If Denver's "green" theme during the Democratic National Convention somehow dodged your conscience, then here's another opportunity to make up for the lapse.

The Denver Independent Network of Restaurants, in partnership with the Colorado Wine Board and Colorado Proud, a statewide program that promotes local food and agriculture, is paying homage to local farmers, ranchers, suppliers, winemakers, breweries and distilleries during Harvest Week. This weeklong tribute is all about supporting independent restaurants while embracing the bumper crop of food and beverages grown or produced in Colorado.

"Eating locally not only helps keep the cost of food down because it doesn't have far to travel, but also encourages the production of superior ingredients while benefiting the environment," says Elizabeth Williams, Harvest Week committee chairwoman and events manager at Highland's Garden Cafe, chef-owner Pat Perry's long-standing shrine to all things seasonal and local.

Most of the participating restaurants are unleashing multicourse menus, coupled with wine, cocktail or beer pairings, in conjunction with their everyday menus.

Additionally, several restaurants are hosting individual events and programs, including talks with local farmers, presentations by Denver Urban Gardens and cooking events geared toward kids.

* The program: Forty local restaurants turn out seasonal menus focused on local produce and fruit, buffalo, lamb, beef and fish, farmstead cheeses, wines, microbrews, whiskeys and vodkas.

* When: Sept. 6-12

* Who's cooking: The list continues to grow, but here's a small sampling of participating restaurants: Barolo Grill, Beatrice & Woodsley, Campo De Fiori, Highland's Garden Cafe, Luca D'Italia, Duo, Mizuna, Mel's Anti-Bistro, Parallel 17, Racines, Solera Restaurant & Wine Bar, Sushi Den, Table 6, The Oven and Vesta Dipping Grill.

* Price: Varies from restaurant to restaurant

* Menus and more information: eatdenver.com

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