This month, without Denver Restaurant Week to make fine dining affordable, it’s up to you to seek out the deals on upscale eats. Here are a few of my favorites.

A three-course dinner for $35 per person? Yes please! That’s what you’ll find at Mel’s Bar and Grill. Even better, check out the Greenwood Village spot’s $6 lunches (that’s about $2 less than lunch at the nearby Panera or Heidi’s) that includes dishes such as grilled salmon with mashed potatoes, spinach, and lemon beurre blanc. 5970 S. Holly St., Greenwood Village, 303-777-8223

Head to Solera Restaurant & Wine Bar on Tuesday nights for all-you-can-eat P.E.I. mussels and crusty bread for $17. 5410 E. Colfax Ave., 303-388-8429

On Tuesdays from 5 p.m. to close, stop by Rioja‘s bar for Sips and Snacks: four tastes of wine paired with four snacks for $15. The theme changes weekly. 1431 Larimer St., 303-820-2282

Amanda M. Faison
Amanda M. Faison
Freelance writer Amanda M. Faison spent 20 years at 5280 Magazine, 12 of those as Food Editor.