Danielle Lirette
720-379-8340
This RiNo restaurant's name pays homage to Denver’s own Chinese history: Hop Alley was the once-thriving Chinatown that was burned down during riots in the 1880s. But the cooking — like the sleek, hip-hop-infused restaurant — is all modern. Dishes have their roots in regional specialties but are interpreted liberally. On the menu since Hop Alley opened is Beijing duck, normally served whole with pancakes, here reimagined into a wrap, with flaky scallion pancakes forming the shell. The menu changes regularly, so there's always the chance of discovering a new favorite dish. Hop Alley is currently open for takeout, delivery and limited seating in heated outdoor tents.