Editor’s note: This is part of The Know’s series, Staff Favorites. Each week, we offer our opinions on the best Colorado has to offer for dining, shopping, entertainment, outdoor activities and more. (We’ll also let you in on some hidden gems).
For the past few years, my wife and I have made a tradition of stopping in Trinidad during our annual trips to New Mexico.
It’s like clockwork: After about a three-hour drive from Denver, we take a little break in the small city on Colorado’s southern edge. First, we stop by Colie’s Cakes & Pastries to pick up some cookies for the road— the triple chocolate chip with sea salt ($3.65) are addicting. And then we grab lunch at one of my favorite vegan spots in the entire state.
Nestled in the center of the city’s historic Main Street is a quaint mom-and-pop shop, Sita’s Kitchen. The restaurant offers a variety of light but filling dishes, from salads to sandwiches. It’s perfect fuel for continuing the road trip ahead.
At the front of the shop is a mélange of plants adorning the main window. It’s appropriate décor for a business that focuses on plant-forward cuisine. The eatery sources its ingredients from farms in the area — and it shows. The dishes are fresh and vibrant, infusing a medley of spices with quality ingredients to produce tasty creations.
The BBQ jackfruit on flatbread ($15) is a standout dish, especially for meat eaters. Pickled onions, cabbage and sautéed peppers accompany jackfruits that have a pulled-pork texture. Add a splash of hot sauce to give some heat to a flavorful meal.
But my favorite sandwich was the T.L.T. ($15), which included warm-baked tofu with lettuce and fresh tomatoes on a flatbread. A vegan cheese can be added for $1 more. The tofu was slightly crispy and was packed full of flavor.
Other options include a falafel on flatbread ($16) and Mr. McGregor’s Garden ($15), a sandwich that’s heavy on the veggies (but baked tofu can be added on for $5 more if you’re looking for more protein).
Your sweet tooth can find contentment here as well: There’s a variety of fresh juices and baked goods — including chocolate silk pie ($7), apple pie ($7) and cinnamon rolls ($6).
Next time there, I plan on taking the staff’s suggestion and trying one of the pies.
Sita’s Kitchen is at 107 E. Main St. in Trinidad. Call 719-859-5574 or visit sitaskitchen.com for more details.
