For the long-in-tooth, this location was formerly Frattelli's. I expected a re-do of the campy, Italian restaurant. NOT! The decor is hip and tasteful - modern in natural stone and warm colors. The bar is very inviting and the tables are cozy in this modern/warm setting. The martini list is refreshing, including some standards like Negronis and Manhattans that aren't the over-sugared, sweet cough-syrup tasting concoctions repeated at every other ""martini bar."" We ordered a nice bottle of wine from a remarkably robust wine list. The bottle we chose was sold out, so the proprieter upgraded at their expense - not necessary, but a very nice gesture from management working hard to make this place a success. The melon was cut into large sections and generously wrapped in procuitto that was sliced so appropriately paper thin and tender, it melted in your mouth. The calamari was good, albiet a bit over-breaded. I had Cioppino. Wow! I sopped every bit of the delicious, lightly spiced sauce with their fresh bread. My wife and her friend both had a delicious piece of Mahi with grilled polenta and fresh beans. I snuck a few bites from her plate and wondered if I should have ordered that. It was delicious as well. My buddy had a great plate of spagetti with huge shrimp in a spicy sauce. The most expensive thing on the menu was $24, and most was between $15 and $18 with the pastas being even a bit less. We finished off with a terrific tasting creme brule and an after dinner drink. The only disappointing surprise was that this restaurant wasn't packed on a Saturday night! (Good for us, as we got a good table. But I worry about places like this getting enough business.) There really isn't anything like this in this part of town - and it would compare well to most top tables anywhere in the city! I will try it for happy hour and see how it rates. At this point, I'd rate it: ""Highly recommended.""
Pros: Great food in great, hip atmosphere.
Cons: Unexpected location. (If I lived in Cherry Hills, this would be a weekly stop-off!)
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