Forks & Knives: Denver’s Finest Restaurants You Need to Try

POPULAR ATTRACTIONSDINING OPTIONS

1/20/20253 min read

Explore Denver's diverse and dynamic restaurant scene, where you'll find everything from upscale fine dining to casual comfort food. Be sure to check out each restaurant's website for the latest hours, menu updates, and reservation policies before planning your visit.

1. . Mercantile Dining & Provision

  • Cuisine: Contemporary American, Seasonal

  • Location: 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202

  • Hours: Monday - Saturday, 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

  • Why Go: Located in Denver’s historic Union Station, Mercantile offers a seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients. The intimate atmosphere and expertly crafted dishes make it one of the best fine-dining experiences in the city.

2. Frasca Food and Wine

  • Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean

  • Location: 1738 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302 (just outside Denver)

  • Hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

  • Why Go: A short drive from Denver, Frasca is renowned for its Italian-inspired cuisine and exceptional wine list. The restaurant provides a welcoming yet refined dining experience, ideal for both special occasions and a night out.

3. The Wolf's Tailor

  • Cuisine: Modern American, Asian Fusion

  • Location: 4058 Tennyson St, Denver, CO 80212

  • Hours: Wednesday - Sunday, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

  • Why Go: Known for its creative menu blending global flavors with local ingredients, The Wolf’s Tailor offers an innovative dining experience. The ever-evolving menu is a delight for those seeking something fresh and exciting.

4. El Five

  • Cuisine: Mediterranean, Tapas

  • Location: 2930 Umatilla St, Denver, CO 80211

  • Hours: Monday - Sunday, 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM

  • Why Go: With its rooftop views and bold Mediterranean flavors, El Five is the perfect place for a relaxed evening with friends or a romantic date. The tapas-style menu encourages sharing and trying a variety of unique dishes.

5. Steuben’s Food Service

  • Cuisine: Comfort Food, American

  • Location: 523 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80203

  • Hours: Monday - Sunday, 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

  • Why Go: Steuben’s serves elevated comfort food, including favorites like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and milkshakes. Its fun, retro-inspired setting adds to the nostalgic charm of the experience.

6. Linger

  • Cuisine: Global Street Food

  • Location: 2030 W 30th Ave, Denver, CO 80211

  • Hours: Monday - Sunday, 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM

  • Why Go: Set in a former mortuary, Linger offers a unique setting and an eclectic menu inspired by street food from around the world. The rooftop bar provides stunning views of Denver, making it a great spot for a lively evening.

7. Beast + Bottle

  • Cuisine: New American, Farm-to-Table

  • Location: 719 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80203

  • Hours: Tuesday - Sunday, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

  • Why Go: Beast + Bottle offers a cozy, rustic ambiance with a focus on farm-to-table dining. Known for its seasonal dishes and craft cocktails, it’s an excellent choice for a relaxed yet refined dinner.

8. Sushi Den

  • Cuisine: Sushi, Japanese

  • Location: 1487 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210

  • Hours: Monday - Sunday, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

  • Why Go: One of Denver’s best sushi spots, Sushi Den is renowned for its fresh fish and authentic Japanese preparations. With a longstanding reputation and a sleek setting, it’s perfect for sushi enthusiasts.

9. Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox

  • Cuisine: New American, Eclectic

  • Location: 1215 20th St, Denver, CO 80202

  • Hours: Tuesday - Sunday, 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM

  • Why Go: A restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere, Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox serves creative New American dishes in a unique, art-deco-inspired space. It’s a fun, energetic spot for dinner and drinks.

10. Panzano

  • Cuisine: Italian

  • Location: 909 17th St, Denver, CO 80202

  • Hours: Monday - Sunday, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

  • Why Go: Panzano brings authentic Italian flavors to downtown Denver with an emphasis on fresh pasta, seasonal ingredients, and excellent wine pairings. Its elegant, warm setting makes it ideal for a romantic evening or a celebratory meal.

Disclaimer:
The information provided is accurate as of the publication date, but we recommend checking with each restaurant for the most up-to-date details on hours, reservations, and special offerings before planning your visit.