Denver Date Night: Get Romantic On Old South Pearl Street

With crisp air and bright sunshine, fall mornings in Denver are tailor-made for romance. Set up an early date with your sweetie in the charming Old South Pearl Street district this Sunday and make it an all-day affair.

Stella’s: Begin the morning with a cup o’ joe at Stella’s eclectic Coffeehouse. Peruse the local art on the brightly painted walls then ease into a seat in the backroom where you can often enjoy live music ranging from acoustic guitar to soothing harp. 1476 S. Pearl St.; 303-777-1031

Farmers Market: Walk a few feet from Stella’s to the entrance of the South Pearl Farmers Market, filled with natural and organic food vendors and most of the neighborhood. People watch in between samplings of sweet and savory -- and often spicy -- local fare. Tip: The Palisade peaches are ridiculously plump and juicy right now.Sundays, 9am - 1pm1200 block of South Pearl

Black Pearl: If you didn’t fill up on the plethora of samples on the street, duck into Black Pearl, a New American eatery, for brunch and a cocktail. Try to nab a seat on the patio – heaters are available for brisk days – or inside near the east wall where oft-open windows reach nearly floor to ceiling. Tip: The light and fruity sangria isn’t always on the menu but is often available upon request.Sunday brunch, 10am - 3pm1529 S. Pearl St.; 303-777-0500

Empty Bottle: Meander a short ways south and make your way into Empty Bottle, a boutique wine store that won’t make you feel as though you need to be sommelier-certified to discuss the vino. Specializing in specialty and small labels, you’ll find plenty of new bottles to try. Call ahead to set up an in-store tasting.1886 S. Pearl St.; 303-722-5478

Extend the Evening: Now that you’re stocked with fresh veggies, breads, sauces and pastas, take all your goodies along with that bottle of wine and extend the date into the evening with a home-cooked meal made for two. Bon apetit!

Flickr photo via fotosiamo