NoRTH in Denver Colorado

NoRTH

Address: 190 Clayton Ln.

Cross Streets: 2nd Ave & Clayton

Phone: 720-941-7700

Price: $$$

Reservations: Yes

Hours: L-D:Daily

NoRTH brings a great scene to Cherry Creek North combining old and new--"old" brick walls, huge windows and corrugated ceiling, but "new" wood floors, sleek white-and-light-green furniture with chrome, a great bar and an open kitchen. The staff wears striking black; every touch complements the theme, and modern Italian food completes the picture. Start with zucca (fried zucchini) chips that are seriously addictive, crisp calamari with baby arugula, grilled artichokes or grilled lemons that create a wonderful combination of texture and taste. Grilled bread, chopped salad and romaine hearts are other starters. The flat-crust pizza from the wood-burning oven boasts a crust that is chewy, not crisp, with several topping choices. Pastas are not just the ordinary--for example, strozzapreti, mushrooms, spinach, pine nuts and Parmesan cream combine for an excellent dish, as does the risotto with roasted corn and seared scallops. Selecting an entrée takes time, as there are so many options: short-rib osso buco, salmon with roasted squash, Delmonico steak, rosemary chicken, duck breast and veal chop. Each plate delivers great presentation and flavor without pretense. Don't leave without dessert, as the tiramisu and warm Nutella chocolate cake are outrageous. The upbeat crowd enjoys the bar scene, where seats are at a premium. NoRTH is just what Cherry Creek North has been looking for--a place that has it all.