When it comes to culinary excellence in the heart of Colorado, Denver stands as an unrivaled destination for food enthusiasts seeking unforgettable dining experiences. In a city brimming with delectable delights and culinary creativity, discovering the best restaurants can be an exciting yet challenging task. Fear not, for we have scoured every corner of the Mile High City to present you with a definitive list of the 10 best restaurants in Denver. Prepare to indulge in a symphony of flavors, where each establishment boasts its unique charm, leaving diners with a gastronomic journey like no other.
The 10 best restaurants in Denver
1. STK Steakhouse
STK Steakhouse exceeded all our expectations, thanks in no small part to the exceptional service provided by Ryan D. From the moment we arrived, Ryan’s attentiveness and enthusiasm enhanced our dining experience. We kicked off our meal with happy hour appetizers, and boy, were we in for a treat. The wagyu meatballs were simply superb, and the short rib quesadillas left us craving for more. For the mains, my daughter savored a delicious filet while I relished a perfectly prepared sea bass.
The only disappointment of the evening were the lackluster mushrooms, but the delectable bread made up for it. The restaurant’s ambiance was truly memorable, with lively music and a staff that exuded warmth and hospitality. The wagyu steak was undoubtedly the highlight of the evening, a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece. Not to mention the friendly and welcoming staff, particularly Tim Mack, who ensured our every need was met with a smile. Tim’s suggestions, especially the tots, were spot on and added an extra layer of delight to our meal.
Additionally, the entire team at STK made us feel pampered and cherished throughout our visit, with Ryan leading the charge in making our afternoon truly special. From start to finish, Ryan’s attentive care made us feel right at home, and we were thrilled with the entire STK experience. We can’t wait to return for another unforgettable dining adventure. Thank you, Ryan, for making our visit extraordinary – you are the epitome of exceptional service!
Address: 1550 Market St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 12 AM
Menu: places.singleplatform.com
Reservations: stksteakhouse.com, opentable.com, resy.com
Order: postmates.com, seamless.com, trycaviar.com, grubhub.com, ubereats.com, allsetnow.com, doordash.com, myguestaccount.com
Phone: +1 720-597-8010
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2. El Five
El Five in Denver offers a vibrant and eclectic dining experience with breathtaking city views and funky decor that’s sure to captivate. We stopped by for pre-dinner drinks before heading to Linger, and the ambiance was simply enthralling. The bartenders’ artistry in crafting unique cocktails was like a show in itself, making our time at the bar truly enjoyable. The matzah ball dumplings we tried were intriguing and surprisingly delicious. However, the service was a bit slow, and it took quite a while for our dish to arrive, which was the only downside of our visit. Nevertheless, the tantalizing dishes we observed around us left us eager to return and explore more of their offerings.
Despite the beautiful view and a trendy setting, our overall experience at El Five was not entirely flawless. Booking in advance is essential due to its popularity, and unfortunately, we encountered some disappointments during our visit. Our waiter seemed unaware of the special occasion we were celebrating, causing some frustration for our party. While the drinks and food were good, they didn’t leave a lasting impression. Some dishes were delightful, such as the Patas Bravas, but the paella fell short compared to other Spanish/Tapas restaurants we’ve tried. Although the service and kitchen timing were decent, El Five didn’t meet the high expectations one would expect from a restaurant of this caliber, especially on a special occasion.
On a brighter note, the recommendation from our son, who had previously dined here for a company dinner, turned out to be a highlight. The garlic puree accompanying various dishes was a delightful surprise, and we couldn’t get enough of it. The goat cheese croquetas, eggplant fries, rabbit confit, and chickpea tacos were all exceptional choices. The sangria, featuring frozen strawberries, added a refreshing twist to our dining experience. Prices were reasonable for the quality of food we enjoyed, making El Five a restaurant we’d gladly revisit.
Be aware that El Five can get quite busy on weekends, so reservations are highly recommended. With a menu featuring Spanish and Mediterranean delights and its proximity to several nearby bars, it’s no wonder why this restaurant remains a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
Service options: Dine-in · Takeaway · No-contact delivery
Address: 2930 Umatilla St Unit #500, Denver, CO 80211, United States
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 11 PM
Menu: ediblebeats.com
Reservations: opentable.com
Order: ubereats.com, postmates.com
Phone: +1 303-524-9193
3. Root Down
Root Down in Denver is undoubtedly a gem among the city’s dining establishments, and it quickly became our favorite during our week-long visit. We made reservations for 5:30 pm, allowing us to enjoy both the happy hour and dinner menus. The two menus overlapped, giving us the opportunity to savor a delightful array of dishes. From the happy hour menu, the duck wings stood out with their bold jerk seasoning and an enticing East Indian spice influence. For those who relish a kick of spice, the duck wings are a must-try. The lamb slider, available on both menus, impressed us with its perfectly cooked patty boasting a delightful Middle Eastern flavor profile. Equally alluring was the arepa, a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and a hint of spiciness that left us craving for more.
We couldn’t resist ordering extra servings of the lamb slider and arepa, but our voice of reason, my wife, gently persuaded us to explore other menu delights. The Devils on Horseback proved to be a hit, a burst of flavors in each skewered bite. The lamb entree, featuring two succulent t-bone lamb pieces accompanied by couscous and diced lamb sausage, pleased our palates and showcased a perfect harmony of complementary ingredients.
Root Down’s menu is a culinary journey around the globe, and the restaurant masterfully does justice to each cuisine, creating a harmonious blend rather than a hodge-podge of flavors. The impeccable and attentive service elevated our dining experience, and the well-crafted drinks were a fitting complement to the scrumptious dishes. The Chocolate Bombe dessert was the ideal ending, with a delightful combination of flavors that struck the perfect balance.
Root Down’s commitment to farm-to-table cuisine was evident in the exceptional freshness and originality of their dishes. Even with gluten or celiac issues, the restaurant went above and beyond to accommodate dietary restrictions, making it a highly recommended choice for those with dietary sensitivities.
I had the pleasure of visiting Root Down at the Denver airport for lunch, and I was blown away by the experience. The service was quick, and the food was simply great. The turkey sandwich I ordered was delicious, but the highlight was the unforgettable sweet potato fries paired with a Lime Curry sauce. It was a culinary delight that I would return for without a second thought.
On another occasion, I visited the restaurant with my family for dinner. The ambience was charming, and the service exceeded our expectations. As a vegetarian, my wife’s options can sometimes be limited, but she was delighted with the selection offered at Root Down, further adding to our positive experience.
In conclusion, Root Down leaves an indelible impression with its rich, flavorful, and expertly crafted food, complemented by wonderful customer service and a warm, inviting ambiance. Whether you visit for dinner or a quick airport lunch, Root Down is sure to fascinate and satisfy even the most discerning of diners.
Service options: Dine-in · Takeaway · No-contact delivery
Address: 1600 W 33rd Ave, Denver, CO 80211, United States
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 10:30 PM
Menu: ediblebeats.com
Reservations: opentable.com
Order: ubereats.com, postmates.com
Phone: +1 303-993-4200
4. Rioja
Rioja in Denver comes highly recommended, and it’s easy to see why. The restaurant boasts a great wine selection and impresses with a beautifully arranged cheese and meat tray. However, our experience with the pasta dishes left us feeling disappointed. Despite our eagerness to love them, the flavors and ingredients just didn’t seem to work together. We wished we had tried some of the enticing main entrees, but unfortunately, we didn’t get the chance. While I wouldn’t discourage others from trying Rioja, I’m not personally inclined to return. On a positive note, the table staff was commendable, providing attentive service throughout our visit. One highlight that stood out was the delightful lavender bread, a unique and flavorful treat.
My sister, on the other hand, had a much more enjoyable dinner at Rioja. Thanks to Justin, their fantastic waiter, the evening was perfect. He offered excellent suggestions and provided impeccable service. They decided to split a steak and a delicious pasta dish, both of which were thoroughly satisfying. With reservations, they were seated promptly, setting the stage for a wonderful night.
During an amazing business dinner at Rioja, our group shared the “picnic” appetizer and a variety of other delightful dishes. The artichoke pasta and octopus impressed with their wonderful flavors, and the lamb duet left me equally satisfied. I wholeheartedly recommend this restaurant for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience.
As a repeat customer, I’ve come to love Rioja’s food, whether it’s for a more upscale dinner at the chef’s table seating or a casual lunch/brunch. Their dishes consistently deliver quality and are accompanied by friendly service.
Rioja earns high marks for how they treat solo diners, particularly women, and I was thoroughly impressed with the attentive and respectful service I received. The wait staff paid equal attention to me as other diners, making me feel appreciated as a customer. They even offered me tastes of wines to help me decide, and I ended up enjoying a delicious Spanish white. The food was an absolute delight, from the delectable carrot soup to the flavorful duck breast and fig beignets. Although I missed out on the bone marrow due to its preparation time, the entire experience was perfection. The restaurant’s respect and care for solo diners, combined with outstanding taste and presentation, provided the perfect ending to my Denver trip.
Service options: Dine-in · Takeaway · No-contact delivery
Located in: Larimer Square
Address: 1431 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 11 PM
Menu: riojadenver.com
Reservations: riojadenver.com
Phone: +1 303-820-2282
5. Mercantile Dining and Provision
Mercantile Dining and Provision in Denver offers an exceptional dining experience, especially considering its airport location. Our morning before flying home was made memorable, thanks to Dan the Man’s amazing service. The food was absolutely delicious, and the restaurant’s clean and professional environment added to the overall appeal. We were thrilled to have such a quality establishment within Denver International Airport (DEA).
Having dined in various top-quality restaurants in Scottsdale, AZ, my wife and I decided to escape the record-setting heatwave and explore Denver’s dining scene. Mercantile came highly recommended by our son, and it did not disappoint. The service, led by Arlene and the crew, was top-notch, and the manager, Bill, introduced himself, further enhancing our dining experience. The lamb and pork chop were delightful main courses, and the starters, including carrots, mushrooms, and pasta, left us feeling fully satisfied. The moderately priced wine list was a pleasant surprise. Needless to say, we will be returning to Mercantile for more exceptional dining experiences.
Mercantile offers a nice ambiance and serves fresh, good-quality food that surpasses many others. Although not the absolute best we’ve ever had, it certainly stands above the competition. While my main course took a bit longer than my dinner guest’s, we took it in stride and enjoyed our meal nevertheless.
Sitting at the bar, sipping coffee and eating Oatmeal, we were greeted by a cheery and positive staff that added a warm touch to our dining experience. Their enthusiasm was contagious, leaving us with a smile as we enjoyed our meal.
In conclusion, Mercantile Dining and Provision is a true gem with outstanding food, professional service, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re flying through Denver International Airport or seeking a quality dining experience in the city, Mercantile is a definite must-visit destination.
Service options: Dine-in · Kerbside pickup · No delivery
Address: 1701 Wynkoop St #155, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 10 PM
Menu: mercantiledenver.com
Reservations: exploretock.com
Order: toasttab.com
Phone: +1 720-460-3733
6. Work & Class
Work & Class in Denver is a wonderful dining destination that leaves a lasting impression with its welcoming ambiance and friendly staff. During my visit with a friend, we indulged in an array of dishes, including appetizers, main courses, and sides. Each dish showcased a unique and delicious flavor profile, making the entire dining experience both delightful and distinctive. I’m already looking forward to returning for another incredible meal.
My solo visit during a work trip proved to be just as fantastic as I seated myself at the kitchen bench, offering a captivating view of the kitchen in action. I decided to try a variety of dishes, including the spicy chicken pot pie, the lamb, the onion-braised greens (my personal favorite), and the seasonal cobbler. Every item was a burst of flavors, and the attentive and friendly staff added to the overall enjoyment. I can’t wait to return with a group of friends to explore even more of the menu offerings.
The ambiance at Work & Class exudes a great vibe, and their house mule is an absolute standout. The chicken pie with its succulent chicken, crisp pastry, and hint of spice left a lasting impression. The lamb poutine was also a winner, making it a highly recommended spot. However, be sure to arrive early to avoid long queues.
My husband and I had an outstanding experience at Work & Class. The hostess, service, and food were all top-notch. The casual seating arrangement allowed us to engage with our neighboring diners, enhancing the overall atmosphere. The lamb, plantains, and special dish, along with the key lime pie, all stood out with their excellent flavors. We can’t wait to return for another delightful experience.
Work & Class offers a fun and vibrant environment with attentive service and exceptional food. The family-style dining approach allows you to try various dishes, making the experience even more enjoyable. The green chili lamb & pork meatballs with cheesy grits were a delectable start.
For entrees, the deep-fried trout, lemon pepper brown butter rotisserie chicken, and coriander-roasted Colorado lamb were all outstanding, with the trout taking the lead. The seasonal roasted veggies with almond pesto and Brussels sprouts with pears were both scrumptious, leaving us torn between which was better.
Despite being stuffed from the delicious meal, we couldn’t resist ordering desserts to go. The vanilla bean panna cotta with seasonal berry compote, chocolate pecan brownie with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream, and key lime pie with whipped cream and candied lime zest were all indulgent and satisfying. The panna cotta stood out as the favorite among the group.
In summary, Work & Class is a gem of a restaurant, offering fantastic food, friendly service, and an inviting atmosphere. Whether you visit with friends, family, or solo, this place promises an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you eager to return for more.
Service options: Dine-in · Takeaway · Delivery
Address: 2500 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205, United States
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 11 PM
Menu: toasttab.com
Order: toasttab.com
Phone: +1 303-292-0700
7. Señor Bear
Señor Bear in Denver is an outstanding dining destination that promises an unforgettable experience of delectable food and an inviting atmosphere. The menu offers a plethora of mouthwatering options that are perfect for sharing, allowing diners to indulge in a variety of dishes. During our visit, we savored the empanadas, ribeye, and chicken, all of which were simply delicious. A must-try dessert is the churros, a delightful way to conclude a delightful meal.
As passionate lovers of Spanish/Mexican cuisine and experienced travelers, we have tasted some of the best tacos in various cities. However, the tacos at Señor Bear surpassed all others we’ve tried, earning the title of the best we’ve ever had. But the taco perfection is not the only highlight; the rest of the menu also delivers on its promise of great flavors.
Our dining experience at Señor Bear with another couple was an absolute delight. The concept of sharing every dish added an element of fun and camaraderie to the meal. The passion fruit drink and old-fashioned cocktails set the tone for the evening. The BBQ chicken empanadas with avocado sauce were a delicious start, followed by the meat platter with yuca and coconut rice. The platter, featuring flavorful steak, juicy chicken, and divine bone marrow, left us wanting more. The chorizo was a standout and disappeared in no time. The meal culminated with a delightful round of churros, a definite must-try.
The service at Señor Bear was exceptional, with attentive waiters who answered our questions and catered to our needs. While the bar area’s music was a bit loud for our liking, we found a perfect table and thoroughly enjoyed the faultless service and mouthwatering food.
The excellent food at Señor Bear extends beyond the tacos, as evidenced by the delicious jerk chicken and coconut rice, along with mezcal margs that hit the spot. The churros provided a fantastic ending to an exceptional meal. The restaurant maintains a comfortable distance between tables and ensures proper sanitization, making guests feel at ease and safe during their visit.
In conclusion, Señor Bear in Denver is a true culinary gem, offering an array of flavorful dishes meant for sharing and creating a memorable dining experience. The outstanding food, responsive service, and inviting atmosphere make Señor Bear a must-visit restaurant for anyone seeking a taste of elevated Spanish/Mexican cuisine in Denver.
Service options: Dine-in · Kerbside pickup · Delivery
Address: 3301 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211, United States
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 11 PM
Menu: senorbeardenver.com
Reservations: opentable.com
Order: seamless.com, trycaviar.com, toasttab.com, grubhub.com, doordash.com
Phone: +1 720-572-5997
8. Yard House
Yard House in downtown Denver is a fantastic spot to hang out, offering a great selection of burgers and an impressive chicken tenders starter that could easily pass as a meal on its own. The wait staff was incredibly friendly and provided prompt service, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. With plenty of screens in the dining room, sports enthusiasts can catch their favorite games while enjoying a delicious meal.
During our 5-night stay in Denver, Yard House became a go-to destination for us. The service was quick and efficient, and the beer selection was top-notch. The smoked old fashioned was a delightful treat, and the jumbo-sized wings were a hit. What truly set Yard House apart was the screens at the table, providing entertainment for the entire family.
Our lunch visit to Yard House left us impressed with the generous portion sizes and the delicious salads we ordered. The atmosphere was enjoyable, and the service was great. Considering our positive experience, we even considered coming back before leaving town.
A group of five of us enjoyed a wonderful meal at Yard House, with the server Josie making the experience truly incredible. The queso dip appetizer was a hit, and the Maui Pineapple Chicken dish was delicious enough that I took half of it home for leftovers. Josie’s attentive and friendly service left us eager to return for another meal.
Yard House offers a vast beer selection in a large and noisy brewery/pub setting. The burgers were sizable and tasty, accompanied by excellent fries. Due to its popularity among Sheraton hotel guests and convention attendees, the restaurant can get busy, so be prepared for a potential wait on busy nights.
In summary, Yard House in Denver is a lively and welcoming spot with friendly service, delicious food, and an impressive beer selection. Whether you’re looking for a casual hangout or a place to catch the game, Yard House caters to all your needs with a delightful dining experience.
Service options: Dine-in · Kerbside pickup · No delivery
Located in: Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel
Address: 1555 Court Pl, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 12 AM
Menu: yardhouse.com
Order: yardhouse.com
Phone: +1 303-572-9273
9. ChoLon Modern Asian
ChoLon Modern Asian in Denver is an absolute delight for the tastebuds, making it a highly recommended destination for anyone visiting the city. The restaurant offers a wonderful fusion of Southeast Asian and Colorodan cuisine, creating a unique and memorable dining experience.
During our visit, we arrived around 3 pm during happy hour, where everything on the menu was transformed into delightful finger foods. We decided to try a variety of dishes, including the pork potstickers, General Cho’s soup dumpling, scallion flatbread, salt & pepper calamari, and Korean hot fried chicken slider. While all the dishes were delicious, the Korean hot fried chicken slider and pork potstickers stood out as our favorites.
The standout dish for many was the French onion soup dumpling, leaving a lasting impression that we couldn’t stop thinking about. The service was exceptional, with the staff providing great recommendations to enhance our dining experience.
While most of the food was a hit, we found that the wagyu beef in the Indonesian fried rice was a bit tough to chew. The general Cho soup dumpling, scallion pancake, and stir-fried Malaysian noodles were delightful additions to the meal.
For those who appreciate unique flavors, the Grilled BBQ pork chop with papaya salad and tamarin dressing may be an interesting choice. However, it didn’t entirely meet our liking, as the pork appeared undercooked and cold. The attentive staff clarified that the pork was prepared using sous vide, ensuring it was fully cooked and safe to eat. While some may enjoy this dish, it might be helpful to have a more detailed description on the menu to set appropriate expectations.
In conclusion, ChoLon Modern Asian offers an incredible culinary experience with a variety of delightful dishes that showcase the fusion of Southeast Asian and Colorodan influences. The outstanding dumplings, scallion pancake, and stir-fried noodles make it a must-visit restaurant in Denver. Despite a few minor hiccups with certain dishes, the restaurant’s cool atmosphere and attentive service leave a positive and lasting impression.
Service options: Dine-in · Takeaway · Delivery
Address: 1555 Blake St #101, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 11 PM
Menu: cholon.com
Reservations: cholon.com, opentable.com
Order: toasttab.com, doordash.com, trycaviar.com
Phone: +1 303-353-5223
10. Guard and Grace
Guard and Grace in Denver promises an exceptional dining experience, known for its exquisite steaks and attentive service. During my visit with a friend, we arrived at 5:30 pm and were promptly seated at a spacious table. The server was friendly and knowledgeable, providing excellent recommendations from the menu.
I opted for a 1/2 salad, a 4 oz Wagyu medium-rare filet, and a side of Brussels sprouts, while my friend ordered the cod. As we savored the salads, my friend offered me a taste of the cod, which was delicious. However, when we both tasted the filet, we were taken aback by its excessive saltiness. Our server quickly noticed our reaction and promptly addressed the issue. The manager was gracious and apologetic, offering to comp the filet, although I declined the offer.
Despite the hiccup with the filet, the overall dining experience was commendable. The restaurant’s ambiance was beautiful, and the service was outstanding, with attentive staff promptly attending to our needs. The water glasses were consistently filled, and used plates were promptly cleared between courses.
While the food was good, the ribeye’s price felt steep compared to the quality, as it didn’t surpass some I’ve had at home. The sides, priced at $25, were enjoyable but lacked a distinctive touch.
On a positive note, the wagyu filet was exceptional when ordered rare, and the French Dip also left a lasting impression. The spot offered excellent food with fair prices, and the service truly stood out.
My dining experience was exceptional, with every dish earning a perfect 10/10 rating. The burger and regular fries, along with the 1/2 portion of the wedge salad and sashimi with jalapeños, were all delicious. The cod was also a standout. Our waiter, Drew, was exceptional, providing helpful and attentive service with a great personality. The freshly baked chocolate chip cookies were a delightful ending to a memorable meal.
Overall, Guard and Grace delivers an outstanding dining experience with its delectable food and attentive service. Despite the slight misstep with the filet, I am eager to return during my next visit to Denver and give it another try, hopeful that the exceptional experience will be consistent.
Service options: Dine-in · Kerbside pickup · Delivery
Address: 1801 California St, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 11 PM
Menu: guardandgrace.com
Reservations: guardandgrace.com, opentable.com
Phone: +1 303-293-8500
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the best restaurants in Denver will leave you with a gastronomic experience to cherish. So, bring your appetite, an open mind, and prepare to be amazed as Denver’s culinary prowess delights your senses and leaves you craving for more. Bon appétit!
