The food scene in Denver is thriving, with a focus on sustainable, local ingredients and menus that revolve seasonally. With Asian, European and South American influences, the best dinner spots in Denver all have one thing in common: excellent food made with fresh ingredients. Here are just a few of the restaurants we recommend:
Root Down
Root down has a unique and casual dining atmosphere where ingredients are certified organic, and fresh herbs and vegetables are harvested from the rooftop and patio gardens. Choose from creative dishes with creative names. The décor is elegant but relaxed. Service is excellent without being stuffy. And the patio and deck are still one of the best in town, featuring great views of downtown. Great for special occasions too.
Rioja
The menu at Rioja changes seasonally, but rest assured, you’ll be completely satisfied with your meal here. Head chef, Jennifer Jasinski was the winner of the James Beard Foundation Best Chef Southwest and a finalist on Top Chef Masters! Romantic and perfect for special occasions with an exceptional wine list, notable chef, and an open plan kitchen – be sure to check this place out!
Table 6
Table 6 offers fabulous bread, upscale New American comfort food with an eclectic, unconventional twist. Simple dishes are delivered with an elegant style and grace! The space is cozy, rustic and casual but attractive, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu changes frequently and the expansive wine list includes port and Champagne.
ChoLon
With the feel of an upscale restaurant, this restaurant takes typical Asian foods to new levels. And the presentation is almost as amazing as the dishes. Your meal will definitely be Instagram-worthy! Our favorites are the pork belly buns and the soup dumplings with sweet onion and gruyere.
Uncle
This hipster place serving modern food is guaranteed to impress. It’s a small neighborhood restaurant located in the lower highlands near downtown Denver. Whether you’re a big ramen eater or not you’ll leave a devout Uncle fan. They’ve twisted this traditional Japanese staple with authentic ideas to create new ramen styles and Asian influenced dishes. (Think fried green tomato and kimchi noodles!) Food is full of flavor and tastes fresh. No wonder a line forms before it even opens!
Izakaya Den
Izakaya Den is a popular Japanese gastro pub serving global top-notch cuisine. It boasts a gorgeous, two-story space featuring an upstairs lounge with a retractable roof and one of the best patios in town. Izakaya Den exudes a sexy atmosphere with candles and soft music playing, something that’s unusual outside of downtown, making it a great date spot. The menu is tapas style, traditional Japanese plates along with international flavored dishes and incredibly fresh seafood. They offer a sushi-making class too!
