10 Denver chefs you need to know

10 Denver chefs you need to know

By Thom Wise
Special to Metromix

The concept behind Denver Restaurant Week couldn’t be simpler. It doesn’t require your commitment to any charity, and it’s not trying to solve any of the world’s ills. Nope, all you need to remember is two words: “go eat.”

Fashioned after a similar concept begun in the mid-1980’s in NYC where diners could experience the cuisines of many of the best restaurants in town for the price of the year (lunch for $19.95, you get the idea), the DRW utilizes our Mile High status by offering a three-course meal for two for the clever price of $52.80 (tax and tip not included, and an extra person gets it for $26.40) anytime between Feb. 21 and 27.

As the years have gone on, many area chefs go all out to show their expertise, and the event becomes a phenomenal way to check out some of the Big Names that you never thought you could afford—think Restaurant Kevin Taylor, Capital Grille, Mizuna, Elway’s—and the restaurant wins because hopefully you’ll come back and try it again. There are some flat out great deal, like being able to order a four-course meal (appetizer, salad, entrée and dessert) from anything on the menu at Jonsey’s EatBar, and some places throw in some booze with it: a full three-course dinner including a bottle of wine for each couple at Dixon's Downtown Grill, or a small hot sake for each person at Hapa Sushi Grill.

If nothing else, maybe it’s just an opportunity to show some love for one of your old faves—and with over 200 restaurants to choose from, you’re sure to find something desirable.

Our words, not theirs: It’s a freakin’ celebration of the local dining scene. (And, let’s face it, it really puts butts in seats during a sluggish time of the year.)

Here is a look at 10 of Denver’s kitchen elite, all with a tie-in to Denver Restaurant Week.