Best of Denver

Best Restaurants in Capitol Hill ๐Ÿ›๏ธ

From farm-to-table gems to international standouts, Capitol Hillโ€™s restaurant scene blends comfort classics with inspired fare in lively, welcoming spaces.
Angela Hart
Last Updated:
September 16, 2025
Written by Angela Hart and Denver Curated Staff.

Capitol Hill stands out as one of Denverโ€™s most eclectic dining neighborhoods, home to an array of restaurants where culinary creativity meets community charm. Here, celebrated vegetarian kitchens draw loyal brunch crowds, while Old World Italian spots, modern Vietnamese eateries, and innovative New American bistros offer something distinct for every palate.

Whether youโ€™re seeking a relaxed dog-friendly patio, elegant tasting menus for a special occasion, or eclectic tapas and craft cocktails, this Capitol Hill guide showcases must-visit restaurants with character and depth.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธโœจ Quick Picks

๐ŸŒฑ Best Vegetarian Innovation: City O' City โ€” Inventive plant-forward comfort food and lively brunch scene.

๐Ÿ Best Date Night: Odyssey Italian Restaurant โ€” Cozy classic Italian with live music in a historic home.

๐ŸŒฎ Best Group Spot: La Loma โ€” Festive, family-run Mexican favorites and signature margaritas.

City O' City

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๐Ÿฅ— Vegan & Vegetarian
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๐ŸŒณ Capitol Hill

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City O' City is a staple among the most unique restaurants in Denver, drawing crowds with its inventive vegetarian comfort food and playful twists like carrot bacon and seitan wings. A laid-back, artsy setting welcomes brunch lovers and coffee aficionados, while the dog-friendly patio is a neighborhood favorite.

๐Ÿ“ Local Insights

๐ŸŒž Brunch Reservations Recommended: To avoid waits during peak weekend brunch hours, book ahead especially for their popular breakfast burrito.

๐Ÿพ Dog Friendly Patio: Outdoor seating welcomes dogs, making it a great stop for pet owners who want to dine with their furry friends.

๐Ÿน Happy Hour Specials: Visit between 3โ€“6 PM daily for discounted drinks and small plates, perfect for casual gatherings.

๐Ÿš— Parking Challenges: Street parking is free but limited; plan to arrive early or consider rideshare during busy times.

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La Loma

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๐ŸŒฎ Mexican
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๐ŸŒณ Capitol Hill

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La Loma brings upscale-rustic charm to the list of best Mexican restaurants in Denver with its family-run kitchen and a reputation for bold flavors. Signature green chile and stuffed sopapillas headline a menu complemented by hearty portions and strong margaritas. Guests can expect attentive service, vegetarian-friendly options, and a popular happy hour (Monday through Friday).

๐Ÿ“ Local Insights

๐Ÿน Happy Hour Highlights: Visit Monday through Friday from 3โ€“6 PM for the best deals on margaritas and small plates.

๐Ÿฅ˜ Signature Green Chile: The green chile is a must-try staple, with many guests returning just for its rich, authentic flavor.

๐Ÿš— Parking Tips: Valet parking is available and street parking is paid; arriving early helps secure easier parking spots.

๐ŸŒฟ Vegetarian Options: Several dishes are vegetarian-friendly, including fresh guacamole and small plates, ideal for varied group tastes.

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Angeloโ€™s Taverna

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๐Ÿ Italian
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๐ŸŒณ Capitol Hill

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Angeloโ€™s Taverna delivers casual Italian fare in a warm, trendy space known for fresh oysters, stone oven pizzas, and friendly, attentive service. Highlights include the daily happy hour, with specials on both food and drinks, and the standout Vodka Pasta, a consistent favorite. Mussel Monday deals attract locals, making this spot a go-to for relaxed group dinners or family gatherings. It gets busiest around dinner, especially on weekends, so plan ahead.

๐Ÿ“ Local Insights

๐Ÿฆช Mussel Monday Deals: Visit on Mondays for popular mussel specials that locals rave about.

๐Ÿน Happy Hour Every Day: Take advantage of two daily happy hours with great food and drink discounts.

๐Ÿ Try the Vodka Pasta: A standout dish frequently recommended by regulars for its rich flavor.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Bar Seating for Quick Service: Snag a spot at the bar during busy times to skip the wait and enjoy attentive service.

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Odyssey Italian Restaurant

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๐Ÿ Italian
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๐ŸŒณ Capitol Hill

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Odyssey Italian Restaurant captures the essence of home-style Italian dining, with cherished family recipes like Lobster Ravioli and Spaghetti and Meatballs served in a historic, intimate space. Live music evenings and a well-chosen wine list enhance the experience, while Monday night pasta specials offer unbeatable value. This welcoming spot is ideal for date nights, family dinners, and group celebrations, with a lively crowd during weekends and on live music nights.

๐Ÿ“ Local Insights

๐Ÿ Monday Pasta Special: Monday nights offer unbeatable $11 pasta specials, perfect for budget-friendly group dinners.

๐Ÿท Wine Pairings: The wine list is thoughtfully curated; ask staff for pairings to complement your pasta dish.

๐ŸŽถ Live Music Vibes: Visit on evenings with live music for a cozy, romantic ambiance enhancing your dining experience.

๐ŸŒฟ Patio Seating: Outdoor seating is available and ideal during warmer months for a relaxed meal with a street view.

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Potager

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๐Ÿด Contemporary
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๐ŸŒณ Capitol Hill

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Potager is cherished for its rustic, farm-to-table menu that changes monthly, spotlighting organic seasonal ingredients and thoughtfully paired wines. The warm, lively atmosphere and cozy setting make it a favorite for anniversary dinners. Guests can savor specialties like soufflรฉ and duck croquettes, or enjoy gourmet desserts on the inviting outdoor patio.

๐Ÿ“ Local Insights

๐ŸŒฟ Seasonal Menu Shifts: The menu changes monthly to reflect local harvestsโ€”ask servers for the freshest picks.

๐Ÿท Wine Pairing Advice: Staff is knowledgeable; ask for wine pairings to perfectly complement each dish.

๐Ÿ” Tuesday Burger Deal: Try the Tuesday burger and beer special, highly rated and a local favorite.

โ˜€๏ธ Outdoor Seating: Outdoor patio is great for warm evenings, especially during spring and summer seasons.

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Mizuna

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๐Ÿด Contemporary
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๐ŸŒณ Capitol Hill

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Mizuna delivers imaginative New American tasting menus and signature classics like Beef Wellington and Lobster Mac & Cheese, earning its spot among best anniversary restaurants in Denver. The space feels both refined and inviting, paired with a well-chosen wine list and attentive, personalized service. Gluten-free and vegetarian accommodations are cared for seamlessly. This intimate restaurant is especially popular for birthdays, anniversaries, and midweek Welly Wednesday dinners.

๐Ÿ“ Local Insights

๐Ÿพ Celebrate Special Occasions Here: Mizuna offers personalized touches like complimentary champagne and take-home treats for birthdays and anniversaries.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Welly Wednesday Special: Enjoy a three-course dinner midweek featuring the standout Beef Wellington for a $60 fixed price, available dine-in or to-go.

๐Ÿธ Best Seats at the Bar: Guests rave about sitting at the bar for an immersive experience with mixologist Adam, who crafts exceptional cocktails tailored to your taste.

๐ŸŒฟ Dietary Accommodations Excellence: The kitchen expertly modifies dishes for allergies or preferences, making it a great spot for gluten-free and vegetarian diners.

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Jelly Cafe

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๐Ÿฅž Brunch
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๐ŸŒณ Capitol Hill

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Jelly Cafe keeps brunch playful with a retro diner vibe full of bright colors and vintage touches. Menu favorites include cornflake French toast, lavender-blueberry pancakes, and hearty hashes, but the real stars are their rotating house-made donut bites. The space buzzes with energy on weekends, and though thereโ€™s often a line, itโ€™s worth the wait. For a brunch that feels casual, nostalgic, and fun, Jelly Cafe has earned its reputation as a Denver staple.

๐Ÿ“ Local Insights

๐Ÿฉ Must-Try Donut Holes: The uniquely flavored mini donuts, especially the peanut butter, are a crowd favorite and worth ordering.

๐Ÿ•– Early Brunch Beat the Crowd: Arriving right at opening (7 AM) on weekdays helps avoid the usual long waits and noisy rush.

๐Ÿพ Dog-Friendly Patio: Outdoor seating welcomes dogs, making it perfect for those who want to dine with their furry friends.

๐Ÿคซ Mixed Atmosphere: Expect moderate to very loud noise levels on busy days; perfect for lively groups but challenging for quiet conversations.

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The 9th Door Capitol Hill

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๐Ÿฅ™ Mediterranean
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๐ŸŒณ Capitol Hill

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๐Ÿ“ Local Insights

๐Ÿธ Bartender Max Is a Pro: Regulars recommend ordering cocktails crafted by Max for a personalized drink experience.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Try the Paella Early: Paella requires 45 minutes to prepare, so order it early to enjoy fresh and hot.

๐ŸŽ‰ Happy Hour All Night in Bar: Sunday nights feature all-night happy hour specialsโ€”perfect for bar seating and casual vibes.

๐Ÿš— Street Parking Tips: Paid street parking is available and usually plentiful, but can be stressful; plan accordingly.

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Anise

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๐Ÿฒ Vietnamese
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๐ŸŒณ Capitol Hill

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๐Ÿ“ Local Insights

๐Ÿฅข Dietary Friendly: Anise is celebrated for accommodating vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets with naturally gluten-free pho options.

๐Ÿน Japanese Whisky Experience: Try their unique selection of Japanese whiskies for a special pairing with your meal.

๐ŸŒฟ Weekend Brunch Vibes: The weekend brunch draws a lively crowd, perfect for discovering fresh takes on classic Vietnamese flavors.

๐Ÿš— Parking Tips: Street parking is a mix of free and paid spots, but finding a space can be somewhat difficultโ€”arrive early for best luck.

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DiFranco's

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๐Ÿ Italian
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๐ŸŒณ Capitol Hill

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๐Ÿ“ Local Insights

๐Ÿ Gluten-Free Delights: The gluten-free pasta and cannolis are highly recommended and taste as authentic as traditional recipes.

๐Ÿฅ‚ Ownerโ€™s Hospitality: Regular diners note the owner's generous gestures like complimentary cannolis or champagne on special occasions.

๐Ÿท Happy Hour Highlights: Tuesdays to Saturdays feature happy hours with drink specials, especially long hours on Thursdays until 9 PM.

๐Ÿš— Parking Perks: Despite its downtown location, free parking garage access is usually available, easing your visit.

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Capitol Hillโ€™s best restaurants combine creative menus, cozy spaces, and confident hospitality making the neighborhood a true dining destination for locals and visitors alike.

Add these standouts to your must-try list, explore new flavors, and bookmark this guide for your next meal out. Check our directory for even more Capitol Hill eats and browse our related guide for nightlife spots to round out your evening.

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Capitol Hillโ€™s best restaurants combine creative menus, cozy spaces, and confident hospitality making the neighborhood a true dining destination for locals and visitors alike.

Add these standouts to your must-try list, explore new flavors, and bookmark this guide for your next meal out. Check our directory for even more Capitol Hill eats and browse our related guide for nightlife spots to round out your evening.

No items found.

Capitol Hillโ€™s best restaurants combine creative menus, cozy spaces, and confident hospitality making the neighborhood a true dining destination for locals and visitors alike.

Add these standouts to your must-try list, explore new flavors, and bookmark this guide for your next meal out. Check our directory for even more Capitol Hill eats and browse our related guide for nightlife spots to round out your evening.

FAQs

What are the best restaurants in Capitol Hill Denver for unique dining experiences?
Some of the best restaurants in Capitol Hill Denver include Potager, where a market-driven menu highlights local ingredients, and City O' City, beloved for its creative vegetarian fare and lively brunches. Mizuna stands out with its refined tasting menus, while The 9th Door Capitol Hill combines inventive Spanish tapas with stellar cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting.

Some of the best restaurants in Capitol Hill Denver include Potager, where a market-driven menu highlights local ingredients, and City O' City, beloved for its creative vegetarian fare and lively brunches. Mizuna stands out with its refined tasting menus, while The 9th Door Capitol Hill combines inventive Spanish tapas with stellar cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting.

Where can I find exceptional brunch in Capitol Hill?

For brunch in Capitol Hill, Jelly Cafe is a top pick, known for its mini donuts, inventive egg dishes, and vibrant patio. City Oโ€™ City is another brunch favorite, offering plant-forward comfort classics and house-made pastries. Both spots feature friendly service and outdoor seating for a laid-back morning meal.

For brunch in Capitol Hill, Jelly Cafe is a top pick, known for its mini donuts, inventive egg dishes, and vibrant patio. City Oโ€™ City is another brunch favorite, offering plant-forward comfort classics and house-made pastries. Both spots feature friendly service and outdoor seating for a laid-back morning meal.
Which Capitol Hill spots are ideal for date night or special occasions?

Odyssey Italian Restaurant offers candlelit dinners, live music, and comforting plates perfect for romantic evenings. Mizuna is ideal for special occasions, with tasting menus, wine pairings, and attentive service. Potagerโ€™s cozy setting and seasonal menu also make it a memorable choice for intimate dinners.

Odyssey Italian Restaurant offers candlelit dinners, live music, and comforting plates perfect for romantic evenings. Mizuna is ideal for special occasions, with tasting menus, wine pairings, and attentive service. Potagerโ€™s cozy setting and seasonal menu also make it a memorable choice for intimate dinners.
Are there good vegetarian or vegan restaurants near Capitol Hill Denver?

Yes, City Oโ€™ City is renowned for its vegetarian and vegan dishes that satisfy all palates. Potager regularly features beautifully prepared vegetable-focused plates on its seasonal menu. Anise also offers creative vegan and gluten-free options within the neighborhood.

Yes, City Oโ€™ City is renowned for its vegetarian and vegan dishes that satisfy all palates. Potager regularly features beautifully prepared vegetable-focused plates on its seasonal menu. Anise also offers creative vegan and gluten-free options within the neighborhood.
Is street parking available at Capitol Hill restaurants, and is it easy to find?

Street parking is available near most Capitol Hill restaurants, though spots often fill quickly, especially at peak times. Potager, Jelly Cafe, and La Loma all note limited parking, advising guests to arrive early or consider rideshare. DiFrancoโ€™s is a convenient exception, with an accessible free parking garage for diners.

Street parking is available near most Capitol Hill restaurants, though spots often fill quickly, especially at peak times. Potager, Jelly Cafe, and La Loma all note limited parking, advising guests to arrive early or consider rideshare. DiFrancoโ€™s is a convenient exception, with an accessible free parking garage for diners.
What are the best casual lunch restaurants in Capitol Hill Denver?

DiFrancoโ€™s offers a cozy Italian lunch with house-made pastas and gluten-free options, and City Oโ€™ City provides a relaxed atmosphere for vegetarian classics and sandwiches. Anise is another great option for lunch, with authentic Vietnamese dishes and speedy, friendly service.

DiFrancoโ€™s offers a cozy Italian lunch with house-made pastas and gluten-free options, and City Oโ€™ City provides a relaxed atmosphere for vegetarian classics and sandwiches. Anise is another great option for lunch, with authentic Vietnamese dishes and speedy, friendly service.
Brunch is serious business in Denver. Whether youโ€™re craving drag shows with bottomless mimosas, fluffy pancakes stacked high, or cozy neighborhood cafes, this city knows how to make weekends taste better.

Instead of wasting time on average eggs, weโ€™ve rounded up the best brunch restaurants in Denverโ€”spots locals actually love and visitors shouldnโ€™t miss. From Five Points to LoHi to Cherry Creek, these are the places worth setting an alarm for. Grab your crew, pick a spot, and make brunch the best part of your Denver weekend.

๐Ÿก Explore by Neighborhood

Pick your Denver neighborhood โ€“ Downtown, RiNo, Highlands, Wash Park โ€“ and explore its best bars, bites, and hidden gems.

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