I wouldn’t normally find myself dining in a hotel restaurant. I’m not a fancy corporate type who takes business trips and fortunately am not required to hype sales pitches to clients in places like this. In fact I don’t even think I’ve ever stayed in a Hyatt. But we were told of a restaurant called “Altitude” in the new Hyatt downtown, (opened in ‘06,) and decided to check it out last week.

Architecturally this is how hotels should be built. Lots and lots of glass. Ok energy efficient glass, which connects the inside to the outside urban streetscapes. Too many hotels built during the 70s and 80s walled themselves off from the streets with thick concrete and few windows, unless you count the revolving doors. Whether on purpose or not, this design segregates visitors and guests from the rest of the city by sealing them up inside a closed environment. I remember visiting the Renaissance Center in Detroit as a kid. A massive complex of offices, hotel, and retail, however barely accessible from the outside. In later years I read about criticisms of such design resulting in more people friendly changes to the “Ren Cen” and similar structures.

The Hyatt showcases Denver’s energy and vibe from the inside as well as the outside. We sat aside the large three story windows inside this elegant room while we watched the people stroll by and light rail strains swoosh up the streets. After selecting a bottle of Pinot Grigio I enjoyed an entree of lobster filled ravioli and pasta. Chocolate chip ice cream sandwiched between two fresh baked cookies made for a rich dessert.

Of course you’d find more local flavor by finding a neighborhood just outside of downtown, or by checking out local restaurant and bar, but if Denver is your home and you want a vacation for just a few hours then try Altitude - one of the finer upscale places to dine.

Official site, and a review from the Cherry Creek News. Altitude is at 650 15th Street, downtown Denver.

by James Van Dellen