As we have more and more sunny weekends, I launch into brunch mode and the first of the season was Avelina Denver. Avelina in downtown Denver opened its doors last fall and started doing brunch on weekends a little while after that. Though I don’t typically order appetizers during brunch these Nettle Fritters sounded too good. Ham and gruyere cheese made up the fritters and were accompanied by roasted pepper hummus and pickled red onion. Though fried, these fritters were relatively light and did not ruin the items to come. The roasted pepper hummus was also excellent and I’m hoping to make a replicate!
We started out with some breakfast cocktails: Beer for Breakfast and a traditional Bloody Mary. The Beer for Breakfast had Odell’s Cutthroat Porter, Old Overholt (whiskey), cold press coffee and maple syrup. This beer cocktail was tasty. It was well balanced and easy to drink for a morning beer cocktail. There was that slight taste of whiskey and then smooth, creamy beer.
We also went with the traditional Bloody Mary with “Sarah’s” jalapeño, carrot and dill pickle infused vodka. I forgot to ask the reference to Sarah but I assume the infused vodka was created/inspired by her. It was nothing unique but a good standard bloody. It was garnished with cheese, an olive, and a fresno pepper. Those fresno peppers were delicious!
We shared two entrees: the Spicy Pork Shoulder and Shrimp & Grits. The addition of two poached eggs transformed the Shrimp & Grits from a lunch food to a breakfast dish. I enjoyed the addition of the hot sauce but also thought the dish could have been a little more creamy and flavorful.
The Spicy Pork Shoulder was mixed in with crispy fingerlings and cheddar sauce, and then topped with a sunny side egg. This breakfast dish was so good! The cheddar sauce added flavor without being too heavy for the dish. The pork was delicious and the crispy fingerlings were a great combination. It was definitely a filling dish but we really enjoyed it.
I am one of those people who like to brunch near where I live (aren’t we all?). I don’t often head downtown but after enjoying Avelina’s Pork Shoulder and Beer for Breakfast, I’m a easy arm twist away.
Cheers!
Avelina Denver
Location: Downtown Denver
Favorite Breakfast Plate: Spicy Pork Shoulder
Favorite Cocktail: Beer for Breakfast
Disclaimer: I was invited into this restaurant and the food and drinks were complimentary. All opinions are my own.
More To Love:
Racca’s Pizza
Humboldt Denver
