Protein Bar

Protein Baris actually a fast-casual import from Chicago. The first opened in spring of 2014 in Boulder, but several others have cropped up in Denver since then. The healthy menu focuses on grilled "bar-ritos" stuffed with quinoa, chicken or tofu and a variety of veggies and sauces that trade in processed ingredients and fat for the latest superfoods -- think flax and chia seeds, kale, purple cabbage and Greek yogurt. Most options can be easily made vegan and even a hearty bowl of chili comes in chicken or vegetarian choices. It's a great lunch option for those busy days when you can't afford an afternoon letdown brought on by two-pound burritos or a pile of fries.