As has become a common theme, chef Lance Barto, of the six-week-old Central Bistro and Bar [2], is committed to showcasing local produce and product. His menu lists Wisdom Farm [3]'s roasted chicken, Colorado lamb, sautéed Alamosa striped bass, and a raw salad with 15 kinds of fresh and pickled vegetables. But when crafting his favorite dishes, this Colorado native, and veteran of Linger [4], Strings [5], and Wynkoop [6], isn’t always satisfied with stopping at our state’s borders.

Determined to offer all-American flavors, the versatile chef sources top ingredients from around the country, adding Iowa bacon and Wisconsin cheese curds to Colorado sweet corn in creamy risotto; pairing Washington steelhead trout with California heirloom beans and house-made pasta; or folding Dungeness crab into mac and cheese with roasted red pepper and fried Circle Fresh [7] green tomatoes. One standout dish features an Iowa pork chop with sweet Washington onions, smoked Colorado peach barbecue sauce, and a fresh Palisade peach salad.

Throw in chef-driven cocktails, a vibrant dining room (pictured), and a patio overlooking Denver’s skyline, and Central is a hot new addition to LoHi.

1691 Central St., 303-477-4582