Winery
The 2007 Red Truck Sauvignon Blanc is made with organic grapes and makes for a very citrus-focused wine. You'll find orange, lemon peel and a bit of grapefruit both on the nose and the palate, with fresh acidity. This wine would be good with baked or grilled fish or a creamy dill sauce on chicken.

6. Freixenet Sparkling Cordon Negro Brut (Spain) $10

Image courtesy of Pricegrabber
This sparkling wine is a blend of three of Spain's white grapes: Macabeo, Xarel-lo and Parellada - which all combine to make a noticeably balanced wine with crisp flavors and a smooth finish. Consider this brut for a variety of food options, from the fancy and formal to the informal summer gathering - it offers a ton of pairing versatility at a price that offers considerable value.

7. Rutherford Ranch Chardonnay 2007 (CA) $10

Rutherford Ranch
The 2007 Rutherford Ranch Chardonnay is filled to the brim with ripe fruit - peaches, pineapple, apple and a bit of lemon peel. These bright fruit flavors give this white wine find a beautiful foundation for being a terrific food wine. The Rutherford Ranch Chardonnay is a fairly full-bodied Chardand will pair well with crab cakes, lemon tarragon chicken and creamy pastas.

8. Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Gewurztraminer 2007 (WA) $9

Ch. Ste. Michelle
The 2007 Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Gewurztraminer brings a spicy beat to white wine sipping. It is a true crowd pleaser, perfect for backyard shin digs with its refreshing, crisp flavor profile. This medium-bodied Gewurztraminer delivers pears packed in pumpkin spice on the palate. Perfect for Asian fare and even some Tex Mex as it can handle spice and some cilantro seasoning well. At $9 bucks a pop this is a fantastic wine to have on hand for virtually any occasion.
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9. Pacific Rim Riesling 2007 (WA) $9

Pacific Rim
For all of you "sweet" Riesling lovers out there, this is your wine! Pacific Rim is known for making fantastic New World Riesling wines (both dry and sweet) at very reasonable price points. Yummy with Thai or spicy Asian cuisine that could use the sweet of this Riesling to contrast the heat of the dish.

10. Ironstone Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 (CA) $9

Ironstone Vineyards
This Ironstone Cabernet Sauvignon is a juicy, medium-bodied Cab at a fantastic price. It offers loads of fruit and soft tannins. It is a fairly easy-going Cabernet Sauvignon that will welcome New World red wine drinkers into its fold quickly. Lots of bang for the buck and would pair especially well with the richer dark meat of turkey and trimmings, a London broil or even a hamburger.

How to Taste Wine

Learn wine tasting from columnist and www.TasteOfWineTV.com host Frank Mangio.


Great Northern Tavern - Denver Restaurant and Bar

The Great Northern, located in the Denver Tech Center, echos the journey of the Great Northern Railroad across the upper United States. Their menu reflects the traditional cuisine of these regions through interpretations of beloved trans-continental meals. An excellent wine list not only accompanies, but also accentuates, their menu.


Sushi Train Japanese Restaurant Denver

The Best taste of Sushi Rolls and Fresh Sashimi in Denver Colorado


Casa Bonita Denver Colorado Mexican Restaurant

A trip to Casa Bonita, a Denver, Colorado Mexican restaurant that's almost like a Disney World theme park experience.


Top 10 Italiian Restuarants In Denver

Barolo Grill

Address: 3030 E 6th Ave, Denver, CO 80206

Denverites get excited at mere mention of this upscale Eastside restaurant, a local favorite that draws area celebs and personalities. A la carte selections include gnocchi, mushroom ragu, and risotto, and a nightly tasting menu is also available, along with seafood dishes and pastas. The intimate interior is highlighted by large windows and a...

Cafe Jordano

Address: 11068 W Jewell Ave, Lakewood, CO 80232

This small Lakewood trattoria is considered by many to be a hidden treasure, secreted away as it is in a nondescript strip mall. Inside, the cozy, family-style atmosphere beckons you to linger over savory pastas and enjoy a glass from the reasonable wine list. Start off with crusty mozzarella bread, and then order chicken breast topped with white...

Gabriel's

Address: 5450 N Hwy 67, Sedalia, CO 80135-8014

Looking for a unique place for a special occasion? Gabriel's is a perfect fit. Located in a restored Victorian house, this restaurant offers exceptional northern Italian cuisine in an elegant, upscale atmosphere. A cozy fireplace illuminates the intimate dining room and sets the stage for perfect dinners. Savory pastas and a notable wine list...

Laca d'Italia

Address: 711 Grant St, Denver, CO 80203

Traditionally-prepared, rustic Italian fare is served with care amid a distinctly modernist aesthetic that boasts bright blocks of wall color. Even so, the focus is unquestionably on the melt-in-your-mouth cuisine. If you don't opt for the tasting menu, try fried mozzarella with lemon aioli as a starter, followed by either a first course of pasta...


Pagliacci's

Address: 1440 W 33rd Ave, Denver, CO 80211-3504

Family-run Pagliacci's boasts accommodating servers, a 1940s-era interior, and a casual environment that's ideal for dinner visits. Authentic Italian fare swiftly makes regulars out of first-timers, and the house specialty – minestrone soup – is a restaurant mainstay. Eggplant parmigiana, spaghetti, ravioli, lasagna, and other Italian standbys are...


Panzona

Address: 909 17th St, Denver, CO 80202

Depending on your mood when you reach Panzano, you can grab a table, choose a booth, or sit at the bar. No matter where you perch, you're sure to enjoy great northern Italian dishes prepared in an open kitchen. Homemade ravioli, spaghetti, and lasagna are traditional favorites, crafted with culinary precision. A nice wine list offers American and...


Parisi

Address: 4401 Tennyson St, Denver, CO

Although it may be part deli and part restaurant, Parisi is all good! Cold cases hold take-out Italian fare (like pastas, sauces, meats, and oils) and help with great entertaining or stay-at-home meals. In-house, the kitchen offers heaping plates of steaming pastas, crisp-crust pizzas, and daily specials featuring chicken, veal, and the like. More...

Piatti Ristorant & Bar

Address: 190 St. Paul St, Denver, CO 80206

User rating: User Rating and Review ( Rate It! ) | Add to a Suitcase

Although a chain, Piatti maintains an independently-operated kitchen in each location, promising menus that take advantage of an individual region's specialties and seasonal bounty. In Denver, that means dishes featuring farm-fresh meats and cheeses, along with plenty of crisp vegetables. Try Mountain Meadow lamb chops with dried cherries, goat...


Undici Ristorante

Address: 1200 E Hampden Ave, Englewood, CO 80113

This gorgeous space, filled with flowing silk drapery and fresh flowers, brings flavorful Italian cuisine to south Denver. If you have to wait for a table, start with a cocktail or appetizers at the sleek granite bar, a perfect venue for mixing and mingling. Main dishes like lobster pâté-filled ravioli, gnocchi in veal sauce with porcini...


Washing Park Grill

Address: 1096 S Gaylord St, Denver, CO 80209

A trendy hangout, Washington Park Grille draws a handsome young crowd looking to mingle and have a good time. The menu's just as appealing, thanks to consistent offerings of pastas, steaks, and seafood. The bar is a choice meet-and-greet spot that features a variety of cocktails and both on-tap and bottled beers. On weekends, come for Sunday...


Best Sports Taverns In Denver

Cherry Cricket

Located on E. Second Avenue, the Cherry Cricket is a home away from home for many regular patrons who enjoy the quaint, rustic décor and the large selection of domestic and imported beer. If you're looking for quality sports bars in Denver, this is the place to go for a family atmosphere and the best burgers in Colorado. You'll also find that, unlike many sports bars, the Cherry Cricket serves three reasonably priced wines.

Blake Street Tavern

Voted "Denver's Best Bar Food" by Citysearch, the Blake Street Tavern offers 20 high-definition television sets, a 100-inch big screen and more than 60 options for beer and wine. This Denver sports bar also provides its patrons with numerous options for killing time, including shuffleboard, pool and darts, or you can grab a table and watch the activity unwind. Every Wednesday, Blake's holds a trivia night, and Sundays are dedicated to Texas Hold 'Em.

Sports Column

Situated less than a block from Coors Stadium, the Sports Column is one of the most popular sports bars in Denver, particularly on game nights. They offer live music as well as DJs, provide free shuttle service to Mile High and occasionally host autograph signings with celebrities and famous players. They serve their full menu up until 1 a.m. every day of the week, and you won't find better mozzarella sticks in all of Denver.

Old Chicago

From the outside, Old Chicago looks more like a '50s diner than anything else, but the interior betrays its status as one of the best sports bars in Denver. They offer 110 different brews, Chicago-style deep-dish pizza with crust that's made from scratch daily, a full menu of Italian favorites and plenty of TVs for your viewing pleasure. There are three Old Chicago locations in Denver: Tamarac Square, Market Street and Colorado Blvd.

Best Wine Shops In Denver

Applejack Wine & Spirits
3320 Youngfield St.
Wheat Ridge, CO
303-233-3331, 800-879 5225 www.applejack.com


Mondo Vino

3601 W. 32nd Ave.
Denver, CO
303-458-3858
www.mondovino.net


Davidsons Liquors
5555 Boatworks Dr.
Highlands Ranch, CO
303-224-0444

www.davidsonsliquors.com

Heritage Wine and Liquors
7475 E. Arapahoe Rd.
Centennial, CO 80112
303-770-8212
www.spiritsusa.com

The Vineyard Wine Shop
261 Fillmore St.
Denver, CO
303-355-8324
www.vineyardwineshop.com

Denver Best Value Restaurants

Bang

Address: 3472 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211

Bang! packs a savory punch with its Southern-style meals. Protocol is to order at the counter and fetch your own silverware and condiments (thank goodness the prices make this self-service worthwhile!). Expect to choose from a selection of homegrown favorites like roast chicken, meatloaf and pasta. Very popular, especially on weekend evenings....


Bayou Bob's

Bayou Bob's Cajun and Southern specialties will make you feel as if you've got Louisiana roots yourself! Fried catfish, gumbo, crawfish and etouffee are specialties, and there's fried alligator if you're in the mood for something exotic. Other possibilities include red beans and rice, jambalaya, po' boy sandwiches, chicken-fried chicken, oysters...


Chez Jose

Address: 3027 E 2nd Ave, Denver, CO 80206

A long-time standby, this Mexican restaurant really packs a punch with its tangy salsa, guacamole, and savory pork, chicken and beef tucked into soft tortillas. Self-service is the name of the game, and folks gather to enjoy the tasty fare, much of which features grilled ingredients. Casual atmosphere coupled with low prices makes Chez Jose a...

Las Delicias

Address: 439 E 19th Ave, Denver, CO 80203

You'll be glad you dropped in to Las Delicias as you order up Mexican fare such as burritos, tacos, tamales, and enchiladas. Breakfast burritos are a great choice in the mornings, but later in the day the combination plates are an especially good deal. Authentic flavor shines through in dishes like Chuletas de Puerco, Carne Adobada, or Carnitas...

Le Central

Address: 112 E 8th Ave, Denver, CO 80203

Le Central draws rave reviews from local francophiles. You'll concur after setting foot in a comfortable dining room that transports guests to the French countryside. Flower-adorned tables dot the intimate dining room, and the menu includes salads as well as pork, chicken, beef, and seafood entrees. Great wine list with reasonable prices. Dine...


New Orient

Address: 10203 E Iliff Ave, Iliff Pointe Shopping Center, Aurora, CO 80231

When folks in southeast Denver crave homemade Vietnamese cooking, they opt for this gem, where both food and service earn high marks. Fresh seafood is a specialty, and the menu is populated by the likes of shrimp fritters, Vietnamese paella, and a two-fish plate (mahi-mahi and swordfish) flavored with lemongrass and sun-dried tomato sauce. A word...


Paramount Cafe

Address: 519 16th St, Denver, CO 80202

Housed in the restored Paramount Theatre, this cafe provides a casual, laid-back environment for dining out with the gang. During happy hour, all drafts are half-price. For eats, the menu offers traditional fare – burgers, sandwiches, salads, and a variety of Tex-Mex dishes. Don't call it quits until you've had a piece of margarita pie. Outdoor...


T-WA Inn

Address: 555 S Federal Blvd, Denver, CO 80219

User rating: User Rating and Review ( Rate It! ) | Add to a Suitcase

For more than two decades, this eatery has been the place in Denver for Vietnamese food. While the rather mundane decor, which looks much as it did in the '70s, most assuredly won't knock your socks off, T-WA comes highly recommended by "The Rocky Mountain News." House specialties include delish Dungeness crab, orange chicken, and traditional...


Tom's Home Cookin

Address: 800 E 26th Ave, Denver, CO 80205

True down-home Southern cooking can be difficult to find west of the Mississippi, so Tom's is a boon to Mile High-ers looking for stick-to-your-ribs eats. The owner, a transplanted Carolinian, knows exactly how to prepare breaded catfish, crispy fried chicken, perfectly baked macaroni and cheese, and sweet peach cobbler to keep patrons coming back...


Wazee Supper Club

Address: 1600 15th St, Denver, CO 80202

Martinis, great pizza, and a sassy waitstaff – sounds like the makings of a fantastic meal! In addition to tasty pizzas, the menu also boasts sandwiches, sides, and of course, desserts. An ideal spot for dinner or after-hours drinks.


Tuesday, February 24, 2009

The Start of Denver Food Guy Blog!

Please enter your experiences with restuarants, bars, wine etc.....