Had the pleasure of dining at Rioja Restaurant in Denver last night. We shared a meal that was stellar. I cut and pasted the menu description of what we had because it does justice more than anything I would have written. The breads were interesting as well and the service was enthusiastic. The dining room is loud and open and I would have enjoyed a little lower volume. But all in all an outstanding evening, with fresh ingredients and formidable flavors. Probably my best meal of 2010. (The wine was pedestrian, a so-so Rioja that tasted like a vanilla and chocolate cabernet. )
warm Brussels sprout and chestnut salad, pancetta vinaigrette, black mission figs, fig coulis, lemon crème fraîche
black truffle gnocchi, exotic mushrooms, red wine truffle emulsion, organic arugula
saffron manchego risotto and seared Muscovy duck breast, pistachio pine nut stuffed Medjool dates, saffron almond cracker, spiced citrus jus
pan roasted Petaluma chicken, mac and cheese ravioli, dill crème fraîche tossed spinach salad, brandy pan jus
pear and almond tart, almond “blondie”, red wine poached pears, smoked almond ice cream, Madeira gastrique, candied almonds