We went here for my partner's birthday while we were on vacation. First and foremost I want to…read moreapplaud their safety efforts. Tables were appropriately distanced, and seating was exclusively outdoors when we went, thus reducing any chance of spreading any contaminated air particles. Staff wore masks, and as guests were were instructed to wear masks when getting up AND when talking with staff. As an Ohioan resident, the latter is not implemented, but honestly I wish it was. Restaurant staff need to be protected as well.
The server brought us complimentary housemate beverages to begin the evening, an unexpected added bonus (which were deliciously refreshing, if I remember correctly, made from a grapefruit base). All staff was convivial, friendly, and easygoing.
The food was next-level. Granted, this is a moderately upscale dining experience, despite the casual, down to earth ambiance that is quintessentially Colorado. The focaccia was fresh and perfectly balanced in that slight give, the crunchy exterior, and soft and oily interior. I'm partial to burrata above a lot of cheese options, especially with focaccia, and this didn't disappoint. The fennel pesto and nasturtium helped to lift the otherwise indulgent starter.
The charcuterie board was well plated, offered a wide variety of flavors and textures, leaning on the sharper side of flavors, feeling a little French (as its namesake).
The star of the show was the wagyu. With no exaggeration I will proclaim that this was the best cut of meat I have ever consumed. The perimeter had a nice salty crisp to it, the interior was juicy, flavorful, a melt in your mouth, no knife needed experience. I was viscerally taken aback. And each bite was like the first. Paired with the market fresh tomatoes, black garlic aioli, and shallot, the acidity, warmth, umami, and herbaceous boxes were all checked. Simply fantastic. My partner, a more frequent meat eater stated that this was the best meat he had eaten in over a decade.
Last but certainly not least, we finished the night with their seasonal vanilla cherry bombe. Aesthetically pleasing Bavarian cream and dacquoise with poached cherries and vanilla cherry sauce. A nice subtle finish to the meal, if a little homogeneous. I would suggest a little citrus acid in the cherry sauce, and maybe some more incorporation of cherries throughout the dish.
Overall, one of the best parts of our vacation. I recommend this place to anyone looking for a moderately priced meal. Fans of rich flavor and fine cuisine, without the pretentiousness that sometimes come with fine dining, reserve a table at Blackbelly for dinner.