Castle Rock residents were thrilled when Elizabeth and Myles Ogea opened the doors of their sleek new restaurant, The Social, in the Village at Castle Pines. This was especially true when they learned that talented chef Lance Barto would be at the helm. Barto (whose substantial list of credits include Linger, Central Bistro & Bar, Strings, and Wild Catch) is known for his clean, clear flavors that capture the peak of the season’s freshness. He doesn’t disappoint.

Seasonality runs through the four-part menu of vegetables, seafood, poultry, and meat. Barto incorporates local flavors whenever possible and adds a global twist to each dish. Go first to the chilled carrot soup (pictured). Poured tableside and with a quenelle of herbed crème fraîche, the silky smooth, curry-laced soup is garnished with fresh peapods, sliced radish, fresh herbs, and shaved root vegetables. Move to the thick, tender slices of roasted pork belly with ras el hanout, fresh herbs, and Moroccan chickpea salad; or the roasted duck breast with sliced Colorado peaches, herbed polenta, and arugula.

Tip: Save room for the summery cherry mascarpone tart with sour cherry gastrique and cherry ice cream.

In the Village at Castle Pines, 872 W. Happy Canyon Road, Suite #100, Castle Rock, 303-524-788