Deno’s Mountain Bistro in downtown Winter Park has found the perfect balance between formal and casual, delicious and ostentatious. The venerable eatery is typically packed with locals, always a good sign. Even though owner Deno Kutrumbos has jammed his foyer with big-screen televisions, those locals are there for more than drink. The grub in the bar is standard burger and wings fare but extraordinarily tasty. The real gastronomical party is found in the dining room. Make sure to listen closely to the specials. Deno’s creamy and cheesy artichoke au gratin is one-of-a-kind good. The Voodoo chicken pasta will leave you grasping to recognize an eclectic storm of spices.
Don’t miss Deno’s Steak Bada Bing, which marries peppered steak with arugula and grilled portabello. The prices, par for Winter Park at less than $20 an entree, will make you wonder why similar dishes in other resorts cost twice as much.
Get there — 78911 U.S. 40, in downtown Winter Park.
Got eats? Know a great high-country restaurant/bar/cafe/burrito stand? Send tasty tips to outdoorextremes@denverpost.com.
