By Londell JacksonIt’s quite amazing how many different eateries seem to popup almost overnight all across the city. In the area where my husband and I live (Northwest Denver), there seems to be a new shop appearing almost monthly. So, in an effort to help demystifying what’s good out there, I thought I would share my two cents about a few locations we love to visit: Sunnyside Burger Bar, Sassafras, and Sunnyside Natural Market.
When we moved into the Sunnyside/Highlands area about eight years or so ago, the local eateries were few and far between. Outside a handful of Italian or Mexican shops and eateries there wasn’t a great selection to be had. Well the tides have changed and culinary diversity is at our doorstep. Among the newest establishments to come to the ‘hood is Sunnyside Burger Bar.
After several months of renovating the building which used to be a pizzeria located at the corner of West 38th Avenue and Lipan Street, this burger bar offers up some pretty tasty vittles. Offering 12 different specialty burgers, Sunnyside Burger Bar brings us gastropub fare in a laidback atmosphere. We’ve eaten there several times since its opening and have yet to be dissatisfied with our experience. During our most recent visit, we invited a friend who said (of the Little Italy Burger), “I now have a favorite burger!” Regardless of which sandwich you choose, they are all served on a toasted bun, various fixins and love from the chef. You also have a choice of meat (or non-meat) so you don’t have to settle for beef. Each time we have visited, however, my husband and I always get the Colorado Bison. How they can make a lean meat like that taste like you’re eating a slice of heaven is far beyond my comprehension. Oh, and what’s a burger without fries or rings? Well, which ever you desire, Sunnyside Burger Bar’s got you covered. We typically get one order of each to share, which is more than plenty, even among three people. This joint has a great list of beers both on tap on in bottle not to mention, wine, cocktails, and “boozy shakes.” We haven’t ventured down the shake lane since I’m lactose intolerant, but perhaps when I have a few days off and plenty of time alone, I’ll try one. Come for dinner or come for the happy hour which happens twice, daily featuring $3 select craft beers, $4 wine, and $4 well cocktails.
The cost for three burgers and three beers was around $60 which may sound like a lot but, given the quality of the food and the friendliness of the staff, is well worth the price tag.
Next on my list is Sassafras American Eatery which has two locations: one in Jefferson Park and the other on Colfax in Capital Hill. Sassafras is a breakfast and lunch spot serving up some delectable creole/Cajun inspired eats. Since it’s closest to our house, we frequent the Jefferson Park location. This place is FAR better than Lucille’s in Wash Park, but just as popular and difficult to get into. So, if you want to beat the wait, arrive before 9:45 as it seems the locals are just crawling out of bed to get there by 10am. They are open 7:00am to 2:30pm Monday through Friday and open an hour later on the weekends. I am going to cop out and say EVERYTHING IS AWESOME!!! The beignets, the biscuits and gravies (yes more than one) the fried okra and each and every breakfast option will have you licking the plate. I only order the eggs sardou which are served with fried oysters, but I sample from all the plates at the table. Again, you can’t go wrong with any choice from this place, and it is very reasonably priced: about $30 for two including coffee and juice.
Last, but certainly not least, is Sunnyside Market located at the corner of West 44th Avenue and Tejon Street. This is just what our neighborhood has needed for quite some time: a locally owned market with fresh, good quality foods. Chocked full of organic pantry goods to fresh deli meats, cheeses, and HOMEMADE bread, you cannot go wrong with anything you pick up from this mom and pop shop. Some in the neighborhood have squawked at the prices, but considering they are not a major grocery chain and they are the only quality grocery store within walking distance in the Sunnyside area. I have picked up some of their housemade ravioli which I served at a lunch get together as well as their homemade dessert and an assortment of deli meats to make a snacking plate in lieu of dinner. Oh, and let’s not forget the housemade focaccia bread which you can take away still warm and fresh from the oven. This lovely place does not yet have a website, but you can subscribe to their Facebook page and get updates on all the daily fresh offerings!
I hope you enjoy these recommendations as much as we do. From a not so simple breakfast, to a leisurely lunch or dinner right down to filling your pantry and fridge with tasty treats, I really don’t think you can go wrong. Have fun and don’t forget to experience the world one bite at a time!
