Bourdain to Denver. Hickenlooper to Introduce. Sparks to Fly?

Celeb chef/author/television Anthyony Bourdain comes of Denver on Wednseday

I feel as if I know Anthony Bourdain. I've read several of his books (Kitchen Confidential, A Cook's Tour and No Reservations) and I've traveled around the world vicariously with him on his Travel Channel series, "No Reservations." He's opinionated, snarky and yet has become increasingly empathetic about the lives and tribulations of people he has encountered. Along the way, he once visited Denver to promote A Cook's Tour and much to the irritation of local patriots and foodies, dismissed the Mile High City's food scene.

He's coming back for a one-night stand at the Buell Theater on Wednesday, November 18, at 7:30 p.m. As a preliminary welcome, Westword ran a contest subtitled "Make Anthony Bourdain Eat His Words."  Readers were invited to suggest three local restaurants that would make him change his snooty New York mind. The entries make for hilarious reading.

Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper, quick-thinking and comfortable on stage, will introduce Bourdain. Hickenlooper is a former restaurateur; Bourdain is a former chef. The repartee should be interesting, but I'm betting that both of these smart, eloquent men will spar for a mo', revert to gracious collegialty. Tickets $35-$65 are still available on line from TicketMaster or by calling 866-461-6556