First visit to Denver - need a specific recommendation please

[bastaya]

I'll be in Denver for the first time in a few weeks, and am setting up a dinner for 8 grad school friends who'll be having a bit of a reunion there. We'll be staying at the Hyatt Regency. We're looking for a place within walking distance that is tasty, affordable, and not a scene. We are all thirty-somethings who appreciate tasty food of any variety, in a quiet venue. We haven't seen each other in quite a while - so we aren't trying to shout over a bar scene. Also, we're meeting up on a Sat night, so a place that takes a reservation would be great. Any thoughts?

[gumbosally]

if i were hosting a party of 8 i'd make a reservation at panzano and ask for the round table in the back of the restaurant (i think there's only one, so a reservation is imporant). the noise level isn't awful and the food is wonderful. don't be put off by the fact that it is in the hotel monaco; lots of locals eat at panzano. if memory serves, you can take the free bus to champa and walk over 1 block...no point having to drive when you're celebrating! hope this helps.

[tatamagouche]

Panzano recently had a makeover; I'd be sure that table's still there.

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Panzano
909 17th St., Denver, CO 80202