25 Essential Denver Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Denver.
India Express Denver
Colorado
Indian eatery serving a variety of classic dishes in a casual setup with a lunch buffet & full bar.
Corinne Denver
Colorado
Upscale American eatery and bar with a warm, relaxed vibe at the stylish Le Méridien hotel.
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
Colorado
Upscale Brazilian chain for all-you-can-eat meat carved tableside plus an extensive salad bar.
Fish N Beer
Denver, Colorado
Oysters, grilled fish & creative seafood plates in a tiny, retro-toned space with a full bar.
Temaki Den
Denver, Colorado
Sushi, sake & cocktails offered in a roomy, industrial-style venue with happy-hour specials.
JINYA Ramen Bar - Union Station
Denver, Colorado
Service options: No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great beer selection, Great cocktails.
The Brutal Poodle
Denver, Colorado
Gastropub grub, inventive cocktails & beer are served in quirky, rock-themed surroundings.
Oblio's
Denver, Colorado
Family-friendly spot serving creative pies with familiar toppings & homestyle Italian dishes.
Mezcaleria Alma
Denver, Colorado
Service options: Outdoor seating, Onsite services, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great cocktails. Popular for: Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
Zaman Mediterranean Fresh
Denver, Colorado
Service options: Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch.
Hopdoddy Burger Bar
Denver, Colorado
Sleek setting for craft brew & extra-large burgers topped high with indulgent ingredients.
The Kitchen American Bistro
Denver, Colorado
Stylish bar and bistro serving up craft cocktails and a menu of elevated international dishes.
Cocinita Mexicana: To-Go | Delivery | Catering
Denver, Colorado
Identifies as Latino-owned, Identifies as women-owned. Service options: Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch.
Ohana Island Kitchen
Denver, Colorado
Poke, Kalua pork & other Hawaiian plates in a small, bright luncheonette with picnic tables.
Linger
Denver, Colorado
This old mortuary is now a lively restaurant with a rooftop lounge & global small plates.
The Porchetta House
Denver, Colorado
Service options: Outdoor seating, Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service.
Steuben's Uptown
Denver, Colorado
Classic regional American favorites and cocktails make up the menu at this lively, retro-style diner.
Max Gill & Grill
Denver, Colorado
Surf 'n' turf in a casual setting with patio known for its daily deals, including oysters & sangria.
SliceWorks
Denver, Colorado
Easygoing pizzeria & bar serving NY-style pizzas by the pie or slice, plus pastas & subs.
el Camino
Denver, Colorado
Mexican kitchen with artsy ambiance using area-sourced ingredients, known for happy hour & brunch.
J's Noodles Star Thai
Denver, Colorado
No-frills restaurant specializing in traditional Thai dishes including pad Thai & drunken noodles.
Rocky Top Tavern
Denver, Colorado
Build-your-own burgers & craft beer served in a cool spot with big-screen TVs, pool & arcade games.
Kona Grill - Denver
Denver, Colorado
Sleek chain with a broad New American menu including low-calorie options, plus sushi & cocktails.
Culinary Dropout
Denver, Colorado
Cool, British-style gastropub chain with quirky decor, serving inventive cocktails & comfort food.
Javier's Diner
Denver, Colorado
Relaxed, inviting diner with an outdoor patio serving all sorts of American favorites.