DEAR CHARLIE: In a few weeks, we will be celebrating our daughter's baptism, and will be entertaining both mine and my wife's family while they are in town. After the event, we will be looking for somewhere for all of us adults (10-12 of us) to have dinner, but need to steer clear of Downtown since there is a huge convention the weekend of our celebration. Can you offer some help?
Yes! We know a few places in the surrounding areas that will dish up some delicious fare, offer you a comfortable amount of room for your party and promise to deliver a good experience:
Table 6: Open seven days a week, offers a refuge in a comfy, friendly environment. Laid back, but food-serious. This place will be roomy enough to seat your entire party and the staff will make sure you feel taken care of after the end of what sounds like a busy day for you! http://www.table6denver.com
Cafe Star: Owned by family restaurant Trattoria Stella, this Colfax location did a great job for my birthday this year. We showed up with 12 people and ended up paying in just $30/person with drinks. around $30/person with drinks, and they'll def take good care of you. Food is awesome - and they have home-made desserts that are absolutely to die for. http://www.cafestardenver.com
Shells and Sauce: Situated in Congress Park, this is one of Denver's many delicious Italian bistros that is cozy and casual - but delivers a bang of flavor in each of their dishes. One big room with big, big atmosphere. Try the butternut squash-stuffed ravioli and be sure you get the tirimisu for dessert. http://shellsandsauce.net/
Black Pearl: Similar to Potager in Capitol Hill, Black Pearl uses all-fresh, local ingredients to create contemporary American dishes. Very "loft-like" and in a favorite neighborhood on Old South Pearl.
If you're up for driving up to Lower Highland - two great places i've visited in the last month that are definitely worth exploring:
Root Down: This place reminds me of Steubens, yet more laid-back. RD is an old car garage - totally converted/ 100% recycled material (but really classy) - amazing view of downtown Denver. REALLY good food (i had a beef tenderloin and shared my friend's pork loin. amazing). I think food runs $25 and under and they could definitely do 10 people with a reservation. http://www.rooddowndenver.com/
Lola's: This is right around the corner from Forrest Room 5- so if you head up 15th street and hang a right on Boulder, it's on the next block's corner. Beautiful, spanish interior and a crystal clear view of downtown. Mexican food with an interesting twist. I've only been there for breakfast, but to give an idea - french toast with pumpkin cream cheese, hazelnuts and syrup. Wasn't too spendy either -- I'd guess $20-40/person depending on libations. http://www.loladenver.com
