Denver's FRUITION is fabulous (2-23-23)

 We checked out a lot of options and chose FRUITION in Denver for its sustainability as well as its charity work. They donate a lot and have been doing so for 18 years while they have been serving yummy food as well. We arrived an hour late as our flight sat on the tarmac for an hour but our friends held the fort, and we were so thrilled to see them when we finally arrived at 830pm. We ordered a bottle of Barbera d'Asti from Marchese Alfieri "La Tota" to start and it was smooth and delish on the 3 degree evening (windchill -12!!) while our friends had beer and margaritas. The starters were very varied but the one dish that disappointed was the Raw Oysters as only two tiny ones arrive (for $12!) with a cucumber mignonette and caviar. Not sure how much the caviar cost as the type was not listed, but our guest felt slighted, and we felt a tad cheated. The Grilled Mediterranean Octopus Salad was huge with giant braised beans salsa verde and Castelvetrano olives while my Veal Sweetbreads Scallopini (at an amazing $9) was a superb presentation in a yummy rich melted leek sauce with crispy fried capers. A piece of grilled bread would have been nice, but I got a spoon instead (and then they told me bread was available at a cost!--no matter, my doctor told me to cut carbs!).

The main of Braised Lamb Shank with Anson Mills polenta and Pomegranate BBQ got raves and Will loved his Sauteed Striped Sea Bass with baby artichokes and berigoule emulsion, while I was thrilled with my huge juicy Roasted Half Chicken with Brussels Sprouts, bacon lardons and butternut squash puree (fotos on FB).

Dessert was irresistible and we tried two: Chocolate Torte with Chantilly cream and hazelnut caramel was rich and intense while the Leon Meringue with Graham cracker crust and blueberry was also nice and tart.

We had a great time seeing our friend Teri and meeting her husband Michael, and having great food was an added treat!!