Themed restaurants can be some of the most memorable and adventurous nights out because you never know what you’re getting yourself into! Each restaurant in this list has its own unique theme -- if you’re looking for a specific night out, like for a tiki themed birthday party, we know the best place for the occasion! 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 eating and socializing experience.
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2532 15th St | Denver | facebook.com/Forest-Room-5
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.
“Truly one of my favourite bars in Denver. Great bartenders, service, and atmosphere. Campfire X is the drink that introduced me to the world of Mezcal.” - Yelp Review
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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 limoncello with guava syrup to daiquiris and a variety of pineapple flavored drinks! Their limited menu features small plates -- volcano fries, edamame hummus, and tempura shrimp. Pair one of these delicious starters with a craft made cocktail and the night begins at this fun tiki bar.
“Adrift embodies the tiki theme and hosts a well-manicured bar/restaurant. Grab a drink up at the bar, have a more cozy meal at one of their booths or grab a bite on one of their outdoor patio tables in the back.” - Yelp Review
2030 W 30th Ave | Denver | lingerdenver.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!
“During my visit to Denver we stopped in this little spot. Morgue turned restaurant. Was not disappointed at all. Drinks were good and all the food was amazing.. I really liked the set up and all the lights.” - Yelp Review
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.
At the restaurant, you can find rustic decor featuring reclaimed wood counters. They are currently serving a limited menu of starters, mains, and sweets -- each with their own unique style. They offer a little something for everyone in their main dish section complete with a fish, filet, chicken, and vegetable option for each dietary need. Finish off your meal with a warm apple crostata and enjoy your experience at The Plimoth.
“I think this has to be one of my favorite restaurants in town. Located in the city park neighborhood the atmosphere is unique and as if you're walking into a friends house for dinner.” - Yelp Review
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700 Water St | Denver | aquariumrestaurants.com
You can find Aquarium Restaurant located in Downtown Aquarium in Denver. This can be a fun experience for the whole family, start with a trip to the aquarium, 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 Carribean Sea, Hawaii, South Pacific, and Indian Ocean. This lounge comes with both a delicious meal and lively entertainment.
“Great way to finish a trip to the aquarium. Stopped to have a drink and we found they had a great happy hour. The food was great! And the drinks were simply lovely. I would definitely recommend this place again and again.” - Yelp Review
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3040 Blake St #101 | Denver | thepreservery.com
The Preservary is located inside a restored warehouse and showcases a number of contemporary artworks. In the restaurant they offer food, music, and a community atmosphere as well as an event space. Their website features a blog that includes their commitment to community, good food, and sharing their wisdom with others.
In the restaurant, you can find a case filled with baked goods such as pumpkin pie, salted chocolate chip cookies, and sesame siren cookies made with tahini, white chocolate chips, and dried apricots. Their regular menu features a little bit of everything from starters to sandwiches and burgers to soup and salad and brunch! They also offer a special get a meal, give a meal where they give one plate to someone in need, or you can purchase ‘straight up’ which goes directly to someone in need. This restaurant offers good food and a commitment to bettering their community.
“Everything and I do mean everything is special here. It was one of those mind blowing experiences. Came on a quiet Thursday night and were lucky enough to have beautiful live music as well. Nice volume, chill tone, perfect vibe.” - Yelp Review
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3760 Tejon St | Denver | gaetanositalian.com
Founded by a mob family, this iconic 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 traditional Italian meal to satisfy your cravings, give Gaetano’s a try and find everything you would want right on your plate.
“I was visiting Denver with a friend and we decided to go to Gaetano's and it was AMAZING. It was some of the best Italian food I've had and our service was amazing. Thank you to Amber for being such a great server.” - Yelp Review
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Themed restaurants are for both the exciting experience and delicious foods, you come to these locations looking for a new adventure and a change of pace. At the you will find all of this and more over a craft made cocktail and fresh dinner made from ingredients found all over the world.
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 Enchilada and Taco Platter and Casa Chilada Platter. Want to try a little bit of everything? Try the All-You-Can-Eat Deluxe Dinner featuring a crispy taco, two enchiladas, and numerous sides.
“I've been coming here my whole life as it is a Colorado tradition and honestly it is nice to see something frozen in time. It is odd, it is quirky and definitely one of a kind. Go in with a child's eye for the interesting oddities and you will have a great time.” - Yelp Review
781 S Federal Blvd, Suite A | Southwest | 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. Located in Southwest Denver, the 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!
“Not only is this place BOMB as hell! They were very nice and helpful on the phone when I asked questions. I had their crab legs and they were affordable, seasoned very well, delicious and filling! I have been craving to go back ever since, I just hate that it's so far away!” - Yelp Review
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1000 Osage St | Lincoln Park, Southwest | buckhornexchange.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.
“The restaurant has been in continuous operation since 1893. The artifacts on the walls pay tribute to the last three decades. You'll spend as much time looking at the museum pieces as you will having dinner.” - Yelp Review
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3160 Tejon St | Northwest, Highland | 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. Williams & Graham is pretty popular, so we recommend making a reservation in advance to ensure you get a spot inside at your desired time.
“I love the feel of walking into a speakeasy and this definitely did not disappoint! We did not order food since we just came from dinner, but the food menu looked good. The drinks though...Phenomenal.” - Yelp Review
Themed restaurants are popular for both their exciting experiences and delicious foods. Many people come to these locations looking for a new adventure and a change of pace. You will find all of this and more with a craft-made cocktail and fresh dinner.
