Nestled in the heart of Cherry Creek North, Ondo's Spanish Tapas Bar [2] is perhaps best known for its Spanish tapas menu. But this restaurant [3], run by husband-and-wife team Curt and Deicy Steinbecker (who spent five years cooking in San Sebastian and Barcelona), also serves lunch.

Anchoring the menu are filling bocadillos: Spanish sandwiches served on crusty baguettes that bear little resemblence to the American foodstuff. The most traditional of the bunch, the Español, comes stacked with fluffy egg-and-potato tortilla (sort of like an omelet), ham, Manchego cheese, and a smear of aïoli. The combo straddles the line of breakfast and lunch, and I love it.

The menorquino—ground beef, mahon cheese, caramelized onions, bacon, and
romesco sauce—is as messy and hearty as they come. A cross between a burger and a meatball sub, this is a sandwich made for sharing. Order this one with an Ondo's inspired side salad: a lovely combo of baby lettuce, toasted pine nuts, sliced olives, and fresh tomatoes.

Bonus: If you taste and like Ondo's Español bocadillo, make sure to also try Vert Kitchen [4]'s rendition of the traditional sandwich.

Ondo's Spanish Tapas Bar, 250 Steele St., 303-975-6514

Vert Kitchen, 704 S. Pearl St., 303-997-5941