Introduction
Denver has become one of the most exciting food destinations in the United States. Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, this vibrant city blends culinary creativity with local charm, offering a variety of eateries that reflect its eclectic spirit. Whether you’re looking for rooftop views, hidden speakeasies, gourmet street food, or elegant farm-to-table dining, the city’s restaurant scene is as diverse as its breathtaking landscapes.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a flavorful journey through the coolest restaurants in Denver, spotlighting everything from award-winning hotspots to emerging local favorites. Whether you’re visiting or a longtime local looking for new gems, this list has something for every palate.
What Makes a Denver Restaurant “Cool”?
Before we dive into our top picks, let’s define what “cool” really means in the context of Denver’s food scene:
- Unique Ambiance – From artistic décor to mountaintop views, a cool restaurant in Denver knows how to create an unforgettable atmosphere.
- Innovative Menus – Fusion flavors, seasonal local ingredients, and daring dishes make these spots a foodie’s dream.
- Cultural Identity – Whether it’s Latin American soul or modern Korean barbecue, the city’s best restaurants often embrace a strong cultural influence.
- Buzz and Popularity – A mix of hype and substance, these places often top lists, garner media attention, and keep reservations booked.
- Neighborhood Vibe – Many cool restaurants are nestled in Denver’s hippest districts, like RiNo, LoDo, and Capitol Hill.
Let’s explore the best of them.
1. Root Down
Location: 1600 W 33rd Ave, Denver, CO 80211
Neighborhood: Highland
Cuisine: Eclectic, Farm-to-Table
Website: rootdowndenver.com
Root Down is the definition of trendy meets sustainable. Housed in a converted filling station, this restaurant offers a globally inspired menu made with locally sourced ingredients. From sweet potato falafel to bison short ribs, every dish is crafted with care.
Why It’s Cool:
- 100% wind-powered restaurant
- Industrial-chic décor and skyline views
- Focus on sustainable and organic ingredients
- Vegan and gluten-free friendly
Must-Try Dish: Colorado Lamb Sliders with harissa aioli
Recommended Article: Farm-to-Table Dining Across America
2. El Five
Location: 2930 Umatilla St, Denver, CO 80211
Neighborhood: LoHi
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Tapas
Website: elfivedenver.com
Located on the fifth floor of a LoHi building, El Five boasts panoramic views of the Denver skyline and the Rocky Mountains. It’s a rooftop restaurant with an electric Mediterranean menu, drawing inspiration from Spain, Morocco, Israel, and beyond.
Why It’s Cool:
- Jaw-dropping sunset views
- Retro-funky ambiance with Middle Eastern flair
- Mezze plates perfect for sharing
- Killer cocktails like the Saffron Gin and Tonic
Must-Try Dish: Smoked Burrata with charred romesco
Recommended Article: Top Rooftop in the U.S.
3. The Wolf’s Tailor
Location: 4058 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211
Neighborhood: Sunnyside
Cuisine: Asian-Italian Fusion
Website: thewolfstailor.com
An innovative blend of Italian and Asian cuisines, The Wolf’s Tailor is a chef-driven experience that’s earned national recognition. The open kitchen, minimalist design, and fermentation-forward menu make this restaurant a true culinary playground.
Why It’s Cool:
- Michelin star recipient
- Hyper-seasonal tasting menus
- Foraged ingredients and house-made pasta
- Garden-to-table philosophy
Must-Try Dish: Charred octopus with kimchi and squid ink spaghetti
4. Linger
Location: 2030 W 30th Ave, Denver, CO 80211
Neighborhood: LoHi
Cuisine: Global Street Food
Website: lingerdenver.com
What used to be a mortuary is now one of Denver’s liveliest restaurants. Linger serves up international street food in a funky space that plays into its former life with tongue-in-cheek décor and menus.
Why It’s Cool:
- Housed in the former Olinger Mortuary
- Rooftop bar with skyline views
- Combines flavors from Asia, Africa, and the Americas
- Vintage vibe with garage doors and old-school lightboxes
Must-Try Dish: Korean BBQ tacos and sweet potato waffle fries with curry aioli
Recommended Article: Haunted and Historic Eats in America
5. Safta
Location: 3330 Brighton Blvd #201, Denver, CO 80216
Neighborhood: RiNo
Cuisine: Israeli, Middle Eastern
Website: eatwithsafta.com
Safta, which means “grandmother” in Hebrew, brings authentic Middle Eastern cuisine to Denver’s hip RiNo district. Celebrity chef Alon Shaya leads the kitchen, offering fresh-baked pita, creamy hummus, and boldly spiced meats.
Why It’s Cool:
- Wood-fired oven centerpiece
- Open, airy modern design
- Women-led culinary team
- Warm hospitality and rich cultural roots
Must-Try Dish: Lamb Ragu Hummus with harissa oil
Recommended Article: The Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in New York
Location: 1260 25th St, Denver, CO 80205
Neighborhood: RiNo
Cuisine: Latin American Dim Sum
Website: supermegabien.com
Super Mega Bien is a bold experiment in Latin American cuisine served dim sum-style. The concept combines the shareable, fast-paced nature of dim sum with flavorful dishes from Cuba, Peru, Mexico, and beyond.
Why It’s Cool:
- Food served from roaming carts
- Graffiti-style art and vibrant interior
- Creative cocktail list with a Latin twist
- Group-friendly small plate model
Must-Try Dish: Cuban-style chicken thighs with mojo verde and citrus glaze
Recommended Article: Unexpected Food Pairings That Actually Work
7. Annette
Location: 2501 Dallas St, Aurora, CO 80010
Neighborhood: Stanley Marketplace
Cuisine: New American
Website: annettescratchtotable.com
Located in the trendy Stanley Marketplace just outside of Denver, Annette is a cozy, chef-owned restaurant that emphasizes scratch cooking and hospitality. With a daily changing menu and warm farmhouse feel, it offers a true culinary retreat.
Why It’s Cool:
- James Beard semi-finalist chef Caroline Glover
- Community-style tables and open kitchen
- Wood-fired grill and hyper-local sourcing
- Offers brunch, dinner, and seasonal specials
Must-Try Dish: Duck liver mousse with house-pickled veggies
8. Nocturne
Location: 1330 27th St, Denver, CO 80205
Neighborhood: RiNo
Cuisine: Modern American + Live Jazz
Website: nocturnejazz.com
Nocturne is a fusion of culinary and musical art. It’s not just a restaurant—it’s a full-fledged jazz club offering a prix-fixe menu alongside nightly performances by world-class musicians.
Why It’s Cool:
- Immersive live jazz in an Art Deco space
- Seasonally curated three-course tasting menu
- Specialty wine pairings and craft cocktails
- Great date-night and celebration spot
Must-Try Dish: Seared scallops with saffron beurre blanc
Recommended Article: Top Jazz & Dinner Clubs Around the U.S.
9. Work & Class
Location: 2500 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
Neighborhood: RiNo
Cuisine: Latin & Southern Fusion
Website: workandclassdenver.com
Work & Class delivers bold, down-home cooking with Latin American and Southern influences. It’s fun, fast-paced, and fiercely flavorful. With a motto of “square meal, stiff drink, fair price,” this spot delivers great value and vibe.
Why It’s Cool:
- Industrial container-style design
- Rotating selection of roasted meats
- Laid-back service with high-quality dishes
- Walk-ins welcome and popular among locals
Must-Try Dish: Cochinita pibil (Yucatán-style pork) with jalapeño cornbread
10. Hop Alley
Location: 3500 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
Neighborhood: RiNo
Cuisine: Modern Chinese
Website: hopalleydenver.com
Named after Denver’s historic Chinese district, Hop Alley reinvents Chinese-American cuisine with a punk rock twist. Expect bold flavors, inventive cocktails, and an atmosphere that buzzes with energy.
Why It’s Cool:
- Industrial-chic design with neon signage
- Loud, high-energy, and unapologetically flavorful
- Duck fried rice and bao buns that wow
- Ranked on Bon Appetit’s Best New Restaurants list
Must-Try Dish: Beijing duck roll with hoisin and cucumber
Recommended Article: The Influence of Asian Cuisines on Western Food Markets
11. Uchi Denver
Location: 2500 Lawrence St, Denver, CO 80205
Neighborhood: RiNo
Cuisine: Contemporary Japanese
Website: uchidenver.com
Uchi, which means “home” in Japanese, brings Austin’s famed sushi concept to the Mile High City. Chef Tyson Cole blends traditional Japanese cuisine with unexpected global ingredients in this elegant and modern eatery.
Why It’s Cool:
- James Beard Award-winning team
- Daily changing omakase menus
- Sake pairings and elevated sashimi
- Artistic plating and fine-dining flair
Must-Try Dish: Hama chili (yellowtail with ponzu and Thai chili)
Recommended Article: A Guide to Omakase Dining Experiences
12. Beckon
Location: 2843 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
Neighborhood: RiNo
Cuisine: Chef’s Counter Tasting Menu
Website: beckon-denver.com
Beckon is a reservation-only restaurant offering an intimate multi-course tasting menu, prepared before your eyes at an eight-seat chef’s counter. With seasonal themes and elevated artistry, dining here is an immersive experience.
Why It’s Cool:
- Michelin-star level detail and service
- Ever-evolving tasting menu
- Counter-only service fosters intimacy
- Wine and non-alcoholic pairings available
Must-Try Dish: Varies by season—past menus featured aged duck, truffle custards, and sea urchin cream
13. City, O’ City
Location: 206 E 13th Ave, Denver, CO 80203
Neighborhood: Capitol Hill
Cuisine: Vegetarian, Vegan
Website: cityocitydenver.com
City, O’ City is the plant-based epicenter of Denver’s alternative dining scene. Open from morning till midnight, it offers coffee, cocktails, and creative comfort food in a boho-chic space.
Why It’s Cool:
- Iconic vegetarian hub with an artsy vibe
- Full bar with craft cocktails and local brews
- Brunch menu loved by vegans and omnivores alike
- Late-night dining option
Must-Try Dish: Chicken and waffles (made with seitan)
14. Vital Root
Location: 3915 Tennyson St, Denver, CO 80212
Neighborhood: Berkeley
Cuisine: Fast-Casual, Plant-Based
Website: vitalrootdenver.com
Vital Root blends wellness with bold flavor in a fast-casual, health-forward format. Everything on the menu is gluten-free and vegetarian, with a strong focus on global spices and sustainable ingredients.
Why It’s Cool:
- Drive-through for plant-based convenience
- Beautiful garden patio and zen-like interior
- Cold-pressed juices and global small plates
- Kid-friendly and dog-friendly
Must-Try Dish: Thai almond noodle bowl with coconut curry
15. Watercourse Foods
Location: 837 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80218
Neighborhood: Uptown
Cuisine: Vegan, Comfort Food
Website: watercoursefoods.com
As Denver’s first fully vegan restaurant, Watercourse Foods is a landmark of compassionate cuisine. With hearty breakfasts, decadent burgers, and dairy-free desserts, it satisfies comfort food cravings—sans animal products.
Why It’s Cool:
- Cult classic among locals for over 20 years
- Retro diner vibes with modern vegan twists
- Instagram-worthy shakes and brunch plates
- Everything is house-made
Must-Try Dish: Country fried seitan with mashed potatoes and gravy
16. Denver Central Market
Location: 2669 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
Neighborhood: RiNo
Cuisine: Food Hall / Multicultural
Website: denvercentralmarket.com
Denver Central Market is a bustling gourmet food hall housed in a renovated 1920s building. It’s home to artisan vendors serving everything from wood-fired pizza and charcuterie to sushi and gourmet chocolate.
Why It’s Cool:
- 11 unique food and drink vendors under one roof
- Trendy hangout spot for remote workers and creatives
- Art Deco design and community vibes
- Open morning to night
Must-Try Dish: Truffle mushroom pizza from Vero Italian
17. Avanti Food & Beverage
Location: 3200 Pecos St, Denver, CO 80211
Neighborhood: LoHi
Cuisine: Food Hall / Global Street Food
Website: avantifandb.com
Avanti is a modern food hall made from repurposed shipping containers, offering rotating restaurant concepts in a communal dining space with epic rooftop views. It’s a hub for food lovers and socialites alike.
Why It’s Cool:
- Rotating chefs and menus keep things fresh
- Iconic views of downtown Denver
- Two bars with curated drink menus
- Indoor-outdoor seating for all seasons
Must-Try Dish: Fried chicken sandwich from The Rotary
18. The Bindery
Location: 1817 Central St, Denver, CO 80211
Neighborhood: LoHi
Cuisine: European-American Fusion
Website: thebinderydenver.com
Combining a bakery, market, and elegant restaurant, The Bindery serves refined global dishes in a spacious, modern setting. Chef Linda Hampsten Fox has created a place where style and substance blend beautifully.
Why It’s Cool:
- Elegant yet casual concept with flexible seating
- Seasonal menus with creative flair
- Excellent brunch and pastry program
- Market goods to-go
Must-Try Dish: Rabbit gnocchi with sage brown butter
19. Steuben’s Uptown
Location: 523 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80203
Neighborhood: Uptown
Cuisine: Classic American
Website: steubens.com
Named after a historic Boston restaurant, Steuben’s brings retro American diner favorites back in a stylish, mid-century setting. It’s a popular choice for brunch, milkshakes, and nostalgia-driven dining.
Why It’s Cool:
- All-American comfort food with gourmet upgrades
- Milkshakes, meatloaf, and Monte Cristos
- 1950s-style booths and neon signage
- Featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives”
Must-Try Dish: Green chile cheeseburger with hand-cut fries
20. Williams & Graham
Location: 3160 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211
Neighborhood: LoHi
Cuisine: Speakeasy / American
Website: williamsandgraham.com
Behind an unassuming bookstore facade lies Williams & Graham, one of Denver’s most celebrated speakeasies. With intimate lighting, velvet booths, and prohibition-era cocktails, it’s a nod to the past with modern culinary flair.
Why It’s Cool:
- Hidden entrance behind a bookshelf
- World-class cocktails and bartending
- Seasonal, chef-driven American menu
- Cozy, secretive atmosphere
Must-Try Dish: Duck confit with wild rice pilaf
21. The Family Jones Spirit House
Location: 3245 Osage St, Denver, CO 80211
Neighborhood: LoHi
Cuisine: Distillery + Small Plates
Website: thefamilyjones.co
The Family Jones is a boutique distillery and lounge offering beautifully crafted small plates designed to complement their artisanal spirits. The setting is part alchemist’s lab, part retro lounge.
Why It’s Cool:
- On-site distilling of gin, vodka, and whiskey
- Spirited food menu with global touches
- Award-winning cocktail program
- Striking architectural design
Must-Try Dish: Smoked trout dip with rye crisps
22. Bar Dough
Location: 2227 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO 80211
Neighborhood: Highland
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Website: bardoughdenver.com
Bar Dough takes classic Italian dishes and elevates them with wood-fired techniques and refined presentations. The vibe is sleek and buzzy, with an open kitchen and creative wine list.
Why It’s Cool:
- Upscale yet relaxed energy
- Handcrafted pastas and Neapolitan pizzas
- Charcoal grilled proteins
- Modern Italian decor with rustic touches
Must-Try Dish: Cacio e pepe with black pepper pecorino cream
23. Señor Bear
Location: 3301 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211
Neighborhood: LoHi
Cuisine: Latin American Fusion
Website: senorbear.com
Señor Bear brings a playful yet sophisticated twist to Latin flavors. The menu draws inspiration from across Latin America, infusing familiar ingredients with innovative techniques.
Why It’s Cool:
- Bold, stylish interior with tropical vibes
- Rotating seasonal small plates
- Strong cocktail program, especially rum-based
- Group-friendly for tastings
Must-Try Dish: Arepas with duck carnitas and crema
24. Mercantile Dining & Provision
Location: 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202 (inside Union Station)
Neighborhood: LoDo
Cuisine: New American
Website: mercantiledenver.com
Located in the historic Union Station, Mercantile is part market, part fine-dining restaurant. Chef Alex Seidel delivers precise, seasonal dishes with a nod to his Colorado farm roots.
Why It’s Cool:
- Gorgeous train station setting
- James Beard Award-winning chef
- In-house charcuterie and cheese program
- Café by day, refined dining by night
Must-Try Dish: Pork belly with lentil stew and sherry glaze
25. Mizu Izakaya
Location: 1560 Boulder St, Denver, CO 80211
Neighborhood: LoHi
Cuisine: Japanese, Izakaya
Website: mizudenver.com
Mizu Izakaya blends traditional Japanese izakaya culture with a stylish Denver flair. From sake flights and yakitori skewers to sushi rolls and ramen, this is a one-stop shop for Japanese comfort.
Why It’s Cool:
- Elevated yet casual Japanese bar vibe
- Extensive sake and whiskey list
- Open sushi bar and shared plate format
- Patio seating with views
Must-Try Dish: Uni shooters and miso black cod
26. The Green Collective Eatery
Location: 2162 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
Neighborhood: RiNo
Cuisine: Clean Eating, Vegan/Gluten-Free Options
Website: greencollectivedenver.com
A minimalist haven for clean-eating fans, The Green Collective offers a fresh, organic take on bowls, smoothies, and toast. It’s a haven for the health-conscious and aesthetically inclined.
Why It’s Cool:
- Earth-tone, Instagram-ready interior
- Focus on sustainability and local produce
- Specialty lattes and adaptogenic drinks
- Great for breakfast or post-yoga brunch
Must-Try Dish: Cacao almond butter toast with banana and bee pollen
27. Little Man Ice Cream
Location: 2620 16th St, Denver, CO 80211
Neighborhood: LoHi
Cuisine: Ice Cream & Desserts
Website: littlemanicecream.com
You can’t miss the giant milk can towering over this iconic ice cream stand. Little Man Ice Cream is a nostalgic spot that serves handcrafted scoops and creative seasonal flavors with a side of community spirit.
Why It’s Cool:
- Located in a 28-foot tall vintage cream can
- Unique rotating flavors like Earl Grey Lavender and Vegan Horchata
- Community events, music, and charity programs
- Dog-friendly with pup cups
Must-Try Dish: Salted Oreo ice cream in a fresh waffle cone
28. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
Location: 1701 Wynkoop St #150, Denver, CO 80202 (Union Station location)
Neighborhood: LoDo
Cuisine: Breakfast & Brunch
Website: snoozeeatery.com
This Denver-born chain brings high-energy vibes to the morning dining scene with playful spins on breakfast classics. Expect lines out the door—and it’s totally worth the wait.
Why It’s Cool:
- Pancake flights, breakfast tacos, and pineapple upside-down pancakes
- Retro-modern interior with sustainability focus
- Cocktail brunch menu with boozy coffee
- Gluten-free and vegan-friendly options
Must-Try Dish: Sweet potato hash with poached egg
29. Denver Biscuit Company
Location: 3237 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206 (and multiple locations)
Neighborhood: City Park / Baker / Tennyson
Cuisine: Southern Comfort / Brunch
Website: denbisco.com
If you believe everything tastes better on a biscuit, Denver Biscuit Company is your heaven. Huge biscuit sandwiches, cinnamon rolls, and gravy galore await.
Why It’s Cool:
- Hip diner aesthetic with massive portions
- Breakfast served all day
- Combo locations with Atomic Cowboy (bar + pizza + biscuits)
- Local favorite with national fame
Must-Try Dish: The Franklin — fried chicken, bacon, cheddar, and sausage gravy on a biscuit
30. Voodoo Doughnut
Location: 1520 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80218
Neighborhood: Capitol Hill
Cuisine: Doughnuts & Desserts
Website: voodoodoughnut.com
This Portland import brings its quirky, cult-favorite doughnuts to Denver with flavors as wild as the décor. Open late into the night, it’s a staple for sweet-toothed night owls.
Why It’s Cool:
- Eccentric, gothic-style shop with signature pink boxes
- Doughnuts like the Bacon Maple Bar and Memphis Mafia
- Open 24 hours on weekends
- Great for selfies and sugar rushes
Must-Try Dish: Voodoo Doll doughnut filled with raspberry jelly
31. Lucile’s Creole Café
Location: 275 S Logan St, Denver, CO 80209
Neighborhood: Wash Park
Cuisine: Cajun / Creole Brunch
Website: luciles.com
Serving up New Orleans-style brunch in a cozy converted Victorian house, Lucile’s is a beloved institution with Southern hospitality baked into every beignet.
Why It’s Cool:
- Authentic Creole comfort food in a charming house
- Red beans and rice, shrimp and grits, and homemade hot sauces
- Powdered sugar-laden beignets to die for
- Homey, unpretentious vibe
Must-Try Dish: Eggs Pontchartrain with fried trout and spicy hollandaise
32. Hops & Pie
Location: 3920 Tennyson St, Denver, CO 80212
Neighborhood: Berkeley
Cuisine: Pizza & Craft Beer
Website: hopsandpie.com
For pizza lovers who also love beer, Hops & Pie serves artisan pies with a rotating tap list of rare craft brews. It’s equal parts casual hangout and gourmet discovery.
Why It’s Cool:
- Dough fermented for three days
- Creative toppings like duck confit or goat cheese and figs
- Over 20 beers on tap, often limited release
- Great for takeout or relaxed dine-in
Must-Try Dish: White pie with ricotta, garlic oil, and arugula
33. Bastion
Location: 2845 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
Neighborhood: RiNo
Cuisine: Modern American / Chef’s Tasting
Website: bastionrestaurant.com
Bastion is a refined but approachable spot where culinary creativity meets exceptional service. Known for its chef’s tasting menu and intimate setting, it’s perfect for food enthusiasts and special occasions.
Why It’s Cool:
- Tasting menu with ever-changing seasonal fare
- Wine pairings and in-depth ingredient explanations
- Quiet, minimalistic setting ideal for serious dining
- Emphasis on local and foraged ingredients
Must-Try Dish: Charred cabbage with smoked fish roe and brown butter
Foodie Tours & Bonus Tips
Denver Neighborhood Food Tours
- Taste of LoHi: Discover top eateries in one of Denver’s trendiest hoods. Visit Root Down, Linger, and Little Man Ice Cream in one go.
- RiNo Food Crawl: Self-guided or organized tours of RiNo will hit Safta, Super Mega Bien, Hop Alley, and The Source food hall.
- Brunch Hop: Combine visits to Lucile’s, Denver Biscuit Company, and Snooze for the ultimate Denver brunch day.
Insider Dining Tips
- Reservations Required: Top spots like El Five, Uchi, Beckon, and Bastion book out fast. Plan ahead with OpenTable or Resy.
- Happy Hour Deals: Many cool Denver restaurants have killer happy hour menus from 3–6 PM. Try Bar Dough or Señor Bear for great value.
- Parking vs. Uber: Use rideshare or RTD light rail when visiting downtown or RiNo—parking is limited and expensive in these areas.
Conclusion
Denver’s food scene is a reflection of the city itself—creative, vibrant, and constantly evolving. Whether you’re in the mood for vegan innovation, globally inspired small plates, or nostalgic Americana with a twist, the Mile High City has a seat at the table for every type of foodie.
This ultimate guide to cool Denver restaurants offers more than just dining suggestions—it’s your passport to experiencing the city through its flavors, chefs, and cultural expressions. Use it to plan your next trip, explore new neighborhoods, or rediscover old favorites with a fresh perspective.
