All The News That's Fit To Eat

\ Feb 02, 2006

3 min read

Go and Stop In at the Green Light Bistro—Taking yet another savory step towards vegetarian world domination, Annapurna just opened an organic, all-vegetarian restaurant, called the Green Light Bistro (2209 Silver SE, 254-0100). It's easy to forget that just a few months ago, this tiny casita in the newly designated “Brick Light District” was a dark and fragrant bakery storeroom, packed clear to the ceiling with exotic spices. Now, it's a cozy café that's as cheery and bright as a cup of their Silver Street organic coffee.

You'll find the Green Light by passing through a sunny courtyard patio to the east of Annapurna and the Silver Board Skate Shop, right off of Silver. The setup is similar to Annapurna's: Just walk right up to the front counter, place your order and have a seat. There's a full drink menu posted on the front wall, and it's loaded with espresso drinks, juices and other fun stuff. (Never had oat milk? You can give it a try here for about $2 a glass.) A peek into the Green Light bakery case reveals a collection of classic scones, cookies and cakes with some interesting dietary twists. Most are gluten-free, and more than a few are completely vegan.

The lunch menu is composed mostly of pastas, salads and sandwiches. We like the ABC sandwich, which stacks avocado, crispy tempeh bacon, tomato and vegan cheese between slices of fresh spelt bread. Happily, portions are just right when rounded out with a mound of perky tossed greens and, believe it or not, french fries.

I was a little sad we missed the cutoff for breakfast when we went, because the menu looked so appealing. I guess I'll just have to come back between 8 and 11 a.m. for the veggie sausage, homemade granola and wheat-free blueberry pancakes. The Green Light Bistro is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Dish

Say Goodbye to Big John’s BBQ—After giving it a go in the old Café Broadway/Maximitos building at 606 Broadway SE, Big John's BBQ has closed. Big John's tender brisket and ass-kicking Texas toast live on, though: His mobile barbecue truck was last spotted at the intersection of Coors and Rio Bravo. You know he'll make an appearance at the State Fair this year, too. It's just too bad the old Café Broadway/Maximitos is haunted by failed restaurants. Who's next?

The Dish

And While We're on the Subject of Barbecue—Geezamboni's (3851 Rio Grande NW, 345-3354) has changed its name to JohnDhi's BBQ. Other than that, it's business as usual. JohnDhi's is still owned by John Nellos (direct descendant of Quarters' barbecue tribe), and frankly, it still has a funky name that's as much of a mouthful as their lip-smackin' ribs.