One of my newest clients is not only keeping me busy, but introducing me to a whole new world of Mexican food. Paxia Authentic Mexican Cuisine, located in Denver's Sunnyside neighborhood, offers real Mexican fare - the kind that dates back centuries and includes such traditional dishes as Tlacoyos (oval-shaped masa and black bean cakes topped with pear cactus, jalapeno, tomato and onion) and Molcajetes (a mouth-watering stew that I've been dreaming about since I first tasted it, made with tomatoes, garlic, jalapenos, onions and either fish, meat or a mixture of both). Open since August 2011, Paxia is the brainchild of brothers Cesar, Roberto and Igancio Leon, who started the Los Carbonitos chain of taquerias in 2004.

Paxia is like Los Carbonitos' sophisticated sister, providing gourmet Mexican food in a stylish, yet comfortable atmosphere, complete with a tequila lounge and inviting patio. And the restaurant is starting to gain new fans. Denver Post Features Writer Bill Porter just gave Paxia a glowing review.

If you haven't tried Paxia, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the Leon family's culinary talents.  On February 9th, the restaurant is offering a preview of its Denver Restaurant Week menu, which includes its special "lamb barbacoa" entree. The dish, which is slow roasted after soaking for hours in a chili marinade, will become a permanent part of the menu every weekend, starting March 10th.



For Valentine's Day, the restaurant is offering a four-course Prix Fixe meal (featuring a mix of Mexican mainstays - Carne Asada, for example, as well as more contemporary creations), served with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine for $50 per person.



The restaurant's Happy Hour also provides a chance to sample Paxia's unique menu at discounted prices. Available daily from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and again from 9 to close, Paxia's Happy Hour includes drink specials as well as tamales, tacos, oysters, and Ceviche. Paxia is open for lunch daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and serves dinner from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until midnight on Friday and Saturday.



To make reservations for Valentine's Day or Denver Restaurant Week, call 720-583-6860.
For more information, visit www.paxiadenver.com or follow the restaurant on Facebook.