Two weeks ago, I had the distinct pleasure of co-hosting an unforgettable Denver brunch event alongside the incredible team from Food Should Taste Good. This gathering was more than just a meal; it was a vibrant celebration of culinary artistry, community spirit, and the unparalleled joy that defines Denver’s brunch culture. Join us as we relive the exquisite flavors, memorable moments, and extraordinary highlights that made this “Best of Brunch” event truly exceptional, offering a deep dive into the heart of Denver’s vibrant food scene and the delightful partnership that brought it all to life.
Denver: A City Where Brunch is a Way of Life
In the Mile-High City, brunch isn’t merely a meal; it’s a cherished weekend ritual, a ceremony of sorts that Denverites embrace with unparalleled enthusiasm. Every Saturday and Sunday, locals flock to their favorite eateries, seeking comfort, culinary adventure, and camaraderie. Whether it’s indulging in fluffy chicken and waffles, savoring a perfectly smothered breakfast burrito, or sipping a zesty Bloody Mary on a sun-drenched patio with panoramic views of the majestic Rocky Mountains to the west, there’s no wrong way to experience the magic of brunch in Denver. This vibrant tradition underscores the city’s lively culinary landscape and its residents’ passion for good food and great company, making it the perfect setting for our special event.
Lola Denver: The Perfect Culinary Canvas
This spectacular brunch event unfolded at one of my absolute favorite culinary gems in town: Lola Coastal Mexican. Nestled in a bustling Denver neighborhood, Lola is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, innovative menu, and a deep commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. More than just a Mexican restaurant, Lola offers a delightful escape with its focus on exquisite fresh seafood, an array of festive, handcrafted cocktails that perfectly complement any meal, and the theatrical delight of table-side guacamole preparation, which is always a crowd-pleaser. However, what truly sets Lola apart, especially for brunch enthusiasts, is its legendary brunch burger – arguably the best this side of the Mississippi. Its dynamic menu and lively ambiance made Lola the quintessential venue to showcase its signature brunch dishes, elevated by thoughtful pairings with Food Should Taste Good chips and snacks, creating an unforgettable sensory experience for all our guests.
A Harmonious Partnership: Food Should Taste Good
Our collaboration with Food Should Taste Good was a natural fit, rooted in a shared philosophy of quality ingredients and exceptional flavor. Food Should Taste Good has long been celebrated for its commitment to creating delicious, wholesome snacks made with real, simple ingredients. Their diverse range of tortilla chips, crafted from unique blends like olive oil, sweet potato, and jalapeño, offers a perfect balance of crunch, flavor, and texture. These versatile chips are not just snacks; they are culinary companions that enhance any dish, making them ideal for creative pairings. By bringing together Lola’s innovative Mexican brunch fare and Food Should Taste Good’s distinctive chips, we aimed to demonstrate how simple, high-quality ingredients can elevate a dining experience, introducing guests to new flavor profiles and inspiring them to explore gourmet snacking at home.
The Event Unfolds: A Journey Through Flavors
Welcoming Guests with Sips and Savory Snacks
As our esteemed guests arrived, they were immediately immersed in a warm and inviting atmosphere, kicking off what promised to be an extraordinary culinary journey. The air buzzed with excitement and anticipation as attendees mingled, enjoying an exquisite assortment of crafted cocktails, expertly prepared to awaken the palate. Alongside these refreshing beverages, a lavish smorgasbord of Food Should Taste Good chips was artfully displayed, each variety thoughtfully paired with a selection of vibrant, house-made salsas. This initial spread was designed to tantalize the taste buds and set the stage for the feast to come. While every pairing proved to be a delightful revelation, the consensus favorite among our guests was undeniably the delicate yet flavorful olive oil chips served with Lola’s renowned, freshly prepared guacamole. The creamy richness of the avocado, brightened with lime and cilantro, found its perfect counterpoint in the crisp, subtly flavored chips, creating an irresistible start to our Denver brunch celebration.
My (Slightly Embarrassing) Opening Remarks
Following the initial greetings and delicious introductions, it was my turn to step into the spotlight and offer opening remarks, welcoming 35 bright-eyed strangers to our “Best of Brunch” event. I recall a moment of nervous excitement, where I think I might have rambled on for a good couple of minutes, my hands gesturing wildly like a conductor mid-symphony, or perhaps just a very enthusiastic, slightly overwhelmed host. In an attempt to break the ice and inject a touch of personal humor, I even recounted an amusing, albeit slightly embarrassing, story about an ill-fated attempt to sauté two solid pieces of swordfish steaks in a skillet overflowing with oil, narrowly avoiding setting my kitchen ablaze. Looking back, I sincerely hope it went smoothly, and that my self-deprecating humor landed well. Or perhaps, as is often the case with such moments, it all played out perfectly only in my head!
First Course Delights: A Taste of Yucatan
Despite my humorous opening, I survived the public speaking challenge and smoothly transitioned to introducing Chef Kevin of Lola, who then graciously took the stage to describe our eagerly anticipated first course. Chef Kevin’s passion for flavor and fresh ingredients was evident as he detailed the exquisite options available to our guests. Attendees had a choice between the classic Lola Huevos, a traditional favorite brimming with authentic Mexican flavors, or the intriguing Yucatan Breakfast. I, personally, opted for the latter, drawn in by its unique combination of scrambled eggs, perfectly fried plantains offering a hint of sweetness, fluffy rice, savory beans, a kick of molasses hot sauce, and the irresistible crunch of Food Should Taste Good Jalapeño Tortilla Chips. This vibrant dish was a symphony of textures and tastes, with the spicy notes of the jalapeño chips providing a fantastic counterpoint to the rich, savory components of the Yucatan Breakfast, making it a truly memorable start to our multi-course brunch.
Second Course Highlights: From Burgers to Waffles
For our second course, Chef Kevin and the Lola team presented another trio of tantalizing choices, each designed to showcase the breadth of their brunch menu and the versatility of our Food Should Taste Good pairings. Guests could choose the legendary Lolaburguesa – a truly remarkable creation widely lauded as the best burger in Denver. This culinary masterpiece was paired with the vibrant and tangy Food Should Taste Good Guacamole Tortilla Chips, the creamy avocado flavor perfectly complementing the savory burger. Alternatively, there were the delightful Butternut Squash Pancakes, offering a sweet and autumnal flavor profile, or the classic Southern comfort of chicken and waffles. Given my mood for a delectable blend of salty and sweet, I opted for the chicken and waffles. The crispy, perfectly seasoned fried chicken alongside the fluffy, golden waffles, drizzled with syrup, provided a harmonious balance that was utterly satisfying. Each option truly demonstrated Lola’s culinary prowess and the thoughtful integration of our snack partners.
A Sweet Finale: Cinnamon Dusted Doughnuts
To conclude our magnificent brunch experience, a sweet finale arrived that delighted every palate: Lola’s house-made cinnamon-dusted doughnuts. These warm, fluffy pillows of perfection were the ultimate indulgence, offering a comforting sweetness and a fragrant spice that provided a perfect capstone to our multi-course meal. Light, airy, and coated in just the right amount of aromatic cinnamon sugar, they left a lasting impression, proving that no great brunch is complete without a touch of something decadent and delightful. The dessert truly encapsulated the spirit of Lola’s culinary excellence and provided a sweet memory for all our guests.
Reflections: A Heartwarming Denver Community Gathering
And just like that, the “Best of Brunch” event drew to a close. It was an absolute blast from start to finish! The entire experience was incredibly heartwarming, filled with genuine connections and shared passions. Meeting Chef Kevin, whose culinary artistry truly shone through each dish, was an honor. Beyond that, I had the pleasure of connecting with so many wonderful individuals – fellow food bloggers, passionate foodies, and dedicated readers from within the vibrant Denver community. These interactions enriched the event, turning it into a true celebration of local talent and shared love for exceptional food. My heartfelt gratitude goes out to everyone who came out to support and participate in this special gathering. And a profound, special thank you is extended to Lola Coastal Mexican for their impeccable hospitality and sensational menu, and to Food Should Taste Good for their invaluable partnership and delicious contributions that elevated every moment of our Denver brunch event.
Explore More Denver Brunch Spots
For those living in or visiting Denver, don’t let the brunch magic end here! I highly recommend checking out our comprehensive Denver brunch guide. It’s packed with recommendations for the best spots across the city, ensuring you can continue your culinary adventures and discover more incredible brunch experiences. Happy brunching, my friends, and may your weekends always be filled with delicious food and good company!
***This post was sponsored by Food Should Taste Good. As always, all opinions expressed are 100% my own. Pictures were provided by Food Should Taste Good, and I also captured some moments with my iPhone.***
In conclusion, our “Best of Brunch” event in Denver was a resounding success and a true celebration of culinary excellence. From the exquisite flavors and thoughtful pairings to the vibrant atmosphere and heartwarming community connections, every aspect contributed to an unforgettable experience. Cheers to the enduring essence of brunch perfection, and to many more delightful culinary adventures in Denver!