Maria Empanada Gets the Thumbs Up; Block & Larder Leaves Room For Improvement

William Porter of the Denver Post gave Maria Empanada two and a half stars in this week's restaurant review. The homey Argentine restaurant in Platt Park brings authentic atmosphere and cuisine with "flavors as big as Argentina." Porter's review highlighted two different items with the first being the "standout" tartas, otherwise know as "deep-dish quiches" in mushroom and spinach versions. Noted second were the "must order" beef empanadas that channel Argentina's highly prided upon ingredient. Porter concluded with a spirited "Ole to that" in admiration of the restaurant.

Westword's Gretchen Kurtz shared mixed if not most negative feelings in her review of Block & Larder. The critic enjoyed the bar scene at the new Berkeley spot, but was not impressed with the food. From the plating on extra large dishes to a panzanella salad made with entirely out-of-season tomatoes, Kurtz continued to be disappointed in the food created by the group who also owns the popular Freshcraft.