PRICE:
Frommer's Exceptional

Chef-owner Jennifer Jasinski (formerly of Panzano at the Hotel Monaco) has emerged as Denver's most creatively inspired restaurateur since opening Rioja in 2004. In 2 short years, the slick Larimer Square eatery has emerged as a national standout, a critical darling, and our pick for dinner in downtown Denver. With a copper-topped bar and an atmosphere that's formal without being stuffy, Rioja is the perfect vehicle for Jasinski's menu of contrasting flavors and textures. Offerings range from curried cauliflower soup served with fresh apple salad to expertly grilled leg of Colorado lamb on a bed of goat-cheese polenta. Jasinski keeps the menu fresh, but you'll always get a selection of her delectable handmade pastas for dinner -- the artichoke tortellini is our pick -- and truly transcendent beignets for dessert.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's Denver, Boulder & Colorado Springs, 10th Edition, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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