Before we dive into another week in the Denver dining scene, let’s recap all the happenings of the past seven days — openings, more openings, drunk driving prevention and a taco contest.

Central Market Announces Grand Opening

Photo courtesy of Central Market on Facebook.

Photo courtesy of Central Market on Facebook.

One of the most anticipated openings for Fall 2016 has finally arrived. Central Market announced their Grand Opening will take place Sunday, September 25. With over 10 local and gourmet vendors, Central Market aims to make beautiful, fresh ingredients easily accessible in one 12,000-square-foot location. Read more here.

Adrift Tiki Bar Reopens

Photo by Brittany Werges

Photo by Brittany Werges

After just a few short weeks of remodel and a change in ownership, Adrift is set to reopen this Saturday. They will debut both a new bar and food menu, with special creations from the owners’ other establishment, Little Man’s. “We want to immerse ourselves in the Polynesian culture, learn about it and celebrate it,” explained Tamburello. “Unlike kitsch, Tiki-tacky bars, Adrift is focused on authenticity, a welcoming spirit and an invitation to escape.” Read more here. 

Avelina Opens in Downtown

Photo courtesy of Avelina Facebook

Photo courtesy of Avelina Facebook

Last Labor Day evening marked the opening of Avelina at 1550 17th Street in Downtown Denver. This welcomed restaurant features New American cuisine inspired by chef John Broening’s time spent cooking Italian, French and Mediterranean. Broening will be back together, for the first time in several years, with Duo pastry chef Yasmin Lozada-Hissom.

#GiveADamn

Photo courtesy of Lyft Facebook

Photo courtesy of Lyft Facebook

Beginning this Friday, Lyft and Budweiser are offering up to 5,000 ($10) rides every weekend through the end of the year. Every Thursday at 2 p.m., Budweiser will post the current week’s code to it’s Facebook and Twitter accounts. Users 21 and up can enter said code into the Lyft app to receive a $10 ride credit. This collaboration is in hopes of encouraging people to drink responsibly and promotes Budweiser’s newest initiative “Give a damn. Don’t drink and drive.”

Taco Contest at Los Chingones

Photo courtesy of Tag Restaurant Group

Photo courtesy of Tag Restaurant Group

In honor of National Taco Day (October 4), Los Chingones is holding a “wild card” taco contest from now until September 24. Locals are encouraged to get a little creative and design their own taco. Finalists will receive $100 and a chance to have their taco featured on the RiNo location’s menu. For more information and to submit your taco entry, email: taco@tag-restaurant.com