Chocolate Lovers, Rejoice! Chocolate Lab Serves Chocolate for Dinner
If your sweet tooth is even slightly comparable to my own, and chocolate-eating could basically be considered your side job, then you are in luck, because Chocolate Lab has officially re-opened its doors. Chocolate Lab was started by Philip Simonsen years ago as just a truffle shop, after his now-husband gifted him some delicious homemade truffles for Valentine’s Day. Simonson, who was formerly a non-chocolate lover, was blown away by the truffles, and he knew that they needed to take these decadent chocolates to the next level. Together, they opened up Chocolate Lab truffle shop so that others could indulge in their unique confections as well. After some successful years in the chocolate business, the two decided that they couldn’t just stop at making truffles. The newly-renovated bar-restaurant, located in Denver’s City Park neighborhood, is now serving a full assortment of food and drink, all of which have some chocolate-related component riddled throughout. But don’t be mistaken; the entire menu actually is comprised of mostly savory selections, with sweetness from chocolate flakes or cocoa nibs serving primarily to enhance the flavors of the masterfully created dishes. Are you intrigued yet?
Upon entering the small cafe-restaurant, you’ll want to start off your meal at Chocolate Lab by wetting your palette with a S’moretini. This sweet cocktail is created with chocolate and coffee liquors, marshmallow vodka, and dusted with graham cracker crumbs. Or, you can opt for the Beer Ice Cream Float, which is sweet, bubbly, and delicious.
Chocolate Lab has a variety small plates, such as Medjool Dates (wrapped in bacon, stuffed wtih Grand Cru gruyere and drizzled with a chocolate balsamic), and Crispy Brussel Sprouts that are glazed in honey-chili, cocoa nibs and shredded mizithra cheese. These small bites will get your taste buds accustomed to the interesting pairing of savory food touched with the sweetness of chocolate that is a common theme throughout the menu. For your main course, do not miss the pulled pork sandwich, which consists of pulled pork that has been slow roasted for 18 hours. If you need further convincing, the pork is slathered in a bourbon-chocolate barbecue sauce, and topped with pickled onions and broccoli slaw. Other options include the Shrimp and Risotto, which is prepared with white chocolate and strawberry, and the espresso and cocoa rubbed Tenderoin. Decisions, decisions. Luckily, you can never really go wrong when chocolate of any form is involved.
If you attempt to leave the restaurant without taking home at least a couple of truffles, I guarantee that your attempt with fail. Truffles such as Pineapple Habañero and Drunken Onion routinely sell out due to popular demand, so select an assortment of truffles, toffees, and chocolate-covered nuts, and try not to eat them all on the way home.
I walked into this place with chocolate on my mind (as it is 90% of my waking hours), and with my enormous sweet tooth ready to be delighted, and I was not disappointed. Chocolate Lab is an innovative, and delicious bar-restaurant that you absolutely need to visit this summer for a unique and chocolaty meal. And let’s face it, where else are you going to find chocolate in your ravioli?
Chocolate Lab
2504 E Colfax Ave
Denver, CO 80206
(720) 536-5037
https://chocolatelabdenver.com/
