Colterra Restaurant

Spontaneous turns Sumptuous

After sampling and purchasing at Cheese Importer’s and Old Fashioned Bavarian Bakery in Longmont my friend Pat asked if I wanted to have lunch. Do I ever decline lunch with a friend? We decided to drive to Niwot and find a restaurant. We found Subway, Mexican, Chinese and pizza restaurants – nothing hit a nerve. Pat kept driving, turned on a side street, and spotted a charming old house with picket fence. We parked the car and marched into Colterra.

From the immediate greeting and seating to the first look at the dining room this felt like we’d made the right choice. Our waiter quickly appeared with water and a description of today’s specials – delivered with eye contact and an engaging smile. Pat selected linguini bolognese while I decided on the risotto of the day. We relaxed and admired the dining room over crusty bread and our drink order.

The risotto with mushrooms and Parmesan was topped with a grilled chicken breast. The rice the perfect texture and balance of flavors. I’m easily bored with chicken breast, however this was excellent quality, cooked just right. I soon decided I was eating the entire entree, nothing was going home for later. Pat reported her bolognese delightful, “I could go in the kitchen and lick the pan.”

Colterra’s ambiance, service, food – a sumptuous discovery.

Colterra Food & Wine, chef/owner Bradford Heap, 210 Franklin St., Niwot, Colorado, 303-6652-0777. Serves lunch Monday – Friday, dinner Monday – Saturday, brunch Saturday & Sunday, Sunday Supper.