What: Vesta Dipping Grill
Where: 18th and Blake St., Denver
To say that I’ve been on a lot of dates this year is an understatement. Not only have I gotten to know my boyfriend better, but I’ve also gotten to know the Denver date night scene. And just like in a romantic movie, I just can’t quit Vesta and have named it the best Denver date spot of 2013.
W
hile the food is without a doubt some of the best I’ve had in the city, what makes Vesta different from the rest is the fantastic service. Nothing can ruin a date more than dealing with a snobby server. It can take the date mood from great to downright horrible in no time at all. I can guarantee that you will not have this problem at Vesta. Every server that I’ve had while dining there has been extremely knowledgeable and helpful. But when all is said and done, being the Best of Denver Date Night isn’t just about the atmosphere. The menu should also also be up to par, and Vesta does not disappoint.
The drink selection at Vesta will please just about anyone. They have cocktails mixed with every type of liquor one could imagine. And with fun names like A Bitter Old Man and Vote for Pedro, you and your date will have fun picking out something to sip on. My personal favorite, the Where the Buffalo Roam served on the rocks, is mixed with Buffalo Trace bourbon, Laird’s Applejack, house-made grenadine and ginger beer. It’s a great choice to give you that liquid courage to keep the conversation going, but between the small plates and entrées, you’ll most likely have plenty to talk about.
I have tried almost all of the small plates at Vesta, and have always been extremely satisfied. Most recently, our server recommended the Pan Roasted Beet Salad. I’m sure you’re thinking, “Beets? I’m on a date and beets don’t exactly scream romance, unless you’re Dwight Schrute.” I agree, but hear me out. The salad was served warm with candied pine nuts, MouCo Camembert brulée and sherry vinaigrette; it was insanely good and I highly recommend it. It has a bold flavor but is still light enough that you won’t fill up too much before the main event. I also order the House Made Tagliatelle every time I go to Vesta. Their homemade egg noodles are topped with the season’s freshest ingredients, and it’s the perfect size to share.
When it comes to entrées, you cannot go wrong with the Grilled Beef Tenderloin. The tenderloin is cooked to perfection, topped with Hazel Dell mushrooms and served with caramelized onion mashed potatoes and roasted tomatoes. What makes Vesta’s version of this classic dish special is that it is served with three homemade sauces. The black pepper aioli, roasted corn and sweet onion BBQ sauces can be mixed and matched with the entrée according to your taste preference. Top the night off with the Chocolate Truffle Trio, an assortment of house made truffles with ingredients like chocolate peanut butter and Maldon sea salt.
From the first encounter with the hostess to the last bite of dessert, Vesta has it all. The candle lit ambiance, great service and delicious food all help make for a wonderful night to spend with someone that you care about. The point of a date should be to have fun getting to know the person you are with and Vesta is the perfect setting to make that happen.
Photos by Adam Ripplinger, 303 Magazine.