My late father-in-law often proclaimed wine a food, which typically led to passionate debate. I’m certain he would have fit in well at Uva Wine Bar where the vino was plentiful, the vittles praiseworthy and no doubt about either.

The Menu

Uva is Italian for grape, and there are numerous varietals represented here. Yet, the food is as carefully curated as the wine list.

The “Bites” section of the menu could easily read tapas or shareables. These barely outnumber the combined offerings in the Flatbreads, Plates and Salads parts of the bill of fare.

Critic’s Tip

Sitting at a restaurant bar is something everyone should try at least once, and Uva is an especially good place for that experience. The bartender is also your server who, here, was attentive and easy to banter with. It’s also easy to be a little nosy to see, and ask, what others have ordered. This can lead to some fun, interesting exchanges.

On the Table

Roasted Brussel sprouts ($11) glistened with sweet Thai chile. The charred halved veggies were not a pretty sight. Fortunately, looks aren’t everything and the crispy exterior layers belied the tender interior so the sugary and slightly pungent elements of the sauce were able to tease the taste buds.

Torn between fig & prosciutto flatbread ($15) and grilled flat iron steak ($24), I chose the former against the server’s  (bartender) recommendation. I was happy with my choice.

Oblong-shaped, the thin, crispy crust was slathered with creamy ricotta cheese. This was topped with peppery arugula, a generous amount of crunchy prosciutto, sliced figs and balsamic drizzle. I would have liked more figs, but overall this was a fresh and satisfying meal.

I noticed several flatbreads delivered nearby. Flatiron steaks and French onion smashburgers ($16) also appeared to be popular items.

The combination of gooey melted gruyere and caramelized onions on a perfectly prepared burger evoked memories of French onion soup. Garlic aioli added another flavor component. The brioche bun held up well to the juicy meat with crispy edges. The substantial serving of fries on the side was almost superfluous — almost.

The Venue

From the décor featuring a large collection/selection of wine bottles artfully displayed, shelves of (wine) glasses and wine-related art, it’s easy to see that Uva is as advertised: a wine bar. The space is long, with lots of windows, with the bar as a focal point. A small room off to the side of the main dining area has four tables that offer a private, quieter setting. Leather couches make up another seating area that can be reconfigured to accommodate live music.

Without a stake in a game or event, the two televisions above the bar could be ignored. Uva can get noisy because the vibe is definitely lively.

Afterthoughts

Service was excellent, matched by the quality of our meal. When our bartender/server was busy, another server seamlessly stepped in.

We noticed a gentleman on a couch reading; his dog was comfortably at his feet. We learned they’re regulars; so was the couple we conversed with at the bar. It says a lot when there are repeat patrons.

Know Before You Go

Uva Wine Bar

Upscale bar fare

Location: 1268 Interquest Parkway, Suite 160

Contact: 719-598-1990; uvawinebarcos.com 

Entrée Prices: $6 to $30

Hours: Noon to 9 p.m. Sunday; 4 to 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 4 to 10 p.m. Friday; noon to 10 p.m. Saturday. Closed Monday and Tuesday.

Details: Credit cards accepted. Wi-Fi. Patio. Alcohol.

Favorite dishes: French onion smashburger and fig & prosciutto flatbread.

Other: Gluten-free and limited vegan options available.

El Paso County Health Department inspection: 54 of 56 areas in compliance (May 2026).