Spuntino: 2639 W. 32nd Ave., 303-433-0949,
The look: Fans of the Red Trolley will recognize the room; Spuntino took over the space last month but kept the bright, sunny, dining area much as it was — spacious, friendly and dominated by a long bar and product case. Chalkboard menu.
On the menu: Lunch: Sandwiches, salads and soups. (The place is open for dinner, but the menu reads like a lunch card.) Plus coffee, desserts, ice cream and . . . wine! New contender for Denver’s best sandwich: Porchetta (spiced, roasted pork loin) sliced paper thin and piled on an impossibly fresh brioche bun, kissed with a faintly spiced mayonnaise, garnished with a zingy little tumble of pickled onions. Salads tasted fresh, desserts rich. Creativity points for the popsicles — watch for these to become 2011’s big summer trend.
The vibe: Lively but relaxed; you’ll see single diners, small groups of friends, moms with kids. Order at the counter, then pick a table. Take home dessert to eat later.
When to visit: Come slightly after the lunch rush for your pick of tables or early in the evening before a leisurely stroll home.
