Nonnas Chicago Bistro, Denver

Nonna's Chicago Bistro, named Best Italian in 2011 on Denver's 7 A-List, lures hungry passersby with a menu of Windy City–style Italian fare, more than 20 wines by the glass, and complimentary ciabatta bread with saucy marinara. The original owners, a family of Chicago natives, dedicated Nonna's to their grandmother, whose passion for hearty, homestyle fare inspired their chefs to perfect such classics as chicken parmigiana, lasagna, and slow-cooked, Chicago-style ribs. Dinners pair with a glass of Italian Da Vinci chianti or a Don David Malbec, or assorted well drinks and domestic brews from the exposed-brick bar.

Nonna's Chicago Bistro's dining room provides guests with an elegant eating area, boasting walls painted with grapevine designs and windows that welcome breathtaking views. The quaint eatery also features live music performed by jazz trios, classical guitarists, and country crooners on weekend evenings.