We missed the snow. In fact, we missed a breeze or even a drop in temperature this week as a great, big heave of Arctic air blasted down and took Denver from 93 degrees and hot (for them) to 32 degrees and snowing. But not so much as the widely anticipated waft showed up for us. Sigh.
Despite the disappointment of relief from the heat and the ongoing restrictions (and threats to health, life, and livelihood) that keep us from living “normal” lives, a very informal poll of my neighbors suggests we are all ready to take up the annual post Labor Day practice of resuming dining al fresco.
Let’s get on that this weekend while celebrating the Saints season opener, too.
A few weeks ago I suggested employing a handy, lightweight, quiet, cordless Dewalt fan when planning to dine outdoors. They weigh about 7 pounds, will run for hours on a rechargeable 20 volt Lithium ion battery, and you can score one in any home improvement store. I am making that suggestion again.
Located on a leafy stretch of St. Charles Avenue in the Warehouse District, Herbsaint is offering enhanced outdoor sidewalk seating (along with dine-in, takeout, delivery, and limited indoor seating) for both lunch and dinner. Aim that fan close, pretend it is an Autumn breeze and psyche yourself into believing it is so with the Muscovy Duck Leg Confit with Dirty Rice and Citrus Gastrique; followed by the Banana Brown Butter Tart with Fleur de Sel Caramel. You can make a reservation (mandatory) here.
A few blocks away, the lovely Gianna also offers outdoor dining on the covered patio (as well as dine-in, takeout, delivery and limited indoor seating) for dinner Wednesday through Sunday. New this month, the chic spot recently introduced Sunday Supper, a weekly changing three-course meal for $35 per person with available wine pairings. This Sunday’s menu starts with a vibrant chopped salad; followed by a Tummala of Meatballs, Chicken and Sausage; and finishes with a Spumoni Bomb. Make a (mandatory)reservation or check out upcoming Sunday Supper menus here.
For the Saints season opener GW Fins is offering one fast-moving host or hostess the opportunity to score the Fresh Quarter restaurant’s gorgeous Private Dining Room for an exclusive Saints Game viewing party in this Sunday for the host and up to 20 friends. The main dining room will open on Sunday at 5:00 p.m. for reserved seating but the party can get started in the private room, which includes a large, flat screen television, as early as 2:30 p.m. Executive Chef Michael Nelson will create fabulous appetizers and cocktails ahead of kick-off. Entrees will be served at half time but libations will flow throughout the experience. Contact rhegan@gwfins.com to make it happen.
You can also make the season opener at posh occasion at home. Check out Fins’ menu for Delivery or Curbside Pick Up here.
Have a great week, everyone. Use it to celebrate the culture and the community you love: this should be a bit easier with the return of the Saints! Be kind to your neighbors, keep your distance, wash your hands, and do what you can to sling some money towards our homegrown restaurants.