Out with the old, in with the new…Thomas Baranoucky is Mirepoix‘s new executive chef—but he’s not the only change at this Cherry Creek restaurant. Behold the prices: Every item of the lunch menu—from the double Angus beef hamburger to the open-face veggie raviolis—is just $10. That’s a deal, considering the quality of Baranoucky’s creative American cuisine not to mention the posh ambience in the sleek dining room. 150 Clayton Lane, 303-253-3000.

Dealio…It’s a rare day you find a bargain meal at a Denver steak house, but at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar that day comes once a week. On Sundays, order the 12-ounce “prime” prime rib dinner—complete with salad, side dish, a trio of sauces, and dessert—for $24.95. Of course, the tempting wines by the glass (there are 100!) are almost sure to blow your budget. 191 Inverness Drive West, Englewood, 303-768-0827, flemingssteakhouse.com.

Culinary adventure…On Monday, July 25, Opus Restaurant teams up with Littleton’s Mainstreet Players for a wine dinner reminiscent of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Players dressed in Wonderland costume will assist the staff during the evening and the five-course, playful menu is modeled after chapters in the book including “Advice from a Caterpillar” (exotic mushroom and golden potato salad with crisp egg and spring pea dressing) and “The Mad Tea Party” (Pekoe tea roast saddle of rabbit with brioche bacon crumb stuffing, and lemon tea sorrel butter sauce). Cocktails begin at 6:30 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m. The dinner costs $95 per person, not including tax and tip. 2575 W. Main St., Littleton, 303-703-6787.

It’s hot out there…Besides chef Stephen Rohs‘ contemporary American cuisine, there’s another reason to visit the Painted Bench: happy hour on the patio. Those wary of the sun can seek respite inside at the Bench’s bar—dubbed the “Fountain Room” for its earlier days as a soda fountain. 400 E. 20th Ave., 303-863-7473.

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