For some traditional-contemporary American fare, or a taste of something on the other side of the globe, walk in to Linger. A variety of innovative dishes, including Morocco and Turkey, the menu's got something for everybody. The restaurant also has a kids menu, with just a few dishes on it, but appealing enough for any child. With the place mostly crowded, it could get a little loud. The best thing is that however crowded, you rarely see the service go down.

Though some people might complaint about the loads of plastic being used here, Sushi Sasa does come highly recommended for anyone who would like a delightful sushi meal. Apart from the traditional sushi, you will also find several innovative dishes that use exotic fish, prepared in Japanese style. The restaurant menu features an excellent sake and wine list.

In 1934, Denver's most notorious family, the Smalldones opened up an eatery in the North Side to become the heart of both Italian cuisine and an illicit operation. While drawing the neighborhood's attention to their famous pasta, they also drew the attention from police as Denver's only mafia operated in the basement. It's not quite the hoodlum hangout as it used to be as the Smalldone Empire has fallen and Denver's mayor bought Gaetano's, but the food hasn't changed and Chauncy Smalldone still stops by for lunch. Open Monday to Saturday 11am onwards.

In the 1930s, Patsy's served as a centerpiece to North Denver's Italian community. Little has changed. With authentic Italian food, homemade pasta and an atmosphere in which Sinatra would feel at home, Patsy's brings old world charm at reasonable prices. There's a great menu, but to fully experience Patsy's, ask for the giant meatballs and chocolate drizzled cannoli to follow it up.

One taste of their Chilean Baked Empanada and you'll see why Sabor Latino has become one of North Denver's favorite restaurants. Catch the live flamenco guitarist on Wednesdays or the chef's special Paella dinner on Friday and Saturday nights. With a wide selection of fine South American wines, Sabor Latino offers a casual or romantic setting both inside and on their outside patio. Remember to leave room for flan.

With Blue Corn Griddle Cakes, Shrimp Burritos and fresh made guacamole, North Denver was blessed with the arrival of Julia Blackbird's New Mexican Café. It began with only a few tables and Julia cooking with the wisdom of her Spanish, Mexican and Native American roots to create a delicious fusion of tastes, but North Denver loved it so much that before too long she had to move down the street to a new and stylishly decorated location with outside seating to cool you off after her homemade salsa. Julia offers vivid New Mexican art, spicy flavors and daring recipes for an adventurous culinary experience.

Chef Patrick DuPays applies his creative streak to his preparations, and most patrons are more than satisfied with the result. This charming bistro-cum-creperie allows you to stuff yourself with the likes of Foie Gras de Canard en terrine Maison - duck foie gras marinated in wine and baked in terrine and salade de chevre chaud - warm goat cheese on toast over fresh pesto and lettuce salad. The pork and cassoulet are other dishes of repute. Make sure you grab a bagful of breads, pancakes and pastries on your way out. What makes the joint different from others in its genre is the interactive staff and the value for money. Come and experience authentic French cuisine without unnecessary frills!

Specializing in Coastal Mexican fare, Lola offers an array of traditionally prepared dishes - from Ceviches and Smoked Duck Gorditas, to Whole Grilled Fish and Carne Asada smothered in dark molé. You can call the guacamole cart over to your table and get a whiff of the fresh tortillas, rich sauces and fiery chilies. Tequilas glow in the candlelight as margaritas are shaken to perfection. Check the website for opening hours.

Even after a much-needed renovation, the Rosa Linda Café still has the tawdry charm that regulars have come to expect. The coats of paint did not displace the murals and paintings that create such ambiance. The place is still family-operated with love and care. The award-winning shredded beef burritos highlight the menu and the green chili elevates Mexican grub into an art form (not to be compared with that on the walls), making the chili rellenos another delight. It rates as extremely family-friendly.

Before fancy buzzwords entered the Italian restaurant marketing scheme there were simply basic meatball, tomato sauce, and pasta dishes made with the freshest ingredients and lots of amore. Pagliacci's has spent over three generations carefully crafting the art of traditional Italian favorites in an authentic bistro brimming with old world charm and romance. Besides plenty of pasta options the menu also features veal piccatta, baked trout, shrimp scampi and more. Weekends can be crowded so call ahead for reservations. Open at five on Tuesday to Saturday and open at four on Sunday.