Tamayo in Denver Colorado

Tamayo

Address: 1400 Larimer St.

Cross Streets: 14th and Larimer

Phone: 720-946-1433

Price: $$$

Reservations: Yes

Hours: L-D:Mon-Fri, D:Sat-Sun

Tamayo remains one of the most popular spots in Larimer Square and for good reason. Chef/owner Richard Sandoval brings his successful New York concept to Denver, featuring old Mexican favorites with a modern twist. Folks are totally smitten with wonderful food, fabulous ambience and great service. The first thing to catch your eye is the semi-precious gem tile mural on the wall behind the bar. At the bar, look over tempting tequilas, wines and a variety of other drinks featured on the wall. Light woods and comfortable seating bring a gorgeous look to this prime space. The rooftop patio and lounge rate tops in town for drinks, dining and the view. The fabulous tie paintings are featured upstairs in the private dining room and stairway and are spectacular. Bright colors complement the scenes and add warmth to the restaurant. Tamayo defies typical Mexican food, focusing on the cooking of interior Mexico, adding delightful modern touches and super interpretations. Start with the awesome chunky guacamole served with homemade tortilla chips. Try tamal al chipotle--steamed masa removed from the corn husk, stuffed with shredded chicken and served with sweet chipotle sauce, crema fresca, avocado and cilantro oil. Other favorites include seafood tacos, quesadillas and amazing poblano chile and corn soup served with a huitlachoche dumpling. Halibut ceviche and crispy-fried calamari with a spicy sauce are heavenly. The best pan-fried snapper with Anaheim chile stuffed with goat cheese brings sighs of delight along with tears of heat. Try the chicken with corn pico de gallo and achiote-Habanero sauce, rib-eye skewers with grilled cactus, tamarind-marinated pork tenderloin. Crêpes with wild mushrooms please vegetarians--and meat eaters--alike. Macadamia-nut cheesecake with caramel filling and chocolate ganache topping, flan, banana empanadas with coconut ice cream, and crêpes with caramelized walnuts and Cajeta and an amazing tres leches bread pudding served with candied pecans and chocolate ice cream end the meal. Don't miss the exceptional wine list that won Best Wine List in Food & Wine Magazine. Service is more than excellent; no one misses a beat in the front of the house. Tamayo brings new meaning to fine dining and fun in Denver.