Highland's Garden Cafe serves freshly made fare and abundant charm

Operating on Zen wisdom that says a life lived fully and completely is the “supreme meal,” owner-chef Pat Perry quite literally takes that metaphor into Highland’s Gardens Cafe on a meal-by-meal basis. At a charming 1890’s house augmented by abundant gardens and good spirits (figuratively and literally), expect a menu that changes daily based on fresh, seasonal ingredients that inspire healthy, delicious food.

The romantic restaurant is a natural choice for Mother’s Day, birthdays, anniversaries and marriage proposals. Any warm day is perfect for tree-shaded patio dining in the gardens—guests are accommodated with outside seating year-round upon request. Outdoor pathways were created so that diners are able take a stroll and soak up the beautiful surroundings wherever they sit. With three indoor  fireplaces, the restaurant is also a warm and cozy choice to chase away the chill on snowy evenings. The space features six, distinct dining rooms with décor that ranges from delightful Victorian accents to exposed-brick walls and intriguing trompe-l’oeil murals.

Highland's Gardens' Zagat-rated food has won the restaurant kudos since it opened in 1994—it was one of the first destination venues that helped put Highland neighborhood on the map. You’ll find an extensive menu of salads, plus select soups and appetizers. Dinner entrées might include scallops with passion-fruit glaze and grilled pineapple, kiwi and mango salad. Or you might be treated to buffalo tenderloin with dried fruit-and-cashew quinoa pilaf. The weekend brunch menu changes as well, but includes creative egg dishes, along with entrées such as duck tostadas and vegetarian crepes. There’s a wide selection of after-dinner dessert wines, ports and cognacs—as well as a family-flavored dessert menu.

The restaurant is available for private group outings and special occasions, and also hosts a prix fixe luncheon for senior citizens and their guests on the second Wednesday of every month. Plus there are a number of special events available to the public throughout the year, such as lunch and a talk about herbs or flowers, a do-it-yourself workshop and holiday-themed menus. Check the website at www.highlandsgardencafe.com/newsletter/ or call the restaurant to see what’s coming up.

HelloDenver tip: Have a romantic date planned? Request the private deck on the east side of the café that seats only two. Be sure to make that request far in advance.

restaurant dining American cafe garden romantic patio brunch lunch dinner Highland neighborhood