The 19 Trendiest Themed Restaurants in Denver That You Need to Visit

Theme restaurants aren’t just a gimmick for tourists – they’re a memorable way to have a unique adventure with your friends or family any time of the year! 

Whether you’re just passing through to hit up the area’s amazing hiking trails and ski resorts or you call the Mile High City home, these themed restaurants in Denver practically guarantee an incredible night out.  

While not every restaurant on this list lies in the bustling heart of downtown Denver, each of these restaurants is located in the Denver Metropolitan Area, so the next time you and a few friends are in the area -- swing by one of these locations for an unforgettable experience.

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1. Aquarium Restaurant

Dine Amongst the Sea Life as You Enjoy a Delicious Meal!

📍 700 Water St | Denver | aquariumrestaurants.com

You can find this Aquarium Restaurant located in Downtown Aquarium- (won’t be hard to miss) in Denver. This can be a fun experience for the whole family! Start with a trip to the aquarium, next visit the exhibits, then continue to dine amongst the sea life at their restaurant. This is a once in a lifetime dining experience, but the memories will last forever. 

On their menu you can find a variety of seafood specialties, steaks, chicken, salads, pasta dishes, and a number of delicious desserts. You will be seated next to their 50,000 gallon centerpiece aquarium that includes 100 species of tropical fish from the Caribbean Sea, Hawaii, South Pacific, and Indian Ocean. This lounge comes with both a delicious meal and lively entertainment.

“I come here every so often and everytime I come I have a different opinion enjoyable experience. I had taken my three godsons and they had a great experience. The very different types of fish and varied animals to match the biomes.” -Yelp Review

2. Casa Bonita

Lush Mexican Restaurant Featuring a Massive 30-foot Waterfall!

📍 6715 W Colfax Ave | Lakewood | casabonitadenver.com

Have you ever eaten beside a waterfall? Now’s your chance! Casa Bonita is a lush, Mexican restaurant known for its tropical decorations and stunning waterfall. Along with its gorgeous architecture and interior design, Casa Bonita also features thrilling stage shows and live music. As for the food, you’ll find a wide array of savory Mexican dishes like the Enchiladas, Carnitas Tacos, and Ceviche. And that’s not all, included in every meal is unlimited soda, chips & salsa, and their famous sopaipillas. There’s also cliff divers that show their skills jumping off the waterfall, mariachi bands, puppet shows, face painting, and more!

“The reservation and entrance went well. The restaurant was clean and the food was actually pretty good. A bit limited on the menu but what we got was good. The ambiance brought back all the memories of my youth and it's definitely worth doing!” -Yelp Review

3. The Crypt

Top-Rated Horror Themed Dive Bar in Northeast Denver

📍 1618 E 17th Ave | Denver | thecryptdenver.com

Think Halloween is the most wonderful time of the year? If you love spooky movies, metal music, and glowing decor, then The Crypt will be your jam. With screams pumping through the speakers (and projected on the screen by the bar), you can be certain that a night out at the Crypt is a scary good time.

If the blacklight and movies aren’t enough to draw you in, take a look at The Crypt’s menu. With carnivore friendly options like the fan favorite Crypt Burger as well as scrumptious vegan fare like Vegan Poutine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

“The service and atmosphere was incredible!!!! Our bartender (I forget his name but a dark haired guy with a beard and tattoos) was so sweet and incredible at his job. Also, the manager was quick to accommodate our large last minute dinner party. And the food was EXCELLENT!” -Yelp Review 

4. Happy Camper

All The Fun of the Great Outdoors… Minus the Mosquitos

📍 3211 N Pecos St | Denver | happycamper.pizza/denver

Bonfires and camp chairs and fresh air, oh my! Happy Camper is THE place to be for outdoors-themed fun – fitting for Denver, right? With vegan-friendly and gluten free options, everyone will find something they like. They’re famous for their “make your own pizza” where you can choose exactly what you want for one of the best foods in the world!

Keep in mind that after 7pm Monday-Friday and after 2pm Saturday-Sunday the restaurant is 21+ and anyone entering must show a valid photo ID. People with kiddos have a 2 hour window to wrap up and get off the premises (so 9pm and 4pm respectively). And their 360-degree bar is definitely stocked with tasty drinks to serve, so it's worth staying past dinner time if you are able. 

“Had a great experience with the food, the ambiance, and the staff at happy camper. Overall it was the best place we checked out on our weekend out at Denver. Would 100% come back here if I was in Denver.” -Yelp Review

5. Linger

Old Mortuary Turned Restaurant With a Variety of Cuisine

📍 2030 W 30th Ave | Denver | ediblebeats.com

Linger is an old mortuary that has been renovated and turned into a bustling, lively restaurant complete with a rooftop bar. As a funeral home, they were once responsible for housing the body of Buffalo Bill Cody in 1917. Since then, they have taken their history for what it is and, with pride,  incorporated it into the theme of the restaurant -- death everything. Here you will find water served from formaldehyde bottles and more, but we won’t spoil the surprises. 

Their menu is a trip around the world -- all in one restaurant. On their dinner menu you will find cuisine from Asia, the Americas and Europe, Africa and the Middle East, and a section of steamed bao buns. You can also visit this location for lighter lunch options like salads and noodles and brunch fit with tamales, burritos, sliders, churro french toast, and more. This dining experience is like no other!

“Great vibes, food, and cocktails. We sat upstairs where there is a couple bars and full menu availability. Great views. Food was wonderful and the Dosa, def don't miss it!” -Yelp Review

6. Gaetano’s

Traditional Italian Dishes Served Just as You Would Want Them

📍 3760 Tejon St | Denver | gaetanositalian.com

Founded by a mob family, yep you’ve read that right, Gaetano’s Restaurant serves classic Italian dishes and craft made cocktails. Their menu contains everything you would expect from a traditional Italian restaurant right down to the garlic bread itself. 

You can find pizza, pasta, seafood, proteins, a variety of delicious starters, and classic desserts. If you are in the mood for a classic Italian meal to satisfy your cravings, give Gaetano’s a try and find everything you would want right on your plate.

“Delicious food. Fast service. Cute small place. Loved the old school Italian decor! I wish I could have tried more desserts. They all looked so good but had to go with the classic cannolis.” -Yelp Review

7. Adrift

Hip Tiki Bar With Craft Made Cocktails and Delicious Eats

📍 218 S Broadway | Denver | adriftbar.com

Adrift is a Polynesian tiki bar complete with craft cocktails and food made from scratch. They work with and serve fresh, exotic ingredients with the goal of transporting guests to a tropical vacation -- everything you would expect during an island getaway. 

Their cocktail menu includes everything you would expect to find in a tropical paradise from house-made Mai Tai with housemade orgeat, to daiquiris and a variety of pineapple flavored drinks! Their limited menu features small plates -- volcano fries, edamame hummus, and coconut shrimp. Pair one of these delicious starters with a craft made cocktail and the night begins at this fun tiki bar. 

“Very cute and cozy bar. We got the drink that they light up which made for a really cool experience. Hosts are attentive. Food was ok, this is more of a place you go for drinks.” -Yelp Review

8. Crawling Crab

Charming Seafood Restaurant Boasting Hip, Nautical Digs

📍 781 S Federal Blvd | Denver | thecrawlingcrab.us

You don’t have to fly all the way to Maryland to enjoy some delicious seafood. At the Crawling Crab, you can order fresh and savory seafood right in your neighborhood. With two locations, one located in Southwest Denver in Lakewood, and the other in Denver proper, Crawling Crab offers a relaxed dining room filled with fun, nautical decorations. Coming with friends? We recommend ordering one of their fried appetizers like the calamari or oysters. For the main meal, you get to pick your main seafood dish, choose a sauce, and add any sides to complete the meal. Yum!

“We ordered 2 clusters of snow crab and a cluster of peeled shrimp. The shrimp was delicious! I feel like the crab could have had more meat to it but I don't really know crab that well. Definitely get the calamari! Price wasn't bad at all for everything we ordered.” -Yelp Review

9. Buckhorn Exchange

Rustic Steakhouse Featuring Stunning Museum Pieces

📍 1000 Osage St | Denver | buckhorn.com

Designated Denver’s original steakhouse, the Buckhorn Exchange is one of the city’s top destinations for hearty, sizzling steaks. Not only that, but it also offers serious historical value. Since 1893, this National Historic Landmark and Western Museum has been a hot spot among locals for its fascinating decor and delicious food. Prime grade beef, buffalo, elk, lamb, and other entrees are just a few items you can find on the menu. Feeling adventurous? Buckhorn Exchange also offers exotic appetizers like rattlesnake and alligator tail.

“Steaks are delicious. As a historical building I've been wanting to go here for years. Our server was knowledgeable on the menu and what to recommend. The ambiance is so fun with stuffed animals and old.” -Yelp Review

10. Ship Tavern

Nautical Themed Vintage Pub + Dining Room Serving American Fare

📍 321 17th St | Denver | brownpalace.com

Prepare to raise anchor! Located inside The Brown Palace Hotel and Bar, Ship Tavern is any landlubber’s sea-inspired dream. Enjoy tasty American fare like burgers, steak, seafood, and sandwiches chased down with craft cocktails or dessert.

The oldest restaurant in the hotel, Ship’s Tavern first opened shop in 1934 when prohibition ended. Take in the authentic decor while you dine – include a full mast and crow’s nest, a ship clock, Jamaican rum barrels, and a collection of model ships direct from Cape Cod.

“Food was good. We had their signature prime rib and it was huge! Service was nice. Place was cozy and the piano man was a nice touch. Definitely, need to try this restaurant.” -Yelp Review

11. Convergence Station - Meow Wolf

Interactive Art from 110 Local Denver Artists

📍 1338 1st St | Denver | meowwolf.com

Immersive and maximalist by design, Meow Wolf has been bringing art audience-driven experiences to Denver since 2008. The kid-friendly exhibit is Meow Wolf’s 3rd permanent installation in the Denver area.

And within Convergence Station, you’ll find HELLOFOOD – tasty locally sourced food and brews that benefit the community they came out of. Tacos, rice bowls, salad, sandwiches, dessert – it all gets good reviews.

“Wow. This location is my FAVORITE. All of them are so beautifully put together, but this one is a magical experience. You HAVE TO EXPERIENCE IT! Don't want to add a bunch of pictures it's something you must experience for yourself.” -Yelp Review

12. Williams & Graham

Fun Speakeasy That Will Take You to a Different Decade

📍 3160 Tejon St | Denver | williamsandgraham.com

While the current decade has felt like anything but the roaring ’20s, you can still transport yourself back a century to the height of the speakeasy era at Williams & Graham. Over the years, this popular speakeasy has earned impressive distinctions like Top 23 Secret Bars in the World by Thrillest and Best Cocktail Bar - Reacher’s Choice by Westworld Best of Denver. 

Located in Northwest Denver, Williams & Graham offers over 60 classic cocktails along with an innovative menu featuring elevated fare. Williams & Graham is pretty popular, so we recommend making a reservation in advance to ensure you get a spot inside at your desired time.

“This place was AMAZING!!! One of the coolest speakeasies I've ever been to. Gives you an old school European cabaret feels with AMAZING craft cocktails.

Would highly recommend this place for a date night in Denver!!” -Yelp Review

14. The Plimoth

New Age American Food Served in a Rustic Venue

📍 2335 E 28th Ave | Denver | theplimoth.com

The chefs at The Plimoth love food, they are constantly evolving and expanding upon their menu which features fresh, seasonal ingredients. On their menu, you will find hip, new age American food that has influences rooted in French cuisine. The chefs both take a traditional approach to food and incorporate modern techniques as well as plating styles. 

You can find rustic decor featuring reclaimed wood counters when dining in. They have an ever-rotating menu featuring a little something for everyone. Finish off your meal with a dessert and enjoy your experience at The Plimoth.

“I highly recommend this neighborhood restaurant. I've eaten here numerous times & the menu changes regularly, the staff is very knowledgeable, I always rely on their recommendations & they've never disappointed me.” -Yelp Review

14. Forest Room 5

Dinner and Drinks in a Wilderness Themed Bar

📍 2532 15th St | Denver | facebook.com/Forest-Room

Forest Room 5 is a trendy bar complete with outdoor firepits, rustic decor, animal taxidermy, and a flowing creek! This is an adventure for the books and is better served as a spot for those who enjoy nightlife. However, this place is more than a bar -- they are known for live music, the occasional pop up art gallery featuring local Denver artists, and flea markets. 

Stop in for great conversation over drinks with friends and enjoy a tasting of their menu. Stop in for dinner or Sunday brunch. Their full bar offers delicious drinks and made-to-order cocktails. You can’t beat the atmosphere at Forest Room 5!

“Fun place for cocktails inside or outside! Literally...there's tree stumps and a tepee to sit in! Busy on weekends (expected). I'll return next time I'm in Denver!” -Yelp Review

15. The Brutal Poodle

“Headbang While You Eat” at This Themed Restaurant in Denver

📍 1967 S Broadway | Denver | brutalpoodledenver.com

At The Brutal Poodle you’ll understand their slogan: “headbang while you eat” fairly quickly as you take in the heavy metal and rock jams as soon as you open the doors. It’s loud for sure- but it’s the fun kind of loud. You’ll get to enjoy some truly delicious hand-crafted pub-like food from their kitchen as you sit in a rock-themed atmosphere. And don’t forget to grab one of their classic cocktails, each have their own twist you’ll like!

“Service ambience and food it's all there !!!!!!!!! Best meal I have ever had in my life. Everyone there is so sweet and the service is so good!!! 10/10 especially if you like alternative and metal and rock music” -Yelp Review

16. Colorado Campfire

Just like Sitting Around the Campfire with your Friends - Only in Restaurant Form!

📍 400 E 19th Ave | Denver | campfiredenver.com

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of sitting around the campfire with your favorite people, roasting marshmallows, making s’mores, and telling funny stories. It’s a feeling you get deep inside and Colorado Campfire is doing their best to emulate that feeling. They have a warm-cozy interior where they serve plenty of cocktails, burgers, sandwiches, starters like Loaded Nachos, and of course- Classic S'mores!

“I saw the s'mores old fashioned in an ad and was sold. This place was cute! Food was good drinks were better. Pro tip add an extra mallow to your drink! If you don't, you'll wish you did.” -Yelp Review

17. Punch Bowl Social

Get One of their Legendary Punch Bowls While Playing a Fun Game

📍 65 Broadway | Denver | punchbowlsocial.com

Ever heard of Punch Bowl Social? No? Let us introduce you then. Punch Bowl Social is a restaurant chain where you can play board games at your table, get up and play pool or bowl, sing karaoke, or join in on one of their events like Music Bingo or Trivia Night! It’s mixing socializing and eating all under one roof. You can enjoy classic gastropub faves like nachos, burgers, fries, wings, tacos, and plenty more.

“I wish I could transport this place back to Chicago with me, ordered the grilled chicken sandwich on a GF bun and it was quite possibly the tastiest bite I've had in a few years. Our waiter was also top notch, can't wait to go back before our trip is over.” -Yelp Review

18. Bang Up To The Elephant

An All-Vegan Restaurant with Food You’ll Fall in Love With

📍 1310 Pearl St | Denver | banguptotheelephant.restaurant

Finding food as a vegan can be difficult, especially when there are so many options for meat-eaters out there and vegans are often a second, even third thought. But in recent years vegan food has been making its way to the podium and more restaurants have been popping up with plant-based favorites like Bang Up To The Elephant in Denver! 

Enjoy plenty of cocktails and other drinks, along with starters for dinner like the Curried Waffle Fries and Cauliflower Wings. Then dig into Coconut Curry, Seitan Cuban sandwich, and cornbread on the side for a great time.

“The Buss Up Shut is my comfort food! I love this place, but honestly I haven't connected as much with the other foods they offer. I do like the edamame” -Yelp Review

19. Rhein Haus Denver

A German-Style Beer Hall with Plenty to Eat and Drink

📍 1415 Market St | Denver | rheinhausdenver.com

Serving up beer and brats for almost 10 years now, Rhein Haus is a unique restaurant that has:

• Four bocce courts: (bocce is fun game the whole family can play and is pretty easy to learn)
• Plenty of German and local brews “featured on 24 drafts”
• And classic German fare that you’ll want to come back to time and time again at this themed restaurant in Denver

It’s a wide-open restaurant with high ceilings and big windows giving off a nice spacious vibe. Eat up on their House Baked Pretzel, Oktoberfest Wings, Cheddarwurst Sliders, and The Denver Braut which is a favorite.

“The giant pretzel was good! Colby done a great job as our waiter. They had the Rockies game on, as well as the Olympics and a Bocce ball court in the middle of the restaurant. Great German restaurant.” -Yelp Review

That’s it for the best themed restaurants in Denver! These kinds of restaurants are popular for both their exciting experiences and delicious foods. Many people come to these locations looking for a new venture and a change of pace. You will find all of this and more with a craft-made cocktail and fresh dinner.