Sizzling spots in the Mile High City: OpenTable’s top picks

OpenTable recently released a list of Denver’s top restaurants, which range from Italian favorites to Mediterranean classics. The list is based on metrics that helped determine the best establishments in the Mile High City.

Earlier this summer, the restaurant-reservation service released OpenTable icons, a list that features a handful of the hottest restaurants known as the “best of the best.” To reach icon status, OpenTable said restaurants need to meet criteria including having accolades like Michelin stars and James Beard Foundation awards and nominations, positive diner and critic reviews, celebrated chefs and strong diner interest.

Here are OpenTable’s “icon” status restaurants in Denver:

1. Tavernetta – This Italian restaurants in downtown and is known for its award-winning handmade pasta. It has claimed Michelin’s Bib award two years in a row
2. Rioja – A Mediterranean restaurant in Larimer Square serves local seasonal products. It’s an icon because Rioja’s chef, Jennifer Jasinski, was the first chef from Denver to win a James Beard award for Best chef Southwest in 2013.
3. The Wolf’s Tailor – it’s another Michelin award-winning spot, it combines flavor from Nordic, Italian and East Asian cuisines with a menu that switches based on the month. Warmer months are focused on garden produce while cooler months feature local game and fermentation
4. Bruto – It’s a contemporary American establishment that has won accolades like the Michelin star and the green star. It’s know for up-close cooking where guests can watch the entire culinary process.  Last year the New York Times named it’s hearth bread as one of the best dishes across the whole country
5. Basta – it’s another Italian spot in Boulder it to was recognized by Michelin when it received the Bib Gourmand Award. The restauranteurs, Erika Whitaker and Kelly Whitaker were noticed by the James Beard Awards in the “Outstanding Restaurateur” category. The duo is also behind Bruto and The Wolf’s Table

ENJOY!!

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