The Top 10 Best Restaurants in RiNo, Denver You Need to Try

“RiNo” is the nickname for the River North Art District in Denver, Colorado. This section of the Mile-High City has contemporary art galleries, concert venues, colorful murals, bars, and hip restaurants located in up-to-date industrial buildings. You’ll know as soon as you’ve entered RiNO because it’s got a certain feel that’s different compared to the rest of the city. And if you’re planning to venture out there and are looking for a place to grab a meal then you’ve come to the right place because today we are taking a look at the best of the best restaurants in RiNO, Denver. Sit back, relax, and let us take you on a food journey you won’t wanna come back from.

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1. The Denver Central Market

A variety of food vendors to pursue through and find some new favorites!

📍 2669 Larimer St | Denver | denvercentralmarket.com

We’re starting off with a big one, and maybe one of RiNo’s most popular venues: the Denver Central Market. This is a food hall that has made a big name for itself for having some of the best picks for food in Denver proper. Located in a cool brick building you’ll find eleven different food vendors to try out. Here’s who they are: 

• Izzio Bakery which serves flakey pastries, breads, and cookie dough.
• Lunchboxx which makes “lunch boxes” for all ages, things like Cheeseburgers and Rice Bowls makes an appearance.
• Vero is all about Italian favorites like wood fired pizzas, sandwiches, and pastas.
• Tammen’s Fish is all about fresh flavorful fish and other seafood! It’s in the name after all.
• Green Seed gives a boost with freshly squeezed fruit and veggie juices.
• Temper is a Chocolate and Confections vendor with emphasis on French-style bonbons and other sweet treats.
• Curio is a bar that also has a few flavorful dishes.
• And finally we have High Point Creamery which sells you ice cream 365 of the year, no matter how cold it gets. All of these places make this place one of the best restaurants in RiNo, Denver!

“Love this place. The food was amazing ( we tried a couple of the vendors). The atmosphere is definitely artsy hipster good. We even sat outside. All the vendors were great.” -Yelp Review

2. Hop Alley

Chinese food with menus for Vegans, Vegetarians, and Gluten-Free people!

📍 3500 Larimer St | Denver | hopalleydenver.com 

You’ll find Hop Alley towards the end of RiNo but don’t overlook it because it’s providing some of the most unique Chinese-Asian fusion meals out there. From the gorgeous plating to the poppin’ atmosphere you’re sure to have a great time here. What sets Hop Alley apart from a lot of restaurants is their many inclusive menus. 

They’ve got separate menus for vegans, vegetarians, pescatarians, and those who are gluten-free. A breath of fresh-air for those with different dietary needs than the traditional “norm”. You’ll be able to enjoy a few different dishes like their Jackfruit Bao, Pixian Grilled Shrimp, Fried Wontons, and their Vietnamese Coffee Waffle ice cream.

“Went on a Tuesday right when they opened without a reservation and thankfully got it! Very pleased with our time here at Hop Alley. Delicious food, good vibes and left happy.” -Yelp Review

3. The Walnut Room

Play a little golf, drink a little beer, and eat some delicious pizza!

📍 3131 Walnut St | Denver | thewalnutroom.com

Conveniently located on Walnut Street, The Walnut Room has made a name for itself in recent years because of their big rebrand in 2022. It became RiNo’s first full service Virtual Golf destination. They have two TrackMan Simulators where those who are up to par can swing away before, during, or after they eat. 

The Walnut Room has a fully-fledged bar where those who partake can get their drink of choice that’ll pair well with their menu. We’ve gotten this far and we haven’t even mentioned their food! Well, this place has got your pizza-cravings covered as you can “Build Your Own Pizza” just the way you like it. Or if you want something else they have salads, sandwiches, and tacos on Taco Tuesday.

“This place was recommended to me by a friend and I tried it on the spur of the moment. I had the house salad and wings and everything was delicious. The service was fast and friendly and I enjoyed sitting outside. Definitely recommended !” -Yelp Review

4. Revival Denver Public House

A venue perfectly created for a round of drinks, great food, and good laughs!

📍 630 E 17th Ave | Denver | revival-denver.com

You’ll find Revival Denver Public House just 7 minutes away from RiNo proper and what you’ll get is the perfect place for those looking for those chill-laid back vibes. Their whole aesthetic is bo-ho with its own unique twist. You can look forward to American comfort foods like burgers and sandwiches along with brunch options, like Bread Pudding French Toast- yum! Take a look at their drink menu or saddle up to the bar to get something that pairs well with your meal while you lounge around with your friends chatting the day away. 

“Absolutely amazing hidden gem. Live music was an added treat. Food was incredible, especially my Autumn salad with the grilled chicken on top. Best of all was the service. FIVE STARS across the board!!” -Yelp Review

5. Work & Class

Get Latin and American foods in this no-fuss, no reservations restaurant!

📍 2500 Larimer St | Denver | workandclassdenver.com

Work & Class has a 10 second pitch and that is: “square meal, stiff drink, and fair price.” But what does that mean? Well let us tell you:

At Work & Class they believe that food should be…simple but good. No crazy or unfamiliar ingredients to the general public, nothing outrageous when it comes to cooking styles- no. They just want to make good solid food made from good solid ingredients. Dana Rodriguez is the owner and she grew up with this style of cooking and wanted to share it with others. Every plate is cooked well and every drink is over 2 ounces. Meats, appetizers, breads, and small plates make up their menu, so if that sounds like something you’d like then come on down.

“Delicious food and beverages, relaxed atmosphere, and kind and quick service. Had an amazing cider, happy hour pot pie and fritters as well as bourbon cooked brisket and empanadas.

Will definitely be back!!” -Yelp Review

6. Bigsby's Folly Craft Winery & Restaurant

Taking the “industrial” look of RiNo and making it the theme of the restaurant!

📍 3563 Wazee St | Denver | bigsbysfolly.com

Chad Yetk went from aerospace engineering, senior business consulting, and leadership roles in homebuilding and oil & gas to owning a restaurant serving the patrons of RiNo and the greater Denver area. Why? Well he wanted to do something more meaningful, he wanted to create a space where all are welcome to kick back, relax, and enjoy some good food with even better company. Bigsby’s Folly Craft Winery & Restaurant is the perfect venue for private events of a night out on the town. They have their own wine you can try along with shared plates, flatbreads, and more. Truly a wonderful venue in RiNo.

“It's the coolest vibe in Denver. Restaurant week pairings were fantastic. Kassidy, our server, gave us great info and tips about the wines and food. It is an ideal happy hour spot!” -Yelp Review

7. Smōk Barbecue

A mix of rustic and trendy makes this BBQ spot one of the best restaurants in RiNo, Denver!

📍 3330 Brighton Blvd #202 | Denver | denversmok.com

Barbeque lovers unite, we’ve got the latest and greatest in RiNo for you to visit and it’s Smōk Barbecue which is led by Chef Bill Espiricueta who has spent many years working in restaurants before opening his own. Smōk Barbecue brings the smoke (ironic we know), to all of its dishes. You’ll be able to taste all the juiciness and tenderness that comes with a good BBQ dish at Smōk. Dig into Smoked Pork Belly, Pulled Pork, the Fired Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, and a frozen cocktail for your next meal. There’s something special about a hearty meal and this spot has got that in spades.

“Coming from Texas and living in Colorado there's not many places as good as Smōk! The brisket and burnt ends are the way to go! The fried okra and baked beans are phenomenal! Great sauces and house made hot sauce too!” -Yelp Review

8. Blue Moon Brewing Company RiNo

The famous Blue Moon is bringing RiNo good food and brews!

📍 3750 Chestnut Pl | Denver | bluemoonrino.com

For those who enjoy a beer or brew, the name “Blue Moon” might be familiar. If not, well, let us introduce you: citizens of RiNo, Blue Moon Brewing Company is a brewery and restaurant combo with lots of space for however big your party is. Giving off that classic RiNo “industrial” look, this space is perfect for a casual meal out with your friends and family. 

You can get one of their famous Blue Moon drafts yourself to try out or go with something else. No matter what drink you get, you’ll be able to enjoy it well with any one of their plates. They’ve got stuff like Pork Green Chili Cheese Fries, Mango Wheat Brined Chicken Wings, salads, burgers, sandwiches, and more.

“Should have a taken a picture of it but that comeback burger will literally make me come back! It was phenomenal and the sauce was like a Cajun thousand island! Definitely come check out blue moon!” -Yelp Review

9. Fish N Beer

An unassuming spot meets some of the best seafood you’ll have!

📍 3510 Larimer St | Denver | fishnbeerdenver.com

Fish N Beer has made its stand right in the middle of the wonders of both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans as they have crafted a menu with delights from both. Seafood has a taste profile unlike any other food out there, and those who enjoy that sweet tangy salty delicacy you’ll definitely love Fish N Beer. Cooking up sustainably sourced seafood (because caring about where and how your food is made is important to them), you’ll be able to leave feeling satisfied no matter the dish you pick. Their oysters are recommended as they have a whole section on the menu for just that!

“I LOVED this place!! We sat at the bar and they cook on the grill right in front of you. The music is loud but awesome. The food was amazing. Loved the oysters!” -Yelp Review

10. Uchi Denver

Sushi, Sashimi, and drinks all pair quite well to make this a restaurant to dine at!

📍 2500 Lawrence St | Denver | uchi.uchirestaurants.com

Chefs Andres Araujo and James Buddie are in charge of the menu at Uchi in Denver and they have done an outstanding job bringing out the flavors of many different types of sushi and sashimi dishes. Uchi is “house” in Japanese and they want you to feel as welcome as you are in your own home at their restaurant. 

They offer a bit of non-traditional mixed with traditional you’ll see as you sit down to pursue the menu. If you want to know what the locals are loving, Uchi lets you know and right now it’s their hama chili which is yellowtail, ponzu, thai chili, with orange supreme and walu walu which is oak-grilled escolar, yuzupon, candied citrus, and myoga.  

“Went back for a second time for my kids birthday and everything was amazing. I even tried oysters which I never thought would happen. I couldn't include all the pics but trust me, everything is amazing.” -Yelp Review

And there you go! Those are some of the most talked about, well reviewed restaurants in RiNo, Denver. No matter where you wind up, you're sure to have a great meal.