Potager $$$

1109 Ogden St., Denver
303/832-5788
www.potagerrestaurant.com [1]

HOURS: Tues.–Thurs. 5:30–10 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 5:30–11 p.m.

COST: Most entrées more than $20

Potager was on the cutting edge of seasonal, locally grown ingredients long before those ideas became mainstream.

Across the street from a launderette and a grocery store in the thick of the Capitol Hill neighborhood, Potager stands out as a simply elegant restaurant in the clatter of the city. There are tables out back where the chef grows a few herbs and small vegetables, and inside crisp white tablecloths stand out against the pock-marked concrete walls.

The menu changes frequently to keep up with what is seasonally available; some examples include spinach and nettle soup in spring, and Colorado lamb and beef, fresh garden salads, and desserts with Colorado-grown peaches, rhubarb, strawberries, and more.

No reservations are accepted and the best time to come is early or on a weeknight. There is limited free parking behind the restaurant.