Best of Denver

Best Restaurants in Downtown Denver

Where to eat, sip, and celebrate in downtown Denver, from iconic steakhouses to stylish urban bistros and lively local favorites.
Angela Hart
Last Updated:
September 16, 2025
Written by Angela Hart and Denver Curated Staff. Ranked by 10,000+ Denver Curated Subscribers.
Downtown Denver’s dining scene captures the city’s energy—think acclaimed steakhouses, polished hotel restaurants, and lively neighborhood grills within walking distance of theaters and landmarks. This guide to the best restaurants in Downtown Denver goes beyond the tourist traps, spotlighting diverse menus, inviting patios, and spots with genuine local flair. Expect memorable dishes like hand-cut steaks, green chile breakfast burritos, North Italian specialties, and creative comfort cuisine.

🍽️🌆 Quick Picks

🥩 Best Modern Steakhouse: Guard and Grace — Sleek, airy space for prime steaks and fine wine downtown.

🍝 Best Italian Gathering: Maggiano's Little Italy — Classic Italian favorites for groups and cozy date nights.

🎶 Best Live Music Scene: Appaloosa Grill — Eclectic American fare and live shows nightly on the 16th Street Mall.

Guard and Grace

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🍴 Contemporary

🏙️ Downtown

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📍 Local Insights

🍷 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.

🍽️ What to Try
Filet Mignon, Ribeye, Wagyu Steak, Gnocchi, Brussels Sprouts, Truffle Mac and Cheese, Tuna Sushi Roll, Potato Rolls, Sticky Toffee Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookies, Carrots, Mushrooms, Crispy Tuna Sushi, Prosciutto Flight
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Corinne Denver

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🍴 Contemporary

🏙️ Downtown

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📍 Local Insights

🥂 Reserve Brunch for Easter Specials: Corinne hosts delightful seasonal brunch buffets like Easter Sunday from 9 AM to 3:30 PM—reservations recommended.

🍽️ Ask for Server Recommendations: Servers like Payton and Vince provide excellent menu guidance and personalized service enhancing the dining experience.

🚗 Utilize Paid Parking Options: Multiple paid parking options including garages and valet make visits hassle-free in the busy Central Business District.

🐾 Dogs Welcome Outside: Guests can bring dogs to outdoor seating areas, making it a pet-friendly spot to relax and dine.

🍽️ What to Try
French Onion Soup, Bread Pudding, Crab Croquettes, Key Lime Pie, Wagyu Burger, Mushroom Bolognese, Kale Apple Salad, Tuna Bruschetta, Miso Halibut, Gruyère Omelette, Scottish Salmon, Diver Scallops, Parker House Rolls, Wild Mushroom Bolognese with Lamb Meatballs, Oatmeal
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Maggiano's Little Italy

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🍝 Italian

🏙️ Downtown

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📍 Local Insights

🍝 Family Style Portions: Come hungry and share dishes to fully experience the generous family-style servings.

🍷 Wine & Cocktails: The wine list and cocktails are highly recommended to complement your meal, especially for dinner occasions.

🚗 Parking Tips: Utilize the paid parking lot within Pavilions Mall or street parking near Welton St for easy access with larger vehicles.

🎶 Ambiance Touches: Enjoy live background music that adds a subtle romantic vibe to your dining experience.

🍽️ What to Try
Chicken Parmesan, Baked Ziti, Tiramisu, Stuffed Mushrooms, Cheese Ravioli, Mushroom Ravioli, Lobster Carbonara, Rigatoni, Spaghetti, Lasagna
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Appaloosa Grill

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🍔 American

🏙️ Downtown

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📍 Local Insights

🎶 Live Music Every Night: Enjoy a vibrant soundtrack to your meal with live performances nightly, often evoking Southern vibes.

🍽️ Happy Hour Specials: Daily from 3 PM to 6 PM, guests find great deals on both food and drinks—perfect for a casual afternoon stop.

👥 Great for Solo and Group Dining: The bar seating welcomes solo diners, and spacious tables accommodate groups comfortably.

💳 Automatic Gratuity Notice: A 20% tip is added automatically, so plan accordingly to avoid surprises.

🍽️ What to Try
Bison Burger, Elk Burger, Bison Steak, Lobster Roll, Bison Chili, Steak Frites, Baked Goat Cheese, Fried Avocado, Fried Broccoli, Lamb Chops, Bacon Wrapped Scallops, Shrimp with Homemade Ranch
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Stout Street Social

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🍔 American

🏙️ Downtown

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📍 Local Insights

🍸 Happy Hour Highlights: Enjoy discounted drinks and food Monday through Friday from 2 to 5 PM for the best deals and lively crowd.

🎶 Live Music Evenings: Plan visits on evenings with live music to enhance the vibrant atmosphere and social scene.

🚗 Parking Tips: Use nearby paid garages or street parking early to avoid the busy Convention Center rush.

🍽️ Reservation Advice: While walk-ins are welcomed, securing a reservation is recommended during peak brunch and dinner times to guarantee seating.

🍽️ What to Try
New England Clam Chowder, Sushi Rolls, Honey Glazed Salmon, Blackened Fish Tacos, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Prime Rib Sandwich, Korean Chicken Sandwich, Ahi Tuna Tower, Caesar Salad with Steak, Burgers, Fish and Chips, Lamb, Steak
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Panzano

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🍝 Italian

🏙️ Downtown

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📍 Local Insights

🍹 Extended Happy Hour: Enjoy early happy hours Monday through Saturday from 4–6 PM featuring great drinks and food specials.

🍳 Breakfast and Brunch Highlights: Breakfast is served daily with a brunch menu on weekends featuring elevated Italian classics.

🍝 Half Portions Available: For those wanting to sample multiple dishes, half portions are offered on select appetizers and entree items.

🎭 Dining Before Shows: Ideal for pre-show dinners at nearby theaters with prompt, attentive service to keep you on schedule.

🍽️ What to Try
Veal Bolognese, Wild Boar Bolognese, Bruschetta, Caesar Salad with Anchovy, Burrata, Risotto alle Carote, Pollo alla Milanese, Duck Confit, Lobster Arancini, Carbonara with Braised Rabbit Leg, Brussel Sprouts, Calamari, Tiramisù, Gnocchi, Ribeye
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Ruth's Chris Steak House

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🥩 Steakhouse

🏙️ Downtown

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📍 Local Insights

🥩 Ask for Mike or Tyler: These servers receive frequent praise for knowledgeable, attentive service that elevates your meal.

🍸 Try the Cucumber Martini: A standout cocktail recommended by locals, crafted with care by the bar staff.

🍰 Don’t Miss Crème Brûlée: This dessert is a crowd favorite and highly recommended to finish your meal.

🚗 Parking Tips: Paid parking lots are available but can be tricky; consider arriving early to secure a spot.

🍽️ What to Try
Filet Mignon, Porterhouse Steak, Ribeye Steak, Crab Cake, Lobster Bisque, Calamari, Creamed Spinach, Lobster Mac and Cheese, Caesar Salad, Key Lime Pie, Chocolate Cake, Crème Brûlée, Fried Shrimp, Martini
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EDGE Restaurant & Bar

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🍴 Contemporary

🏙️ Downtown

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📍 Local Insights

🥩 Signature Wagyu Hot Rock: A must-try dish, beloved for its marbled tenderness and interactive dining style.

🍸 Try the "After the Rain" Cocktail: A unique violet syrup and lemon juice concoction with gin, favored by locals.

🎶 Live Music & Cozy Vibes: Enjoy live music by the fireplace on select nights for a romantic, upscale atmosphere.

☀️ Breakfast and Brunch Perks: Brunch reservations are recommended; the Denver omelet and breakfast quesadilla come highly praised.

🍽️ What to Try
21-Day Dry-Aged Ribeye, Wagyu Hot Rock, Salmon, Lamb Chops, Tuna Tostada, Denver Omelet, Breakfast Quesadilla, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Sesame Mango Dessert, Mashed Potatoes, Shishito Peppers, Brussel Sprouts, Scallops, Octopus, Bison NY Strip, Burger
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Brooklyn's Finest Pizza

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🍕 Pizza

🏙️ Downtown

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📍 Local Insights

🍕 Pizza By The Slice: Ordering by the slice is a popular and convenient way to enjoy a variety of pizzas without committing to a whole pie.

⏰ Weekday Lunch Rush: The busiest times tend to be midday on weekdays, so visiting just before or after lunch hours can offer a quicker experience.

🍺 Drink Pairings: The menu includes beer, wine, and cocktails, making it a great stop for a casual drink with your pizza.

🚗 Parking Challenges: Paid street parking is available but usually difficult to find, so plan accordingly or consider public transit for downtown visits.

🍽️ What to Try
New York Style Pizza, Detroit Style Pizza, Cheese Pizza, Pepperoni Pizza, Vegetarian Pizza, Godfather Pizza, Meatball Calzone, Garlic Knots, Cheesy Bread, Salads, Stromboli
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Sam's No. 3

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🍔 American

🏙️ Downtown

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📍 Local Insights

🌯 Must-Try Breakfast Burritos: Regulars highly recommend the breakfast burritos topped with their famous green chili sauce.

🍹 Happy Hour Deals: Enjoy the bar offerings with happy hour from 2–6 PM Wednesday through Saturday for great cocktails and beer.

🕰 Peak Mornings: Arrive early on weekends before 9 AM to avoid long waits and enjoy natural morning light in the cozy diner setting.

☕ Coffee Lovers' Spot: Don’t miss their excellent coffee, perfect for kickstarting your day or a midday pick-me-up.

🍽️ What to Try
Breakfast Burrito, Green Chili, Bloody Mary, Kitchen Sink, Chile Relleno, Gyro, Buffalo Burger, Chili Burger, Country Fried Steak Skillet
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Downtown Denver’s restaurant landscape brings together comfort, creativity, and innovative flavors, all in a walkable, energetic setting. Save this guide for your next night out, weekend brunch, or business lunch downtown—sharing or bookmarking helps others discover these local gems, too. For even more inspiration, check out our full restaurant directory and browse related dining guides tailored to your next Denver adventure.
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Downtown Denver’s restaurant landscape brings together comfort, creativity, and innovative flavors, all in a walkable, energetic setting. Save this guide for your next night out, weekend brunch, or business lunch downtown—sharing or bookmarking helps others discover these local gems, too. For even more inspiration, check out our full restaurant directory and browse related dining guides tailored to your next Denver adventure.
No items found.
Downtown Denver’s restaurant landscape brings together comfort, creativity, and innovative flavors, all in a walkable, energetic setting. Save this guide for your next night out, weekend brunch, or business lunch downtown—sharing or bookmarking helps others discover these local gems, too. For even more inspiration, check out our full restaurant directory and browse related dining guides tailored to your next Denver adventure.

FAQs

What are the best restaurants in Downtown Denver for a memorable dinner?
Guard and Grace stands out for its modern steakhouse ambiance, expertly prepared steaks, and curated wine list—perfect for upscale dinners. Panzano impresses with creative northern Italian fare and attentive service ideal for both date nights and business occasions. Both offer polished, inviting atmospheres that define dining in downtown Denver.

Guard and Grace stands out for its modern steakhouse ambiance, expertly prepared steaks, and curated wine list—perfect for upscale dinners. Panzano impresses with creative northern Italian fare and attentive service ideal for both date nights and business occasions. Both offer polished, inviting atmospheres that define dining in downtown Denver.

Are there family-friendly restaurants in Downtown Denver?

Yes, several downtown spots welcome families. Sam's No. 3 is a classic local diner known for big portions, a broad menu, and a kids’ menu that makes it popular with all ages. Maggiano's Little Italy also excels at hosting groups with family-style Italian dishes and a cozy setting that feels both festive and relaxed.

Yes, several downtown spots welcome families. Sam's No. 3 is a classic local diner known for big portions, a broad menu, and a kids’ menu that makes it popular with all ages. Maggiano's Little Italy also excels at hosting groups with family-style Italian dishes and a cozy setting that feels both festive and relaxed.
Where can I find great happy hour deals in Downtown Denver?

Stout Street Social is a top pick for happy hour, thanks to its global-inspired menu, lively atmosphere, and weekday food and drink specials. Appaloosa Grill also offers daily happy hour deals plus live music, making it a great stop before an evening out on the 16th Street Mall.

Stout Street Social is a top pick for happy hour, thanks to its global-inspired menu, lively atmosphere, and weekday food and drink specials. Appaloosa Grill also offers daily happy hour deals plus live music, making it a great stop before an evening out on the 16th Street Mall.
Which downtown Denver restaurants are ideal for date night?

Corinne Denver delivers a chic yet approachable setting with standout cocktails and New American dishes—great for romantic dinners. For an elegant night, EDGE Restaurant & Bar inside the Four Seasons provides refined steak, a cozy fireplace, and live music, creating a memorable date experience in the city center.

Corinne Denver delivers a chic yet approachable setting with standout cocktails and New American dishes—great for romantic dinners. For an elegant night, EDGE Restaurant & Bar inside the Four Seasons provides refined steak, a cozy fireplace, and live music, creating a memorable date experience in the city center.
Are there good vegetarian or healthy options at downtown Denver restaurants?

Corinne Denver features vegetarian-friendly and healthy dishes, including salads and creative mains. Panzano is another leader, offering sustainable northern Italian cuisine with several plant-forward appetizers, pastas, and entrees—perfect for diners seeking lighter or vegetarian meals downtown.

Corinne Denver features vegetarian-friendly and healthy dishes, including salads and creative mains. Panzano is another leader, offering sustainable northern Italian cuisine with several plant-forward appetizers, pastas, and entrees—perfect for diners seeking lighter or vegetarian meals downtown.
Do any downtown Denver restaurants offer live music?

Appaloosa Grill is beloved for nightly live music performances paired with Colorado comfort fare and cocktails—a staple for locals and visitors alike. EDGE Restaurant & Bar also hosts live music on select nights, pairing upscale dining with a vibrant urban soundtrack right in the heart of downtown.

Appaloosa Grill is beloved for nightly live music performances paired with Colorado comfort fare and cocktails—a staple for locals and visitors alike. EDGE Restaurant & Bar also hosts live music on select nights, pairing upscale dining with a vibrant urban soundtrack right in the heart of downtown.
Brunch is serious business in Denver. Whether you’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, we’ve rounded up the best brunch restaurants in Denver—spots locals actually love and visitors shouldn’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.

🏡 Explore by Neighborhood

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

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