Exploring Denver's Diverse Culinary Scene
A Guide to the Mile High City's Best Restaurants
Denver, once a wild frontier town, has today transformed into a vibrant canvas where culinary artists create their edible masterpieces. The Mile-High City is no longer just a pit stop for skiers en route to the Rockies; it's a food lover's paradise, a gastronomic destination in its own right. Today, we take a flavor-infused journey through the city's innovative food landscape, showcasing some of Denver's most innovative chefs garnering national recognition for their culinary creativity.
Our gastronomic journey begins with award-winning Chef Caroline Glover, founder of Annette in Aurora, Colorado. Established in 2016, Annette is named after Glover's fiery and erudite great aunt Netsie, a novelist and short story writer from small-town Texas. Though Netsie didn't teach Glover to cook, she imbued her with a strong sense of conviction that continues to guide Glover's restaurant journey. Glover's confidence and dedication culminated in her recognition as the James Beard Foundation's 2022 "Best Chef: Mountain."
Venturing into Denver, we encounter Chef Jose Avila at El Borrego Negro. Avila has carved out a reputation for his compelling interpretations of traditional dishes, introducing Denver to the nuanced flavors of his culinary heritage.
Our exploration leads us next to Tavernetta, where Chef Cody Cheetham showcases the authenticity of Italian cuisine. Drawing from his travels and close relationships with farmers and purveyors, Cheetham infuses his menu with the simplicity and quality that define regional Italian fare. Cheetham's deep understanding of Italian culture and cuisine earned him a 2022 James Beard nomination for Best Chef, Mountain.
Next up on the Denver dining scene is Work & Class, a culinary tribute to the working-class roots of its owners, Tony Maciag and Chef Dana Rodriguez. With Maciag hailing from Detroit and Rodriguez from a farm in Chihuahua, Mexico, Work & Class is a unique blend of American and Latin American cuisines. Their "good food, no fuss" ethos is a testament to their humble beginnings, resonating in every generously-poured drink and expertly crafted dish.
In Denver, the food tells stories - of people, of places, of passion. Each bite is a love letter to the city and its cultural diversity, a tribute to the chefs and their teams who pour their hearts into their creations. So, food lovers, pack your appetites and join us in Denver, where culinary dreams are not just made, but also devoured.
Bringing to light the intricacies of Denver's culinary scene, the "Chef AF Podcast" delves into the minds of some of the city's top chefs. As your host, I am excited to introduce two notable chefs who have made their marks on Denver's restaurant industry.
Our first episode features Justin Cucci, Chef and Owner of the Edible Beats Restaurant Group. Cucci, who was born into the industry through his family's renowned Waverly Inn in New York City, shares insights on his journey towards launching Root Down, his first Denver establishment, in an unconventional venue — a disused mid-century gas station. In Denver, Cucci has made a name for himself with his local, seasonal and vegetable-forward menus, which he's brought to life across six restaurants, including the popular Linger.
In another enlightening episode, we get a sweet perspective from Pastry Chef Saura Kline of Local Jones, a buzzing hotspot in HALCYON, a Cherry Creek hotel. Kline, who previously helmed the dessert sections for all Kevin Taylor restaurants, shares her early culinary memories, role models, and her journey to a successful career that includes winning the 2018 La Coupe d’Altamira Denver chocolate competition. With a soft spot for the traditional, Kline reminisces about her earliest kitchen memory, a delightful visit to her grandmother's kitchen, which has undeniably influenced her love for cooking.
Both these conversations provide an exclusive peek into the culinary world, narrated by the chefs themselves, whose passion and dedication are shaping Denver's exciting food landscape. Tune in to get inspired, and, perhaps, find your next dining destination in the Queen City.
Inside Denver's Farm-to-Table Movement
Sweet Success in the Denver Culinary Scene
The Chef AF Rating System has launched and is tracking the best food artisans worldwide based on consumer sentiment. Daniel Boulud, Brooke Williamson, and Lidia Bastianich are just a few of the chefs we’ve featured.