IVY’S CHINESE CAFE

3.75 stars

11550 Ridgeline Drive, Suite 120, 80921; 487-8088, 487-8099, ivyschinesecafe.com

In one of the strip malls on the north edge of town is a little Chinese restaurant called Ivy’s Chinese Cafe. Spanking new and sparkling clean, this little cafe serves up generous portions of all the standard American Chinese favorites, with a heaping helping of good cheer and excellent service.

DISHES NOT TO MISS: Buddha Delight ($7.95), curry chicken ($8.95)

ALCHEMY

3.75 stars

2625 W. Colorado Ave., 80904;

471-0887, alchemypubcolorado.com

Alchemy presents a gruff facade when you step inside, with exposed timber and brick walls in a pub atmosphere. The vibe is loud and rollicking when the regulars roll in, or funky and friendly on a quieter afternoon. The food is upscale pub, with some definite hits (most of the sandwiches) and some dishes that have room for improvement.

DISHES NOT TO MISS: Slaughterhouse ($12), Forager ($9), creme brule ($7), flourless chocolate cake ($7)

HEART OF JERUSALEM CAFE

3.25 stars

4587 Austin Bluffs Parkway, 80916 (second location in Manitou Springs), 685-9554; heartof jerusalemcafe.com

The Heart of Jerusalem location near Doherty High School is a cozy, casual little nook. The fare is hearty comfort food, with sandwiches and platters highlighting Mediterranean flavors like garlic, lemon and olive oil. Service is fairly quick, although it slows down as the restaurant fills. DISHES NOT TO MISS: Manakeesh ($4.99), falafel platter ($7.99), babaganooj ($7.99)

MBPARTLOW@GAZETTE.COM

Ivy’s Chinese Restaurant Thursday February 27, 2014. Photo by Jeff Kearney

Jeff Kearney