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When you finally have the motivation to feast beyond the boundaries of South University Boulevard and South High Street the multitude of options awaiting you in a metropolitan area of nearly 1 million that offers everything from trendy bistros in LoDo to authentic Chinese and Asian restaurants in West Denver to Mexican cantinas up north and a variety of other cuisines in between.
On a weekend when you’re ready for something a little more tantalizing than Salsa Rico, head to the lunch buffet at Little India at 2390 S. Downing St. Little India has four Denver locations and promises diners a far east experience, but at an unfortunately high price for a student budget. Which is why for $8.99 a lush line of all you can eat Indian cuisine is a brilliant solution to your stomach pangs. Open from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on weekdays and 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on weekends the Basmati rice, butter chicken, potatoes paneer, vegetable piccora and yogurt are enough to make any rumblings dissipate into the aroma of rich cumin, garlic and curry.
If your parents are in town for the weekend and some hefty dining is in order try Houston’s at 303 Josephine St. The American steak house may be a part of nationwide chain Hillstone but the professional wait staff will make sure your every need is met from dewy carafes of water to that perfect dessert to compliment your meal. No cell phones are allowed in the dining room, which can be useful for those anal-retentive workaholic fathers who need a little prodding for direct attention. The menu includes the standard grill menu, ranging from appetizers like artichoke dip to dinner entrées such as juicy prime ribs and succulent steaks. A full service sushi bar and bar accent the restaurant’s living room-like décor. Be prepared though, Houston’s charges for its excellent service and the check will most likely run just around $20 a person.
For tangy Thai favorites in six convenient Denver locations Thai Basil proves a safe alternative to around campus options. The Washington Park location 540 E. Alameda Dr. introduces interesting Thai décor. The high tables where food is laid before you at nearly breast level are ornate with wooden carvings, paired with the scent of sweet and spicy coconut milk based curries and delicious takes on beef complete the experience. Lunch prices are available until 3 p.m. and range from $6.50 to $7.95. Dinner will cost you a bit more, between $8.95 and $12.50, and portions are the same so we suggest you take advantage of an early start to get the most of your night out.
If a clutch meal with your friends is in order en route to Union Station there’s no question Two Fisted Mario’s is your spot of choice. The itty bitty pizza joint has a whimsical carnival feel, match that with the best sauce in town and value is truly inevitable.
Thin-crusted New York slices take precedence here, but be prepared for a wait, the secret’s out and the line can be out the door at 1626 Market St.
