THE FRONT

4.75 STARS

1670 E. CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN BLVD., 80906; 527-0171; THEFRONTCS.COM

When you walk through the door, you think you’re in a typical take-out pizza joint. But if you want to eat in, you’re led through a door marked “Private” to find a snug, stylish dining room. The pizzas are fantastic, the pasta is delicious and the desserts are mostly made on the premises.

DISHES NOT TO MISS: Quattro Stagioni pizza ($9.60/$15), chicken Parmesan ($16)

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)

MB.PARTLOW@GAZETTE.COM

The Front Restaurant Thursday March 6, 2014. Photo by Jeff Kearney

Jeff Kearney