A Steakhouse with Vintage Vibes Joins Denver’s Restaurant Scene

Photo: Courtesy of Joni Schrantz for Carne

If you imagine a steakhouse with white tablecloths, wood paneling, and a clubby vibe, toss that vision out the window. Carne, a new restaurant in Denver’s RiNo neighborhood allows patrons to select a protein and side dish to build their own meal according to their seasoning and dietary preferences. The vintage 1970s décor, the friendly service, affordable menu choices, and sexy cocktails all add up to a superb experience. Dana “Loca” Rodriguez opened Carne last summer. (If you ask her about her nickname, she’ll gladly share the story.) 

Photo: Courtesy of Joni Schrantz for Carne

Born in Chihuahua, Mexico, Rodriguez grew up on a farm learning to butcher meats from her father, who was a cook. She started out as a restaurant dishwasher where she was exposed to a wide variety of new aromas and tastes. In her work as a chef at several high-end Denver restaurants, she was mentored by other acclaimed chefs.When Rodriguez opened her own establishment, she prioritized diverse appeal and unique flavors. A wine wall takes the place of a fussy wine menu enabling patrons to browse and select just the right bottle. “We want diners to come in, relax, and forget about everything else for a while.” she says.  

Photo: Courtesy of Joni Schrantz for Carne

A retro stereo system plays music on vinyl, and a vintage television reminds guests of their parents—or grandparents living room. A 1970s-style mural, painted by local artist, A.L Grime, is a focal point on the main and upper levels. A large patio is open for al fresco dining when weather permits. Diners shouldn’t miss the generous wine and beer selection, and the array of cocktails, including the Pisco Sour, Espresso Martini, and the horchata-based Panther’s Milk. Starters include Octopussy, a grilled achiote octopus with cannellini bean puree and olive tapenade that will make your mouth water. 

Photo: Courtesy of Joni Schrantz for Carne

Meat dishes include Colorado Lamb seasoned with umami rub and au poivre sauce, the Brazilian Picanha, a grilled sirloin cap steak with green chimichurri, and Italian Veal Osso Bucco with white wine, mustard, and rosemary. For those who avoid red meat, the Peruvian Pollo Asado is a half-chicken roasted with aji peppers served with salsa fresca, and the South American Roasted Fish with citrus-thyme mojo and horseradish are excellent choices.

Giving back is an important priority for Rodriguez. Carne supports charitable organizations including Latinas First, Safehouse, and Food Bank of the Rockies alongside other RiNo community initiatives. “Carne is a genuine labor of love designed to integrate the best of global cuisine presented to make our guests feel at home,” says Rodriguez.

Photo: Courtesy of Joni Schrantz for Carne

Photo: Courtesy of Joni Schrantz for Carne