Experience Corsican Culinary Tradition in Denver’s RiNo Neighborhood

The new wine bar and restaurant offers food and libations with genuine European flair

May 22, 2024

Anne Hebert,

Courtesy: Corsica

If an escape to a Euro destination for world class food, wine, and cocktails beckons, no need to head to the airport. An evening at the new Corsica Wine Bar will make you feel as though you’ve stepped through a portal into a phenomenal space featuring rustic, small plates of Corsican fare, a full list of wines from Italy, France, and Germany, and a regional take on cocktail creations. “From the day we unlocked our doors, RiNo neighbors started visiting and returning with friends,” says Corsica Creative Director, Drew McConnell. “The restaurant pays homage to the RiNo community.”

The proof is evident in the three lively, buzzing cocktail and dining spaces within. “Each of our dining areas is a little different,” McConnell points out. “This gives guests a unique perspective and experience every time they visit.” An open kitchen allows patrons to observe the hustle and bustle it takes to prepare one delicious dish after the next. Manager, James Keiser explains, “Corsica Wine Bar is a kind of love letter to the neighborhood.”

Courtesy: Corsica

Emphasizing the robust tradition of Corsican hospitality, guests are seated and welcomed with a bubbly glass of “sprutzo” from the wine list. Apèro choices introduce house-made Vinegar Potato Chips accompanied by chive aioli; a hard-boiled Farm Egg presented on grape leaves with crispy shallots and capers; and Nduja dates stuffed with saba, hazelnut, and tarragon, among other selections.

Twenty Small Plate offerings include hand-cut Corsican Frites served with aioli and Calabrian ketchup; Bastian Meatballs with ricotta, parmigiano, and tomato sauce; and Barbajuan crispy ravioli stuffed with ricotta, greens, and topped with parmigiano. A late-night menu is offered with the addition of a Guanciale Burger and Fish & Chips.

Courtesy: Corsica

Whatever you do, save room for dessert. The Aprés menu features seven items including Crispy Fontina Ravioli topped with maquis honey; Almond Cake with crème-frâiche frosting; and a not-to-be-missed Tiramisu. Dessert can be accompanied by coffee, tea, or a selection of après dinner drinks.

Before you leave, take note of the stunning photographs of Corsica and other Euro destinations snapped by McConnell while on vacation. The black and white photos, artfully displayed in all three dining areas, evoke a depth of familiarity and yearning for place. The exquisite mural on the restaurant’s exterior was painted by artist, Keya Tama, and unveiled during the 2023 Denver Walls Festival.