Del Frisco's Grille Sets Sights on Early November Opening in Cherry Creek

Nearly three years have passed since Del Frisco's Restaurant Group broke ground in Cherry Creek for a new Del Fisco's Grille, the more casual sibling to the company's Double Eagle Steakhouse brand. But opening day is within sight, if a little tenuous; regional manager Kim Owens says the doors should open on November 11.

The opening marks a definite pattern of upscale national chains setting up shop in the neighborhood, with the Thirsty Lion, Matsuhisa, Departure and Sol Cocina also in the works. And although the Del Frisco group is known for steaks, the menu — which Owens describes as "classic with a comfort-food twist" — and price point will be more in competition with the Cherry Creek Grill and Hillstone than with Elway's.

Del Frisco's certainly has every intention of grabbing a big chunk of Cherry Creek's dining crowd; the restaurant space is massive, with room for 250 guests in the main dining room and bar, plus another 45 to 50 on the rooftop deck. There are also two separate private-dining spaces: one for large groups and one for intimate groups of eight or fewer — set into a wood-paneled grotto with a low, curved ceiling.

The decor takes its cue from the Colorado surroundings, with plenty of natural wood accents and red flagstone. Two wine walls bookend the main dining room, one of which will soar two storied above diners and feature 500 bottles.

Once the eatery opens, it will be open daily for lunch and dinner, with weekend brunch also in the works.