First, I recognize the irony or offensiveness of highlighting a vegetarian restaurant following a post picturing a giant ham. But lovers of ham, steaks and meats can appreciate good vegan cooking right?

Saving the leftover ham for this week’s lunches we dined at Watercourse Foods Friday. Watercourse is one of the few vegetarian restaurants in Denver. Their original location on 13th Avenue still houses the Watercourse Bakery and the adjacent “City O’ City” coffee shop, but their location on 17th Street is an impressive and so far successful venture as a large, modern and happening, well-known establishment.

I’ve seen Watercourse and the multiple bikes out front when visiting JR’s or the gourmet food shop Marzyck’s – all located at 17th and Clarkson, but Friday was my first time inside. The Black Friday sales and fistfights must have been winding down early because at 11am I was surprised to find the place packed. We waited about 15 minutes and were soon seated.

Entering you find a coffee bar for folks who just want coffee, tea, muffins, or desserts. The large “L” shaped dining area is a brightly light and cheerful space colored in yellows, blues, and earth toned paintings. The interior was far larger than I expected.

Caleb had the Po Boy – a portobello mushroom sandwich with chipotle and coleslaw, and I had “The Dickens” – a romaine and leaf lettuce salad with seitan, onion rings, butternut squash, in maple dijon dressing. There’s a large selection of pasta dishes, and a full beer and wine menu.

The atmosphere was festive even on this overcast day. Although busy the staff was happy, cheerful, and gave us individual attention.  And even during the rush the owner Dan stopped by our table to chat and hear our opinions as first timers. If you’re in Denver and searching for a lively centrally located restaurant with good healthy food check them out. Like myself you don’t have to be a vegetarian to appreciate their fine offerings.

Menu and location at watercoursefoods.com