If winter finds you tiring of root vegetable monotony, stop in at Arugula Bar & Ristorante for chef-owner Alec Schuler’s vibrant dishes. Start with the silky house-made Vin Santo pâté where Schuler blends Grant Family Farms‘ chicken livers with a touch of sweet Vin Santo wine. The pâté’s richness is balanced by an acidic arugula salad and sweet roasted figs. Charred slices of ciabatta add just the needed crunch.

Move on to the Long Family Farm pork tenderloin (pictured) topped with spiced apples and grappa sauce—and pair it with seared polenta (you’ll leave thinking about the side’s golden brown crust and softly herby interior). Finish on a bright, springy note with the ethereal lemon pudding cake—a virtual cloud of lemon goodness topped with whipped cream and slices of fresh strawberry.

Tip: Watch for Arugula’s regular wine dinners, which feature innovative, locally inspired menus paired with regional Italian vintages.

2785 Iris Ave., Boulder, 303-443-5100