Best of Denver
🥂 Best Date Night Restaurants in Denver
Date night deserves more than just another dinner reservation. Luckily, Denver’s restaurant scene is stacked with spots that bring the romance: think skyline views, candlelit Italian hideaways, plush hotel lounges, and live jazz clubs where the music lingers long after dessert. Whether you’re out to impress on a first date or keeping the spark alive with your longtime love, these restaurants set the perfect backdrop.
From rooftop sunsets and modern steakhouses to cozy neighborhood gems, here’s our curated list of the best date night restaurants in Denver — the places locals turn to when they want food, drinks, and ambiance that feel unforgettable.
Best Skyline Views: El Five — panoramic sunsets and Mediterranean small plates.
Best Italian Romance: Jovanina’s Broken Italian — rustic charm and a hidden candlelit lounge.
Best Dinner + a Show: Nocturne — soulful live jazz with multi-course menus.
A relative newcomer making waves, Stellar Jay combines sleek design with warm hospitality. Expect creative seasonal plates, a strong cocktail game, and an ambiance that feels sophisticated without being stiff. The lighting is soft, the booths are intimate, and the menu encourages sharing — perfect for couples who want both romance and a little adventure. With its chic-but-welcoming energy, it’s quickly becoming a Denver favorite for date nights.
🌆 Rooftop Vibes: The rooftop offers unique views of Denver’s skyline and Rocky Mountains, making it ideal for summer patio dining and sunset cocktails.
🍄 Must-Try Dishes: The tempura mushrooms and gnocchi come highly recommended by locals and repeat visitors.
🍸 Cocktail Culture: Signature cocktails like the Summer Mule and Last Word gin cocktail are favorites and worth sampling during a visit.
🕓 Timing Tips: Arrive early or book reservations to avoid long waits, especially on weekends, as seating is limited and demand is high.
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Downtown’s sleek steakhouse, Guard and Grace, is the definition of elevated date night dining. The soaring ceilings, modern design, and glowing wine cellar create an atmosphere that’s both grand and intimate. Perfectly cooked steaks headline the menu, but don’t overlook the raw bar or inventive sides. It’s the kind of spot where dressing up feels right, and every detail — from cocktails to service — sets the stage for a special night together.
🍷 Expert Wine Pairings: Staff are well-versed in the wine list and can expertly pair wines with your meal to enhance flavors.
🥩 Small Portions, Big Flavor: Guests appreciate the option of 4oz cuts, allowing for variety without overwhelming portions.
🍪 Must-Try Desserts: The chocolate chip cookies and sticky toffee cake come highly recommended for a sweet finish.
🌿 Patio Ambiance: The patio offers a stylish and relaxed vibe, perfect for warmer months and enjoying Denver evenings.
For couples who love to share, Barcelona Wine Bar in RiNo is a lively, Spanish-inspired escape. The tapas-style menu encourages lingering over plates of patatas bravas, charcuterie, and garlicky gambas while sipping from an extensive list of Spanish wines. The lighting is dim, the space buzzes with energy, and the cozy corners offer a touch of intimacy. It’s vibrant, social, and endlessly romantic — exactly the kind of date night spot where time disappears.
🍤 Paella Patience Pays Off: The signature paella takes about 30 minutes but is well worth the wait, served fresh and hot straight from the pan.
🍷 Bar Seating Perks: Guests recommend snagging a seat at the marble bar for personalized recommendations from expert bartenders.
🌞 Weekend Brunch Vibes: Brunch is available only on weekends with lively atmosphere; reservations are highly recommended.
🌿 Seasonal Tapas: The menu evolves seasonally, so expect exciting new dishes like fresh tomato and corn salads in summer.
A5 Steakhouse blends old-school indulgence with modern Denver flair. Known for its high-quality cuts, stellar seafood, and impeccable service, it’s the type of place that elevates a special night into something memorable. The room is polished but warm, with moody lighting that makes every table feel private. Whether you’re toasting with champagne or sharing steak frites, A5 hits the sweet spot for couples who want classic romance with a contemporary twist
🍸 Happy Hour Highlights: Enjoy the daily happy hour from 3:30 to 5:30 PM featuring fresh oysters and expertly crafted cocktails at great prices.
👩💼 Request Carly or Jade: These servers are frequently mentioned for their outstanding hospitality and personalized service, enhancing the dining experience.
🥩 Signature Cuts to Try: The tri-tip with black garlic sauce and picanha receive high praise and are must-try dishes for steak enthusiasts.
🏙️ Upstairs Seating Considerations: Some guests noted noise and activity disruptions near the plating area upstairs, so request seating away from the kitchen if possible.
If dinner and a show is your love language, Nocturne is the move. This RiNo jazz and supper club pairs seasonal prix fixe menus with nightly live performances, creating an atmosphere that’s sultry and soulful. The acoustics wrap around you, the cocktails are crafted with flair, and the vibe is equal parts glamorous and intimate. It’s not just a meal, it’s an experience — and one of the most memorable date night settings in Denver.
🎷 Music Timing Matters:Arrive early on weekends to catch the full live jazz sets and secure great seats in the intimate lounge.
🍷 Wine & Food Pairing:Nocturne’s sommelier offers expert wine pairings especially with their tasting menus for a fully rounded experience.
🍸 Bar Seating Perk: For a more casual night, bar seating offers some of the best views of the band plus quick access to top cocktail offerings.
🎉 Perfect for Celebrations: Known for thoughtful service, it’s a top choice for anniversaries and special dates with customizable experiences.
Jovanina’s Broken Italian is all about rustic charm with a rebellious streak. The upstairs space glows with modern Italian flair, but for romance, head downstairs to Sotto Voce — the candlelit, subterranean lounge where soft lighting, vintage vibes, and Italian wines flow. The handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas are soulful and shareable, making it perfect for a cozy, indulgent evening. It’s Denver’s version of a secret Italian love story, hidden in plain sight.
🍷 Sommelier's Touch: The sommelier often provides personalized wine recommendations and explanations, enhancing the dining experience—ask for their guidance.
🍽️ Request Basement Seating: The downstairs area offers a unique intimate speakeasy vibe and is quieter than the main floor; mention this preference when booking.
⏰ Plan for Peak Times: Dinner hours can get loud and busy; arrive early in the evening Tuesday to Thursday for a calmer atmosphere and prompt service.
🚗 Parking Tips: Paid parking is available but can be tough to find; consider ride-share options for convenience.
Tucked into the Wash Park neighborhood, Jacks on Pearl offers a mix of stylish seafood and warm ambiance that feels both polished and approachable. Couples love the sustainable, fresh-focused menu, which leans on oysters, fish, and elevated land options too. The dining room glows with modern coastal charm, and the wine list keeps things lively. It’s the kind of place that feels like a find — romantic without trying too hard.
🍣 Don’t Miss the Dry-Aged Sashimi: The unique sashimi bar is a standout feature, offering a flavor experience unlike any other in the city.
🕒 Arrive Early for Happy Hour: Tuesday to Sunday from 3:30 PM to 5 PM, enjoy great deals on drinks and small plates, especially on the rooftop patio.
🥩 Try the Australian Wagyu Ribeye: Highly recommended by locals for steak connoisseurs craving top-tier quality.
🍪 Save Room for Dessert: The chocolate chip cookie is hailed as a must-try finale, often described as the best dessert guests have ever had.
Inside the Life House Hotel, Wildflower feels like stepping into another world. With its moody lighting, floral accents, and rustic Western-meets-bohemian design, the ambiance is as much a reason to come as the food itself. The menu is seasonal and inventive, while the cocktails are infused with botanical notes. Romantic, whimsical, and undeniably stylish, Wildflower is ideal for couples who want something a little magical woven into their dinner.
🍷 Wine Pairing Expertise: Ask for Shaun or Tyler to enhance your meal with knowledgeable, engaging wine and cocktail pairings that elevate the dining experience.
🌿 Vegetarian-Friendly Options: The restaurant highly recommends vegetarians try the tasting menu, which features fresh, organic dishes with creative flavors.
🕰️ Take Your Time: The tasting menus are multi-course and meant to be savored; expect a leisurely experience rather than a quick meal.
🚗 Parking Tips: Free street parking is available but can be difficult to find, so plan to arrive early or consider nearby parking options.
Kumoya is intimate, dramatic, and effortlessly chic. Its Japanese-inspired menu offers elevated sushi and seasonal dishes, all served in a setting accented with striking chandeliers and sleek design. The atmosphere is moody without being overwhelming, striking a balance between refined and inviting. Perfect for couples who love a little edge with their romance, Kumoya is a stylish pick for date nights that want to feel both cosmopolitan and cozy.
🍣 Best for Sushi Lovers: Chef Cory features rare seasonal fish like Copper River salmon and Japanese snapper not commonly found elsewhere.
🍸 Happy Hour at the Bar: Enjoy 30% off sushi rolls Sunday through Thursday from 5 to 7 PM, but only at the sushi bar seating.
💡 Mandatory Service Fee: Be aware of the 20% automatic service charge, which is applied before discounts, affecting final pricing.
🎎 Authentic Experience: Sitting at the sushi bar offers a more engaging experience, though interaction with the chef may vary.
Perched above LoHi, El Five offers one of the most stunning date night settings in the city. With panoramic views of downtown, eclectic Mediterranean plates, and vibrant cocktails, it feels like a cinematic backdrop for romance. The interior buzzes with energy — bright artwork, lively music, and a crowd that loves to linger. For couples who thrive on atmosphere and a touch of drama, El Five delivers skyline magic every time.
🌇 Rooftop Views Are a Highlight: Opt for a window or balcony seat for unbeatable panoramic views of the Highland neighborhood skyline.
🍽️ Pace Your Tapas Experience: Order small plates gradually since some guests felt dishes arrived all at once; pacing enhances the shared experience.
🍸 Happy Hour Perks: Visit Thursday through Saturday from 4 to 5 PM for great happy hour food and drink specials on the rooftop.
⚠️ Allergy Caution: Despite gluten-free options on the menu, cross-contamination risks exist; guests with severe allergies should inquire carefully.
Overlooking the Cherry Creek bike path, Coohills offers an ambiance that’s both contemporary and calming. French-inspired dishes headline the menu, with options like duck confit, escargot, and thoughtfully plated seafood. The interior is modern yet warm, and in warmer months, the patio’s string lights add romance with a downtown view. Coohills is perfect for couples who want a refined dining experience without feeling overly formal.
🎶 Live Music Vibes: Enjoy Coohills during the summer concert series for a vibrant dining experience with live beats on the patio.
🍰 Must-Try Desserts: Don’t miss the acclaimed bread pudding, often highlighted as a standout menu item by regulars.
🍽️ Event-Friendly Venue: Ideal for receptions and group events thanks to its spacious urban patio and private dining options.
🍷 Pre-Game Hub: Popular spot to gather before Nuggets or Avalanche games, offering great cocktails and a lively atmosphere.
In the heart of Larimer Square, Osteria Marco is cozy Italian at its finest. The brick-lined interior glows with soft lighting, and the menu leans into handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and charcuterie that’s ideal for sharing. The vibe is intimate and relaxed, making it one of Denver’s most approachable — yet still undeniably romantic — Italian spots. For date night that’s classic, comforting, and delicious, Osteria Marco always delivers.
🍕 Pizza Size: All pizzas are a generous 12 inches, perfect for sharing or solo indulgence.
🍹 Seasonal Drinks: Try their rotating seasonal cocktail menu for unique summer flavors.
🎉 Group Friendly: The restaurant handles large parties smoothly, ideal for celebrations or group dinners.
🪟 Cozy Basement Vibes: Seating is downstairs, offering a unique, intimate atmosphere distinct from street level.
From skyline views to candlelit Italian cellars, Denver has no shortage of restaurants that turn a night out into something unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a first date, an anniversary, or just a midweek spark, these spots deliver the right mix of food, drinks, and ambiance. Bookmark this list for your next romantic outing, browse our full restaurant directory for even more options, and when you’re ready to keep the evening going, check out our Best Rooftop Bars in Denver guide.
Denver has plenty of romantic restaurants perfect for date night. Guard and Grace offers a sleek downtown steakhouse experience with a glowing wine cellar. El Five delivers breathtaking skyline views with Mediterranean plates, while Wildflower feels whimsical and stylish inside the Life House Hotel. For cozy Italian charm, Osteria Marco and Jovanina’s Broken Italian (with its secret candlelit lounge, Sotto Voce) are hard to beat.
For a first date in Denver, choose restaurants that are lively but not too formal. Barcelona Wine Bar is ideal — the tapas menu makes sharing easy and the vibe stays fun. Coohills offers a French-inspired menu in a romantic yet approachable space, while Kumoya adds modern flair with elevated sushi in a stylish setting. These spots keep the mood light while still feeling memorable.
Yes, most of Denver’s top date night restaurants recommend or require reservations, especially on weekends. Popular spots like El Five, Guard and Grace, Barcelona Wine Bar, and Stellar Jay fill quickly. For speakeasy-style settings like Jovanina’s Broken Italian (downstairs lounge), reservations ensure you get a table in the most romantic corners. Booking ahead is always the safest bet for a seamless date night.
Some of the best date night restaurants in Denver are clustered in key neighborhoods. RiNo is home to hot spots like Barcelona Wine Bar and Nocturne. LoHi shines with skyline stunners like El Five. Downtown/LoDo has steakhouse favorites like Guard and Grace and A5. For Italian romance, Larimer Square houses Osteria Marco and Jovanina’s. Each neighborhood offers a unique vibe for your night out.
If you want a date night that feels different, Nocturne combines dinner with live jazz for a full evening experience. Wildflower mixes rustic Western charm with a modern boutique-hotel feel. Jovanina’s Broken Italian hides a secret underground lounge, while El Five is all about skyline drama. These aren’t just restaurants—they’re experiences designed to impress.
From skyline views to candlelit Italian cellars, Denver has no shortage of restaurants that turn a night out into something unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a first date, an anniversary, or just a midweek spark, these spots deliver the right mix of food, drinks, and ambiance. Bookmark this list for your next romantic outing, browse our full restaurant directory for even more options, and when you’re ready to keep the evening going, check out our Best Rooftop Bars in Denver guide.
From skyline views to candlelit Italian cellars, Denver has no shortage of restaurants that turn a night out into something unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a first date, an anniversary, or just a midweek spark, these spots deliver the right mix of food, drinks, and ambiance. Bookmark this list for your next romantic outing, browse our full restaurant directory for even more options, and when you’re ready to keep the evening going, check out our Best Rooftop Bars in Denver guide.
Denver has plenty of romantic restaurants perfect for date night. Guard and Grace offers a sleek downtown steakhouse experience with a glowing wine cellar. El Five delivers breathtaking skyline views with Mediterranean plates, while Wildflower feels whimsical and stylish inside the Life House Hotel. For cozy Italian charm, Osteria Marco and Jovanina’s Broken Italian (with its secret candlelit lounge, Sotto Voce) are hard to beat.
Denver has plenty of romantic restaurants perfect for date night. Guard and Grace offers a sleek downtown steakhouse experience with a glowing wine cellar. El Five delivers breathtaking skyline views with Mediterranean plates, while Wildflower feels whimsical and stylish inside the Life House Hotel. For cozy Italian charm, Osteria Marco and Jovanina’s Broken Italian (with its secret candlelit lounge, Sotto Voce) are hard to beat.
For a first date in Denver, choose restaurants that are lively but not too formal. Barcelona Wine Bar is ideal — the tapas menu makes sharing easy and the vibe stays fun. Coohills offers a French-inspired menu in a romantic yet approachable space, while Kumoya adds modern flair with elevated sushi in a stylish setting. These spots keep the mood light while still feeling memorable.
For a first date in Denver, choose restaurants that are lively but not too formal. Barcelona Wine Bar is ideal — the tapas menu makes sharing easy and the vibe stays fun. Coohills offers a French-inspired menu in a romantic yet approachable space, while Kumoya adds modern flair with elevated sushi in a stylish setting. These spots keep the mood light while still feeling memorable.
Celebrating an anniversary in Denver? A5 Steakhouse is a favorite for its polished yet intimate atmosphere and perfectly cooked steaks. For a dinner with live music, Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club pairs multi-course meals with soulful jazz. Wildflower and Stellar Jay offer stylish, intimate settings for a romantic celebration, while El Five makes any milestone unforgettable with its sweeping city views.
Celebrating an anniversary in Denver? A5 Steakhouse is a favorite for its polished yet intimate atmosphere and perfectly cooked steaks. For a dinner with live music, Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club pairs multi-course meals with soulful jazz. Wildflower and Stellar Jay offer stylish, intimate settings for a romantic celebration, while El Five makes any milestone unforgettable with its sweeping city views.
Yes, most of Denver’s top date night restaurants recommend or require reservations, especially on weekends. Popular spots like El Five, Guard and Grace, Barcelona Wine Bar, and Stellar Jay fill quickly. For speakeasy-style settings like Jovanina’s Broken Italian (downstairs lounge), reservations ensure you get a table in the most romantic corners. Booking ahead is always the safest bet for a seamless date night.
Yes, most of Denver’s top date night restaurants recommend or require reservations, especially on weekends. Popular spots like El Five, Guard and Grace, Barcelona Wine Bar, and Stellar Jay fill quickly. For speakeasy-style settings like Jovanina’s Broken Italian (downstairs lounge), reservations ensure you get a table in the most romantic corners. Booking ahead is always the safest bet for a seamless date night.
Some of the best date night restaurants in Denver are clustered in key neighborhoods. RiNo is home to hot spots like Barcelona Wine Bar and Nocturne. LoHi shines with skyline stunners like El Five. Downtown/LoDo has steakhouse favorites like Guard and Grace and A5. For Italian romance, Larimer Square houses Osteria Marco and Jovanina’s. Each neighborhood offers a unique vibe for your night out.
Some of the best date night restaurants in Denver are clustered in key neighborhoods. RiNo is home to hot spots like Barcelona Wine Bar and Nocturne. LoHi shines with skyline stunners like El Five. Downtown/LoDo has steakhouse favorites like Guard and Grace and A5. For Italian romance, Larimer Square houses Osteria Marco and Jovanina’s. Each neighborhood offers a unique vibe for your night out.
If you want a date night that feels different, Nocturne combines dinner with live jazz for a full evening experience. Wildflower mixes rustic Western charm with a modern boutique-hotel feel. Jovanina’s Broken Italian hides a secret underground lounge, while El Five is all about skyline drama. These aren’t just restaurants—they’re experiences designed to impress.
