After moving to Denver from a big city, I was under the impression that I was doomed to endless disappointing dining experiences! Then, I stumbled upon Parallel Seventeen. Walking into the dining room, I was reminded of San Francisco & NYC, both places I've lived. For such a cow-town, Parallel Seventeen really stands out. The decor is hip, yet uncontrived and relaxing. The staff, friendly, un-pretentious & informed (it helps that they're all easy on the eyes). Yeah, sometimes you have to wait for a table....but why wouldn't you? The experience is definitley worth the wait...and it seems like the rest of Denver agrees. For a foodie like me, I really can appreciate and understand the fusion of French and Chinese influences in such a traditional Vietnamese menu. Its refreshing to find such a creative menu that honors a lot of traditional Vietnamese dishes; sometimes in Denver, I don't know if I'm eating Chinese food when I'm walking into a Japanese restaurant. The Vietnamese Crepes are to die for...not found in a lot of the ""traditional"" vietnamese digs in town. And the charcuterie...amazing. You can't go there without trying the calamari & the quail too. I could go on and on...but you probably get the jist.
Pros: Can have drinks and apps and hang out or come in and have dinner. Awesome patio!
Cons: Can't seat large parties on a busy night
more