LoHi translates to the lower Highlands. Just across from the walking bridge downtown, wander over for some great food. You can drive there too. And then take some time in the Highlands on 32nd near Lowell.

Masterpiece Delicatessen

1575 Central St.
Denver
720-422-8387
Price Range: $-$$
Reservations: No
Cuisine: Deli

Who would believe that a delicatessen could bring so much fanfare and fun to Denver diners? It's true if you head over to Masterpiece Delicatessen. It's in a red building-you won't miss it, small with huge windows and few tables inside and a great patio. You'll find cases of food from which to choose and some fun groceries on shelves along the wall. The kitchen is in full view and that's where it all starts.

Owners and staff are formally trained chefs from Denver upscale eateries but decided the way to go was just casual fare with super sandwiches, salads and desserts. Gourmet grilled cheese with add-ons of applewood smoked bacon, marinated tomato or onion, or saut?ed wild mushrooms. Sounds divine, but wait, there's so much more: 12 hour braised brisket, house-cured gravlox, and Cubano please all. Don't miss a cup of soup or the array of salads from arugula, spinach to Cobb, and Greek.

Breakfast is a meal not to pass up. And desserts are all made in house. Lots of great coffee drinks, smoothies, juices and more complement the food. There's not much more to say, other than Masterpiece Delicatessen rocks and is the most popular new addition in town.

Don't miss: truffled egg salad sandwich; the Reuben.

Lola Coastal Mexican Cuisine

1575 Boulder St.
720-570-8686
Off Federal Blvd.
Price Range: $$-$$$
Reservations: Yes
Cuisine: Mexican, seafood

You can't miss Lola, it's the place where the people are hanging out on the patio enjoying drinks while their dogs, whose leashes are attached to special patio-side hooks, lap up water. Enter the space, and notice the huge bar that is crowded with happy fans who gather to drink, eat or wait for a table in the dining area. The dining room features an open kitchen with comfortable seating at booths and wooden tables. Bright colors and artifacts on the walls set the scene.

Start with guacamole, prepared tableside in mild, medium or hot, duck carnitas,and the lobster quesadilla. And sip on a margarita, sangria, wine or beer from the excellent list. Banana crusted snapper, diver scallops with chili bbq, crispy green pumpkin fritter and casabel chile cream, garlic shrimp, and lobster pot pie are musts, or enjoy grilled strip steak with mole.

Service shines. The noise level is very high but the spirit and fun that the diners experience make Lola the place to be. Their Saturday and Sunday brunch is one of the best in town.

Don't miss: avocado fondue; grilled whole fish.

More Restaurant Choices:

Downtown, near Convention activities
Lower Downtown (LoDo)
Lower Highlands (LoHi)
Cherry Creek
6th Avenue
17th Avenue
Morrison, Boulder and other areas