denver art museum Kids AMERICAN Sure, it s contrived, touristy, and nowhere near healthy, but when you get that urge f

Kids AMERICAN Sure, it s contrived, touristy, and nowhere near healthy, but when you get that urge for a chocolate shake and banana cream pie at midnight or when you want to entertain the kids no other place comes through like Mel s Diner. Modeled after a 1950s diner, down to the jukebox at each table, Mel s harks back to the days when cholesterol and fried foods didn t jab your conscience with every greasy, wonderful bite. Too bad the prices don t reflect the 50s: A burger with fries and a Coke runs about $9.50. There s another denver art museum Mel s at 3355 Geary St., at Stanyan Street (& 415/3872244); it s open Thursday through Saturday from 6am to 3am.

Nisei Week Japanese Festival, denver art museum Los Angeles. This weeklong celebration of Japanese culture and heritage is held in Little Tokyo at the Japanese American denver art museum Cultural and Community denver art museum Center Plaza. Festivities include parades, food, music, arts, and crafts. Call & 213/687-7193. Mid-August.