Our second post in the series explores the eateries of central Denver (thanks again to Dodie Ownes, editor of SLJTeen, for the suggestions). Haven’t read the first post? Be sure to do so – you don’t want to miss the great tips and dining suggestions for downtown Denver!
The central Denver area is southeast of the convention center, so you may want to jump in a cab or take the 
Light Rail (see previous post), especially if it’s a cool evening. The Auraria/University of Colorado-Denver campus, just west of the convention center, is a good landmark to keep in mind when navigating the city. Speer Boulevard is on the west side of the convention center, and Colfax Avenue borders the south side – many of the restaurants below are in the area known as the Golden Triangle. If you have a little extra time at lunch, or time to explore at dinner, you will find any of these a wonderful choice.
Buckhorn Exchange, 1000 Osage Street (www.buckhornexchange.com)
Get a taste of the West at this classic Denver establishment. Game, fish and both kinds of oysters (those from the sea and the Rocky Mountain variety – ask a local for an explanation) are featured on the menu.
City, O’ City, 206 E. 13th Avenue (www.watercoursefoods.com)
For vegans, foodies and carnivores. Two locations in downtown Denver.
Dazzle Restaurant and Lounge, 930 Lincoln Street (www.dazzlejazz.com)
Denver’s premier jazz club; also a fabulous place for a classic cocktail and great meal. Everyone will feel cool sitting in the retro bar area, and if you are looking for a late night eat, this is the spot – the kitchen stays open practically ’til closing.
Cuba Cuba Cafe & Bar, 1173 Delaware St., (denver.citysearch.com/profile/11575494/denver_co/cuba_cuba.html)
Denver’s only full-scale, authentic Cuban restaurant. The entire experience will transport you to the island for a short eating vacation.
Dougherty’s Neighborhood Pub, 5 E. Ellsworth Avenue (www.doughertysrestaurant.com)
It’s a pub, but the food’s good, and reasonably priced. In addition to the usual pub grub, Dougherty’s is known for its stuffed burgers and Irish dishes.
Go Fish, 1 Broadway Unit B108, (gofishdenver.com)
Sushi and sashimi, Japanese and fusion entrees, plus a full bar. Dinner only on Sunday. Moderately priced.
Heidi’s Brooklyn Deli, 555 17th Street, (www.heidisbrooklyndeli.com)
A Brooklyn-style deli started in Denver in 1994. Local favorite: fresh mozarella and pesto sandwich on ciabatta bread.
Le Central, 112 E Eighth Avenue, (www.lecentral.com)
Traditional French food at extremely reasonable prices. The prix fixé specials, and the mussels and fries are especially good values.
Limon, 1618 E 17th Avenue, (www.limondenver.com)
“Novoandino cuisine” (i.e., Peruvian-influenced entrees and tapas), and South American wine and beer. Dinner only, closed Sundays.
Strings, 1700 Humboldt Street, (www.stringsrestaurant.com)
Artsy interior. Chef Humboldt scores big with creative offerings that include outstanding seafood specials, and possibly Denver’s best veal chop. The bar also delivers classic cocktails done to perfection.
Taki’s Healthy Japanese Food, 341 E Colfax Ave
A Colorado State Library favorite with sushi, Chicken Tonkatsu and miso soup.
Vine Street Pub, 1700 Vine Street, (www.mountainsunpub.com)
Pub fare, home brews, and no televisions! The two locations in Boulder weren’t enough, so the owners opened the Vine Street Pub in Denver. (Beware – it’s a long walk.)
Wolfe’s BBQ, 333 East Colfax Avenue
A one-man BBQ treasure on Colfax, just up the street from the Capitol. Ribs or tofu, regular or hot (very hot) sauce.
Don’t miss our third and final post Monday – complete with information for those looking to explore outside of Denver while at ISTE!