Sabor Latino Restaurant

With so many new places to eat all around town, it is difficult for any restaurant to set itself apart and provide a product that keeps customers coming back. It is especially difficult when a restaurant is located off the beaten path and just a short drive from other popular establishments. Located at 35th and Tennyson in a quiet, Denver neighborhood, Sabor Latino conquers all those challenges serving a truly unique cuisine in a clean, nicely decorated bistro.

They refer to it as South American Cuisine or Latin American Cuisine, but there are still some familiar Mexican dishes on the menu as well. Alongside the South American empanadas, ceviche and paella, you will also find enchiladas, burritos and tamales. The Tamales Colombianos, (available in a vegetarian version), are a signature dish wrapped in plantain or banana leaves and make a nice stepping stone for diners unfamiliar with Central American foods. Every item on the menu is done well and diners enjoy the slightly different spicing that contributes to the uniqueness of this place.

Sabor Latino is especially proud of its Paella, but, being vegetarian, I have never tried it. Dinner guests who tried it, however, loved the blend of flavors and the ample portions. I am particularly fond of the restaurant’s cozy location and the many vegetarian options on the menu. Sabor Latino is one restaurant whose vegetarian variations are truly vegetarian. They actually prepare separate vegetarian versions of popular dishes instead of just picking the meat out of meat dishes and calling that vegetarian. Their vegetarian version of the Colombian Tamales makes them one of the few restaurants in the area I know of actually offering vegetarian tamales of any kind on their menu.

Adding to the South American flavor of the restaurant are the signature drinks and wines. They serve great Cuban influenced Mojitos that are only $4.00 during happy hour. As for the wines, many South American wines compliment the cuisine well and Sabor Latino stocks those including Malbec from Argentina and Chilean wines from the vineyards of Concha Y Toro.

With dishes priced in the $10 to $20 range and most under $15, it is a nice change of pace without being too different or too expensive. It is also relatively close to The Denver Victorian Theatre for a nice dinner and a show combo. The next time you are in the old Elitch neighborhood or near Parisi, give this little, out of the way restaurant a thought and a try. From my experience, you will be pleased with your choice and enjoy an exceptional meal.