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43 Best Restaurants in Denver

people eating and chatting at a restaurant in Denver

Denver’s dining landscape is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, celebrating a rich fusion of culinary traditions. The Mile-High City’s restaurant scene offers a feast for the senses, with an array of options to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re a local food enthusiast or a visitor eager to explore Denver’s gastronomic treasures, the city’s restaurants provide an exciting culinary journey. From cozy neighborhood bistros to upscale fine dining venues, Denver’s restaurants celebrate diversity and excellence in food. Whether you’re seeking comfort in familiar flavors or adventure in new dishes, our guide showcases the city’s top dining destinations. Join us as we delve into Denver’s eclectic dining scene, where each meal is a unique celebration of taste and tradition.


Cattivella

10195, 80238 E 29th Dr Suite 110, Denver, CO 80238
303-645-3779
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Cattivella Denver
Photo by Molly Merchent

Nestled in the Stapleton neighborhood, on East 29th Drive, Cattivella is another one of the best restaurants in Denver where you can enjoy premium entrees in an upscale and lively environment. Denver-born Chef Elise Wiggins creates mouth-watering wood-fired cuisine that leaves you wanting more. This restaurant also offers cooking classes where you eat what you make. If you’re in the mood for something different, I recommend trying their rabbit gnocchi, garganelli, slow-roasted cinghiale, or buffalo mozzarella pizza. Every Monday, they host an all-night happy hour for guests enjoying dinner on their outdoor patio, so be sure to try a Naughty Girl Gimlet.


Tavernetta

1889 16th St Mall, Denver, CO 80202
720-605-1889
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Tavernetta Denver
Photo by Trevor Fitzsimmons

Nestled in the Kimpton Hotel Born on 16th Street Mall, minutes from Union Station, Tavernetta is my first choice for anybody looking for a classy dining experience. I was amazed by its lively yet upscale atmosphere and its cozy lounge and bar. Chef Cody Cheetham and his culinary team perfected their Italian dishes to exceed your expectations every time. I recommend sampling their handmade pappardelle, seed-crusted duck breast, pollo girarrosto, or bucatini. Be sure to stop by during Tavernetta’s nightly happy hour from 4 PM to 6 PM to sample their bar bites and wine. Don’t forget to try their dessert wine with seasonal gelato and sorbet.


Hop Alley

3500 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
720-379-8340
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Hop Alley Denver
Photo by Aaron Monroe

Denver is no stranger to Chinese cuisine, so why not spend your night out in the RiNo neighborhood in a place with a modern and hip atmosphere? You can find Hop Alley on Larimer Street, a couple of blocks from Reelworks Denver. From its dark lighting to its casual crowds, Chef Tommy Lee offers a wide selection of wine and Chinese favorites with a twist that anyone will love. In my opinion, you should order their ginger-glazed summer squash, cumin lamb buns, Dan Dan Mian, or vegetable fried rice. If you’re in the mood for a refreshing cocktail, try their House Cosmo or Panda.


El Five

2930 15th St Unit #500, Denver, CO 80211
303-524-9193
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pasta with shrimp from El Five in Denver
Photo by Adam You

Curious about where to eat in Denver while exploring the downtown area? El Five, located on 15th Street, near Hirshorn Park, is your go-to destination for enticing Spanish and East Mediterranean tapas. I was taken away by their grand open-air patio and breathtaking panoramic view of the city from their dining room. Their diverse menu encourages sharing with all your friends. My favorite menu options are their seafood paella, matzo ball soup dumplings, Iberico pork loin, and goat cheese croquettes. Head over to their bar to try a Femme Fatale or Pineapple Mint Collins cocktail, or stop by for bottomless Sunday brunch mimosas until 3 PM. If you ask me, it’s the most fun you can have on the weekends in Denver.


Safta

3330 Brighton Blvd #201, Denver, CO 80216
720-408-2444
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Safta Denver
Source: Instagram

Curious about where you can find Middle Eastern fare? Then, consider booking a reservation at Safta, located in The Source Hotel on Brighton Boulevard, near the South Platte River. Their culinary team, led by Chef Josh Gordon, creates unique dishes as you relax in a stylish setting. Their lamb kebabs, crispy Moroccan sea bass, falafel, or lamb ragu hummus make the perfect dinner option while dining in or ordering to-go. Safta also offers a wide array of dinner and brunch cocktails to add extra flavor to your festive night out. Don’t forget to try their King Solomon Cake or Hazelnut Babka for dessert!


Annette

2501 Dallas St STE 108, Aurora, CO 80010
720-710-9975
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Annette Denver
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You can find Annette on Dallas Street, by Westerly Creek not far from Aurora. Out of the many restaurants in Denver, Annette is one of the best, with a great menu of American favorites. Besides their decorated dining room, you can also enjoy your meal in their outdoor greenhouses. Chef Caroline Glover serves wood-fired fare that makes all her guests feel at home. In my opinion, their best dinner dishes are pork tonnato, grilled beef tongue with marrow toast, house cavatelli, and pork schnitzel. If you want something light to start with, order their deviled eggs or popcorn. They host weekend brunch from 10 AM to 2:30 PM, so bring your kids.


The Wolf’s Tailor

4058 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211
720-456-6705
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The Wolf's Tailor Denver
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Located on the corner of Tejon Street and West 41st Avenue, The Wolf’s Tailor is an excellent destination for Denver visitors interested in trying local delicacies. It’s also a relaxing place where you can dine outside and try Italian or Japanese cuisine after a long day of walking through Denver. Chef Kelly Whitaker ensures quality by preparing his dishes with the best ingredients. Their seasonal menu offers something new for you to sample at every time of the year, so I recommend their mafaldine pasta, onigiri, octopus skewer, pork rib, or bok choy. Each seasonal item tastes great with their draft beer.


Glo Noodle House

4450 W 38th Ave #130, Denver, CO 80212
303-993-4180
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Glo Noodle House Denver
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If you’re planning to go to Glo Noodle House with more people, make sure to remember that they do get busy sometimes, so making a reservation is recommended. However, don’t let that information deter you from a visit. The menu selections are out of this world, and you won’t be able to put your bowl down (slurping is encouraged). There are so many incredible choices on the Glo Noodle House menu that it’s hard to narrow it down to one recommendation. However, on my first visit, I ordered the Wagyu Brisket Shoyu and did not regret it for a second. Moreover, I highly recommend checking out their selection of drinks, as you can order everything from cocktails to beer, wine, and sake.


Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club

1330 27th St, Denver, CO 80205
303-295-3333
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Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club Denver
Source: Instagram

Are you eager to fully immerse yourself in Denver’s music and nightlife scene? If so, you should consider booking a reservation at Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club, found on the corner of 27th Street and Larimer Street. This lively eatery has live jazz most of the week, setting the mood while enjoying a classic cocktail. You can also book small private parties. Their elevated three-course dinner menu has bold flavors that will make your night here worthwhile. During my visit to Nocturne, I had their Confit Berkshire Pork Belly, Icelandic Arctic Char, and Affogato. Each menu item also offers a recommended wine pairing.


Comal Heritage Food Incubator

3455 Ringsby Ct #105, Denver, CO 80216
720-500-3455
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Comal Heritage Food Incubator Denver
Source: Instagram

Located on Ringsby Court, overlooking the South Platte River, Comal Heritage Food Incubator is my top contender for anyone looking for an authentic Latin American lunch. This tranquil spot uses locally sourced ingredients to create tasty scratch-made dishes. They also offer delivery within five miles. One of the reasons I enjoy this restaurant is its ever-changing daily menu. During my visit to Denver, I tried their Tinga De Pollo Plate, Rajas con Queso Taco, Carnitas Plate, and Impossible Burrito. They also offer the best rice and beans side dish and fruity Jarritos to satisfy your hunger. If you have room for dessert, order their arroz con leche.

See also  16 Best Pizza Places in Denver

El Taco De Mexico

714 Santa Fe Dr, Denver, CO 80204
303-623-3926
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El Taco De Mexico Denver
Source: Instagram

Sometimes Mexican food is the only way to go when you’re famished. The cravings have a way of hitting hard. If this sounds like you, I would highly recommend visiting El Taco De Mexico. They are open for extended hours (starting at 7 AM!), and their location is right across the street from Su Teatro Cultural and Performing Arts Center. The restaurant promotes authentic Mexican food, and I can vouch that it is the real deal. In addition to all the popular Mexican fare one would expect to see on the menu, they also offer other amazing Mexican culinary creations, such as Gorditas and Synchronizadas. I love starting my day off with their Special Breakfast or ordering the Sopes for lunch or dinner.


Sushi Den

1487 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
303-777-0826
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Sushi Den Denver
Source: Instagram

If you’re an avid sushi lover, I recommend stopping by Sushi Den, on the corner of South Pearl Street and East Florida Avenue, to sample the best sushi Denver offers. This sophisticated and welcoming restaurant is the perfect setting for a weekend dinner and offers Chef Toshi’s dishes for take-out. If you plan on ordering from their award-winning kitchen menu, you should try their Sriracha-Garlic Shrimp, Teriyaki Chicken, Vegetable Sushi Dinner, or Nabeyaki Udon. I also enjoyed their sushi roll and tempura options with a Lychee Margarita. Finally, try one of their Japanese whisky flights to fully embrace the city’s nightlife vibes.


Uchi Denver

2500 Lawrence St, Denver, CO 80205
303-444-1922
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Uchi Denver Denver
Source: Instagram

Next on the list is Uchi Denver, located off the corner of Lawrence Street and 25th Street. It has a modern yet relaxed setting suitable for enjoying its happy hour specialties. With his years of experience, Executive Chef Tyson Cole puts a new twist on Japanese entrees and sushi. Uchi Denver’s menus are great for seafood lovers and vegetarians alike. I recommend sampling their bluefin crudo, pork belly, kinoko sushi, or chef’s choice omakase. Think you’d prefer something lighter? Try their tastings or nigiri during their daily happy hour from 4 PM to 6:30 PM. My favorite drinks are their Summer Breeze and Dreamy Clouds.


La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal

2233 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
720-827-4158
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La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal Denver
Source: Instagram

If you’re thinking Mexican food but want to kick it up a notch, La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal will be right up your alley. They display their unique cocktails that are special to their restaurant right at the top of their menu. From personal experience, I can tell you that Boozy AF is a superb option, but they offer many more gems, so it’s always fun grabbing a drink here. The restaurant opens in the afternoon, so you won’t find any lunch options. However, it is located near Coors Field and the Denver Zoo, so if you are spending the day at either of those locations, be sure to stop in for dinner.


Barolo Grill

3030 E 6th Ave, Denver, CO 80206
303-393-1040
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Barolo Grill Denver
Source: Instagram

In my opinion, Barolo Grill is an excellent Italian restaurant you should narrow down on your list when considering where to date and dine. You can find it on the corner of East 6th Avenue and St. Paul Street. Its upscale and elegant atmosphere makes it the perfect setting for trying their extensive wine list. You can choose between several menu options for their four-course meal. I recommend their Roasted Pheasant, Spaghetti Alla Bolognese Bianco, Semolina-Crusted Veal Tenderloin, and Granita di Prugna. It’s good to know that several of their menu items are gluten-free. They also offer a la carte dining during the weekdays.


Marco’s Coal-Fired

2129 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
303-296-7000
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Marco's Coal-Fired Denver
Source: Instagram

If you have never had a coal-fired pizza, you must run to Marco’s to experience the amazingness. Something about this way of cooking makes the flavors explode and the pizza crust the perfect combination of chewy and crunchy. They offer a whole slew of different pizzas expertly prepared with imported ingredients and featuring traditional Italian flavors. In addition, if you’re a vegan or looking for gluten-free options, don’t worry. Marco’s offers several options that cater to those dietary requirements. Stop in for lunch or dinner while you’re in Denver. You can’t miss it; its location is right next to Union Station.


Beckon

2843 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
303-749-0020
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Beckon Denver
Source: Instagram

Beckon, located on Larimer Street, offers one of the most unique dining experiences in Denver. This casual restaurant incorporates quarterly menus and lets you dine on a gorgeous covered patio or at a 12-seat chef’s counter. It’s also prepaid, so you won’t have to worry about spending too much on Chef Duncan Holmes’ dishes during one sitting. Most of their menu has Scandinavian-inspired flavors. My favorite dinner options are their prime rib for two, Scottish ocean trout, and winter truffles. Don’t forget to browse their beverage menu for a wide selection of wines, beer, cocktails, and spirits to enhance your premium dinner in RiNo.


WaterCourse Foods

837 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80218
303-832-7313
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WaterCourse Foods Denver
Source: Instagram

Denver’s City Park West neighborhood is the best place you can find healthier dining options. WaterCourse Foods, nestled on East 17th Avenue, is a cozy vegan restaurant serving dishes made with local produce. It’s a nice change of pace from Denver’s meatiest menus. Order their chicken and waffles, Philly churrasco cheesesteak, buffalo chicken pizza, or udon noodle bowl when you stop by for dinner or lunch. They also offer 25% discounts on their pizzas on Wednesdays and non-dessert items for service workers on Tuesdays. The host happy hour every day from 3 PM to 6 PM, so don’t miss out on their pre-batched cocktails to-go!


Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs

2148 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
720-746-9355
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Biker Jim's Gourmet Dogs Denver
Source: Instagram

Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs is a step up from what you can find at the supermarket or ballpark, giving you endless possibilities on how to enjoy a hot dog. You can find it on Larimer Street, blocks away from Coors Field. It has a casual biker-inspired atmosphere, emphasizing the best food to take on the go. Biker Jim’s also has food carts scattered across the city. If you really want to take your taste buds for a spin, I recommend their ostrich, chicken peach chipotle, vegan, or elk jalapeno cheddar dog with a side of house fries or charred tahini cauliflower.


Rioja

1431 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202
303-820-2282
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Rioja Denver
Source: Instagram

A visit to Rioja will give you the opportunity to enjoy the most fantastic food that hails from Southern Spain. This Mediterranean restaurant is excellent for celebrating a special occasion or enjoying Happy Hours. You can also come in for brunch on Saturday and Sunday. You will be hard-pressed to pick one item from the menu that stands out above the others. However, when I find myself thinking about a visit to Rioja, the hazelnut torte on the dessert menu is always the first item to pop into my mind.


ChoLon Downtown Denver

1555 Blake St #101, Denver, CO 80202
303-353-5223
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ChoLon Downtown Denver
Source: Instagram

Named after Saigon’s largest Chinese-influenced market and Chef Lon Symensma, ChoLon Downtown Denver, located on Blake Street, is the best option to consider when you’re craving Southeast Asian cuisine with a European twist. Its rustic yet sleek aesthetic gives it a touch of class. Their lounge and patio are an ideal backdrop for their happy hour. In my opinion, their best dishes are grilled Vietnamese chicken wings, miso-glazed cod, summer vegetable fried rice, or BBQ pork spare ribs. My favorite cocktail I like pairing with my meal is Citrus Blossom. They also offer spiced donuts and Peach Passion tea for dessert.

See also  15 Best Denver Rooftop Bars

Spuntino

2639 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211
303-433-0949
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Spuntino Denver
Source: Instagram

You can find Spuntino on West 32nd Avenue, next door to the Henry Lee House venue. This rustic Italian restaurant has a covered open-air dining area for anyone who prefers a different view than most dining rooms. Chef Cindhura Reddy’s dishes are some of the best the city offers. Spuntino offers several pasta dishes and Italian favorites. I enjoyed their Pollo al Mattone, ravioli, lasagna, and Salsiccia. They also have a wide selection of cocktails and wines you can bring home and offer ever-changing themed weekly wine flights. Be sure to book a reservation for their Festa della Stagione prix fixe dinner.


Root Down

1600 W 33rd Ave, Denver, CO 80211
303-993-4200
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Root Down Denver
Source: Instagram

Root Down brings a blend of natural ingredients and home cooking techniques to an aesthetically pleasing restaurant among the mountains. Start your meal with a drink from their extensive drink menu while you think about the appetizers and entrees you want to order. If I were you, I would first order the Gettin’ Figgy With It cocktail, followed by the Colombian arepas and the Rockfish Tom Kha. Finish your experience at Root Down with the Panna Colada dessert. Don’t blame me if you have to roll out of the restaurant; it will still be worth it!


Jovanina’s Broken Italian

1520 Blake St, Denver, CO 80202
720-541-7721
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Jovanina’s Broken Italian Denver
Source: Instagram

Overlooking Blake Street, Jovanina’s Broken Italian offers a rustic yet charming setting for people to enjoy a modern take on Italian cuisine while exploring the Lower Downtown area. Root Down brings a blend of natural ingredients and home cooking techniques to an aesthetically pleasing restaurant among the mountains. Start your meal with a drink from their extensive drink menu while you think about the appetizers and entrees you want to order. If I were you, I would first order the Gettin’ Figgy With It cocktail, followed by the Colombian arepas and the Rockfish Tom Kha. Finish your experience at Root Down with the Panna Colada dessert. Don’t blame me if you have to roll out of the restaurant; it will still be worth it!


Ginger Pig

4262 Lowell Blvd, Denver, CO 80211
720-324-8416
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Ginger Pig Denver
Source: Instagram

You shouldn’t have trouble finding delectable Asian food on Lowell Boulevard when stopping by the Ginger Pig. Chef Natascha brings a fresh take on Asian street-style food by incorporating everything she learned about cooking in Beijing. It has a relaxing atmosphere, bar, and outdoor dining space. My favorite spicy options I liked during my visit are their Sichuan Spicy Eggplant, Korean Garlic Fried Chicken, Auntie Zheng’s Chinese Noodles, and Japanese Fried Chicken. Cool your taste buds down by trying their lemongrass vanilla bean or chili vanilli ice cream. It’s also an excellent place to bring your children because of their vegetarian and gluten-free kid’s menu options.


The Bindery

1817 Central St, Denver, CO 80211
303-993-2364
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The Bindery Denver
Source: Instagram

The Bindery is a casual Denver hidden gem you can find in the LoHi neighborhood, just off of Central Street by Highland Gateway Park. This is the best place to try unique dishes taking inspiration from global favorites. So, whether you’re there for breakfast or dinner, it’s a great way to expand your taste palette. Want to stop for dinner here? If so, I recommend their Saffron Pappardelle, 14-day aged ribeye, slow-braised oxtail with potato gnocchi, or beet ravioli. Stop by on Wine Wednesday for great wine bottle deals all day or during Blu Hour for their cocktail of the day.


Potager Restaurant & Wine Bar

1109 N Ogden St, Denver, CO 80218
303-832-5788
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Potager Restaurant & Wine Bar Denver
Source: Instagram

Another restaurant specializing in New American cuisine you should consider your next stop during your day in the city is Potager Restaurant & Wine Bar, located on North Ogden Street. It has a rustic and comfortable atmosphere, ideal for enjoying Executive Chef Paul Warthen’s dishes made with the freshest, locally grown farm ingredients. I recommend starting with their vegetable appetizers and trying their Hatch Chile Pork Chop, Parmesan Soufflé, Linguine, or Potager’s Gargouillou. Don’t forget to ask about their daily specials, such as their Wednesday pumpkin and chevre ravioli. Each dish tastes great with sparkling or dessert wine, so be sure to ask your server about their pairing suggestions.


Señor Bear

3301 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211
720-572-5997
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Señor Bear Denver
Source: Instagram

Immediately upon walking into Señor Bear, you will notice how light and airy the building is, with tons of natural sun coming through the many windows. They have amazing Happy Hour and dinner options with all their Latin-inspired menu items. The menu is brief, but all items are made authentically and with the highest quality ingredients. My go-to order is the Pork Pernil with a side of Arroz con Coco. What I love most about this restaurant, besides the fantastic food and bright sunny environment, is the atmosphere between the staff and customers. Everyone is so nice and inviting, making every visit great.


Work & Class

2500 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
303-292-0700
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Work & Class Denver
Source: Instagram

Located on Larimer Street, Work & Class is the best option for indulging Latin American and Southern dishes in a relaxing setting. Executive Chef Dana Rodriguez uses her seasoned skills to create iconic dishes every day. Additionally, Work & Class offers catering services for specific events because they know sometimes you’ve got something special coming up and you need to leave a great first impression. I started with their baked lamb meatballs and ordered half a pound of Green Chile Pork Carnitas with a large side of Cajun sweet potato fries and honey butter biscuits. My favorite cocktails are their Grapefruit Habanero Rosemary and Extra Long Island Iced Tea. Every Wednesday through Sunday, they hold happy hour from 5 PM to 6 PM, so be sure to bring your friends.


Fruition Restaurant

1313 E 6th Ave, Denver, CO 80218
303-831-1962
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Fruition Restaurant Denver
Source: Instagram

You can find Fruition Restaurant on East 6th Avenue, minutes away from the Denver School of Photography. Chef Alex Seidel and his team offer avid food fans enticing New American dishes in a small yet refined environment. They have a menu that regularly changes, giving you many opportunities to try something new every time you dine in. They also offer patio seating for walk-ins. Fruition serves excellent Bavette Steak, Wild King Salmon, and Shrimp & Grits. Additionally, they offer dishes for anyone following a gluten-free or vegetarian diet. Try their wine pairings or Five-Course Tasting Cru Menu specials if you’re dining with friends for an engaging experience.


The Greenwich

The Greenwich Denver
Source: Instagram

The Greenwich works with local farmers to supply the restaurant with healthy ingredients that benefit their community. You can easily taste the local difference in their meals. There are many items on the menu that are unique combinations but wholesome and flavorful. An example of one of the top menu items I order every time I visit is the salt-crusted beets with whipped ricotta. While it may not sound like your cup of tea, just try it! I promise that you won’t regret it.


Wildflower

3638 Navajo St, Denver, CO 80211
720-706-6615

Wildflower Denver
Source: Instagram

Within walking distance from La Raza Park and Bernabe “Indio” Franco Park lies Wildflower, nestled on Navajo Street. This robust yet relaxing eatery has an old western aesthetic, emphasized by the artwork and photos on its walls. Wildflower specializes in locally fermented beers and Italian and Mexican dishes of any size, satisfying the hunger of any passerby. In my opinion, their best dishes are Grilled Lamb Chorizo, Goat Cheese Tortellini, and Spiced Rubbed Duroc Pork Shoulder. They also have a wide selection of cocktails and meads, such as Magdelena, Von-Yay, and Marigold de la Rosa. Feel free to stop by their cafe for herbal tea or wellness lattes. 

See also  5 Best Boozy & Bottomless Brunch Spots in Denver

Happy Camper

3211 N Pecos St, Denver, CO 80211
720-259-1044
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Happy Camper Denver
Source: Instagram

Happy Camper has a few locations throughout the United States, with one in Denver in the Highland neighborhood. The menu comprises many styles of pizza, and the inside of the restaurant is fun and lively. You can also dine outdoors with a fire and comfortable lounge furniture. My family loves visiting Happy Camper because of its laid-back atmosphere and unique layout. I also love that we can choose different types of pizza, whether meat, veggie, or even chicken. We have tried many different ones on the menu and have yet to find one we don’t like.


The Plimoth

2335 E 28th Ave, Denver, CO 80205
303-297-1215
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The Plimoth Denver
Source: Instagram

The Plimoth is in Denver’s Stapleton neighborhood on East 28th Avenue. This New American eatery has a rustic ambiance and wooden counters, making it an ideal backdrop for enjoying local and seasonal New American dishes crafted by Executive Chef Josh Abro with your family or friends after touring the city. If you’ve got a large appetite, start with their zucchini toast or country-style pork rillette before ordering their Pan-Seared Pacific Halibut, Cracklin Chicken, or Grilled Colorado Lamb Ribs. Additionally, I enjoyed their Colorado apple tart for dessert. Each menu item also lists a suggested wine pairing to complement each dish’s flavor.


Lucina Eatery & Bar

2245 Kearney St #101, Denver, CO 80207
720-814-1053
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Lucina Eatery & Bar Denver
Source: Instagram

If you find yourself in South Park Hill during your time in Denver, it will be worth your while to stop and have dinner at Lucina Eatery & Bar. Before you go, it’s important to note that Lucina is only open in the evenings and is closed on Sundays and Mondays. So don’t plan for a lunch date there! Another great addition to Lucina’s menu is that they have a section devoted to kids. I don’t know about yours, but my kids eat so much more when there are a few child-friendly options to choose from at a restaurant.


Table 6

609 Corona St, Denver, CO 80218
303-831-8800
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Table 6 Denver
Source: Instagram

If you find yourself walking through Denver’s Alamo Placita neighborhood, why not stop for dinner at Table 6, just off the corner of Corona Street and 6th Avenue? This casual and rustic restaurant is the perfect destination for indulging in New American comfort food after a long week. Chef Aniedra Nichols creates unconventional seasonal dishes using quality farm-to-table ingredients. Most of Table 6’s menu appeals to vegetable, seafood, and meat lovers. In my opinion, I recommend ordering their roasted Alaskan halibut, duck confit, or squash and yam enchiladas after starting with their buffalo tots or butternut squash soup. Be sure to try their hand-selected curated wines.


Urban Burma

10180 E Colfax Ave, Aurora, CO 80010
626-628-5430
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Urban Burma Denver
Source: Instagram

You don’t come across Burmese food every day, so when you see it, you need to take advantage and stop in. If you’ve never had this, you need to, as it’s one of the most flavorful options when it comes to food. No member of my family complains about eating at Urban Burma, and yours won’t either! Located in North Aurora, you can purchase the Burma Sampler to try several dishes at once. This option is especially nice if you haven’t tried the food before.


Q House

3421 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206
720-729-8887
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Q House Denver
Source: Instagram

Can’t narrow down any Chinese restaurants in Denver’s East Colfax neighborhood? Then, consider booking your next family dinner at Q House, located on East Colfax Avenue, within walking distance from Bluebird Theater. Chef Christopher Yon uses his experience to create vibrant Chinese dishes for guests to relax in a modern and intimate setting. Do you follow any diet restrictions? If so, Q House offers several of its appetizers and entrees with vegetarian and gluten-free substitutions. I recommend trying their Shacha BBQ Spareribs, Shrimp Fried Rice, or Wok-Fried Cheung Fun. Although their dessert menu is limited, the coconut cheesecake is to die for!


Somebody People

1165 S Broadway #104, Denver, CO 80210
720-502-5681
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Somebody People Denver
Source: Instagram

Between Platt Park and Washington Park West is a fun restaurant called Somebody People. They refer to themselves as a “vegetable-forward” establishment. What this means is that their dishes center around being meatless, and the produce comes from local farms. One of the things I love about Somebody People is that you can choose an option that they call Feed Me, where the whole table participates and eats family style. Picking from all the different food choices is half the fun, and you’ll leave completely full and happy.


Misfit Snack Bar at Middleman

3401 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206
303-353-4207
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Misfit Snack Bar at Middleman Denver
Source: Instagram

The name of this establishment accurately represents the food offerings on the menu. The Misfit Snack Bar is a great place to pop into for a drink and a quick bite. While the food portion of their offerings is meek, they are great tasting and filling. From chips and dip to burgers, there are several different ways to quench your appetite while there. As far as drinks, there are many different types and styles. You can get a draft beer or canned drinks. There are also many unique cocktails that are fan favorites. So grab a drink and a snack and hang out at Misfits!


The Capital Grille

1450 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202
303-539-2500
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The Capital Grille Denver
Source: Instagram

Nestled in the heart of Larimer Square, not too far from Denver’s Center for the Performing Arts, lies The Capital Grille, overlooking Larimer Street. This upscale and clubby restaurant has the best steak and seafood you can find deep within the Mile-High City, so be sure to dress in your best evening wear. They offer the most succulent filet mignon, sushi-grade seared sesame tuna, double-cut lamb rib chops, and seared tenderloin with butter-poached lobster tails. I also suggest trying one of their finest red, white, or sparkling wines. You should also consider taking a grille box to-go for cooking their choice cuts at home.


Izakaya Den

1487A S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
303-777-0691
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Izakaya Den Denver
Source: Instagram

Last but not least is Izakaya Den, located on South Pearl Street. As the next-door sister restaurant to Sushi Den, this refined restaurant embraces its Japanese inspiration in dining rooms with hanging lights, bamboo partitions, and wooden rafters. If you’re in the mood for trying small Japanese tapas with global flavors, you’ll love it here. I enjoyed their fresh Alaskan halibut, Wagyu NY strip steak, assorted tempura, and duck udon during my visit. They also have an extensive list of nigiri and sushi den rolls for avid sushi fans. I also recommend asking your server about their signature cocktails and hot sake.


Vinh Xuong Bakery 

2370 W Alameda Ave, Denver, CO 80223
303-922-0999
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Vinh Xuong Bakery Denver
Source: Instagram

No visit to Denver is complete without a trip to Vinh Xuong Bakery, a Vietnamese establishment that serves light fare and homemade goods. Whether you’re popping in to get a few pastries or staying for lunch, you will be happy you made the time to check it out. I love to stop in to grab a drink on a warm day and peruse the bakery offerings to see what’s new. It’s also my go-to for a quick lunch when I’m short on time. I love ordering the Grilled Pork sandwich as a wrap, as it’s fewer carbs and all the flavor. As you can see, there are plenty of restaurants in Denver to stop by after a busy day of touring the city or celebrating with your friends. So, whether you’re in the mood for a small lunch or multi-course dinner, I assure you that you can find a new favorite.

Why Trust Us?

When it comes to local restaurant recommendations, we pride ourselves on being a reliable and trustworthy resource. Our suggestions are not just based on our personal experiences, ensuring a more authentic and well-rounded perspective, but also on extensive online research. We diligently searched the internet and reviewed 6 credible sites and blogs, including Cntraveler.com and Denver.eater.com. 

We compiled all the findings in one location and sorted them by the frequency of mentions to ensure you receive top-notch recommendations. We strive to present you with a curated list of establishments that truly stand out, allowing you to enjoy the best dining experiences possible. 

Interested in the sources we consulted? Check out the list of all 6 sites we referenced below this paragraph, offering transparency and an opportunity for our readers to explore further. Our commitment is to deliver trustworthy and unparalleled recommendations, helping you make informed decisions on your culinary journeys.

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-restaurants-in-denver
https://denver.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-denver-eater-38
https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/Restaurants-g33388-Denver_Colorado.html
https://www.5280.com/the-25-best-restaurants-in-denver-2023/
https://www.timeout.com/denver/restaurants/best-restaurants-in-denver
https://www.denver.org/food-drink/restaurants/must-try-restaurants/

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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

Follow him on LinkedIn, Instagram, Quora, Google Guide and Facebook.