More than 1,500 vegetarians and vegans are expected at this weekend confab at the new Ritz-Carlton Denver. Speakers include chefs, activists, and punk rocker Tim McIlrath of the Chicago band Rise Against. Come rub elbows with fellow veg-heads, and nibble on a roomful of samples. Plus, check out the new Ritz! Saturday, all day. Visit for tickets and information. Tucker Shaw
Chef’s Basket
When chef Florian Wehrli and Chimney Park Bistro parted ways last year, the Swiss-born chef didn’t even consider moving from northern Colorado. Instead, he took all his favorite things — wine service, local products, cooking classes, a couple of tables for dining in, and take-out dishes — and tossed them into one basket. The store/lounge opened recently in the new Water Valley development on Windsor’s south side. The menu changes every day. 1345 Water Valley Parkway, Windsor, 970-545-3074, Kristen Browning-Blas
Mise en Place
Need an in-office lunch for a big client meeting? Forget the same old chain sub shops and buzz Mise en Place for a big selection of innovative sandwiches, salads and soups. Menu changes daily, so call ahead, but look for the pork tostada with pisco-soaked raisins, tarragon and caper egg salad with smoked salmon on foccacia, or good old grilled Swiss and cheddar on rye. Cookies, too. 1801 Wynkoop, 303-293-2224, Tucker Shaw
