Archive for the 'Denver - Italian' Category
CARMINE’S ON PENN
by Erin M. Blakemore
CARMINE’S ON PENN
92 South Pennsylvania Street, Denver, CO 80209
(303) 777-6443
Co-chefs Brian Senft and Brian Durbin have more in common than their first names. They’ve both trained and traveled extensively in Italy and along with owner Chris Linker are responsible for the dishes that turn Carmine’s tables into groaning boards of Italian treasures. There are no menus, just strategically placed chalkboards that spell out the specialties of the house. The rolls bathed in garlic butter arrive and immediately disappear. Baskets are replaced and replaced again. Each dish is meant for sharing with plenty to go around. The signature Caesar and other salad combinations are served from a large bowl that’s left tableside. The delicate Chicken Piccata has a fresh, lemony taste, while the Veal Parmigana is lightly breaded and served in a robust red sauce with just the perfect amount of mozzarella melting over the sides. Wait staff fill the plates and return to offer a generous second serving. Tiramisu and homemade, delicately sweet cannolis are dessert menu standouts with refreshing fruit pizzas added in summer. There’s always a line at the door of this festive, noisy, neighborhood trattoria. Hearty Italian recipes keep the crowds coming back.