Denver’s Mediterranean Secret: Cherry Creek
Denver’s Cherry Creek, a name synonymous with upscale shopping and sophisticated dining, holds a delightful secret for those seeking a taste of the Mediterranean. Imagine the sun-drenched shores of Greece, the bustling markets of Morocco, the fragrant kitchens of Lebanon – all brought to life within the heart of this vibrant neighborhood. Cherry Creek offers a surprising array of Mediterranean restaurants, each presenting its own unique interpretation of this beloved cuisine. If you’re yearning for the fresh, vibrant flavors and healthy eating experience that define Mediterranean food, look no further. This guide will take you on a culinary journey, uncovering some of Cherry Creek’s most enticing Mediterranean eateries and providing you with everything you need to enjoy the experience.
What Exactly is Mediterranean Food?
But what exactly is Mediterranean food? The term encompasses a diverse range of culinary traditions from countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, including Greece, Italy, Spain, Morocco, Lebanon, Turkey, and many more. What unites these distinct cuisines is an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, particularly olive oil, vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and eggplant, legumes such as chickpeas and lentils, an abundance of fresh herbs, lean proteins like fish, poultry, and lamb, and plenty of whole grains. The emphasis is on using healthy fats and avoiding highly processed ingredients. This produces satisfying meals bursting with flavor. Many diets have been proven to be healthy but the Mediterranean diet has received many awards. While it is not the sole reason it is good for you, it focuses on whole foods and promotes an active lifestyle.
So, ditch your passport and let’s explore the best of what Cherry Creek has to offer when it comes to authentic and innovative Mediterranean experiences.
Siena: A Taste of Italy in the Heart of Denver
Nestled on a quiet street in Cherry Creek North, Siena brings the warmth and charm of Italian trattorias to Denver. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with a touch of rustic elegance. Think exposed brick walls, soft lighting, and the aroma of freshly baked bread filling the air. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a casual lunch with friends. Siena offers something that will satisfy everyone in your party.
This is a restaurant that focuses on regional Italian fare, with an emphasis on handmade pasta and fresh seafood. The menu is seasonal, reflecting the best ingredients available from local farms. To start, I highly recommend the Burrata appetizer, served with grilled bread, roasted peppers, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a creamy, tangy, and utterly irresistible introduction to the meal. For your entree, you cannot go wrong with any of their pasta dishes. The Cacio e Pepe is perfectly al dente and packs a powerful punch of pepper and cheese. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that showcases the quality of their ingredients. The seafood lover should order the Linguine alle Vongole, prepared with fresh clams, garlic, white wine, and a touch of chili flakes. The seafood is always incredibly fresh, and the sauce is light and flavorful. It allows the delicate flavor of the clams to shine through.
What sets Siena apart is their commitment to using authentic Italian ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Their pasta is made fresh daily, and their sauces are slow-cooked to perfection. The attention to detail is evident in every dish, making for a truly memorable dining experience. “The food at Siena is incredible! I felt like I was transported back to Italy. The pasta was perfect, and the service was impeccable,” says one happy Yelp reviewer. The restaurant also features a great wine list featuring many selections from Italy. A glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio would pair beautifully with the food.
The Olive Branch: A Journey to Greece
Step into The Olive Branch, and you’ll instantly feel transported to a sun-drenched taverna in Greece. The bright, airy dining room is decorated with traditional Greek pottery, vibrant blue accents, and whitewashed walls. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, perfect for a celebration or a casual get-together. It’s a place where you can relax, enjoy good food, and soak up the warmth of Greek hospitality.
As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in classic Greek cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood, grilled meats, and flavorful dips. The menu is extensive, offering something for everyone, from seasoned Greek food aficionados to first-timers eager to explore the flavors of the Mediterranean. A visit to The Olive Branch is not complete without starting with the Meze Platter, a selection of traditional Greek dips like hummus, tzatziki, and melitzanosalata (eggplant dip), served with warm pita bread. The dips are incredibly flavorful and refreshing, providing the perfect complement to the crisp pita bread. For the main course, the Souvlaki is a must-try. Skewers of marinated chicken, lamb, or pork are grilled to perfection and served with a side of rice, vegetables, and tzatziki sauce. The meat is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The restaurant’s Mousaka is also a local favorite. Layers of ground beef, eggplant, potatoes, and creamy béchamel sauce are baked to golden perfection. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that embodies the essence of Greek comfort food.
The Olive Branch stands out because of its commitment to using authentic Greek ingredients and recipes. The owners are Greek immigrants who bring a passion for their heritage to every dish. The restaurant also offers live Greek music on certain nights, adding to the festive atmosphere. “The food was fantastic, the service was friendly, and the atmosphere was lively. I highly recommend The Olive Branch!” raves a Google reviewer. The restaurant also has an amazing wine list with many unique Greek wines.
Casablanca: A Taste of Morocco in Denver
For a more exotic and intriguing Mediterranean experience, venture to Casablanca. This Moroccan restaurant offers a truly immersive dining experience, transporting you to the heart of Marrakech. The dining room is decorated with intricate mosaics, plush cushions, and ornate lanterns, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere. The aroma of spices fills the air, tantalizing your senses and setting the stage for a truly unforgettable meal.
Casablanca specializes in traditional Moroccan cuisine, with an emphasis on slow-cooked tagines, fragrant couscous dishes, and flavorful grilled meats. The menu is a celebration of Moroccan flavors and textures, offering a unique and exciting culinary journey. A popular appetizer is the Pastilla, a sweet and savory pastry filled with shredded chicken, almonds, and spices. The contrast between the sweet pastry and the savory filling is a delight. For the main course, the Tagine is the star of the show. Choose from a variety of tagines, including lamb with prunes and almonds, chicken with olives and lemons, or vegetable tagine with chickpeas and spices. The tagines are slow-cooked in traditional earthenware pots, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful dishes. Couscous is another Moroccan staple, and Casablanca offers several variations, including couscous with vegetables, couscous with lamb, and couscous with chicken. The couscous is light and fluffy, and the toppings add a burst of flavor.
Casablanca distinguishes itself through its commitment to authenticity and its emphasis on creating a truly immersive dining experience. The restaurant offers traditional Moroccan tea service, complete with mint tea poured from a silver teapot. They also offer belly dancing performances on certain nights, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. “Casablanca is a hidden gem! The food was incredible, the atmosphere was magical, and the service was top-notch,” enthuses one satisfied customer.
Mediterranean Markets in and Near Cherry Creek
While dining out is a fantastic way to experience Mediterranean cuisine, you can also bring the flavors of the Mediterranean into your own kitchen. Several specialty markets in and around Cherry Creek offer a wide selection of Mediterranean ingredients. These ingredients will help you explore the cuisine in your own home!
Shamrock Foods offers a wide variety of imported cheeses, olives, and spices from around the Mediterranean. Middle-eastern markets provide everything you need to create authentic Mediterranean dishes at home. These stores provide affordable prices for the most fresh vegetables.
Conclusion: Your Mediterranean Adventure Awaits
Cherry Creek is a veritable treasure trove of Mediterranean culinary delights, offering a diverse range of restaurants that cater to every taste and budget. Whether you’re craving the simple elegance of Italian pasta, the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine, or the exotic spices of Morocco, you’ll find it all within the boundaries of this charming Denver neighborhood. So, I encourage you to visit these restaurants today and see which style of Mediterranean cooking you prefer the most.
Escape the ordinary and embark on a culinary adventure to the Mediterranean, right here in Cherry Creek. Experiment, explore, and enjoy. Your taste buds – and your body – will thank you for it. What is your favorite style of Mediterranean cooking? I would love to hear in the comments below!
