Happy February to my neighbors in North Denver. This is the month for us to show how much we love that special person with Valentine’s Day around the corner. So, I wanted to find a place that captures that romantic vibe with a North Denver flair and environment that welcomes both first dates and long-time relationships.
That place is a new spot that took over the old Z Cuisine location at 2239 W. 30th Ave. called Cart-Driver LoHi. What a job they did in combining the street level into one restaurant!
The concept is wood-fired gourmet pizza with a fantastic appetizer selection inspired by the culture of Southern Italy, when cart-drivers used to bring fresh foods and produce to the villages from the farms. The result is mouthwatering pizzas with a variety of selections for toppings.
The menu also includes fresh flown-in-daily oysters, processor on tap, seasonal market plates and Italian style spritzers. They have a large outdoor seating area and street parking.
Having been raised by an Italian grandmother in the North Ends of Boston, the true test of a great pie was the crust, and they nailed it at Cart-Driver. The crust was perfect in texture, flavor and complimentary with the toppings we selected.
The décor is very open and nicely designed to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere perfect for a date. I also was wowed by the open kitchen and wood-fire oven that greets you as soon as you walk through the doors with a hint of garlic in the air!
The bar is nestled in the corner of the place and with a great selection of wines and specialty craft cocktails. What also caught my attention and makes this place great for Valentine’s Day and romantic dates is there are no televisions! I love that! Even if you are single sitting at the bar, it invites you to engage in conversation with strangers.
The bartender and servers were extremely friendly and knew the menu well. They did a great job helping us make the right pairing of appetizers and entrées.
The place is perfect for large groups and families with an open village vibe that welcomes sharing of foods, stories and local chat about what’s going on in the neighborhood.
Cart-Driver is open for lunch and dinner, community hours and late nights seven days a week. They are located at 2239 W. 30th Ave. and visit them online at cart-driver.com.
Scott Durrah is a proud resident, chef, restaurateur and cannabis business owner in North Denver for 15 years. He previously owned Jezebel’s Southern Bistro and 8 Rivers, and currently owns Simply Pure.
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