Walking into Syntax restaurant and bar is akin to walking into another place and time. Dark wood, dim lighting and the extensive use of red velvet give the sentiment of a 19th-century establishment. Old paintings, wheat in jars, soft music and even the menu perpetuate this atmosphere.
The eatery is located at 554 South Broadway among old bookshops and cafes. The hours for Syntax are unique as well–4 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily. This is perfect for any night owls looking for a good bite to eat.
At Syntax, you won’t find more than an item or two that sound remotely familiar. Most of the menu—aside from a few soups, salads and paninis—are small plates with samplings of food on them, perfect for sharing with a group. Highlights include Rabbit Stuffed Dates ($7), Smoked Trout Horseradish Spread ($7) and Pickled Veggie Crudite ($6).
In addition to the dining area in Syntax, there is also a bar area that serves a variety of beers, wine and spirits. Cocktails are inspired by a combination of early Denver history and the modern landscape of alcoholic beverages. Most feature fresh herbs to complement the existing flavors of the drinks.
If you come at the right time, as my group did, you will be treated to a performance while you wait for food. An absolutely delightful jazz band performed as our meals were prepared, completed by several couples taking to the dance floor to swing dance. A unique mixture of sophistication and laid-back fun is palpable in Syntax.
At first, to be honest, I was a bit nervous to try the exotic-sounding plates that my group and I ordered. This feeling was exacerbated when our beet lemonade arrived, which tasted a bit like lemonade mixed with dirt. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the food that soon arrived at our table.
The presentation of the tapas-like plates was exquisite, and the care put into the preparation of the food was evident. We sampled the Navajo Fry Bread Trout Taco ($4), Rabbit Stuffed Dates ($7), Smoked Trout Horseradish Spread ($7), Baked Avocado ($6), both Deconstructed Deviled Eggs ($4 each) and the classic Grilled Cheese ($7). Each of the dishes had a unique and delicious flavor unlike anything I had tried before, combining exotic flavors for a distinctive and surprisingly filling meal. My personal favorites were the Smoked Trout Horseradish Spread and Navajo Fry Bread Trout Taco.
If you have room for dessert, there are several specialties. I tried the Scorched Milk Caramel ($5), which was a delicious chocolate custard-like concoction. Other options include Baked Peach ($5) and Autumn Spice Souffle ($5).
The term “physic opera,”the second part of Syntax’s name means “medicine show”, and everything from the food to the conversation at Syntax is medicine. The food nourished the body and the conversation that the cozy atmosphere and commutative dining encouraged nourished the soul.
The next time you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path restaurant, some sophistication, history or just a good place to converse with friends, Syntax is your place for some “medicine” for the soul.
