There's a new development going up at 2601 Larimer Street in Ballpark/River North, and it's called, appropriately enough, 2601 Larimer. It will feature 20,000 square feet of office, retail and restaurant space -- that's the important part -- and last night 2601 threw a neighborhood party to introduce its concept and showcase the food of several upcoming eateries. In addition to samples of ramen, burgers and spicy southern Indian fare, as well as local booze from nearby wineries and breweries, the event dished out plenty of restaurant news.

See also: Photos: Cart-Driver Arrives in Denver

In the midst of live jazz music, blazing fire pits to combat the chill and a fair amount of glad-handing, one new restaurant name emerged. Sushi-Rama is the first eatery to hang a banner on the building, but hopefully not the last. An opening date is likely several months out, as the space is still bare concrete.

Other news came not from the new development, but from anticipated neighborhood restaurants that were serving samples to hungry guests. Biju's Little Curry Shop, a fast-casual southern Indian eatery from chef-owner Biju Thomas, and the new Park Burger are both expecting to open before the end of the year, while Osaka Ramen, from Denver favorite Jeff Osaka (of the sadly closed Twelve) is aiming for January. Soon-to-open Zephyr Brewing Co. was also there, pouring pale ale.

You may have noticed a trend here: Those three restaurants and Zephyr Brewing are all opening at 2601 Walnut Street, not 2601 Larimer. The connection is that both addresses are projects of real estate entrepreneur Ari Stutz. Between the two 2601s, this neighborhood is fast becoming the hottest restaurant zone in the city.

Other RiNo food vendors on hand were Yours Truly Cupcake, with boozy cupcakes and s'mores, and Carniceria Jalisco, which served traditional street tacos to a chilled but enthusiastic crowd.

---

Follow @CafeWestword