A few frigid Fridays ago I visited Table 6 for the first time.

This neighborhood restaurant is located at 6th and Corona, near the Esquire Theater. American Cuisine make up the majority of dishes with some different and fun diversions, like the “mini phillies” appetizer, (a dish of three small slider size philly cheesesteaks.)

For me the best part of this intimate space is the kitchen. Instead of being tucked away in the back, the kitchen here is an integral part of the experience. The open kitchen takes up about one third of the space, and is in full view of the diners. While sitting at the bar awaiting a table you can watch the crew prepare salads, haul plates in and out of large ovens, or scorch creme brulees with a gentle touch. For those who enjoy cooking, even if not to Fine Cooking standards, its a nice perk.

Its difficult for me to turn down a lamb dish, so naturally I had the special of lamb and dumplings in a jamon (ham) flavored sauce. Caleb ordered the fish and chips. Excellent and spicy batter, but I would have preferred a few more fish and a few less chips.

Locals and some holiday work parties made up most of the clientele, but on other nights you’ll encounter out-of-towners too as Table 6 has been recommended in several Denver guides including the New York Times.

Last week the Westword reviewed Table 6 . They lasted reviewed them in 2004, and this lastest story details 6′s ownership, history, and changes over the past few years, and how it maintains status as one of the highest rated restaurants in Denver.

They’re located at 609 Clarkson. Details, and some free recipes, at table6denver.com