In a city like Denver, where urban style meets rugged adventurism, it’s no wonder there is a vibrant and electric dining scene for its diverse residents. If you’re looking to spice up your usual restaurant options, you’re in luck. Denver features a number of unique themed restaurants and elegant bars offering gorgeous views of the city. Whether you are in the mood for thick slices of cheese pizza or a Long Island Pitcher, Denver offers everything you could want in a bustling city and more.
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1000 Osage St, Lincoln Park, Southwest
Known as Denver’s first steakhouse, The Buckhorn Exchange has served as a city staple for savory steaks and exotic appetizers like alligator tail and buffalo sausage for years. This Downtown restaurant offers a diverse array of sizzling meats such as buffalo prime rib, elk, quail, and baby-back pork ribs. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, you can choose one of the restaurant’s main course salads or its famous bean soup.
This is perhaps one of the most unique restaurants in Denver. With prized game staring down at diners from all four walls, The Buckhorn Exchange is sure to offer an unforgettable dining experience for you.
“Had to try the Rocky Mountain oysters while in Denver and I heard this is the place to get them! I wasn't disappointed. The place feels like it's a hunting lodge out of a movie, filled with cool historical Knick knacks and taxidermy.” - Yelp Review
Purchase a GiftYa card for The Buckhorn Exchange.
2930 Umatilla St, Northwest
Located in Northwest Denver, El Five offers breathtaking views of the downtown Denver skyline. During warm summer evenings, you can sit outside on the patio and watch the sun go down as you enjoy a delicious meal.
Their Mediterrean dishes, such as the Jamon Iberico & Camaros and the Burrata Di Puglia are meant to share. So make sure you order enough for the whole table! A full bar is also featured at El Five with drinks that are sure to go perfectly with your meal. For dessert, you have an appetizing selection of special dessert tapas.
“Okay I absolutely love this place. The vibes are great - such a good date night spot or spot to go have a fun little girls night. I've sat on both sides and the view from both are great. It is a little more spendy, but well worth it cause you're paying for quality views, good dranks, and good food.” - Yelp Review
Purchase a GiftYa card for El Five.
2532 15th St, Northwest
As you enjoy the last days of summer, make sure you stop by Forest Room 5. Offering a spacious outdoor patio alongside a running creek, Forest Room 5 offers a calming ambience unmatched by other restaurants in the city. Guests can lounge by the fire pit and enjoy a glass of wine or sit at a full table to enjoy a meal. Delicious options including the Filet Mignon, Colorado Beef Filet, and Smokey Mac ‘N Cheese are sure to fill you up.
“The happy hour at Forest Room 5 is pretty great. There are a handful of cocktails that are $5-$6, draft beer specials, and a couple of snacks that are fairly cheap as well. The cocktails are pretty unique, and even though there are only a few beers on tap, they are all very delicious. I haven't had anything on the main menu, but the happy hour hummus was delicious.” - Yelp Review
Purchase a GiftYa card for Forest Room 5.
3760 Tejon St, Northwest
To enjoy some of Denver’s best Italian food while dining outside on a romantic patio, head to Gaetano’s. This old-school spot is known for its famous Bloody Mary Bar and Gangster Cocktail. Speaking of gangsters, this famous restaurant used to serve as the city’s mobster headquarters.
When it comes to the food, you are sure to find a dish that speaks to your cravings. Savory meals like the Calamari Fritti, Pei Mussels, and Clams Casino are sure to delight your taste buds. Specialty cocktails like the Capone and Gotti’s Hot Buttered Rum are perfect for enjoying alongside your savory meals.
“My only complaint is that I didn't find this hidden gem sooner! Finally some authentic Italian food in this town. The staff was incredibly friendly even in the midst of this covid craziness. Amber was our server the first time and she made our visit a wonderful experience.” - Yelp Review
Purchase a GiftYa card for Gaetano’s.
williamsandgraham.com
3160 Tejon St, Northwest
Authentic speakeasies might be a thing of the past, but you can still enjoy the electric atmosphere of the underground bars from the Prohibition Era at Williams & Graham. W&G offers an extensive cocktail menu featuring over 60 drinks perfect for any taste or preference. Inside, you will find a classic dining space and bar perfect for sitting back and relaxing with friends.
The restaurant’s ever-changing menu offers an assortment of hors d’oeuvres, small plates, entrees, and desserts. Some popular items that are currently on the menu include the Roasted Cauliflower, Oyster Po’ Boy, and Tea Sandwiches.
“Bar seats opened first and I can tell you the bar is an excellent place to sit. Very cosy as there are many people at the bar however the bar staff makes you feel like you belong. The burger was cooked perfectly, and the cooking staff divided up so me and my date could easily share. The Mac n cheese was among the best I have ever had, I would highly recommend it.” - Yelp Review
Purchase a GiftYa card for Williams & Graham.
2030 W 30th Ave, Northwest
Linger is a top destination for high-quality food and access to the best views of the city. Its rooftop lounge is perfect for warm days and clear nights. You’ll find a savory variety of food and drinks up here. Under the Food Truck section are creative selections such as the Yellowfin Tuna Poke Bowl and the Tempura Ginger Chili Shrimp. Quick bites like the Sweet Potato Waffle Fries and Korean Fried Chicken Bao Bun are perfect for sharing with friends.
“Linger linger linger... how you're still my favorite restaurant after living in Denver for almost 7 years. There's just something about your eclectic vibes (I mean you used to be a mortuary) to your unique food selections that always want me coming back for more!” - Yelp Review
Purchase a GiftYa card for Linger.
500 E Alameda Ave, Speer
Founded by husband and wife team Olav Peterson and Melissa Severson, Bittersweet is a unique restaurant known for its artisanal cuisine. In order to offer the freshest and innovative menu in the city, Bittersweet offers a seasonal selection of food that changes throughout the year. All of these meals contain ingredients and meats from local farms and fisheries.
In addition to its extensive dinner menu, you can also find a fine assortment of cocktails, wines, and beers. Whether you are in the mood for a glass of white wine or you want to try the Cherry Bomb cocktail, you are sure to be delighted by the skill and craftsmanship of Bittersweet’s expert bartenders.
“The food is always cooked to perfection and this time around we started with the etouffee starter along with the lamb meatballs, both were excellent. For our entrees I went with the Picnic Chicken and my wife got the scallops and again everything was cooked perfectly with wonderful flavor.” - Yelp Review
Purchase a GiftYa card for Bittersweet.
What are your favorite restaurants in Denver? Let us know in the comment section below!
