Eleven Year Old Z Cuisine Shuttered in LoHi

The closest you could get to Paris in Denver was Z Cuisine, one of Eater's 38 Essential Restaurants. A classic neighborhood bistro, the restaurant owned by chef Patrick DuPays and his wife and partner Lynnde opened its doors in 2005 and quickly became a favorite of those who loved all things French. There was the great selection of wine and thoughtful cocktails, the amazing duck cassoulet or soup a l'oignon, but probably most important, there was the pace of the restaurant, reflective of a slower way of life. Z Cuisine was friendly, convivial, a place where art, good conversation, and human interaction could thrive.

DuPays has been vocal in his support for local produce, seasonal cooking, and organic ingredients. That meant having a fluctuating menu, taking many trips to the Boulder Farmers Market, and developing strong relationships with some of Colorado's best food and booze craftspeople.

A sign on the door at Z Cuisine and its website says that the restaurant located at 2239 W 30th Avenue is temporarily shuttered, maybe for several months (the phone message claims). DuPays did not return our call immediately. Reliable sources, however, tell us that the business as we knew it was sold.