Finding the Lost Cajun

 

 

 

 

I recently hosted a lovely pair of college friends for a mountain retreat weekend near Breckenridge. On our way toward the ski village we found the Lost Cajun restaurant located in Frisco. Everything about the place: the New Orleans Saints flag in the window, the wafting simmer of jumbalaya, along with the array of other Louisiana style menu items immediately said welcome to the bayou!

 

 

Sampler of the Lost Cajun sauces and gumbo.

 

After debating between the red beans and rice or the lobster bisque, several of us decided on the red beans and rice (along with the perfect side of hush puppies and remoulade sauce). It was quite filling and tasty!

 

The Lost Cajun definitely seemed a long way from the swamps of the south but I am glad the Lost Cajun has found its way into the Colorado Rockies! And into my mouth!

 

Check them out. They have several Colorado locations.

North County: Seafood meets Mexican (home of Denver's best fish tacos)

 

Denver, the land-locked city that it is, makes it an adventure to find fresh, yummy seafood.

 

But look no further.

 

The North County, according to their webpage offers "traditional ceviches, oysters, mussels, tortas, salads and of course, a collection of the best fish and street tacos around." I delightfully agree.

 

 

I tried both the salmon and swordfish tacos--"Baja style"

They did not disappoint.

 

 

The carne asada fries tasted as good as they look!

They have happy hour every day except for Sunday.

 

So, if you want to feel like you are slightly nearer to the ocean....and partake of some delicious seafood-meets-Mexican fare; check out North County.

 

Ophelia's Electric Soapbox

It's hard to classify Ophelia's Electric Soapbox, there's basically a little something for everyone.

Whether you are in the mood for a seamier-sided happy hour, live music, or eclectic dining experience; Ophelia's has it all--with some interesting local history as well. As my waiter described, "The owner went from death to sex."

 

What he meant was, the owner of Ophelia's also operates Denver's popular Linger restaurant.  Before it was a trendy dining room/rooftop bar, it was Olinger Mortuary but they literally took off the "O" and kept the Linger. (I guess you could say the "O" became Ophelias). Located at 1215 20th Street, this site was first a brothel and later an adult video store. Several of the art pieces are reminiscent of its sensual past.

Now, with an updated interior and dance floor on the lower level, Ophelia's makes for a nice cozy dining experience during the week. Then, on certain weekends, the space functions as a music hall. Recently they hosted a sold out 90s dance party.

 

Eclectic drink menu

If happy hour is your jam, the couch area next to the bar is super cute and great for people watching. Their happy hour specials are cost-effective, as well as, tastebud approved.

Tip: Parking is mostly by meter. 

 



Beef slider, jalapeno cornbread, fries

Lair O' The Bear

If you've lived in Denver for any length of time, chances are you have probably hiked in an area of open space called Lair O' The Bear. This recreational area is located just past the towns of Evergreen and Kittredge, about 45 minutes directly west of Denver.

This park offers a handful of hiking trails, as well as, multi-use trails. So, bring your mountain bike and enjoy the beauty of the foothills! There are several picnic areas and there is also a stream that flows the entire distance of the park. What I like about this area is that you have the option of either hiking along more of a flat terrain, or hiking along more inclined trails. It's nice to have the choice of either a leisurely stroll versus an intensive hike.

When you're done here, you can head into Evergreen and grab some refreshments and/or live music at a place called Little Bear Western Saloon and Restaurant. Little Bear seems to be the place where most of the locals hang out. The town of Evergreen has a huge lake to enjoy as well as some cute shops. So, come on--go explore!



*Originally posted: 9/11/07.
* Updated 7/29/16

Humboldt Burger VS Meadowlark Burger

I have been waiting to partake of the Meadowlark Burger so that I could compare it with my top pick, the Humboldt Burger.

 

The results are in:

#1 in Taste Satisfaction: The Humboldt Burger

 

#1 in Visual Appeal and Creativity: The Meadowlark Burger

 

 

 

Meadowlark Burger, visually stunning

The Humboldt Burger, tastes absolutely amazing!

Meadowlark Kitchen

 

A friend and I accidentally found ourselves in Hipsterville, also known as the Rino district of Denver. Due to Sunday afternoon baseball game traffic we were delightfully rerouted to the Meadowlark Kitchen. 

 

This place has been on my list of places to check out, especially to try the Meadowlark burger. And I will say it did not disappoint. For visual appeal I'd say it wins top place among Denver burger joints. Towering high with features such as poached egg, bacon, jalapeno sauce, and yummy cheese this burger tasted pretty darn great.

 In all honesty, it was the first time I have tried a burger with poached egg even though I've seen several places around town adding this feature. It was quite messy and eventually I ended up eating it with a fork.

 

The menu was small yet varied. My friend had the catfish (featured below).

 

 

The venue is fairly small in the front but has a large patio in the back.

It was pretty hoppin' when we were there.

If you find yourself in the Rino district, check out this cute artsy restaurant.

 





Sassafras: American Eatery

Sassafras: American Eatery

 

My favorite breakfast place in Denver is Sassafras American Eatery!

 My favorite location is the one located in a quaint, brick house at 2637 W. 26th Ave., near the highlands neighborhood. The ambiance, combined with the soulful, southern palate is completely satisfying.

Very few places west of the Mississippi can you expect to find shrimp-n-grits done right.

But this place nails it. And they have created a new twist on grits, in the form of grit sticks (kind of like French toast sticks but with grits--delightful).

 

This location feels like southern hospitality on a plate.

 

Make it happen. You wont regret it.

 

Eggs, sausage, grits, and biscuit

Shrimp and Grits





 

SWEET POTATO PIE: AND I SHUT MY MOUTH!!

 

MMMM.....MMMMM....MMMMM



Lucile's Creole Cafe

Freshly warmed beignets.

 



One of my favorite breakfast/brunch spots is Lucile's Creole Café.

 Mmmm..Mmmm...Mmmm...SO GOOD!!

 

Your meal usually starts out with a friendly waitress asking if you want to start with a round of freshly, warmed New Orleans styled beignets (hard to resist).

 

Growing up in the South, I value a scrumptious savory breakfast! I would say that Lucile's specializes in eggs benedict styles, shrimp and grits, and specialty French toast...among other amazing dishes!

 



An avocado and eggs benedict with shrimp and grits.

 

But my favorite signature dish is Lucille's sweet potato and crab bisque!! It is lick-the-bowl delicious!!

Sweet potato and crab bisque.


Mmmmm.....SO GOOD.

Check 'em out!!

Denver's Union Station: A Dining Destination

Photos: J. Foster, 2016.

 

    I finally made my way to the newly renovated Union Station at 17th and Wynkoop, in downtown Denver. It was a fabulous mix of travelers with luggage surrounded by locals with curious appetites. Besides operating as a central hub for Amtrak, as well as, local RTD lightrail and bus terminals this historic location is now a hot spot for local food and drink fare.   

 

   As I examined the architecture both inside and out, I was reminded of two things: 1) the importance of historic preservation and 2) the thrill of being on a journey. I felt a sense of romantic nostalgia for another time and place. But as I stood in the present moment, I realized how grateful I am to live in a city that is expanding its infrastructure to include more rail lines. Denver really is a cool place to be.  

 

The Terminal Bar was a popular place at happy hour.

 

I stood in the main lobby/terminal for several minutes staring at the large terminal windows before going off to explore the hallways, stores, and restaurants.

I found the kiosk counter where I could have bought an Amtrak ticket to the east or west coasts before arriving at the Next Door Community Pub, where I chose to drink and dine.



Fish Tacos

 


Bacon Burger with Mashers

 I tried their "special of the day" fish tacos along with the Next Door's version of a Moscow Mule--very tasty! My date enjoyed a bacon burger with mashers. It was a fun time exploring some place new, as well as, tasting some yummy food. Also, our waiter was from London and quite fun to talk with.               

 Union Station is now home to several other popular restaurants:

 



Snooze an A.M Eatery

Stoic and Genuine

Mercantile Dining and Provision

Milkbox Ice Creamery

Next Door Community Pub

The Terminal Bar

The Cooper Lounge

 

Union Station is also home to the prestigious Crawford Hotel. The Crawford Hotel also gives tours of Union Station. Tickets must be purchased in advance. For more information on tours click here.  

 

For information regarding train and public transit, click here.

 

So, come and explore some Colorado history while enjoying the nostalgic ambiance of Denver's Union Station! Heck, maybe catch a train while you're at it!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Denver's Best Burger of 2015--Humboldt: Farm Fish and Wine

I finally had the chance to experience Denver's Humboldt burger! Literally from the very first bite I knew this burger was THE ONE. The flavor of the beef combined with the smoky bacon vibe was the first noticeable taste to my palate. Soon after the initial taste the other flavors from their specialty sweet onion jam (I do not usually like onions but this jam is incredible) blended in as well. And my mouth was in heaven. On this particular evening the meat was cooked right at about medium (which is also not usually my preference but I told the server to bring it out however the chef recommended). Dang it, it was such a perfect burger! I have seriously never tasted a burger so flavorful and delicious.

They offer the Humboldt burger everyday, including during happy hour. If you go during happy hour it is $6 bucks cheaper than usual. But  even the non-happy hour price of $16 is worth it!! (update: they now serve the slider version for $4 bucks/each)

Speaking of Humboldt Happy Hour, they have one of the best happy hours in town for the quality of their menu. So, come try out the Humboldt burger or try out some fresh oysters!

But, seriously, come check this place out! Even former President Clinton and U2's Bono dined here recently!



HAPPY HOUR IS EVERYDAY!!
FROM 3PM TO 6PM!!


Location:

1700 Humboldt St.
Denver, CO 80218

Open everyday at 11am.

Denver Biscuit Company; So Good You'll Think They Stole Your Granny's Recipe!

 

The Denver Biscuit Company takes the Southern, backwoods breakfast biscuit and introduces it to the neon lights of the urban city! Mmmmm...mmm...mmm...you wont believe you're not in the south as the fresh, hearty biscuit flakes off into your mouth...only to make way for the juicy goodness that is to come; whether it be sausage, fried chicken or catfish!

I sampled the Dahlia; according to their menu it consists of: housemade sausage patty, apple butter, fried egg, and maple syrup (the only thing I would have added was a slice of cheddar cheese). It was almost as if I was sitting in my Granny's kitchen. It doesn't get any better than that folks.

Website:
http://www.denbisco.com/

Locations:

E. COLFAX
3237 E. Colfax
Denver, CO 80206

S. BROADWAY
141 S. Broadway
Denver, CO 80209

Best of Denver's Brunch Scene

Top Picks for Denver's Brunch Scene:


1) Sassafras American Eatery

Sassafras is a Southern Cajun delight! Nestled in a cozy brick house with a myriad of comfort food brunch ideas; your lips will smack and your taste buds will thank you. Oh, and did I mention they have grit sticks?! So yummy and paired with New Orleans style jumbo shrimp! Get ready for some decadent and quaint down home goodness!

2) Snooze; An AM Eatery

There's a reason this place is so popular; its got everything--ambiance, wide variety of menu choices, creative and scrumptious pancake flavors, and booze. 'Nuff said. Try 'em--you'll love Snooze...well, you'll love everything except the waiting list.

3) Jelly Cafe

The Jelly Cafe has an 80's and modern hipster vibe to it. For an artsy and unique brunch experience step inside Jelly Cafe and try their Salmon Eggs Benedict or their different array of doughnut bites! With a wholesome variety of egg scrambles, pancakes, french toast and benedicts--you are sure to find something to your liking!

4) Annie's Cafe and Bar

Annie's is a cozy cafe with a lot of neighborhood flavor. A wide ranging menu and cozy ambiance makes Annie's a comfy place to return to again and again. I personally love the lunch boxes from the 1980's that hang near the bar area. I've seen them a million times but every visit I recall them each again. So grab a cup of coffee and relax at this local favorite.

5) Racines Restaurant

Racine's is my "go to" place--for any meal--the ambiance is always cozy and satisfying and the food is always tasty. Whether it is breakfast or dinner--they have a menu guaranteed to please everyone. I like that it can be a casual or fancy affair; depending on what kind of experience you want to make it. It is a place that is like a home away from home for those who frequent this lovely local hot spot. And congratulations on being in business for 30 years this year!

6) Cake Crumbs Bakery

Some friends recently introduced me to Cake Crumbs. This little-known bakery sits back in the historic Park Hill neighborhood. They feature cake, cupcakes, fresh baked goods and warm breakfast items. This place is perfect for when you wake up on a Sunday morning and want to grab some coffee and breakfast and experience the freshness of a new day; and of being alive. Check 'em out.

St. Mary's Glacier

Hard to believe that barely an hour drive from Denver and you can hike up to a glacier. St. Mary's Glacier is one of the first attractions I visited when I first moved here to Colorado. It is so close town and just off of I-70 (well, just about twenty minutes from I-70). Heading west out of Denver take exit 238 which is the next exit after Idaho Springs...and is marked: St. Mary's/Alice. Follow this road (Fall River Road) passed the town of Alice just a little ways and you will see a parking lot on the left for the glacier hike. The first couple of times I went it was free to park on the side of the road....however, I recently went last weekend and found out it now costs $5.00 to park (but there is a vault toilet now).

Anyway, it is mostly an inclined hike 3/4 of a mile to the base of the glacier. I like it because it gets my heart rate up but isn't too strenuous. Then once you get to the base you can explore and even continue further up the face of the glacier. The trees are reminiscent of Lord of the Rings; as they are bent, blown, and partially barren from the wind.

I really enjoy visiting St. Mary's in the winter as it makes for an excellent snowshoeing experience. During the other seasons, the terrain is pretty rocky on the initial ascent. Folks also ski, sled, and slide down the glacier but be careful and use caution as always.

So, if you want an easy day hike with excellent views and a great excuse to eat at Beaujo's in Idaho Springs afterwards...check out St. Mary's glacier!!

South Platte Park and Carson Nature Center

I am a frequent visitor to various parks and nature centers in the area. Lately, I have really been impressed with Carson Nature Center at South Platte Park. The park and nature center are a part of South Suburban Parks and Recreation of Littleton.

Carson Nature Center offers various educational programs for schools and the public. Such programs include ranger-led wildlife tours, guided hikes, and other opportunities to learn about Colorado plants, animals, and habitats.




The facility sits on the edge of South Platte Park and offers fantastic open space trails and views of the mountains. The park is home to various species of plants and animals. Near Eaglewatch Lake an eagle or two have been known to make their home (hence, the name).

So, if you are looking for a new place to explore nature, jog, bike, or walk your dog (on leash, of course)...this is the place!

**Also, if you want to make a day of it:

Grab breakfast at local hot spot: Toast (scrumptious, yummy pancakes!) or cruise through the tiny yet quaint downtown Littleton and grab some other local treat.

Best Burgers Around Town, 2nd edition

In a past blog I listed my top three favorite burger joints around Denver. Well...I believe it is time for an update--a much needed one due to the fact that my previous list is now definitely obsolete after trying some new places!

1) Park Burger is my new favorite burger joint in Denver! In my opinion, these burgers are what the Cherry Cricket burger use to be like....the texture, size, feel, and most importantly the taste is perfect! I ordered a 1/3 lb. cheddar park burger and was really impressed. I also tried a bite of my friend's bbq burger (ask for real bacon bits...mmm!) and was so in heaven! Seriously, great burgers! They also have sweet potato fries that you can order with the works (scallions, ranch and bacon bits!!).

2) H Burger Co. was recently voted in the top three burger joints by three separate area chefs, as you can read about here. And aside from great burgers they have THE BEST milkshake in all of Denver!!--the Nutella Marshmallow shake!! MMMM!!! (update: H Burger has closed)

3) "Five Guys Burgers and Fries"has excellent burgers! Thick, juicy and delicious! I also love their natural potato fries...I like to add malt vinegar to their fries for an even better taste!

4) The Cherry Cricket. This place used to be my all time favorite but I think they got too popular that they weren't as consistent at serving up perfect burgers EVERY time...BUT they still have great burgers! Juicy, cheesy, 1/3 pound("little cricket") burgers and terrific fries!

5) Hops Grill and Brewery (Littleton, CO) serves consistently great burgers and their excellent beer selection is sure to enhance your experience! They also have a nice outdoor patio overlooking a lake for a fun summer outing.(update: Hops has closed)

6) Ruby Tuesday's Prime Burger (8 oz., 100% prime USDA beef). I know this is a big chain restaurant but seriously their Prime Burger is so juicy and tender that I have to rank it in my top five!

7) City Grille. I've mentioned this place before; it is a unique take on the classic burger. Great taste and creative twist! Check 'em out!

Beso de arte Bistro Latino

(photo from metromix.com)




Enjoy a "kiss" of culinary art at Beso, located in Morrison, Colorado. The ambiance alone is enough to make you forget the stress of the daily grind. Stone-built walls and soothing waterfalls help clear your mind and prepare your palet for some delicious and exquisite food! Whether you want to grab a bite to eat before catching a concert at Redrocks Ampitheatre (literally just around the corner), or you want to share a meal with a date or drinks with friends; this place is so adorable! You just gotta try it! Come on, you know you want to!