The Best Restaurants in Denver Colorado
Denver, Colorado, famously known as the Mile High City, has quickly become a top destination for food lovers nationwide.
Boasting diverse neighborhoods, a bold sense of adventure, and a dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients, the city’s restaurants provide an exceptional dining experience, perfectly complementing its stunning mountain backdrop.
Whether you’re seeking an intimate chef’s counter with a multi-course tasting menu and expertly paired wines or craving authentic street tacos and the best green chile around, Denver delivers.
The city’s vibrant culinary scene offers something for everyone, from Michelin-starred eateries led by James Beard Award-winning chefs to cozy spots serving cherished, time-honored dishes passed down through generations.
Denver’s Acclaimed Restaurants
Denver has emerged as a culinary hotspot, attracting food enthusiasts with its impressive roster of award-winning chefs and restaurants.
The city offers a chance to experience the exceptional service, creative cuisine, and carefully curated tasting menus that Michelin-starred dining is known for.
Among Denver’s standout restaurants are Fruition, Frasca Food & Wine, Safta, and Wolf’s Tailor—each led by visionary chefs pushing the boundaries of culinary art.
Fruition
- Location: 1313 E 6th Ave, Denver, CO 80218-3453
- Contact: +1 303-831-1962
At first glance, Fruition may seem modest, but its commitment to farm-to-table excellence is anything but ordinary.
Helmed by James Beard Award-winner Chef Alex Seidel, Fruition offers a seasonal menu that transforms high-quality, sustainable ingredients into exquisite dishes. Michelin 2024 restaurant.
Seidel’s culinary mastery and attention to detail make Fruition a must-visit for those seeking an unforgettable dining experience.
- Highlights:
- Impeccable service that elevates the entire experience.
- Standout dishes include golden-brown latkes with smoked trout roe and seared scallops.
- Playful offerings like the Nashville hot chicken-inspired maitake slider.
- Warm chocolate chip cookies for a delightful finish.
- Options for vegetarians, gluten-free, and vegan diners, plus an evolving tasting menu.
Barolo Grill
- Location: 3030 E 6th Ave, Denver, CO 80206-4328
- Contact: +1 303-393-1040
Known for its warm ambiance and authentic Northern Italian cuisine, Barolo Grill brings a touch of Italy to Denver.
The restaurant’s staff, who regularly visit Italy, provide expert guidance on their extensive wine list, with an emphasis on small, sustainable wineries.
Michelin 2024, Barolo Grill did it again!
Barolo Grill is ideal for special occasions or a memorable night out.
Highlights:
- Authentic Italian flavors inspired by frequent staff trips to Italy.
- Impressive wine selection, especially Barolos.
- Attentive, welcoming service.
- Seasonally driven menu featuring local ingredients.
- Signature dishes like handmade tortellini and braised duck with kalamata olives.
Mercantile Dining and Provision
- Location: 1705 Wynkoop St Ste 155, Denver, CO 80202-2197 (Union Station)
- Contact: +1 720-460-3733
Chef Alex Seidel brings his elevated American comfort food to Mercantile, located in the heart of Denver’s historic Union Station.
The restaurant combines warm hospitality with dishes that balance familiar flavors and innovative twists.
A Michelin Guide Recommended Restaurant in Colorado for the second year in a row!
Mercantile’s focus on sourcing top-tier ingredients shines through in its satisfying, generously portioned meals.
Highlights:
- Sizable portions with a focus on high-quality ingredients.
- Standout dishes include the beet salad and the perfectly cooked confit chicken.
- Don’t miss the rustic apple pie with Vin Santo sauce and smoked cinnamon.
- The historic Union Station setting adds charm to the experience.
- Seidel’s dedication to connecting diners with the origins of their food.
Tavernetta
- Location: 1889 16th St Mall, Denver, CO 80202 (Near Union Station)
- Contact: +1 720-605-1889
From the team behind the award-winning Frasca Hospitality Group,
offers fresh handmade pastas and a carefully curated selection of Italian wines in a lively, inviting atmosphere.
It’s the perfect spot to savor classic Italian flavors while enjoying attentive service in a beautiful space.
- Highlights:
- Authentic Italian dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients.
- Popular menu items include burrata, spaghetti all’amatriciana, and lamb ragu rigatoni.
- Don’t miss the classic tiramisu for dessert.
- Attentive service enhances the dining experience.
Rioja
- Location: 1431 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80202-1704
- Contact: +1 303-820-2282
A Denver institution, Rioja is renowned for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and hand-made pasta dishes.
The lively atmosphere complements the expertly crafted food, while the exhibition kitchen allows diners to watch the culinary magic unfold. Simple decor, including a copper-topped bar, lets the flavors shine.
Awards and Acclaim:
- James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef Southwest (2013).
- James Beard Foundation Semifinalist for Outstanding Chef (2016).
Guard and Grace
- Location: 1801 California Street, Lobby level of the CenturyLink Building at 18th and California, Denver, CO 80202
- Contact: +1 303-293-8500
Chef Troy Guard’s Guard and Grace is a contemporary Denver steakhouse offering a variety of prime cuts, including locally sourced grass-fed beef, certified Angus, and Wagyu.
This restaurant has won Open Table’s Diners’ Choice Award 2024 and has maintained it’s MICHELIN Guide recommended status!
With its wood-fired cooking and fresh seafood, the restaurant is a must-visit for steak lovers and offers vegetarian options to accommodate all guests.
Highlights:
- Wide selection of prime steaks, seafood, and artisanal cheeses.
- Extensive wine cellar with temperature-controlled storage.
- Perfect for an upscale dining experience in downtown Denver.
Iconic Denver Eats
Denver boasts a rich culinary history, with several iconic restaurants that have been serving up delicious meals long before the city gained its foodie reputation.
These beloved spots remain favorites among both locals and tourists, thanks to their time-honored recipes, nostalgic ambiance, and deep-rooted ties to Denver’s dining heritage.
From classic steakhouses to family-run diners, these establishments embody the down-to-earth, flavorful spirit of the Mile High City. Get ready to explore some of Denver’s most cherished dining destinations.
The Buckhorn Exchange
- Location: 1000 Osage St., Denver, CO 80204
- Contact: 303-534-9505
As a National Historic Landmark, The Buckhorn Exchange is as much a museum as it is a restaurant.
Founded in 1893, this storied establishment offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience steeped in Wild West history.
With its walls adorned with over 500 taxidermied animals and tales of visits from U.S. presidents, dining here feels like stepping back in time.
Highlights:
- Try unique frontier dishes like Rocky Mountain oysters, especially on Rocky Mountain Oyster Day.
- Imagine sharing a meal with Teddy Roosevelt, who dined here during his time.
- Explore the impressive collection of taxidermied wildlife for a true taste of history.
Sam’s No. 3
- Location: 1500 Curtis St, Denver, CO 80202
- Contact: 303-534-1927
Since 1927, Sam’s No. 3 has been a beloved part of Denver’s food scene, starting as a humble 19-stool soda fountain.
Now a bustling diner, it remains a favorite for locals seeking comfort food with a nostalgic touch.
With generous portions and a welcoming, casual atmosphere, Sam’s No. 3 offers a classic diner experience.
Highlights:
- A true Denver institution with a multi-generational family legacy.
- Don’t miss the famous Spero’s breakfast burrito smothered in their renowned pork green chile.
- Retro diner ambiance that’s perfect for a hearty meal any time of day.
Bastien’s Restaurant
- Location: 3503 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO 80206
- Contact: 303-322-0363
Bastien’s Restaurant, a Denver staple since 1937, offers a throwback dining experience with its mid-century Googie-style architecture and cozy, nostalgic atmosphere.
Inside, you’ll find a loyal following of patrons who come for the old-school charm and delicious, hearty meals, including the restaurant’s signature “sugar steak.”
Highlights:
- Famous for its one-of-a-kind “sugar steak,” a must-try Denver original.
- Unpretentious, old-school diner vibe that keeps locals coming back.
- Housed in a historic Googie-style building that’s an architectural gem.
My Brother’s Bar
- Location: 2376 15th St., Denver, CO 80202
- Contact: 303-455-9991
As the oldest continuously operating bar in Denver, My Brother’s Bar has been a beloved neighborhood watering hole since 1873.
Despite its lack of a sign, this unassuming spot continues to attract loyal regulars and newcomers alike with its relaxed atmosphere, cold beers, and iconic burgers.
Highlights:
- Enjoy the timeless charm of Denver’s oldest bar, with no frills, just great food and service.
- Try the legendary JCB – a jalapeño cream cheese burger that’s a crowd favorite.
- Now owned by a long-time employee, preserving its legacy for future generations.
Charlie Brown’s Bar & Grill
- Location: 980 Grant St., Denver, CO 80203
- Contact: 303-860-1655
Charlie Brown’s Bar & Grill has been a fixture on Capitol Hill since 1928, offering a lively, welcoming atmosphere that makes every guest feel like a regular.
With nightly piano sing-alongs, classic bar food, and generous happy hours, it’s the perfect spot to unwind while soaking in some Denver history.
Highlights:
- Enjoy nightly piano entertainment and sing along with other patrons.
- Indulge in large portions of bar favorites, with burritos being a local highlight.
- Two-for-one wine pours during their extended happy hours.
- You might even spot a celebrity, such as Bill Murray, stopping by to play piano!
Work & Class
- Location: 2500 Larimer St Ste 101, Denver, CO 80205 (RiNo)
- Contact: (303) 292-0700
Work & Class is known for its no-fuss, come-as-you-are atmosphere and hearty comfort food with a Latin and American twist.
Their communal dining experience lets you order rotisserie and braised meats by weight, making it perfect for sharing with friends.
Highlights:
- Hearty, flavorful meats like braised short ribs and rotisserie chicken.
- Blue corn empanadas and fried plantains add Latin flair to the menu.
- A great selection of spirits and cocktails in a laid-back setting.
Kumoya
- Location: 2400 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211 (LoHi)
- Contact: (303) 862-6664
Chef Corey Baker, celebrated for his sushi-making expertise, returns with Kumoya in Denver’s LoHi neighborhood.
The restaurant showcases Baker’s meticulous sushi and sashimi preparations, as well as Japanese-inspired dishes that highlight pristine seafood and traditional techniques.
Highlights:
- Impeccable sushi and sashimi made with the freshest ingredients.
- Dishes like miso-broiled eggplant and pork katsu sando add depth to the menu.
- Bar Kumo, the adjacent bar, offers late-night bites and playful cocktails.
Alma Fonda Fina
- Location: 2556 15th St, Denver, CO 80211
- Contact: (303) 455-9463
Alma Fonda Fina is a modern Mexican restaurant led by Chef Johnny Curiel.
The inviting atmosphere and Chef’s Counter experience allow diners to engage with the culinary team while savoring elevated Mexican cuisine that combines traditional flavors with creative flair.
Highlights:
- Complex and flavorful dishes like agave-roasted sweet potatoes and adobo-braised lamb shank.
- Curated selection of Baja California wines and signature cocktails, such as the avocado margarita.
- The Chef’s Counter offers a unique opportunity to watch the chefs in action and interact with them directly.
Denver’s Comfort Food Favorites
There’s nothing quite like the familiar flavors of comfort food to bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia.
Denver’s comfort food scene is filled with places that serve hearty, home-cooked meals sure to leave you feeling satisfied.
From classic diner fare to Southern-inspired dishes, these local favorites are guaranteed to hit the spot.
Steuben’s
- Location: 523 East 17th Avenue, Denver, CO 80203
- Contact: (303) 830-1001
Steuben’s is a lively neighborhood restaurant known for its classic American comfort food, with dishes that reflect the rich diversity of American cuisine.
Whether you’re craving a lobster roll or fried chicken, Steuben’s delivers handcrafted quality in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Highlights:
- Signature Dishes: Lobster roll, deviled eggs, Cubano sandwich, green chili cheeseburger, fried chicken.
- Media Recognition: Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, and praised by Bon Appetit, The New York Times, and 5280.
- Inclusive Atmosphere: Gluten-free and allergy-friendly options ensure everyone can enjoy their favorites.
- Late Night Happy Hour: A hotspot for after-hours drinks and deals.
- Takeout Available: Enjoy comfort food at home with their takeout menu.
Denver Biscuit Co.
If you’re looking for Southern-style comfort food, Denver Biscuit Co. is the place to be.
Known for its massive, fluffy biscuits, this popular spot offers gourmet biscuit sandwiches and scratch-made sides in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
It’s the perfect spot to indulge in some down-home cooking with a unique twist.
Highlights:
- The Franklin Sandwich: A must-try! Opt for a classic or go for a spicy Nashville hot chicken version.
- Massive Biscuits: The star of the menu, baked fresh daily and used in creative, hearty sandwiches.
- Scratch-Made Goodness: Every dish is made with care, from the biscuits to the savory sides.
- Welcoming Atmosphere: The cozy, homey vibe will make you feel like you’re dining at Grandma’s table.
El Taco De Mexico
- Location: 714 Santa Fe Dr, Denver, CO 80204
- Contact: +1 303-623-3926
El Taco De Mexico may be unassuming in appearance, but this traditional taqueria has been serving up authentic Mexico City flavors since 1985.
Winner of the James Beard America’s Classics Award, it’s a beloved spot for those seeking real, no-frills Mexican comfort food.
Highlights:
- Authentic Mexico City Flavors: Enjoy the genuine taste of Mexico City cuisine, from tacos to enchiladas.
- Legendary Recipes: The recipes are closely guarded secrets, creating unmatched depth of flavor in every dish.
- Unassuming Atmosphere: A down-to-earth taqueria where the food speaks for itself.
- Time-Honored Tradition: A staple in Denver’s culinary scene for over three decades.
The Cookery at Myrtle Hill
- Location: 1020 S Gaylord St, Denver, CO 80209
- Contact: +1 303-733-7448
Nestled in the heart of South Gaylord Street, The Cookery at Myrtle Hill is a neighborhood gem offering comforting American breakfasts and lunches.
Known for its inviting atmosphere and diverse menu, this spot is perfect for a casual brunch or a hearty midday meal.
Highlights:
- Loyal Following: Locals keep coming back for the consistent, high-quality dishes.
- Sister Concept to Devil’s Food Bakery: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a pastry from the bakery next door.
- Welcoming Atmosphere: Perfect for small groups looking to enjoy a relaxed, cozy brunch.
- Diverse Menu: From breakfast sandwiches and quiches to a comforting chicken pot pie, there’s something for every taste.
These comfort food favorites in Denver are more than just restaurants—they’re community hubs where locals and visitors alike come to enjoy hearty, soul-warming meals. Whether you’re in the mood for Southern-style biscuits or classic American diner fare, Denver’s comfort food scene has something for everyone.
Global Eats in Denver
Denver’s rich diversity of cultures is reflected in its vibrant food scene, offering a culinary journey across continents without ever leaving the city.
From hidden neighborhood gems to established local favorites, Denver’s global cuisine allows you to experience the warmth and hospitality of cultures from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and beyond.
Here are some must-try spots to begin your international food adventure.
Anise, Modern Vietnamese Eatery
- Location: 865 N Lincoln St, Denver, CO 80203-2709
- Contact: +1 303-830-3934
Anise offers a fresh take on Vietnamese cuisine, blending traditional flavors with creative twists.
Their menu features familiar favorites like pho alongside unexpected dishes that elevate the dining experience.
With fresh ingredients, craft beer, and a welcoming atmosphere, Anise is a great place for casual dining with a modern Vietnamese flair.
Highlights:
- Modern Vietnamese Cuisine: Innovative yet comforting dishes.
- Varied Menu: Fresh, high-quality ingredients with diverse offerings.
- Craft Beer & Full Bar: A surprising craft beer selection complements the flavors of Vietnam.
- Easy Accessibility: Walk-ins welcome, making it a great spot for spontaneous outings.
- Must-Try Dishes: Pho, Pork Banh Mi bites, Vietnamese crepes.
Gattara
- Location: 1776 Grant Street, Warwick Hotel, Suite 117, Denver, CO 80203
- Contact: +1 303-318-7272
Gattara channels the warmth and hospitality of Italian tradition, offering a contemporary spin on classic Italian dishes.
Located in the heart of Denver, the restaurant’s chic, mod-inspired design and copper-clad brick oven set the scene for a lively, relaxed dining experience.
With a menu crafted by Chef Mimmo Faid, Gattara showcases hand-tossed pizzas, fresh starters, and a creative cocktail menu.
Highlights:
- Modern Italian Cuisine: Locally sourced ingredients elevate traditional dishes.
- Hand-Tossed Pizzas: Cooked in a signature brick oven for that perfect crispy crust.
- Inviting Atmosphere: Dine on the outdoor patio or in the stylish main dining room.
- Perfect For: Cat lovers, Italian food enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a sophisticated yet lively dining experience.
Safta (Israeli)
- Location: 3330 Brighton Blvd #201, Denver, CO 80216
- Contact: +1 720-408-2444
Safta welcomes diners with the vibrant flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean, bringing the warmth of Israeli hospitality to Denver.
Their menu celebrates seasonal ingredients and bold spices, offering dishes that burst with color and flavor.
From lamb shawarma to creamy hummus served with fresh pita, Safta delivers an authentic Israeli dining experience that will transport your taste buds.
Highlights:
- Israeli Hospitality: A warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects the generosity of the region.
- Bold Flavors: Signature dishes like lamb shawarma and hummus.
- Seasonal Ingredients: A focus on fresh, local produce to enhance every dish.
Annette (French-Inspired)
- Location: 2501 Dallas St STE 108, Aurora, CO 80010
- Contact: +1 720-710-9975
For a touch of Paris in Denver, head to Annette, a French-inspired restaurant offering classic dishes with a contemporary twist.
The cozy atmosphere of a Parisian bistro sets the stage for enjoying timeless favorites like steak frites and chocolate mousse.
With elegantly plated dishes and an intimate setting, Annette brings the charm and flavors of France to your table.
Highlights:
- French Classics: Relish in dishes like steak frites and decadent desserts.
- Modern Flair: A contemporary spin on traditional French cuisine.
- Parisian Ambiance: Cozy, chic setting ideal for a romantic dinner or casual gathering.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Denver’s food scene is an ever-evolving tapestry of global flavors, offering an array of culinary experiences for adventurous eaters.
Whether you’re craving bold Israeli spices, classic Vietnamese comfort food, or a refined French dining experience, the city has it all.
Each neighborhood brings something new to discover, from award-winning chefs to hidden local gems.
Now is the time to embark on your own culinary journey through Denver.
Explore different neighborhoods, try cuisines from around the world, and uncover your new favorite dining spots.
Let your taste buds lead the way, and don’t forget to share your delicious Denver discoveries with fellow food lovers!
