Proto's Pizzeria Napoletana

This pizzeria opened its first restaurant in Longmont over ten years ago, with the stated mission of bringing true Neopolitan-style pizza to the Front Range. Now it's turned into a mini-chain, with several outposts in Colorado and Idaho. But the Platte Street location is the only one in Denver, and it's a beauty. Located in the strip of restaurants and shops that have turned Platte Street into a trendy neighborhood, the long, narrow spot has wooden floors, exposed beams, a swanky bar inlaid with intricate mosaic work and wine-bar lighting. Neighbors pack tables indoors and on the tiny patio, waiting for thin-crust pies that come from a brick oven imported from Rome and are perfect paired with offerings from the small but interesting wine list.